The London Hippodrome started life as a circus venue in 1900, and attractions included elephants, polar bears and snakes. In November, the main draw will be Tusk Modern – a star-studded art event to protect, rather than showcase, endangered animals.

All profits will benefit conservation charity Tusk, and organisers aim to exceed the £50,000 collected from last year’s inaugural fundraiser by staging an artwork auction. Topping the bill will be lots by Tracey Emin and Sir Peter Blake and limited-edition prints donated by the estates of Miró, Chagall and Matisse.

As well as high-profile patrons such as Sir Tim Rice, Ronnie Wood and the Duke of Cambridge, Tusk recently announced that supporter Mark Knopfler (pictured) will perform a one-off live concert in aid of the charity at the Royal Albert Hall in May.