The Orchestra

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See the facade of the orchestra shine

The Orchestra opened on the 3rd June 1735, marking the first night of the season.

The first original piece of architecture at Vauxhall, the new open-air bandstand stood two storeys high. Supported by Doric columns, the upper floor consisted of an octagonal ‘room’ enclosed by eight arches and illuminated by a chandelier, with space for approximately 30 musicians.

Permanent buildings designed specifically for the performance of music outdoors were unknown at this time in England. Initially, the novelty of an open-air concert was well received, though a month into the season improvements became necessary. Proprietor of the Gardens, Jonathan Tyers removed several trees, arranging tables in the openings to improve the acoustics for his guests.

Launch our AR experience to see the facade of the orchestra sparkle and shine. Reveal the magical atmosphere of an evening at Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens. Watch for dancing couples and colourful twinkling lights as you immerse yourself in the party.

How to use the filter

Find the QR code located in Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens using the map below
Scan the QR code using the camera function on your smartphone
Ensure your volume is turned up to hear atmospheric sounds, music, and stories
Click ‘Open Instagram Filter’ to launch the AR experience on Instagram
Tag @beinvauxhall if you share your photos on Instagram

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See all our interactive filters

Madame Saqui

Madame Saqui was a famous tightrope walker who performed at Vauxhall Gardens in the 18th century. She was the

Madame Saqui

Imagine the burst of fireworks and bustle of the audience as you watch Madame Saqui perform above you in mesmerising AR.
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Sarah Hengler

Sparkle like Sarah Hengler with her firework headdress selfie filter. Shine bright as the fireworks pop, crack and fizz in the background.
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Mademoiselle Caroline

Choreograph your own dancing horse routine by trying out the different moves and watch your horse prance and dance!
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Isaac Van Amburgh

Don’t forget to strike a pose as you put yourself in Van Amburgh's shoes and relive the American animal trainer’s daring trick!
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Charles Green

Can you guide Green’s balloon through the skies while steering clear of the clouds in this soaring AR game?
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Lily Savage

Celebrate the great Paul O’Grady with this iconic AR wall mural of Lily Savage, remember to keep your volume high!
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William Henry Lane

Try and keep up with William Henry Lane’s footwork, as an animated AR version of the famous tap dancer performs before you!
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C.H. Simpson

Embrace your inner Victorian as C. H. Simpson bows, tips his hat, and ushers you through to the Gardens in AR.
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The Gardens in 3D

Explore the AR 3D model to see how the Gardens were once laid out with intricate avenues and archways, very different from today.
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The Dark Walk

Launch the AR experience to cast your eye over the beautiful architecture revealed, passing high society families and would-be lovers.
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The Orchestra

Launch our AR experience to see the facade of the orchestra sparkle and shine, day and night.
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Balloon Mural

Try and resist joining the historical figures as they dance and fill up the street in an AR ball worth envying!
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