Ples 2015

Written by Jadon

 Ples is the Czech word for “ball,” and at its most basic level, it is the Czech equivalent of Prom—though much more structured and with an emphasis on honoring graduating students. For instance, students invite their families and friends, rather than a date; tickets cost about $10; and various scheduled events for and performances by students occur throughout the evening.

All the teachers are also formally invited by the students, and Brittany and I were excited to go. Excitement quickly mingled with nervousness, however, when we learned that both of us would be part of the performances…dancing a waltz, each with one of our graduating students. Fortunately, the Wednesday before Ples (Friday), time was set aside for dance practice in the gym. I am very lucky to have had such a wonderful and gracious teacher in my dance partner, because I would be lying if I told you I was better than a bad “waltzer.”

As she taught me the steps, promising it was fine when I stepped on her feet, I found that I was becoming less worried about being embarrassed and more worried about her being embarrassed at her graduation ball in front of her family and friends. This desire to be an (at least) adequate dance partner led to, that’s right, dance practice by myself in our living room, my empty office, and—I will admit—the more spacious classrooms after my students had left…

And Friday came; not without a few hiccups, but with much better prepared feet since Wednesday morning.

The first event of the evening was a choreographed ballroom dance by sixteen of our students, including my dance partner. Then all the 1^st year students (the freshmen) marched onto the dance floor, making a circle around each of their respective class teachers (there are five classes for each grade level at our school). To honor the 1^st years and welcome them to the school, a few words where said, and the class teachers pinned ribbons on each of their students. Pictures ensued, and the 1^st years marched out.

The Ballroom Dancers

 Then came the 4^th years (the seniors), but they did not just march onto the dance floor. One class entered dragging their class teacher to his execution, though he was spared long enough to take a big group selfie. Another entered to a synchronized walking lightshow. Another came on in cardboard engines and train cars, with their class teacher in a conductor’s hat, brandishing a whistle. After some ceremony, including some letters to the class teachers from the students (we think); each of the 4^th years was presented with sash signifying their new honored status. More pictures followed, as did parachutes.

The parachutes where quickly stretched across the five circles, and as the cheering rose and the colorful chutes moved around the room, parents, teachers, and friends rained money down on the five classes. At one point an entire wallet with credit cards and a cell phone fell past our balcony, though on accident. But my favorite part was the few students from each class elected to furiously sweep the floors for excess change, and try to keep up with their ever moving class parachute—a job much more difficult than it sounds, especially with the following classes sweepers lurking.

A couple of the parachutes ready to catch the money

 And then it was time for the dance.

The 4^th years all moved to the edge of the ballroom floor, and we lucky few moved into position.

I’m pretty sure it wasn’t effortless and graceful, but I didn’t miss any steps. Well, except after our impromptu spin—I wasn’t good enough to even start thinking about a spin on Wednesday, and I believe the conversation during the dance on Friday went something like “Did you practice?” “A lot.” “Maybe, in a minute we could try a spin.” “Uh, (worried look on my face), how does it work.” “Like this.” And there it was.

And then the dance was over. It turns out three minutes isn’t really that long. I should also note, Brittany’s waltz had lots of spins, and I’m certain she looked much better than I did.

 

Me waltzing with Zuzana

Brittany getting ready to waltz with Michal

Anyway, after the student-teacher dance, the students dance with members of their families, and after that, the dance floor opens up to everyone, though the dancing is still ballroom based—the more Prom-like dancing is saved for the less showy after-party.

Finally, toward the end of the evening, it was time for “Midnight Surprise,” which is some kind of surprise performance by each of the five 4^th year classes. Complete with choreographed dance routines to popular songs, costume changes, and famous movie scene recreations, each of the surprises was followed by massive applause and cheering.

And that pretty much wrapped up the night. With the “Midnight Surprise” the atmosphere relaxed; families and teachers started their journeys home and students stayed to celebrate with friends and classmates. Well, wrapped up the first half. There was a big after-party planned at a different venue; but for us, we were heading home: more culturally informed, better ballroom dancers, and, despite our earlier nervousness, excited for next year’s Ples.

Praises:

- An enjoyable evening at Ples!

- We have officially finished our first semester (the semester ends in January here, not December) and submitted all our grades on time!

Prayer Requests:

- Drama Club. We're finished with the read throughs, so this week starts the real work of blocking scenes & memorizing lines

- Visa issues. We have, again, run into some snags with our visa. We will give a larger update when we know more details, but prayers for wisdom in decision making & peace with results.