The Last Days of Decadence

The Last Days of Decadence

08 September, 2009
by: Gemma Bergomi

If you have been down Shoreditch High Street you will probably agree with me that it isn't really the most glamorous place in London, that is, until you take a step into the newly reformed The Last Days of Decadence for a cocktail and some cabaret, which is exactly what I'm up to this Saturday night.

We step into a building that from the outside looks much like every other one down the street. It is recognisable as a venue only from the queue and a couple of smokers hanging around outside. However, once inside you feel like you're in a completely different world, a place where every woman is classy and all the men are dapper.  In other words, it's as if the eighties never happened.

Comprising two floors, the top floor of The Last Days of Decadence is a more chilled waiting area whilst downstairs is a stage in front of the dance floor, which quickly fills as the night progresses and suddenly gets really rammed once the acts make their way on stage. There are also two bars (wahey!) with a vast range of cocktails for you to deliberate over. Although they are slightly pricey, they have quite a selection and there is definitely something for everyone whether it is a 1920s prohibition themed cocktail or one of the their special collection cockteas.

Tonight's line up includes Des O'Connor as the host, burlesque beauties Chrys Columbine and Vicky Butterfly alongside music from The Correspondents. Starting the night off, Des O'Connor quickly saunters through his inspirational song 'Jizz Mopper' on the Ukulele about a young man finding his calling in life, alongside some other comic tunes that are equally crude and entertaining.

Of course, it is a burlesque night and Vicky Butterfly alongside Chrys Columbine are mesmerising with their performances, but for me The Correspondents are the stars of the night. A mixture of 1920s swing and modern rap they exemplify what Last Days of Decadence and the neo-cabaret scene that is hitting London at the moment is all about.

With different acts every Saturday The Last Days of Decadence has definitely won me over. It's a surprisingly stylish bar with welcoming staff and a great variety of performances each week. Even if you are not a fan of burlesque or cabaret, there is always the option to stay upstairs and hang out at the bar.

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Gemma Bergomi