“Fine dancing, I believe, like virtue, must be its own reward.” Well said Jane Austen! Follow in the footsteps of Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet this December at a special Regency Christmas Ball.
In the wake of our internationally successful Pride & Prejudice, we invite you to join us, and the Mayor & Mayoress of Guildford, to celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th Birthday.
The evening will include a range of dances, called by Pride & Prejudice’s movement director Amy Lawrence. Absolutely no dance experience is necessary, and though not necessary, Regency is dress is heartily recommended!
Join us for an enchanting evening of music, dancing and Regency splendour in the surroundings of Surrey’s largest Georgian church.
Licenced bar onsite. There will be a retiring collection in aid of the Mayor of Guildford’s charities.
NOTE: if you are a wheelchair user or have accessibility requirements please email us directly to answer any questions.
Dance protocols for the evening:
In the spirit of the Regency Ball, you will not always dance with the partner you arrived with, but change partners throughout the evening. Guests do not need to come with a partner. Dances are group experiences. No dance experience is necessary. Full instructions will be given during the evening. On arrival guests will be issued with a dance card, indicating which dances they will be involved in.
GET THE REGENCY LOOK...
Though Regency fashions are not obligatory, guests are encouraged to enter into the spirit of the evening. Remember, Bridgerton wasn't purely traditional, so think fabulous! Here're some familiar faces to give you inspiration.
Women
Empire-waist dresses: light, flowing fabrics like muslin or silk, styled with high-set waists, low necklines, and short sleeves. Hairstyles: inspired by classical Greek and Roman statues, adorned with ribbons or flowers Shawls: Often made of fine cashmere or silk, sometimes featuring a Paisley pattern. Bonnets: Worn outdoors and decorated with feathers or ribbons. Gloves: Wrist-length for day and over-the-elbow for evening. Gentlemen
Tailcoats were common, with a high collar and a front that was cut away at the waist to form long tails at the back. Waistcoats cut short and straight, often in a contrasting colour or patterned fabric to add visual interest. Shirts and cravats were high-collared white linen, finished with a starched white cravat tied in one of many intricate styles. Trousers and boots: Breeches that reached the knee gradually gave way to longer, tightly fitted pantaloons and then to trousers. Often tucked into boots. Hats: The tall, cylindrical top hat became the most fashionable choice! Here's some local costume hire links: https://pranksterstheatre.org.uk/costume-hire/ https://www.hampshireculture.org.uk/hampshire-wardrobe GSC does not stock Regency costumes
Find us
Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Guildford