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Welcome:
Welcome to the 2004 Playford Ball! I hope you will enjoy the 18 dancing
puzzles, as well as those traditional staples of the parlour: food and
conversation. A few rules of the game:
- In keeping with the puzzle theme, a few dances are more puzzling than
others. Occasional bits of confusion add spice to the dance floor, so your
lighthearted attitude towards any improvisations (intentional or otherwise)
that occur during the evening is appreciated. Assist others gently and
nonverbally, and make physical contact only when authorized by the dance
instructions.
- I hope you will enjoy a mixture of old favorite dances and new ones, with
a mixture of old friends and new ones. Please minimize booking ahead, and
clear the board between puzzles to insure the pieces become well mixed. Higher
scores will be awarded to those who seek out unfamiliar faces and help
minimize the number of those unintentionally sitting out.
- The verbal dance directions refer to "men" and "women", but these are
simply roles based on one's initial position in the set. There are no other
rules about who may dance in these particular roles, or who may ask (or be
asked) to dance. Sometimes the most elegant solution if a dance puzzle
switches your gender role is to go with the flow.
- Dances will be briefly walked through, but not prompted. If you'd like
further clues for any of the puzzles, please attend one of the ball workshops,
the rehearsal, or visit our dance notes.
Two particularly challenging puzzles are recommended only for those who have
done them before.
- Fancy dress and period costumes are encouraged, but please eschew
aftershave, perfume, and other scented products. This will improve the
atmosphere for the significant number of dancers who have adverse reactions to
such products.
Most importantly enjoy the wonderful music, elegant dancing, superb food, and
the company of excellent people!
Tom Roby, Puzzler & Parlour Master
Here are a few quick reminders to help you
and others enjoy the event:
The Playford Ball is a "fragrance-free"
event. Please do not wear perfumes, colognes, scented shampoos or deodorants, or
engage in any partaking of tobacco products as they may cause unpleasant (or worse!)
reactions in some of our dancers.
When the Ball is over, please collect
your things and join us for the Late-night Frolics
after party. If you
dawdle too long, you will find yourself recruited for the cleanup crew.
The after party and Morning Romp (next morning
Sunday Brunch) are potluck
events. Please bring your favorite food to share. Friends and family are
welcome at the brunch.
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