(Posted Nov. 29, 2017)
The Heritage Commission will a New Year’s Eve Grand Ball at South Charleston’s town hall and opera house, 38 S. Chillicothe St. Reservations may be made now; the event runs from 8:30 p.m. to midnight on Dec. 31.
Dancers will step back in time at this Civil War-era themed ball. Costumes of the time period are encouraged, but not required. Modern ladies’ formalwear and men’s suits are acceptable. Civil War military re-enactors are asked to refrain from wearing hobnail boots.
Guests will experience the grace and beauty of a winter’s social event of the mid-1800s by dancing period waltzes, polkas, and reels, all called and instructed by dance master Jim Ruley. Previous dance experience is not necessary to join in the fun. Deborah Spencer and Rob Turner will play period music for the dance. Additionally, Turner will perform special musical entertainment on the flute during breaks.
Throughout the ball, guests can enjoy hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and drinks served in the town hall community room. Revelers will ring in the New Year at midnight with a toast and the singing of “Auld Lang Syne.”
Emily’s Photography of Springfield will take portraits of guests. A silent auction featuring donated goods will benefit the Heritage Commission.
Tickets prices remain unchanged since the first ball in 2006. Reservations made by Dec. 25 are $25 per person or $45 per couple. After Dec. 25, the cost is $30 per person. Tickets may be purchased with cash, check or credit by calling Charleston Pharmacy, (937) 462-8331, or visiting www.eventbrite.com (search for “New Year’s Eve Grand Ball”). A limited number of tickets will available for purchase at the door. The event is family-friendly. Children younger than 10 years old are admitted free of charge.
All proceeds go toward the upkeep of the non-profit Heritage Commission’s three historic properties in South Charleston. For additional information, call Julia Sutherly, (937) 360-5527), or Kay Ruley, (937) 462-7332). Online, visit heritagecommission.com or the New Year’s Eve Grand Ball Facebook page.
