This event supported by
the Duke’s Sponsor:
Dearest Music-Loving Reader,
It has come to this author’s most delighted attention that the social engagement of the season is soon upon us…
Polish your dancing shoes, don your finest attire, and prepare to be swept into a night of elegance and romance… and keep symphony music alive for generations to come!
On Saturday, October 11, the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra invites you to our Diamond Regency Ball Fundraiser, a celebration of our 75th Anniversary. Inspired by the Regency-era splendor of the popular Netflix series, Bridgerton, this is sure to be the most dazzling event of the season—where music, laughter, and dancing fill the evening.
A most elegant affair is to be hosted in celebration of the Symphony’s Diamond Anniversary—a glittering 75 years of music, community, and passion. On this most anticipated evening, all eyes shall turn to the presentation of this season’s eight Diamond candidates, culminating in the crowning of the Diamond of the Season. The chosen individual shall open the dance floor with the Symphony’s most honorable guest, Sir Matthew Aubin, esteemed conductor and celebrated figure of the evening, or Her Royal Highness, the Queen!)
Guests are most heartily encouraged to arrive in Regency-era attire, though modern interpretations worthy of the ton are equally welcome.
TICKETS
SEE DETAILS BELOW
FOR ALL TICKET EXPERIENCES
RSVP by September 7!
Tickets include a catered dinner.
SAT. OCTOBER 11, 2025
6 PM Doors Open
5 PM Early Access
The Aria at the Whitcomb
509 Ship Street, St. Joseph, MI
$300
*Prior to purchase, Diamond Candidate Ticket Buyers should be aware of Candidate requirements.
✔ Group dance instruction
✔ Private photo shoot
✔ Silhouette portrait
✔ Queen’s presentation ceremony
✔ Early entry and VIP Cocktail Hour
✔ Event ticket for ‘plus one’
✔ Dinner for self + guest
$200 | $1,600 table
Member of the Ton benefits, PLUS
✔ Early entry with VIP Cocktail Hour
✔ One (1) Complimentary Drink Ticket
✔ Free Dance Lesson
✔ Preferred Seating
✔ Title of nobility
Please call to arrange table for 8 VIPs
Member of the Ton
$150
✔ One (1) Dinner Selection
✔ Access live auction
✔ Enjoy courtly entertainment
✔ Witness presentation of this season’s Diamond.
Table for 8 Members
$1,200
✔ Admission for eight (8) guests
✔ Guarantee party seated together
✔ Eight (8) Dinner Selections
✔ Two (2) bottles of wine (one red, one white),
‘The Queen’ of Benton Harbor!
The Netflix series Bridgerton is primarily set in London during the Regency era (early 1800’s) during the reign of King George III. The series depicts an alternative history in which the King establishes racial equality by granting many people of African descent aristocratic titles to honor the heritage of his wife, Queen Charlotte.
A key figure throughout the show, Queen Charlotte is a monarch whose personality is a blend of strength, eccentricity, and vulnerability, shaped by the pressures of her role, her personal history and sense of integrity.
The SMSO is proud to partner with local legend and Benton Harbor Commissioner, Mamie Yarbrough, to star as SMSO’s Queen for our special milestone celebration. With her own vibrancy, community legacy, and love for music, Yarbrough joyfully embodies both the show’s alternative history that shows the beauty of embracing inclusivity and the Symphony’s mission of Transforming ALL Lives Through Music.
Actress Golda Rosheuvel (left) brings Queen Charlotte’s character to life in the Bridgerton series. A fictional portrayal inspired by a real historical figure (right), Queen Charlotte was surrounded with equal parts fact and mystery.
READ : Who Was the Real Queen Charlotte?
Image courtesy of Netflix; The Print Collector/Getty Images
All ticket experiences include a plated dinner.
As a catered event, all RSVPs (ticket purchases) must be received by Sunday, September 7!
Enjoy a selection of appetizers and themed desserts in addition to your dinner selection. Each plated entree below comes with a salad, starch or vegetable side.
CHICKEN: Herb Roasted Chicken with Riesling Sauce
BEEF: Drunken Roast
VEGETARIAN: Chana Masala
Regency attire is not required, but it certainly adds to the fun! Whether you choose Regency-inspired gowns and tailcoats or a modern twist on evening elegance, the night is yours to sparkle.
READ: Stepping Into the Regency Era: A Complete Guide to Bridgerton Fashion
Need more? We’ve gathered additional links to help you find inspiration and costume suppliers, with a full range of budgets in mind.
Adults 21+ and older may purchase drink tickets to exchange for all beer, wine, and cocktail selections. Photo ID required for purchase.
Cash | Card 1 ticket = 1 drink | Beer & Wine $7 | Cocktails & Specialty Drinks $10
SPECIALTY COCKTAILS
The Queen’s Favor – Opulent, floral, and bubbly — a drink that makes an entrance.
Luxurious and impossible to ignore. Made with vodka, blueberry lavender syrup, a hint of lemon, topped with Prosecco and a lavender sprig.
The Duke’s Smolder – Sultry, rich, and a little dangerous – like the Duke himself.
A bold and mysterious cocktail with a bite. Made with bourbon, honey syrup, angostura bitters, garnished with orange peel.
PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY!
thank you, sponsors!
In Kind Supporters
