The Asylum VII
2015
Official Programme
INFORMATION! Entries for the Great Exhibition should be submitted to the Assembly Rooms between 10am and 11am Saturday morning. Registration for the Costume Parade should be submitted in writing to the Assembly Rooms before 12 noon on Saturday. Last minute registration for Tea Duelling is open at the Assembly Rooms before 11.30am Saturday. Do not attempt to feed the dragon.
WEEKEND AT THE ASYLUM VII, 2015 Seven years ago our toils in the lab were reaching fruition. Long hours of labour gathering resources, preparing the parts, stitching them together and laying them out ready meant that when we threw the switch it lived! Weekend at the Asylum was born and had a life of its own. People had travelled great distances to be part of this creature. It certainly looked like we had created a monster beyond our understanding yet even so we have persisted. 2015 and the good news is the locals are not running us out of town with pitchforks and flaming torches (although that would make a tremendous evening feature perhaps next year). Indeed the level of support we are getting from Lincoln grows year on year just as the event itself grows. This year we are a whole day longer, have more space overall and many more features. The monster not only lives it thrives. Who knows what it will become. Thank you for your support of the event. Without you buying your wristbands there would be no Weekend at the Asylum. You make it possible. We are just the mad scientists toiling in the lab... Welcome to the Asylum. Unleash the steampunk! John, Karen, Jim, Jo, Trevor, Jackie, Malika and Keith (The VSS)
DRESS AND ETIQUETTE DRESS CODE : However people dress it is important that ALL are made to feel welcome. Steampunk is a friendly and sociable community. We do not sneer at, criticise nor ridicule people for how they dress. There are no strict rules nor arbiters for what is and isn’t steampunk. Obviously outfits need to be considered acceptable on the streets and not offensive in any way. We appreciate that some people have been worrying a little about what to wear over the weekend. Firstly let us say this is an inclusive event and we want people to have a good time and feel comfortable so no minimum dress code will be rigidly enforced. We would suggest that people do try to be as steampunk as they feel happy with however since “normal” may feel distinctly out of place. Friday night is a chance to be distinctly steampunk in a relaxed everyday way. Of course some of us will take this opportunity to dress to impress. This is after all an opportunity to spend the weekend being as flamboyant as you want. Friday night is a good time to wear something you are very comfortable with but also something which makes it clear you belong. This could be just a waistcoat and hat or could be an entire ensemble with a range of accessories and add ons. Saturday daytime also has the costume parade and competition. You will be wandering around stalls and exhibits and attending features but you may want to be dressed ready for the “catwalk” in the afternoon. Saturday is for the clothes you think are your most creative and impressive. Saturday night is similar to Friday unless you are attending the Empire Ball. This is a formal event rather than a fancy dress event. Please try to dress to impress with your taste and style.
Whatever people choose to wear they will be made to feel welcome. This is our space and our time. The event will be what we choose to make it. If someone only has one outfit for the whole weekend, that is no problem at all. Many people have however taken it as an opportunity to be creative in their attire (as you may well expect). If someone is new to steampunk and only has regular street clothes this is not a problem at all. (Jeans and t shirts are usually very noticeable in their absence however.) If you are not going to dress “steampunk” may we gently suggest that Friday night and Saturday day you wear whatever you would do normally and for the Ball, think of it as if you were invited to an eccentric cousin’s wedding. WEAPONS: We accept and recognise that weaponry is an integral part of the steampunk genre and are delighted to be able to see your accessories. Please note however that we do not condone, encourage or want you to break the law in any way, shape or form and advise you most strongly to ensure that you carry, wear and display any weaponry in an acceptable and safe way. We suggest that all weapons are transported to and from the event in a suitable bag, case or cover. When not in use we advise you to lock your weaponry in your car/accommodation etc. Please be aware that even replica weapons can cause alarm in a public place and take care to display them only when and where appropriate. We apologise but would ask that you do not wear large live role play/latex type weapons (e.g. swords and axes) as part of your outfit. You may be asked to return these to your vehicle/accommodation. This is due to access issues primarily. We ask that no weapons at all be brought to the Empire Ball. This is a social event and weaponry would be inappropriate. The best place for displaying weaponry is during the day on Saturday and we are happy to accept submissions of your steampunked items for the exhibition.
Any item for sale must meet UK legal requirements with regards to weapons and replica weapons. We particularly draw your attention to the law with regard to the sale of knives and the Violent Crime Reduction Act as it relates to replica and reproduction weapons and derivatives thereof. ETIQUETTE: The Steampunk Convivial is a place for civility and good manners. We will be delighted if people can remain polite and friendly at all times. This is particularly true of times when you are in public in Lincoln. We would like Lincoln to welcome us back in future years. Please be considerate of others living nearby when returning to your accommodation after the festivities. We reserve the right to eject participants from the event if we consider their behaviour to be inappropriate. Children (coglings) are welcome during the daytime. Please Note that as parents/guardians you are responsible for their conduct at all times. Children under the age of sixteen are not permitted to attend evening functions without individual advance consent from the organisers. We may be a little cramped at times. Please try and keep passageways and doorways etc… clear at all times. Please avoid standing in groups having conversations where you may block access and egress. We have the historic quarter of the city to play with, so please be considerate.
