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Convergence 13 SeattleSomething Wicked This Way Comes...May 25-27, 2007Introduction / ThemeMy Dearest Aunt Francis, If you are reading this I am already many miles from town. I know you've seen this day coming long before I did. I saw the look in your eyes when they came to inquire about me the summer before I started school, and again when they came during the drought the year before last. I saw it last week when Mr. Halloway came to tell us they were back in town, and every day since. You know I don't belong here. You know I have to go where I can be with people like me. Your good velvet church coat that went missing is with me. I took and made it into a fine show outfit. I even used the satin lining to make a matching hat! And don't go looking for your good linen tablecloth - I took it down to the barn and painted it up for my show banner. I also used a ball of your good red sock yarn to make the tassels. It has my likeness on it, with a scroll at the top with my name, and fine gold edges, just like the ones we saw at the parade. Oh, Aunt Francis, you'd be so proud of it if you didn't know what it was painted on! I've been saving my earnings from helping Mr. Cooger at the tavern, so I left some money on the mantle to pay you back for what I took. After that I have just enough to get me by until I can start earning my keep. But don't worry, Aunt Francis, you know everyone already wants to get a good look at me, but now they have to pay a whole nickel! You taught me well and cared for me as best you could. I'll keep my wits about me and write when I can. And you know I'll be back every year in the summer... only now I'll be the star of Cirque Macabre! Yours always, Bug ________________________________________ "A presence dark invades the fair Leave the day-to-day world of routine and convention behind, if only for one unforgettable weekend, and run away to join the traveling carnival, Cirque Macabre, where fortune tellers, grifters, burlesque girls, acrobats, jugglers, magicians, contortionists, the art of the sideshow, and all manner of oddities and singularities eccentric, unusual, and diverse are not the exception, but the norm. Taking our inspiration from The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, Something Wicked This Way Comes, Carnivàle, Carnival of Souls, The Elephant Man, and the ragtag street-fair scenes in Johnathan Strange and Mr. Norell, among many others, our proposed theme for Convergence 13 Seattle draws from literary, historical, and cinematic settings ranging from the 1800's through Depression-era traditions of American and European traveling sideshows, carnivals, medicine shows, Vaudeville, and Victorian and Industrial Age obsessions with the unusual, exotic, metaphysical, and occult. We hope you'll join us as our guests as we turn the "dark and peculiar traveling carnival rolls into town" meme of our collective Gothic subconscious into ephemeral reality! SeattleHenry Yesler's mill, opened in 1853, was host to amateur acting companies, traveling minstrel shows, and Shakespearean plays in an era when Early Seattle was a small logging town and later a supply stop en route to the Yukon Gold Rush. Seattle had a sizable workforce of 'seamstresses' - the official tax-record's polite designation for prostitutes - accounting for a major portion of the town's economy. In the heyday of Vaudeville (from the turn of the century through the Roaring 20's) Seattle was home to three entrepreneurs who controlled the majority of Vaudeville theaters in the country - indeed Seattle's Palomar theater, which closed in the 1950's, was the nation's last full-time Vaudeville theater. Today, Seattle is home to world-class symphony, opera, and ballet companies, and is known not only for its largely 'tech sector' economy, jet airplanes, international seaport, Space Needle, historic Pike Place Market, espresso, and microbreweries, but as a vital center for artists, musicians, and other 'creative types' who call the city home. Yet Seattle hasn't forgotten its early Vaudeville and bohemian-era roots, and today, a variety of alternative-oriented circus, fire performance, Vaudeville revival, and burlesque troupes harken to a bygone era, while adding their own uniquely modern touches. Some, like Jim Rose Circus Sideshow, and Circus Contraption, have grown from local acts to widespread renown. The Seattle metropolitan area includes the city of Seattle, King County, Snohomish County, and several surrounding cities in the Puget Sound area. According to the United States 2000 Census, the Combined Statistical Area has a population of 3,604,165, making it the 12th largest United States metropolitan area. While far from the largest metropolitan city in the country, Seattle has a thriving and active goth/industrial scene, and is currently blessed with multiple goth/industrial-friendly club nights to choose from seven days a week. Seattle also boasts an online Gothic community with hundreds of regular and semi-regular participants. In fact, that same board is the progeny of the original message board created for C6! AccommodationsThe metropolitan area of downtown Seattle offers several choices of hotel accommodations. The Seattle C13 committee has made contact with multiple AAA 3 and 4 diamond properties and has been offered room rates starting from $129 double, $139 quad occupancy per night for our 2007 dates. The hotels under consideration are as follows: Sheraton Seattle Hotel http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/search/hotel_detail.html?propertyID=460 "Already recognized for attentive and exceptional service, our AAA Four Diamond hotel offers the freshest guest rooms, corridors, meeting space and lobby in the Northwest. Discover maximum