THE PEOPLE’S MANSION BALL

2019 marks the 60 year anniversary of Ashton Court being purchased by Bristol City Council and becoming a mansion for the people. During the second world war, Ashton Court Mansion was used as an army transit base and the last balls held by the Smyths of Ashton Court saw the house transformed with jazz and GIs. Dress up encouraged, we have a fabulous line-up of performances. Doors Open at 8pm with our live band kicking off at 9pm.

The Paper Moon Band – Live Swing Band 9-11pm
Paper Moon is a swinging ensemble bursting with energetic swing, effortless repartee and classic tunes from the swing era. Fans of vibrant dance floors, the band was created with Lindy Hop and swing dancers in mind, whilst offering rhythms that would convince even the most determined of non-dancers to shake a toe or two... possibly even a leg.

Ms Chameleon's Mechanical Melodies – The Gramophone DJ 11pm-12am
Marvel as Ms Chameleon winds up her wind ups and spins tunes that will delight you (and your grandma). From the 20s to the war years, Ms Chameleon will get your toes tapping to some supreme swing from both sides of the Atlantic (be warned there may be some novelty numbers too). There's no dubstep here, just a spring in your step as you shake and shimmy to the shellac sounds of Ms Chameleon's Mechanical Melodies.

DJ Baroness Jo Jo 12am-1am
Jockey of voluptuous, vintage, swinging sounds... acolyte of alliteration. DJ Baroness Jo Jo has had past residencies at The Pigalle club, Cafe de Paris, Volupte, Wild Times, The Purple Turtle, Bethnal Green Working Men's Club and The Aeronaut. She currently plays at Swing at Sway for The UK Swing Dance Society. Other events have included Glastonbury festival, Bestival, Thames festival, The Underbelly Festival, Silent Disco at the top of the Shard, The Brit Awards after party, the Swing Ball at the Royal Albert Hall, and at concerts for the Puppini Sisters, Paloma Faith and Eartha Kitt.

Rose Popay
Illustrator and event portrait artist Rose Popay will be creating portraits with a twist in the panelled lounges.

MC: Divine Miss Em. A sparkling vintage songbird with all the vintage wisecracks and charm you could possibly ask for in a host. Flexing her impressive vocals skills and extensive hosting experience, Miss Em will guide you through the night and welcome our fabulous artists to the stage for your delight and entertainment.