Undressing the Dashing Darcy

Mr Darcy Visitors to Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens can enjoy some 19th century extravagance this weekend with costumed dancing from the Arbeau Dancers on the beautiful lawns and witness the spectacle of the dashing Mr. Darcy, undressed, at the Regency Picnic Weekend (9 &10 August).

Meeting the character made famous from Jane Austin’s book Pride and Prejudice and probably most known through actor Colin Firth’s TV revival, will be a highlight for any Darcy fan at this weekend. While Mr Firth unfortunately won’t make an appearance, the equally handsome and charming historical interpreter will be meeting visitors and performing his popular and family friendly ‘Undressing Mr. Darcy’ presentation. But don't worry, decorum will be observed as the historical costume expert reveals the history of the Regency man's fads and fashions

Gillian Staple (is it Staple or Stapleton?), the lady who has the enviable job of undressing Mr Darcy, said: “During the regency period clothing and fashion was very important to people. Few would be willing to fall into fountains and ruin their fine attire. The demonstration shows all the different layers of clothing worn by the gentry at the time in a fun and entertaining way.”
During the regency period it was custom for people to enjoy lavish picnics accompanied by open air theatre productions. The picnic at Belsay Hall will recreate the elegance and grace of the period famous by the madness of King George III.

John Hogan, events manager at English Heritage, said: “The food available to people in the 19th century was beginning to change for the first time in hundreds of years, mainly thanks an expanding empire and improved farming methods.”

Although the chocolate bar was not invented until 1847 and tomato sa uce not until 1874 I am sure we can make a few exceptions at the picnic. I just want people to come down and enjoy themselves in these wonderful surroundings.”

The Regency days on August 9 and 10 will start when Belsay opens at 10am. The Arbeau dancers will begin the picnic at 11am followed by historic ‘Undressing Mr. Darcy’ demonstration at 12pm. The dancers will again perform at 1pm and 3pm and the Darcy routine will be performed again at 2pm and 4pm. Admission prices are Adults £6.50 Concessions: £5.20 children: £3.30 families: £16.30
English Heritage Members go free. For more information on events at Belsay Hall Castle and Gardens visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay

The Regency picnic is the third in a series of historical picnics at Belsay Hall this summer. Other picnics include the 1950s picnic where rock'n'roll reaches Belsay on August bank holiday weekend (24 and 25). A Georgian theme on the last weekend in August, will see the costumed musical duo Hautbois perform music and songs from the period.