 Would you like to win a double pass to The Goblin Ball 2015 and two decks of Tarot Cards featuring your own design, presented in limited edition collector boxes? Total Prize value $320 Dark Realm Events is looking for the next Goblin Artist to help design the official Goblin Ball Tarot Cards. These tarot cards will be sold at events hosted by Dark Realm. Dark realm is a company that prides itself on creating evenings of mythological and mystical immersion and this is your chance to become part of the magic. The Goblin Ball Tarot Design Competition is open to all fantasy artists and enthusiasts alike. See the below guidelines to enter and if you have any questions we will use them to create a FAQ section below. Submit your designs after reading the details below to AskUs@TheGoblinBall.com The Competition
The Design
The Tarot Suit The Tarot suit that the cards will be used for is the Rider Waite suit. More details about the history of the Rider Waite Tarot here.  Test Logo Winners and The Terms of Use
Send any further questions to AskUs@TheGoblinBall.com and we will do our best to answer them in 24-48 hours.
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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! 
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The Goblin Ball is brought to life in the imagination of our guests. With the calibre of artists who attend The Goblin Ball (come on! You are ALL artists! Look at your outrageous costumes!) we are always surprised and honored to have people who are willing to play! From amazing art, to short stories we are always excited and honored to be the recipient of such wonderful creations! The Ice Guardian (played by the menacing, yet calm Charley Noates) has sent us an account of what happened when he returned to The Ice Kingdom. The Ice Guardian spent the evening bestowing passive aggressive offerings of Chili Chocolate to our Fire Gods. Did you know chocolate cancels out the burning fire of chili. Extremely thoughtful yet disturbing and completely appropriate. Here is his account of what happened to the Ice Guardian following The Goblin Ball. 
(c) PMD Studios
The Return to the Ice KingdomThe Snow Guardian took a deep breath as he entered the Ice Palace. While he always strove to maintain a calm and detached demeanor the recent trip to the Ember Rule had taxed his endurance. Returning to his birthplace of ice and snow restored his strength and calmed his thoughts. Nodding curtly to the palace guards as he walked, he thought over the recent events. The escape of Princess Pintina from the Ice Kingdom, her theft of the Snow Apples and her defection to the Ember Rule. It was with these matters in mind that he strode towards the quarters of his ruler and creator, the Ice Queen herself. As he entered she was seated upon a chair that could almost be a throne unto itself, wide and high-backed, crafted from purest diamond ice and softest snowsilks, turning over what appeared to be a sky blue rose in her hands . Her gaze looked him over and, as ever, he felt the full force of her assessment fall upon him. He closed the doors behind him before he approached and knelt in respect and reverence. "My Snow Guardian," she said, her voice soft yet chilling at the same time, "my keeper of secrets and whisperer of honeyed words. You have returned from the Ember rule, from the care of my warm sister unharmed." She paused as she looked him over, her eyes catching momentarily on his hands, still mildly misshapen from where the Fire God had gripped them. "Mostly unharmed, it seems." Her eyes grew harsh again and her lips pursed. "But I did not summon you. Why have you come before me?" The Snow Guardian took a breath. He knew that he was about to tread on dangerously thin ice, and to speak poorly would result in nothing less than his very literal destruction. "Majesty, I have served as your loyal subject for many centuries now, and been your eyes and ears among the last two Goblin Balls. It is for this reason I need to ask you a question, simple in its asking but terrible in its implications." "As you know," he began, "when Princess Pintina escaped from the custody of our kingdom she took with her Snow Apples stolen from your own garden. These apples are an incredible source of Ice Kingdom magical power, and our kingdom is lessened by their loss." He saw her eyes narrow upon him, but carried on, knowing he was already past the point of no return. "And while at the Ball in the Ember Rule I witnessed the same Princess, now turned to the energies of fire instead of frost, steal the Heart of the Fire God." "Many would think that Pintina is opportunistic, seeking to move from Kingdom to Kingdom until she finds a place of sufficient power or opulence. Some would assume that Pintina is working to usurp the powers of the various Kingdoms, that she first stole Snow Apples and then the Heart, and next would seek to steal the items of power from Terra Bayou and Starlantis. " He raised an eyebrow and continued to speak carefully. "But I have considered a third option. That these actions are the results of a higher plan. A plan that, like the mind which conceived it, is cold, calculating and ruthless. A plan that moves with the patience and unstoppable certainty of a glacier." The Snow Guardian stood and looked his queen directly in her eyes. "Majesty, my question is this: Is Pintina actually still loyal to you, and working under your instructions to steal the items of power from the other realms?" One would not think it possible for the air in an Ice Palace to grow cold.... We LOVE to hear your stories and see your artwork and would love to share it on our page! Feel free to send any submissions to askus@TheGoblinBall.com and we will share them for you!
 (c) Ellen Duffy Photography. The Talented Troy Larkin as the Fire God Ebon 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!  (c) Ellen Duffy Photography The Goblin Ball 2014The 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!  (c) Ellen Duffy Photography. The Ringmasters The Ring MastersJust 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 and the AcolytesPintina 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 QuestmastersThe 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.  The GodsPaiva 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 Best DressedThe 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!)  From Ember Rule to Terra BayouSo 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.
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!  Emma Fenwick Photography 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?  Jaque Black Psychic 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.
Every good deed is rewarded with a prize, but will you be valiant or dastardly in your choice?  Ellen Duffy Photography 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.  Animata String Quartet 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”.  Ellen Duffy Photography 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.  Lamplight Circus 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.  Bon Bon. 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 
Alice Popkorn (c)
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. 
Alice Popkorn (c)
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. 
Alice Popkorn (c)
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. 
Alice Popkorn (c)
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. 
Alice Popkorn (c)
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. 
Alice Popkorn (c)
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 FAQ about Swordplay at The Goblin BallQ. 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.  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.
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. 
Can I call a cab? (c) Henson Ltd.
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. BEFORE THE EVENT
I thought all I needed to do was turn up and then I have to deal with this? (c) Henson Ltd
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. 
Be mindful of your junk when creating a costume. (c) Henson Ltd
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. 
Perfection is so hard to imitate. Don't even try. (c) Henson Ltd.
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. 
Is that one of those Loom Bands? Cause that's just a cop out. (c) Henson Ltd
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. On the Eve of The Goblin Ball
Is this Gluten Free? (c) Henson Ltd
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. At The Goblin Ball
Let's get our DRANK on. (c) Henson Ltd.
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. 
I'm sure the toilets were around here somewhere... (c) Henson Ltd
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. 
Well this is awkward. (c) Henson ltd.
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. 
Shit got weird. (c) Henson Ltd.
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. 
Tight pants optional (c) Henton Ltd.
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. 
And now we are home... it was just a dream! Damn I hate it when they do that in movies. (c) Henson Ltd.
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. 
It's only forever... (c) Henson ltd
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 |
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