After enjoying White Mischief so much in March, I returned this weekend to see what they’d come up with for Halloween.

The steampunk extravaganza had a great line-up of entertainment including comedian Nina Conti, singer David McAlmont and neo-burlesque artist Empress Stah.

I was happily surprised that my very favourite cabaret entertainer Dusty Limits was hosting the evening. As usual, he had the best make up, songs and jokes and almost made me want the main acts off the stage so I could see more of him!

We also had lots of fun watching Mac Abbe et le Zombi Orchestra, meeting a man-eating plant and dancing to a few golden oldies in the Devil’s Dance room.

So what did my fellow White Mischief-goers think of the night?

“What a great evening. I was amazed by the effort that everyone had put into their costumes. Imagination was certainly not in short supply.  I’ll definitely be back. Well done White Mischief!”
Gillian, 29, Herne Hill

“White Mischief wins! Fabulous night, loved the costumes and the varied wacky entertainment, didn’t love the sore feet from too much dancing.”
Nic, 31, Shoreditch

“A good time had by all. Full marks to the David Bowie impersonator for his costume.”
Ben, 28

“Any Halloween event that promises a “Zombi Orchestra” is clearly looking to make a big impact, and White Mischief didnt disappoint. The evening had a great atmosphere and some brilliant live acts, and was really made by the effort that guests went to with fancy dress. There can’t be many events where David Bowie can be found cavorting next to a zebra….” Sarah, 27, Essex

What did you do for Halloween?

The dress code was described as “neo-Victorian… scientists, explorers, and exhibitionists.” This still didn’t give us many clues as to what we should wear, although a friend assured us goggles were key. We couldn’t find any of those in the charity shops of Clapham, but it didn’t matter because as soon as we entered Scala, it was clear that steampunk attire covers a lot more.

We saw top hats, moustaches, military attire, pipes, corsets and admittedly, goggles and tweed. Dress-up isn’t compulsory at White Mischief, but you’d feel pretty silly if you turned up in jeans and a t-shirt. Steampunks take dressing up seriously and I was hugely impressed by the amazing costumes.

The best thing about White Mischief was the atmosphere and the variety of entertainment. Despite the effort that had gone into people’s costumes, everyone seemed relaxed and friendly.

Unlike many club nights, you don’t just turn up and spend the next few hours on the dance floor, there are lots of other distractions. From Victorian curiosities such as a flea circus, to a steampunk fair where you could buy jewellery, comics and more steampunk-inspired souvenirs.

White Mischief didn’t feel like a club, it was more like interactive theatre. We loved the entertainment, including the fantastic Oompah Brass band (singing along to oompah Bohemian Rhapsody was a real highlight); Voltini the electrocuting scientist (conducting electricity through some unmentionable body parts); burlesque from Beau Burlington (who managed to shed enough clothing weight to take off in an air balloon); and a chainsaw-juggling pirate!

So I’m a convert, I will definitely go to White Mischief’s next party, I’m already planning my outfit…