IN the shadow of the Crowne Plaza's frenetic, pulsing V Bar sits a new oasis of cool called MoonDance. And, to paraphrase the lyrics from Van Morrison's song Moon Dance, any night is a marvelous night for a dance --- or just a drink and conversation --- at MoonDance.

Recently opened by Canadian lawyer Gary Teeling and his Chinese wife, Xia Yanni, MoonDance is the culmination of a five-month dream for the couple. Teeling, who originally came to Shenzhen on business where he now also consults on international law for the firm of Liu and Wang, said it was inspired by his wife¡¯s background as a dancer in the entertainment industry.

"I ended up in Shenzhen and met Yanni and this opportunity came up. We think it's a marvelous opportunity. Yanni actually runs MoonDance. I just sit and observe. She's from the performance and entertainment industry so we think it's a natural," said Teeling.

Located on Crowne Plaza's west-side shopping plaza, MoonDance actually feels like two unique atmospheres. Inside is cool neon blue-hued intimate dance, lounge and bar area where patrons can choose from among 200 beverages ranging from cocktails and beer to coffee and juices while enjoying the dance music and blues featured by MoonDance's DJs. Outside rests a peaceful garden setting with lighted trees, candle-lit tables and the softer sounds of smooth jazz and classical pop.

"It was the setting that made us decide to open the bar," said Teeling. "When we were talking to the owners about leasing it we told them that we would open a little bar if we could have the garden area, too. So we have what I call the 'party room' and then outside we have a romantic, soothing and pleasant place to sit with friends or take a date. It's a very romantic and friendly atmosphere."

If you're there on a Saturday or Sunday night, it's also a great place from which to sit and watch the weekend Window of the World fireworks display.

Adding to the ambience is the attentive staff. In addition to Yanni and Teeling's personal touch, there's assistant manager Tina Jun whose first-rate customer care skills ensure all runs smoothly, and Michael the head bartender who, Teeling said, "is constantly creating new drinks just for our bar." A recent foray found two winners: the fiery Li Hai shooter and the smooth Fa Feng Liao cocktail.

MoonDance also features light snacks, such as sweet popcorn, and shortly will be sealing a deal for heavier catered fare such as pizza, barbecue and chicken.

Though only opened a few weeks ago, MoonDance is already drawing a crowd of regulars and hotel patrons alike.

"Our crowd is made up of foreigners in the area and an equal number of Shenzheners," said Teeling. "It all feels like family. We really like to emphasize that feeling with our staff, because we are a family business and we want to extend that feeling to our customers."

 
Editor: Wings