Sparks were flying at the launch party of the newest hotel, Le Meridien Cyberport. The party last Thursday night drew a lot of attention, especially when the sound of a heavy-duty power tool overtook the murmurings of Hong Kong society.
Grindergirl, made famous by her appearances on the The Late Show with David Letterman, fired off four metres of sparks from her stainless steel body costume over the city's glitterati. One guest said that she was like a Powerpuff girl 'all grown up'. Another said 'I'd like to make friction with her.'
Her real name is Kiva Kahl, and her skills have made her one of the most revered vaudeville artists in the industry. She is also known as 'Combustible Kiva', and besides letting sparks rip, she also specialises in fire-eating, snake charming, walking on glass and the bull whip.
The New Yorker spent three days in Hong Kong, taking in sights like The Peak and Stanley. 'I love Hong Kong, it's great,' she said. 'It was really fun, fun, fun! The night was spectacular.'