This past weekend I was not able to attend Titanic weekend with The Commonwealth Vintage Dancers due to other obligations with Krzystyna Harber Photography. I did however send our event photographer Liz Paonessa.
Here is the event in her own words.
I had the honor of photographing the Commonwealth Vintage Dancers’ Titanic Vintage Dance Weekend in Salem, Massachusetts. It was an amazing weekend to honor the 100th anniversary of the Titanic’s ill-fated voyage. On Saturday I attended their formal tea luncheon at the gorgeous Hawthorne Hotel’s Grand Ballroom. I have never been to an event quite like this one! The period outfits immediately astounded me and I felt like I had gone back in time and was on the Titanic. Then I found out that many of the clothing and accessories were handmade! I had a great afternoon photographing everyone and meeting all the people in the Dancers. The crowd was made up of people from all over New England, from costume makers to re-enactors, teachers to everyday people.
In the evening there was a formal dinner and Grand Ball in the Colonial Hall at Rockafella’s. The live orchestra lit up the ballroom and had everyone dancing the night away. They performed Ragtime era dances headed by Barbara Pugliese as Dancemaster. Everyone was led in a group dance sequence, which was so much fun to photograph. There was a great mix of age groups with even teenagers dancing with humongous smiles on their faces. If I had thought the outfits at the Tea were amazing, the ones at the Ball blew me away! Exquisite ball gowns, tiaras, and large hats filled the room.
This weekend was a great experience and loved working with the Commonwealth Vintage Dancers. I hope to see their upcoming Newport Vintage Dance Week July 28 through August 4 where they will be at the finest ballrooms in Newport’s famous mansions! I also would love to see them in the studio!
