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Escriba makes one sweet Asian debut

SINGAPORE — The world of confections has always been a wonderland of mouth-watering creations that is limited only by one’s imagination.

Christian Escriba (left) and 
Patricia Schmidt share more than a love for innovative pastry.

Christian Escriba (left) and
Patricia Schmidt share more than a love for innovative pastry.

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SINGAPORE — The world of confections has always been a wonderland of mouth-watering creations that is limited only by one’s imagination.

At least, that’s what renowned Catalan pastry chef Christian Escriba, of the historic family-owned pastry boutique Pasteleria Escriba in Barcelona, asserts.

Driven by this grandiose notion, the fourth-generation master pastry chef’s first-of-its-kind “experiential” showcase of confectionery — dubbed a “dazzling theatrical showcase” — might surprise even the most discerning. Created together with his wife and fellow pastry chef Patricia Schmidt, Escriba’s Fantasia may be the first time anyone has attempted to combine theatrical performances with a confectionery show.

Imagine an exhibition hall filled with more than 25 innovative confectionery masterpieces, spread across eight themed pavilions, one of which will boast the 8.5m-tall Callebaut Falls, the team’s Guinness World Record attempt to create the world’s tallest chocolate fountain.

“There are plenty of unique experiences on offer,” Escriba said. “You’ll get to see life-sized animals, such as an elephant, a giraffe, a crocodile, a zebra, an hippopotamus, a Bengal tiger, a monkey and a gorilla, all made out of Callebaut chocolate, fondant, meringue and other delicious confectionery.”

Another pavilion will feature a 5m-tall wedding cake, together with a performance by renowned European theatre company Comediants.

“Usually, in pastry shows or exhibitions, a promoter gets a venue and breaks it down in different areas and then rents them to different companies,” Escriba explained. “Here, we’re taking a big risk with a revolutionary idea — only one brand is exhibiting its concept and products in a massive venue with many different sponsors.”

The show’s main objective is to present the world of Escriba in a fun and different way. That includes whimsical creations such as the patisserie’s famous candy rings and a special collection of chocolate shoes which will be sold on site.

“And for the first time ever, we’ve brought Patricia Schmidt’s special collection of her best sugar flowers. These are also sold at our stores and guests will be able to watch a demo of how sugar flowers and candy rings are actually made,” he said.

The sweet-toothed will no doubt be satiated. Guests will be able to enjoy a selection of eleven complimentary treats, which include the brand’s famous Chocolate Red Lips, Crema Catalana (in a golden egg), Caramelised Strawberries, an assortment of “croissants” and shots of Callebaut chocolate, with the option to purchase more at the venue.

The event’s Singapore debut is a strategic one, as the company has confirmed plans to set up an international base on the island. Escriba Asia in Singapore will also mark the family’s first international foray outside of Spain with a full operational set-up.

“Singapore is the stage for the premiere of Escriba Asia — we are preparing to roll out the brand through its rich heritage, incredible events and a world-class academy, across the region ... Fantasia by Escriba will be a showcase of what we can do, and what we will bring to the rest of Asia,” said Paul Wakefield, Executive Chairman, Escriba Asia. He added that Singapore makes the most sense as the regional headquarters for Escriba Asia. “This is an ultra-modern, developed city that serves as a hub to Asia and the world.”

Also a first is the Escriba Academy in Singapore, which is making its Asian debut, by giving those with a passion for pastry the chance to learn from the world’s top toques.

“We have a 108-year heritage at Escriba and over 2,500 references for our students to benefit from, as well as traditions and techniques that you cannot find anywhere else,” Wakefield continued.

“Escriba Academy Singapore will also design very specific programmes to allow students to train both in Singapore and in Barcelona ... We chose Singapore as the first location for the Escriba Academy because of its position as a culinary capital of the world.

“As the academy grows, we intend to open more locations across Asia, meeting the region’s ever-growing demand for high-quality culinary institutions.”

Fantasia by Escriba will run from tomorrow till Sunday at Marina Bay Sands Convention and Exhibition Centre, Halls D & E. Tickets are priced at S$128 per adult (alcoholic drinks are available for an additional S$30) and S$88 (per child). Family deals (for two adults and two children) are priced at S$388. For details, visit http://www.fantasiabyescriba.com.

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