Spend the evening of Saturday, Dec. 31, in the Civil War/Victorian period when the South Charleston Town Hall and Opera House presents its 10th anniversary of the annual New Year’s Eve Grand Ball.
It will be 8:30 p.m. to midnight. The start will be a half-hour earlier than in previous years.
In the spirit of breaking the rules, this is actually the 11th such ball despite being recognized as the 10th according to event co-manager Julia Sutherly.
Inspired by history, the ball brings together two unique groups including Civil War reenactors and vintage dancers interested in styles popular in the past. Many wear period costumes, but Sutherly said it’s for everyone.
“We keep it a lighthearted family event,” she said. “We have many families, even a 2-year-old who stayed up to midnight. If you don’t have a costume or want to come in one, wear modern formal wear.”
It began when Civil War reenactor friends talked about how much they liked the Opera House, which opened in 1879. The first event was a summer ball and its success inspired the New Year’s version, something Sutherly wanted to do for years.
“I feel a real personal connection to our guests. They’ve really become friends over the years,” she said.
Attendees come from Columbus, Cincinnati, Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky and as far away as Georgia. The latter includes a woman who owns a costume shop and her daughter who is a dance enthusiast. They make this an annual stop after visiting friends for the holidays.
The anniversary will include special additions including a photographer for the first time since the initial ball. Attendees can get their photo taken and printed for a fee right on the site.
There will also be a display of previous posters, dance cards, clippings and other memorabilia from previous balls.
Door prizes will be given with the grand prize a night at the local bed and breakfast. Homemade Victorian era desserts including cakes, pies and cookies as well as punch will be served.
The Tippecanoe Dance Orchestra will provide live music for dances from the 1850-1870 period, called by a dancemaster. At midnight, a toast will cap the evening.
Sutherly said the ball is perfect for history fans or anybody looking for something a little different to celebrate the new year.
“It’s a lot of fun,” she said. “You’ll be hooked.”
Proceeds from the ball will go toward the upkeep of historical properties managed by the Heritage Commission.
What: New Year's Eve Grand Ball
Where: South Charleston Town Hall and Opera House, 35 S. Chillicothe St., South Charleston
When: Saturday, Dec. 31, 8:30 p.m. to midnight
Admission: $30 a person; ages 10-under free
More info: 937-360-5527 or www.facebook.com/events/1114934831928653
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