Surfing this particular zeitgeist is kitsch night, 'The Happening' from the Lewd Girls. With a smörgåsbord of delights, the party includes alternative comedy, booze, short films and a cheesy disco. Taking place in the 'oh-so-ironic' setting of a community centre - the emphasis is on having fun and networking.

In a similar-ish vein is the slightly sketchier event, by the 'Creative Swing' group, in which assorted arty types can meet and exchange creative juices, rather than carnal ones. At each event, a bevy of artists, performers, dancers, film-makers, actors, writers and photographers showcase their current work to their assemble audience.

This does, however, sound a little too much like something Mike Leigh would have written a play about in the 1970s.

Whether this current trend turns into the new speed dating remains to be scene, but I'm not convinced that we are all are bored of swanky bars and clubs. Yet.

'The Happening' - Sun May 16 from 7pm till late
@ The RC Irish Centre, 131 St John’s Way, N1
£3 on the door, £2 concessions
'The Creative Swing’ - also on Sun May 16 5:30-11pm
@ Yatra, 34 Dover Street, W1
Free entry

ST