LOST CHILDREN Of course you do your best to keep on eye on the couplings but there is always the chance they can wander off or become separated from you. At event control we have some child safe wristbands for you to write your mobile phone number on. If you do miss lay your youngster then please feel free to telephone our event control team on 07762 700036. Why not take a picture of your child right now so we can see what they are wearing and look like if you send it through to us. Of course you will continue to look for your child and decide what else you need to do but we will radio all our staff to be on the look out for them too. If we find them and they have your number on their wristband and/or you have called us then we can get straight in touch with you and reunite you with them. Of course lost children who are not collected immediately will be given several espressos a toy trumpet and a puppy to bring home with them so help us to help you. THE VSS TELEPHONE We have a telephone at event control. This is for emergency contacts and problems only. Sorry we can't handle ticket enquiries or general information requests. These need to be done in person at event control. If you lose a child, need medical assistance etc then please don't hesitate to contact us. The phone will be covered during event control opening hours. If you are a trader, performer or contributor and you are having difficulties that may affect your participation in the event then please give us a call so we can inform the manager of the venue you are aiming to be at. If you cannot get an answer please DO NOT leave a voice message. Instead send us a text message to the same number. You will still need to go to your relevant venue or event control to be helped however. The event number is 07762 700036 EVENT CONTROL Event Control is Located in the area around the Roman Well at the junction of Westgate and Bailgate (opposite Greggs). The hours of operation are: Friday: 10am to 8pm Saturday: 9.30am to 5.30pm Sunday: 9.30am to 5.30pm Monday: 9.30am to 12 noon
FRIDAY 28 TH AUGUST At a glance. Time: Assembly Castle Westgate The Bazaar Rooms Electrica 11am Market in 12 noon Methodist 1pm Hall 2pm 3pm Mad Hatters 4pm Tea Party 5pm A Very Special Launch. 6pm 7pm Lady Elsie’s 8pm Fashion Opening to 11pm. Gala. Start Party. 7.30pm
FRIDAY 28 TH AUGUST In detail. The Assembly Rooms 3pm: The Mad Hatters Tea Party: The perfect event opener – tea, sandwiches and cakes in the splendour of the Assembly Rooms to make new friends and kick off Asylum 2015. The ideal feature for newcomers as well as regular Asylum goers. 5pm: A Very Special Launch: Still tightly under wraps the secret will be revealed here first. 7.30pm: Lady Elsie’s Fashion Gala: A glittering evening of fashion and entertainment in the sumptuous surroundings of the Assembly Rooms Ballroom. Westgate 8pm: Opening Night Party: Opening night at The Asylum and time to kick off with a bang. An evening of great music with Metropolis and Dark Design. Dancing and partying until late at Westgate Academy.
The Bazaar Electrica; Methodist Hall Bailgate. 11am to 5pm: Indoor Market: Traders include; Remnant Black, Angel Feather, C.J. Accessories, Dodo's Black Rainbow, Empires Ghosts, Juju Treats, Clockwork Tea Party, Ashgrey Millinery, Joan Evans Jackets, Time Chaser, Jacklyn Hyde, Ornamentology, Obzidianne, Beezeebee Decoupage, Sew Wonderland, Knicker Drawer Note Books, & Lilac Moon Designs.
SATURDAY 29 TH AUGUST At a glance. Time: Assembly Castle Westgate The Bazaar Rooms Electrica 10am Opening Castle opens. Rayguns in Market in Ceremony. Steampunk Methodist The Designers Fiction. Hall. are in The House Market In 11am Fie, Sir! Or Poetry & World Castle the Language Monologues building for grounds. of Fans by Big Al writers. Steam Market in Invaders. Castle Poacher Square. Morris. 12 noon Asylum VII Linzi Gold An Tea Duelling Meet and introduction Championship Merc. to the Steam Dystopian Western. Wars. Steampunk my Iphone/pad. Metropolis Meet and Merc. 1pm Poetry & Alice’s Night Poetry Slam Monologues Circus Meet with Thomas by Big Al. and Merc. and Nimue Songwriting The art of Brown. for distressing Songpunks and (Oval Room). weathering.
The Dark Design Meet and Merc. 2pm Stric tly Tommy Rott. Steampunk Steampunk Steampunk setting and Flower the Real arranging. World. Words and images a blissful union, or an unholy alliance. 3pm Mad Hatters Costume Alice’s Tea Party (II) Parade. Nightmare in Wonderland. 4pm Dos and Don’ts of Descriptive writing. 5pm A very special Launch II 6pm 7pm 8pm War Of The A night with Clockwork to 11pm. Worlds the Spirits. Underground. Dinner Lincoln Cathedral.
SATURDAY 29 TH AUGUST In detail. The Assembly Rooms Opening Times: 10am to 6pm. All day Exhibits in the Tennyson Suite: The Fantabulous Travelling Yarnbomb: Come along and learn about the crazy world of yarn bombing and maybe try a stitch or two. Daleks & Droids: Come along and meet Chris Droid and Dalek builder extraordinaire see some of his creations and get some advice to help with your own plans. The Great Exhibition: Today is the day for submissions to the exhibition but if you have not yet created something for it, come along and see what others have. Main Ballroom: 10am: Opening Ceremony: The official start to Asylum VII which for some started 2 days earlier 10.30am: The Designers are in The House: Come along and have some of your steampunk fashion questions answered by three designers. Whether it's where to get inspiration or more practical problems.
