The Victorian Society of Colorado Springs is Having a Ball!

The Victorian Society of Colorado Springs (VSCS), primarily focused on dances from the period, has grown since its inception last spring. A few people who enjoy dressing up in Victorian clothing and doing dances from the Victorian era started meeting in Colorado Springs in the spring of 2006 to practice dancing. As with most pastimes that are lots of fun, things just took off from there. Who would have guessed that there were so many people in this area that truly enjoyed doing reels, quadrilles, waltzes and polkas? It's amazing how many of the dancers wanted to recreate the dances of the period as accurately as possible, dances that were actually done at balls and gatherings in the 19 th century. The VSCS held its first Grand Victorian Ball last October. "Our first ball was a tremendous success. This has been a good year for the group and we are excited about the opportunities to get involved with other organizations in the Colorado Springs area," said Denise Winter, founder and member of the VSCS.

Although currently members are most interested in dancing in the Victorian manner, the VSCS is dedicated to the preservation of all of the rich history of the Victorian era. They are finding that as they grow, many of the members have other unique interests and talents. Some are experts or serious students in Victorian fashion, jewelry, music, etiquette, antiques, the Civil War, dance instruction, dance calling, social customs, and more. Some are even interested in portraying interesting characters of the period and perhaps reenacting gunfights or duels. The Victorian Society of Colorado Springs may accommodate all of these interests over time.

A fairly new and informally organized Society at this time, the VSCS welcomes Victorian enthusiasts of all ages at monthly dance practices and events year round. You do not need to know the dances in advance or have a partner. Dances are simple and are taught by a Dance Master. Events and dance practice sessions are held in the Colorado Springs area.

In addition to the Grand Victorian Ball last October, there have been fun and interesting events throughout the year. A demonstration of Victorian dances was well received by the historic Broadmoor Waltz Club in April. In July, VSCS sponsored a lawn party and dancing at Rock Ledge Ranch. At Founders Day at Bancroft Park in Old Colorado City, Victorian music, dance and costume were demonstrated.

The biggest VSCS event of 2007 will be Saturday, September 29, 2007 from 5:30 -11:00 PM. This will be the 2 nd Annual Grand Victorian Ball. The VSCS will dazzle guests with decorations, dancing and music at the Elks Club on North Nevada Avenue in Colorado Springs, celebrating the theme of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, written in 1865 by Lewis Carrol (1832-1898). You do not have to be a member or know how to dance to attend the ball.

Tickets are $36 per person prior to September 1 and $38 per person after September 1. Children's tickets (12 and under) are $18. Persons under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Victorian or contemporary formal attire is requested. Send reservations and checks payable to: Victorian Society of Colorado Springs, 4419 Centennial Blvd., Suite 223, Colorado Springs, CO. 80907. Contact Barb at 265-5559, or email: info@victoriansocietycs.org for more information.

Visit the VSCS website at www.victoriansocietycs.org for more information regarding this ball and other events, view photos of previous events and view the schedule of monthly practices.