1990 Art Deco Ball

Over 200 ADSW members and guests visited "The Top Hat Club," a tribute to Deco era nightclubs, the Eighth Annual Art Deco Ball on the evening of November 17, 1990.

The dance floor was packed all evening as Vocalist Rosie Pink conducted the Royal Cocoanuts. The excitement grew to a frenzy when Doc Scantlin stopped by to conduct a set. A shimmering skyline of Deco skyscrapers (including some Washington area landmarks) provided a stunning backdrop for the band. Smaller illuminated Deco buildings graced cocktail and dinner tables as centerpieces. The sets were created by Jazz Designs of Irvington, New York.

In the lobby, a glowing neon sign with the Top Hat Club logo welcomed each new arrival (courtesy of Neon & Cathode Systems of Gaithersburg, Maryland). Phillumenist Bill Retskin of Alexandria, Virginia, displayed a few hundred matchcovers from Deco era nightclubs, a small sample of the 125,000 matchcovers in his collection. Nearby, artist Clay Huffman, also of Alexandria, Virginia, displayed his vibrant multicolored serigraphs, most of area roadside architecture.

The evening was highlighted by some special events: the 1990 ADSW preservation awards, the dance contest, prizes for the best vintage formal wear, a midnight breakfast, and the incredible, unforgettable conga line.

See our photo gallery for more ball photos. If you can contribute a photo or story about this event, please contact us.

All who enjoyed the evening thank the many volunteers who made this ball possible!