The grand opening ceremony was held at The Diaoyutai Boutique Chengdu in the presence of key executives from Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality and representatives of the owner. Foreign diplomats based in Chengdu and social celebrities also attended the ceremony.
The ceremony kicked off with a series of dramatic Sichuan opera performances, followed by the official ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the grand opening of The Diaoyutai Boutique Chengdu. In attendance was the Director General of Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, Ambassador Zhang Junsai, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MGM Resorts International Mr. James J. Murren, Mr. William Joseph Hornbuckle, President of MGM Resorts International, William M. Scott IV, the Executive Director and General Manager of Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality, as well as the representative of the owner.
The management team of MGM also presented The Diaoyutai Boutique Chengdu's General Manager with a Lion 'Made in China', painted plastic resin sculpture created by Chinese artist Ni Youyu, to form part of the hotel's permanent art collection. The artwork was specially commissioned for the Lion Biennale, an exhibition celebrating the 50-year anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France. With the form of a golden lion and a face reminiscent of a panda, the sculpture perfectly captures the brand spirit of The Diaoyutai Boutique Chengdu: 'a unique marriage' of Eastern and Western cultures. The sculpture designed by the legendary French designer Mr. Bruno Moinard was selected because it mirrors the famous signature marquee lion of MGM and pays homage to the home of the giant panda.
Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, guests enjoyed a celebration dinner that was elaborately prepared by a team of Diaoyutai State Guesthouse chefs who have served thousands of distinguished guests from all over the world. These master chefs now create the signature menus for The Diaoyutai Boutique Chengdu's signature Royal Court Restaurant. The banquet menu was composed of cold and hot dishes from across China and showcased various culinary skills and techniques.
Following dinner guests were ushered at Fangfei Garden where they enjoyed a delightful after party that included graceful performances by a famous local girl band. The evening was concluded with a charity auction -- with all proceeds of the items sold donated to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
The grand opening of The Diaoyutai Boutique Chengdu marks the first Diaoyutai-branded hotel under Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality. The hotel will succeed Diaoyutai brand's signatures, which are providing guests the exquisite state banquet-level F&B, elegant and meticulous services, picturesque garden and rich cultural heritage. The superb and elegant design of the hotel is customized with modern elements incorporated. Its understated sophistication is perfectly combined with Chengdu's unique local touch. The Diaoyutai Boutique Chengdu is committed to offering guests unparalleled comfort and extravagant enjoyment through its exclusive Chinese hospitality.
About Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality, Ltd.
Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality is a joint venture between Diaoyutai State Guesthouse of China, the highest standard service venue for hosting foreign heads of state, and MGM Resorts International, the top global luxury hotel group. The company is committed to combining the brand advantages of its parent companies to create unique luxury hotels, residences, retail and entertainment experiences.
About The Diaoyutai Boutique Chengdu
The Diaoyutai Boutique Chengdu is conveniently located on Kuanzhai Alley, just 35 minutes from the Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. Designed by legendary French designer Bruno Moinard, the hotel features 45 unique rooms and suites. Fine dining is headlined by the Royal Court and State Banquet restaurants - serving Diaoyutai's famous state level cuisine, and KZ Restaurant & Grill - featuring pan-Asian cuisine. The Hotel's refined facilities include the Diaoyutai Club, the Fangfei Garden Lobby Lounge, the KZ Patisserie and a luxurious retail boutique.