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.

One shot of fun, two shots of sweetness and a whole lot of sexy; this Blonde Bombshell will tickle your tastebuds with her cute curves and cheeky smile…

Marilyn Mocktail has always loved to dance, and after joining the Bottoms Up Burlesque School in 2012 decided to take that passion to the stage. She debuted her first solo act at the iconic Burlesque Bar in 2013, and since then has been teasing her way onto the Melbourne scene through regular appearances at Club Voltaire, as well as performing in the world first Burleskathon – 24 Hours of Tease.

This year at The Zombie Prom Marilyn Mocktail takes on the role of Zombie Cheerleader for a very special act this Halloween at The Zombie Prom! We caught up with Ms Mocktail and asked her a few questions!

Burlesque is such an amazing and classic form of dance, it’s seen a resurgence since the days of Moulin Rouge the movie and other revivals of style. What attracted you to the performance art form? 

I love the fact that Burlesque allows you to be creative and unique; each piece has its own different story. I think it’s also very empowering, and as someone who grew up with self esteem issues I saw Burlesque as being an opportunity to overcome those issues and really embrace who I am.

Even though you have only started out, what would you say has been your favorite performance so far? 

Definitely the Burleskathon! A large number of Australian Burlesque performers, both new and established, all came together and put on a 24 hour non-stop burlesque show which officially made the Guinness World Records. I performed my “Fireman” routine 6 times between 8:30am and 12pm on a Sunday. It was a very unique experience to say the least, and had a great community feel to it.

Luckily Burlesque is constantly growing in popularity and so many events are coming up that include amazing Burlesque acts. Where would be your ultimate venue to perform?

I think performing in the Las Vegas Burlesque Hall of Fame would be an amazing experience! That would be a dream come true for me.

Zombie Cheerleader is a pretty weird request  (and a far cry from Las Vegas), what has been your weirdest or most unique character up until now?

In my most recent routine I play a 1920’s silent movie housewife who is mourning after finding out her husband has just left her. However as she begins to undress she embarks on a journey of self discovery which involves (literally) finding the colour in her life. I’m also in the process of working on a routine where I will play a Black Widow Spider which I’m very excited about!

A Black Widow Spider would be phenomenally creepy for some people! This year you are a Zombie Cheerleader, what do you think you would do among a room full of Unruly Zombies?

I would teach them how to dance without dropping limbs everywhere, and maybe give a few of them makeovers. Because rotting flesh is SO not in this season.

You can catch Marilyn Mocktail performing her amazing Zombie Routine ONE NIGHT ONLY at The Zombie Prom @ Lucky 13 Garage. Click here for the event page! And Book Tickets Here

ROLL UP! ROLL UP!

The most exciting sale is here!!

Get in fast to get 2 high resolution digital images from the fabulous Goblin Ball for the PRICE OF ONE! 
MADNESS!!
But get in quick, sale ends on the 19th!

Just head to this link: 
http://www.ellenduffy.com/p951120886
Select which photos you want, and select package 
‘Buy One Get One FREE’!

Support your local artists! All proceeds going to Ellen Duffy finally having an photography exhibition at the end of the year, huzzah!


Remember by purchasing photo's of your Goblin Ball experience also helps The Goblin Ball with enticing photographers the calibre of Ellen Duffy back to the next event! We can't wait to bring her back next year!


Click the photo below to take advantage of this phenomenal deal!

The Goblin Marketplace is a space for many collectables and trinkets to grab at a special price. We have some amazing Goblin remains from Nightshade FX and some curios that you can only purchase on the night.

We also have vendors who are looking to share their wicked wares and maybe have you leave with a luxury item or two.

We caught up with Mary from Roseberry Bay soaps and asked her a few questions about what makes her magical trinkets so attractive! At a price range starting from $5 there is always the possibility you can leave with a trinket from the market.

How long have you been making soaps and why did you start?

I started making soaps about 5 years ago. I had always seen these beautiful creations at markets and only ever bought handcrafted soaps as I thought they were better than those that you could buy at the supermarket. One day I decided that, as I was creative and loved a challenge, I would give making my own soaps a go - and then I was hooked! I love the fact that I can say what ingredients go into each soap, that I can dictate how they look and how they smell.

Why did you decide to travel all the way to The Goblin Ball to sell your wares?

I decided to try my wares at the Goblin Ball as it seemed to me to be a unique marketplace which will be filled with creative and enthusiastic people. People who will understand my creative processes and appreciate the hard work and soul that goes into each soap I make.

Your soaps and lotions have an amazing blend of ingredients. What goes into such a delightful potion?