11.30am: Fie, Sir! Or the Language of Fans: Learn how to silently convey such sentiments as "You, Sir, are no Gentleman and I wish to be rid of you" and "I desire to learn more of your jetpack, but we are being watched." 12.30am: Asylum VII Tea Duelling Championship: Come along and see if you can become this year’s champion or simply enjoy watching others try the ultimate test of skill and nerve. Note, potential Contestants must pre register, see Rules (below) for details. 1.30pm: Poetry & Monologues by Big Al: Returning to the Asylum but this time in the main ball room to entertain and amuse even more people. 2pm: Strictly Steampunk I: 'Waltz Up Doc' – Learn the box step, turns and basic Viennese Waltz in preparation for the Ball 3.30pm: The Mad Hatters Tea Party (II): So popular we had to do it twice – tea, sandwiches and cakes in the splendour of the Assembly Rooms to make new friends. The ideal feature for newcomers as well as regular Asylum goers. 8pm: War Of The Worlds Dinner: The Martians have landed! Humanity gathers for a final glittering dinner at the Assembly Rooms as it awaits its doom. Oval Room: 1pm: Songwriting for Songpunks: Come along and listen to a prolific and internationally selling song writer about the craft that is song writing.
5pm: A Very Special Launch II: Find out what everybody is talking about. Westgate Starting 10am Till 5pm The Asylum Book and Game Fair. The main hall at Westgate plays host to a number of Steampunk related games including The Dystopian Wars, Great Scott! The Game of Mad Invention, All Quiet on the Martian Front, and two steampunked Roleplay games. There will also be a display of Steampunk miniatures and our first ever Scrap Table Challenge. For the book side of things, we give you the chance to meet and converse with Steampunk authors and publishers, including; Telos publishing, The Last Line, Robert Harkess, Steve Turnbull, Ceri Leigh Harper (and trusty bear), David Wake, Jonathan Green, Sam Stone and Raven Dane. And if that wasn’t enough we also have Confirmed intimate readings by Steve Turnbull (11am), Ceri Leigh Harper (noon), Robert Harkess (2pm) and Sam Stone (3pm). And then there are the programme features in the “Back Room”…
10am: Rayguns in Steampunk Fiction: Arkwright and Herr Doktor examine steampunk (and historical) rayguns without blowing themselves up. 11am: World building for writers: Raven Dane and Robert Harkess draw on their experience and expertise as writers to examine a subject close to many steampunk’s hearts – fictional world building.
12 noon: An introduction to the Dystopian Wars: The Dystopian Wars: It is the 1870′s, and war rages between the world’s great powers on a scale never before seen! Alex Pocklington takes a break from manoeuvring armies and fleets to explain the wars, the games and the miniatures. 1pm: Poetry Slam: Thomas and Nimue Brown Invite you to a steampunk poetry slam. 2pm: Steampunk setting and the Real World: Steve Turnbull explains how his steampunk setting came into existence, its various features, and how its history is similar to ours up until 1911… 3pm: Alice’s Nightmare in Wonderland: A nightmarish gamebook inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (to mark the 150th anniversary of its publication).Jonathan Green brings you up to date with his latest project. 4pm: Dos and Don’ts of Descriptive writing: Sam Stones returns to host a reprise of last year’s very successful writing workshop. This will also lead into the weekends writing competition, which will be judged on Monday morning. 8pm: Clockwork Underground: Interactive multi media project Clockwork Watch comes to the Asylum. Step into an altogether darker and seedier steampunk world at Westgate Academy with an immersive experience plus the very best of live music from The Men That Will Not Be Blamed For Nothing and Mysterious Freakshow.
The Castle Opening Times: 10am to 5pm All activities in the Castle are “weather permitting”. The Maker Marquee, Exhibition and Meet and Merch activities will all be under cover, however, all other activities are at the mercy of the Great British weather. We have made the best efforts we can to provide a full programme, but changes, substitutions and cancellations may be made due to weather, or non arrival or participants, 11am to 11.30am: Poems and monologues with Big Al. Venue: Stage. Something old, something new, something borrowed, something very pale blue. Sorry, but he’s not as pretty as Pam Ayres. 11am to 12 noon: Steam Invaders. Venue: Showground. Steam Invaders is a combat simulation scenario, using the cutting edge ACTUAL REALITY engine. (Shooting NERF guns at numpties in giant plastic heads) The denizens of Barsoom are revolting! Join the Royal Northern Airship Militia (RNAM) in beating off the Martian Hordes! Prove yourself worthy of joining the RNAM, using the cutting edge ACTUAL REALITY Combat Simulator… 11:30am to 12 noon: Poacher Morris. Venue: Banjo. Poacher Morris are Lincoln’s finest and original mixed Border Morris Team. They enjoy performing lively and energetic dances, and encourage new dancers and musicians to join us in fun, social, exercise.
