Wednesday 30 May 2007

Time to tango

In the 1920s the Waldorf's tango teas were an essential part of high society - the place to see and be seen. And in June Waldorf Hilton will be reviving this glamorous tradition in the run-up to the hotel's centenary celebrations in January 2008.

On 10 June the world-famous tango tea will make its spectacular return to Palm Court, the Waldorf's magnificent centrepiece ballroom, where socialites have danced, dined and partied with the rich and famous since the hotel opened in 1908. Currently this is a one-off event but the hotel hopes to make it a more regular occasion from the autumn.

Daniel Van Wyk, operations director at the hotel, said, "The Waldorf is a London institution which throughout its history has held close ties with London society."

"We are planning a host of exciting events in the build-up to our main centenary celebration party in January next year, and with tango tea we’re offering people the chance to step back in time to an age of elegance."

The tea runs from 2-5pm, and there will be music from a five-piece percussion band. Guests will be entertained by professional dancers before being invited onto the dancefloor to show off their own moves. For anyone with doubts about their dancing prowess, there are two one-hour lessons from 12-2pm, costing £10 each.

Afternoon tea will also be served. This includes finger sandwiches, Waldorf baked scones and clotted cream, one of Patisserie Chef Colin Bennett’s exquisite cakes accompanied by a selection of fresh leaf teas and a glass of champagne.

The tango tea costs £55 and dance partners are available at £35. See www.hilton.co.uk/waldorf for bookings.


You've been tangoed: 1920s glamour returns to the stunning Palm Court

Links
Waldorf Hilton

2 comments:

Hellbelle said...

It's like another world! I don't think they'd let me in there ;)

The London Lowdown said...

Me either! But I am thinking of trying one of their history tours. It's an afternoon tea along with a lesson about the history of the hotel and area. If I book myself in I'll be sure to write about it here!