comfort and convenience in each of our 1220+ guest rooms, carefully designed down to the smallest detail." This hotel will be completing a $112 million expansion in the spring of 2007. The renovation includes an addition of 600+ guestrooms and a completely new catering and meeting room facility. Crowne Plaza Seattle http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/cp/1/en/hd/seadt?irs=null "The Crowne Plaza Hotel - Seattle offers a superb location in Downtown Seattle, close to everything great in the Pacific Northwest." The C6 Host hotel is eager to have the opportunity to welcome back Convergence attendees. Red Lion Seattle http://www.redlion5thavenue.com/ "The Red Lion Hotel on Fifth Avenue offers an upscale, boutique hotel experience, personal, award-winning service, first-class meeting space and - perhaps most importantly - breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains, Elliot Bay, the Puget Sound and the Emerald City itself." These hotels that we are currently in negotiations with also have all the amenities that are important to Convergence attendees. Most of these amenities are a given; bars and restaurants within walking distance, liquor store with in 2-3 blocks, as well as exceptional on site amenities including wi-fi. The host hotel will be within the downtown core of Seattle within the 'Ride Free Area' and close to major bus routes to make day activities accessible to everyone. Once chosen the host hotel will provide us with space to host the Trade Show, Panels, Workshops, Art Show and Fashion Show. In light of the success of C12 room block and need for overflow hotels, it is a priority for us to provide enough 'rooms in the inn' for all attendees. Prospective VenuesWe are currently negotiating with the following venues for our evening events. Showbox / Green Room @ Showbox Capacity: 1100, all ages possible Location: Downtown at 1426 1st Avenue A favorite place for visiting bands to play when stopping in Seattle, Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Legendary Pink Dots, VNV Nation, and Skinny Puppy all recently played the Showbox. This venue showcases four full bars, a professional stage, state of the art sound and lighting systems, an expansive oak dance floor, intimate booth and cocktail seating, and a fully-equipped kitchen. Of course, the Showbox will bring back fond memories to C6 attendees as the location to what was one of the most memorable nights in Convergence history. Neumo's / Bad Juju Lounge @ Neumo's Capacity: 800, all ages possible Location: Capitol Hill at 925 East Pike Street Once called Moe's, a Seattle landmark that welcomes acts from Rasputina to Radiohead, Neumo's reopened after a complete floor to ceiling renovation. With crimson walls, entertaining murals, balcony seating, and not a bad sightline in the house, Neumo's is an excellent middle ground venue for Convergence 13. The Premier http://www.concerteventcenters.com/directions/ Capacity 1500, all ages possible Location: Downtown/Sodo at 1700 1st Ave South The newest venue to open in Seattle, the Sisters of Mercy played here when they recently visited. With two full bars, a professional stage, state of the art sound and lighting systems, and a fully equipped kitchen, the Premier offers many possibilities for C13 events. Mercury Capacity: 200 indoors, 400 with outside seating http://www.vrseattle.com/pages/vrview.php?cat_id=166&vrs_id=vrs176 http://www.vrseattle.com/pages/vrview.php?cat_id=166&vrs_id=vrs177 Location: 1009 E Union St, Capitol Hill There's not a sign , so don't look for one. Yes, it is located in an alley under a parking garage. And yes, the club usually requires membership or accompaniment by a member. With that said the Mercury (once the beloved Machine Werks) is Seattle's favorite gothic industrial club. From classic 80's goth to the latest dark noise, Mercury provides a variety of nights for every flavor of goth and rivethead. The Vogue Capacity: 200 Location: 1516 11th Ave, Capitol Hill The grand dame of the local scene; the Vogue is one of the oldest clubs in Seattle. Once a venue that hosted a young Nirvana and Soundgarden, today you will find Voltaire, The Cruxshadows and Combicrist on its stage. Also home to the longest running gothic night and our cities most popular weekly fetish night. Noc Noc Capacity: 200 http://www.vrseattle.com/pages/vrview.php?cat_id=315&vrs_id=vrs860 http://www.vrseattle.com/pages/vrview.php?cat_id=315&vrs_id=vrs861 Location: 1516 2nd Ave, Downtown Noc Noc is a relative newcomer to the Seattle gothic industrial scene. With its downtown location, exposed brick walls, recently added hardwood dance floor, and excellent sound system; Noc' has found a soft spot in our dark hearts. Events / By DayNote: Due to the nature of the Convergence bidding process, venue reservations, specific scheduling, and availability of events and venues cannot be confirmed until after C13 voting results are announced; therefore the following should be considered preliminary information and subject to change. Should you honor Seattle with the privilege of hosting Convergence 13, we'll also, of course, be asking for your suggestions, comments, and input. Here are just a few of the ideas we've got in store: ThursdayEarly Arrivals Event Check-In / Information Center Getting in early and you NEED your badge and goodie bag or all is lost? C13 staff will be onsite to assist and answer questions. Optional pre-C13 activitiesShowing up early to C13? Join a local SeaGoth guide on an optional daytime outing while you're in town. Thursday and Monday activities are completely optional, and while we will of course make every effort to obtain group discounts for C13 attendees, paid-admission attractions will not be covered by your C13 laminate. Underground TourIn 1889, the