Royal Caledonian Ball in London

[MacThomas]

Has anybody been to this event or heard about it ?

If so what is your opinion about it ?

Thanks

[JSFMACLJR]

I have been. It's a lot of fun. There are a lot of the "younger set", but that keeps the ball lively. Ball goers are very well dressed, and most know how to reel quite well.

[TheBrus]

Yes, and I've heard that it's a bit slippery in the hall. So much so that my friend Donald cautions you to be careful if you're not wearing trousers.

[Phil]

It is for all those with a Scottish background who wish to celebrate their heritage. You may find, however, that the participants are even "more Scottish" than the Scots. In Scotland dances and ceilidhs are for enjoyment and fun with a bit less concentration on doing everything just right. These sorts of "expat" do's tend to be a bit more focussed on getting all the steps just right so be warned.

[ThistleDown]

I have been. Lots of laughter, lots of cheer. I have not seen the sort of 'getting it right' Phil refers to, but perhaps I need to pay more attention and be more focused. I agree with Sandy: the crowd seems to get younger, more lively and reeling every year

[Chas]

This year's ball took place at Grosvenor House, Park Lane, LondonW1 on Friday 27th April 2012.

Here is a link to the magazine and programme:

http://www.royalcaledonianball.com/_...onian_2012.pdf

Page 4 gives the GENERAL PROGRAMME and the DANCE PROGRAMME - all important if you want to crib beforehand.

Lots of good pictures with reference to dress. We can even play 'Spot the Duke'.

Regards

Chas

[Chas]

A link to next year's Ball.

http://www.royalcaledonianball.com/b.../ticket_prices

The price - £135

They do take things seriously though -

Dress

Part of the particular appeal of the Ball is that everyone attending is wearing traditional formal evening dress. The dress requirements are stated below in summary and in detail.
Please note that those not correctly dressed will be refused entry.
If you are unsure about any aspect of the dress code, please contact the Ball Secretary.
In summary

Ladies	Full length dress
Gentleman	Highland evening dress, or Evening tails with white tie, or Mess kit No dinner jackets

So that's Prince Charlies out!

Regards

Chas

[ThistleDown]

Actually, Chas, most wearing Highland dress wear Prince Charlies. A few Montroses about in the younger set.

[Chas]

Having looked at the pictures, I can see you're right.

Regards

Chas

[ThistleDown]

The last time I was there there was a chap in a cutaway tuxedo jacket, a frilly-fronted shirt with cuffs at his knuckles (no links, just loose), a very wide straight black tie, a gigantic rabbit or something sporran and a perfectly-fitted kilt with matching hose. And black high-tops. Glasgow accent. Simply eccentic; no harm done.