The evening is dark and mysterious, through dangers untold you have made your way to The Goblin Ball. You push your way into the Grand Ballroom, the energy is hectic and the New Orleans Jazz is flowing like sweet bourbon. Once by your side, you turn around to find your love has vanished. Where could they be? Male or female the song spell is strong and hard to resist.

Seriphone the siren has called from the swamplands to draw your one true love to their fate. Do you dare follow and risk being lost in the sirens spell or do you count your losses and find another?

Jas Tavares journeys from Dallas, Texas to bring the bewitching voice of Seriphone the Swamp Siren to life. Oozing a bluesy acapella to entice strangers to the lair of the underworld, Seriphone wanders the world of The Goblin Ball performing for those who dare risk their life. Darko The Ringmaster asks this wandering songstress what guests can expect from this talented creature.

Jas, you are not a stranger to performing and also have had your regular brushes with fame. Share with us some of the most notable moments of your singing career.
Oh I have so many it's hard to chose one, but I do have to say my first real performance is my most memorable. I was still in high school and I had been given a solo performance and hadn't even auditioned. The whole school was there. The moment I walked out and onto that stage, an eruption of cheers rang through the entire performance hall, I had to wait a few minutes to actually begin. I sang at last and, it was dead silent. The moment the song was over, I had my first standing ovation. I was elated. And from then on, I sang at every single event; from foot ball games, baseball games, I played rolls in musicals I hadn't even auditioned for and at the end of the year I was awarded the golden voice award at our prom and it was the most amazing feeling.

I've auditioned for American idol which was the 2nd season, I was given an amazing opportunity to audition for the glee project and sing for some of our radio stations out door concerts, I've even been in documentaries. It's truly been a wonder experience for me. I'm very lucky

As a Ringmaster wandering the worlds of The Goblin Ball, I’m not completely familiar with Swamp Sirens. Tell me about what Seriphone plans on doing for the evening of The Goblin Ball?
Seriphone is after one this and one thing only, the beating heart of love, she needs it to live and to make her grotto the way it truly is. She will do anything to get a heart beating passion. Anything. I will sing to those who seek true love, only to snatch the life force when they are most vulnerable. I will swap a song for a trinket or two, however those without an acceptable offering should beware, a beating heart is the best price. Those without an offering better block their ears.

So Seriphone is not all that friendly?
Seriphone isn't so much evil. her intentions are good, BUT she is tainted, she gets what she wants by ANY means, so yes with that lust for a heart is manipulative and conniving. She's luring people and convincing them she is just wanting what is best, in reality, she has a few tricks up her sleeve and maybe has ulterior motives, but I don't want to give too much away.

Do you have any advice for strangers who seek to explore your territory?
For those who follow her and do her bidding, she has an interesting reward that may just make you want to jump to her aid. You're in for quite a treat. But be warned. Seriphone is a sneaky siren.

Jas Tavares will be appearing at The Goblin Ball as wandering songstress in the Grand Ballroom from 7pm - 12am performing on the spot songs of the swamp. Providing entertainment and enchantment this Siren is not to be missed. Trade a trinket or two for a song on the night and leave with your life in tact.

The Goblin Ball 2014. What can we say? So many astonishing guests and so many amazing adventures were had on the evening of the 14th of July 2014. The realm of Ember Rule was a far cry from the Ice Kingdom and everything was so different. We offer a reflection on our past and give hint to the future of THe Goblin Ball in 2015.
Photos in this post are on behalf of Ellen Duffy Photography who provided the photoshoot for the evening! Be sure to check your shots here!

The Goblin Ball: Ember Rule was phenomenal all thanks to our guests and the artists involved. Lizzie Sharp provided the makeup crew who created the creatures who inhabited the event and the photographers made all of our guests feel special.

Guests were welcomed to a Goblin Marketplace that had several amazing artisan stalls including Nightshade FX and Roseberry bay soaps.