main business district of Old Seattle burned to the ground in the Great Seattle Fire. During the reconstruction, the City ordered the street levels raised as much as 32 feet above the original street level, literally creating a "Seattle Underground" of what were once first- and second-floor businesses. In 1907, a bubonic plague prompted the underground portion of Seattle to be condemned. Only illegitimate business was still conducted there, including a flourishing liquor trade during Prohibition. Descend below Seattle's modern-day Pioneer Square for a trip back through time, to the turn of the century. Be prepared for the underground landscape to be moderately rugged: you'll encounter six flights of stairs, uneven terrain and spotty lighting. Dress for the weather--and leave your spike heel shoes at the hotel! For those of you who attended C6 in Seattle, the Underground Tour recently added a new 'adults only' tour that delves deeper into Seattle's rich history of prostitution and opium trade. Oh my! Saucy! Guided Shopping TripIn case you didn't bring anything to wear to C13, or want some new music to listen to on your black iPod, join our native fashionistas for a guided tour of our favorite goth-friendly shops, count your loot at one of Seattle's many coffee haunts, then shop some more! ConfessionalJoin your esteemed host, Monsignor, for a special "pre-func" evening of cocktails, net.goth reunions, and music. Seattle's once-monthly Confessional boasts an unprecedented evening of people watching and outfit coveting. FridayEvent Check-In / Information CenterMeet and Greet / Reception / Opening Ceremony / WelcomeYou've got your goodie bag and badge. Now what? Why, mill around and find people to talk to, of course! Stop your gibber-jabbering long enough to agree on where you're grabbing some dinner (please!), get all gussied up and then hop on a shuttle, grab a short cab or bus ride, or walk up the hill to... Promenade de VaudevillesLadies and gentlemen, darklings of all ages, stroll our Haunted Boardwalk for an evening of sights and sounds that will thrill, amaze, and delight your black little hearts. See! Hilarious and daring Vaudeville acts, tantalizing burlesque performers, and uncanny sideshow thrills. Hear! A magical menagerie of musical diversions on multiple stages. Hear! A cavalcade of gothic and industrial DJs performing a non-stop musical revue of the darkest, most exotic sounds from the four corners of the world. Your C13 laminate is your all-access ticket for a fast-paced 'club crawl' circuit including multiple venues within a few-block radius, including 21+, mixed-ages, and all-ages venues. Downed a few too many of those cure-all libations at the Medicine Show? Soak up some of that alcohol with carbohydrate-laden carnival treats from our street vendors along the route! Vaudeville NoirTurn-of-the-century Vaudeville gets an unmistakably Gothic twist, with an extended evening of shorter sets from up-and-coming and regional bands and a variety of entertainers between sets. Revel in the sights from the theatre floor, or the all-ages balcony...or venture into the fortune-teller's lounge to have your future read by Madame Mystère - if you dare. Dr. Caligari's ApothecaryA separate club-with-a-club, duck into Dr. Caligari's Apothecary to soothe your ailments with magical elixirs from his infamous liquor Cabinet, and soothe your ears with a coven of DJs to transport you to a bygone era with a phantasmagoria of ethereal and old-school Goth rock. Lost Souls CabaretDecadence prevails at Lost Souls Cabaret, where a seductive cast of DJs and musical performances arouse the imagination and the senses. Wilkommen, bienvenue, welcome in cabaret, au cabaret, to cabaret! The FunhouseWe haven't forgotten our beloved babybats! In addition to the mixed-ages action at Vaudeville Noir, there's still more to see at this all-ages haunt, themed after classic "Darkride" carnival attractions. The Opium DenStep behind the curtains for a strong drink, and experience the exotic mysteries of the Far East, as an all-night marathon of DJs keep the music going until well after last call. SaturdayEmporium of OddmentsA Convergence tradition, the Vendor's Room returns in style for C13. Ménagerie d'ArtArtists' gallery and silent auction. Panels, Forums, and WorkshopsPossible Subjects Include: The Future of Goth Model-Photographer MeetupGrab your portfolio and head down to the Model-Photographer Meetup to schedule an indoor shoot, or book a spot for our Victorian-themed outdoor shoot at... A Day In The ParkGrab your hat, your parasol, or your 45 SPF for a Victorian-era afternoon in the park. Enter the Croquet Tournament, climb the Tower for a 360-degree view of Seattle, take part in an outdoor photo shoot, join a local Seattle Goth for a guided tour of the turn-of-the-century cemetery, visit the Conservatory for a look at the infamous Amorphophallus Titanum, or "Corpse Flower", or tour the Asian Art Museum. Note: Asian Art Museum admission is $5 for adults, or free with ticket to downtown's Seattle Art Museum. Cirque Macabre and Side Show LoungeAn evening of feats both daring and unique, witness death-defying acts of apparent incredibility! Join C13's 'big tent' bands, featured DJs, and amazing live Cirque performers in the main hall, or slip into the 21+ Side Show Lounge for a much-needed libation, in this mixed-ages event. SundayEmporium of OddmentsA Convergence tradition, the Vendor's Room returns in style for C13. Panels, Forums, and WorkshopsPossible Subjects Include: The Future of Goth AGF Clothing SwapKeeping it in the Family! A staple of the Convergence experience, the clothing swap allows you to purge that black hole you call a closet and fill it back up again with things you were sure your life was ashes without. That