Alex Proud’s start came in the 1990’s, when he was working
selling Rolls Royces to the Russian mafia. Seeking something perhaps a bit less
risky, he soon transitioned to Japanese art, opening his first gallery to deal
in that niche market. Thus, Proud Group was born. However, the field of
Japanese art was not as lucrative as could be desired. Collectors of rare
Japanese art were few and far between, and the sticker price did not quite make
up for the meager market. That was when Alex Proud had the chance to meet
Dennis Morris. Dennis Morris is a renowned photographer, most famous for
touring with Bob Marley before Morris had even turned 17 years old. In addition
to Bob Marley, his work featured the Sex Pistols, another rock icon. These
images inspired Proud, who quickly had his first photography exhibition, and
the Proud Galleries soon took off.
Fast forward a few years and the galleries soon had some
additional features. Guests could now view art, then enjoy a meal at the
adjoining restaurant. But that is not all: the restaurant featured live
entertainment. Namely, of the burlesque variety.
This entertainment was soon a huge hit all on its own, apart
from the galleries, and two more followed after the opening of the original
restaurant, which are now referred to as the Proud Cabaret. There are three
locations: City, Camden, and Brighton. The interior design of each supper club
is reminiscent of the glitz and glamour of the 1920’s, while the entertainment
features everything from circus-style nights, to murder mysteries, to raunchy
variety performances. The Proud brand has entertainment to suit virtually any
taste, from the refined to the naughty. Additionally, guests can visit the
Proud Camden Bar, which is a live music venue set in an old horse hospital.
Guests can even rent the stables of the former tenants for lunches, small
gatherings, or to have a place to escape during the evenings’ performances.
Admission from the Proud Cabaret Camden includes admission to the club, meaning
guests can try their own moves on the dance floor after seeing how it is done
at the cabaret.
