The Candlemas Semester in Review
Deputy Editor, Nicole Entin, reflects on the semester and provides a rundown of 2022's greatest events so far.
Each event that graced the St Andrews social scene in the Candlemas semester brought something unique and exciting to its attendees. From glamourous balls to society socials, there were a large range of events with something for every kind of person looking for a good night out, a relaxing afternoon, and everything in between. With the semester soon drawing to a close, here is The Saint’s rundown of noteworthy events which will certainly be the subject of our revision-week reminisces.
On the Rocks Festival: The On the Rocks Festival proved to be a stellar success with a variety of arts-centred events. These included a launch party at Lupo’s, workshops in candle-making, linocut prints, and rock painting, an immersive concert experience by the Other Guys, a cocktail masterclass, St Andrews Strictly Come Dancing hosted by BALLADS, and a wide variety of theatre performances including plays and musicals written by students. My personal favourite event was the nostalgic lawn party in the Botanic Gardens featuring live music and a coffee stand, as well as watercolour paints and sketchbooks.
Glitterball: Returning at the end of March after a Covid-imposed hiatus since 2020, the popular and inclusive ball hosted by Saints LGBT+ was a success which drew crowds to watch performances by national drag talent including RuPaul’s Drag Race UK season three finalist Ella Vaday and acclaimed Scottish drag artist and St Andrews alum Rujazzle. Other performances included student drag artists Vil and Nimuë, members of the Blue Angels dance team, and Jazzworks, whilst the open dress code brought out some of the most iconic ball looks of this semester.
Dog Cuddling in the Union with Dog Walking Society: Adding to their repertoire of weekend dog walks, Dog Cuddling in the Union hosted by the Dog Walking Society deserves the prize for best weekly event to improve your mental health. Two hours of spending quality time with a bevy of unconditionally loving and absolutely adorable pups has certainly been the highlight of my Tuesday afternoons, and I think it should be yours too.
CATWALK 2022 – UNCOVER: With the recent news that CATWALK raised over £15,000 for charities including the International Justice Mission, Shelter Scotland, and Love Oliver, this non-profit fashion show has plenty to celebrate. CATWALK’s 2022 show, UNCOVER, truly promoted inclusivity and accessibility while also displaying a fantastic range of clothes from high street brands to university alumni designers such as Noé Dresses by Noémie Jouas, as well as a showcase of sustainable style with models wearing outfits sourced from local charity shops.
BALLADS x Soirée Regency Tea Dance: If you had ever wanted to feel like a character in a Jane Austen novel or an episode of Bridgerton, the collaboration between BALLADS and Soirée was certainly the ideal place to live out all your Regency dreams. Beginning with a delicious afternoon tea catered by Cottage Kitchen, and finishing with a wide variety of ballroom dances ranging from a classical waltz to a not-quite-nineteenth century jive, the Regency Tea Dance was both fun and accessible for anyone regardless of their dancing ability.
Jazz Nights with Jazzworks: The surge of popularity for Jazzworks has led to their usual Thursday night Main Bar jams getting a location upgrade to the StAge in 601, and we can’t think of a more well-deserved accolade for this iconic groovy union staple. There are few things more enjoyable than the success of finding a seat in this perpetually busy space! Bringing the smooth and funky sounds of jazz to your mid-week night out, and often joined by dancers from the Swing Dance Society, we can’t wait to hear more from the band when they return next year.