black brocade frock coat you bought in London and never wore? It really belongs with a nice lady from Lawrence, KS, so you should bring it to her. Then she'll hand over that shirt from Shrine that was discontinued 5 years ago you've been scouring eBay for. Bats on the MidwayJoin us as a black-clad horde descends on Seattle Center's "Fun Forest", for traditional carnival-style games, rides, bumper cars, a 25 foot climbing wall, miniature golf, and positively stratospheric blood-sugar levels to prepare you for Sunday night. Admission is free, but you'll have to pay for your own rides, food, and games. Guided tour of Experience Music Project at Seattle CenterThe architectural "sideshow freak" of Seattle, Frank Gehry's lumpy, multicolored landmark of modern design may blind Goths acclimated to a somewhat darker aesthetic, but inside, you'll find 140,000 square feet of historical rock 'n' roll memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and activities, courtesy of our local eccentric billionaire, Paul Allen. Admission to this optional event is a tad pricey (around $20), but well worth it for the truly obsessed music-history connoisseur. Madame Maudlin's Tea ShopWalking around, in the sun no less, isn't your...wait for it...cup of tea? Pull back the veil between our world and the next and see your future in the tealeaves. Join Madame Maudlin at one of the many historic establishments serving traditional Victorian High Tea. Your C13 staff will work with the aforementioned historical establishments to provide full service High Tea at an affordable ticket price (between $25-30). Teatro ZinZanniA quick jaunt from Seattle Center, Teatro ZinZanni is a big night out unlike any other, a three-hour whirlwind of cirque, comedy and cabaret all served up with a five-course feast designed by celebrated Northwest chef Tom Douglas. While full-price tickets for this optional activity are by no means cheap ($99 plus gratuity at the time of writing), discounted group-rate tickets, which the C13 staff would arrange, are available for groups over 20 (up to a maximum capacity of 285), and include a five-course gourmet dinner and a three-hour show you won't soon forget. For those looking to add that extra touch to their C13 experience, we feel it's well worth the price of admission. ElderGoths' Salon au VinReunite with an old friend or make a new one as you reminisce in The Gallery, A Northwest Wine Bar. Savor over 160 premium Northwest wines offered by the glass or bottle, enhanced by an extensive offering of northwest cheese, fruit and delectable Dilettante Chocolates. The perfect place to see and be seen! House of Mirrors: an Alt.Gothic.Fashion ShowShe made up the person she wanted to be, and changed into a new personality. Even the greatest stars change themselves in the looking glass... Carnival of Souls Costume BallPut on your best sinister Ringmaster, saucy Burlesque, demented Cirque, dashing Vaudeville, or spooky Sideshow Freak outfit, or just come as you are, to our abandoned, and quite possibly haunted theme park, Carnival of Souls, as our third evening of incomparable bands and DJs keep you dancing well into the night. Stick around for the official Closing Ceremonies, where prizes will be awarded for the finest and most outrageous outfits, C14 voting results will be announced, and we'll offer our quick but heartfelt thanks for joining us to make C13 a convergence for the ages, before turning the sound system back over to our C13 DJs at this mixed-ages finale. MondayCheck OutOptional post-C13 activitiesIf you're still in town and aren't suffering from complete sensory overload yet, join a local SeaGoth guide on an optional daytime outing. Thursday and Monday activities are completely optional, and while we will of course make every effort to obtain group discounts for C13 attendees, paid-admission attractions will not be covered by your C13 laminate. The Carnival Is Over: Post-C13 Official Unofficial Hangover BrunchThe fabulous freaks are leaving town. They are driven by a strange desire, unseen by the human eye. The carnival is over. We sat and watched, as the moon rose again for the very first time. Underground TourIn 1889, the main business district of Old Seattle burned to the ground in the Great Seattle Fire. During the reconstruction, the City ordered the street levels raised as much as 32 feet above the original street level, literally creating a "Seattle Underground" of what were once first- and second-floor businesses. In 1907, a bubonic plague prompted the underground portion of Seattle to be condemned. Only illegitimate business was still conducted there, including a flourishing liquor trade during Prohibition. Descend below Seattle's modern-day Pioneer Square for a trip back through time, to the turn of the century. Be prepared for the underground landscape to be moderately rugged: you'll encounter six flights of stairs, uneven terrain and spotty lighting. Dress for the weather--and leave your spike heel shoes at the hotel! For those of you who attended C6 in Seattle, the Underground Tour recently added a new 'adults only' tour that delves deeper into Seattle's rich history of prostitution and opium trade. Oh my! Saucy! Guided Shopping TripJoin our native fashionistas for a guided tour of our favorite goth-friendly shops, count your loot at one of Seattle's many coffee haunts, then shop some more! Surely there's a bit of extra room in your suitcase. Other Events Around SeattleSeattle's Gothic and Industrial NightsMONDAY Mercury, 1st Monday Vogue TUESDAY Mercury Noc Noc WEDNESDAY Vogue THURSDAY Mercury, 1st Thursday Mercury, 2nd Thursday Mercury, 3rd Thursday Mercury, 4th Thursday Vogue, last Thursday of the month FRIDAY Mercury Vogue SATURDAY Mercury Noc Noc Vogue SUNDAY Mercury Vogue Noc Noc