Let's face it, first dates are all about looks - does he have defined biceps, does he wear white socks? Does she have an hourglass figure or how much make-up does she rely on?Visual distraction is big pressure and can be a barrier stopping people from getting beyond façades to meeting the person who could be "the one".Joburg-based actress Rachael Neary thought about this and came up with the idea of speed dating in total darkness."I wanted to explore dating but without the emphasis on looks that is so prevalent out there," says Neary.She collaborated with Hayleigh Evans of POPArt theatre at Maboneng and launched Dating in the Dark in February last year. So far, events have been heterosexual hook-ups, but this spring they're introducing dating events for homosexuals too.In the straight edition of the event the men arrive before the women participants. They gather, grab a drink then head into the darkened theatre space that's divided into different booths.The women arrive at a later meeting time and are introduced to their dates only in the dark."Each 'date' lasts five minutes then we ring a bell and help usher the person to their next date,"says Neary. "Everyone is chilled and it's great fun. There is less pressure because everything takes place in the dark."Neary, who has done the Tinder thing and the online-dating thing, says Dating in the Dark removes some of the superficiality of attractiveness being about physical appearance only.Neary and Evans don't interfere in the process; they don't vet people or try to play matchmaker.As Neary says: "We just have one stipulation: don't be kak - it's a simple enough rule for people to relax and to be cool."Being cool is paying the R120 booking fee, showing up and engaging openly. After the dates there isn't a "reveal" with lights being turned on. Instead, participants leave as they arrived.Participants give feedback through e-mail and if there's mutual interest, Dating in the Dark shares participants' contacts.Evans says: "The concept is about conversation above all."So far, feedback's been positive.One person from the July event said: "Five stars; so much fun! I would do it again."Another person said: "It was a good experience and I look forward to the next event! Unless I don't need it, hmmm, OK, let's see what happens!"Visit www.popartcentre.co.za for future dating events..