12 noon to 12.30pm: Linzi Gold Meet and Merch. Venue: Stage. An opportunity to meet one of the bands performing at the Asylum and grab some much sought after merchandise: Linzi has been singing since the age of 6. For many years she performed at charity recitals and performances, honing her performance skills while training her voice with a classical voice coach. She is a soprano with a top range of E above top C. Linzi loves to sing light classical music and musical theatre and now writes her own beautiful and evocative songs with award winning producer Alan Glass. 12 noon to 1pm: Steam Western. Venue:Showground. Time to head to the Pip Pip, Tally Ho and Let’s Be Splendid Corral. Apparently the Castle just isn’t big enough for all those gun toting Chaps and Chapesses (in reality the Castle is big enough and there is lots of room to go around, but in this case the egos are the issue!) Taking place at High Noon (of course) is an all comer’s competition to see who is the best shot in the West (we will ensure we all face west to make this fact true). 12 noon to 12.30pm: Steampunk my iphone/ipad. Venue: Maker Marquee A demonstration on how to create your own unique steampunk 'skin' for an iPhone/iPad or similar device, and explain the potential pitfalls and the pleasures of having your own Victorian high tech gadget. 12.30pm to 1pm: Metropolis Meet and Merch. Venue: Stage.
An opportunity to meet one of the bands performing at the Asylum and grab some much sought after merchandise METЯOPOLIS have a worldwide steampunk following, and are considered one of the top UK steampunk bands. This tight 5 piece band of seasoned musicians write original retro futurist music with a dystopian slant, that really captures the imagination, whilst also managing to knock out slick guitar, pounding drums and catchy synth licks. 1pm to 1.30pm: Alice’s Night Circus Meet and Merch. Venue: Stage. An opportunity to meet one of the bands performing at the Asylum and grab some much sought after merchandise. Alice’s Night Circus is a curious journey down a musical rabbit hole, featuring a blend of apocalyptic fairytale steampop with a touch of the circus. 1pm to 1.30pm: The Art of Distressing and Weathering. Venue: Maker Marquee. To demonstrate how pristine objects can be transformed by the use of dry brushing, paint washes, and other distressing techniques. Useful for small to large objects, model and prop making, and making 'antiques' from new. 1pm to 1.30pm: The Dark Design Meet and Merch. Venue: Stage. An opportunity to meet one of the bands performing at the Asylum and grab some much sought after merchandise We are time and dimensional travellers naturally, from a world much like yours.... We're coming soon to cause a little mischief.... From what we know of your culture you will and may refer to us as Steam punk or Diesel Punk ,Victoriana or even just eccentric, we'll be with you soon to tell you stories and sing you tunes. 2pm to 2.30pm: Tommy Rott. Venue: Stage. Private TOMMY ROTT, court martialled from the concert party of the Queens Own 33rd Infantry and Airship Battalion, for fiddling with his organ whilst the Sergeant Major and his dear lady wife were trying to have a spot of tiffin…Today we find Tommy traveling around the country with his keyboard, performing covers of popular songs, these include; Being Boiled, In The Year 2525, Fade to Grey, and These Boots Were Made for Marching.. 2pm to 2.30pm: Steampunk Flower Arrangements. Venue: Maker Marquee. Keep sakes, tussle mussies, nose gays, pomanders, Victorian gardens were filled with beautiful fresh flowers, Lisa from Wild Carrot Flowers will demonstrate floral arrangements with a Victorian Steampunk Style. 2pm to 2.30pm: Words and Images – A Blissful Union or an Unholy Allience? Venue: Stage. Tom and Nimue Brown who are in fact married (to each other) and work together in the realms of words and images, will attempt to inform and entertain you on this topic. There will be no interpretative dance. 3pm to 4pm: Costume Parade. Venue: Stage/Banjo.
Whilst many steampunks wear clothes rather than costumes, The Asylum is the perfect place to deck out in your most splendid and eye catching outfit. Each year we run a costume parade and medals are awarded by our committee basing their scoring on imagination, quality of workmanship, creativity and execution. 8pm to 10pm: A Night with the Spirits. Venue: Lincoln Cathedral. Join Lady M and Count Rostov for an evening of horror, intrigue, lunacy and laughter, all lubricated with the spirit of choice; GIN! (Tickets only). 8pm: Stand-in Blues Band - Official Fringe Event. Venue: The Victoria Pub. The Victoria Pub will be hosting live Blues from the well regarded Stand in Blues Band on Saturday 29th August from 9pm to midnight in our marquee adjacent to the beer garden.
The Bazaar Electrica. Venue: Methodist Hall Bailgate. 10am to 5pm: Indoor Market: Traders include; Remnant Black, Angel Feather, C.J. Accessories, Dodo's Black Rainbow, Empires Ghosts, Juju Treats, Clockwork Tea Party, Ashgrey Millinery, Joan Evans Jackets, Time Chaser, Jacklyn Hyde, Ornamentology, Obzidianne, Beezeebee Decoupage, Sew Wonderland, Knicker Drawer Note Books, Jon Dea Photography & Lilac Moon Designs.
Venue: Castle Square. 10am to 5pm: Outdoor Market. Traders include; Tinkers Emporium, Cotesmore Collectables, Templacraft, Diamamtequeen Designs, RememberAll Gifts, Mosaic Creativity, Gearhearts Steampunk, Second Coming, Pommygranit, The Navigatrix and Arcane Armoury, Midnight Curiosity, Dr Geof, The Mad Cow Workshop, Arcturus Jewellery, Grey Bear Trading Co., Vitriol Fine Metalwork, Crafty Pumpkin. & Wateraid.
