You won’t need to make an international prank call to get the lowdown on the next royal happening as we have all the news on Kensington Palace’s Midwinter Ball right here. Taking place this Thursday, it’s an all-singing, all-dancing concoction of klezmer, cabaret and close-up magic.
Guaranteed to get the party started, the Trans-Siberian March Band are a 13-piece East European brass ensemble who mash Balkan, Turkish and ska influences into footstompers of the fearsome variety. Alongside them, Julian Gaskell & his Ragged Trousered Philanthropists will be inciting revolution within the regal surroundings with punk accordion, surf klezmer and a decidedly anarchic take on balladry. Those looking for more traditional hoofing can seek out The Last Tuesday Society's classical DJ Troylus Searll or the Latin-infused guitar and violin tunes of Con Fuoco Duo.
As well as these musical floor-fillers, three very different cabaret stars will be on hand. The Irrepressible Mr Flay (Edwin to his friends) is the dapper escapologist who uses wit, skill and dexterity to wriggle free of handcuffs. Alternatively, peer closely at Michael Coffey, the self-styled London Magician, as he demonstrates his sleight of hand.
Stand well back if seeing the third cabaret act. Shimmying wildly inside a flaming hula hoop, Anna The Hulagan is a lady with no shortage of admirers; these include the judges of this year’s World Burlesque Games who awarded her the Triple Crown in the face of tough competition.
Leave the jeans at home and glam it up: masks are expected and the dress code is “Snow Queens and Jack Frosts”. A ticket will set you back £20.
Midwinter Ball at Kensington Palace is on Thursday 13 December from 7.30pm till 11.30pm.
