Viennese Ball 2012
On May 19, the 10th edition of the Viennese Ball was hosted in Moscow's Manezh Exhibition Hall near Red Square.
Albina Starkova / For MT
The charity event, which raises money to support several children's organizations, has been held annually in Moscow since 2003.
Albina Starkova / For MT
The 2012 ball marked the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Borodino and was dedicated to the heroes of the Patriotic War of 1812 fought against the Napoleonic Empire.
Albina Starkova / For MT
Guests were advised to wear historic costumes going back to the reign of Tsar Alexander I, who reigned over Russia from 1801 to 1825.
Albina Starkova / For MT
The ball was opened by 120 pairs of debutants, the girls wearing white dresses and the young men in black tuxedos.
Albina Starkova / For MT
The ball featured a symphony orchestra and several jazz bands that performed Mozart, Strauss, along with more modern pieces. The dancing was just as varied and included the waltz, foxtrot, jive, rumba, tango, and more.
Albina Starkova / For MT
The ball was attended by Austrian Ambassador to Russia Morgot Klestil-Loeffler, Russian Ambassador to Austria Sergei Nechayev, Federal Minister of Economics of Austria Reinhold Mitterlehner, Vienna Mayor Michael Häupl, and President of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber Christoph Leitl.
Albina Starkova / For MT
The ball lasted until 5 a.m. on May 20.
Albina Starkova / For MT
Over 2,000 guests attended the ball, according to organizers.
Albina Starkova / For MT