An enchanting Christmas experience inspired by the timeless tale of Sleeping Beauty will come to Waddesdon Manor this winter. From Friday 15 November 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025 the Manor will feature decorated interiors, new light projections on the Manor façade, a glittering light trail through the gardens, and the return of the popular Christmas market.
The story of Sleeping Beauty, as immortalised by Charles Perrault and the Brothers Grimm, has been a source of inspiration for generations through ballet, film, and art. This tale holds a special place for the Rothschild family, who originally built Waddesdon Manor. In 1913, James and Dorothy de Rothschild commissioned the renowned Belarusian artist Léon Bakst to create a series of seven panels depicting scenes from Sleeping Beauty for their London townhouse. These paintings, featuring members of the Rothschild family and their pets, are now housed in the Manor’s Bakst Room. For the festive season, four of these panels will be moved to the Red Ante Room for the first time since their original installation.
Drawing from this artistic heritage, Waddesdon Manor will present a series of festive installations. Tom Piper MBE, a theatre designer known for his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the V&A, will create a new installation in the White Drawing Room. Piper’s notable previous work includes the Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red installation at the Tower of London.
In the Smoking Room, paper artist Andy Singleton will unveil a dragon sculpture, inspired by Disney’s 1959 film version of Maleficent. Returning artists Jane Le Bon and BOSUN will evoke the magic of the Sleeping Beauty story in selected rooms, enhanced by BOSUN’s immersive light and sound installations. Motion graphics designer Jamie Shiels, recognised for his work at Buckingham Palace and the 2012 London Olympics, will transform the Manor’s façade with bespoke projections.
The gardens will feature a light display, including a light tunnel, giant Christmas bauble, pixel trees, and illuminated reindeer. A walk-through installation at the Stables will showcase artworks created by local school children on the theme ‘Happily Ever After,’ with references to other classic fairytales.
The Waddesdon Christmas Fair, running from 15 November to 22 December, will offer a festive shopping experience with artisan stalls and a dedicated Food Village. Visitors can also enjoy a special festive afternoon tea in the Manor Restaurant and explore exclusive homeware, gifts, and Rothschild wines in the gift shops.
For an extended experience, Waddesdon Manor will host late-night openings on every Friday from 22 November to 30 December inclusive, with the grounds open from 12 to 9pm and the House from 12:30 to 8pm.
Pippa Shirley, Director of Waddesdon said, “This year’s festive displays will create a truly magical experience. The Manor’s fairy-tale charm aligns perfectly with the story of Sleeping Beauty and Léon Bakst’s artistry. We are thrilled to see how contemporary designers and artists will bring this enchanting tale to life, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.”
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