Month: January 2019

Prince Albert of Monaco described the Principality of Monaco as a “safe haven in many respects” in his short New Year’s Eve address.

He talked about “the tensions present everywhere in the world about many subjects” as well as the importance of seeking new perspectives.

The Prince suggest we think about acts of devotion and solidarity that bring people and countries together.

He also promoted the concept of inter-generational integration, as well as suggesting young people from Monaco should go out and explore the world.

After reflecting on those who are less fortunate, he concluded his speech by wishing a Happy New Year to the Monégasque people. “On behalf of my family, I send you our warmest wishes for 2019. Happy New Year!”

The palace had to change plans at the last minute for the traditional children’s Christmas party. Heavy rains forced the organisers to move into the throne room, where more than 650 children aged between 5 and 12 met ‘Santa’.

Prince Albert hosted the event with his nephew Louis Ducruet – a duty he relishes since he took over the 60-year-old annual event from his mother, Princess Grace.

The first party was set up to introduce Princess Grace to the children of Monaco. Guests were entertained by a reel of Disney cartoons before each received a gift from a member of the royal family.

Each year, children have enjoyed a range of entertainers – stage magicians, a visit from Santa, circus performers and more.

Under the patronage of HSH Prince Albert, the Lions Club of Monaco presented to the Principality the 6th International Piano Competition for four hands on December 15th, 2018. Pianists competed for the prestigious Bank Edmond de Rothschild Prize.

The event was hosted by the Hermitage in Monte Carlo. The winners were pianists who had not routinely performed together competitively in four hands competitions.

The four hands piano competition was accompanied by the Monte Carlo Solistes Orchestra guided by Jean Louis Dedieu.

Vlad Ferrari performed a composition at the opening of the evening.

The talented Polish pair, Anna Wielgus and Grzegorz Nowak, were selected as winners, over an accomplished Japanese duo – Keiko Kawabata and Ryosuke Yanase.

The Christmas Ball in aid of the Princess Charlene Foundation raised €52,000 for the charity.

The ball took place in the Belle Époque Hall at Hermitage Hotel on 15th December.

The Foundation’s aim is to teach children about the dangers of water and to prevent drowning. More than half of drownings around the world are people under the age of 25, according to the World Health Organization.

This is the third year that the ball, organised by Sandrine Knoell-Garbagnati in its thirteenth year, has benefitted the Foundation.