Great Gatsby Oxford University Ball
Who is Oxford University?
The University of Oxford stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Founded centuries ago, it has shaped leaders, writers, scientists, and politicians across generations. Its historic colleges, grand libraries, and academic reputation attract students from every corner of the globe.
Alongside its academic excellence, Oxford also boasts a vibrant social scene. The Oxford Union, founded in 1823, hosts debates, cultural events, and glamorous student gatherings throughout the year. These occasions blend intellect with indulgence, proving that Oxford knows how to trade textbooks for tuxedos when the jazz begins to play.
Stage One: The Brief
Our brief centred on providing immersive entertainment for the themed Great Gatsby Oxford University Ball event. The chosen theme embraced the dazzling world of the Roaring Twenties. Guests would step into an evening inspired by jazz, glamour, and champagne-soaked decadence.
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel shaped the creative direction of the event. Women arrived draped in sequins, fringe, feathers, and sleek Art Deco silhouettes. Gentlemen swapped lecture halls for tailored three-piece suits, polished shoes, and bold pocket squares. The atmosphere demanded elegance with a splash of bootleg bravado, so every performance needed enough sparkle to make Gatsby himself raise a glass.
Stage Two: Putting on the Ritz
The prestigious Oxford Union on Frewin Court provided the perfect backdrop for the evening’s speakeasy splendour. Established in 1823, the venue remains one of the world’s most famous debating societies. Its Victorian Gothic architecture gave the event enough old-world charm to make even Jay Gatsby feel underdressed.
Inside, the venue shimmered with Art Deco opulence. Gold palm trees lined the rooms, while chandeliers cast a warm glow across red carpets and pearl-strewn décor. Decorative feathers and sleek backdrops transformed the Union into a champagne dream straight from West Egg. Dressed to the nines, guests Charlestoned across the dance floor as a ten-piece swing band kept the joint jumpin’.
A custom Gatsby ice sculpture added extra razzmatazz to the festivities. Bartenders poured drinks directly through the frozen centrepiece, chilling each cocktail in spectacular fashion. Every detail dripped with roaring twenties flair, creating an atmosphere that felt equal parts elegance and mischief.
Guests embraced the spirit of the evening with all the gusto of a roaring twenties house party. Sequins shimmered beneath the chandeliers, while sharp tuxedos filled the dance floor with style and swagger. Cameras flashed constantly as guests posed beside performers and soaked up the glimmering atmosphere.
Stage Three: The Glitz and Glamour
Our performers brought buckets of glitz and glamour to the Great Gatsby Oxford University Ball. Stilt walkers towered above the crowd, mingling with guests like larger-than-life socialites from a forgotten jazz age. Red-feathered showgirls swept through the venue with enough sparkle to light up Manhattan.
Elsewhere, an aerialist soared gracefully overhead, adding a touch of high-society spectacle to the evening. Acrobats twisted and tumbled between guests, while a contortionist folded herself into shapes that left audiences utterly flabbergasted. A sword swallower delivered danger with a wink and enough bravado to earn applause from every corner of the ballroom.
Many visitors gathered around the entertainers for selfies, laughter, and playful interaction. Others danced late into the evening as the swing band filled the Union with jazz-age rhythm. From start to finish, the celebration delivered enough glitz, glamour, and Gatsby grandeur to make the night the bee’s knees.
Throughout the night, performers mixed and mingled with guests, creating lively moments and unforgettable photo opportunities. Their roaming presence kept the atmosphere bubbling like a freshly uncorked bottle of champagne.
If you are interested in including 1920s themed entertainment at your next event you can find out more information on our Great Gatsby theme page. Alternatively if you have your own ideas in mind and would like to discuss a custom package created just for you, just like The University of Oxford did – feel free to drop us a message on our Contact page.
“What a fantastic night. The feedback has been brilliant, we couldn’t have done it without you and your team.”
– MELANIE ONOVO
Treasurer of the Oxford Union, The University of Oxford