Party Like It's 1699 At The Wallace Collection This October

By Londonist Last edited 101 months ago
Party Like It's 1699 At The Wallace Collection This October

Londonist is proud media partner to The Wallace Collection's Friday Late series. Don't miss Le Roi Soleil: Party like it's 1699, happening on 2 October.

A few weeks ago we were getting excited about The Wallace Collection's upcoming museum late, Le Roi Soleil: Party Like it's 1699. Taking place on 2 October, this one-off event highlights the wealth of artworks and artefacts from Louis XIV's reign found within the collection.

During the night, the spotlight will be on Kim Thomé's reflective installation inspired by Versailles' Hall of Mirrors. The innovative Norwegian designer has recently curated one of the main installations for London Design Festival at the V&A, Zotem.

The programme includes music, workshops, tours and much more — and these are our highlights:

Live performances

The Courtyard transforms into a music hall during the night with gypsy jazz from Dalston Trio and vintage 1920s French sounds from The Sparrows of Paris. In the Great Gallery, listen to modern and rock classics from the Royal Academy of Music's Corrs String Trio. After getting in the rhythm, learn the secrets of baroque dancing by joining a fun lesson accompanied by the Royal Academy of Music's Baroque ensemble.

Creative workshops

Recreate the glamour of Louis XIV's court parties by joining a mask-making workshop with east London street art aficionados Alternative London, who will be giving the art a contemporary twist. Step inside Cire Trudon's scent apothecary and discover the history of the signature candles in Louis's court — they will give away free wax cameos as well (first come first served). Sun King-inspired life drawing sessions will be led by Dan Whiteson — remember to get your ticket when you arrive.

Talks & tours

During the night, join one of the 20-minute talks and discover the traces of Louis XIV's reign within the Collection. Talks focus on different aspects of the monarch's court including music, artworks, arms and even party planning.

Le Roi Soleil: Party like it's 1699 takes place at 6pm on 2 October at The Wallace Collection, Hertford House, Manchester Square, W1U 3BN. Tickets are £12 and can be bought on the Collection website.

Londonist is proud media partner to The Wallace Collection and its Friday Lates series.

Last Updated 01 October 2015