Soldiers & Sweethearts: A Civil War Valentine's Ball Saturday, February 4, 2012 ~ 8:00-11:00 PM Pratt Hall, 311 Temple Street, New Haven, Connecticut with calling by Susan de Guardiola to the delightful music of Spare Parts Bill Matthiesen, Liz Stell, Eric Buddington as heard in the film Bright Star and on The Civil War Ballroom

Please join Susan de Guardiola and the fine musicians of Spare Parts for a Valentine's ball of the American Civil War era.

The evening will include a mix of 1860s couple dances (waltz, polka, schottische, galop) and set dances (contra dances and quadrilles). Ball cards will be provided. All set dances are accessible for beginners and will be taught at the ball. A workshop focusing on the couple dances of the Civil War era will be held on the afternoon of the ball for those who would like to improve their dance skills.

Advance reservations are strongly recommended -- space is strictly limited to seventy dancers and people will be admitted at the door only if space permits!

Formal costume of the 1850s & 1860s is encouraged though not strictly required; please see the link at right for more information and suggestions.
Comfortable casual clothing is fine for the dance workshop. Flat leather-soled shoes or dance slippers are recommended for the ball - no hobnailed boots or shoes and absolutely no high heels!