For the fourth year in a row, masked strangers will be taking over the ballroom at the Heritage Inn for the Masquerade Ball on May 11.
The annual fundraiser supports the Canadian Mental Health Association and organizer Roxanne Shandera hopes that it brings the importance of mental health to the front of everyone’s minds.
Having struggled with her own mental health in the past, Shandera felt that the topic was in need of some recognition and began organizing an event that would serve as a platform for the discussion. She felt that the masquerade was an apt metaphor to build from.
“I know that everybody wears masks and sometimes we wear more than one mask,” said Shandera. “But a lot of times people are going through their own little struggles and they don't know how to talk about it or they are thinking they shouldn't talk about it. . . and I just think that's not how it should be.”
The Masquerade Ball welcomes attendees to dress up and wear a mask for the night — the event even has masks available to purchase at the door, as well as a makeup artist to paint on something elaborate for those who would rather do that.
This year’s theme is “magical,” with guest entertainer Chris Strauss set to perform a magical set for the crowd. DJ Nick Meyers will be providing the music, and Shandera promises there will be at least one dance-off — an unofficial tradition of the ball.
Many of the attendees make their own masks, and are excited to do so each year; Shandera remains impressed by the craftsmanship.
“There's bird masks, there's masks with horns and rings in the nose. And there's checkered masks, there's flower masks, there's just no end of all the different masks, it's very cool,” said Shandera. “And for outfits, I mean, we had some incredible, beautiful, thoughtful costumes that are handmade and they're spectacular.”
The event aims to bring people together in a fun atmosphere, to remind them that although mental health is a prevalent issue, discussing it doesn’t have to be a somber affair. Creating a light and supportive atmosphere to acknowledge the presence of mental health was Shandera’s goal.
“I wanted to be able to just get the word out, to be able to make it an easier conversation and just get more information out there,” said Shandera. “I really wanted to do something in my own community.”
Tickets for the ball are still available and can be purchased either at Wrapture Spa or by calling Roxanne directly at (306) 631-1199. Information about the event is kept up to date through the Masquerade Ball’s Facebook page.