Any good soap should have a mix of good quality oils and butters. I don't use Palm Oil in any of my soaps as I care for the world I live in and don't think that it is a necessity. The majority of commercial soaps aren't in fact soaps at all! They, like shower gels, are detergents ... full of harsh chemicals and artificial components that aren't good for the environment or for our skins. I believe that we should only use the purest of ingredients on our largest organ (our skin) so most of my soaps are made using Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Castor Oil and Cocoa, Shea or Macadamia Nut Butter. I also always add either fresh goats milk or coconut cream for luscious creamy lather.

You have such a large collection of magical soaps and goods, what is your favourite delight and what makes you inspired?

My absolute favourite soap for the Goblin Market is the Ember Rule soap. This is fragranced with Sweet Orange and Chilli Pepper fragrance oil which has a sweet and spicy bite which, to me encapsulates the two sides of the Goblin Realm. I also love the colours - yellow, orange, black and white to me speak of flames and heat.

The Goblin Ball is a weird and wonderful event with so many amazing guests. What are you looking forward to on the eve of The Goblin Ball?

The thing I am looking forward to most of all on the night, is seeing everyone in their amazing costumes. I was supposed to attend last year but had to pull out at the last moment as I was ill. The photos I've seen of the night drove home to me the dedication and passion that those attending have - and I'm excited to see everyone in the flesh.

With The Goblin Ball almost two weeks away we thought we would let you guys in on a few secrets! On the eve of The Goblin Ball, creatures and royalty will be traveling from distant lands to pursue plans and party the night away. A magical night is planned for even the most mortal of creatures.

So if you are planning a night of drunken revelry or a chance to meet some like minded magical mates, The Goblin Ball will be a night where you can explore and take advantage of all the mysterious areas of entertainment.

In The Beginning…
Once upon a time there was a distant land called Ember Rule. The Acolytes of the land were nervous as rumors quickly spread from afar. Was the Fire God dead at the hands of the Ice Princess? Could the dastardly deed executed in The Ice Kingdom mean their most admired leader was nothing more than ashes? What could this mean for Ember Rule and was there any chance that these rumors were nothing but false words spread to cause unrest? The arrival of Princess Pintina is eagerly awaited as questions need to be answered.

A busy marketplace welcomes you…
As you enter the world of Ember Rule, as either a guest or a self made character you will be ushered into the Goblin Marketplace filled with many traders awaiting to eagerly take your money in trade of exclusive goods. Will you choose to take home a potion or magical lotion, maybe a horror replica or new costume is more your style? Perhaps you would like a psychic reading? We have many vendors who are happy to facilitate the removal of cash from your pouch. Don’t forget to cloak your cape!

The story begins…
In the Grand Ballroom the clock strikes 8pm. Pintina is ushered in from The Ice Kingdom after traveling one human year on the road (100 years for goblin kind). She has had a lot to think about before the faces she most scariest creature known to goblin-kind. Her birth mother. The Goblin Ball is officially launched and the revelry will continue till the clock strikes the magical hour of midnight.

Bribes welcome!
Did you come prepared to swap a few goodies? You may find that fellow revelers would be more than happy to help with a few bribes. Feel free to look into what you may want to trade with fellow guests in this post. We find the sweeter the deal, the more favorable the outcome. Who doesn’t love to leave a party with a few trinkets?

A Quest is presented…
The Goblin Ball is in full swing but you wish to assist to show your alliance with a certain realm. In the Goblin Marketplace Quest Masters await your assistance. 

• Amak the guard of The Ice Kingdom is calling for the head of Princess Pintina for the evil she has caused his Royalty. If you would like to wage war at The Goblin Ball Amak can help make those intentions known. 
  
• Hasina Ember Rule’s own High Priestess would love your help with pardoning Pintina and showing great forgiveness. Seek her if your heart is true and compassionate. 
  
• Bodhisattva the seer from Starlantis is seeking psychics to help with acquiring objects of knowledge to help expose a dark secret. If you feel guided by your inherent powers to assist, see Bodhisattva for purpose.
  
• Maude the Poppet Peddler from Terra Bayou is a purveyor of fine keys. If you see yourself as a rogue thief, he could use your assistance. 
  

Every good deed is rewarded with a prize, but will you be valiant or dastardly in your choice?

I’m ready for my closeup.
A selection of 6 professional photographers will be wandering The Goblin Ball ready to take photos of you and your friends.  The hardest choice you will have is who will be bestowed the honor to take your photo and who you would like to be seen with on the evening. The Gods, Acolytes and Quest Masters will be more than happy to oblige you with a pose or two. Ellen Duffy Photography will also be located in The Goblin Marketplace offering a photo shoot experience for those who wish to capture the moment with friends.