Venue: The Castle. 10am to 5pm: Outdoor Market. Traders include; Discombobuolous Workshop, Mothers Ruin Millinary, Broadarrow Jack Leathers, Empire Edibles, Radbourn Designs, Harlots and Angels, Dr Twists Photography, Cog o Two, Skewers Steampunk, Blue Lady Couture, Timekeepers Emporium, Steampunk Engineering, F.L.B., T.L.C. Upcycling, Andrew Bowskill, Belle Époque Corsets, Gizmobots & McSkelly Leathers.
SUNDAY 30 TH AUGUST At a glance. Time: Assembly Castle Westgate The Bazaar Rooms Electrica 10am Unlacing The Ornithopter The Market In Mystery Racing. Anarchists Castle Armoury. grounds. 11am The Facts Of Queen ’s P arade. The Modern Clockwork Market in Airships Watch. Castle 12 noon The History Steampunk Steampunk Square. Of Gin Superhero Writers are a Photo Opp. Diverse Making Display bunch. Cases. TMTWNBBFN Meet and Merc. 1pm Steampunk'd Flying Display. Cowboys in Nerf Holster Space. for under £5 Livia and the Elementals Meet and Merc. 2pm UK National Bathing Your first Tea Duelling Beauties. self pub: Final Tin bashing for pitfalls, Steampunks. editing, art, Captain Kuppa expectations. T and the Zeppelin Crew Meet and Merc. 3pm Lady The Mysterious A maker's Gardening Freak Show guide to small Meet and Merc. press comics.
The Dark Power on his Steampunk Predator. Splendid Simplicity Photo Opp. 4pm Strictly Poetry & Steampunk II Monologues by Big Al. 5pm 6pm 7pm 8pm The Seventh The Goblin to 11pm. Empire Ball Ball.
SUNDAY 30 TH AUGUST In detail. The Assembly Rooms Opening Times: 10am to 5pm. All day Exhibits in the Tennyson Suite: Demonstration of Body Painting: Come and see some of the most amazing full body painting. Daleks & Droids: Come along and meet Chris Droid and Dalek builder extraordinaire see some of his creations and get some advice to help with your own plans. The Great Exhibition: See some of the most amazing creations by event attendees. Main Ballroom: 10am: Unlacing The Mystery: Join or specialists to find answers to all those corset related questions you have. 11am: The Facts Of Modern Airships: A do not miss for every sky pirate. Our speaker is a modern full time airship designer. Come along and learn the history and future of the most steampunk of transport
12 noon: The History Of Gin: Love it or hate there is no disputing it features in most steampunk events to a lesser or greater degree. 1pm: Steampunk’d: Come and learn about the show that is taking America by steam. Will it make the journey across the pond? 2pm: UK National Tea Duelling Final: An all champions battle to the soggy end. The winner will be crowned UK national champion and win a prize of £100 of tea from this year’s sponsor Miss McKeown's Emporium of Fine Tea 3pm: Lady Gardening: A talk on Victorian gardening with our speaker Lady Violet Hugh, an avid gardener who has been known to slip in the odd innuendo or two. Those of extremely delicate persuasion should be aware. 4pm: Strictly Steampunk II: 'I could have Balled all night' – A waltz refresher plus basic tango and quickstep lessons. Ready for a night of dancing at the Empire or Goblin Ball. 8pm: The Seventh Empire Ball: A chance to dress in your finery, socialise, drink, dance and enjoy some fine steampunk entertainment.
Westgate Starting 10am Till 5pm The Asylum Book and Game Fair. The main hall at Westgate plays host to a number of Steampunk related games including The Dystopian Wars, Great Scott! The Game of Mad Invention, All Quiet on the Martian Front, and two steampunked Roleplay games. There will also be a display of Steampunk miniatures and our first ever Scrap Table Challenge. For the book side of things, we give you the chance to meet and converse with Steampunk authors and publishers, including; Telos publishing, The Last Line, Robert Harkess, Steve Turnbull, Ceri Leigh Harper (and trusty bear), David Wake, Jonathan Green, Sam Stone and Raven Dane. And if that wasn’t enough we also have Confirmed intimate readings by Robert Harkess (11am), Jonathan Green (noon), and Steve Turnbull (2pm). And then there are the programme features in the “Back Room”…
10am: The Anarchists Armoury: As the de facto villain of much Victorian and Steampunk Fiction, the Anarchist is a fearsome figure. Arkwright examines the weapons (using replicas for illustration) used by this international axis of terror, both if fact and in fiction. 11am: Clockwork Watch: Clockwork Watch is a multicultural Steampunk story about weird science, love, and automata, told through graphic novels, immersive events, online, newspaper, role play and eventually film. Yomi brings you up to date with developments of this popular mulita media project. 12 noon: Steampunk Writers are a Diverse bunch: A panel of authors discuss Diversity in Steampunk writing, and amongst Steampunk writers and publishers.
1pm: Cowboys in Space: Who are they and how did they end up in space. Arkwright and E.A. Stokes examine the attraction of setting the Victorian West in a futuristic space setting. Everybody welcome, even Bluecoats… 2pm: Your first self-pub: pitfalls, editing, art, expectations: Rob Harkess shares his experiences to educate and inform those who wish to undertake this perilous enterprise. 3pm: A maker's guide to small press comics: Dr. Geof and Tom brown will attempt to teach you everything they know about creating and marketing small press comics in a very limited time. This is bound to be interesting... 4pm: Poetry & Monologues by Big Al: Poems, Monologues; Big Al does both! Fun with puns, rhymes and an ever popular entertainer. 8pm: The Goblin Ball: The Goblin Ball is a new feature for Asylum 2015. This event is not as formal as the Empire Ball but should be just as much fun. Fantastic live music from The Filthy Spectacula supported by the vocal loveliness (and dance troupe) of Livia Pye. Watch out for a secret special guest too.
