Powerball 11: Big Crowds, Psychics, Unique Dresses and a Whole Lot of Fun

Cynthia Cheng

The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery‘s annual fundraiser, The Power Ball was a raging success.  Held on May 28^th at its own premises at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre, the event was its eleventh and is perhaps one of Toronto’s most popular events that predominantly targets the young, professional crowds.  The theme for 2009 was “IT’S ONE LOUDER,” and featured roller derby girls, a psychic, smashed up cars from the 1970s and more.  In fact, much of the party had a 1970s vibe to it. There was even the chance for guests to have their pictures taken while wearing a plastic ”bum”/”behind”/”butt”/whatever you want to call it (and have underwear thrown at you while the photo was being taken).    The party also included an RV, a truck, as well a hot tub, blow-up guitars and much, much more.  It was, after all, a fundraiser for a contemporary art gallery.

The event was very well-attended.  The first thing I noticed when I arrived was how busy the venue was.  Guests came in a variety of different looks as the theme “IT’S ONE LOUDER” has many different interpretations.  Jen McNeely of the website, She Does The City, had perhaps what was the most interesting outfit – a President’s Choice bag normally used for outdoor waste.  Personally, I didn’t think the dress looked all that comfortable (according to Jen, she had some trouble getting in and out of the cab).  Another person with an interesting outfit was Ariel, who dressed like a late 19th century burlesque performer.  The event also had some celebrity guests, including Carlo Rota (Yasser on Little Mosque on the Prairie) and fellow CBC colleague, Erin Karpluk (Erica from Being Erica). 

Catering for the event was provided by places such as Mark McEwan’s North 44 Caters, Oyster Boy and McCain.  There was even a roasted pig.  Music was provided by DJs Ray Gillespie, Will Munro and Derek Mainella.  There were also live performers.

The one issue I had with the event is that it was very difficult to navigate the venue at certain points due to the crowd.  While the entrances were fine, some of the larger rooms, especially near the stage, was impossible to get through.  Perhaps this is something to look at for next year.