The Architectural League’s Beaux Arts Ball 2009 this Saturday night has a dress code, but not the kind you might expect. “No stilettos please,” warns the invite, because in addition to the standard drinks and dancing, this ball features a vast factory where guests will be “building, binding, stitching and printing.”

The night’s theme is MANUFACTURE, and the venue is Gowanus’ Old American Can Factory, a sprawling 19th-century complex recently repurposed as a working space for creative industries. Some of the artists-in-residence will be on hand inviting guests into their studios and demonstrating how to use the machinery. (“Free materials will be available; feel free to bring your own,” urges the invitation.)

It may be hard to picture, but the Architectural League has a strong track record of pulling off art installation/ fancy-dress-ball mashups. Last year’s Beaux Arts Ball boasted giant inflatable bubbles; 2007’s had a mylar lounge and a fog room.

And if you’re not feeling industrious, you can always head over to the courtyard for food and drinks, with DJ Chris Annibell/Afrokinetic spinning and Wingspace Theatrical Design lighting the night.

Beaux Arts Ball 2009: MANUFACTURE.
Saturday, June 6
9:00 PM – 3:00 AM+
(Note: manufacturing space closes at midnight)

The Old American Can Factory
232 Third Street at Third Avenue
Gowanus, Brooklyn 11215

Tickets are still available, $25-250.