The grandeur and opulence of the court of Louis XIV comes to life at Opera Ball 2004 Saturday, October 23 when the concert hall of the Fairmont Royal York Hotel is transformed into the magnificent ballroom of the palace at Versailles. Bal de Versailles, presented by the Canadian Opera Volunteer Committee (COVC), evokes the pageantry and splendour of the Sun King’s magnificent 17^th century court in an atmosphere of glitter, theatricality and luxuriousness.

The evening begins with a cocktail reception at 6:00 p.m. amid a lush depiction of the gardens of Versailles, followed at 7:00 p.m. by a five-course gourmet dinner set in a dramatic representation of the king’s ballroom. "People attending the ball will have the feeling of being transported to the court of Louis XIV," explains Lida Gadacz, Opera Ball 2004 committee coordinator. "Guests will gather in the elegance and beauty of the gardens of Versailles and then dine in the rococo splendour of the ballroom."

During the evening, guests will dance to the exciting rhythms of the Starz Band with vocalist Liberty Silver. The live auction features such tantalizing items as trips to Italy and France, a Caribbean cruise, furs, and a diamond ring valued at more than $10,000. Well-known television personality Alicia Kay is emcee.

The Opera Ball is the major fundraising event of the COVC and all Ball proceeds go directly to the Canadian Opera Company. As COVC president Merle Gobin says: "I believe that Opera Ball 2004 will be one of the most exciting Balls Toronto has seen in years, not only because of its rich historical theme and gorgeous décor, but also because it launches the lead-up to the opening of the new opera house in 2006. The funds we raise go totally to the Canadian Opera Company and we are excited to be playing a part in the realization of our long awaited dream of our very own opera house for Toronto."