Fans of the Netflix show were told to expect an evening of “sophistication, grace and historical charm” but the only entertainment on offer was a stripper
Netflix have been told to green light a new documentary after Bridgerton fans were left fuming over a themed ball that failed to live up to any expectations and cost them hundreds of pounds.
Pictures were posted on social media of the event which was apparently advertised as an opportunity to “step into the enchanting world of the Regency-era…for an evening of sophistication, grace and historical charm.”
However, for those who actually attended, it seemed that grace was left at the door of the Michigan-based venue.
The Hollywood Reporter claims that costumed attendees were left sitting on the floor, with KitKats the only food on offer to buy and the entertainment consisted of – one stripper.
It immediately gained comparisons to the unofficial Willy Wonka experience that captured the world’s imaginations earlier this year.
One person who planned to attend the event, but couldn’t make it due to illness, said they grew suspicious after they were refused a refund following their change in circumstances.
The event was not affiliated with Netflix, although the streaming platform does host a touring Bridgerton experience event called The Queen’s Ball.
This was instead billed as Detroit Bridgerton Themed Ball and cost between $150 and $1,000 for a ticket.
Videos were posted to TikTok of the shambolic event with one claiming raw chicken was dished out to guests and that servers had even reused cups for drinks.
Bridgerton fans around the world were furious on the attendees behalf with many replying to posts on social media to talk about the situation.
One said: “The sad part is, the guests all looked phenomenal and clearly really wanted this event. Even saw some people arriving in horse and carriage. I hope everyone gets their money back. This is insane.”
Another suggested that the topic was prime for the documentary treatment of which Netflix has become associated with.
They said: “Netflix made a docunmentary on Fyre Festival, now they should do a series on the Willy Wonka experience and this Bridgerton Ball.”
Have yall seen those videos on tiktok of the scam Bridgerton Ball in Detroit?! They hired a damn STRIPPER for entertainment!!! Omg!!! 🙃 pic.twitter.com/YIlipIRlSE
— 𝐑𝐡𝐞𝐚🌿 (@RheaMorris_) September 24, 2024
Thread about the Bridgerton Ball SCAM in Detroit that I (and hundreds of others) spent $300 on pic.twitter.com/EUgX482w8j
— Rachel Eaton @ Realta (@rayleearts) September 24, 2024
In a report for a local TV news station, one person attending said: “The way it was described was this would be [a] Bridgerton event and we were going to have classical music, a good dinner, and there was going to be a play.”
Another person also took to Reddit to discuss their experience. They said: “My family and I just left the Detroit Bridgerton Ball.
“It was absolutely HORRENDOUS. There was nowhere to sit. Although the venue was nice, the decor was sparse and extremely tacky. It wasn’t even Bridgerton themed! We spent $400 on tickets for a complete bs experience!”
The organiser, Uncle N Me LLC, later released a statement which 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 apologize.
“Our intention was to provide a magical evening, but we recognize that organizational challenges affected the enjoyment of some guests. We take full responsibility and accountability for these shortcomings.
“Please know that we are working diligently to address all concerns to ensure that all guests have the enjoyable experience they deserve …we are committed to doing everything in our power to make this right.”
