Be Royalty for the Night

May 3, 2023 by Two Sues On the Aisle

By Sue Weston and Susan Rosenbluth –  Two Sues On The Aisle

Put on your favorite fancy outfit (bridesmaids, prom dress, or suit) with some comfortable dancing shoes, and prepare for the Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience. This immersive experience is based on the Bridgerton Netflix series, that takes place in London during the Regency era. The event is an intimate performance where guests are invited to attend a magnificent ball and become part of the story. Guests can participate as much or as little as they choose. We recommend getting dressed up, this makes the event extra special and adds an air of authenticity to the experience of attending a royal ball. 

The Queen’s Ball – A Bridgerton Experience co-produced by Netflix,  Shondaland, and Fever opened in New York City on April 27th at the Mediapro Manhattan Studio (508 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018). 

The Queens Ball is lightly based on Bridgerton a Netflix series that was created from the Regency romance series written by Julia Quinn.  The ball is intended to make guests feel they are part of Bridgerton in the presence of the Queen. However, you do not need to be familiar with the show to enjoy the experience. Guests can interact with actors, joining them on the dance floor for period-style line dances. The illusion is complete with music played by talented musicians, members of the Queen’s court, and society aristocrats, all part of a love story that unfolds before your eyes.

The main event is a 90-minute performance that begins after the Queen arrives. 

What to Expect

The venue, located just off 10th Avenue, is in a nondescript building that hides the opulence hidden inside. The experience starts as soon as you enter through a large vestibule, washed in purple lights, and pass into a flower tunnel that leads to a large ballroom. The entire experience takes place in this one room (although there is a viewing balcony up a short flight of stairs) with a chessboard dance floor in the center. The Queen’s throne, a bar, and a gift shop (where guests can purchase accessories including top hats, gloves, tiaras, or add a sparkle of makeup) line the walls.

Inside Scoop

We recommend going directly to the photo booth when you enter. Your image becomes a Renaissance- portrait shared through a QR code and displayed on a digital canvas. Over the course of the evening, the line will grow (except during the performances). 

Think of this space as the set where guests are spectators and participants. Prepare to be approached by costumed actors who engage guests in polite conversation (the actors wear bee pins to distinguish them from guests) and offer instructions on bowing and dancing. Engage with them if you like. Listen for a change in the music which will announce the Queen’s arrival. Find a suitable viewing location near the dance floor, this is where the performances will take place. 

Enjoy the show. Bow or curtsey when the Queen enters. Guests are encouraged to join the actors presenting themselves to the Queen and to participate in dances.  

The staged performances are spectacular, telling a compelling story that combines dance and aerial numbers.  We were amazed by the tremendously talented performers, actors, dancers, and musicians, who stay in character throughout the evening. The voice of Lady Whistledown (a character from the show) makes periodic announcements maintaining a running commentary on the events playing out on the stage, sharing the who’s who of the performers, and their story. 

A Different Night Out

The Queens Ball is an evening to remember. While the drinks and food are not kosher, the activities are a lot of fun. Guests become part of the show and the festivities. Many guests joined the actors on the dance floor, learning line dances, and becoming royalty for the evening. Attending the Queen’s Ball was a thrill, interacting with the performers, and living a childhood fantasy of being a princess.

At the end of the ball, Her Majesty Queen Charlotte will select the diamond of the season, an individual from the audience who will be recognized with confetti and sparkles, ending the night with a shimmer. 

The Queen’s Ball – A Bridgerton Experience tickets can be purchased online.

*****

Two Sues on the Aisle bases its ratings on how many challahs (1-5) it pays to buy (rather than make) in order to see the play, show, film, or exhibit being reviewed. 

The Queens Ball – Bridgerton Experience Received a 4 Challah rating