Overview
- Director Nicholas Cullinan proposed a red, white and blue theme tied to the Union Flag and French tricolore to mark the Bayeux Tapestry loan from Normandy.
- Some curatorial and administrative staff called the theme in poor taste given this year's flag-hoisting campaigns, one of which accepted a donation from far-right party Britain First.
- A museum spokesperson confirmed a follow-up fundraising ball for autumn 2026 and said further details will be announced in due course.
- The inaugural pink-themed ball in October drew about 8,000 attendees paying around £2,000 each and secured over £2.5m for international partnerships.
- Commentators are split, with Prof Nick Groom urging the museum to proceed, while campaign group Culture Unstained criticises links to patrons associated with fossil-fuel wealth.