SOUTH AFRICA—Fifty-three African members from four countries attended the King David Ball in Johannesburg on Dec. 28, 2013, traveling in from the cities of Middelburg and George, as well as from Zimbabwe, Botswana and Kenya. The event included a meal, dancing and a royal theme that had an impact on attendees.

Local single Divan Muller organized the event, assisted by 10 other Johannesburg singles. Hard-pressed to complete the hall setup in time after sunset, many willing hands pitched in and the doors opened only 30 minutes later than planned. The singles lined up on both sides of a red carpet and welcomed guests into the hall, handing out crowns and tiaras to the children.

After a hot, buffet meal, the dance floor opened to the strains of Strauss. The dance music was notably more formal than it has been at previous dances, yet the dancers said they found the selections enjoyable to dance to.

The dance floor remained full throughout the evening, which included two dances selected exclusively for the children. Middleburg member Louis Smith called the event “magnificent!”

During the evening, the children delighted guests with a song from the Jeremiah musical: “Welcome the Endless Throne.” After the performance, the children got a surprise of their own when a South African Roary the Lion appeared. Apart from 18-month-old Maia Napier, who let out a very girly scream, the children reacted with delight at the sight of the Young Ambassadors’ mascot.

Johannesburg member Gregory Lightfoot commented that the music, food and hall decor made for a very enjoyable experience, “a very royal event.”

Philomena Nduta, who had traveled roughly 2,500 miles from Kenya, said that it was her first opportunity to attend such a dinner dance, calling the experience wonderful.”

The King David Ball coincided with the David musical, which many of the brethren streamed live the same weekend. After the widespread attendance and positive reactions to the King David Ball, the Johannesburg singles have added it to their calendar of planned activities for 2014.