The Castle Opening Times: 10am to 5pm All activities in the Castle are “weather permitting”. The Maker Marquee, Exhibition and Meet and Merch activities will all be under cover, however, all other activities are at the mercy of the Great British weather. We have made the best efforts we can to provide a full programme, but changes, substitutions and cancellations may be made due to weather, or non arrival or participants. 10am to 11.30am: Ornithopter Racing. Venue: Showground. Whose Ornithopter will travel the furthest? In a gruelling test of aerodynamics and the strength of an elastic band, coglings (and their guardians) are invited to pitch their skills in this battle of the air. All forms of Peril have been removed from the flying contraptions, a fear of heights need not hamper your participation. Ornithopters will be provided, no need to attempt to assemble your own. Unofficial Championships: 3.30pm Winners from the morning session will be invited to battle it out for The Wooden Butterfly Award. 11am to 12 noon: Queen’s Parade. Venue: Banjo. Merging the spectacular parade of flags and the traditional Sunday military(ish) parade together to create a spectacular start to Sunday. All groups and individuals are welcome as long as they don’t mind the parade Sargent shouting. The parade will be inspected by Her Majesty Queen Victoria, then finish with a minute’s silence.
12 noon to 12.30pm: Steampunk Superhero Photo Opportunity. Venue: Stage. Saving the world whilst wearing fabulous outfits is all in a day’s work for this band of most splendid heroes. A DC/Marvel/Cogtastic mash up of your ultimate big screen and comic book heroes. See imagination, skill and not a strand of lycra take to the stage for your photography pleasure. All superheroes welcome! 12 noon to 12.30pm: Making Display Cases for your steampunk stuff. Venue: Maker Marquee. A Makers talk on custom building display cases from everything from a stuffed Tree Octopus to a model Time Machine to wall mounted displays for pocket watches and medals. 12.30pm to 1pm: The Men That Will Not Be Blamed For Nothing Meet and Merch. Venue:Stage. An opportunity to meet one of the bands performing at the Asylum and grab some much sought after merchandise Old school punk rock. Like, REALLY old school. Genuine 100% actual Londoners, The Men That Will Not Be Blamed For Nothing come from a past which probably never happened via a present they didn't want. Less steampunk and more "SteamPUNK", the British four piece mix Anarchy and Anachrony in equal measure. Expect a robot Sid Vicious covering Slayer in an 1877 East End Music Hall: a murky mix of Doctor Who, Doctor Watson and Doctored History. Not for the faint hearted or those of a delicate disposition.
1pm to 1.30pm: Flying Display. Venue: Banjo The Minimum Altitude Display Team (M.A.D.T) is the brainchild of an esteemed member of the Steampunk community. First performed at Lincoln Castle in 2014, this event has now become an international competition, with teams from across the globe being invited to participate. 1pm to 1.30pm: Nerf Holster for under a Fiver. Venue: Maker Marquee. A demonstration of how to make a nerf gun holster using found objects and cheap stuff sourced from charity shops. 1.30pm to 2pm: Livia and the Elementals Meet and Merch. Venue: Stage. An opportunity to meet one of the bands performing at the Asylum and grab some much sought after merchandise Lilting tunes and beautiful lyrics are brought to you by Livia, who is joined by the Elementals, Earth, Air, Fire and Water with some unique skills to entertain. 2pm to 2.30pm: Bathing Beauties. Venue: Stage. Time to show off your white bits (remember we are British and this is a family show, so maybe restrict this to an ankle, or wrist!) Following the appearance of a bearded Kandy Kraken last year, the competition has now flung its doors open wide (may the great god Cthulhu save us – other Gods are available) and invited all comers to don their most splendid bathing garments, dig out the gear shaped arm bands and inflate the floating dirigible, to parade in the Showground to the rapturous applause of the audience and the possibility of going away with a trophy. 2pm to 2.30pm: Tin Bashing for Steampunks. Venue: Maker Marqee. In true Blue Peter style, here is one Dr Quack prepared earlier, a step by step demonstration of making items from metal. 2.30pm to 3pm: Captain Kuppa T and the Zeppelin Crew Meet and Merch. Venue: Stage. An opportunity to meet one of the bands performing at the Asylum and grab some much sought after merchandise Steampunk acapella act extraordinary: captain & crew deliver a blend of upbeat and amusing twists on popular classics form 80s to doowop to chap hop parody. 3pm to 3.30pm: The Mysterious Freakshow Meet and Merch. Venue: Stage. The Mysterious Freakshow are a South West based Punky, Alt Rock and Steampunk Band formed in 2012. Mixing dark pyschadelic rock with pop sensibilities. Their unique take on the Steampunk genre has allowed them to draw upon their varied and eclectic musical influences which include Kate Bush, XRay Spex, The Cure, Bjork, The Damned, Siouxsie & The Banshees to name but a few ....
