Frequently Asked Questions
We will update our FAQs as we have more information.
Check out our blog for updates!
Are you keeping the Century Ballroom name?
No. The Century Ballroom name will be kept with Hallie.
We are currently searching for a new name and thought crowd-sourcing from the people who call the ballroom ‘home’ would make the most sense. Please make your name suggestions here.
Which spaces are you taking?
We’re planning to lease and operate the Grand Ballroom and West Hall, and sub-lease the Tin Table to a business that wants to partner with us.
When are you signing a lease?
IT’S SIGNED. WE DID IT. While it sinks in… we’re busy bees getting ready to get our keys on April 1st, 2025. Now the real work begins.
What’s happening to The Tin Table?
Hallie is still deciding how long she is going to keep it open but it’s likely things will transition to our new sub-tenant in the next few months. We’re still sorting out the shape and size of things but we do know you’ll still be able to get excellent crafts cocktails!
When is the transition?
We start our lease in April and will renovate & restore one ballroom at a time so dances can continue. We’re hoping it will take 2-3 months to complete all of our work.
Are you renovating?
Yes! We plan on refinishing the wood floors, replacing the carpets, painting everything and deep cleaning. We also plan on addressing some deferred maintenance, updating the lights and sound systems, refurnishing, and restoring the space with a bit of an art nouveau twist, which is historically accurate to the time period of when the building was built in 1908.
We’ll also be fully renovating the 2nd floor bathrooms and doing some cosmetic updates in the common areas.
We plan on hiring contractors for the big stuff but will likely need community support for a big garage sale, cleaning, and maybe other work parties!
How are you going to make the business financially sustainable?
First, we are not planning to operate the Tin Table, which has the highest operating costs besides rent and the smallest margins (as most restaurants do).
Second, we plan on making changes to the marketing strategy and programming to fully utilize the spaces during the week. Reaching more people, with more ways to engage will help us diversify.
Third, making space for dance weekenders, live performances, weddings and private events will go a long way to helping us financially stabilize.
What are you doing differently or the same?
While we renovate, dance socials and class schedules will be modified to operate in one ballroom at a time, before re-expanding to use both spaces. We plan to work closely with the instructors and other local organizers in the various dance styles present at Century, so that any changes we make to the schedule consider their needs and try not to compete with other events in the city if at all possible.
Are the dances going to continue?
YES. We will run a modified schedule while we renovate one ballroom at a time before reopening both spaces. The new schedule will likely change some but we want to take care of everyone and ensure continuity to the best of our abilities.
Are you retaining the same staff, including Hallie and Alison?
Hallie will be staying on to support ballroom operations in the transition, and we will be working closely with instructors and staff on the schedule, new contracts and shifting folks over to our payroll. Hallie and Alison will continue to teach and have an open invite to teach as long as they want to!
For now, exactly the same way you have been. We’ll provide more updates if and when that changes.
How do we register for classes?
What dances and classes will be offered?
The schedule through March is posted on Century’s website and confirmed. The modified schedule during renovations will be posted soon on Century’s website. Our aim is to continue to support all the dance communities that currently call Century home and maybe make some space for new ones in time!
Will the venue be all ages?
Yes, although we will likely continue to run certain dances that are specifically 21+.
When is the grand opening?
Gosh, we wish we knew! We’ve got to sign the lease and start renovations before we will have a clearer picture. You’ll likely dance in both spaces for a bit before we’re ready to throw a big bash.
Are the prices going to change?
We don’t know for sure, but we’re going to do our best to keep prices the same, or switch to a sliding scale model with accessible pricing.
Will there be a membership?
This is definitely part of the plan and a lot of people seem excited about it! We’ve gotta get through the big stuff first and will look into this a few months down the line.
Will there be a bar?
Yes, though we’re still working out the details.
Can I book the space for an event?
Hopefully! If we get the lease, we plan on booking weddings, private events, dance weekenders and performances. Reach out here if you’re interested in booking the space and we will get back to you as soon as we know we’ll be able to offer it.
*We will be offering a discount to anyone who signs an event contract with us while we’re under renovation!
Can I get married there?
Hopefully, yes! Fill out the form above, same guidelines apply. If we get the space, we would absolutely love to host your special day!
Can you cater for
weddings & events?
We’re not sure yet, but we will at least have a list of preferred partners.
Are you hiring?
We’ll post job descriptions and applications, when and if positions are available.
Please reach out to wilderventuresteam@gmail.com if you are able to volunteer some time!
How can I help?
We’re going to need lots of help, big and small. Fill this form out and we’ll get back to you ASAP.
Have a question we haven’t answered?
We’d love to hear from you!