If Victorian Opulence, an ambitious art/fashion show inspired by an almost forgotten era of imperial glory, turns out to be both entertaining and educational ... well, why be surprised?
It certainly looks like it's going to be both. Kristine Diven, one of its principal organizers, is also hoping that the November 19 gala will nicely complement the growing enthusiasm in these parts for Steampunk - that imaginative "what if?" world that artistically re-imagines a 19th-century with modern technology and nuances. It's an enthusiasm that she herself saw germinate in New York when events like Opulence were the norm rather than an entertaining exception.
"I'm from New York originally and was involved with an amazing group called Dances of Vice," says Diven. "The memory of those special events marinated for the last few years - and quite honestly, I miss all the chances and the excuses that New York always provides for dressing up in full regalia. And as a collector of custom made shoes and boots, Victorian bodices, mourning dresses, corsets, bonnets, feathers gloves, etc., I deeply enjoy any opportunity to pull out MY finery and also to view such items in other people's collections."
"So after settling into Detroit and finding a nice little comfort zone for our space (known as District VII) I and my friends decided November would be a lovely time for a first Victorian event. We've decided to put together a ball, with entertainment, art, nibbles, libations, and fun goodies available for purchase in the store that would make fabulous, unique holiday gifts for friends and family of our patrons."
"This event will be the first of it's kind for us, but we plan on having events that are Victorian and Steampunk in nature every 2-3 months from now on. The interest of those hearing about the upcoming event has been huge and it's been incredibly fun to amass talent and eye candies over the last few weeks."
"The talent and 'eye candy' assembled for Victorian Opulence is certainly an impressive roster in itself. Satori Circus and the Detroit Dizzy Dames will both share and take over the stage at intervals.There will be a fashion show for two local female designers: Fotoula Lambros and Ivy's Corsets."
"Musicality and ambiance will be provided by Bethany Shorb - who will be providing a number of arts and props for the show. Other music will come from the likes of Doc Colony. Miss Pixi Holladay and Ed Gardiner have been called upon to create menus of delicious and rich treats,and our friend Aragorn, owner of Detroit Tea Co will provide fresh, rich cocoa and fancy hot teas."
"The Mannequin Forest that District VII contributed to MakerFaire earlier this year will make a reappearance - albeit with certain Steampunk flourishes in keeping with the show's overall theme."
"Ms. Shorb's taxidermy collection has already been properly mounted; and there will be combos of personal collections, replete with medical antiques, steamer trunks filled with old lace and hats, and mannequins decked out in authentic garb."
"Throw in several tables and chairs for guests to enjoy teas, touch-up/primping areas for both ladies and gents, photo zones, gilded angels, and flowers all about the room and you have an atmosphere of luxuriousness that nicely touches upon both refined gentility and playful decadence."
"A very special item on the event's dance card will be hourly performances and readings from a number of talented and admired Detroit friends, as well as an ongoing 'immersive interactive play area' hosted by writer Kathe Koja, author of Under thePoppy."
"Les Barany helped coordinate an art display featuring works by several of his New York clients - including pieces by Diven that have hitherto never been seen by her Detroit fans. There will also be contributions from Adam Layne, Aunia Kahn, Diane Irby, Tradd Featherstone, Noelle Starshyne, Chad Michael Ward, HR Giger, Jeffery Scott, Ryan Lavoisin, Bridgett Ritz, Marianne Audrey Burrows, Timothy Orikri, DVS, BethanyShorb, Detonik:Seven, Vato and Pixi Holladay. All of the art on the walls will be available for purchase."
Victorian & Steampunk Ball at District VII
November 19, 2011
VIP Preview 7-8 p.m.
Public Hours 8 p.m.-1 a.m.
District VII Detroit
2690 Wight St., Detroit
$10 advance, $15 at the door. Or $10 at the door if you're dressed up really extra fabulous
