It began with a dramatic rendition of 'Fanfare for the Common Man' by Aaron Copland, which showcased the National Theatre's new sound system to perfection. Gary Hovey, who coordinated the project, spoke about the history of the National Theatre, the sound system project and thanked the many people who were involved, both financially and in kind. Ian Coillet from the Capital Region Area Consultative Committee also spoke about his involvement as did Jill McLeod, who was instrumental in getting the funding applications done. Jill then cut the ribbon, officially opening the new sound system. Then it was time for the band, the Sly Dogs, to take to the stage and play some great rock and roll music for everyone to dance to. The Sly Dogs kindly donated their time and talents for the evening.

There was a wonderful array of masks worn by the guests, ranging from feathers and sequins to fur and electrical tape! The 'Belle of the Ball' was won by Lara Hewitt, Naomi Royds won the lucky door prize, Brad Hewitt won the raffle, Damien Hart won Best homemade mask (for his creation with electrical tape), Danny King won the Best outfit (the wig was a great disguise), and John Weeks won the Best mask - male.

About 120 guests danced the night away to The Sly Dogs, whose music sounded great through the National Theatre's new sound system. The night raised over $5000 for the Preschool. This is a huge boost to the Preschool's financial situation and will have a very positive effect on the Preschool's operations for this year. The Preschool committee and the Preschool families would like to thank the following for their contributions toward such a successful evening: The National Theatre committee; The Sly Dogs; Liz Lamb; The Anglican Church; Bryce McMurtrie; The Eureka Pizzeria; Preschool parents; grandparents and staff; Steve Whan; Sarah Gordon and Antonia Throsby; The Saddle Club; Richard Murray Pottery; Landmark Daniel Walker; Norma Flack; 'Cakes by Linda Bunn'; Judy Knowles; The Country Workbox; Wallace meets Gorman; Braidwood Outdoors; Darren Rowley Electrics; Dave Parsons; Stephen Hockey; Kate Stevens and Surya Bajrachaya.

During the evening a silent auction was held and also a regular auction with Bryce McMurtrie as auctioneer. The Preschool committee were overjoyed at the generous response from the community for the items donated and the spirited bidding in the auctions. Dancing continued into the wee small hours and a great night was had by all.

Don't forget that the Preschool's next fundraising event will be the Second Trivia night, at Gundillion Hall on August 15th.