Name: Classical Pride The Baroque Ball
Start: 2026-06-11T19:30
End: 0001-01-01T00:00
Location: Banqueting House

Step into King James I’s party palace for an evening of costumes, dance and music

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When

Thursday 11 June 2026

Access from 19:30 (performance starts at 20:30)

Ticketing Information

Separate ticket required. Please visit the Classical Pride website for details and purchase.

Member discount available.

Separate ticket (advance booking required)

Buy tickets

Events

For one night only, Classical Pride, in partnership with Historic Royal Palaces, presents a bold reimagining of the Baroque court ball.

Inspired by the splendour of the courts of James I and Louis XIV, this immersive experience brings together world-class performers, period music and contemporary creativity in one of London’s most iconic historic spaces.

Directed by Daniel Evans (Co-Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company), with choreography by Olivier Award-winner James Cousins, the evening celebrates the works of Baroque composers including Handel, Lully and Corelli, while honouring the LGBTQ+ voices and stories connected to this rich musical heritage.

Experience live performances

Performances from acclaimed artists including Anthony Roth Costanzo, Bruno de Sá, Nicky Spence and Jaye Simmons will take place throughout the evening, accompanied by a period-instrument ensemble directed by Classical Pride founder Oliver Zeffman.

Ian McKellen will set the scene, while dancers guide you through the experience, with the opportunity to learn a selection of 17th-century dance steps with expert instruction.

About classical pride

Classical Pride is an annual music festival curated by conductor Oliver Zeffman, celebrating the richness and diversity of LGBTQ+ artists within classical music.

Launched in 2023, the festival marked the first Pride celebration of its kind by a major European orchestra or concert hall. Since then, it has grown significantly, expanding to a five-day programme in 2024 and, in 2025, reaching international audiences with performances at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

Through world-class performances and bold programming, Classical Pride continues to champion inclusion and representation across the classical music world.