The University of Chicago’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1892

Chicago Maroon

The University of Chicago’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1892

Chicago Maroon

The University of Chicago’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1892

Chicago Maroon

Lascivious Ball unfolds the pin-ups

After its revival last year, the Ball continues strong.

The Lascivious Ball was first thrown in the 1960s as an event dedicated to sexual freedom and expression. Some past activities include showings of X-rated films, readings from pornographic novels, and exotic dancers. There was also a “less-you-wear-less-you-pay” rule, meaning that the cost of admission was proportional to the amount of clothing worn. In 1984, however, the University administrators dropped the Ball after it began drawing non-University guests, lewd behavior, and serious drug and alcohol use.

Last year, UChicago HYPE, a student organization that creates social events for fellow students, decided to reinstate the Ball. Of course, they included a few new precautionary measures. For instance, no alcohol, exposure of genitalia, or cameras were allowed. There will also be one set price for admission, no matter how little clothing you wear. Last year’s Lascivious Ball ran smoothly and avoided the major issues that doomed the event in the past, which gave HYPE the go-ahead to host it again this year.

HYPE President Christina Wang explained, “We are hoping to make this second year of the Lascivious Ball even better than it was last year, with a ’50s pin-up theme, and performances by RBIM, UChicago MAYA, and MODA’s fall fashion show. We'll be having a student DJ [second-year Quinten Rosborough], and Melanie Fiona [will] give a live performance. Melanie was named as one of Entertainment Weekly’s Top 10 artists to watch for in 2009.”

The fall fashion show features nine designers showcasing their handiwork. While the theme of the LCB is ’50s pin-up, the designers’ collections are not required to stick to the theme. “Some designers are using pin-up theme, but some are using the essence of the ’50s, and others are just doing something sexy with their designs,” explained MODA President Kathleen Monaghan. In keeping with the spirit of the Ball, the fashion show will be playing around with the idea of sexuality. Kathleen added, “There will be skin to show, but we are still abiding by the rules.”

The Lascivious Ball is being thrown for University of Chicago students, but anyone with a UCID will be able to purchase up to 2 tickets. HYPE will be tabling in the Reynold's Club Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will also sell any remaining tickets at the door. Although street clothes are allowed, attendees are highly encouraged to dress up according to the '50’s pin-up theme. So get out your high-waisted shorts and crop-top and head out to Ida Noyes for a night of lasciviousness.

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