You’re invited to a ‘Fancy Ball’ at Bath Assembly Rooms

Bath Assembly Rooms will be hosting a grand ‘Fancy Ball’ on Saturday 15 June from 6:30pm. 

Guests are invited to enjoy an evening of two eras in the National Trust Bath Assembly Rooms, a place where historically people came together to meet, dance, and mix.  

The event begins as a Georgian fancy ball where people can have a go at dancing like they did in the 18th century, try Georgian card games, and embellish their outfits at the accessories wardrobe and make-up table.  

Image: A recreated Georgian gown made and worn by Dr Serena Dyer, credit Serena Dyer

Then from 9pm onwards the Ball Room will switch to a more modern type of assembly as a DJ takes over for guests to dance the night away.  

Whilst the Fancy Ball is inspired by Georgian fancy dress balls, there is no requirement for guests to dress in Georgian costume – although this is welcomed. Guests are asked to rummage in their wardrobes and find their fanciest outfit to wear, and if they wish, to embellish it with a themed twist. 

Tatjana LeBoff, Project Curator at National Trust’s Bath Assembly Rooms, said: “As we build the new visitor experience at Bath Assembly Rooms, we want to understand what it might’ve felt like to attend a Georgian ball here, and what a modern equivalent might feel like.  

“This ball is an integral part of our research, but we also hope it will be brilliant fun for guests. The Georgians knew how to make the most of their wardrobes and we’re excited to see how that will translate to the modern day; be it the outfit you’ve just been waiting for an excuse to wear, or a DIY decoration to complement an old favourite.” 

The ‘Fancy Ball’ is part of ‘Dressing Fancy,' a programme of events taking place at the Bath Assembly Rooms throughout June as part of a research project into Georgian fancy dress and how people dress up today, which includes a pop-up exhibition and series of talks. 

Image: Dressed fancy in a modern ball gown in the Tea Room at Bath Assembly Rooms, credit Ruth Newell 

‘Dressing Fancy’ is a research project between Tatjana LeBoff, Project Curator at National Trust’s Bath Assembly Rooms, and Dr Meg Kobza, Leverhulme Early Career Fellow from Newcastle University. Together, they’re researching fancy dress from the late 18th and early 19th centuries, exploring the legacies of Georgian fancy dress, how people dress up today, and the perceptions of fancy dress in today’s society.  

Image: Dressed fancy in a cocktail dress with crab accessories, credit Ruth Newell 

These events have been made possible through generous funding from the British Academy's SHAPE Involve and Engage Award, The Society of Antiquarian's Janet Arnold Award, Newcastle University, and the Leverhulme Foundation. 

Image: Dressed fancy as a magpie in the Great Octagon at Bath Assembly Rooms, credit Ruth Newell 

Booking is essential for the Fancy Ball. Tickets are £15 per person, concessions £9, and include one complimentary drink. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/bath-assembly-rooms for more information.