Live music by The Tricky Brits and The History Ball String Trio
Sword fighting demonstration by Jenn Bahrs and Jason Ellis  

This event is eligible for a just-for-fun McMenamins Tacoma History Ball Passport stamp. 

McMenamins History cordially invites you to the Tacoma History Ball in the historical Spanish Ballroom- a grand affair celebrating the historical costumes of the world before 1920, inspired by Bridgerton, Jane Austen, the Gilded Age, and more! Whether you love Renaissance fashion, the Court of Versailles, Regency elegance, Victorian styles, or the Edwardian age, don your chosen fashion and dance the night away to classical ballroom music from the 19th century and beyond, performed by two live ensembles: The Tricky Brits and The History Ball String Trio.  

Over the course of this magical evening, you'll get the chance to learn traditional English Country Dancing with dance caller Laura Mé Smith, watch a sword fighting demonstration, learn to waltz, and fill out your keepsake dance card. There will also be a photo station and time for simply enjoying the music, drinks, and the charming, historical ambience.  

Have questions? We have answers! Visit our Tacoma History Ball FAQ page for more details. 

Please note: While we take delight in the beautiful fashions and styles from history, we embrace and celebrate today's modern expressions of freedom, acceptance, and equality for all. Vintage style, not vintage values!

ABOUT THE TRICKY BRITS

The Tricky Brits are a four-piece ensemble of excellent Puget Sound musicians who perform splendid 18th-19th century English country music for your dancing pleasure. The band features Anita Anderson on piano; Dave Bartley on mandolin, guitar, and cittern; Betsy Cooper on flute; and former Seattle Symphony violinist Sande Gillette.

ABOUT THE HISTORY BALL STRING TRIO

The classical musicians Gwendolyn Taylor and Mary Manning on violin, and Margaret Thorndill on cello have enjoyed many years of playing in various ensembles in the south Puget Sound, such as the Symphony Tacoma and Northwest Sinfonietta. They are delighted to unite for this special occasion as the History Ball String Trio.

ABOUT LAURA MÉ SMITH

Laura Mé Smith is a contra-dance and English Country Dance caller from Seattle with decades of experience leading dances in the Pacific Northwest. Laura Mé has a talent for making historical dances easy and effortlessly enjoyable. She is also a theatrical costume designer.