T Square 200
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T Square 200 was the name given to the son et lumière event, held in Trafalgar Square on Sunday, October 23, 2005, to mark the bicentenary of the sea battle, the Battle of Trafalgar, fought between the British Royal Navy and the combined navies of France and Spain off Cape Trafalgar, Spain on 21 October 1805 under the command of British Admiral Lord Nelson.
It was a large open air event, to a ticketed audience. Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke of Edinburgh and Prince Michael of Kent joined 10,000 members of the public to witness this commemorative occasion. It opened with a presentation on the importance of the sea and British maritime heritage. The continuing importance of the Royal Navy was emphasised.
The celebration displays included dancing (old naval dances), mock cutlass-fighting, a simulated action by modern Royal Marines, gymnastics and brass band music.
A musical finale was provided by the choir of Newcastle Royal Grammar School and soprano Susan Jiwey. Nelson's Column featured during the evening, with special lighting effects at the end of the show.
The evening's show was preceded by His Royal Highness The Duke of York attending a laying of a wreath at the special commemorative Trafalgar Parade, held in the morning. Over 500 Sea Cadets, joined by platoons from the Royal Navy and the Royal Naval Reserve and accompanied by a Band of HM Royal Marines, formed the parade.
A Service of Commemoration was then held in St Paul's Cathedral, for invited guests. This was attended by their Royal Highnesses The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales (accompanied by the Duchess of Cornwall), The Duke of York, The Princess Royal and Prince Michael of Kent (accompanied by Princess Michael).