Pintina arrived, forcefully returned to face a family of Gods who were quick to forgive. Guests were invited to choose her fate - Bless or Damn. In the end Pintina was presented at the end of the Walk of The Gods and Blessed with Demi Goddess status.

Through the evening Animata String Quartet played renditions of songs from Game of Thrones to Labyrinth allowing our guests to be immersed in the romance of the evening. Lamplight Circus and Lee from Melbourne Magic festival provided the wandering entertainment  and Shimmy Bliss once again proved hypnotic. Omega kept the Gods inferno pumping with song requests in a red lit room of DOOM!

The Quests were more popular than we had intended with over 200 quests being completed before 10pm. Next year we will grow this side of our guest experience and maybe making things a little harder and more immersive!

By the end of the evening as guests had grown weary of photoshoots and adventures we closed the doors at 12. Pintina had double crossed Ember Rule by stealing the heart of the God and left  a clue beckoning us to follow her to Terra Bayou.

Next years adventures will surely be interesting as we explore The Power of Voodoo!

Just Who were these Ringmasters who ran around the venue?
You may have seen the 5 Ringmasters running around the venue and sometimes talked to a few. But what were their roles on the evening?
The Ringmasters are actually the production crew who have been working hard (sometimes up to a full 12 months before) to make sure the event runs as best as it can.
The story line of the Ringmasters isn't something that was accidental. The Ringmasters are here by appointment of Jaggies - a mysterious figure who may be revealed in an event or two - but all you need to do is remember to seek them for help and fun on the evening.
The Ringmasters were all amazed by everyones efforts on the evening and we can't wait to see you again next year!

Pintina
Congratulations, thanks to our guests Pintina survived another Goblin Ball. Last year the brat Princess schemed and harassed our guests to make sure they felt uncomfortable. This year with the possibility of being granted Demigoddess status, Pintina grew up a little and with some handy positive PA from the Acolytes from the realm of Ember Rule Pintina reached that goal - only to double cross Ember Rule at the final moment replacing the Gods heart with a Voodoo doll. This could only mean we must follow her to Ember Rule and experience the Power of Voodoo in 2015!


The Acolytes
Our VERY valuable volunteers for the evening were wonderful in supplying help to the guests who were a little lost to find their way! Even the Guards of Ember Rule who provided Fire twirling and Belly dancing made quite the impression. Next year who can we expect to help our guests through Terra Bayou?

The Quest Masters worked tirelessly at taking our guests on adventures and making sure their motives where known.

Hasina made sure her love of Pintina won over the crowd and successfully won over the hearts of the guests.  Would the fact that Pintina double crossed Ember Rule sway her devotion?

Amak from The Ice Kingdom was unsuccessful and grew in anger toward Ember Rule. We wonder if he will attempt to travel to Terra Bayou to gain revenge. 

Bodhisattva was key in gathering guests runes to expose the future and she was able to use this information to expose that Maude was intending to steal the Gods heart - but did she know more than what she was letting on?

Maude - framed or foe? Next year as we travel to Terra Bayou we may see more of what he was attempting to do with the God's heart.

Paiva the Fire Goddess was awaiting the return of not only her God but also of Pintina. When Ebon came with the promise of forgiveness the were able to accept Pintina into her rightful place of Demi Goddess. 
Do they have forgiveness in their heart (the one left between them) to see past Pintina's shortcomings to allow her to reclaim her place in the family at a later stage or has Pintina escaped with the blessings, and the heart?

The Walk of the Gods at 10pm was amazing! There were so many fantastic costumes however Tracy and David (who came as a tree!) were the ones who the Gods bestowed the Title of Gods Honored. They took home a skull from Nightshade FX and double passes to next years trip to Terra Bayou. (Photos of the Tree Sentinel to come!)

So where do we go from here?

Terra Bayou is a world of New Orleans inspired Voodoo where we can be sure to see our Demigoddess Pintina explore and attempt to complete her next ulterior motive, but what could it possibly be?