Play the song of my people.
The Gods inferno is a DJ room taking requests for the evening of The Goblin ball between the end of the opening show till the wind down of the evening (approx. 8.15pm - 11pm). Light trinkets will be handed out by Acolytes to those who wish to party in the red room including glow bands and finger lights. In The Grand Ballroom from 7 - 11.30 Animata String Quartet will play string renditions of modern tracks including a selection of songs from the movie Labyrinth. What a great opportunity to grab your loved one and waltz “As The World Falls Down”.

Take a walk 
The Walk of The Gods calls those in amazing garb. From 8 till 10pm costume scouts will walk The Goblin Ball handing out tickets to parade for the Gods at 10 pm. If you are lucky enough to be awarded the opportunity seek The Ringmaster Darko or O at 9.30 for instruction on what to do in the main hall. The parade commences at 10pm so be organized early for you may be awarded the prestigious title of best dressed for 2014.

Marvel at Entertainment most amazing.
In the Grand Ballroom we have wandering magicians, jugglers and dancers who dazzle and perform for your entertainment. The style is close up entertainment and you may find your friends lucky enough to be audience to some of The Goblin Balls most magical entertainment. Lamplight Circus, Magicians from the Magic Festival and Shimmy Bliss will all make an appearance at this years Ball.

The Evening draws to a close
Commencing from 11.30 the evenings drama draws to a close and the story ends. You are now welcomed to join in the official dance of The Goblin Ball, “Dance Magic” with all who made it possible and dance to other favorite tracks from fantasy movies until the clock strikes midnight.

We can't wait to have you as guests to Melbourne's very own Goblin Ball. Much fun is to be had for those who seek to party but also for those who wish to play a character. 
Book Now to avoid disappointment 

In 2013 an friendship was formed between a fantasy company and a well established Horror Company. Through countless Pizzas and an undying love for all that is Labyrinth, Nightshade FX from Wicked of Oz studios and Dark Realm formed a tight bond to bring The Goblin Ball 2013 to life. 

Transporting a movie set designed for trolls to the Regal Ballroom in Northcote, Nightshade FX helped bring the first annual Goblin Ball to life. This year they bring their amazing curios to Northcote Town Hall to take place as featured Vendor for The Goblin Ball 2014.

We caught up with them to see what we could expect this year!

How did you get started in the horror prop industry?

I blame Michael Jackson, Stan Winston, George Lucas and Wes Craven. I grew up loving music which naturally lead me to Michael Jackson who dominated the 80's. I had the VHS of "Thriller", ya know, the one with the full short film and the making of at the end of it. I wore the tape out! I used to play it over and over and over, driving my mother insane. Something about those zombies man, they were just so pure, so perfect. Then came Nightmare on Elm street, I remember riding home from school and hiring horror VHS's and watching them before my parents got home from work then hiding them. Mum hated me watching them but hey, here I am right? 

Ive always been a creative kid, drawing zombies and vampires and dinosaurs, building cardboard costumes, or prop weapons which naturally lead to makeup and fx. After I met my future wife, things started to snowball when she had the opportunity to work on Troll Bridge (in its 11th year of production funnily), with director and our now best friend Daniel Knight. 

He is the main reason for everything to be honest. He trusted me straight up with handling gore on his short films. We made several films with him which lead to more contacts, more zombies, more films, then I met Justin Dix who gave me a chance to sink or swim on Red Hill, then I was hired for 100 Bloody Acres and The Babadook. Last year I started making human skull replicas cast from the real thing, then it just took off and now were swimming in them!

What was your favourite movie to work on and what were some of the highlights?

I'd have to say Troll Bridge and 100 bloody acres for totally different reasons. I got to go to New Zealand with all of my best friends in some pretty crazy locations from Lord of the Rings, with a Barbarian on a talking horse. Nothing can really compare to that sort of experience. On 100 bloody acres, shredding up a full silicone human replica, complete with muscles, veins, skeleton etc into a woodchipper with one of your favourite artists (Justin Dix) was unforgettable but the true highlight was honestly cruising to Adelaide with him. We were in the middle of nowhere talking about Star Wars (Justin made R2 and 3PO) when all of a sudden "DALE STOP!!!! STORMTROOPER!!!!" I s++t you not there was a Storm trooper in the middle of the desert walking so we stopped and got a photo with the guy. Life man, seriously!

What was the weirdest thing you have made?

