The Westin Dubai opens new entertainment-dining venue

Papillon is the brainchild of musician Layla Kardan and award-winning choreographer Denise Faye

Layla Kardan has announced the launch of her first venue, Papillon, at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina.

The performance and dining experience, occupying the space previously taken by Asia de Cuba, has been co-created with choreographer and dancer Denise Faye and famed architect and interior designer Roham Shamkeh known for his work with brands such as Roberto Cavalli and Versace. Roham is responsible for the decor, described as “elegant yet edgy”.

Papillon will offer guests an elevated dining experience with menus by chef Tiger, who joins the company from the two-Michelin-starred Joel Robuchon in Taipei. Expect Mediterranean flavours in both degustation and la carte menus served throughout performances.

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Speaking about the launch, creator Layla Kardan said: “I dreamt of creating a space like this since I was a little girl. My childhood visions and aspirations have come to life through the hard work and efforts of an extraordinary team of professionals and the support and trust of The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Spa.

Having Denise Faye at the helm of this project has been the greatest blessing. I have always been a fan of her incredible work and performances in Chicago and Burlesque and now I get to work alongside her, which is also a dream come true.”

Kardan added: “When we initially started talking about this project there were limited dinner-and-show concepts available in town. Seeing so many sprout up makes me very happy. I feel there’s more of an appetite for a theatrical night out, and as an artist, I feel this is healthy for the industry.”