The 2024 Jefferson Ball
the jefferson ball
The Richmond dancers cordially invite you to join us for the 2024 Jefferson Ball. Our ball is traditionally is held in early November and is the highlight of our dancing year. This year we are featuring the splendid live music by Elke Baker, Liz Donaldson, and Paul Oorts. Our program is a mix of favorites from the early Playford manuscripts, dances popular in the American colonies, and new dances choreographed in the traditional style. All attendees must pre-register for the ball.
PREPARATION
Those wishing to review the dances are invited to the free review session on the day of the ball at the Belmont ballroom from 1:30 to 3:30 pm. Brand new dancers should attend class for several months to learn the dances beforehand. All of our Wednesday sessions in September and October will include some of the ball dances.
ATTIRE
Formal attire is requested to help make the evening festive. Colonial or Regency attire reflect the historic origins of this dance tradition, but are not required. Suits, kilts, or tuxes for men and evening gowns or party dresses for ladies are also warmly welcomed.
THE SCHEDULE and PROGRAM
The ball will begin promptly at 6:30 pm with The Minuet, followed by English Country Dances. The interval provides time to socialize and enjoy hors d’oeuvres and desserts. The ballroom will be open from 6 to 11 pm. The country dances are listed in alphabetical order below with an approximate indication of their difficulty (E = easy, M = Moderate, D = Difficult). The order of dances will be posted in the ballroom.
Barbarini’s Tambourine (E)
Barham Down (D)
The Braes of Dornoch (M)
Come Let’s Be Merry (E)
Cross My Heart (M)
Crystal Spring (M)
Dance of a Lifetime (E)
Dublin Bay (M)
Elephant Stairs (E)
Hyde Park (E)
The Irish Howle (E)
Laisteridge Lane (D)
Lilli Burlero (E)
Mary K (D)
Newcastle (D)
On the Midway (M)
Rural Felicity (M)
St. Martin’s Lane (M)
Ties of Love (E)
Up with Aily (E)