Next year we bring an authentic New Orleans flavor to the Goblin Ball that includes Voodoo, southern charm and a little touch of death. Lets just say it won't be such a walk in Ember Rule for our dear Pintina. The Swampland of Terra Bayou awaits. Will you be invited to walk the Grand Mardi Gras for the Barons of Terra Bayou?

For updates and news be sure to follow The Goblin Ball on facebook and join The Power of Voodoo event!

We love feedback and it's all been wonderful however if you would like to give inclusions for next year feel free to submit them at The Goblin Ball page and we will do our best to consider your requests.

At The Goblin Ball some of our guests have decided they will be playing characters for the evening. This helps add to the magical nature of the evening and if you would like to do the same, feel free to imagine your own character. This is an amazing way to interact with other guests and also can help create memorable moments not only for yourself but also for other guests. If you would like to see how to prepare for the ball you can click here for more inspiration.

Darko the Ringmaster decided to catch up with one of the Guests Queen Thela of Selene to explore what her character was doing at The Goblin Ball and what other guests could expect when interacting with her on the evening.

Thank you for agreeing to answer some questions Queen Theia of Selene. Maybe you could begin by telling us a bit about yourself and where you come from?

It’s a pleasure to make time for the Ringmaster of the Goblin Ball. I am Queen of the Moon and Regent of the night sky. I obtained my titles an era ago after a war I waged against the God of Darkness whom, at that time, ruled over the night. I sacrificed the bulk of my powers in order to create the moon, illuminate the night sky and defeat him. I have watched over the darkness as his predecessor ever since. 

My kingdom, Selene, is situated on the dark side of the Moon and as such exists in an eternal night. Any citizen here will tell you the light side of the Moon is forbidden by our oldest and strictest laws. Selene is a place of old magic, from the days before magic had color or law. We don’t abide by the commonly accepted social definitions of right and wrong and it often shocks people to learn we allow the use of most forbidden magic here. 

We believe the intent not the medium of application is what is important. I’ve seen white magic used for great evil in my time, and black magic used to for a greater good. Everyone here has sworn fidelity in exchange for the ability to be who they really are in freedom. Some are admittedly monsters, but there are advantages to having monsters in our ranks. This makes us formidable. As we need to be, to keep the real horrors of the night in check.

At the Goblin Ball this year we expect to see many royals from all corners of The Goblin Realm. What brings you to The Goblin Ball?

Circumstances have forced my hand. There is trouble on Selene. We have tried to keep the situation contained, but the Moon is falling out of balance and I’m afraid the effects are beginning to be bleed over into other realms. Reports from my informants in Terra Bayou are particularly troubling. The sun that shines over their realm is dimming and that does not bode well. There is a reason why our creed is “Night falls over all kingdoms.”

Selene is not the only kingdom thrown out of balance. The Ice Apples are stolen, the Ice Kingdom is powerless, the Fire God is dead. I have been absent from court for over 100 years, but I cannot ignore the death of a God. Not when the last person to murder one was me.

I’m attending to reestablish my presence in these matters, to form alliances and gather information. I have a very particular purpose for attending the ball and I’m determined to obtain my objective. Everything depends on it and time is running out.

You have decided to to attend with other cohorts, who are they?

I think you will agree Ringmaster, protection for divinities and royalties alike at this event is paramount. Even though the Goblin Ball falls shortly after the full moon, when my powers are strongest, I am taking no chances. So far attending with me is the Commander of my Queensguard, Fenrir, and several representatives from the Order of the Dark Moon, which comprises of the most powerful magic-users in Selene: Scylla, the head sorceress of the order, Evienne Stormwalker and a trainee Lucille who has recently come to us from the Ice Kingdom. 
She made a personal request of me to permit her attend as part of the escort, which I permitted. I can understand and certainly reciprocate her desire to find out the truth of what happened in the Ice Kingdom. Other citizens of Selene and members of the Lunar Court are sure to attend, and we have operatives working to ensure our objectives from their respective factions. 
I am, of course, interested in receiving communication from other dignitaries before the night of the ball. I’m more than certain we are not the only one attending with our own agenda and I’m sure some of them would align with other’s.

