Category: Performance & Pleasures

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The Meditation Labyrinth


Journey Through Time: The Meditation Labyrinth at Wonderplace Alpha

Step beyond the hustle of the fantastical marketplace into a realm of tranquility at Wonderplace Alpha with our new addition: the Meditation Labyrinth. This sacred space, inspired by the ancient paths of contemplation and self-discovery, invites all ye who wander to seek peace, clarity, and a moment of quiet reflection amidst the magical chaos of our faire.

A Path Through History

Labyrinths have been part of human culture for millennia, serving various purposes from religious rituals to personal meditation. Our labyrinth at Wonderplace Alpha is crafted in the style of the classic medieval design, a single winding path leading to the center and back out again, symbolizing the journey inward and outward, mirroring the journey of life itself.

Constructed with natural stones and surrounded by a lush garden, this labyrinth is not just a physical path but a spiritual one, where every step is an opportunity for introspection, prayer, or simply a walk in mindful silence.

The Design and Its Significance

The labyrinth at our faire is laid out in a seven-circuit pattern, reminiscent of the famous Chartres Cathedral labyrinth in France. Each twist and turn of the path is designed to engage the walker’s senses, encouraging a meditative state where the mind can let go of the external world and tune into the internal one. As you navigate through the intricate loops, you are metaphorically walking through the complexities of your own life, finding your center, and then returning to the world with renewed perspective.

How to Use the Labyrinth

Whether you come to Wonderplace Alpha for the spectacle or the serenity, the labyrinth offers a unique experience:

  • Enter with Intent: Begin your journey with a question, a thought, or simply an open mind. As you step onto the path, set your intention for what you seek from this meditative experience.
  • Walk at Your Own Pace: There is no rush in the labyrinth. Walk slowly, allowing each step to be deliberate. The path leads only one way, so there’s no need to worry about choices; simply follow the path that unfolds before you.
  • Meditate in the Center: Upon reaching the center, pause. Here, in this small, sacred space, spend time in reflection, meditation, or prayer. It’s a place to receive insights, find peace, or simply be still.
  • Return with Reflection: The journey back out is just as significant as the journey in. It represents taking what you’ve learned or felt back into your everyday life.

A Community of Peace

The labyrinth is not just a personal journey but also a communal one. We encourage attendees to share this space, respecting each other’s pace and silence. It’s a place where one might encounter a stranger yet feel connected through the shared act of walking the same path, each with their own story, yet all part of the human experience.

Events and Workshops

Throughout the faire, we will offer guided walks, where experts in meditation and historical practices will share insights into the use of labyrinths through time. There will also be workshops on labyrinth walking as a form of mindfulness, with sessions tailored for both adults and children, ensuring everyone can partake in this timeless tradition.

A Sanctuary in Time

At Wonderplace Alpha, amidst the enchantment of magical performances, the wonder of otherworldly crafts, and the celebration of fantasy, the Meditation Labyrinth stands as a sanctuary. It’s a place to disconnect from the present and connect with something timeless, offering a moment of peace that transcends the centuries. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or a curious newcomer, we invite you to walk our labyrinth, to find your center, and perhaps, to find yourself.

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Dressing For Wonderplace Alpha – A Seminar of Ideas and Assistance

I mean, if you have a suit.

IMPORTANT NOTE: You can wear essentially whatever you’d like! Our seminars of dress and other concepts are here for your assistance and delight. They are only to enhance your experience ~ enjoy them!

We’ve invited Jareth the Goblin King to describe the seminar. He’s not terribly likely to be the one conducting the seminar; but your guides will be lovely, experienced people and/or Goblins.

Welcome, my dear subjects and travelers from realms far and wide, to a most enchanting class at Wonderplace Albion, where I, Jareth, the Goblin King, shall guide you through the art of “Dressing for Wonderplace Albion.”

In this hallowed hall, where magic and fashion intertwine like the vines of the Labyrinth, you shall learn to clothe yourself in the very essence of wonder. We begin, as all great journeys do, at the feet. Here, boots are not mere footwear but a statement of your journey’s intent. Boots laced with silver threads, each step echoing with the chimes of hidden bells, or perhaps a pair of shoes with soles that seem to dance on air, befitting the cobblestone streets of Albion.

