It’s sure to be a fabulous affair. This Saturday, ShanghaiLGBT presents the Pink Tie Affair at the Barbie Café, an end of year party that will raise funds for the China Breast Cancer Foundation. TALK spoke with Linda Li, one of its organizers, to get the lowdown on this weekend’s bash.

How did the event come about?
We recently heard of someone who was diagnosed with breast cancer and realized that there is a need for breast cancer awareness. The Pink Tie Affair is a yearly charity ball and since the pink ribbon symbolizes breast cancer awareness, we thought it would make sense to have the party to benefit the cause. ShanghaiLGBT, in association with Shanghai United Family Hospital and Barbie Shanghai is organizing this event for the benefit of the China Breast Cancer Foundation.

So what can we expect at the party?
We have dance performances, a special DJ, and Ken and Barbie of the year awards. Two years ago, we started with the ShanghaiLGBT King and Queen of the year through extensive nominations and voting, and we thought it would be nice if we could carry on the 'tradition'. Instead of king and queen, we will call it Ken and Barbie of the year. Last year's winners will be passing their 'crowns' to the new winners.

What’s the dress code for the Pink Tie Affair?
Formal, with one item in pink, so come in your tuxedos and gowns.

Who is invited to the event, and how many people are you expecting?
Everybody is invited and we are hoping to see more than 200 people.

Can you tell us something about ShanghaiLGBT’s choice to support the China Breast Cancer Foundation?
ShanghaiLGBT supports charities. For last year's Pink Tie Affair and this year's Shanghai Pride, we supported the Chi Heng Foundation which helps orphans who have AIDS. This year we decided on the China Breast Cancer Foundation. Also, the Pink Tie Affair uses the same color as the pink ribbon, which is the symbol for breast cancer awareness.

What does this event mean to the LGBT community?
The LGBT community is not only about parties and having fun. With this event we want to raise the issue as citizens in a bigger global community --  sometimes we need to stop and think, [and know] that we all can help and change the world as long we keep doing it. And it doesn't matter if you are Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Transgender, straight (or confused).    

RMB 150, includes open bar. Saturday 5 December, 9pm-onwards. Barbie Café, 6/F, 550 Huaihai Zhong Lu, near Maoming Nan Lu.