Deep within the dark hollows of Sultan Shaharyar's Palace, the narrator of all tales speaks in glimmering tones. Fate has dealt her a terrible curse: in Shaharyar's wild bitterness, each maiden to decorate his chambers shall die at dawn. But Scheherazade faces no execution.
One night and then a thousand more pass, as stories of mystery, of magic, of beauty and awe come alive at her lips. Each one is tantalizingly unfinished, to be continued at dusk, until finally the Sultan is wooed into submission.
Come into Scheherazade's world. Step inside the palace. One thousand and one nights of Arabia, all the tales of the East, are yours to explore. For tonight.
Current students, fellows and staff of the rest of the University
From 00:01, 15th of February until 23:59, 21st of February, the ticketing system will be opened for current students, fellows and staff of the rest of the University of Cambridge. Application for tickets should be made through http://tickets.claremayball.com/ during this period of time.
Please note the following:
If you are hoping to both perform at and attend the ball this year you must still apply for a ticket.
Successful application for tickets does not constitute confirmation of ticket allocation.
You will be able to apply for up to seven guest tickets as well as your own. You and any guests for whom you apply will form a group.
During allocation tickets will be offered either to all of your group, or none of your group. Groups will not be split.
Group size does not affect the ticket allocation process.
Tickets will only be allocated to non-Clare applicants of the University once applications from Clare applicants and their guests have been satisfied.
Ticket allocation to groups will be made randomly. Group size does not affect the ticket allocation process. The time of application within the above week period does not affect the ticket allocation process.
You must able to authenticate yourself electronically by holding a valid Raven account in order to proceed with application for ticket/tickets.
Fancy an extravagant and unforgettable start to the ball this year? As a VIP you will be punted into Clare where you will enjoy a delectable gastronomic spread, chilled champagne and our finest entertainment acts. Be the first into the ball, arrive in style and treasure incredible memories.
Entertainment
Scheherazade has called on the finest talent from around the kingdom to keep the Sultan entertained for A Thousand and One Nights. On a summery eve in June, the gates of the palace will open to a lucky few as they are given till dawn to unveil the secrets within. With over six stages of entertainment, and the elegant grounds of the Sultan's palace teeming with tireless performers, get ready for the magic of Arabia to inebriate your soul. Explore live music ranging from traditional Sufi tones to the atmospheric sounds of the future; surrender your body to the pulsating beats of Scheherazade's heart; and let your senses be wowed by a spectacle of entertainment like no other.
Surrender your senses to the flavours of the East on your journey to farthest Arabia.
Savour the aroma of the finest spices as you sample traditional delicacies of Persia and the Levant, complemented by luxurious desserts and professionally crafted cocktails. On a night gilt with incense, take refreshment with luscious fruit juices and fragrant Turkish delight, or submit to the temptation of classic hog roasts and silky chocolate fountains.
An abundance of Halal and vegetarian food will be available, and breakfast options will provide all with sustenance to the breaking of dawn.
Sponsorship
Would you like to be involved with Clare May Ball 2010? You could have your business promoted to the many guests who attend the ball and also enjoy exposure to the thousands of students at Cambridge. We offer fantastic options for sponsorship at Clare May Ball. Contact us to find out more about this incredible opportunity. We would like to thank our current sponsors: Lafayette, Hidden Rooms and Moss Bros suit hire, for their support.