Moving upward, we address the trousers or gown, garments that must be as versatile as the paths you’ll tread. For those who dare to wear trousers, I suggest fabrics woven with the threads of twilight, perhaps with pockets that lead to nowhere or everywhere, depending on your whim. Gowns, ah, gowns should flow like the rivers of dreams, with layers that catch the light like the moon’s reflection on water, each layer telling a story of the wearer’s adventures.

The torso, my dear ones, is where armor meets allure. Here, we shall don vests or bodices that are not just for show but for protection against the mundane. Imagine a vest with pockets for your magical trinkets, each buckle and clasp a puzzle piece to your persona. Bodices, for those who choose them, will be corseted with intrigue, adorned with jewels that might just hold the light of distant stars.

Then, we adorn with capes or coats, the final flourish of our attire. A cape can be the wings of your ambition, lined with a pattern of the night sky or the map of Albion itself. Coats, on the other hand, are your armor against the chill of reality; crafted with hidden compartments for maps, potions, or perhaps the key to another dimension.

Headwear, my friends, is not just for keeping the rain off but for crowning your majesty. From the grandest of hats, where feathers might whisper secrets, to a crown that shifts with your mood, each piece is a declaration of your sovereignty in this realm of wonder.

Accessories are the spells you cast upon your appearance. A necklace here might be a vial of captured laughter, a belt buckle could be the face of a goblin ally, and gloves – oh, gloves must be more than mere hand coverings; they are your touch on the world, perhaps even capable of turning doors into portals with a mere gesture.

In this class, you will not only dress but transform, learning to weave the very fabric of your attire with the threads of magic and mischief. We shall delve into the art of illusion, where your clothes might change with your mood or the phase of the moon. Here, at Wonderplace Albion, your attire is your story, your legend, and I, Jareth, will ensure that your legend is one for the ages.

So come, let us embark on this sartorial adventure, where each stitch is a step in the Labyrinth, and every garment you don is a piece of the magic you’ve chosen to live. Remember, in Wonderplace Albion, to dress is to dream, to dare, and to dazzle.

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The Dancing Witches

Witches magic!

“The witches’ dance was a spectacle of shadows and light, a celebration of the night where each step was a spell, each turn a connection to the ancient powers of the earth. They danced not just with their feet but with their souls, weaving magic into the very air, turning the dark into something sacred, something alive.”
-Charles DeLint


Underneath the silver glow of the moon, a coven of witches from the mystical realm of “Dancing Witches” gathers. Cloaked in shadows and starlight, they twirl and leap, their movements a blend of ancient spells and modern beats. Each dance is a ritual, with steps that weave magic into the night air, their laughter echoing like a spellbinding melody. From this enchanted circle, found at the heart of their online sanctuary, they share their dance with the world, inviting all to join in the celebration of life, magic, and the wild, untamed joy of movement.

Come and behold the dance of Witches! Watch them circle, spin, dance, and cackle! Perhaps you might even decide to join their ranks!

When Witches dance, the Wise tremble!

Witches of all ages are invited to come and join the terpsichorean pursuit!

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Goblin Trainin’

Goblins!

Goblin School at our Faire, where mischief and magic meet education in the most unusual way. Here, young scoundrels can embrace their inner goblin for a day of fun, learning, and perhaps a bit of mayhem.

The Setting: Goblin School is set in a rustic, overgrown part of the faire, where makeshift huts and a tangle of vines create the perfect goblin lair. The atmosphere is filled with the sounds of cackles, the rustle of leaves, and the occasional clatter of mismatched cookware.

The Curriculum:

  • Goblin Speak: Learn the rough, guttural language of goblins, including how to sound convincingly mischievous or scheming.
  • Sneaky Skills: Master the art of sneaking, hiding, and ambushing. We’ll teach you how to move silently through the underbrush or how to blend into the shadows.
  • Practical Pranking: From harmless tricks to elaborate schemes, we’ll explore the fine art of pranking. There will be workshops on making simple traps, disguises, and understanding the psychology behind a good prank.
  • Goblin Crafts: Turn trash into treasure with lessons on creating goblin gear from found objects. Think of it as alchemy but with less gold and more… creativity.
  • Mischief Making: Classes on how to sow just the right amount of chaos, teaching the balance between fun and folly.

