RA Late

Masquerade

Saturday 23 January 2016 6.30 - 10pm

Burlington House, Royal Academy of Arts

£22 (includes entry to Jean-Etienne Liotard and a cocktail).

Sold out

Jean-Etienne Liotard

The RA presents an evening of 18th century courtly decadence, inspired by European Enlightenment artist Jean-Etienne Liotard and his exotic adventures, as we explore the cultural curiosity between East and West that defined the age.

Experience the faded opulence of a fictional 18th century after-dinner scene, hosted by Gideon Reeling, where you’ll be able to take part in traditional ‘coffee house’ activities from lively debates, scandalous gossip, games and more.

Take part in a life drawing class hosted by Art Macabre that will recreate Liotard’s beautifully crafted scenes for you to sketch yourself, whilst listening to musicians perform traditional Turkish music of the time, materials kindly provided by Cass Art.

Watch the elegant baroque dances of the 18th century ballroom and stage, accompanied with the flute, hurdy-gurdy and pip and tabor, or join in with some simple English ballroom dances that became popular in European courts, led by Barbara Segal.

Then dance until late to live performances by Don Kipper who’ll immerse you in upbeat Balkan music from Turkish Fasıl and Greek Rebetiko to Romani music and Klezmer.

Plus gallery talks on the social history of the beard by Benjamin Wild.

And if you’d like to make a mask to wear on the night or indeed customise your own, visit our 18th century mask-making workshop hosted by Laura Archer from Of Crowns and Gowns.

Plus Enlightenment-era scientific demonstrations, performances and more to be revealed on the night.

Food and drink: Street food stalls provided by KERB and bars serving cocktails, prosecco, wine and beers until late.

Dress code: Guests are encouraged to wear masks, with prizes given on the night for best dressed.

Download a map of Burlington House to guide you through the evening.

£22 (includes entry to Jean-Etienne Liotard and a cocktail).

Sold out