Naperville Central’s winter dance, has been rebranded as “Glow Dance” and will feature several new additions. The dance will take place on Saturday, Feb. 1 from 7 to 10 p.m. in Central’s cafeteria.
Previously known as Winter Formal, Senior Class Council has shifted away from the traditional name and format in order to attract a larger audience, according to the organizers.
Last year, the dance drew a record low attendance of fewer than 500 students, a sharp decline from previous years. This lack of participation resulted in a financial loss of between $200 and $300 dollars for SCC — a stark contrast from its intention as a fundraiser.
“Our goal is to try to either break even or make any kind of profit off of this event so that we can take that money and push it back forward into our senior gift, as well as other events,” said Bavya Chowdavarapu, treasurer of SCC.
SCC has worked to incorporate feedback from students about what they want in a school dance. By lowering the prices of tickets, making a less formal dress recommendation, and trying to create a more energetic atmosphere, SCC hopes to make the dance appealing to a broader group of students.
“We are hoping just to increase attendance and give people a fun event in winter, because we don’t always have that many fun things during the school year at that time,” said Stacy Cunningham, a SCC sponsor.
In past years, students have followed a formal dress code, often wearing floor-length dresses and other elegant attire. For the Glow Dance, attire is encouraged to be semi-formal, resembling homecoming outfits and shorter dresses. Students are also encouraged to embrace the neon theme by wearing bright colors and whites that will glow under the black lights.
“We want it to be more of a fun atmosphere,” said Jeromy Bentley, a SCC sponsor. “Not to actually be a super formal event — that’s for prom.”
The Glow Dance will feature a DJ, glow-in-the-dark and neon decorations, and photos. Tickets are $15. This year, SCC has created a website for students to purchase their tickets, but they are also available for purchase at the door for $20.