On 1 October, the Faculty of Philology of Voronezh State University and the Kamenny Most historical dance studio held their first Open Autumn Ball. The event included ballroom dances from the XVIII–XIX centuries, various performance acts, games and quizzes.
Despite the egalitarian dress code, all the guests did their best to match the spirit of the era. There were ladies wearing hoop skirt and gentlemen in tail-coats. The participants were not only VSU students, but also cadets of the Zhukovsky and Gagarin Air Force Academy.
In the breaks between the grand marches, polka, and waltzes, the guests could drink a cup of tea, have a snack, and take pictures. Anyone wishing to do so could take a photograph with the vintage accessories. One of the competitions called “Photos come alive” had the participants imitate the posture of the dancing couples shown in hundred-year-old photographs.
By the way, it was not even necessary to know how to dance! Under the tactful guidance of the dancing-master Alexey Nelyubov, each of the guests was able to overcome their unease and feel completely at home at this dazzling event. The first ball was part of a series of similar dances: on 5 November, a Pride-and-Prejudice-themed ball is to be held at the University.
