Colorful prom planned for local senior crowd

KALAMAZOO, Mich.--Sparks will fly at Western Michigan University when area senior citizens come to campus and rekindle memories of the exciting ballroom dances held in days gone by.

The event, WMU's 31st annual Senior Prom, is set for Thursday, March 28, in the Bernhard Center's East Ballroom. The theme for 2019, "Celebrate," will feature red, white and blue accent colors.

Senior Prom is an elegant and nostalgic evening of dancing and entertainment that bridges the generations between WMU students and Kalamazoo-area senior citizens. No reservations are necessary to attend this semiformal event, which is free and open to the public.

The prom includes live Big Band music, swing and ballroom dancing, a photo booth, a dance contest, games and raffle prizes. Refreshments and hors d'oeuvres will be served.

The doors will open at 4:30 p.m. Bingo will start at 5 p.m. and end at 7 p.m. while casino games will start at 6 p.m. and end at 8:30 p.m. Dancing is on the docket from 7 to 10 p.m. Free parking will be available near the Bernhard Center in Parking Ramp No. 1. Go online for campus maps and directions to WMU .

Senior Prom

The Senior Prom began in 1988 as a way for older WMU alumni and area residents to share an evening of fun and reminisce with current students. Music is provided by the Otsego Jazz Ensemble.

The event is organized by staff members in the Ernest Burnham-Smith Burnham residence halls and WMU Apartments office, with the help of volunteers. Financial assistance is provided by several WMU organizations, including the Residence Housing Association, various residence hall leadership councils and the Residence Life office.

For general prom information, call Residence Life at (269) 387-4735. Specific questions may be directed via email to that office's Bryan Austin at bryan.austin@wmich.edu.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.