The Experience: Participants will dress up in goblin attire, complete with pointy ears and ragged clothing, fully immersing themselves in goblin culture. The day ends with a ‘Goblin Graduation’ where each student receives a badge of mischief, marking their new status as an honorary member of the goblin tribe.

Come to Goblin School, where learning is as wild and unpredictable as the creatures themselves.

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Princess Training

Princessing.

Join the magical journey of our Princess Etiquette Classes, where young maidens can learn the charm and decorum of medieval nobility.

The Setting: Set within the enchanting walls of our castle-like venue, surrounded by the beauty of nature, these classes will transport you to a time of chivalry and grace.

The Lessons:

  • Graceful Movement: Learn how to walk, sit, and curtsy with the elegance of a princess. We’ll practice until these movements feel natural.
  • Proper Speech: Master the art of speaking like nobility, with lessons on clear pronunciation and engaging conversation, preparing you for royal discourse.
  • Dining Etiquette: Discover the intricacies of eating like royalty, from the correct use of utensils to the graceful handling of a goblet, culminating in a mock banquet.
  • Dance: Step into the world of medieval dance, learning dances like the pavane, enhancing your poise and social grace.
  • Crafts: Engage in noble pastimes, such as embroidery or the art of illumination, giving you a taste of a princess’s daily life.
  • Dress and Appearance: Learn about medieval fashion, including how to wear and style hair in ways that would befit a royal lady. There will be a fun dress-up part where you can try on period clothing.

Join us to live out an hour or two in the life of medieval royalty, where every lesson is a step closer to your own fairytale ending.

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The Mad Masquerade

Masquerade.

“Masquerades disclose the reality of souls. As long as no one sees who we are, we can tell the most intimate details of our life.”
~Salvatore Laccona

In the twilight of the forest, where shadows dance with the light of the setting sun, faeries emerge to spin and whirl in a ballet of ethereal grace. Their laughter is like the tinkling of silver bells, floating on the breeze, as they weave through the trees in patterns too intricate for mortal eyes to follow. With each step, they leave a trail of shimmering dust, their dance creating a symphony of nature, where leaves rustle in rhythm and flowers bloom with joy. This is no mere dance; it is the very essence of magic, a celebration where time itself seems to pause, allowing the world to witness the pure, unbridled joy of faeries at play.”. Adorn your finest mask and mingle with a cast of intriguing figures – from the playful Jester who spins tales of laughter, the thoughtful Philosopher pondering life’s great mysteries, to the mischievous Puck, stirring up fun at every turn.

The Mad Masquerade is actually surprisingly sedate. Sure, most of the inhabitants are mad, but that’s not terribly abnormal around these parts.

Dance under the stars to music that seems to have drifted from the forests of Mirkwood or the halls of Rivendell or the song-houses of Tenafly, New Jersey. Step into a realm of enchantment at our Simple Faerie Masquerade, where every face tells a story of magic and mystery. During our Fairy Night, we invite you to embrace the spirit of the fae, whether you bring your own masque or choose from our collection of handcrafted masks.

Our masquerade is an ode to simplicity and whimsy, featuring masks that evoke the essence of woodland spirits, ethereal fairies, and mythical creatures. If you’ve brought your own, your personal touch adds to the tapestry of this magical event. If not, our stall offers an array of masks—made from materials like leather, feathers, and silk—each one designed to transform you into a character from a fairy tale. Or buy a masque from one of our talented vendors!

The event begins as the sun sets, casting long shadows where the boundaries between the human world and the faerie realm thin. Dance to the tunes of medieval flutes and lutes, engage in playful games, and share in the lore of the faeries under the starlit sky. Whether you’re here to dance, to mingle, or just to soak in the ambiance, your mask is your key to a night of anonymity and adventure.

(You can bring your own or buy one at the event, as you prefer!)

Join us for an evening where everyone can be a faerie, if only for a night.

This is your chance to meet fascinating people, share in the joy of the dance, and perhaps find yourself in a story you’ll never forget. Don your mask, set your spirit free, and let the night’s enchantment unfold at “The Mad Masquerade.”

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The Jester of Storm and Sense

A jester!

