Oskar Peralta’s 80th birthday celebration unfolded as a cinematic tapestry, with a plethora of close friends donning the allure of their beloved Hollywood icons.
Peri Diaz, the orchestrator of this event and a protégé mentored by Oskar himself into an accomplished fashion designer, masterminded an evening adorned with wholesome entertainment, expertly hosted by renowned fashion director Raymond Villanueva.
The stage was transformed into a realm of stardom as participants graced the catwalk, inspired by the essence of Hollywood glamour. Notable among them were Mike de la Rosa embodying Kris Kristofferson, Albert Gonzales Fontanilla channeling Madonna, Lito Perez as Ginger Rogers, Melba Arrivas portraying Greta Garbo, Abby San Diego evoking Grace Kelly, Jontie Martinez dressed as Marilyn Monroe, Nicky Martinez came as Julia Roberts and Isabel Tique capturing the spirit of Audrey Hepburn. Additionally, the couture couple, Ricky Toledo and Chito Vijandre, made a stunning entrance adorned in spectacular outfits and complemented by marvelous makeup.
Gerry Sunga’s portrayal of Shirley Bassey and Pando’s interpretation of Barbra Streisand went beyond simple mimicry, earning them a resounding applause symphony. In a fleeting yet radiant moment, the iconic ‘70s gay club, Jade Vine, emerged from the depths of memory. It was a night on Oskar Peralta’s birthday when the pioneering figures of invention graced the stage, adorned in full drag, reviving the spirit of that legendary era.
A crescendo of emotion peaked during an audio-visual opus, an homage to Oskar’s life, curated by George Yano. Another cinematic moment unfolded — a poignant tribute to departed couturiers, weaving threads of remembrance.
In a poignant interlude, Boy Lizaso, a luminary in his own right, took center stage to articulate a heartfelt tribute, underscoring Oskar’s indelible mark on the Philippine fashion world. The crowning jewel in this accolade was Oskar being the first Filipino fashion designer to be featured in the 1979 Vogue Book spring and summer edition, an accolade that draped his career in an added sheen of distinction.
Zardo Austria, the maestro of fashion and arts, embellished the celebration with poetic cadence, weaving verses that danced in harmony with the spirit of the evening. Singer Raymond Gorospe serenaded the gathering with a medley of Martin Nievera’s opulent melodies.
As the curtain fell, trophies became tokens of gratitude, bestowed upon the artisans who wove the success of the evening — from gastronomic alchemy to aesthetic orchestration, best in costumes and fabulous performances every nuance in between.
This celebration, a confluence of nostalgia, artistic flair and sincere tributes, etched indelible memories within the hallowed walls of Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant in the heart of Intramuros, Manila.