Ball offers chance to enter Jane Austen’s world

It is a truth universally acknowledged that those who love to dance and dress fancy must attend a Jane Austen Ball. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet your very own Mr Darcy.

Ladies and gentleman at the 2018 Jane Austen Ball. Picture: David de Groot

IT is a truth universally acknowledged that those who love to dance and dress fancy must attend a Jane Austen Ball.

Ladies and gentleman are cordially invited to don their cravats and knee breeches, empire line dresses and gloves and make their way to Sandgate Town Hall on October 19 for a night of exceptional dancing.

But do not tarry as tickets are strictly limited for the third Jane Austen Ball organised by Australian Colonial Dance.

Dancers are encouraged to dress in Regency attire. Picture: David de Groot

Dance teacher and historian Dr Heather Blasdale Clarke said there was a growing fascination with Jane Austen and the ball offered “a window into a different world”.

“Some people love the dressing up and the special atmosphere of a ball, others love the dancing itself,” she said.

“It’s a dynamic way to bring history to life, which is quite unique. How else can one be totally immersed in Jane Austen’s culture?

“To quote Jane, ‘Fine dancing, I believe, … must be its own reward’.

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“The number of tickets is strictly limited because for this type of dancing a considerable amount of room is required in order to dance well.

“We would hate our participants to be cramped, and although we could sell more tickets, we like to ensure a comfortable space for everyone.”

Dr Blasdale Clarke said the English country dances to be performed on the night have been described as “the most social form of dance”.

Ready to dance at the 2018 Jane Austen Ball. Picture: David de Groot

“They … are the basis of bush dance and many other types of folk dance,” she said.

“They are danced in groups (sets) and, although you have a partner, you also dance with everyone in the group.

“Jane Austen was writing at the time Australia was being colonised, so the dances she cherished were the same ones that were being danced here in the late 1700s and early 1800s.

“We have workshops to teach the dances, but we also teach them on the night, so everyone is welcome, even if they have two left feet.”

The dancers will be accompanied by music ensemble Phillip’s Dog, which Dr Blasdale Clarke said was the only band in the world specialising in Australian Colonial Regency dance music.

“We use the instruments of the period — fiddle, piano, clarinet, viola, harp and flute,” she said.

English country dances performed at the 2018 Jane Austen Ball. Picture: David de Groot

The first Jane Austen Ball commemorated the 200th anniversary of her death in 1817.

“There were no other Regency balls happening in Brisbane, and only a few in Australia, so it’s a very special event,” Dr Blasdale Clarke said.

She said the Sandgate Town Hall was a “splendid” venue.

“For a ball it’s important to have a large hall with the right ambience — something that has the brilliance and sparkle of a magnificent occasion.”

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Dr Blasdale Clarke said most ball goers dressed up “and for some this is the most important aspect”.

“We don’t insist on costumes, however in keeping with the splendour of the event, we ask people to dress well.”

Dr Blasdale Clarke said she loves the opportunity to share this special part of our heritage.

“Dancing used to be such an important part of social life, but the tradition of gathering together to dance in this communal way is largely lost in our society.

“It allows us to connect, it’s good for our wellbeing and, above all, it’s joyful.”

A Jane Austen Ball will be held on Saturday, October 19 from 7-11pm.

Tickets are available at eventbrite.com.au