Ventfort Hall Waltzing into Valentine's Day
LENOX - Ventfort Hall and the Gilded Age Museum will celebrate Valentine's Day, the birthday of its original owner, George Hale Morgan, in 1840, with three events.First up is "Thé Dansents," or "Tea Dances," with special guests; then a book signing and appearance by "Les Petites Dames de Mode" creator John R. Burbidge, and a birthday for Morgan. All Georges are invited to attend the Thé Dansents for free!
On Thursday, Feb. 14, and Saturday, Feb. 16, from 5 to 7, guests will waltz into the early evening, savor a Victorian tea with tea sandwiches, sweets and chocolates plus favors for the ladies, and enjoy a viewing of the popular exhibit "Les Petites Dames de Mode" ("The Little Ladies of Fashion”) with Burbidge.
The exhibit of 60, 29-inches tall fashion models are fitted with exquisitely detailed costumes dating from1855-1914, when the waltz was all the rage. The exhibit will be available for viewing at all three events.
On Friday, Feb. 15, from 1 to 3, Burbidge will be on hand to meet with fans, talk informally about his ladies and autograph copies of his book "Les Petites Dames de Mode: An Adventure in Design."
Burbidge will do double duty by joining his wife, Cile, and another experienced dance couple, Harold and Lois Brown, in co-hosting both Thé Dansents. These experienced ballroom dancers will lead and demonstrate waltzes. The Burbidges are members of waltz societies in the Boston area and have attended the legendary New Year's balls in Vienna. As senior fashion designer for Priscilla of Boston for many years, Burbidge also designed numerous ball gowns for his wife.
The Browns are longtime volunteers at Ventfort and have been active in social ballroom dancing for more than 25 years. As founding members of the Strictly Ballroom Dance group for 10 years, they were involved in planning and sponsoring all the parties.
The dances will include waltz music of the family Strauss. Guests are encouraged to wear festive attire: long skirts and suits, which enhance the movement and appeal of the dance.
Entrance admission for the Thé Dansents events is $15 per person (10 percent discount to members.) Reservations are recommended by calling 413-637-3206. The book signing is included in the cost of admission to the museum ($12; discounts for groups, seniors, students and children.) Ventfort Hall is located at 104 Walker St.
