His credentials in the world of children’s entertainment are equally impressive. For the last two years he has provided all the entertainment for the annual children’s charity bash at No. 11, Downing Street.

If money is no object, there are few boundaries to what Oscar’s Den can provide; for example, they’ve been known to lay on a roomful of pinball machines in a private house, a funfair and even a live elephant for a children’s party in Hampstead. "The elephant wasn’t anywhere near as expensive as you’d imagine," says Oscar. "The party business is a huge growth industry. Ten years ago there were three kid’s party planners. Now there are 33."

Oscar’s Den can lay on an entire party, with food, impresarios and all the trimmings. "Parents who don’t want to get involved will give you a budget and say, Just do it". But the shop can be a source of inspiration if you’re self-catering too. Oscar emphasises that his services aren’t only tailored to meet the needs of a niche market. "If you merely want to rent a high chair, or buy a Barmitzvah balloon, we can do it."

Children’s entertainers, including puppeteers, jugglers, face painters, ballooners, clowns and Magic Circle Magicians, start at £95 for one hour, £125 for two.

Rental prices on equipment start from as little as 50p per item for small chairs, and £10 plus VAT for small toys like a rocking horse or tunnel, rising to £75 plus VAT for an eight-in-one adjustable playground.

There’s a wide range of inflatables, ball ponds (from £40 plus VAT) and bouncy castles (from £35 - £95 plus VAT). Delivery and collection costs from £15, or visit the store in person.

They also provide year-round fireworks, helium gas cylinders (from £25 plus VAT) and all you’ll ever need for a seriously tasteless millennium party, including snazzy nail polish, poppers and tinsel wigs.

Time Out, July 1999.

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