Let's Have a Ball

It was blue the first year, then a handful of other colors. But after a three year hiatus, the Asheville Area Arts Council is reintroducing it’s annual colored ball fund-raiser on Saturday, August 25.And this year, attendees will be painting the town turquoise.

More than a party, The Turquoise Ball is a showcase for emerging local talent. This year’s party features music by experimental trip-hop duo Paper Tiger, performances by the Eternity Urban Dance Troop and the Aerial Space Cadets, as well as visual art from the  Fine Arts League of the Carolinas and turquoise fashions from a host of regional style-makers.

“When people think of art in Asheville, they think of galleries, museums, craft,” says Graham Hackett, interim director of the AAAC. “We’re trying to bring to light the full spectrum of artists here.”

The gala takes a “hub-and-spokes” approach this year, with a handful of small venues offering before- and after-parties for the full-tilt celebration at The Orange Peel. And it’s not too late to purchase a $25 ticket ($50 for VIP with access to Pulp, the Peel’s downstairs lounge), and don your most fabulous turquoise duds or costume. Tickets are available at The Orange Peel box office and online at www.theorangepeel.net. The party starts at 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.ashevillearts.com.