As you are probably aware, last year there was a murder most foul and this year Princess Pintina is being brought to face the Fire Kingdom. Do you think you will help her profess her innocence or will you make sure she pays for her crime?

Her guilt or innocence... Hm. I suspect there is more to the story than that, but I can’t afford to devote my support and resources on the night purely to uncovering the truth of whether or not she is guilty or innocent in all senses of the word. My objective will be preventing her from becoming Demigoddess at any cost, and I will support any objective that supports that outcome. 

Put aside for a moment the murder of the Fire God, put aside the theft of the Ice Apples then what is left is the Princess herself. If her disposition is cruel then I will find a way to deny her divinity. 

Simple. I have more experience than most with cruel Gods. I also have other matters to investigate. How exactly a mortal Princess managed to murder a supposedly immortal God would be the most immediately pressing. If a God can be killed, what makes a God or Goddess in the first place? What is divinity? What bigger plot seems to be afoot here? How far are the troubles on Selene involved? This are the questions that trouble me, Ringmaster.

Is there anything you would like to tell the other guests about your attendance and what they can expect if they encounter you on the night?

We are happy to lend assistance to the objectives of others on the night in exchange for support and information for our own objectives. Other guests may hear rumors about why the light side of the moon is forbidden, a folklore about a 'monster' that lives there. The terrible things that happen on Selene during a New Moon and on Eclipses. 

The horrific deaths and the fact that the Queen doesn't age. Remember everything is connected and nothing is as it seems.

There you have it! Some interesting dynamics for the evening and Queen Thelia has learnt the mythology of The Goblin Ball! We can't wait to play with you all!

Tickets are selling fast so make sure to book yours ASAP!

The Melbourne Sword and Spear Association (MSSA) is a Melbourne based Western Martial Arts organization. The MSSA train with a wide range of tools, from spear to sword, dagger and shield, axe and even dual wield. 

Not teaching any specific style, or fighting according to any one particular Master, they use the old text in conjunction with modern knowledge to help optimize weapon use. MSSA currently meet at the 17th Essendon Scout hall every Saturday at 6 pm. 

The MSSA have members performing the role of Guards for the world of Ember Rule who will be more than willing to partake in the sharing of secrets of swordplay on the eve of The Goblin Ball. We caught up with Gypsy Taylor to answer a few questions on Sword play and what makes it so much fun!

So what can we expect from a gathering of Melbourne Sword and Spear Association?

On any given training night, we do a short series of warm ups, some skills development with a different core focus each time, and we usually have time set aside for some partnered sparring.

What is your best advice for someone looking to get involved in learning the basics?

Quite simply come along and get involved. We don't expect anyone to know what their all-time favourite weapon is going to be at their first session. New students will spend some one-on-one time with one of our veteran students or a training officer to help them learn the basics and after a while, to help guide them to which ever style they like.

How much could I expect to invest in such an amazing hobby?

There is a basic annual fee of $30 which covers insurance and a weapons exemption for anyone who is looking at owning their own. For anyone looking to go up against another member of the group, say in a sparring match or a tournament, we do have basic requirements for armor, but there are multiple places that these can be sourced from so the cost of that can be kept as low as the student needs. Weapons and additional armor are completely up to the student. And for the real beginners, we have some basic share equipment, so no fear of missing out on any fun!

What is your personal favorite weapon?

My personal favourite is the cutlass or sabre. I have a soft spot for pirates, it's true, but I also love how light and quick they are compared to some of the heavier blades, and the fact that they are wielded with a single hand give me freedom to have an of-hand weapon like a dagger, or to have a shield as well.

