Objects of Substance- Shall We Dance- Year 12 Formal

The triumphant return of the formal came in 1996. Antonia Swindells remembers many lead-up assemblies devoted to discussions of acceptable behaviour, understanding that the event was a privilege, and that they were not to spoil it for future years. The venue was the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and, over the ensuing years, the Plaza Room was transformed into many exotic locations and themes. Kathryn Talbot (2008) remembers her formal, Masquerade … “the highlights were chunky, side fringes fierce, the rhinestones blinding, and the formal may have created a national shortage in satin.” (Email 7.09.21)

2008 Masquerade Formal

The Formal Committee “came home” to Gregory Terrace in 2015 when they decided to host the Formal at the Royal International Convention Centre or the renovated RNA. Once again, girls were transported through time to mystical places and elegant settings. For over 100 years, whether in taffeta or lace, silk or satin, bright red or deep purple, Grammar girls have primped, posed, pouted, and lost sleep over partners and parties for the School formal. 2020 posed a new challenge: COVID19 restrictions, lockdowns, quarantine, social distancing, and no dancing! Fortunately, the 2021 Winter Wonderland Formal sees the return of the dance floor. Perhaps, as a celebration and a nod to our history, it should also see the return of the dance card.