3pm to 3.30pm: The Dark Power on his Steampunk Predator. Venue: Maker Marquee. Steampunk's become something of a major obsession for The Dark Power's Joe Slatter, over the last few years he's created a variety of sculptures, props, costumes and videos in the genre. Come and meet the maker, discover his latest project and come face to face with the ultimate Predator. Ask questions, discover new techniques and take your next step into the Dark Side. 3.30pm to 4pm: Splendid Simplicity Photo Opportunity. Venue: Stage. The Steampunk family are a community of makers and we know that out there are hundreds of very talented ladies and gentlemen who have used the Simplicity Steampunk pattern No 2172 to make some stunning and unique outfits. This is an opportunity to swap notes, talk to other makers and see the diversity of wonderful creations that are on parade today. Come along in your finest Simplicity outfit and show us your own interpretation and then join others for a photo opportunity in pattern matching. 9pm to 11.45pm: Oh Dear, what would the Major say? Venue: Bishop Grosseteste University. The Major’s “Folk Singing” evening is rightly famous. Is he the only person who doesn’t know that it is actually a superb evening of burlesque and entertainment? This year presented by Tallulah Blue.
The Bazaar Electrica. Venue: Castle Square. 10am to 5pm: Outdoor Market. Traders include; Tinkers Emporium, Cotesmore Collectables, Templacraft, Diamamtequeen Designs, RememberAll Gifts, Mosaic Creativity, Gearhearts Steampunk, Second Coming, Pommygranit, The Navigatrix and Arcane Armoury, Midnight Curiosity, Dr Geof, The Mad Cow Workshop, Arcturus Jewellery, Grey Bear Trading Co., Vitriol Fine Metalwork, Crafty Pumpkin & Wateraid.
Venue: The Castle. 10am to 5pm: Outdoor Market. Traders include; Discombobuolous Workshop, Mothers Ruin Millinary, Broadarrow Jack Leathers, Empire Edibles, Radbourn Designs, Harlots and Angels, Dr Twists Photography, Cog o Two, Skewers Steampunk, Blue Lady Couture, Timekeepers Emporium, Steampunk Engineering, F.L.B., T.L.C. Upcycling, Andrew Bowskill, Belle Époque Corsets, Gizmobots & McSkelly Leathers.
MONDAY 31 ST AUGUST At a glance. Time: Assembly Castle Westgate The Bazaar Rooms Electrica 10am Strictly Venue Knights with Market in Steampunk III opens. Machineguns. Methodist 11am Lavender's Steampunk Writing Hall. Blue or The Gadgets and Competition Etiquette of Gizmos Judging. Market In Flowers Sunday Castle Driver Meet grounds. and Merc. 12 noon The Rap Wacky Theatrical Market in Workshop Races. Reading and Castle Maker writing. Square. Surgery with The Doktor. 1pm What Next? Jetpack Race. Renegade Prof. Pilot. Elemental Meet and Merc. 2pm Poetry & Teddy bear Steampunk Monologues Punknic. and the by Big Al Faux Supernatural.. Afternoon Taxidermy. Tea Dance Filthy Spectacular Meet and Merc. 3pm Illicit Market. 4pm Closing Ceremony. 8pm Dead Dog to 11pm. Party
MONDAY 31 ST AUGUST In detail. The Assembly Rooms Opening Times: 10am to 4pm. All day Exhibits in the Tennyson Suite: Alistair Bells Chroma Key Photographic Studio: Come along and be photographed in a unique way with the aid of special lighting and green screen technology. Daleks & Droids: Come along and meet Chris Droid and Dalek builder extraordinaire see some of his creations and get some advice to help with your own plans. The Great Exhibition: See some of the most amazing creations by event attendees. Main Ballroom: 10am: Strictly Steampunk III: 'F5 Lessons – Refreshing Dance' Start the day with refreshers in waltz, quickstep and tango, ahead of the first Afternoon Tea Dance 11am: Lavender's Blue or The Etiquette of Flowers: Learn the etiquette and language of flowers, with demonstrations of how to provide your chosen one with a small posy to silently express messages such as "Your Steambear fills my heart with joy" or "I distrust your plans for World Domination".
12 noon: The Rap Workshop: If you want to learn the secrets then learn from a master. Professor Elemental takes class. 1pm: What Next?: Having grown to 4 days where is the event going next. Come along a take part in a discussion on the future direction of the Weekend At The Asylum. 2pm: Poetry & Monologues by Big Al: Returning to the Asylum but this time in the main ball room to entertain and amuse even more people. 2.30pm: Afternoon Tea Dance: Whether you waltz, tango or quickstep or simply like to watch spend a little time enjoying a dance or two as the event end draws closer. 8pm: The Dead Dog Party: For the die hards who want every last minute out of the weekend. Informal, relaxed and with great entertainment. Westgate Starting 10am Till 5pm The Asylum Book and Game Fair. The main hall at Westgate plays host to a number of Steampunk related games including The Dystopian Wars, Great Scott! The Game of Mad Invention, All Quiet on the Martian Front, and two steampunked Roleplay games. There will also be a display of Steampunk miniatures and our first ever Scrap Table Challenge. For the book side of things, we give you the chance to meet and converse with Steampunk authors and publishers, including; Telos publishing, The
Last Line, Robert Harkess, Steve Turnbull, Ceri Leigh Harper (and trusty bear), David Wake, Jonathan Green, Sam Stone and Raven Dane. And if that wasn’t enough we also have intimate readings by the fireside. And then there are the programme features in the “Back Room”…
10am: Knights with Machineguns: Arkwright takes wry look at speculative fictions obsession with anachronism. 11am: Writing Competition Judging: Our esteemed (or possibly just steamed) panel of authors will judge this years writing competition. 12 noon: Theatrical Reading and Writing: Playwright and author David Wake discusses how to bring theatre to prose and how imaginative and theatrical reading can change people’s reception of a work. 1pm: Renegade Pilot: Rising young comic artist Matt Clarke talks about his on going serial, Renegade Pilot. 2pm: Steampunk and the supernatural: Sam Stone and Raven Dane draw on the experience as writers of supernatural fiction to examine the recurring theme of the supernatural in Steampunk fiction.
