luckykaa

So, my initial thoughts on the masquerade was one of slight uncertainty.  The thing is, the quality of some of the masters didn't look that great.  Then it ocurred to me - I was right up front, and these are about looking good on stage.  They make them big, and showy!

Still, I was particularly imprssed with one of the novice category.  Dragonriders of Pern with a Dalek.  Most bizarre, but really good. The dalek was fabric, with hula hoop for the base.  A lot of work, and a wonderfulo presentation.

Other great ones were a steampunk lady demonstrating her "marvelous machine".  This was all about detail work.  Lots of really nice dials a guages.  Then there was the leather clad sky pirates with a fantastic flying contraption. 

Also notable was a Prince Zuko, who did some loely streamer based fire effects, and a character from Tsubasa. 

As mentioned, Emma demonstrated a stemapunk kimono. And wore it to the parties afterwards. 

The event seemed just a little different from ones I'm used to. Firstly, there were no mics.  Also the MC wasn't as polished as the people I'm used to at British cons, but that might be just that the handful of british presenters have been doing this for long enough that they know what puns they need and how many cat stories. 

I do want to do an entry at Worldcon 2014.  I'd like to do something for Redemption, but I lack a sewing machine, have no idea where the fabric shops are and hve no inspiration... 

It took a while to get into the con frame of mind.  Finding it hard to accost random people and chat.  We really need a large chill out area.  Not the con suite.  Somewhere that invites people sit sit around and chat or play fluxx or werewolf (or werewolf fluxx).  And I've been pacing myself for the parties.

Panels were a mixed bag.  Some a little too serious.  Decided to volunteer for the voting desk for 2014 Worldcon because that seemed like it would be fun.  You get to meet people and chat. 

Also volunteered to be a masquerade Ninja (stage hand stuff) and got a ribbon for my badge. I have been shunning ribbons, but this was one I actually earned, and it was black writing on a black background and says "ninja" so I decided it's justified. 

I was nominated as a catcher.  This involves sitting t the front of the stage and stopping people from falling off.  Does give a very good view of things.  I really wish I'd brought something I'd built.  Other people are better at sewing but I think my props and concepts are usually good enough for novice category. 

Admired Emma's costume.  She decided last minute that she would enter, and won a prize for workmanship - "judges theft" award for the one she most wanted to steal (the judges have a certain amount of discretion on what awards they give).  It was a Steampunk kimono - made from home bleached fabric. 

Aquisitions include a Girl Genius book (signed) and a tie dyed phoenix t-shirt.

Shall talk abut parties soonish.