The Orphanage Masked Ball

Formerly the Hendrick's Masked Ball, its new incarnation throws an autumn special in this member's club off The Strand before their two huge extravaganzas on Halloween and the eve of New Year's Eve. No doubt there'll be just enough room to swing a cat (these dress-up nights are incredibly popular) as they cram the space with eclectic live music and cabaret from the likes of Ska Cubano, Earl Okin, The Urban Voodoo Machine, Mac Abbe et le Zombie Orchestra, while the DJs including original bad boy about town Wade Crescent, Larry Tee, Penny Metal and Troylus Seall spin anything from swing and gothica to gypsy. And there's even the usual exotic and beautifully vulgar performance and interactive antics including burkha bondage, vegetable animals and a dungeon. DC: Strictly the finest (debauched) attire; naked people must be painted; you will be fined £10 if you turn up without a mask or wear street clothes.