Bringing the 18th century ballroom experience to modern times

The Covent Garden Minuet Company is a convivial group of men and women based in central London. We learn 18th century social dances and perform them in authentic costume to magnificent baroque music, recapturing the charm and playfulness of the Georgian ballroom. We also perform historical comic scenes, teach people how to flirt with a fan, and bring to life many other 18th century forms of entertainment!

The era is known for neat elegance but also boisterous fun, and both are reflected in the popular dances of the time. Styles like the minuet, sarabande and bourrée – with their distinctive rhythms and intricate geometric patterns – allowed fashionable dancers to show off their fine technique and graceful bearing. But later in the evening, everyone could join in the simpler and more lively contradanses - a rare opportunity to socialise and flirt, unrestrained by chaperones!

Although these dances appeared at court balls, provincial assembly rooms and private parties across Europe and its colonies for more than 250 years, they're now all but forgotten. We find them fascinating, challenging and enchanting - and so, a stone's throw from the site of some of the first performances, we bring them back to life.

Book us for your 18th century event

We love getting into costume and entertaining audiences with our dances, and over the past 40-odd years have been fortunate enough to perform at some stunning venues. We're always looking for opportunities to dance, so please do get in touch.

Find out more about booking The Covent Garden Minuet Company.

Join us to learn 18th century dances 

If you're interested in becoming a member of the group, we'd be delighted to hear from you. You don't need to have any dance experience, just enthusiasm and a desire to learn. We're a friendly bunch and happy to answer any questions you may have.

Find out more about being a member