THE lawns of Hope Gardens, St Andrew, were transformed into a British-inspired theme for Smirnoff’s When The World Swaps Nights on Saturday.

Part of Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project, the parties are aimed at 50 countries discovering, sharing and swapping their nightlife experiences. And, from all indications, last Saturday’s efforts were a success.

Vodka lovers sipped Smirnoff drink mixes and ‘Jamaica Sunrise’ cocktail against an extravagantly decorated set accompanied with the ‘Dukes’ and ‘Queen’ overseeing the event.

The global beats for the evening were provided by DJs Max Glaser, Engine Room and Jamaica’s Sanjay of Coppershot Disco much to the delight of the hundreds patrons on hand.

The Smirnoff Dancers not only entertained, but also instructed patrons who were unfamiliar with the latest local and international dance moves.

“Some experiences are completely unforgettable and remarkable,” Opal Simms, a resident of London, told the Observer. “And this here is one of them that I will be talking about for years to come.”

The Material Girl, Madonna, also made a “special appearance”.

The world’s top-selling female recording artiste, was ‘beamed’ to the venue from New York announcing the winner of her international search for a dancer for her upcoming tour. Tennessee resident ‘Lil Buck’ came out tops. Several of Jamaica’s top dancers also entered the competition.

“The Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project has uncovered amazing dance talent from all over the world, but Lil Buck was the best of all,” Madonna said.

Smirnoff’s brand manager Safia Cooper was upbeat about the event’s staging.

“On a night when so many countries swapped nightlife, we managed to pull off the best of Britain with ease. Our consumers came out to be a part of this once in a lifetime moment and they enjoyed every minute,” she said. “Tonight was another amazing event that surpassed our expectations.”

— Simone Morgan