Private lessons are also being given by trained officers. Your first session of the year is free! If you are interested in coming along to one of their sessions, or want to know more, find them on their web page, FaceBook or contact Justin the President on 0424 495 966

Q. I have replica weaponry / melee items. Is this okay?
Yes. As long as you don't draw your sword to another guest. Ornamental weaponry is allowed and encouraged.

Q. ARMOUR! I must protect myself from dragons and rogues! Can I bring my own sword too?
The short answer to armour and weaponry is yes however you must keep all weapons sheathed at all times. The Goblin Ball is a place to match wits not swords. Those found duelling will be dealt with accordingly.

Guests of The Goblin Ball are a special breed of creature. To help in making the evening magical some choose to come as their own characters adding an additional magic for those who come to party!

The Goblin Ball Characters Players event page has been created to help those who wish to play out a character for the evening find each other and plot an adventure. We have put together a quick reference for those who wish to know what story will be played out on the main stage for the evening and the chance to do your own creative work with your creature creation.

The Goblin Ball is a unique fantasy event in the way that it has its own mythology. The Goblin Realm includes four main realms that represent the four main elements. 

The Ice Kingdom, a land of frozen water from the heart of a cold cruel witch. Ember Rule is fueled from fire of the passionate love provided by a loving family who yearn for a reunion with their missing daughter. There amongst a world of Voodoo exists Terra Bayou, the swamps of an earth realm slowly dying but ruled by the Barons of the clay and plant. Above the tangible worlds floats the world of Starlantis, inhabited by psychics that drift in the ether.

In the earth year of 2013 The Goblin Ball was hosted in the Ice Kingdom to the bemusement of the creatures within. Known to the hosts of The Goblin Ball and under the instruction of the mysterious Jaggies, the Ring Masters busied themselves creating a distraction of grandeur. A murder had taken place the evening before in the Queens Garden. A body lay bare and the guests busied themselves helping to uncover the true perpetrator. 

As the evening drew to a close the guests grew wise and due to her repulsive countenance the Ice Princess Pintina was rightly arrested for her vile crime. 

Hark! Twists were uncovered! The body of the dead was that of the Fire God from Ember Rule, a neighboring realm and the brother of The Ice Queen! If things weren’t complicated enough the arrest was halted mid arrest when Amaryllis the old Hand Maiden of the Ice Queen provided additional scandal. 

It was revealed Pintina is the daughter of the Fire Gods. 

Kidnapped at birth and raised as the child of an Ice Witch, Is the evil in Pintinas heart able to melt, and if so - can her soul be redeemed with the elevation to demigoddess? Why did Pintina manage to smuggle out the last remaining Snow Apples from the Ice Kingdom? They were the source of the Ice Queens beauty - what purpose could they serve her?

This year The Goblin Ball is brought to the realm of Ember Rule. Acolytes await guests every whim and whisper. Gods and Goddesses aim to please with a kind blessing and a word of encouragement. The realm of Ember Rule is a world away from the harsh hostility of The Ice Kingdom.

The Ringmasters of The Goblin Ball have chosen Ember Rule for the human year 2014, but this year their motivation isn’t clear. The murderer has been identified and the perpetrator brought to answer for her crime, what could be transpiring?

This year The Ringmasters have caught rumors floating around that a mysterious guest is after the source of power from the realm of Ember Rule. The Gods heart is a hot commodity but would Pintina risk a penalty of death for the crime of stealing such a prize? And why have numerous market holders applied to bribe the guests with trinkets for assistance in their secretive tasks?

Amak a soldier from the Ice Kingdom is looking for Pintinas persecution. He wants your assistance with bringing her to justice, but does he wish to create a distraction to pass the blame should the opulent organ vanish?

Hasina the all forgiving high priestess of Ember Rule is looking to grant Pintina the power of Demigoddess status. Should she succeed is she looking to grab the heart and take the Fire Gods place on the throne?

