Live Shots: Edwardian Ball’s 25th anniversary sang the body electric

The Edwardian Ball celebrates the sensual, knowing its pleasures are ethereal. The event offered all manner of tributes to the human form while celebrating its 25th anniversary at the Regency Ballroom on January 30 and 31.

Body adornments—a suit of buttons, bustles, chaps, hats and headdresses, horns, wings—were donned by performers and attendees alike. Attendees were treated to Dark Garden’s live models, Qui’n de la Noche’s and Kitty Oakes’ sexy burlesques, Zoe Jakes and her storytelling dancers. Vau de Vire Society Reviews highlighted the power of the body via Dwoira Galielea in an arial hoop, and Mz. K in a cube.

While events and installations were spread throughout, the Ball’s action centered on two main areas: the Grand Ballroom and the Museum of Wonders. In the former, The Speakeasy Syndicate started and ended the evening and provided musical interludes. Carnie Asada shepherded the acts and offered commentary and witty repartee. Gaucho Jazz ushered in the dance experience with their feisty renditions of old standards and new favorites. With The Barbary Ghost at the mixer and Dorian Dietrich as emcee, the Museum of Wonders in the Regency’s resplendent Masonic Lodge showcased the sonic zen vibes of Stephanie Law and the jazzy tunes of Dr. Abacus.

When not tripping the light fantastic, one could see art such as Alter Ego Design, Kinetic Steam Works souvenir coasters, or one of the myriad 2026 Edwardian Ball artists. One could buy art at the Vendor Bazaar, be art as Edi Hsu sketched away, or make art as a part of Sasha Igdari’s “Sounds of Silence: Caged Thoughts” interactive installation. No matter the method, creation is essential to the Edwardians.

Not content to merely watch, some manipulated their own bodies with an Absinthia cocktail or other libation.

And for those wanting a more immersive experience, Breck Dolan’s The Human Repair Chair was ready to help people “surrender to the mystery of what wants to arise”.

The proceedings invoked Walt Whitman’s “I sing the body electric”: “O I say these are not the parts and poems of the body only, but of the soul.” Paradox Media and Vau de Vire did indeed dish a delightful serving of Bay Area art and entertainment to stimulate the body and soothe the soul. Don’t miss it next year!