Attractions in and Around SeattlePIKE PLACE MARKET WATERFRONT SEATTLE AQUARIUM PIONEER SQUARE WOODLAND PARK ZOO SEATTLE ART MUSEUM PACIFIC SCIENCE CENTER SEATTLE CENTER EXPERIENCE MUSIC PROJECT DOWNTOWN SHOPPING TransportationGetting Here - By AirThe following price quotes are for round-trip, economy fares if booked on April 1st for travel May 25-29 2006. Please plan on 6-10% increase in fare for 2007. Atlanta / $325 Austin / $265 Boston / $225 Chicago / $236 Columbus / $225 Denver / $236 Detroit / $254 Honolulu / $446 Las Vegas / $204 Los Angeles / $198 Nashville / $246 NYC/Newark / $238 New Orleans / $218 Phoenix / $224 Salt Lake City / $184 San Francisco / $178 Tampa / $218 Toronto / $435 Washington DC / $217 Airport shuttles and taxi service to the downtown hotel district is available 24 hours a day. Shuttle rates run between $8US and $12US per person, each way, depending on carrier and whether you have a reservation, and taxis run about $30US (not including gratuity) for up to four passengers. There is an express bus from the airport to downtown every 30 minutes for $2, however, this is not available 24 hours a day and there is only one stop at the airport. Getting Here - By Water:Seattle is accessible year round for residents of Vancouver Island, Canada on the passenger ferry, the Victoria Clipper or car ferries in to Port Angeles, WA and Anacortes, WA. Getting Here - By LandCarSeattle is served by two major interstate highways. The I-5 goes south to Portland, OR and San Francisco, CA and north to the Canadian border and Vancouver, BC. The I-90 links Seattle with central and eastern Washington State. Approximate driving times to Seattle: From Portland - 3 hours; Vancouver, Canada - 3 hours; Spokane - 6 hours. Greyhound CoachGreyhound operates from the Greyhound Bus Station. The facilities are minimal but include 24-hour ticketing, left-luggage and a snack bar. TrainSeattle is on the main Amtrak network and operates out of the King Street Station, located in the historic Pioneer Square district. The recommended route is the Cascades, which features a restaurant car and televisions on the route. The Cascades runs parallel with the I-5 corridor from Vancouver, BC to Eugene, OR and all points in between. Getting Around Within Seattle Public Transportation Seattle has an excellent bus system operated by King County Metro Transit with wheelchair and bicycle lifts and drivers trained to announce significant stops and help with directions. Free transit buses run through the downtown business and retail core. Buses operate every 10 to 20 minutes (less between midnight and 4:00 am). Tickets are $1.25 or $1.50, depending on distance of trip and time of day. Day passes are available for $2 on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. TaxisTaxis can be hailed from designated locations in front of hotels. A tip of 10-15% is expected. Seattle taxi drivers are almost always polite and reliable, although one can expect to wait up to 10 minutes for a cab. Cost for two passengers is $2.50 at 'flag drop', plus $2.00 per mile thereafter and $0.50 per extra passenger. Currently Seattle has a $1 per trip fuel surcharge we hope will be lifted by 2007. Driving in SeattleC13 will be planned in a way that encourages walking, shuttles, public transportation, or short cab rides as the recommended forms of transportation. However, for those of you who will have cars the city is fairly easy for newcomers to navigate based on a simple grid system; numbered roads are north-south avenues and named roads are east-west streets. Visitors should be aware parking could get expensive downtown. If you wish to use 'in and out privileges' to drive your car to events while here it is best to utilize the hotel's parking service. All major rental car companies are available for vehicle rental both downtown and at the airport. Your Convergence 13 Seattle Committee and StaffAffectionately known as "The People Who Seem to be Allergic to Free Time", different combinations of the C13 Seattle Committee and Staff promote and host several weekly and monthly Gothic and Industrial club nights, present and organize Gothic fashion shows, officiate and produce most community weddings, bring international bands to Seattle, and organize genre-specific art shows. Comprised of a group of individuals with a long history of working together producing, hosting and promoting successful community events, the C13 Seattle Committee and Staff have been carefully chosen based on each individual's areas of professional expertise. For the C13 Seattle Committee and Staff members, their roles in hosting C13 would mirror their professional lives to help make a Convergence gathering in Seattle unforgettable once again. Alexia Roy / AlexiarnpsChair, Chief Cat HerderAlexia made her first black dress, on her grandmother's sewing machine, at age eight. At eleven, she cried when she found out she was too young to get into an Adam Ant concert. By age fourteen, clad in riding boots, vintage frock, and topcoat, Alexia was listening to Cocteau Twins, Dead Can Dance, and Legendary Pink Dots, when, to her surprise, someone called her a Goth. She's never looked back since - except to make sure her bustle is on straight. Although she still gets rankled every time someone asks if her given name is a made-up "Goth name", she does carry calling cards inscribed "Professional Diva". Alexia's day-job resume includes a few two-dollar words like "artists' liaison", "special events coordinator " and "personal assistant to the CEO of a major publisher." Currently a regional operations manager for a medical company that manufactures and maintains human bionic implant devices (yes, it's exactly as cool as it sounds), her job description includes "maintaining cadaver levels" and she wouldn't