Category: Performance & Pleasures

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The Rose Whisperers

Roses!


“Roses in the moonlight, love in the air; it’s like living in one of those stories where the world ends, but our love story just begins, unfading like the scent of these roses.”
-Ray Bradbury

The Rose Whisperers: Brokers of Friendship, Flirtation and Sometimes Even Love at Wonderplace Alpha

We are fortunate to be in the presence of The Rose Whisperers. These captivating beings, clad in attire that reflects the shimmering colors of rose petals*, move through the crowds with baskets filled with the most exquisite, bio-engineered roses. Their purpose? To spark connections and ignite passion among the visitors of this sci-fi wonderland.

Ambassadors of Cosmic Love: The Rose Whisperers are more are interstellar diplomats of affection, fluent in the galactic language of flowers. At least, they say they are. Are you really going to contradict a Rose Whisperer on the love life of a daffodil?

Each rose they offer is imbued with a message, reflecting the nuances of modern space-age courtship. and when we say “Imbued”, we mean, you are welcome to add a short message along with your rose request.. A red rose might signify deep, cosmic love, a pretty blue one could denote friendship in the vast universe, while an invisible white rose represents…something else. Probably. These lovely flowers guide visitors in selecting the ideal bloom to express their feelings, making each gift a meaningful gesture or vow.

Interactive Galactic Romance: Visitors can engage with these Whisperers to pick a rose, often accompanied by a witty or poetic explanation of its meaning. They might participate in futuristic games or challenges where couples can earn roses, infusing their romantic journey with a playful edge. The Whisperers can sometimes be share tales of legendary love stories from across the galaxy or recite space-themed poetry, enriching the romantic ambiance. Or they’ll at least be able to show you cute videos on their phones; close enough, eh, friends?

In their presence, giving a rose transcends into a magical journey, where each bloom tells a story of love in the language of the cosmos. The Rose Whisperers at Wonderplace Alpha aren’t merely selling flowers; they’re selling moments of enchantment, where every rose is a narrative waiting to be discovered in the vast expanse of space.

* Or not. We’re not actually going to tell them what to wear; haven’t you ever heard of thorns?

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Friday Night Fairyland


“Faeries, come, take me out of this dull world, For I would ride with you upon the wind, Run on the top of the disheveled tide, And dance upon the mountains like a flame!”

– William Butler Yeats, “The Land of Heart’s Desire,”

Friday night, the Fae of Fable will use the powers of Magic, Sorcery, and LED Garden Lights to transform our World from a mystical Universe to a slightly more Mystical Universe. As twilight descends, the faire grounds will be bathed in a soft glow from lanterns and fireflies, casting an ethereal light that beckons all to a night of enchantment. The air will be thick with the scent of wildflowers and the distant sound of whimsical melodies played on lutes and flutes and possibly the occasional giant gong. There might also be flutes.

Imagine the scene: the market stalls, usually bustling with daytime trade, now decked with gossamer wings, shimmering dust, and fairy lights. Except for the shopkeepers who don’t want to change, in which case, there’s not much we can do, unless we want them to chase us out of their stalls with forks. Performers, adorned in delicate costumes with wings that flutter in the breeze, will weave through the crowd, engaging in playful mischief or sharing ancient tales (and modern tea) of the Fae. We’ll host a gentle ball where the music invites everyone to dance under the stars, perhaps even catching a glimpse of a real fairy or two among the revelers, weaving amongst the Martians.

Fable is your host, but all the elements are welcomed!

“I am everywhere — on a moonbeam, in the trembling of a hidden spring, in the moving of leaves that murmur, in the white vapours that rise each morning from the hollow meadow, in the thickets of pink brier — everywhere!”

– Anatole France, Le crime de Sylvestre Bonnard, 1881

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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.