Maude the Poppet Peddler of Terra Bayou. The world is crumbling and rotten from the inside out. Voodoo required the ultimate sacrifice, maybe he needs the heart to shine like a sun on the land to breathe new life.

Bodhisattva the Psychic from Starlantis could always use another star in the night sky. The heart of a god, shining in the middle of a new solar system should sit nicely with her realm. But why would she need one when the Psychics know all? Maybe that is the problem.

This year The Ringmasters of The Goblin Ball encourage you to seek the truth behind the motivations of our market holders and choose whether to bless or damn Princess Pintina.

The outcome could save a God and the world of Ember Rule, or leave the realm open to the same fate as the Ice Kingdom.

For those who wish to come in character and play with each other we have set up a separate event page where you can plot and plan on facebook. Hook up with other players and be sure to catch up on the evening to solve the mysteries!

The Goblin Ball Character Players is a page set up for guests. Guests support is minimal as it is set up to assist guests meet each other and plan their evil deeds.

Some tips to help create your evening

1. Respect Each Other
The Goblin Ball prides itself on being an all inclusive event regardless of race, gender, gender identity and sexual identity. Discrimination or bullying of any kind is not allowed.

2. Safety First
Make sure if you are meeting someone for the first time, do not arrange to meet outside of the event. Meet inside to make sure your safety is covered.

3. Preparation
Plan some fun activities, plan to work together on some of the quests for the evening and plan to bribe each other to get these jobs done! Maybe a little jewel can persuade an unexpecting guest to join your cause.

4. Character Interaction
Our creatures have gone through extensive training to help bring The Goblin Ball to life. Please be mindful of physical contact as our creatures are not allowed to engage in physical combat. Keep physical contact if needed during photo opportunities respectful and always feel free to ask for a hug.

5. The Storyline and Set Design
Bring your own motives and mythology and feel free to share them around. Words can be powerful and your mythology helps create the world we play in. Just be aware though - to avoid being arrested by Goblin Guards - please for your own safety keep off the thrones or set unless invited by a Ringmaster who would be happy to supervise your photographs if possible.

6. Use the Facebook Page
Guests are looking to play with each other and the easiest way to share your story before is to log on and post your story. Others may be swayed into joining your cause!

7. Have Fun
The Goblin Ball isn't to be taken too seriously. The best way to start a new adventure is to say "yes" to anyone who proposes a new idea or adventure. There are break out areas through the venue to allow you to converse and regroup. There are quests in the Marketplace to give you some jobs to complete! Choose wisely because once you choose a job you are aligned with that kingdom for the evening.


We hope this gives you some ideas on how to have an amazing time! Be sure to join The Goblin Ball Character Players for more fun!

At The Goblin Ball we love watching fantasy movies and although we have many favorites, we thought we would share our top 5. We know we have left out heaps of movies that you may have drawn inspiration from so please feel free to add your favorited in the comments below.

5. Queen of the Damned (2002)

This may seem like a long shot but the late Aaliyah dazzled as Akasha showing that beauty can be brutal. We put The Queen of the Damned at number 5 on our list for a few reasons. Firstly Ember Rule, the fantasy world where The Goblin Ball is set this year takes its costume and styling from Egyptian Revival. Our costumer Jodie Welch spent countless nights in front of Art Deco and Egyptian books looking to create that special blend of Goblin Mythology and an ancient flavor to give the evening it’s otherworldly feel. Also our acolytes who serve as the event slaves have been clothed in haramesque style garb. Should you think that these creatures are a little brainwashed and subservient you could almost be forgiven for thinking the Fire Goddess has cast some mind spell to keep them all in check.

4. The Princess Bride (1987)

For its softer, more fairytale inspiration The Princess Bride comes in at number four. The Princess Bride is classic. There are amazing gowns paraded by the women and the mediaeval sharpness of the men mean there is something for everyone. The Princess Bride is a movie that although with a little time, recreating or gathering inspiration from this movie is achievable with not too much of a headache. For men, Westley’s costume is very simple but effective and with the right amount of charm anyone could pull off the style. Buttercups “nightmare scene” gown could also be achieved with a repurposed wedding gown and a bit of elbow grease. This movie is classic all the way.

