A queer working-class haven: Lady Malcolm’s Servants Ball
Lady Malcolm’s elaborate Servants Balls provided a social highlight for staff who normally worked below stairs in domestic service. Here, queer working-class individuals forged a unique space for themselves. But these balls were to become plagued by scandal.
The 1930s saw a series of balls at the Royal Albert Hall filled with fancy dress, dancing to the early hours and transgressive clothing. These events were for the nation’s servants. Described as a kaleidoscope of colour, they were held annually and became very popular. As their popularity increased, so too did their attraction to society's outsiders.
‘In the bars small groups of young men dressed in coloured silk blouses and tight hipped trousers, were drinking from small glasses. One had a small hand mirror and comb. Their lips were rouged and faces painted.’
Metropolitan Police file. Catalogue reference: MEPO 2/3281
Individuals perceived as men danced with other men, dressed in unconventional, gender-playful outfits, and wore makeup. The range of sexuality and gender expressions on display was a riotous queer kaleidoscope for the 1930's! Against the host’s initial intentions, for one night of the year, the Royal Albert Hall became a queer working-class haven.
So join us in 1930 at the ball for a charleston or a foxtrot, we will show you how! listen to music from the 1920's & 1930's, sip a decadent cocktail from the bar and listen to live music and song from The Chamomile Mollies, Medusa has Been, Keziah and Sonja Harms.
Dress fancy, not fancy dress or come as you are, we don't mind!
Doors open 7pm, little chat about the history of the balls and Lady Malcolm with Dr Martin O'Brien and then swish around looking fabulous for the rest of the party!