Cirque Du Soir has moved from its previous base in Mayfair to take up a larger residency in Ganton Street, Soho. Offering a circus atmosphere of fire-eaters, bejeweled trapeze artists, contortionists and burlesque, this is one of the most outlandish club experiences in town.

The Venue
The new entrance is just a short walk from Carnaby Street, and on your way in you'll pass a gravity-defying throne with a painted clown’s face and freakish fairground mirrors lining the walls. The main space has a large seated area which is booked in advance by club VIPs and those wishing to get as close to the performers as possible, and there’s a rectangular stage positioned in the middle of this. Additional alcove seating and a sleek, long bar give way to a corridor housing an authentic popcorn cart, candy-floss machine and an area for tarot readers and a glamorous make-up artist. If you arrive early you can see her working her magic on the faces and bodies of the performers and, for a few quid, she will carefully give guests a makeover too.

The Atmosphere
A glamorous crowd filters through the door by either membership or advance guest-list. Some pay homage to the circus atmosphere with their carefully chosen fancy dress and staff are helpful, multi-lingual and beautiful. Hosts are on hand to guide you to your table.

When the highly anticipated performances are announced, the carnival begins. It’s a surreal scene where a transsexual burlesque dancer writhes in time to the drummer’s beats alongside a fire-eating clown and huge grotesque costumed characters.

The Music
Resident DJs and occasional guest DJs spin soulful tunes via a very respectable sound system, pausing only when the ringmaster announces the performances and then it’s back to a pulsating thud that leaves your ears ringing the day after.

The Drink
Naturally, table service is provided. Ice buckets and sparkling glasses adorn the tabletops and bottles are delivered to you by a troupe of busboys and performers who arrive with bottles flaring with sparklers. Bottles of champagne start around the £200 mark, although a vodka and mixer cost a much more palatable £10.

The Last Word
Cirque Du Soir’s new home is bigger and just as outlandish as ever. With a forthcoming tour taking in some of the world’s most exclusive destinations and a new Cirque Soir planned in Dubai, one thing’s for certain: a night in the company of this lot may leave you wanting to run away with the circus.

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