Uni Hall Ball Goes Full Moulin Rouge!

Sarannya Nanda

A chill February wind curled down St. Leonards Road the evening of the University Hall Ball, carrying with it the kind of restless electricity that only a themed black-tie night in St Andrews can conjure. As I made my way toward the entrance of Kinkell Byre, the puddles on the cobblestones shimmered like sequins under lamplight, reflecting flashes of red feathers and satin bow ties. It felt, for a moment, as if the town itself had slipped into character, our very own Scottish Moulin Rouge. Though the Parisian skyline was missing, every bit of the city’s mischief and glamour was present. And as Nicole Kidman’s Satine might have put it, this was one of those nights when a student could let black tie flirt with corsetry, velvet gloves, or a glittered hat and no one would bat an eye. If ever there were an evening to lean unapologetically into theatrical excess, this was certainly it.  

Upon arrival, guests who came early enjoyed a complimentary glass of prosecco. The rustic venue, with its brick walls and fairy lights, perfectly complemented the Moulin Rouge-inspired aesthetic. The University Hall committee had clearly paid meticulous attention to every detail, something the Warden, Joshua T. Gumbley, highlighted when he remarked: “I think the committee did an excellent job. Hosting 500 residents for the Ball is no small feat, and choosing the right venue played a major role in its success. I give the committee full credit for their hard work and dedication.” Outside, the Wee Green food truck served hot, comforting meals that were perfect for warming up on a brisk winter night. Priced at £8–£10 per item, the food offered good value for a snack and provided a break from socialising. 

Fairy lights twinkle in the Byre. Photo Credits: Sarannya Nanda

Inside the venue, the first wave of energy came from Bahookie, performing for the third year in a row. Their unique rock-ceilidh music made the crowd surge into movement, pulling even the most hesitant dancers onto the floor. Within minutes, couples were spinning, lines were forming and reforming, and shoes were being abandoned. Additionally, the student-led band Since Juniper added a fresh touch before BPM StA turned the energy up with pulsating lights. Elsewhere, students posed for photos under the decorated arch with props in hand.  

Meanwhile, a dedicated tarot corner offered a slower Montmartre-style escape. The soft shuffle of cards and the low murmur of predictions brought a different flavour of theatre into the Ball. It should be noted that the tickets cost £25 for members and £30 for non-members, and additional expenses for drinks, food, and the cloakroom meant budgeting beyond the initial price. However, immersive touches such as the tarot reader made every pound feel worth it. 

Guests dance to Bahookie’s Ceilidh. Photo Credits: Sarannya Nanda 

As the night unfolded, the committee members could be spotted throughout the venue quietly taking in what they had pulled off. For Cesca Glanville, the evening’s success came down to the preparation behind it as she noted that a “strong marketing campaign” was key to creating what she genuinely felt was “one of the best Hall Balls we’ve ever had.” From the corner of the stage, the photographer 

Holly Lumsden, camera still in hand after hours of capturing faces, spoke fondly of the guests, remarking that everyone had been “so kind and accommodating”. The sense of community spirit was echoed by Abby O’Brien, who reflected on how wonderful it was to see “everyone come together to celebrate”. At the heart of it all stood Elizabeth Blakeslee, the driving force behind the evening. She is already looking forward to next year, a feeling that seemed to linger as the night wound down.  

Photos under the decorated arch. Photo Credits: Sarannya Nanda 

When I decided to finally go back to St Andrews, I couldn’t help but overhear snippets of conversation on the coach. Groups of students laughed over mishaps on the dance floor and all the memories that seemed to follow everyone home. One remarked that it was “the best night of the semester so far”, a sentiment that, as a resident of the hall, I might be biased in agreeing with. In my opinion, it’s hard to imagine a better way to spend a February night on the Fife coast. The committee’s commitment shone through every corner of the Byre, making it a night that will be remembered long after the last sequins have been swept away.