The Brief

We were contacted by Gloucester Cathedral to support the most ambitious and high-profile fundraising dinner ever produced at the Cathedral. The event featured Their Royal Highnesses Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, with a stunning dinner held in the nave of this iconic venue, beneath the extraordinary Mars artwork by Luke Jerram. Funds raised were dedicated to the Cathedral’s In Tune Organ and Music Campaign.

The Solution

An invitation-only private dinner was held beneath the Mars installation on its final night at the Cathedral. The event design offered a unique event venue experience, creating a breathtaking and intimate setting to impress, entertain, and honour invited guests with a once-in-a-lifetime evening.

Seventy-two guests were welcomed with a candlelit drinks reception in the awe-inspiring Gloucester Cathedral, dramatically cleared and set in total darkness. Dining tables were elegantly arranged in the heart of this sacred space, directly beneath the glowing Mars artwork.

The music department provided an exquisite atmosphere, with a piano recital during the reception and a small choir processing guests to dinner by candlelight. Guests were greeted by an enchanting and intimate candlelit dining experience, featuring sleek mirrored tables that reflected the planet above, gleaming tableware, and flickering candles.

A sumptuous five-course meal with paired wines was punctuated by musical interludes, with singers performing in solitary pools of light, taking full advantage of the Cathedral’s natural acoustics. The finale featured the Gloucester Choral Society, brilliantly lit and singing from the organ loft directly in front of the guests, followed by an address from the Dean of Gloucester, who passionately explained the fundraising goals of the In Tune Organ Campaign.

Event Planning

Oasis Events worked closely with the Cathedral’s development and operations teams to deliver this exceptional evening. Every detail was carefully planned and risk assessed to protect the historic venue. Unusual event logistics included food preparation in the neighbouring school kitchen, with plating done in the Cathedral’s famous cloisters (featured in Harry Potter films), and managing candles that burned quickly due to the Cathedral’s built-in moisture vents.

Our experienced team ensured seamless execution, resulting in wonderful feedback from dignitaries, guests, and the Cathedral team:

“Just a note to say, on behalf of all of us, thank you so much for such a wonderful evening last night. It was so well organised and ran beautifully. Food and drink were absolutely delicious, music sublime, and the building was looking the best I’ve ever seen it. We’ve had some wonderful comments from guests already and lots of lovely donation pledges. The evening was a real success.”
— Chloe Bridgen, Head of Development

Host Your Event at Gloucester Cathedral

The Cathedral is available for private hire for those seeking a unique event venue to surprise and delight their guests. Contact us today to explore hosting your luxury event, candlelit dinner, or fundraising gala in this extraordinary space.

Photography

Photography by Cotswold interior and architecture photographer Mark Nicholson.