have it any other way. After spending her formative starving-student years in Portland's Goth scene of the early 1990's, hosting house parties in lieu of a regular club night to go to, she moved to Seattle in time to harbor nostalgia for the original downtown Machinewerks and Vogue locations. She currently moonlights as moderator chair for the Seattle Gothic message board, producer, entertainment booker, and promoter of Seattle's reoccurring "Gothique" fashion show events, and occasional guest panelist on "Goth" and "costuming" related topics at cons that are, of course, nowhere near as cool as Convergence. She's also become something of a 'go-to girl' whenever Seattle's crisp, Northwest air inspires yet another couple to plan a Goth-friendly wedding. With a scant four weeks to plan her own wedding, and a tight budget after spending too much on the hotel at C7, a 'quiet, simple ceremony' quickly turned into 'let's throw a party'. Arriving in a hearse to a reception opened as a no-cover club night and concert to the public with catered goodies, goth/industrial rock bands, guest DJs, and a crowd of 750 guests - complete with radio promotion, a documentary-series TV crew, and perhaps most importantly, a Dias de los Muertos bride and groom on the cake. Alexia has three black cats, three pet toads, and one very understanding husband. Erica Jantos / VomvamuseCo-Chair, Hotels, Hospitality, Facilities, On-Site EventsA proud New Jersey native, Erica grew up among classic architecture and rolling hills - the 'garden' part of the Garden State. She frequented the local music venues as well as the clubs of Philadelphia and New York until she relocated to the Pacific Northwest in 1996. She was a committee member of her first convergence, C6 in Seattle. She looks forward to the revelry that will be C12 New Orleans, partook in the event that was C9 Las Vegas (baby!), and would like to forget that she even tried to help with C7. A 15-year corporate goth in the hospitality industry, Erica is currently a catering sales manager at an exclusive private club in downtown Seattle. When she is not making each party 'perfect' you will find her either record flipping for that one import, dining out somewhere, or rating the night's DJ at a local club, rarely without a confidante in tow. Jillian Venters / The Lady of the MannersCo-Chair, Daytime Outings, Voice of ReasonA C6 committee veteran, the Lady of the Manners makes no claims of having always been Gothic; the Lady of the Manners firmly believes that no one can really claim that, and anyone who does might be trying a touch too hard to establish their gothy credibility. However, the Lady of the Manners was a fairly spooky and morbid child, with parents who never objected to the Lady of the Manners' eccentric taste in clothing. (Instead, the Lady of the Manners' parents used it as an incentive to do well in school: "If you get straight A's, we'll buy you pointy buckle boots!") The Lady of the Manners' father raised her to be his revenge upon the Universe, while her mother rolled her eyes a lot and frequently had an air of amused patience. When the Lady of the Manners discovered the existence of the whole Gothic subculture, she clapped her hands with glee and fell upon it like a babybat upon a box of Count Chocula cereal. Eventually the Lady of the Manners came to realize that excellent clothes were not, contrary to popular opinion, a substitute for excellent manners, and that being a Black-Clad-Freak didn't have to mean being depressed and snarly. (Witty, sarcastic, and possibly a touch cynical, yes. Mean-spirited, sullen, and rude, no.) Since then, the Lady of the Manners has spent a not-inconsiderable amount of time trying to gently persuade others in her chosen subculture that being a goth and being polite is much, much more subversive than just wearing black t-shirts with 'edgy' sayings on them. Mike Wimer / Noxious Emotion, MusicWerks, ADSRCo-Chair, Music Booking, Talent LiaisonBeginning with his own bands, and then as concert promoter, label owner, and record store owner, Mike's dedication has made him an irreplaceable fixture of the Gothic / Industrial music scene in Seattle since the late 1980's. His independent record label, ADSR, has been responsible for releases from his own Mental Ward and Noxious Emotion, along with SMP, Ninth Circle, ThouShaltNot, OMNIbOX, GLIS, And Christ Wept, Static Engine, and Tau Factor. As a booker and concert promoter with MusicWerks, he's been responsible for bringing a steady stream of national and international acts to Seattle, and years of experience booking shows across the United States and Europe, Japan, and the former Soviet Union. Mike's treated West Coast audiences to performances from Assemblage 23, Covenant, And One, OHGR, Hate Dept., Front 242, Echo & the Bunnymen, Faith and the Muse, Collide, Snog, Black Tape for a Blue Girl, Attrition, Moev, Cruxshadows, Bella Morte, VNV Nation, Icon of Coil, Apoptygma Berzerk, Beborn Beton, KMFDM, 16 Volt, Kidney Thieves, Slick Idiot, Seabound, Stromkern, Mors Syphilitica, Death in June, Haujobb, Hocico, Babyland, Voltaire, Melotron, Noisex, Funker Vogt, Hanzel Und Gretyl, Delerium, Wolfsheim, Imperative Reaction, Imminent Starvation, Hungry Lucy, Combichrist, Gene Loves Jezebel, Written In Ashes, Android Lust, Marina Sirtis...and many, many more, earning a well-deserved and long-standing reputation for treating not only concertgoers well, but the bands he brings in, topped with his trademark warm, humble smile and sense of humor. When the original location of Mike's MusicWerks record store - one of far too few 'goth-industrial only' brick-and-mortar record stores in the country - fell victim to an unfortunate electrical fire in 2003, regional bands quickly came together to show their