By Pietro Andrea Podda

pietro.podda@pragueforum.cz

Following an yearly tradition, the Austrian Ball has been held on the 20^th January at the prestigious Zofin Palace in the center of Prague (the location is a traditional hosting place for major events and has regularly been chosen for the Austrian Ball as well during the various years).

The organiser of the event, held under the auspices of His Excellency Alexander Van den Bellen, President of Austria, is the Association of Austrians in the Czech Republic, which relies on the services of Fortissimo Prague. The Municipality of Vienna is a patron of the event. Various companies and associations support the Ball.

The prestigious event is inspired and symbolizes Viennese cultural and historical traditions.  There is a ceremonial, with the grand opening by members of the Committee of Young Ladies and Gentlemen. Dances follow, with waltz and the technically more demanding quadrille. Professionals as well as attendees participate to the dances. Modern dances, in a disco- style, are usually representing a further part of the night and last until the early morning. Each lady will receive a small present, the so called “Damenspende”.

There is  touch of generosity as well because the Austrian Ball is a non-profit event and support a charity organisation Dejme dětem šanci (Let’s give children a chance).

The Prague Forum has participated to the event and has invited a number of diplomats and other professionals who have enjoyed the evening and contributed to making the whole a great occasion for meeting, sharing and enjoying time together.