A charming gala evening took place at the Lyrical Theatre of the Central Bank of Paraguay (BCP) in Asunción. The ceremony was organised on 21 October 2025 to commemorate and celebrate the 15 years of Jesuits Foundation in Paraguay. Named “Night Waltzes – Yesterday And Today,” the gala featured a great concert brought by Maestro Luis Szarán and Ballet Director and Choreographer Miguel Bonnin. The Asunción Times joined the intimate evening.
A delightful show
A blend of classical plays were presented by the Asunción Symphony Orchestra (OSCA), such as Tchaikovsky’s “Flowers’s Waltz” and “Swan Lake.” More modern ones were also played, like “Married Life” and “Stuff We Did.” Both songs were featured in Pixar’s animated film “UP”; “Le Festin” from “Ratatouille.” Movie clips were presented in the background.
The performance by singers Yennifer Gutiérrez, Janet Armoa and Jorge Servián also tinged the night with emotion. Some of the performances also displayed a captivating ballet, which together, brought the magic of cinema to life.
By the end of the show, the iconic “Noche de Vals” (Waltz’s Night) was performed. The public was invited to join the performers to dance with them. The Jesuits Foundation also offered prizes to the attendees. One of the winners, Norma, won a harp replica.
What is the Jesuits Foundation?
The Jesuits Foundation was founded by Father Carlos Canillas in 2009. The mission is to collaborate with Jesuits in Paraguay seeking their endurance whilst generating resources, especially economic support. The aim is also to unite people and institutions committed to social reality, according to Christian values. Currently it has 80 members and they expect to increase that number, in order to reach more people with the foundation.
Father Canillas, who gave a very thoughtful and heartfelt speech at the event, emphasised the help provided by the foundation. For example, the Jesuits Foundation donated desks to local St. Miguel School of “Bañado Sur.” This area of Asunción is a riverside community with educational and technological needs, that the foundation provided. Additionally, inspired by the Jesuits mission, they had the “Let’s Multiply The Bread Programme” during the pandemic.
Father Carlos Canillas also mentioned the help to the Colonia Teko Pyahu “New Life Community.” The Colony is located 73 kilometres from Asunción. The Jesuits Foundation provided them a new oil can, that brings people the possibility to thrive. For more information, visit the Jesuits Foundation website.
