CHANCES are, you haven’t heard of Steampunk, but you’ll know it when you see it. It’s one of those things that’s harder to explain than it is to demonstrate. Apologies in advance from 24Seven, but here goes.

In short, it’s imagining a future world as Victorians would have seen it. Think HG Wells’ The Time Machine, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein or anything by Jules Verne – an alternate reality, with Victorian manners firmly intact, featuring lots of brass, mechanical steampowered inventions.

It was also heavily featured in Martin Scorsese’s last film, Hugo and Will Smith’s dire Hollywood blockbuster Wild Wild West. There was also a nod to steampunk at the Olympics opening ceremony and the Paralympics closing ceremony.

Costumed fans of the genre will be descending upon On The Rocks bar in Bournemouth tonight for All Steamed Up. This special night will see live music, including electro swing DJ sets and local band The Mother Ukers.

There will also be live performance art from Metal Fatigue’s Steam Drunk Theatre and refreshments include Victorian Earl Grey Martini’s.

Meanwhile, there will be prizes awarded to the best Lord and Lady of Steampunk.