1900s-Themed Party

Steampunk -- just as popular as '70s-, '80s, '90s-themed parties. 'Tis true. How has it become so damned trendy? Because it is not just a costume party -- a zombie prom is a costume party. It's a mind trip. When you go to an '80s party, you take on the role, no? Act the jerk in your linen jacket. Dance. Put baking soda in lines on the counter. Same goes for Steampunk. But instead of going a few decades back, it takes you all the way to the 19th Century -- the 19th Century, that is, but with our latest technologies (that's what makes this science fiction.)

Of course, there will be a costume contest (cash prize) Saturday at the SteamPunk Extravaganza at the Bubble. Even if you don't want to compete, they still want you to dress up. Wear the fashion you were always pissed off that you missed out on: Throw on a petticoat, a Victorian dress... any ruffley thing will do. Ladies, corsets never went out of style, so you can pull one of those out of the closet. Guys, we know you got some sort of military-inspired garment up in there. Attach whatever gadgets you own to your clothes: iPods, cameras, cell phones.

But Steampunk isn't just a fashion show. Saturday at the Bubble, there will be artists and vendors aplenty. Amy Shaw and friends will perform -- the headliners will be the Loxahatchee Sinners Union. The old bassist of Viva le Vox, James "Scarecrow" Jenkins, now fronts this band, which he appealingly calls "swamp gospel." Burlesque troop Brass Knuckle Bombshells will be present to steam up the indie venue. The extravaganza starts at 9 p.m. and costs $10 -- and that gives you retro futurists access to a keg and possibly the answer to what a "steam-powered elephant" is. The Bubble, also known as the IWAN Concept Production Facility, is located at 810 NE Fourth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Call 954-562-3804, and "like" them on Facebook.
Sat., Sept. 24, 9 p.m., 2011