CNMI officials are hoping that SandCastle’s opening on Saturday would help revive the local tourism industry.
Mark Baldyga, chairman of Baldyga Group International— SandCastle’s owner—said he had been to Tokyo and Seoul to promote the new Las Vegas style dinner-theater on Saipan with the help of the Marianas Visitors Authority.
Baldyga said the trips were encouraging and promising, especially in Seoul.
Attorney General Robert T. Torres said SandCastle is an important attraction that would open more opportunities for the industry.
“From an economic standpoint, SandCastle’s entry is another important part of the diversification of the tourism industry to complement the activities of tourists here,” Torres said.
Mustafa Issa, Hyatt Regency Guam’s general manager, said Hyatt will continue to support and promote SandCastle’s show among its guests and other members of the Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands.
Hyatt Saipan’s general manager, Michael Von Siedenthal, praised Baldyga for investing on Saipan. “We’re very happy to have SandCastle,” Von Siedenthal said.
Baldyga expressed hope that SandCastle Saipan’s opening would lead to more future expansions.
“I believe in the region,” he said. “This is our first ever expansion and hopefully not the last. We want to become part of the community,” Baldyga told the crowd.
Close to 400 people from all walks of life watched SandCastle’s grand opening.
The crowd was served a special dinner prepared by the Hyatt’s chefs.
A group of Las Vegas show girls was the show’s opening act. Their choreographer, Chris Childers, is pop singer Madonna’s former dancer.
The rest of the show included Anthony Reed, an illusionist; Kip Reynolds, a comedian; and Tumon, a 500-pound Bengal Tiger.
