Paddle Royal: More than your average basement sport

During the late 1800s ping pong, then called table tennis, became all the rage as an after–dinner party activity for wealthy English folk. Nowadays it’s a charming addition to any mildewy basement.

Tonight, the strangely addictive sport will be celebrated at the Kitty Kat Club. The Kat’s ping pong table will be brought up from the basement and placed under the hot lights in the stage space normally reserved for musical guests.

Dubbed the Paddle Royale, the first hour, from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m., will feature local ping pong talent tearing up their rubber paddles in an intense battle of wills, complete with color commentary. Interested in competing? Patrons of all skill levels are invited to sign up for the open competition starting at 10 p.m.

The Kitty Kat Club is located in Dinkytown at 315 14th Avenue SE in Minneapolis. For more info call the bar at 612.331.9800.