Town looks back to Waterloo during three-day mini festival

Dancers at last year's Regency Ball. This year's will be on June 19

On Friday June 19 from 7pm to 11pm, step back in time at a Regency Revel, for an evening of Regency-themed entertainment inspired by celebrations 200 years ago.

The event is jointly organised by Leamington Art Gallery & Museum and Heritage Matters to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo. It is part of Leamington Looks Back at Waterloo, a mini festival of heritage and culture which is taking place from June 19 to 21

Throughout the evening there will be live music, readings from the period, including works by Jane Austen, as well as games. There will also be the chance to have a go at different dances from the era, with caller Andrew Rawe guiding you through the steps. Regency dress is encouraged, but not essential.

Tickets include a welcome drink and canapés.

Throughout the Leamington Looks Back at Waterloo mini festival, there will also be free activities taking place. Local historian Jacqui Kirk will present Rattle in a Red Coat at a Friday Focus at the Art Gallery & Museum on June 19 at 1pm.

And on Saturday June 20 from 12noon to 4pm, there’s an afternoon of Music, Medals and the Military, with activities for the whole family taking place at the Art Gallery & Museum and just outside the building in the Pump Room Gardens. Meet the ‘Duke of Wellington’ and make military hats with the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Museum. You can also listen to Regency music performed by Dodici Corde Early Romantic Guitar Duo and try your hand at making marvellous medals!

To end the weekend of celebrations, a Handsome Hats workshop will run on Sunday 21 June, 11am – 4pm. Create and decorate a hat suitable for a Regency lady or gentleman.

Over the Leamington Looks Back at Waterloo weekend there will be an opportunity to see objects relating to the Napoleonic Wars from the collections on display in the Art Gallery & Museum.

Tickets for the Regency Revel cost £25 per person and are now on sale at the Art Gallery & Museum by calling 01926 742700, or via the Royal Spa Centre website http://www.warwickdc.gov.uk/royalspacentre.