In celebration of the signature work of their upcoming season, including Tchaikovsky’s “Cinderella”, the Washington Ballet hosted their very own Cinderella Ball.  

One month before the event it was decided that all of the String Musicians should be dressed in 18th Century matching costumes, as well as the six Herald Trumpeters and a Harpist.  The beautifully tailored costumes, complete with wigs, added a dramatic touch to the fairy tale feel of this event.

As guests arrived at the red-carpeted staircase entrance to the Mellon Auditorium, they were presented with the majestic fanfares of six Herald Trumpeters announcing their arrival, producing sighs of delight from many of the guests.

Upon entering the auditorium, guests were greeted by the soothing sounds of the string ensemble.  Their elegant matching attire created the appearance of true court musicians.

Patrons were then entertained by three tableaus of the Ballet, acted out on small stages by dancers from the Washington Ballet.  These tableaus were separated by pipe and drape and elaborately lit, positioned along the length of the auditorium leading to the cocktail area.

The subtle yet elegant sound of a solo Harpist, in costume, filled the cocktail room, continuing the romance of this fairy tale event.

After dinner, one of DC’s hottest dance bands took the stage.  One of the requirements from the Special Event Manager of the Washington Ballet was to keep the patrons and the young ballet dancers on the dance floor.  One patron remarked as they were leaving, “The band was perfect!”