SAUCY swing and stomping electric beats will be invading the hallowed grounds of Truro Cathedral for the first time in its history when guests arrive to take part in a masquerade ball to celebrate the arrival of the new year.

This New Years' Eve, participants to the event are encouraged – and required - to dust off their finest ball gowns and tuxedos as the dress code is strictly black tie accompanied by a masque of their choosing.

To the backdrop of the cathedral’s Gothic revival design, live music will be provided by The Electric Swing Circus and The Showhawk Duo. Once the live bands have reached the end of their set list, there will be a silent disco. Drinks will be served in Tarquin’s Secret Gin Lounge where local DJs will also be playing all night long.

Upon entrance, guests will be welcomed on the red carpet by fire-breathers, stilt walkers and aerialists. The attendees will then be given fresh welcome drinks and canapes as they are greeted by the melody of the cathedral’s organist. At midnight, the cathedral bells will ring the New Year in with their iconic chimes before the celebrations continue until 1.30am.

The first musical act of the evening is The Electric Swing Circus is a live six-piece fusion of saucy 20s swing and stomping electro beats. With everything from rock to electronica, house, big beat and rock n roll, all with their own unique style of swing. Since the band first formed in 2011, it has toured four continents and played major festivals.

The second musical act of the evening is The Showhawk Duo, consisting of classically trained guitarists Mikhail Asanovic and Jake Wright playing old-school trance classics or modern funky house, their live show knows no boundaries and will leave guests amazed on the dance floor.

The event is organised by Quick Panda Productions, led by Ian Whittaker and Ben Hall, who is behind other successful events such as Little Orchard Cider & Music Festival and The Great Estate.

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The directors of Quick Panda Productions, stated: ‘New Year’s Eve is something that should always be celebrated in style, but perhaps more so this year following the pandemic. The evening symbolises a fresh start and with our masquerade the objective is to create truly unique memories for people in an extravagant way.

"We are beyond thrilled that Truro Cathedral is our location for this event, as the gothic design provides the ultimate surroundings to this enchanted evening. Early bird tickets are selling fast so we would encourage people to secure their tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment."

Prices start at £45 but are expected to rise in the coming weeks. Discount is available on request for NHS workers. Visit www.greatestatefestival.co.uk/nye or the Facebook event for more information and to purchase tickets.