Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/742965
30 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2016 J ubilee … The Return marks the start of the WAC's 87th year. We're rolling out the red carpet on Friday, December 2, for a fabulous frenzy of food, friends, dancing, and entertainment—all steeped in the glamour of film. Hollywood-inspired rooms will have attendees feeling like filmmaking elite. Revel in the flash of paparazzi as you enter the lobby on the red carpet. Try your hand at the always- popular Crystal Casino, indulge in decadent food and drinks, and step into a life of fame … if only for a night. "Jubilee has romance, intrigue, and a little drama," says party planner and Vice President Club Programs Melissa Borders. "It's a special day unlike any other." Spearheading Jubilee since 1985, Melissa says the party has an intrinsic appeal that brings members back year after year. "The night is steeped in history and tradition," she says. "Members feel the pull to Jubilee because it's an opportunity to mark a milestone for the Club we all love." For many members, Jubilee is the embodiment of a community they have belonged to for years. For others, it's a more thorough introduction to the Club. Take new member Sophie Staskiewicz. She and boyfriend Zachary Pryde moved to Seattle from New York City earlier this year. "We wanted a lifestyle change, so we very deliberately chose Seattle as our destination," Sophie says. "When we joined the WAC we fell right into place with a social circle of people that are now some of our best friends." A Jubilee rookie, Sophie has heard nothing but praise for the Club's biggest party of the year. "Everyone says it's a must-do—that the level of service, attention, and beautiful decoration is unparalleled," she says. LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION With multiple bands, performers, dance floors, themed rooms, and amazing food and drink throughout the Clubhouse's first three floors, the WAC transforms on a grand scale for Jubilee night. This year, members can enjoy the ultimate David Bowie tribute by BowieVision. The band will bring Bowie-inspired showmanship with deft sounds, penetrating stage presence, and stunning lighting effects, all while hitting the high points of Bowie's epic career. Jazz tunes and horns will float through the early party, with Hollywood Little Big Band and Darren Motamedy joining the scene. As the night continues, rock will take over, including the chart-topping covers of the Social Network, which will get the party moving with hits from the likes of Bruno Mars, Maroon 5, and Meghan Trainor. Throughout the party, roving performers will surprise at every turn. Hayes Mott, a lifelong WAC member and a close friend of Sophie's, is excited for what will be her first Jubilee. "I used to beg my parents to work out so I could play in the WAC," says Hayes, who grew up attending Father Daughter Banquets and playing in WeeWACs. Hayes left Seattle nine years ago for college in upstate New York, then New York City, before returning to her roots. Now that she's back, she looks forward to experiencing the Club in a new light. "I can't miss an opportunity to dress up, and I can't miss an opportunity to celebrate the WAC," she says. Jubilee exemplifies the essence of the WAC, a place where social and professional circles mingle and relationships continue Jubilee has romance, intrigue, and a little drama. It's a special day unlike any other." "