Meghan Kobza: The Magnificent Masquerade (1768)

Few parties in history can match the Georgian 'Masquerade'. And among Georgian masquerades the one given by the King of Denmark in London in 1768 was particularly enchanting. It brought those of the greatest means and highest rank together in London theatre that was filled with artful costumes and glittering jewels.

This week's guest, Meghan Kobza, tells us all about the Georgian masquerade – who started it, where did it come from, how much did it cost to get in – and she takes us inside the theatre in 1768. One character who catches her eye is the unfortunate Agneta Yorke whose night turns out to be a comedy of errors.

The scenes, characters and storylines in this episode of Travels Through Time all feature in Meghan Kobza's book, The Masquerade A History of Extravagance and Intrigue.

Scene One: October 1768. At the masquerade habit warehouse scene on Tavistock Street operated by the Spilsburys.

Scene Two: October 1768. Getting ready to go out with Agneta Yorke.

Scene Three: October 1768. At the King of Denmark's Masquerade.

Memento: Agneta Yorke's dress

Presenter: Peter Moore 

Guest: Meghan Kobza

Producers: Maria Nolan

Theme music: Firelight by Minka