If the intangible feel-good factor is the sort of thing you’re after, then I am delighted to introduce a revamped venue.

Hysteria is at the heart of Dalston, under the baton of Leo Belicha, a promoter par excellence: many a good time will be had.

Leo is as skilled at throwing a great club night for hundreds (remember Caligula?) as he is in turning his front room into an impromptu wild party, struggling to stay on the right side of respectable. (In fact, respectable folk would probably dub it decadent). Leo also likes serious conversation. As I recall it, it was Kafka on his side table last time I was at his. Last but not least, he hails from Brazil. Seeing him working his magic as a host over the years, I’ve noticed how hospitable he was – a trait that he only could have picked from his family (as it couldn’t have been from running clubs in London or New York). And of course, there is a carnival hint that he occasionally throws in. That’s definitely from home. Put all these elements together and you’ll get a sense for what’s in store.

Hysteria will be a place for the more discerning reveller, a ‘factory of ideas and creative minds’. Expect a lot of names from arts, fashion, music, who are first and foremost friends, so they’ll be dropping by, performing in some way or another. Disco Bloodbath, The Lovely Jonjo, Pandora’s Box, Nathan Gregory Wilkins, Mathew Stone, Basso and Brooke are all lined up – just to give you a flavour.

Talking of flavours, Hysteria also has a restaurant. Food will be taken care of by Elaine Chalmers, the owner of one of my favourite restaurants in London, A Little of What You Fancy. Flavours at the bar will be provided courtesy of Stav Bee, a unique lady cocktail maker. Hysteria Daiquiri is the house signature cocktail - rum based with guava juice and lime.

Check out the opening night for friends and family from a few days ago here.

...................................................................................................................
COMPETITION: Win complimentary Daiquiri cocktails with a guest to mark the start of Fashion Week on Feb the 17th (Free Entry). To enter the competition, send an email to jamie@run-riot.com with the correct answer in the ‘subject’ box. The winner will be randomly selected.

Q: What is the first name of the Brazilian half of fashion designer duo Basso and Brooke?
A: .1) Bruno .2) Leo .3) Pele