Wonderland Ball

When:
Saturday, Sep 14, 2024 7:00p -
10:00p

Where:
Andover Town Hall
20 Main Street
Andover, MA 01810

EventScheduled OfflineEventAttendanceMode

Admission:
$45

Hosted by:
...
footwork_and_frolick The Footwork and Frolick Society

Categories:
Date Idea, Good for Groups, History, Party

Event website:
https://www.footworkandfrolick.org/upcoming-events/wonderland-ball

Lewis Carroll’s beloved novels Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (1865) and Through the Looking Glass (1871) introduced mid-19th century readers throughout Europe and America to a whimsical world of quadrilling lobsters, advancing turtles, and singing gryphons. On Saturday September 14th we will bring the spirit of the Lobster Quadrille to Andover - though perhaps not the lobsters themselves. Historical costume or costumes inspired by Carroll’s novels will be admired but not are not required - wear whatever makes you feel elegant and ready to appear before her majesty the Queen of Hearts.

Dances will be taught throughout the evening, but those looking for additional practice can join us early for an afternoon workshop. Beginners welcome!


Schedule of Events

3:30-5:00 Workshop

6:30 Doors Open

7:00-10:00 Ball


Tickets

$35 - students (graduated in last 5 years)

$45 - standard ticket

$65 - supporter (includes donation to our nonprofit)


What will the dancing be like?

Dancing will include a mix of contra dances, quadrilles, and round dances (often called “couple dances”). Contra dances and quadrilles are done by many couples together arranged in long lines, squares, or circles around the ballroom and do not require any special footwork - just walking! These dances will be taught throughout the ball, and will be the majority of the program. We will also teach a selection of the evening’s dances at the afternoon workshop for those who want to give them a try. All dancing will be done to recorded music, so you will be able to practice to the songs you’ll dance to in the evening.


Do I need a partner?

As was considered polite in the 19th century, we encourage guests to change partners throughout the evening. You do not need to bring a specific partner, although we encourage groups to attend - the more the merrier!


What should I wear?

Guests are encouraged to come dressed in whatever feels fancy and elegant. Historical costumes of the mid-19th century, historical “fancy dress” or masquerade costumes, or modern Wonderland-inspired costume elements added to your evening attire will all be admired but are not required.


We do recommend flat or low heeled shoes, as modern high heels are not conducive to historical dances.


Most people wear modern comfortable clothes for the workshop. Folks attending the afternoon practice will be able to leave any items or changes of clothes at the hall in between, and you will be able to change in the hall if desired.


Will there be food?

Light refreshments will be served during the ball, but we strongly encourage eating dinner beforehand. Andover has several lovely restaurants for dinner near the Old Town Hall at a range of price points.


About Footwork and Frolick

The Footwork & Frolick Society is a 501(c)(3) public charity located in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Our mission is to promote historical education through the research, recreation, performance, and instruction of eighteenth and nineteenth century dance and other active pursuits rooted in the social traditions of the American Northeast. 

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09/14/2024 19:00:00 09/14/2024 22:00:00 America/New_York Wonderland Ball <p>Lewis Carroll’s beloved novels <em>Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland</em> (1865) and <em>Through the Looking Glass</em> (1871) introduced mid-19th century readers throughout Europe and America to...

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