Masquerade Ball

Manuela was singing in a choir for the performance at the Masquerade Ball put on by the Friends of The Opera and was able to get free tickets. Chris and I were so excited to go with her! We had so much fun, getting our costumes ready and everything. It was a very fun night!

I made the skirt quite a few years ago for Sally’s wedding, and made up the top and bustle over the last couple of weeks. Lauren helped me decide on the ties in the back. I think they worked really well, but mostly I was happy to not have to put in a zipper!

Manuela borrowed her outfit from someone at work, but I made a bustle for her, too, so we matched!

There was glitter all over the head for weeks and weeks (the bustles shed a lot!).

I didn’t make Chris’s coat, but I did modify the cuffs, cravat, and replaced the trim.

The masks were a little intimidating I think, but we wanted to go for the traditional Venice carnival look. It was weird talking to Chris and Manu all night, joking and laughing but not seeing anyone laugh or smile — except for the crinkling of eyes and shaking of shoulders and other bodily effects of laughter.

There were a few group dances and I tried to do this one with Manuela. But it involved partner swapping and then a waltz! I couldn’t understand the dance director when she announced it, otherwise I would have ducked out! I ended up waltzing with an older man… it was a little embarassing because I hadn’t done it before and was so bad, but it was sort of fun, too!