The antics and events at Malinka Max’s New Year’s Eve circus bash, (which just about shut down Hibiscus Island), seem a lot like scenes out of the wildly hilarious movie, The Hangover, right down to the 850 pound Bengal tiger and the proposal just before midnight.   Thank Heaven for our handy, dandy, digital camera, because it took a photo (or twenty) to prove to those who weren’t there (and to ourselves the next morning) that the baby tigers, fire eater, miniature unicorn, acrobats, Bengal tiger, giant python and adorable, tutu-clad monkey (that pulled our hair during the photo op) and couple who got engaged, were not just champagne-induced figments of our imagination. Although, we’re pretty sure you will agree, as you peruse the photos, that certain images are reminiscent of scenes from the movie. Admittedly, most New Year’s Eve parties are tough to piece together the next morning, and are better left undocumented, but Max’s party was one for the books- no expense was spared.  The expansive house and back yard were decked out to resemble a big top, the perfect backdrop for DJ-Diva, Elaine Lancaster, and all types of gorgeous characters: from trapeze artists, to acrobats, clowns and a “tall man” who bounced around on contraptions that were a cross between stilts and pogo sticks.  There was even a girl floating around inside a giant bubble in the pool!

Malinka, a former supermodel, looked stunning in an off-the-shoulder, royal blue sequined mini-dress, with matching feather eyelashes and Fifth Element-style blue wig.  Several of the A-list guests, which included:  Roy and Lea Black, Michael Capponi and Taylor Erickson, Alto Reed and Christiana Van Ryn, Jack Setton, Jerry Chafetz, Ross Yasgur, Julio Iglesias Jr., Michael Valdes, Rich Santelises, Tamar Burton, Beau Beasley and Elliot Monter donned circus-inspired hats and accessories, in keeping with the theme. Elaine Lancaster was joined on-stage by Malinka, Malinka’s mother, Tamara, George Wallner and Buster Cox from Deco Drive, for the countdown to 2010.  The countdown was followed by a fireworks display and hours more of circus fun.

Across the bridge, at the W South Beach, 90210’s AnnaLynne McCord performed hosting duties, alongside her sister, Angel.  McCord counted down to 2010 followed by a performance of “Day and Night” by Kid Cudi (Ah Ah Ah Ah…). Also in attendance were John Legend and girlfriend, Chrissy Teigen.  After the party, the celebs scattered while most of the guests piled into WALL, to party until dawn.
Over at the Mondrian, Macy Gray gave a knock-out performance, accompanied by a 20-piece orchestra.  Ludacris and Craig David were seen enjoying Gray’s concert.  The Florida Room was packed as usual, for a show by Common, who had girlfriend, Serena Williams in tow. At the Fontainebleau, Lady Gaga performed poolside.  Hayden Panettiere, Jamie Foxx, Akon and Chris Brown showed up to watch Gaga sing smash singles such as Bad Romance, Just Dance and Poker Face.  Gaga also gave an impromptu performance at Score on Saturday night, following her show at the James L. Knight Center.