CEDAR CITY – In celebration of Jane Austen Week and the Utah Shakespearean Festival’s production of “Pride and Prejudice,” the festival and the Jane Austen Society of North America put on a Regency Ball July 21.

The ball took place at an LDS stake center, and people of all ages gathered to dance and celebrate one of the best-known authors. While many of them dressed up, costumes were not required. The ball featured music, dancing, and refreshments. The dances were taught as they were preformed, making it so even those who had never danced before could participate.

Sharon Crosby has participated in a lot of Regency events. When she saw a flier advertising the ball she decided to attend.

“It’s been really fun,” Crosby said. “I really hope they do it again.”

Amanda Caraway, Utah Shakespearean Festival media and public relations director, said the ball was one of several events celebrating Austen.

“We’re doing ‘Pride and Prejudice’ this summer, which is an adaptation of her most famous novel,” Caraway said. “We thought it would be fun to have a week celebrating Jane Austen.”

According to a press release, Jane Austen Week events included a garden brunch with “Pride and Prejudice” cast members at the Garden House of Cedar City; book signing with Jennifer Adams, author of “Remarkably Jane: Notable Quotations on Jane Austen;” a Curtain Call Luncheon; the Regency Ball; and the play “Pride and Prejudice.”

The show runs through the end of August and Brunch with the Bennets at the Garden House will take place again Aug. 6 and 19 at 11 a.m. Tickets are available in advance or, for an additional charge, at the door.

JASNA, which was very involved in making Jane Austen Week possible, is a national organization that throws events celebrating Austen’s contribution to the literary world. JASNA Utah Region Coordinator Aspen Anderson said she heard of the JASNA a few years ago and decided to set up a Utah group.

“I love Jane Austen and felt it was a travesty that there was none (branches of the group in Utah),” Anderson said. “After all, who loves Jane Austen more than us?”

Anderson’s parents, Laura and Craig Anderson, were among the participants. They came to support Anderson and because of their love for Jane Austen.

The Regency Ball was free of charge, although donations were accepted.

“Donations go for future events and paying for tonight,” Anderson said.