The masquerade ball

Published 1:57 pm Wednesday, August 17, 2022

Last weekend Lorie and I attended a masquerade ball in Greeneville, and wow, what fun it was. It was put on by the Appalachian Renaissance Group of East Tennessee. Upon entering, we were announced and found our way around the room lined with white linen-clad tables. Once we made our way around the royal table, a gentleman with a painted half phantom of the opera mask invited us to sit opposite him and his lady friend. We sat and looked around the room, and Lorie and I were both amazed at the levels people went to build as authentic a costume as possible. It was amazing to witness.

We sat and talked for a while before serving the salad; it was unique yet familiar but tasted fantastic. The main course consisted of bread, an egg that seemed to have been deep-fried, unusual, but everyone seemed to enjoy it, except for me; I am not fond of eggs unless they are fried to where I can dip my toast into it. The chicken, still on the bone, tasted delicious. The green beans and mashed potatoes were fantastic. There was even a tiny bar serving wine. The night concluded with lots of music and dancing; the music was provided by a DJ who seemed to have nearly as much fun as the guests.

The group celebrates the Renaissance and history in the Tri-Cities, TN, and Appalachian area, coming together to create, produce and contribute to the surrounding area for interactive art, entertainment, theater, arts and crafts, and music with a historical and fantasy venue. It is also our purpose to utilize Appalachian and Old World cultures, history, literature, and music with which to provide platforms for recognizing and celebrating the rich legacy of the Celtic Appalachian Mountains ancestry.

If you can stop by one of their festivals, I promise you will not be disappointed.

You can find the group on Facebook or visit their website at: https://appalachianrenaissancefaire.com