Debutantes raise money while looking adorable

ABERDEEN NEWS — The unusual décor of the Aberdeen library hall last Friday alerted guests that this was going to be no ordinary Debutantes’ Ball for the youngsters of Kamdeboo Primary, and the event certainly did not disappoint them.

The Western theme was reflected in the outstanding original décor, with straw bales, and even a rustic jailhouse. Lana and Tanya Olivier certainly excelled themselves!

In keeping with the theme, the young Debs were dressed in cowboy (or cowgirl) outfits, most opting for jeans and a checked shirt with various authentic embellishments. Several parents also dressed according to the theme, and members of staff also entered into the spirit of the Wild West.

To the delight of all, special guest Fundiswa Jim-Wabanie, EDO from the Department of Education, and her colleague Nombasa Tshefuta, also came dressed for the occasion.

Programme Director Chris de Jager introduced all the Debutantes, and this was augmented by a slide show featuring each child individually. The first entertainment item, a dance by a group of energetic Grade 7 girls, followed.

The Debutantes had been split into three groups by age, and each group, in turn, performed a beautifully choreographed dance to traditional Country and Western music.

A group of five Grade 7 boys in striking black and white outfits, with masks, performed a most unusual dance and mime item, which held the audience captivated.

The aim of the Debutantes is of course to raise money for the school, and each Deb had to raise a minimum of R1 500. Although a few dropped out during the course of the year, the vast majority of the 35 children selected as Debutantes (and their parents!) worked extremely hard throughout the year.

This year’s Debs excelled themselves, with a combined total of R83 097.35 from all the participants. This is the most that has ever been raised, and the school is extremely grateful to all of those who worked so hard towards the goal.

First prize went to Chelsea de Vos in grade 1, a clear winner with R12 348.20. In second place was Litho Green in Grade 3 with R8 334.55, closely followed by Donnolene Frazenburg in third place with R7 064.70. Together these three raised one-third of the total - a magnificent effort!

Each child who participated received a trophy and gift bag. These were kindly sponsored by R and H Funeral Parlour, Tuin Kaffee, Karoo Butchery, Victory ticket, and the staff of the school.

After the conclusion of the formalities, many parents took the opportunity to capture memories of the occasion at some of the informal “photo booth” areas in the hall.

The Western theme was the brainchild of teacher Julia Daniels and her team, and as well as scoring high for originality, parents were also grateful for the saving in expense. The organisers explained that traditional Debs’ Balls involve buying the participants evening clothes, and many parents spend well over R1 000 for an outfit that the child will probably grow out of before they can wear it again. “Whereas all children have jeans, and checked shirts are not expensive and can be worn again," explained one teacher.