By MACK ROSENBERG
CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Kentucky Derby is coming a little early this year—to Fordham that is. Residence Halls Association (RHA) announced last Thursday that the Kentucky Derby will be the theme for this year’s Under the Tent Dance, which will take place on Saturday, April 26.

The official title of the theme is Kentucky Derby: A Chance of a Lifetime, according to RHA’s president Sarah Hill, GSB ’14.

The dance will begin at 9 p.m., and students are expected to dress in semi-formal attire.

Hill notes the decorative wardrobe options explain the uniqueness of the theme, Derby fashion are part of the theme’s appeal.

“It is a never-before-seen theme for Under the Tent,” said Hill. “Some of the past year’s themes have been recycled from previous years. [Kentucky Derby] is different and fresh.”

Nolan Silbernagel, FCRH ’14, is happy with the theme chosen for his final Under the Tent dance.

“I appreciate how they try to make it where people can get dressed up in a fancy way, like girls getting the huge hats,” Silbernagel said.

According to KentuckyDerby.com, hats are an essential part of the Derby experience. Women traditionally wear wide-brimmed hats, the more outlandish and ornate the better. Light spring fabrics and pastel colors are appropriate for men and women. The only rule when it comes to Derby fashion is to dress to stand out.

Still, Silbernagel understands why the Kentucky Derby theme may be seen as too similar to last year’s Great Gatsby theme. He says it may not be as original as themes in year’s past. Hill responded to that.

“We want to absolutely, 1000 percent make this year different from last year and the years before, as we try to do every year,” said the senior. “Although similar themes have been chosen in years past, RHA’s past boards have done a wonderful job in creating unique atmospheres each year.”

Some younger students at Fordham were surprised to hear about this year’s theme.

“At first I thought it was an April fool’s joke,” admits sophomore Catarina Araujo, FCRH ‘16. “I definitely liked last year’s theme better, but this will be fun too.”

As far as additional entertainment at the event, there will be the usual cover band that performs every year, Pink Noise! In addition, there will be a 21-and-over tent again. There will be some surprises, Hill says, you will just have to see for yourself. Araujo has high expectations.

“They better rent a real horse,” she said.

Ticket information can be found by going to the Under the Tent 2014 Ticket Sales Facebook Page.