Nightlife Agenda Pick of the Week

If the brand-new Carlyle Club wasn't built with Doc Scantlin and His Imperial Palms Orchestra in mind, it may as well have been. Alexandria's new supper club, inspired by legendary art-deco nightspots in New York and Chicago, features beautiful leather banquettes, rich accents and dozens of tables with a view of the stage, which is big-enough for an 18-piece band. That view's important, because Scantlin is the area's consummate showman. Dapper in a tux and tails, he leads his famed orchestra through versions of Cab Calloway and Duke Ellington hits, but also serves as ringmaster for the whole production, which includes songs performed by his wife Chou Chou, whose breathy croon recalls Marilyn Monroe and Betty Boop, and showgirls performing elaborate dance routines. The whole production is one of the most fascinating nights out in Washington. Scantlin will be at the club for two nights this weekend. Admission is $85 for the early 7:30 show and a four-course dinner, while $35 will let you watch you watch from the bar. The late show, which begins at 10 p.m., is $25 for general admission seating. Dress sharp.

This week's Nightlife Agenda column also includes the return of Uncle Q's Living Room, the Thermals, a Dominican-themed party and a pageant for men with outstanding facial hair.

By Fritz Hahn |  November 1, 2007; 12:30 PM ET Bars and Clubs , Music
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