Emerald Ball 1993-2000

The inaugural Emerald Ball, held on March 12, 1993 at the Capitol Tokyu Hotel, was graced with the presence of Their Imperial Highnesses Prince and Princess Akishino (the brother and sister-in-law of Japan's Crown Prince).

The following year Their Imperial Highnesses Prince and Princess Takamado were the guests of honor and became among our most ardent supporters. The recent passing of His Imperial Highness Prince Takamado has brought immense sadness to the Irish community in Japan and to The Ireland Fund of Japan in particular.

In addition to members of Japan's Imperial Family, other guests who have joined us include ambassadors Walter and Joan Mondale of the US and Antonio and Beatrice Oyalzabal of Spain, as well as ambassadors from all over the globe. Irish Minister of State, Joe Jacob and his wife Patti, have also been guests of honour.

Photo Index 1 Satnum Sharkey, wife of Irish Ambassador to Japan, James Sharkey (now ambassador to Russia), His Imperial Highness Prince Akishino (brother of the Crown Prince and younger son of the Emperor, his wife Her Imperial Highness Princess Kiko and Phil Coulter. 2 Princess Kiko dances with Phil Coulter 3 "Top Table Guests" Emerald Ball 1999    front row (l-r) : Minister Joe Jacob, Mrs. Teresa Ryan, Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado, H.E. Declan O'Donovan, Ambassador to Ireland    back row (l-r) : Mr. Peter Ryan, Second Secretary, Embassy of Ireland, Mrs Martin Vukovich, His Imperial Highness Prince Takamado, Mrs. Patti Jacob, H.E. Martin Vucovich, Ambassador to Austria, Ms. Mary Dunning