The 6th annual Russian Charity Ball took place on Saturday 14 January at the Cercle Cité in Luxembourg City, with over 270 guests attending the elaborate extravaganza.

This year’s ball, which is organised by the Russian Club of Luxembourg, supported SOS Villages d’Enfants Monde and the Podsolnuh (sunflower) Foundation. The Podsolnuh Foundation helps to combat primary immunodeficiency which threatens the lives of many children throughout Russia.

According to the club, it has donated around €230,000 to various charities over the past five years. Last year’s ball raised €75,000, or about 45% of all donations received, the group reported.

Amongst those present at this year’ edition were Luxembourg’s deputy prime minister, Étienne Schneider, and his partner, Victor Sorokin, the Russian ambassador to the grand duchy, and Aniela Bettel, mother of the Luxembourg prime minister.

Formal event

The musicians of the “Russkaia Dusha” greeted guests upon arrival with traditional folk songs, whilst Champagne and canapés were served courtesy of one of the gala’s many sponsors. The ball is a traditionally formal event and, as custom, guests were dressed in their most elegant attire. The finest silks and delicate laces were intricately sewn together to produce an array of opulent dresses with Terani Couture evening gowns a popular choice for attendees.

“I love the elegance of the dresses and the extravagance,” gushed Natalia, originally from Kiev. “It is like a fairytale.”

Eva, who is of Russian and German descent, agreed: “There are not many classical balls left in Luxembourg, so this is a unique occasion where you have the opportunity not only to dress up, but to make lucrative connections.”

Russian culture

A gastronomique banquet was served in the main ball room, whilst entertainment was provided by an assortment of talented artists from Russia, France, Kazakhstan and Luxembourg. For many attendees the children of the l’Ecole Kalinka were a particular delight, dressed in traditional costumes and kokoshnik (traditional Russian headdresses), whilst performing a classical dance. The Rythmo-Cats rhythmic gymnastics club were equally as impressive as were all the performers throughout the night.

“I really enjoy the music and the Russian culture,” explained Harry, a native Dutchman attending the event for the fifth time. “It’s a wonderful evening and so well organised.”

“The dancing is really great fun,” said Nina. “Russians really know how to have a party and celebrate.”

In addition to the banquet and entertainment, a selection of artwork was on display, some of which could be purchased during the silent auction. Guests were also able to participate in a tombola with some exceptional prizes on offer including tickets to concerts at the Philharmonic and dinner at many of Luxembourg’s most renowned restaurants.

Anastasiya Sergeeva, a harpist originally from St Petersburg, said participation in the event had one principle purpose: “For me it is all about giving to charity whilst entertaining the guests,” she smiled. “The reason I am here is for the charities and the children, that is the essence of the event for me. Giving something back to those in need.”