Last year’s OD theme was Brexit

It’s Outrageously Grimm in St Leonards

Outrageous Decadence had its very first New Year’s Eve party back in 2010. We had no idea we would still be putting on parties seven years later. Bevali Francis reveals the plans for New Year’s Eve 2017.

The first party came about because a group of us had been having large parties in our homes and we were a bit fed up with the mess but loved to throw a party. Some one mentioned that The Masonic Hall in St Leonards had been let down and that the hall was available New Year’s Eve. We went along to see the venue and talk to 3 Degree Catering who run the venue. They said we could have the hall for free if we were running the party for charity. We found our first charity to donate to and naively set about creating the very best party we could.

Our budget was zero we had no funds so we made the props and sets from cardboard, skip finds and old junk we had laying around. Each of us had different skills, making, playing music, performing, organising and generally being creative. The first party cost hardly anything and we decided to name it Outrageous Decadence because it was a good working title and we’d managed to blag a bit of red carpet. We never expected people to turn up in such amazing outfits,the camaraderie and fun we had at that first event surprised us all. We were taken aback that we actually made a small amount of money and all of the money went to our chosen charity of the time. Since we’ve started raising money for local charities and good causes we have donated £8600.

After the first party we were hooked and we’ve putting on at least one to two events a year. The original crew of people has changed over the years, but our mission to deliver an outrageously good time at New Year remains constant. We’ve had amazing support from all kinds of people who have done things for nothing. Each year people have donated time and skills for free and often it costs them money to do. Our guests get a lot of party for their money!

Every party has been different and yet each one has some great memorable moments, like the smashing the massive piñata of Kate and Wills made by Rachael House, the Mayan Temple ritual by Alice Turner, Gob sausage in the boxing ring, John Knowles as the Devil cycling a chopper bike, aerial acrobatics, Vile Electrodes, Chalkwell Ladies Drum and Bass League, Cheap Thrills Bingo and summertime special fashion show, the list is endless. My favourite comment about the party was from a lady in the Horse and Groom who said “ I will go to my grave laughing about that party, it was the best party I’ve ever been to”.

It continues to amaze me how generous the people of St Leonards and Hastings are and so many people come forward to help for free , I can only think it’s because they enjoy the party so much. One year a lot of the hungover party goers turned up to help tidy just because they could and I don’t know her name but the woman who liked hoovering and spent hours clearing glitter was a true hero. (Editor’s note: It was Rachel Holtom!)

We are aware our themes have caused controversy with some but they have always been chosen with humour in mind and a gentle dig at current affairs. This year’s theme, though, is pure escapism because we all felt it’s what’s needed. Of course we’ll keep it edgy; it’s what we do.

This year the theme is “It’s Grimm in St Leonards”, fairy and folk tales with an Outrageous Decadence twist. We have brilliant performers lined up, great DJs, and our most ambitious set design and lighting yet. We have also got an amazing band as part of the cabaret. So if you fancy a night of enchanted mayhem make sure you buy your ticket soon as they are already selling and to get the best from the whole evening get there early because the entertainment starts as soon as you enter the building. It’s not to be missed.

Outrageous Decadece always sells out, so get your ticket NOW!
You can buy tickets at Substance in Robertson Street, or online here.

Also in: One Long Party