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 1st 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 1st 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 1st years marched out.
![]() |
The Ballroom Dancers |
Then came
the 4th 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 4th 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 4th
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.
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 4th 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.