Alternative Diamond Jubilee

Posted on May 28, 2012

As Jubilee celebrations get under way, the Museum of London Docklands plans to party like it’s 1897. The Alternative Diamond Jubilee looks back to the celebrations for Queen Victoria, with an evening of illusionists, burlesque and traditional crafts.

Held on May 31 from 6.45pm, the evening includes a performance by burlesque artiste Vicky Butterfly (pictured), magic tricks and “chap hop” – a retro mix of hip hop and steampunk – from Professor Elemental. You can make your own traditional coronation souvenir in the museum’s craft workshops, drink at the museum’s bar, marvel at circus performers or hear expert talks on Victorian fashion and on the “father of modern body building”, strongman Eugene Sandow.

Tickets cost £6 (concessions £5) online or by calling 020 7001 9844. The dress code is fin de siècle finery and steampunk chic.

Picture: Vicky Butterfly. Photograph: Tigz Rice Studios

Zoe Anderson

Zoë was born in Edinburgh, and saw her first dance performances at the Festival there. She is the dance critic of The Independent, and has also written for The Independent on Sunday, The Scotsman and Dancing Times. In 2002, she received her doctorate from the University of York for a thesis on “Nationhood and epic romance: Ariosto, Sidney, Spenser”. She is the author of The Royal Ballet: 75 Years and The Ballet Lover’s Companion.