The Summer Extravaganza

Number 45, Autumn 2025

Amy Oliver

On Saturday 26 July, Gray’s Inn members and their guests stepped back in time at the Summer Extravaganza, exchanging the 2020s for the 1920s in all their glitz and glamour!

Three people smiling to camera. The man on the left wears a suit and bow-tie. The two women on the right wear 1920's themed sequin dresses.

Two people dancing. The man on the left wears a suit and bow-tie. The woman on the right wears a light blue dress.

Two people smiling and raising their glasses to camera. The man on the left wears a white suite with a hat. The woman on the right wears a dark dress with a white hat.

The Walks were bedecked in shimmering gold as dapper and flapper partygoers enjoyed Searcy’s champagne reception, accompanied by smooth jazz from the Sunshine Kings band, which included a 100-year old Sousaphone. Members, guests and staff rose to the occasion with extravagant outfits reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties: colourful waistcoats, feathers, pearls, gloves, hats and canes could be seen all around, and the Treasurer was sparkling in silver sequins.

As the sun went down, the Walks were transformed into a wonderland of nostalgia, with 1920s-inspired dinner choices, funfair stalls and a traditional carousel. Inside the Marquee, guests were entertained by the exuberant Champagne Charlie, the tuneful Elise Roth and her High Standards, and the charming Gatsby Girls dancing the night away. After a chance to enjoy the themed cocktails (another ‘Zelda’s Kiss’ or ‘Snail in the Glass’, anyone?) the live auction was held, and the highest bidders walked away with prizes such as holidays, vintage jewellery and a personalised song, all donated by members. As the music started back up, those with energy left to spare headed to the dancefloor, before finishing off with a breakfast bun at midnight.

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The Treasurer called to the Bar 78 members of the Inn in late July. As has become a new convention for Trinity Call, the ceremony of Call took place in…

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Scroll through the picture gallery to see highlights from the Treasurer’s Reception.

Inn & About

Gray’s Inn has received a new portrait of Lord Slynn of Hadley GBE (not shown here), donated by his family, honouring his distinguished career in European Law and as a judge. This issue also reflects on the passing of Master Terence Etherton (pictured), and highlights recent events at the Inn. From lectures and reunions to long-service celebrations, the Inn continues to blend tradition with community spirit.

Late Master Terence Etherton stood with his arm towards his portrait which has a painting of him in his robes, with a gold frame. Master Etherton is wearing a suit and red tie.

From the Treasurer

Master Geraldine Andrews I am often asked the well-meaning but misguided question: ‘how are you enjoying being Treasurer?’ Being Treasurer is not about having a good time, as the question…

Summer Extravaganza photo gallery

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