Even if you’re not a regular attendee of Red Deer Symphony Orchestra concerts, you may already know their New Year’s Eve parties are legendary.
The 2018 edition of the Black and White Ball will be no different, as this pillar of the local arts community presents a Venetian style masquerade party that offers you a sit-down dinner, dancing, casino fun, raffle prizes and more.
It’s the perfect way for you to ring in the new year in style. It’s also a great way to help the symphony continue to provide world-class live performances, expand its accessibility to music for vulnerable and elderly citizens, and inspire the next generation of musicians through its various school-related programs, says executive director Chandra Kastern.
Great reasons to be at the Ball
With a $65,000 goal for this largest fundraiser of the year for the symphony, filling the Event Centre at the Sheraton Red Deer Hotel is important, but so is making the Black and White Ball a playful night for all. Here’s a rundown of what else you’ll experience:
- You’ll receive a handful of play money for use at the gaming tables – you can purchase more if you run out
- Mysterious, silly or glamorous – your call! – pics in the photo booth
- Have your palms read, if you dare!
- A chance to get in on raffle tickets for some great mystery prizes; the draws will be made every hour until the end of the night
- Local pop rock band Funhouse will provide music to keep the dance floor busy all night
- Enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbly to toast in the new year!
Dress as formal or casual as you like
“People look forward to this event all year,” Kastern says, explaining the Black and White theme is in homage to the orchestra musicians who always perform as such. “Some people go the simple route, with a plain white shirt and black jeans, but Black Knight Tuxedos is offering a deep discount for this event. I also know there’s whole gang of people right now who are already plotting out their hair, nails and dresses.”
And the masquerade aspect of the party adds mystique to the proceedings. Don’t have a mask to wear? No problem. For a donation you can have a professional makeup artist apply one for you.
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As Central Alberta’s only professional performing arts organization, the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra is committed to igniting a passion for arts and culture in the area. If you’d like to donate but won’t be attending the Ball (click the link above for tickets), the annual Red Envelope Campaign is another way you can support the RDSO financially.
You can also sponsor the Black and White Ball by calling Chandra Kastern at 403-340-2948, and you can follow the RDSO on Facebook.