I'd have to say a body covered in stab wounds that had to squirt like a fountain. Yup!

The thought of working horror freaks out some people. Have you had any scary experiences on the job?

Honestly when your life revolves around dead bodies, skulls, the occult, and the supernatural, not much scares me. If you really want to know, the general public scare me!

What can we expect at the Goblin Ball 2014?

I guess you'll just have to wait, though you can be sure, it'll be weird

A HUGE Thank you and shout out to Nightshade FX who have shown so much support with bringing The Goblin Ball to life.

If you would like to attend The Goblin Ball make sure you buy your tickets here! 

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.

This year we have a HUGE army of photographers at The Goblin Ball. 
Snapping guests are the likes of Matt from PMD studios, Kavita from Kapana photography, FreshPhotography and even GoreJess photography will be making an appearance. Ellen Duffy is not forgotten and has an amazing portfolio that even YOU could be added to!

Ellen Duffy is managing the photo shoot (photobooth) area in The Goblin Marketplace this year and making sure to capture people in their finery. She will also be wandering the event looking for some interesting characters to capture.

We thought we would catch up with Ellen Duffy from Ellen Duffy photography to work out how you can get the best photo from The Goblin Ball as a guest.

What so far has been your favorite event to photograph and what made it so exciting?

The most exciting that springs to mind would be the All Hallows Eve party in October last year, I’d never met more inspiring and creative people in Australia before that night. I started the night not knowing anyone and shyly bringing out my camera, then after a fantastic conversation with a white ice queen (who happened to be the organiser’s mother) following a glass of wine, I couldn’t put my camera down. I’d finally found a group of people that instead of having to disguise my weirdness, they embraced me the more strange I became! Every photo from that night popped for the crowd was as vibrantly electric and sparkly on the outside as they were on the inside. I follow them everywhere with my camera now!

You have an astounding studio portfolio too. Do you think this helps your event style in bringing an additional creativity?

I was trained in studio portraiture and weddings by two completely contrasting photographers which was an accidently fantastic happenstance and allowed me to one week focus on how to control every aspect of the light in a studio, to very quickly know how to set up a shot using one light during a wedding out on location, and having this balance in my photography is so important. I definitely prefer event photography to studio for I’m consistently excited by the challenge of each day- you never know what the lighting will be, how the patrons will accept you being there, what backgrounds you have to work with, etc. If anything I feel that my event work has helped me in the studio, for I have a lot less to worry about in the studio. It’s rather freeing being a control freak in a studio, then having the universe control you when you’re on location.  

If I saw you at the goblin ball, what should I do? Should I say hello or should I give you some crazy ideas?

Firstly, ALWAYS say hello. Even if you were a stranger I’d most likely say hello back then give you a cuddle (I feel people should hug first, talk later).  I’m very much always up for hearing crazy ideas but I come with a brain bursting full of them as well- with our powers combined we will create AWESOME!! Want me to photograph you hanging upside down whilst blowing bubbles out of the long pipe? I’m your girl. Want to interpretive dance with your friends and have me document it whilst I’m lying on the ground? Done. Never done acro yoga and want to give a go with your friends because you’ve had couple of drinks and you think the time is right? I’ll be there. Then I’ll photograph you falling over because that always entertains me.  

As a guest, what tips can you give me to be a good event model for the photographers on the evening?

Already as you’ve arrived you look SENSATIONAL and you’re picked what character you’d like to be for the evening, so EMBRACE IT! Always think, what would your character do? You in no way have to stand there with good posture and smile sweetly for the camera. Believe me, the more you let go and have a ball (see what I did there?) and stop caring about what anyone else thinks, the more fun you’ll have. If you’re not in the mood for a photo, feel free to tell me to leave in your fabulous character voice, and I will bow low and exit appropriately. But really, it was your fault for looking so good it made me want to stalk you with my camera.

What are you looking forward to most at the goblin ball?

I’m looking forward to seeing some of my cos play friends looking sensational, to helping people get out of their shell’s and have a laugh with me and my baby (my camera), to putting the camera down at some point and having a good dance (apparently my dance style looks like 1930’s crossed with old man dancing crossed with a minor fit), and to do my very best at creating some fabulous memories for you to look back when you’re old and showing your grandkids photos of how super cool you used to be.

We found this video while creeping through the underground. Let's see what they have to say. At The Goblin Ball we don't actually agree with this video. It's actually not that accurate but as Labyrinth enthusiasts go it misses a lot of the thoughts we know to make sense.

Firstly it covers the movie in over 8 minutes but you know - whatever gets you to chilly down.