As Christianity swept across Rome and Europe, the church was faced with a dilemma: what to do about the pagan rituals of the newly converted? To abolish
In order to accomplish this they first had to choose an already established event occurring roughly at the same point of the year. Answer: Easter. Mardi Gras, or "Fat Tuesday," became a carnival [Italian meaning to "go without" or "removal of meat"] to celebrate the Lenten Fasting beginning on Ash Wednesday. Typically participants in the Lenten Fasting would abstain from eating meat during the forty days prior to Easter Sunday. Because of this, all of the perishable meat stores had to be excised. So, throw a big party with masks and dancing, ale and meat.
Over the years Mardi Gras, like a variety of other holidays, has made yet another transition; from pagan ritual to religious holy day to secular celebration. Parties, parades, and masquerade balls are held all across the country and throughout the world celebrating this jovial holiday.
Although the actual day of Mardi Gras has come and gone, it is still not too late to celebrate. On Saturday, March 3, 2007 we will be hosting a Mardi Gras Gala with a Group Class at 7:30 followed by the gala. Guests will enjoy dancing, hors dÕoeuvres, and professional performances by the Vita Bella Staff at 9:00 and 10:00.
For more information or to RSVP, call (614) 294-DANCE.