Today's idea - Floetics and Facepaint

Floetics excellent night of locally produced music, poetry, spoken word, drama and comedy return to night. They promise brilliant acts and lots of open mic slots, so if you're a budding wordsmith, this one's for you.

This month's is in aid of Brighton charity Hue Help and all funds raised will go straight towards furnishing a new orphanage in Hue Vietnam. The plan's too create a home for forty Vietnamese children - more info at Huehelp.org.uk

"There will be facepainting, coffee which = phwoar, colouring-in, and of course the inordinately anticipated and confundingly life-changing prize draw."

So, for a night of wordiness, expression, and happy locals, it sounds pretty good. They had us sold at colouring-in.

If you're interested in taking part, sign up on arrival (look for Jasmine).

Time: Doors at 8pm, starts at 8.30pm (until 10.30pm)
Cost: £3
Facebook event: here
Location: Redroaster Coffee House, St James Street

Today's idea - Sparks: spoken word and short stories

There's spoken word today at Upstairs at Three and Ten, upcoming art and comedy bar in Old Steine. Tonight they're hosting their own version - for a simple comparison - of Floetics and invite you to come and read, or come and listen to, excellent short stories by local authors. Similar Brighton events have been massively popular in the past, sprouting in local cosy cafes, and Upstairs at Three and Ten is no exception. Their events have a tendency to sell out, so possibly Book Online before heading out for this one. It costs £5 with doors at 7:50 for an 8pm start.

"Flash fiction is the literary equivalent of hotpants: there are short shorts, and then there are short shorts... For those wanting to hear some new literary voices I recommend it" The Argus

Details for submitting entries for the next Sparks events can be found on the