Imagine stepping into a time machine and landing in the midst of a Jane Austen novel—gowns swirling, music playing, and laughter echoing through a grand ballroom. But here’s where it gets fascinating: this wasn’t 19th-century England; it was a church gymnasium in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, celebrating Jane Austen’s 250th birthday with a Regency-era ball. And this is the part most people miss—modern enthusiasts, decked out in period attire, are keeping her legacy alive in the most delightful way.
The Chicago area was buzzing with Austen-inspired events this week, from trivia nights at local bookstores (like this one: Jane Austen Trivia Night) to film screenings at libraries (Chicago Public Library Events). Yet, it was the Chicagoland English Country Dance group’s ball that truly captured the spirit of Austen’s world. Founded by Mady Newfield and Tammy Bretscher nearly two decades ago, this group has been bringing Regency-era dances to life, complete with live music, historical snacks, and dancers of all ages.
But here’s where it gets controversial: while the Regency era restricted dancing to those under 35, today’s enthusiasts—many well over that age—are defying conventions to keep the tradition alive. ‘We still intend to be dancing as long as possible,’ Newfield declared, challenging the notion that such activities are reserved for the young. This raises a thought-provoking question: Are we too quick to dismiss traditions as outdated, or can they be reimagined for modern times? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
The ball itself was a sight to behold. At 7 p.m. on Saturday, about 40 dancers gathered in their best Regency attire—some in elaborate plumed headpieces, others in simple empire-waist dresses crafted from YouTube tutorials. A string quartet played classics like ‘La Boulangere’ and ‘The Physical Snob,’ while dancers glided across the creaky wood floor in intricate patterns. Unlike the Meryton ball in Pride and Prejudice, where young ladies often lacked partners, this event was inclusive. Friends danced with friends, strangers paired up regardless of gender, and there wasn’t a disapproving Mr. Darcy in sight.
During a break for tea and refreshments, attendees indulged in historical treats like orange cheesecakes and rout cakes—though a modern Mr. Collins might have missed his boiled potatoes (Mr. Collins’ Boiled Potatoes). Maribeth van Loon, snacking on punch and scones with her husband, Daniel, summed it up perfectly: ‘Jane Austen’s ability to highlight hypocrisy and injustice with humor and warmth is why her work resonates on so many levels.’
Born on December 16, 1775, in Steventon, England, Austen wrote six full-length novels—including Persuasion and Emma—and several shorter works. Yet, she achieved little fame during her lifetime, publishing her first novel, Sense and Sensibility, under the pseudonym ‘A Lady.’ Fast forward to today, and Pride and Prejudice has sold over 20 million copies worldwide, inspiring adaptations from BBC miniseries to Clueless and even Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: Austen’s exploration of gender and class restrictions remains strikingly relevant. As attendee Shafinaz Ahmed pointed out, ‘Women are still constricted by societal norms, just as they were in Austen’s time. It’s a tale as old as time.’
As a self-proclaimed Austen superfan—and occasional performer with Improvised Jane Austen (Improvised Jane Austen)—I can attest to the enduring appeal of her wit, charming characters, and frank social commentary. Austen’s world may be rooted in the Regency era, but her insights into love, ambition, and societal constraints continue to captivate readers and dancers alike. So, the next time you hear ‘Pride and Prejudice,’ don’t just think of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet—think of a gymnasium in Glen Ellyn, where Austen’s spirit lives on, one dance at a time. What do you think? Is Austen’s work still relevant today, or is it a relic of the past? Share your thoughts below!