“I was battered and bruised, but the king was amused, and before the siesta, he made me his jester.”
-Danny Kaye, “The Court Jester”

The Jester of Storm and Sense emerges as a central figure, an enigmatic character who dances on the edge of chaos and clarity. Clothed in the traditional motley, with each step accompanied by the tinkling of bells, this jester personifies the essence of medieval revelry, a maestro of merriment whose antics serve both as entertainment and enlightenment.

The Jester of Storm and Sense is a mountebank, a weaver of tales, engaging the crowd with spontaneous acts that blend physical comedy and ridiculous jests. Their performances are a whirlwind of acrobatics, sharp satire, and incisive commentary on the events of the day, keeping everyone from dignitaries to commoners on their toes with their quick wit. Whether in the grandiosity of the royal court, where they dare to mock the vainglorious with their clever tongue, or in the bustling marketplace, where they might host a mock trial or an impromptu magic show, this jester’s presence is both felt and cherished.

Yet, beneath the surface of their japes lies a deeper purpose. The Jester of Storm and Sense embodies the historical role of court jesters, who held the unique privilege to speak truth to power under the guise of humor. Through their performances, they offer not just laughter but lessons in resilience, the art of wordplay, and the importance of questioning the status quo. Their acts are a dance of duality – both revered for their wisdom and ridiculed for their folly, inviting all to momentarily escape the burdens of reality through the timeless magic of laughter.

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Tea Dueling

Tea Dueling!

“The board is set, the pieces are moving. We come to it at last, the great battle of our time.”
~J.R.R. Tolkien, “The Return of the King”

We no longer permit most Wizard duels within the premises of our event, as no one wants to reexperience the Plague of Wombat.

But we do permit Tea Dueling, with proper precautions.

Deep within Wonderplace Alpha llies a curious and delightful spectacle known as tea dueling. This unique event combines the elegance of tea with the competitive spirit of a duel, offering participants and spectators alike a blend of amusement, strategy, and a touch of historical whimsy.

The Basics of Tea Dueling:

Tea dueling is not your typical affair. Instead of swords or pistols, the weapons are delicate porcelain cups, and the battlefield is a table adorned with the finest teapots and saucers. Participants engage in a contest where the objective is to be the first to consume a set amount of tea, but with a twist – the tea must be drunk in such a way that upon finishing, the cup must be placed upside down on one’s head. The first to achieve this without spilling a drop wins the round.

The Rules and Strategy:

  • The Pour: A neutral party, often the “Tea Master,” pours the tea for both duelists. The pour must be fair, equal in quantity, and served at a temperature that, while warm, won’t scald the participants.
  • The Drink: Duelists must drink their tea in a manner deemed proper by the event’s standards. This often involves holding the cup by the handle, pinky out, and sipping without sloshing.
  • The Placement: After drinking, the cup must be placed on the head in one swift motion. The precision here can be the deciding factor; a cup that falls or spills disqualifies the participant.
  • The Duel: The duel can be a series of rounds, with each round’s winner advancing in a tournament-style competition. Sometimes, additional challenges like reciting poetry or answering trivia while drinking are added for complexity and entertainment.

The Etiquette and Atmosphere:

Tea dueling, while competitive, maintains an air of civility and humor. It’s not uncommon for duelists to engage in witty banter or for the audience to cheer and laugh at the participants’ antics. The setting is often decorated to enhance the historical feel, with vintage teapots, floral arrangements, and perhaps a string quartet playing softly in the background to set the mood.

The Appeal:

What makes tea dueling captivating is its blend of skill, strategy, and humor. It’s a test of not just one’s ability to drink tea quickly but also of grace, poise, and sometimes, sheer luck. It appeals to all ages, turning a simple act of drinking tea into a theatrical event, where everyone from the participants to the onlookers is drawn into the drama and excitement of the duel.

In essence, tea dueling at Wonderplace Alpha is more than just a deadly battle; it’s a celebration of the quirky, the historical, and the communal spirit of the Faire, all served up in a delightful cup of tea.

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Genoveva Rossi (next year!)

Genoveva Rossi

 “Genoveva Rossi is one of the best-known cult film stars in the world.”
~Clare Nixon of The Digital Dead (UK)

Genoveva Rossi has carved out a distinctive niche within the horror genre, earning her the revered title of “Scream Queen.” Her appearance at various horror-themed events, conventions, and film projects has not only solidified her status as a cult icon but also highlighted her versatility and deep connection to the horror community.

