Speaking of Eastern Rites, the 2007 Petroushka Ball takes place this Friday, Feb. 9, in aid of the Russian Children’s Welfare Society. This will be at the Waldorf-Astoria, here in NYC. If you’re Russian, or of Russian descent, or want to hang out with Russians, or just want to help a really good cause by attending a well-organized formal ball, contact the Society for tickets. The Derbs will of course be there, foxtrotting the night away.

In addition to dinner & dancing, there’ll be special performances by opera singers Matthew Polenzani of the Met and Anna Alkhimova of L.A. Opera. Also Alexey Arkhipovskiy, the world’s greatest balalaika player. (Don’t laugh. Have you ever HEARD the balalaika played by a real pro?)