March 30, 2006

don't miss this year's 20TH ANNIVERSARY SPRING CARNIVAL BALL

Join us on April 22nd for one of Rhode Island's best parties of the year. This gala extraordinaire will feature a popular Cuban roots band from NYC that will "blow the roof off," a Chinese Dragon and Yo-Yo Dancers, Big Nazos, Belly Dancers, and more...

With the mission to raise funds to benefit the Institute's programs and services for immigrants and refugees in Rhode Island, the Ball has the reputation of being one of the Ocean State's longest running and most diverse parties of the year, renown for its quality international entertainment, cuisine, and high energy. 

The Spring Carnival Ball's rich history of community and culture reaches farther back than many realize.  In 1939 the Institute held its first ball, featuring ethnic entertainment and food.  The second ball, in 1940, featured Armenian, Italian, Greek, Portuguese, and American dances, including a square dance demonstration by Brown students, as well as Harfa, a Polish choral group.  German, Chinese, and Mexican dancers were added the following year.  Attendees wore costumes they brought from their native lands.  During World War II the balls were no longer held on an annual basis, but by 1961, the Institute kicked-off the events once again.  Immigrants of this time wanted sociability, and the Institute responded with teas, film festivals, travelogues, open houses, cabarets, picnics, and balls, all of which were featured in the society pages of the Providence Journal.  The Institute was, and continues to be, proud to highlight the cuisine, languages, and national dress of the communities it serves... read more.
 

Help us reach our goal

Thanks to you we have reached $111,000 towards our goal of $160,000

Tickets for the Ball are $35 each and $15 for students and may be purchased in advance.  A limited number of tickets will also be available at the door. 

Patron tickets are available at $150 and includes 2 tickets to the Patron Reception from 7 PM to 8 PM, with special entertainment and hors d'oeuvres. 

To purchase tickets or for more information on how you can help us reach our goal call 401.784.8634 or visit out our "Spring Carnival Ball" website.  

Other ways to help...read more. 

It is an event not to be missed. We hope to see you there!