Dancing into the Holidays at the Middleburg Community Center

Story by Shayda Windle

For the past 32 years, the Middleburg Community Center has had the privilege of hosting an annual holiday ball to formally recognize and thank the donors whose continued generosity sustains its mission year after year. This year’s celebration began with a festive cocktail reception in the tented courtyard in front of the Center, where guests were welcomed by Melissa Watson, radiant in a custom “Champagne dress.” The one-of-a-kind creation featured a custom-built metal frame on wheels — designed by her brother, Michael Stump of Tip Top Tap Truck. The innovative design can hold more than 100 Champagne flutes and wine glasses and set a celebratory tone from the moment guests arrived.

Following cocktails, guests were escorted into the ballroom for the first course of the evening while enjoying a captivating performance by students from the Lasley Centre, who presented scenes from “Swan Lake.” Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, the performance left the audience transfixed. The dancers’ precision and artistry were exceptional, with admiration for Lilly Kinsley, who performed the demanding dual role of the pure White Swan Queen, and Odile, the deceptive Black Swan — widely regarded as one of the most challenging roles in classical ballet.

The dancers’ talent was unmistakable, refined through summer training with the American Ballet Theatre and the Royal Ballet. Approximately 155 guests attended the evening.

“This event is our way of saying thank you to the donors who believe so deeply in the Middleburg Community Center and the role it plays in bringing people together,” said Elizabeth Rose, director of development. “Their support allows us to continue offering meaningful, accessible programming for our community.”

Following the performance, guests enjoyed an elegant buffet dinner prepared by Savoir Fare, featuring braised short ribs, Russian potatoes, layered creamy potatoes with sour cream, roasted chicken in balsamic cranberry sauce with rosemary, jeweled rice pilaf, and roasted tri-colored carrots finished with honey and hazelnuts. As red and white wine flowed, the nine-piece Bachelor Boys band took the stage, filling the ballroom with nostalgic favorites and keeping the dance floor lively throughout the evening.

“The holiday ball has become a cherished tradition,” shared Lynn Wiley, president of the board. “It’s a wonderful reminder of how special this community is and how much good can be accomplished when people come together in support of it.”

The evening was a resounding success. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of its donors, the Middleburg Community Center raised $90,675 in support of its mission. Established in 1948, the Middleburg Community Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to serving the surrounding communities through a wide range of accessible and elevated events, made possible through partnerships with local nonprofits, organizations, merchants, and vendors. Visit middleburgcenter.org to learn more. ML

Posted on: January 8, 2026