Bridgerton fans have been left angry after a ball based on the hit Netflix show failed to deliver. The unofficial Bridgerton ball, which took place on Sunday (September 22) in Detroit, promised Regency glamour, with ballroom dancing and music.
The event, which was not endorsed by or associated with Netflix or Shondaland, has since gone viral on social media, with ticket holders complaining that they were instead greeted by undercooked food and a pole dancer.
The original advert for the ball invited fans to “step into the enchanting world of the Regency era at the Detroit Bridgerton-themed ball”, adding: “Join us for an evening of sophistication, grace, and historical charm. Experience a night like no other filled with music, dance, and exquisite costumes.”
But many of those who attended the ball are now calling for refunds, sharing photos and videos on social media of the ball. One such photo shows a woman, dressed in her finest Bridgerton-inspired outfit, sitting on the floor while scrolling on her phone.
Another shows a solo violinist performing – despite guests being told there would be a full orchestra playing. The ball also featured a pole-dancing stripper, with one disgruntled TikTok user writing: “They hired a stripper, we were promised an instrumental performance.”
Screenshots of tickets to the event have also been shared online, showing prices starting at around $150. Those who opted for the ‘Duke and Duchess’ package, including dinner, paid more.
The meal was another point of contention, however, with attendees claiming they were served undercooked food. One wrote: “Chicken was undercooked and pasta was cold. By the time I got a plate they were running out of food.” Others said the food was “terrible”, and that there wasn’t enough for all the attendees.
One disappointed attendee posted a picture of the outfit that she “wasted” at the event, adding: “I was ready to be diamond of the season. I left early.”
Another claimed that most people had left the venue by 9pm, commenting: “I’ve seen kids parties that look better. It was bare and ugly.”
Spectators on social media have compared the Bridgerton ball to other viral flops, including the infamous Fyre festival, as well as the more recent Willy Wonka experience in Glasgow.
In a statement to WXYZ-TV, Uncle & Me LLC said: “We understand that not everyone had the experience they hoped for at our most recent event Sunday night at The Harmonie Club, and for that, we sincerely apologise.
“Our intention was to provide a magical evening, but we recognise that organizational challenges affected the enjoyment of some guests. We take full responsibility and accountability for these shortcomings.” The company said it was working to address all concerns raised by guests, adding: “We are reviewing resolution options, which will be communicated shortly.”