The Art of Elegance: An 18th-century lady prepares for a Twelfth Night ball

Step into the glittering world of 18th-century high society! A formal party in the 18th century was more than just an evening soiree for women of means. A good part of the day was spent preparing, because one could not be seen by their peers to be anything less than spectacular. Join Michele Gabrielson as we dress for the Twelfth Night ball marking the end of the Christmas season.

Michele Gabrielson is a local history teacher and historic interpreter of the 18th century. She specializes in colonial women printers, 18th-century chocolate makers, and revolutionary playwright and poet Mercy Otis Warren. Michele serves on several historical committees dedicated to helping preserve the history of colonial America, is a member of the Authenticity Standards Committee for Minuteman National Historic Park, and is the coordinator for the Battle Road Guides for the annual reenactment of the Battle of Lexington and Concord. She was recently awarded a 2024 Rising Star Award for Public History by the Massachusetts History Alliance for her programming titled, The Revolutionary Classroom, and named a finalist for 2024 Massachusetts History Teacher of the Year.

Seats are limited, so signup by calling 781-893-9020 or emailing info@walthammuseum.org with name, phone number, email and number of participants. Parking available in the public parking garage directly across from the Waltham Museum.