5-8 PM Saturday 12 October 2024
Palais Royale, 230 Katoomba St, Katoomba
We couldn’t have a Ball, but we can have a consolation prize.
Introducing ‘A Soirée Called Wallis’, a homage to an age of outrageous events that threatened an empire, outrageous behaviours away from Belgravia, outrageous characters of both good and questionable character and the lightning rod in the middle of it all, Wallis Simpson.
Wistfulness wrapped in Dior and restrained in jewels whilst the party raged about. It was a marvellous party before the bird in the gilded cage became wrapped in ennui and wrinkles. My God, it’s sounding all too familiar. Pour me a gin.
Very Glamorous. Very Tragique. Very Gay.
The perfect vehicle for a themed party in the fabulous bijou surrounds of the Palais Royale. A chance to dress your best. Sip something cool. Nibble something nice. Chat to friends. Maybe, have a foxtrot.
Wallis
Wallis, Duchess of Windsor, was an American socialite and wife of former king Edward VIII. Their intention to marry and her status as a divorcée caused a constitutional crisis that led to Edward’s abdication.
Also known as Wallis Simpson (from her second marriage), she was known for hosting glamorous and sophisticated soirées that attracted the elite of society. Her parties were the epitome of elegance and style, often reflecting her impeccable taste and attention to detail.
A Marvelous Party
Noel Coward penned a song about a some parties he went to while he was holidaying in the French Riveria:
Everyone’s here and frightfully gay
Nobody cares what people say
Though the Riviera
Seems really much queerer
Yesterday night
I went to a marvelous party
With Nounou and Nada and Nell
I couldn’t have liked it more
The Palais
The Palais Royale. Built in 1896, it is a period gem. Lottsa class. The Royale exudes glamour, exclusiveness, charm, a whiff of yesteryear, the breath of the thirties, its glamour years. The Palais Royale offers the perfect venue for an intimate soiree. Promenade down the hill from Katoomba station to 228 Katoomba St and enter the hallowed halls and the sparkling ballroom.
Dress
Imagine a soirée in the late 1930s, set in a grand European mansion. The guests, dressed in the finest evening attire, would arrive to a beautifully decorated venue with art deco influences. The ambiance would be one of opulence, with crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow over the room, and tables adorned with exquisite floral arrangements.
Dress your best to be in the running for an award for the most impressive person, pair or group in theme.
Entertainment
Be entertained by the fabulous Miss Robyn Banks. A chanteuse of impeccable music talents, crooning tunes of elegance, sophistication, style and romance; as well as a lot of swing.
Other delights will await you. But they are secret. There should be some mystery left in life. Although we might give you hints along the way.
Tickets
Tickets are on sale from TryBooking between 6 September and 11 October. First release tickets are $79. After those are sold out tickets are $99. There are limited tickets available.
You will be able to peruse all the latest chatter on Facebook, the modern-day forum where whispers and tales abound.