Rossi’s journey as a scream queen began with her love for horror from a young age, which naturally transitioned into her acting career. Known for her roles in films like “Herschell Gordon Lewis’ Bloodmania,” “Apocalypse Kiss,” and “Death House,” she has portrayed a wide array of characters, ranging from gypsies and witches to fortune tellers and soldiers. These roles showcase her ability to dive into the dark and macabre with authenticity and passion, traits that make her a beloved figure in horror circles. Her deep, sultry voice is often cited as one of her trademark characteristics, adding layers to her performances, whether she’s playing a psychopathic killer or a troubled mother.

Her guest appearances are events in themselves. At conventions like Scare-A-Con or the Birmingham Horror Con, where she has been a guest, Rossi engages with fans through activities that blend her acting prowess with her other talents. She has been known to perform tarot readings, leveraging her professional background as a psychic reader, which adds a unique dimension to her public appearances. Her involvement in such events also includes Edgar Allan Poe readings, further cementing her status as a multifaceted horror enthusiast.

Rossi’s visual style at these events is as captivating as her performances on screen. Often seen with dark, dramatic makeup and costumes that reflect her characters or pay homage to horror classics, she embodies the spirit of horror. Her love for the genre is visibly expressed through her attire, which can range from gothic elegance to outright terrifying, fitting perfectly with the atmosphere of horror conventions. Her interactions with fans are marked by her warm, engaging personality, contrasting yet complementing her on-screen personas

Her contributions extend beyond acting; Rossi is also a writer, contributing to horror magazines like UKHorrorscene.com and The Digital Dead with features titled “A Life in Blood: Tales of a Horror Queen” and “Genoveva Rossi’s Screaming Corner.” These writings give fans an intimate look into her life and the experiences that shape her work, from her adventures in horror to her reflections on the genre’s impact on her life.

Rossi’s presence at any horror event is a testament to her dedication to the genre. She not only entertains but also educates and inspires, often sharing insights into her craft, her love for horror, and her journey from a fan to an icon. Whether she’s discussing her roles, sharing stories from her acting career, or engaging in her other creative pursuits, Genoveva Rossi’s appearances are a celebration of horror’s enduring allure and its community’s passion. Her work continues to influence and inspire a new generation of horror fans and creators, ensuring her legacy as a scream queen will resonate for years to come.

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The Oddities Show and Tell

It's an oddity!

“Almost all institutions own a lot more art than they can ever show, much of it revealing for its timeliness, genius, or sheer weirdness.”
– Jerry Saltz

Marvelously peculiar! Our famed free Halloween Festival attracts too many creators and curators of oddities for us not to invite them to come spend a lovely Faire-weekend with us! See and enjoy fascinating things! Bring your own as we recapitulate our famed Oddities Show & Tell!

What is an ‘oddity’?

An object oddity refers to an item or an artifact that is peculiar, unusual, or stands out due to its uniqueness, rarity, or the bizarre nature of its design, function, or origin. These could include:

  • Antiques or collectibles with strange or inexplicable features, like a clock that uses an unconventional mechanism or a piece of furniture with an odd shape or purpose.
  • Curios from different cultures or historical periods, which might not make sense to modern observers, like ancient tools or decorative items intended for rituals or practices no longer common.
  • Modern art pieces that challenge conventional aesthetics or functionality, such as sculptures made from unconventional materials or items that serve no practical purpose beyond sparking curiosity or conversation.
  • Natural specimens that are anomalies, like oddly shaped fossils, minerals with unusual colorations, or preserved specimens of bizarre creatures.

Object oddities often find homes in curiosity cabinets, museums, or private collections where the fascination lies in their deviation from the norm, their story, or the questions they provoke about human ingenuity, nature’s diversity, or historical context.

What is an Oddity Show and Tell?

In the Oddity Show and Tell, our attendees, merchants, and friends are cordially invited to bring their favorite oddities and show off the delightful peculiarities they’ve collected, found, haggled over, inherited, made, or otherwise acquired.

All are most cordially invited to bring their peculiarities and enjoy their offbeat strangeness with us!