WMOA News

Masquerade Ball Happens Saturday

Posted on: 02/28/2013

Some of us are in a bit of a funk during these final, dreary days of a long winter. A group of local party animals believe they have the solution. How about a Masquerade Ball?

It takes place this Saturday evening (Mar. 2) at the Lafayette Hotel. One of the organizers, James Maddox with the Anchor newspaper, says the event was created at this time last year to lift people out of the winter doldrums.

“We just wanted to keep people active and give them a reason to get dressed up, and we came up with a masquerade ball. It’s a little different than what you’re used to seeing in the mid-Ohio Valley, especially at the level we push it to. It’s just a reason for us to have a really fun party,” Maddox explains.

Based on last year’s success and experience, Saturday’s event at the hotel is being expanded considerably.

Maddox says, “We’re opening it up to the entire first floor with musicians, singers, dancers and actors placed within the crowd…minglers to keep activity going within the crowd.”

In addition to a fully decorated ballroom, there will be a full appetizer buffet, a cash bar, a photo booth and a band called Qiet. “They make the most amazing original music,” he says, as well as knocking out covers of a wide range of acts.

A number of downtown merchants are promoting the event, as well as selling merchandise such as dresses and masks.

The Anchor’s Masquerade Ball at the Lafayette Hotel happens Saturday from 8 p.m. until midnight. Tickets are $40 per person or $65 dollars per couple in advance, or $45 and $75 at the door. Formal – even lavish – dress is highly encouraged.

Tickets can be purchased now through the day Saturday at Barking Dog Books, 212 Putnam Street; Teri Ann’s, 290 Front Street; SWAGG, 175 Front Street; or t he Marietta Brewing Company, 167 Front Street.