3. LEGEND (1986)

This movie would require a LOT of planning and a bit of gold to be able to produce the elaborate costumes from Legend. To recreate The Lord of Darkness much effort would have to go in to prosthetics and hiring a team of makeup artists to create Tim Curry’s iconic look. Princess Lilly wears an AMAZING ensemble in her dark phase of the movie and this is a look that would both strike awe and terror in fellow guests. Dark Lilly is definitely one of the most iconic looks from the movie Legend.

2. The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)

Okay so this isn’t so much an old classic but more of a NEW classic. Last year for The Goblin Ball: The Ice Kingdom, the production crew watched The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe countless times to gather inspiration for our creatures and were mesmerized by the costumes. Jadis' costume changes with the seasons till she herself becomes the lioness and the other creatures are SO amazing that even the supporting cast deserve a hit of the rewind and pause button when spotted.

1. Labyrinth (1986)

CLASSIC. There was no doubt that Labyrinth would top the list. The reasons Labyrinth is our number one are so numerous that we have to cut back or you would be reading an extended essay. The costume designer for Labyrinth had Brian Frouds immersive mythology to work from. Froud created not only a cast of amazing characters but also the in depth Labyrinth universe. If you are looking for inspiration, we suggest getting yourself a bottle of red, a note pad and a number two pencil to sketch the numerous gowns, masks and venetian costumes. In Labyrinth the look is flowing, an overuse of material to create movement and an abuse of costume jewelry are also the main focus. Just as Sarah had no idea where to look when she entered be ball, guests of The Goblin Ball would have no idea where to look when you step in front of them.

So add your inspiration. What movies or books have helped create your character? And don't forget Tickets are Pre-book only!


We can't wait to see you on the night!

As told with Labyrinth Graphics.

The Goblin Ball is an event of grand proportions. Class and elegance is important if you are attending as royalty, or grit and grime will suit those creatures from the depths of the Goblin Gutters. With so much on offer on this evening it is easy to be unprepared to experience everything on offer so it is wise to do some planning before to maximize your experience.

Tickets
This may sound like a simple thing to remember however we have had the occasional goblin attempt to bribe their way in on the evening. As the venue of this magical evening is quite strict on letting rabble through the gate, tickets must be purchased before the event. You can do so here and it is recommended to purchase at least a month beforehand.

Costume
Costumes make a statement about who you are and why you are there. The grander the costume, the grander the character. Are you a regal being from another dimension there to seek the admiration of your fellow guests or are you a traveling gypsy who is looking to deal and steal their way through the evening? Chose simple additions and embellishments to give a silent nod to where you come from. If you come from an earth realm, maybe include faux leaves and beads that represent your world. Those from a celestial plane could incorporate battery operated LED lights for a cost effective but powerful impact.

Your Makeup
Makeup is important. Some see it as their war paint or a way to elevate themselves above the commoners. Check out this interview with Mad Dame for some amazing tips on how to approach your makeup for the evening. If you have the funds and would like to have someone do it for you check out the resources part of the Attractions page here. If you would like to wear some interesting contacts to enhance your look further check out Crazy Contacts for some very affordable eye bling.

Your Currency
This is something that isn’t really featured in many events. At The Goblin Ball our guests seem to like the experience of sharing things from their own worlds. Some guests in the past have brought little trinkets to trade with each other such as jewels, handmade jewelry, spells and talismans. Although this is an optional addition to the evening, you may find it fun to trade trinkets and bribe other guests into doing some crazy things with a little gift. A quick search on ebay can help you find hundreds of bulk trinkets for a small fee. You could even take a trip into nature to gather your own pouches of shells, nuts or treasures to trade. With a little preparation and creativity you would be surprised how valuable your creations become in the right environment.

