Derby's May Ball happens once a year and is a chance for all us poor and needy students to take advantage of the occasion and dress to impress. The men were looking dazzling, dressed in their tuxedos and suits, and us females dusted down our best evening gowns and made a huge effort to look fantastic. Before heading to Kedleston Road, everyone gathered in town for some pre-ball drinks in one of the sponsoring bars. The BBC Derby Online camera was also doing the rounds so makes sure you check the memorable May Ball moments gallery to see if you picture made it through quality control! Click on the link to the right. From the bar we could see white stretched limo waiting patiently outside but six guys hopped in, unfortunately we had to make do with a Derby taxis!  | | Goldie Lookin Chain |
On arrival at the university, students were invited to walk the red carpet as search lights crossed the sky and an impressive fire juggler dazzled us with his flaming hot tricks. Inside and the atrium has been transformed from a place of study to a spectacular palace, over-flowing with excited students all waiting for the fun to start. The Bars were heaving, the girls were tottering, everyone was smiling and the atmosphere was building. In an attempt to cater for everyone's musical needs, this year's ball took on a festival feel, with the university being divided in to five different arenas. The Arms was turned from student bar into urban central, featuring a human beat box and some classic Bollywood dancing. Richardson Hall was home to the rock alternative room. A marquee was erected and turned into a dance arena, enabling ravers to bust their favourite moves and comedy took centre stage in the Heap Lecture Theatre.  | | Mylo Live |
By midnight, the anticipation had reached boiling point. GLC were due on stage any second and the crowd was bursting at the seams. Finally the Welsh rappers entered the spotlights and launched into a 45 minute onslaught of lyrical genius which was duly lapped up by a sea of nodding students. Next up and it was time to drop the pressure – Mylo and his merry men had landed, bringing with them a gaggle of rock and roll treats. This year’s hot tip, The Editors were over in Richardson Hall alongside Trap 2 Green Dayz and Battle of the Bands winners, Death of a Party. The fairground was a popular attraction for those dare devils that didn't care about messing their hair up. My expectations were based on a scene from Grease though, so I was slightly disappointed when I actually got there. It still had to be done and although I didn't fancy the Top Spin, I did have a go on the Dodgems. There were also food stands for all those among us who couldn't wait any longer for a dirty burger and a slice of pizza, washed down with a steady flow of alcohol. As the night continued my four inch heels were getting the better of me and the 6 am survival picture seemed a mile away. I left early, leaving many of my friends dancing away to Colin Murray and the rest of the Radio One crew. This was my first ball since being at university and it was a brilliant night. I hope all those who attended enjoyed it as much as I did. Big thanks to the UDSU for putting on such an amazing night. Roll on next year! Our photographer, Sian Eldridge also went along to the ball this year - have a look in the gallery to the right and see if she managed to snap you. | 
