Fetish Ball ’97 “Kinky Karnival” El Rey Theater, Los Angeles, July 26, 1997

On July 26th 1997, ESP presented it’s Seventh Annual Fetish Ball at The El Rey Theater in the historic Miracle Mile District of Los Angeles. This years ball was themed for the first time. The theme Kinky Karnival, was a tremendous success. Although this year’s venue was smaller and accommodated less people, the organizers were able to regain the purity of the event. A strict dress code and the theme of the party provided for some truly titillating and creative costumes.

The circus and sideshow performers perpetuated the theme throughout the night. Trapeze acts and stilt walkers were a definite highlight. The crowd was enthralled by the intense human suspension performed by Primeval Body. Dark Gardens closed the nights performances with their amazing fashion show. DJ Tony K. kept the crowd jumping and pumped until almost 4am with electrifying pounding sounds.

History of the Fetish Ball

The Fetish Ball began in 1991 when ESP threw a Halloween party at the Probe. It was fantastic with 900 people attending. That success enticed us to begin an annual tradition. The 2nd & 3rd parties were held in July and were called the Ball Bizarre. To add to the elegance of the event, we moved to the Park Plaza Hotel. In 1994, we changed the name to the FETISH BALL. Each year the response has compounded, with 1995 surpassing all previous years. 1,700 people savored the experience. Then in 1996 we felt compelled to increase the splendor by presenting the Fetish Ball in the lavish and exquisite surroundings of the Variety Arts Center. Our continued participation in the scene has rewarded us greatly with quality entertainment, cutting edge designers and resplendently bedecked patrons.

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