An assembly as glittering as any to be found in the royal courts of Europe gathered in the grounds of Camden on Saturday afternoon. Fairies, fairy godmothers, princesses and even a few princes turned out in their finery at the invitation of the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art to enjoy an afternoon of light refreshments and entertainment.

The gala involved approximately 80 young persons and their escorts (mainly mums, though a few dads tagged along as well). They were personally greeted by Cinderella and then participated in a variety of craft activities before enjoying a viewing of The Princess and the Frog in the Rick Faries Gallery.

While most of the young ladies were far too preoccupied to entertain questions from the press, seven-year-old Zoe Neocleous was happy to share her assessment of the afternoon: "It's a lot of fun." Attending with her young sister, her mummy and grandma, the Bermuda High School student felt the highlight of the afternoon was decorating her crown with a variety of jewels.

Having designed their own tiaras and sceptres, the little princesses tucked into fairy cakes and sparkling drinks, while more robust refreshments were offered to attendant parents.

Though for some of the youngest attendees the film is "rather dark" and "scary", an afternoon of craft and princesses was a young girl's idea of heaven.

One of those who just came for the art activities was six-year-old Kelsey Amos. "The movie's too scary," explained her mum Karen Amos, "but she loves art. Masterworks puts on a great programme."

The princess party was a follow-on from the very successful pirate night held in November 2009. Masterworks marketing and special events co-ordinator, Julie Butler, explained that the themed events were part of the museum's community outreach. Providing specific events for children and their families was creating yet another reason for locals to visit the museum.

The next event will be held in January at the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art. It will take the form of a "High School Musical" themed evening for kids nine to13 years of age. The movie will be shown, and there will be a disco, a craft and light refreshments. Though this special event is for members only, if there are tickets left, they will be offered to the public. Memberships purchased now will be valid through 2012.

Other family events planned for the fall and open to non-members as well as members are the Super Saturdays on September 25, October 30 and November 27 from 10am to 2pm. Admission is free. Call 236-2950 for more information.