2 mins
TAPESTRY
THE RETURN OF THE ALTERNATIVE HAIR SHOW TO SALON INTERNATIONAL WAS AN EVENT NOT TO BE MISSED
On Sunday 15 October, the world’s most inspiring hair artists took to the stage in one spectacular show. The Alternative Hair Show (AHS) returned for its 41st year at the ICC Capital Suite in ExCeL London at Salon International. This year's theme was ‘Tapestry’, and the event also hosted the International Visionary Award finals.
Long-time AHS supporter, Linda Evans, was first to arrive on stage before founder of the AHS, Tony Rizzo, and President of AHS, Anthony Mascolo, emerged to host the show. Each AHS Artist was presented with a trophy and acknowledgement of their hard work. Next came the announcement of hairdressing legend, Trevor Sorbie MBE, as the new Worldwide Honorary Patron of the AHS. Tony Rizzo commented: “We think it is fitting that the man who Vidal Sassoon called the ‘best hairdresser’ is now the new worldwide patron.”
Trevor was given a one-of-akind trophy and shared a heartfelt speech with the crowd. He began by saying: “What an honour for me to follow in the footsteps of my hairdressing hero, Vidal Sassoon. When I started in hairdressing, I had no idea of the future of my life. In fact, at one point I gave up hairdressing because I thought I was no good. I was so wrong.”
Trevor went on to talk about Tony’s special affinity for the Blood Cancer charity 'Fighting Leukaemia' and how important the Alternative Hair Show is when it comes to its annual fundraising. He said: “Tony lost his son to leukaemia, and I can’t think of anything worse. But Tony’s determination and passion to want to help others who are in a similar situation through a charity is one of the most commendable things a human being can do. Tony deserves his own medal because he is a man of action.”
The shown opened with the International Visionary Awards, and all 51 finalists took to the stage with their models before the winners were announced. You can see a list of the finalists and winners at hji. co.uk/everything-that-happenedat-the-alternative-hair-show-2023.
Next up were the stage shows themselves. Global artistic teams from Europe to Asia, showcased beautiful, intricate and totally inspired work.
Tony Rizzo, Anthony Mascolo and Trevor Sorbie MBE closed the show presenting a cheque to demonstrate that this year's show had raised a total of £121,000. The night was testament to how art and charity can support one another.