Sydneysiders are preparing for an unforgettable night of 'retro glam', magic and lion dancing at The Dragon Ball to welcome in the Lunar New Year.
On Saturday 8 February, glitz and glamour will set the scene at The Star, as glammed-up dancers swing to the sounds of big band The Velvet Set for the ball that is a key event in the City of Sydney’s Chinese New Year festival. Magicians and lion dancers will also work their way through the crowd on this night like no other on Sydney's social calendar.
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Lord Mayor Clover Moore said The Dragon Ball has been a social highlight in the Sydney calendar from as far back as the 30s.
“The Dragon Ball was about bringing the Chinese and Australian communities together to enjoy food, dancing and drinks for a night people wouldn’t miss for the world,” the Lord Mayor said. “There is no better time than Chinese New Year to reinvigorate this amazing event and celebrate the year ahead with a night of fun and top quality entertainment with friends and partners.”
Sydney’s Dragon Ball was first held in 1938 in the historic Trocadero and moved to the Chevron Hotel, Kings Cross some years later. After a 40 year hiatus it moved to Sydney Town Hall in 2013. It will be held at The Star for the first time this year.
Its purpose extended beyond a social one, as young debutantes rehearsed for months before they were officially presented to the Chinese Consul General, with their families looking on.
The event was also a major charity fundraiser, known as the Dragon Festival Princess Contest, with contestants competing to raise money for a chosen charity in the lead-up to the night.
When: Saturday, 8 February
Time: 7.30pm - midnight
Where: The Star, 80 Pyrmont St, Pyrmont
Cost: Tickets $72 including drink on arrival, food and entertainment
