Having a Ball

Karlie and Jimmy

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to do something I have done at least 21 times in my life…go to Prom. As a high school teacher, and the Senior Class Advisor, I have enjoyed numerous opportunities to jump into a Conga line, dance the Macarena and most recently do the Cha-Cha Slide, all while watching the evolution of youth around me.

Jamie and Logan

Styles have changed, music has changed, and expectations have changed. Even the ritual itself has changed. It is no longer a dating couple’s night of romantic expectations. Instead, it’s a group of friends dressing up, going together and then watching movies afterwards at someone’s house while the parents make a midnight breakfast. The stereotype of boys sitting in chairs against the walls has been replaced by the reality of everyone out on the dance floor until the final song, with even the wallflowers making it a memorable evening. You know what that means? Mary Bennet would have left her sheet music at home and given Lydia and Kitty a run for their money!

But, as we all know, historical balls can be just as appreciated as modern balls. As I’ve mentioned previously, every year before Covid my AP English class and my Creative Writing Club joined forces to hold a Jane Austen Ball as a fundraiser. We had both a local historical band ‘Quite Carried Away,’ (check out their stuff…it’s fantastic!) and Lyse Dyckman, a professional caller, donate their time for the event. My students truly get lost in the experience!

JASNA- Sacramento Region Members

On average, 100-150 students and community members attend, some in historical costume, but all in ‘fancy dress.’ They laugh and giggle at the dance patterns, while tripping over their feet and bumping into each other. More than once a night, I hear “I feel like Mr. Collins at the Netherfield Ball,” or “No wonder Elizabeth was mortified when Mr. Collins went the wrong way!”

This year’s ball was put on hold, but my students are anticipating its return next year. Because, although they are not as practiced as young men or ladies of previous generations, we all know that not only is dancing a certain step towards falling in love, but also…any savage can dance!