support, putting on the now-infamous "Fire Festival" marathon benefit concert, including a literal "fire sale" of smoke-damaged CD's. Musicwerks' new Pine Street store is within walking distance of the proposed hotel(s) and Capitol Hill event locations. MonsignorPre Function and Post Function HostA Seattle native, true Gothic Elder and active community member, our own martini-soaked fallen Holy Man has provided countless services over the years, including producing the highly successful monthly evening known as 'Confessional' and hosting dozens of events and club nights in additional to marrying a good number of us, er, to each other, I mean! The first person to arrive, the last person to leave, and always with a smile, Monsignor is the absolute 'Host with the Most' harkening back to the golden days of the immaculately executed soirée. Robert Tritthardt / DJ Sprockets, Uber ComicsDJ Coordinator, Comics Artists CoordinatorRobert was raised in the nothingness of the midwest. For many years he was lost, until he heard Tones On Tail's 'Burning Skies' while attending art school. In only ten years, he has deejayed at many clubs across the country (and a few places overseas) and has become internationally recognized for his gothic comic Writhe and Shine. He helped organize C5 in New Orleans, and subsequently attended C6, C9, C10 and C12. Robert moved to Seattle in 2005 where he hopes to accomplish a hell of a lot more, but if some Wookies dropped by and asked him to come along for an adventure, he'd totally go. Katie Mineke / Mineke, Dark IndustryFashion Events CoordinatorKatie Mineke is a native Washingtonian. Sewing since childhood, she followed her dream of becoming a fashion designer and obtained her degree from the Art Institute of Seattle's Fashion Design program a short eighteen months after graduating from high school. She uses her lifetime of skills and her trusty schooling for her current venture, Dark Industry Clothing. She's been a very active participant in Seattle's gothic/industrial scene since before she was old enough to attend clubs, volunteering and being called upon for many fashion-related projects. She continues to put out line after line, at her own expense, to be shown in the local fashion shows and to inspire others to dress to impress. Her day life is also spent in the fashion industry, working as a materials coordinator and product developer for Columbia Sportwear (the brand new owner of the Pacific Trail and affiliated brands). So she basically eats, sleeps, drinks, and breathes fashion every single day of her life, and she loves it. Plain and simple: she loves making clothes, and especially loves making clothes for this genre. In no other group of people would a period gown made out of shiny vinyl be not only accepted, but lusted after; where the color black is seen as a form of self-expression, where a lifestyle of decadence is revered. She's come to find that the highest standards of fashion and beauty are right here, in this scene, and feels so grateful to be a part of it. http://www.darkindustryclothing.com Jim Graham / TwelfthNightProduction Management, Venue Coordinator, Technical DirectorWith an extensive career in the event and concert industry, Jim hit the road at the age of eighteen when he started working as a roadie for many local, national, and international acts. After twenty years spent on the road running front of house, managing road crews, and, much to the delight of his friends, having embarrassing pictures of himself in Spandex leggings resurface years later in Motley Crue tell-all biographies, he retired back to Seattle to set up his own production company, Jim Graham Productions. Jim Graham Productions has gone on to produce events for such clients as Microsoft, Apple, Nordstroms, Tabor 100, and many other national corporations. Jim also works as a freelance production manager and technical director for many other local and national production companies, providing them with his talents and skills, but still manages to show up at the club for a round of Jameson's every weekend. Colleen Smet-Mathis / LeeNy, LeenerellaWebmaster, I.T., Non-Musical Performances Consultant, Fire Safety AdvisorBorn and raised in Washington, Colleen became an AZgoth in 1998, and returned to Seattle just in time to volunteer for Convergence 6. She is the webmaster for www.gothic-charm-school.com, and www.granolagoth.com, along with her day job as a webmaster at University of Washington, and has also served as a moderator on the Seattle Gothic message board. Colleen has a background and education in theatre, and has volunteered to help with many local theme events, organized SeaGoth beach burns and produced, directed, and performed in fire shows throughout Washington state. As her Granola Goth credits suggest, she's an avid outdoor enthusiast. She is working on a theme camp for her fourth year at Burning Man, and loves firedancing, bellydancing, and yoga. She is married to a tall, dark, and handsome stagehand, and they live on Capitol Hill with their two cats, Dib and Gaz. Chris Roy / Chrisrnps, Dollfactory, NPS-MediaCo-Webmaster, Printed Materials, PromoPicking up the violin in fourth grade, and later moving to guitar and keyboards, Chris earned his first Goth points clearing the audience at a high-school talent show with feedback-drenched covers of Killing An Arab and Dark Entries. Playing in Oregon and Washington with his early bands Crown of Thorns and Guernica throughout high school and college, Chris moved to Seattle in 1993, and has worked as a graphic designer, multimedia programmer, sound and lighting technician, stagehand, music store sales manager, audio post engineer for the film and video industries, and technical support administrator for live sound and recording studio