Mount Perry's Inaugural Masquerade Ball - 8th June 2024

Mount Perry came alive for a night, when the creative contributions of dozens of volunteers and around 80 attendees came together in a kaleidoscope of sounds, lighting, colours, handmade finery, decorations and sumptuous food for the town's first ever Masquerade Ball.

Greeted with a cocktail at the door, guests arrived in their gowns, capes, costumes and of course masquerade masks, which did indeed lend an incognito air to many well-disguised folks. Bundaberg entertainer Anthony Sprague welcomed the crowd with guitar and vocals, and local photographer and digital artist took studio portrait shots of participants, which added extra zest to the night.

A three-course dinner was served by the Federal Inn and then the superb sounds of the Max Sportelli Band from the Sunshine Coast & Brisbane (kindly sponsored by Evolution Mining) picked up the tempo. accompanied by local singers - Helen Downs and featuring Susie Jay & Joey Ace. The band also provided the opportunity for a couple of our other, brave, local, fledgling-vocalists to sing with such a band for the first time, providing their own unique 'Arts' experience to be savoured. Congratulations to Yara Barrozo and Shiralee Plowman on their shining performances.

You can see some of the night in this wonderful compilation clip made by young, local photographer and videographer, Jospeh Plowman here: https://youtu.be/MXH1a5OBNJU and here: https://youtu.be/LRvyt1TMrLU   

           

The Ball was declared a success by attendees, who were 'blown away' by the unique atmosphere and vibe of the night.

An exhibition of the masks, handmade finery, gowns and adornments opens at the Shelley Kelly Gallery, Mount Perry on Saturday, 6th July at 2pm and all are welcome to attend. The portrait photos taken on the night will also be unveiled at the opening... but a few sneak peeks appear here.          

                             Band Photos by Joseph Plowman