RivADance Studio Community Debutante Balls - April editions

By Oliver Shedden

May 3, 2024

Together: Debutantes at the RivADance Studio Community Debutante Ball April 2024 Photo: Supplied. Photo by Supplied

RivADance Studio held its April edition of the Community Debutante Ball at Rich River Golf Club on Friday, April 26 and Saturday, April 27.

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Over 200 seated guests watched as 26 girls from the community were ceremoniously introduced on the nights as part of a societal tradition that dates to the 18th century.

The girls, dressed in white ball gowns, were accompanied by young men who were either partners or friends of the debutantes. They were wearing dinner suits with pink bowties and white gloves.

The debutantes and their partners spent months preparing, including dance rehearsals, for their performances to the community.

Eight balls are held for the season, with two each month until June, when the season ends.

Dressed up: All of the debutantes at the first April RivADance Studio Community Debutante Ball. Photo: Supplied. Photo by Supplied

Event coordinator and trainer Collette May was happy with how the April editions of the event went, highlighting how the ball is community-oriented.

“It was a fantastic night. We had over 200 seated guests for dinner and a two-course meal, and we also had viewers come and watch, usually friends and other debutants. It was a real community environment,” she said.

“The kids presented to members of the board at Rich River Golf Club, usually with the CEO and their partner.

“Debutante balls are a cherished tradition in Echuca, offering a unique opportunity for young adults to participate in a formal event that includes a dance component.”

Ms May also emphasised that debutantes don’t need to be from any particular school to participate and spoke about the training process.

United: All debutantes and their partners at the first April RivADance Studio Community Debutante Ball 2024. Photo: Supplied Photo by Supplied

She also reflected on her time organising the debutante balls and how they have positively influenced the community.

“To get involved, they normally just contact our Facebook page. It’s usually friend groups that do it, so they talk to each other and then start enrolling,” she said.

“The debutant ball is open to all girls in the community; it doesn’t matter what school they attend, they can participate.

“They all train together at the start, and then we split them into two groups about two weeks out.

“Our debutante balls are a truly special event that brings the community together.

“Celebrations like these not only create lasting memories but also foster a sense of unity and camaraderie among students from various schools.

“I’ve been doing this for 12 years, and I’d say it’s been a bit of a success; everyone loves coming out and supporting the debutants, and they enjoy doing it.”