Kiana Bowden

If you happened to be walking by, or live in close proximity to the Old Course on Saturday you would have heard and seen the fireworks display for the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. The bright colours and sparks lit up the crowd, and among the spectators you could spot certain people in quite formal attire. The odd glittering dress, reflecting the light from the roman candles. A freshly pressed shirt with a rather fancy bowtie. Gelled hair. Tartan. The works. Their focus may have been on the fireworks, but attentions would soon be drawn to Lower College Lawn for the main event. Opening Ball.

After a brisk walk around St Salvator’s Quad, we were greeted with a glass of champagne. Other free treats on the night included candyfloss, popcorn and, of course, Jannetta’s ice cream. This was all well and good, if you didn’t mind queuing for quite some time. For example, there was one man making popcorn, one batch at a time which, logistically, could have been thought through a little better. But minor complaints aside- the marquees were lit up beautifully and seemed to be of a good size. Small enough to seem full and have a good atmosphere, but not so cramped that you were standing on dresses and toes too much. The music in both tents had everyone on their feet throughout the night, and when you felt like taking a rest the glowing seats outside provided a nice opportunity to cool down and socialise.

A pause to look around gave a good chance to admire how well we can scrub up in St Andrews. I couldn’t help complementing outfits, makeup and hairstyles. Everyone (including the freshers who may have been a bit unsure about what’s expected as regards to ball attire) looked incredible! And I hope that new students now know that it doesn’t matter what you wear- long or short, tartan or no tartan, blue suit or black suit, whatever it is. As long as you’re dressed to impress, and ready for a fun time, you’re good to go!

So overall, did Opening Ball live up to expectations? Comparing it to other balls I’ve been to in St Andrews, I can say that it served as a good introduction, especially for first years. But I’d be lying if I said it was absolutely perfect. I’m sure a lot of planning went into the event, and it truly was a great evening, but as an honest reviewer I felt it was lacking a little something. And I’m not talking about an additional popcorn vendor, as much as that would have been appreciated. I did hear one girl express her disappointment that there was no ceilidh… could be something new for next year perhaps? Something that little bit extra? I’m not sure what exactly, but more new and exciting features would not go amiss.

In summary, Opening Ball is a wonderful tradition. It contributes towards the charitable work supported by the Kate Kennedy Club. This year, as ever, it was a great excuse to dress in black tie attire and have a wonderful time. However, that does not mean there is no room for improvement. By all means keep the classic features of the ball formula, the ice cream, the champagne, the glitz and glamour… but give us something new and different too. Then we can talk about that fifth star.