It was an excellent turn-out for the event - more than 200 according to the clicker - made up of Tory faithful and city figures who'd turned out to hear city council leader Mike Whitby and the new secretary of state for communities and local government Eric Pickles. But those looking for some solid policy insight from the pair then they may have been left disappointed. Thankfully they were much more fun than that.
Coun Whitby took the opportunity to drop various local enterprise board hints while Pickles took great relish in refusing to offer anything even slightly conciliatory to Coun Whitby or anyone else who might be listening. He eulogised about the Water Hall and the Gas Hall and their history as landmark buildings where citizens paid their respective dues before concluding that it was this he intended to "completely sweep away". On the LEPs he said he appreciated the "long advert" for the LEP and was pleased to advise that he would be announcing a decision in the near future. He finished his speech by advising those enjoying the string quartet and bacon-wrapped fish on sticks amongst the Steve McCurry retrospective to enjoy the party because next year it would be "baked beans and Vimto".
As stark as the message, there was a nice buzz around the event and plenty of familiar faces all looking forward to the coming days and ensuring they get their voices heard for their organisations while they have a captive audience.
The evening ended having a drink at All Bar One in Brindleyplace with political editor Jon Walker when we saw the Justice Secretary being followed by an exuberant crowd of young men chanting "There's only one Ken Clarke" although it wasn't clear whether they were over-enthusiastic Young Tories or well-schooled boozers from Broad Street.
Either way, looks like it could be a good few days. And a busy one for the suit.