The 12th Annual Edwardian Ball January 20, 2012

An elegant, whimsical, over-the-top two-day costume extravaganza honoring the eccentric author and illustrator Edward Gorey. Imagine taking a magnificent, turn-of-the-century excursion where ladies dressed in petticoats and corsets mingle with time-traveling thrill seekers; a world where cabaret meets carnival - the magical frolics side by side with the macabre. Envision a fanciful intimation of an imaginary era; a splendid time when music, fashion, art, circus and dance come together in unprecedented expression.

The event on Friday, January 20th is called The Edwardian World's Faire with special one-night-only attractions, confirming why many choose to attend both nights. The two nights of unstoppable action will feature Rosin Coven, Vau de Vire Society, Jill Tracy, Dark Garden Corsetry, John Brothers Piano Duo, DJs Delachaux and Fact50, Fou Fou HA!, The Fosettes, and much more. Audience participation is encouraged when attendees partake in historic carnival games, an antique portrait studio, an authentic tea parlor or several old-fashion rides, including a bicycle-powered Ferris wheel by local bike pirates Cyclecide. All in attendance are invited to return to a time of gentility by creating characters and costumes for the occasion - costumed attire is highly recommended.
At the extensive Vendor Bazaar located on the lower level each night (free on Saturday from noon to 6 p.m.) attendees can browse and/or purchase authentic fashion, costumes, accessories, jewelry and plenty of relevant, rare oddities. The Vendor Bazaar will also feature musical entertainment, strolling performers and a hosted Edwardian Gaming Parlour.

For the first time, the San Francisco Edwardian Ball will take over all three levels of the historic Regency Ballroom for the debut of our “Museum of Wonders – An Edwardian Odditorium” transforming the exquisite, mysterious and venerable Regency Lodge (see http://bit.ly/360lodge for a panoramic view). A limited number of guided tours through the Museum will be offered throughout the evening. The coveted tours will begin with a nostalgic ride in a turn-of-the-century elevator; guests will arrive and be escorted through a eccentric collection of curiosities, unusual art & peculiar artifacts, living human statue garden, steam-powered rides & technology, spectacular circus sideshows, and even more surprises, all while being serenaded by the haunting soundtrack of the authentic 1900’s pipe organ.

Another special feature this year is an overseas visit by the King of “Chap Hop,” Professor Elemental. Hailing from the UK, the Professor will be headlining the main stage at Friday night’s World’s Faire, no doubt donning his proper Fighting Trousers (http://bit.ly/EdElemental). In addition to his stage appearance, we are pleased to announce a new Saturday afternoon event, “High Tea with The Professor,” wherein a limited number of guests may purchase tickets for "proper tea" with our esteemed guest inside the "Museum of Wonders."

Official Website: http://edwardianball.com