TUESDAY 29 JUNE, 2010

Vuvuzelas At The Ready
African inspired club Shaka-Zulu to launch in Camden

You have to admire the British spirit when, even after being booted out of the World Cup, a man in a white van will lean out of his window and cry ‘Oye love, show us your vuvuzela!’ with no shame. That’s right folks, we may have misplaced our dignity, but we will not be defeated in bawdy witticisms. Neither, it seems, have we lost the taste for the South African horn (no pun intended) – but what’s left to toot to?

The answer lies in Camden’s latest megalithic club launch – Shaka-Zulu. Joining Gilgamesh in what seems to be fast becoming the Disneyland of London’s thematic nightlife scene (fingers crossed for our own ‘It’s A Small World’ ride), it promises a restaurant, lounge and club in decadent African style. Set over two floors there’ll be enormous carved wooden wall panels, giant elephants on parade, traditional murals and tribal patterned furniture as well as a ‘Braai’ grill room for imported game (think cudu, springbok and ostrich), Cape Town inspired seafood and live shows throughout the night. Now it’s only awaiting the royal blessing by HRH King Goodwill Zwelithini (who else is sensing a tributary martini on the menu?) with the ceremonial flicking of animal blood (yes really). Watch out for a mid-July launch – or whenever the sanguine sacrifice can be scheduled.

As it happens, we can think of the perfect offerings… And they should be back in town any time now.

Info
Shaka-Zulu, Stables Market, Camden, NW1 8AH. 0203 376 9911.
Daily 12pm-2am.
July launch – more info.

Ron Robinson Pops Up At The Mondrian
Fashion and lifestyle hipsters collaborate in LA

If you’re lucky enough to be popping Stateside soon, make sure to dip your head into The Mondrian Hotel’s newest resident – über cool lifestyle emporium Ron Robinson. Setting up shop in the site’s famous retail space just off the Sunset Strip, expect to find whimsical new products, high-end design and luxury goods including a custom-designed Pamela Love t-shirt, jewellery from Stephen Webster for men and women, Parrot-Zikmu speakers designed by Philippe Starck, APOTHIA candles, Kiehl’s beauty products, NIXON watches as well as the essential Missoni towels and beach accessories. And if you haven’t planned your trip yet here’s an added incentive – book your stay over 90 days in advance and get 25% off – leaving more cash to flash in-store.

From June-December 2010

LAUGH – At new material from upcoming comedians at the Edinburgh Fringe Previews. 8pm, Islington Comedy Bar, 29a Penton Street, N1 9PX. £5.

DANCE – Join in the fun with festival-goers at East London's Glastonbury Afterparty. 7pm, 93 Feet East, 150 Brick Lane, E1 6RU. Free.

EXPERIENCE – A history of baseball told via the jazz opera, Shadowball. 7.30pm, The Mermaid Centre, Puddle Dock, Blackfriars, ECV1 3DB. £10-£17.50.

SING – along in the sun to the likes of Patti Smith and Efterklang at the Serpentine Sessions. 6pm, Hyde Park, W2 2UH. £32.50-£37.75.