Joe Beuerlein: Gorey Gorey Hallelujah
I am all about themed parties. In the last two years, I have attended soirees with names that pretty much sum up the expected attire (Polyester, Superheroes, Trailer Trash, Toga, Pirate, Tie-and-Underwear), as well as more ambiguous affairs that require a little imagination (Heaven & Hell, Come As You're Not, outdoor October weddings), and one that I certainly hope there are no pictures from ([Name changed to protect the guilty]'s 23rd Birthday Porn Party).
Imagine my joy at the news that the Actors Co-op, everyone's favorite Knoxville theatre troupe, is putting on a darkly themed fete of their own, just in time for Halloween. This Saturday, the Co-op is proudly hosting "A Gorey Masquerade Ball" at 8 pm at the World Grotto. This is the cream of the crop of costume parties, folks. A masquerade ball by itself would have been exciting, but throwing in the Edward Gorey modifier ensures that this will be a creepy affair.
Gorey can be readily Googled, so I will forego a biography here. His artwork has been seen in over 100 books (mostly his own), so even Gorey virgins have probably seen his stuff somewhere, maybe even PBS. This MYSTERY! intro sufficiently gave me the willies as a kid:
I hope the Gorey Ball has that sort of ambiance. If only the Grotto looked more like a Victorian country estate...
Amy Hubbard, artistic director of the Co-op, is busying herself with preparations for the Ball. Her costume, I'm informed, will be that of Edna from Gorey's The Willowdale Handcar or The Return of the Black Doll. Furthermore, an autographed copy of Handcar will be up for auction, as well as some other items, including work by local artist Cynthia Markert. Door prizes, live music, and tarot and palm readings should keep the Ball crowd entertained, even if their stiff Edwardian collars and head scarves start to get uncomfortable.
What: A Gorey Masquerade Ball
When: Saturday, October 14th
Where: The World Grotto
How Much: $25
Why: Why not?
Comments
Hey all - we also have session with psychic Bobby Drinnon up for auction.
Please come on! It's going to be a fine and gorey night.
Posted by: Amy Hubbard | October 11, 2006 12:34 PM