The Mix hosts Summer themed alternative Prom event for young people

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Going to a prom has become a rite of passage for young people leaving secondary school and going onto the next chapter of their life, but what if you don’t get that opportunity?

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That’s why The Mix hosted its second Infinity Night—a joyful, alternative prom for 15 to 19-year-olds (equivalent to school years 11–13) who are unable to attend mainstream education, which means they miss out on their Prom. They could be home educated, access school another way, or are part of an alternative provision, and these young people deserve to celebrate too.

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Dressed to impress—with no pressure to conform—attendees rocked everything from elegant gowns to creative cosplay.

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The Mix was transformed into a summer party paradise. Guests entered on their own red carpet beneath a wave-like ceiling of flowing crepe paper. Inside, a Tiki bar served colourful mocktails, a buffet  was laid out, and the space buzzed with music, beach balls, glow sticks, and laughter. There was even a chill-out zone for anyone needing a breather.

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After arrival photos, mingling, and food it was time to hit the dance floor—or relax and enjoy a live acoustic set by young local talent, Violet.

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This magical evening provided young people with the prom experience they had missed, as well as an experience for their parents who have also missed out on seeing their children go to prom, until now. One parent even adorned their car in pink bows to match their daughters dress as they dropped her off.

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At the end of the night, one young person said; “I wasn’t able to go to my prom, so when I got the opportunity to come here, I jumped at it, and everything about tonight has been so amazing.” The night was truly memorable for everyone involved.

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Josh Goddard, Open Access Lead and Prom Coordinator, at The Mix, said; “We are so proud to have been able to run our Infinity Night Prom again this year. After last year's success it was important to us that we offer this provision in 2025.

"We see so many young people come through our building each year, and what an amazing opportunity this is to celebrate with them; dancing, laughing and having a good time!

"Alot of the young people who came would not otherwise have had access to a Prom, and this is such an important night in terms of marking the transition into adulthood. We are proud to be able to use the resources we have at The Mix, to give these young people memories that will last a lifetime.”

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Infinity Night was free of charge, as is all The Mix’s services, so funding was achieved to pay for the costs of food, decorations and activities for the night by Stowmarket Town Council and Breheny Civil Engineering. Catering was provided by The Mix’s café, Cabbages & Kings and the gold posts that lined the red carpet were borrowed from The Regal Cinema across the road.

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Date written: 17.07.2025