Odd pairing succeeds: Toga Fondue Rave a hit

by Kelly Sullivan

Advertisements for the Toga Fondue Rave raised many eyebrows around campus. After a strong turnout last Friday, however, skeptics may be forced to reconsider their judgments.

Anticipating the event, sophomore Allie Dougharty, co-convener of the Student Activities Board (SAB) stated the previous Thursday, “At the beginning of the semester we had this planning meeting, and a bunch of us [sophomore Abe Shklar, senior Brittany Goh, junior Jeremy Reed, and Dougharty] came up with the idea. At first we thought it would just be funny, but then we thought we should actually do it. It’s slightly ironic to use the image of toga at an official Earlham party. ”

Raves are a popular event here. The rave last semester drew nearly 300 people. This time around, SAB expected a slightly smaller turnout because it was held indoors. Despite the small venue, SAB estimated that between 150 and 200 students attended the event. Most chose to abstain from togas, but actively participated in the fondue eating, finishing the chocolate supplied for 250 students. Some wished to see cheese fondue included on the menu.

The togas also caused slight controversy among some students. Senior August Chiarella said, “I will not be wearing a toga, but I will be fondue-ing. In fact, the toga reminds me of the Greek systems at other colleges, which I reject. I came to Earlham because of the lack of this system, so yeah, I’m not wearing a f***ing toga,” to which he added, “anarchy forever.” It appears, however, that most chose not to wear togas because of the cold or a lack of sheets. SAB maintains that the intent of the toga was meant to be ironic, not exclusive. They estimate that less than 50 students attempted to wear togas.

The rave aspect of the event caused no upset. It is on its way to becoming a much-loved tradition. When asked to speculate why the rave was popular at our school, Shklar, co-convener of SAB said, “Well, everyone here is really bad at dancing and house music is kind of easy to just groove with, so I think that adds to the appeal of raves.” If the dancing at the rave was any indication, Shklar offers an astute analysis.

The next SAB rave will be held on April 20, with hopes of being outdoors once again.