Food in your belly
Make sure you are fed beforehand. The Goblin Ball is a LONG evening of revelry and it is easy to get exhausted and hungry. There will be food trucks in the area till approx 9pm however they will be a short walk away. Come satisfactorily fed and ready to dance!

Money in your pocket
Although entertainment is included in your ticket price, the goodies for sale in The Goblin Market  and drinks at the bar will require human money. If you think you would like to leave with a limited edition Goblin Balm or Horror prop replica make sure you have some funds to cover your purchases as not all stalls will have card facilities.

The Grand Event
So you have arrived at The Goblin Ball and everything is happening at once! Where do you go first? The Goblin Ball can be disorienting for those who have not experienced an event like this before so there are the amazing Acolytes of Ember Rule waiting to guide you in the right direction. If you need additional help you can ask a Ringmaster dressed in red and black to assist. They may be evil, but they know how to get a job done.

Entering The Goblin Ball
From 7pm you may enter the world of The Goblin Ball to explore and gather your bearings. Entering via the main bar you can buy a drink and socialize then move into the Goblin Marketplace and have a photo or two or cloak your outer garbs. Around the venue there are run sheets of the evening posted so you will know key times for events and their locations.

The Beginning of The Goblin Ball
At 8pm be sure to enter the Grand Ballroom where Pintina will be brought to answer for last years murder. The Goblin Ball will officially commence and essential information will be provided on the running of the evening.

After the official opening, The Quests (party games) will be ready in the Goblin Marketplace where you can help a creature with their secret plans and earn a prize. The Gods inferno will be open for your song requests and light tinkers will be provided for those who wish to dance the dance magic. The string quartet will continue to provide elegant entertainment in the Grand Ballroom and you may spin around the dance floor with a loved one (current or possible future) or relax with friends and plan your next move.

The Middle of the Goblin Ball
Judges will be roaming the venue to provide those with astounding costumes the opportunity to walk the red carpet and try their hand at the best dressed. The Walk of the Gods (best dressed) will be held halfway through the evening to parade those chosen. With the blessing of the Gods it is possibly that even you may be crowned the King or Queen of The Goblin Ball.

The End of The Goblin Ball
At 11.30 The evening winds down in the Grand Ballroom where the evenings story is drawn to a close and gratitude is paid to all those who have toiled long and hard at making the Goblin Ball a reality. As per Goblin Ball tradition, we dance until 13 O’clock (12am) with guests to the official song of the Goblin Ball - Dance Magic.

We can't wait to have you experience this magical evening with us and the companies that have worked hard to bring this event into reality. The Goblin Ball is a collaboration between countless individuals and many companies who have worked tirelessly together who are united by the passion of retro fantasy, magic and the love of a night to remember.


And remember... It's only forever.

The disclaimer. The Goblin Ball is in no way affiliated with the movie Labyrinth nor the Jim Henson company. all copyright reserved by the original parties and this article is presented as a fan homage to the movie as well as a good opportunity to have a laugh. Visit www.henson.com

We at The Goblin Ball are AMAZED at the attention to detail this Jareth doll has included. It's so lifelike and almost ready to jump out and kidnap your little brother.

These David Bowie fan art creations are jaw droppingly amazing and created by the paranormally talented Katyok from deviontart. 

Katyok says

"The dolls are illustrations of the characters from my stories. I do not manufacture the dolls, neither do I sell them. I do all of the customization and painting, as well as most of the garment design and construction."

In regard to the David Bowie replicas, unfortunately they are not for sale and understandably she has received a LOT of requests. Me, for one was the first to check out the sale price of these amazing creations.


Here are a few more of these amazing idols.

These dolls are quite the creation and if you are like us at The Goblin Ball headquarters you may have fell in love with one or two of them.

You can stalk Katyok on her personal web page too and see her other amazing fantasy dolls and art! Her personal art is phenomenal.