For the State Theatre, the new year seemed like a good time not only to look forward but to rewind, taking the Eau Claire community back in time to the 20s, where gangsters, flappers, gambling, and prohibition reigned. It was also a time during which the downtown landmark first opened, and in honor of its 85th year, the theater will be holding a Bootlegger’s Ball. The event’s coordinator, Ashley Dziuk, said they chose the theme as a way to commemorate the 1926 opening. And as such, everyone from The State will be dressed according to the period (as flappers and gangsters, etc.) and encourage attendees to do the same. There will be a pianist in the lobby, a musical group on stage, a dance floor, local catering, “illegal” alcohol for sale, and cigarette girls pandering candy cigarettes and cigars with fake money included for gambling. There will be five gambling stations where people can use the fake money and trade their winnings in for raffle tickets. The prize packages are extensive, including a week’s stay in Florida, sporting event tickets, spa packages, and more. The funds from the evening will support the historical theater, which is going all out for their anniversary. “Expectations for the evening are high,” Dziuk said, “and we’re gonna have a lot of fun.”