By Jessica Dillon
Rachel Kirchner and the Operation SpiritSeekers Paranormal Team are bringing a touch of mystery to Martinsville. The local paranormal investigation group is hosting a masquerade ball at Spencer-Penn Center on Oct. 25, complete with games, prizes, and a costume contest.
Kirchner said the idea came after attending a masquerade ball last year at Saint Albans Sanatorium in Radford, Virginia.
“I’ve always wanted to host my own ball, and so I said, well, we’ve got costumes now, and let’s, let’s get one going,” she said.
After exploring several venues in the area, the couple booked Spencer-Penn Center. Friends and family are helping to bring the event to life.
Kirchner hopes the community embraces the event.
“If it does have the goodness of success, we’re planning on making it like a yearly thing,” she said. She added that ticket sales are moving and the response on social media has been positive.
The evening will feature games with prizes, including a “pick a duck” game with small, medium, or large gifts. One game invites participants to stick their hands in a box and blindly feel for a prize.
“I hope all the guests have a good time. The main ticket that gets you in the gate, in the door, puts you in for a drawing automatically,” Kirchner said.
A decorated photo area will let attendees capture memories, and a costume contest will award prizes for best couple’s costume, scariest costume, and funniest costume.
“I want to have an area set up, decorated, and have a banner up where people can take pictures and have memories,” she said.
A costume contest will also be held on site with the best couple’s costume, scariest costume, and funniest costume.
While masks or face paint are required, attendees are free to dress as they like.
“If you want to wear a ball gown, wear a ball gown. If you want to dress like a nurse or something, do it,” Kirchner said.
She cited inspiration from classic films. “Gone With the Wind. When they went to the picnic, and then they had all the girls dressed real fancy, and stuff, because that is like one of my favorite movies.”
She also mentioned “Casper” as an inspiration. “Casper, when they had the little Halloween party, and they’re all dressed up, and that’s, that’s my next favorite.”
The event is alcohol-free, but food and drinks will be provided. Doors open at 6 p.m., and tickets are $25 each, available on Eventbrite. Anyone who is 13 and older may attend.