equipment manufacturers, which one would think might exempt him from getting stuck with a nickname like "The Foppiest Fop in all of Fopdom", but after putting on a frock coat and downing a few Sapphire-and-tonics, he really doesn't have a leg to stand on. Currently at work on upcoming CDs from SMP and his current band, Doll Factory, Chris' favorite memory from previous Convergences was the unofficial "C7 Rescue Committee" night at the Limelight. FAQQ: What are the dates? A: If we have the honor of hosting Convergence 13 we propose Memorial Day Weekend, May 25-27, 2007. This weekend has already been proven to Convergence goers since C6 was also held over this holiday weekend. With great weather, low hotel rates and favorable airfares it is the perfect weekend to visit our city. Q Is this going to conflict with Whitby Gothic Weekend or any other Festivals? A: We have purposefully chosen a weekend where C13 would not conflict with any scheduled local or national events or conventions. Q: HEY! Didn't Seattle host a Convergence before? A: Yes, as did Chicago and New Orleans. Seattle had the honor of hosting Convergence VI in 2000. Q: Is it too soon for Seattle to bid again? A: Was it too soon for Chicago or New Orleans? Seven years is ages in any Goth scene. Soon after C6 our scene went through a period of growth and evolution. Today in Seattle we enjoy solid, active, yet laid-back and approachable community, with superior shopping, and gothic or industrial club nights 7 nights a week. We feel it is time again to share all that we call the Seattle Gothic Scene with Convergence attendees. Q: What happened to those C6 Organizers? Are they helping with this Bid? A: Co-Chairs Jillian Venters and Erica Jantos were both Co-Chairs of the C6 committee, from creating the bid to PFM commenting on Jillian's hat. Q: So, I hear it rains A LOT in Seattle? A: Yes, we have more then a few days of measurable rain; however at 37 inches per year, it's less than Miami (56 inches), New York (42), Atlanta (51) Boston (41), and Portland (38) to mention only a few. Not that we're defensive... Q: What about the theme? A: "Come one, come all", as they say. We've deliberately selected a theme that allows us to have some extra fun decorating, entertaining, and dazzling C13 attendees, while giving you the option of going all-out and dressing for the theme, or doing your own thing - when the theme involves a dark-tinged carnival and traveling sideshow, there's nothing to keep you from being whatever kinda 'freak' floats your proverbial boat. Our concept is very specific, but your interpretation of it doesn't have to be. Q: What hotel will we be using? A: With the possibility of hosting Convergence for a second time, the Seattle bid committee is in a comfortable position where we have a multiple hotels that are aggressively pursuing our event. For more information on these hotels that we are negotiating with please review our accommodations section. Q: Are there other options beyond the host hotel? A: As any other major city; there are accommodations to be found for any budget. From Hostels to AAA five diamond hotels you will be able to find a place to rest your head that is right for you. Q: Where will the nighttime events be held? A: Further proof that the music scene has grown in Seattle, for C6 we had one venue that held 800+, now we have THREE unique renovated venues we're considering for Convergence 13 if Seattle is chosen. Again, with Convergence a proven and successful event in Seattle these venues are eager to work with us again. Q: How much will a ticket be? A: We have created a budget based on selling tickets at $65US per person. Q: I'm not 21 yet, what about me? A: We plan to have all main evening events open to attendees 18+. Q: Can I smoke? A: As in many other major cities, Seattle has recently passed an initiative barring smoking in places such as bars, restaurants, and clubs. If you smoke, plan on smoking outside where you will truly enjoy our fine May weather. Q: Am I going to need a car to get around? A: No, not if you are planning to stay downtown. While there are wonderful places to outside of the city, Seattle's public transportation is frequent and convenient. We still have the free ride zone in downtown, once outside of the zone your ride will only be 1.25-1.50. Public transportation from the Seattle Tacoma Airport is within 3 blocks or any of the hotels under consideration is 1.50 each way. Direct shuttle services run from $8-12US each way. A taxi runs $30US plus gratuity each way and will allow up to 4 passengers per car. For more detailed transportation information please see the transportation section. Q: Is Seattle dangerous? A: While Seattle is the 4th largest city on the west coast, it surely does not feel like it. Seattle is a safe city with a low crime rate. It is common to see Seattle Police Department officers on car, foot, bicycle and even horseback around town and in the downtown area. Being Seattleites, they are very freak friendly. Q: When will you be taking DJ and band submissions? A: Now, don't you think that it is just a bit early to ask that question? Q: Will Peter Murphy return for C13? A: C6 will forever go down in history as that Convergence that had PFM. It was a truly magical night, a memory that we do not wish to ruin by trying to recreate. We will not promise him or any other performer of his caliber for our event. Q: How do I contact the Seattle Bid Committee? A: You're encouraged to post general questions to the alt.gothic and alt.gothic.convergence newsgroups, or direct emails to: c13seattle[at]comcast.net Q: How can I help support Convergence XII? A: Please feel free to contact the Committee at c13seattle[at]comcast.net Q: Can I have a pony? A: Yes. But you have to use your own allowance. |