AMU Students Keep Traditions Alive at 19th Century Ball
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- Published on Sunday, 23 February 2014 05:34
T
he scene in the Ave Maria University ballroom Saturday night was one that most people only see in period films as dozens of masked couples danced at a masquerade ball -- this year's version of the school's annual 19th-century ball.
With women wearing gowns -- many with bustles -- and young men in formal finery, dancers recreated a scene from a bygone era, dancing waltzes, quadrilles and other dances from the period.
"This is a really special event," said Father Robert Garrity, AMU's director of campus ministry, as he watched the dancers file by in a "grand march" opening procession. "It shows the values of respect and honor -- things you don't see at a lot of dances these days."
"This is the only dance I go to," said AMU senior Alexandra Clark, wearing an elaborate gown with a bustle -- one that she said she only can wear once a year. "I don't know where else I would wear it. It's pretty difficult to get into a car," she said.
The 19th-century ball has been a tradition at Ave Maria University for more than a decade, beginning when the school began in Michigan. It is led by dance mistress Cathy Stephens, who teaches the dances and set this year's masquerade theme.
Many of the students made their own masks, and some sported intricate designs purchased on trips to Italy or New Orleans.
Right, dance mistress Cathy Stephens announces the winners of the competition for the best mask to Danielle Hebert and Andrew Olson.
Benetict Leung, 7, and his sister, Gemma, 5, were among several town residents who also came to the ball.
Right, Mrs. Stephens leading the grand march of dancers at the start of the ball.
Masks were available for those who didn't bring their own. Welcoming dancers were, left to right, Kristin Stark, Grace Fahey, Courtney Maurno and Caitlin Dawson.