Want to waltz the night away like you stepped into the world of Bridgerton? You can at the Regency Ball on Aug. 16. Parish House Baroque is inviting guests to step into refinement and romance as it opens its 2025–26 season with an immersive concert and dance experience inspired by the early 19th century, aka the Regency Era.
“This event brings the Regency era to life,” says Elisa Wicks, president of Parish House Baroque. “It’s a chance to not only hear the music of the time, but to step into it — to dance, to socialize and to experience culture as it was shared 200 years ago.”
As fans of the hit Netflix series Bridgerton probably know, the Regency Era is the period from 1811 to 1820 when George IV, Prince of Wales, ruled the British Empire when his father, King George III, was deemed unfit to govern due to mental illness. Though officially a short time period, it was the setting of Jane Austen heroines, Romantic literature and a seismic wave of change in European fashion, culture and architecture. The empire waisted gowns worn by Daphne and the Bridgerton sisters still enchant us today. Fashion, etiquette and romance were all the rage among upper-class society.
The Regency Ball will blend live period music with the genteel social dances of that era, evoking the charm of Almack’s Assembly Rooms and English drawing rooms. Guests can enjoy elegant chamber selections performed on historical instruments, as well as a guided dance session led by a live caller. No prior dance experience is required — participants are invited to join in or simply watch, listen and enjoy the atmosphere.
The ball is a perfect showcase for Parish House Baroque. The local ensemble brings early music to life through historically informed performances that span the Renaissance through the early Classical period. With a core formation of baroque violin, recorders, baroque cello and harpsichord/organ, the group presents expressive performances and immersive events to connect new audiences with early music. The Regency Ball opens the ensemble’s annual season.
Following the concert and dancing, a reception will offer guests the chance to mingle like members of the ton, aka the fashionable society, continuing the spirit of community and celebration. And, of course, period dress is encouraged but not required.
The Regency Ball will take place Saturday, Aug. 16, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at The Peel House at First Lutheran Church.
Tickets are $20 general admission, $15 for Society members and $5 for students. Find them and more details at parishhousebaroque.org.