The Castle Opening Times: 10am to 5pm All activities in the Castle are “weather permitting”. The Maker Marquee, Exhibition and Meet and Merch activities will all be under cover, however, all other activities are at the mercy of the Great British weather. We have made the best efforts we can to provide a full programme, but changes, substitutions and cancellations may be made due to weather, or non arrival or participants, 11am to 11.30am: Steampunk Gadgets and Gizmos. Venue: Maker Marquee. Join local chap Rodney for an introduction to his Steampunk gadget projects, including a very handy and cogtastic backpack. 11.30am to 12 noon: Sunday Driver Meet and Merch. Venue: Stage. An opportunity to meet one of the bands performing at the Asylum and grab some much sought after merchandise. Sunday Driver blend together Indian and British influences from past and present with the help of a pumpkin, a melon and the skin of a goat. Formed in Cambridge in 2000, Sunday Driver have grown from a small acoustic act to a riotous 7 piece band, playing headline gigs in the UK and abroad, creating ground breaking music that blends contemporary sounds with Eastern influences and instrumentation.
12 noon to 12.30pm: Wacky Racers. Venue: Banjo. Lots of crazy fun and steampunk creativity and are held in the Castle at 12 Noon on Monday. The Wacky Racers are a perennial favourite at The Asylum and feature a variety of homemade ‘vehicles’ attempting to race a simple course. Remember – it’s not the winning that matters, it’s how splendid you are doing. 12.30pm to 1pm: Maker Surgery with the Doktor. Venue: Maker Marquee. Join Herr Döktor for a trip into the laboratory/castle/dungeon* (delete where appropriate) to discover the thoughts, musings and all important projects from one of the UK’s most esteemed makers (he is an award winning chap you know, in more ways than one!). 1pm to 1.30pm: Jetpack Race. Venue: Banjo. The jet pack race is a simple run wearing a jetpack from the start line to the finish (along the main drag of the banjo). If a piece falls off of the jetpack the racer must go back to collect it and carry it over the finish line with them. 1.30pm to 2pm: Professor Elemental Meet and Merch. Venue: Stage. An opportunity to meet one of the bands performing at the Asylum and grab some much sought after merchandise Professor Elemental has created a unique neo Victorian blend of hip hop and comedy, and is the man behind the world’s first steampunk rap album. His music charts subjects such as steam powered flight, underwater discovery, and nice cups of tea. With a heart of brass and a fine pith helmet, he embodies the Victorian spirit of invention and exploration. He was recently awarded Best Musical Act in the Brighton fringe as well as most Eccentric Englishman and most Eccentric artist. 2pm to 3pm: Teddy Bear’s Punknic. Venue: Showground. Now with added BEARS! If you go down to the Castle one day, you are sure of a big surprise… STEAMPUNK BEARS (moles also welcome!) Come along and bring your little furry friends, as well as some lovely tasty comestibles (let’s face it, Steampunks could feed several armies and solve world hunger at the average Punknic, so just bring enough for yourself and your hungry minions.) No Punknic would be complete without a story or two, so maybe a special guest will pop along and entertain you all. 2pm to 2.30pm: Faux Taxidermy – The unnatural history of Peter Harrow Esq. Venue: Maker Marquee. A talk on the making of faux taxidermy of creatures from literature, fact and fable to grace the walls and shelves of any steampunk home. 2.30pm to 3pm: Filthy Spectacular Meet and Merch. Venue: Stage. An opportunity to meet one of the bands performing at the Asylum and grab some much sought after merchandise Take a bit of Gypsy Punk, add a bit of Dark Cabaret, a hint of Piracy with a waft of Steampunk, shanty, Dark & mix with Darkness & you are almost there...
3pm to 3.30pm: The Illicit Market. Venue: Banjo. The now infamous way for small independent traders to offer their Steampunk wares to the cream of Steampunk society. We call it… The Illicit Market. This is a combination of market and role playing opportunity. It is themed around the “smuggling of exotica”. People can bring objects to sell but the “Guild of Privateers, Illicit Entrepreneurs and Scoundrels”* are on the lookout for “the authorities” and enforcing a nominal charge. 4pm: Closing Ceremony. That’s it, it’s over for another year (almost!) come and join us to say farewell and start the countdown to doing it all over again in 362 days!..
The Bazaar Electrica. Venue: Methodist Hall Bailgate. 10am to 5pm: Indoor Market: Traders include; Remnant Black, Angel Feather, C.J. Accessories, Dodo's Black Rainbow, Empires Ghosts, Juju Treats, Clockwork Tea Party, Ashgrey Millinery, Decoupage, Sew Wonderland, Knicker Drawer Note Books, Jon Dea Photography & Lilac Moon Designs. Venue: Castle Square. 10am to 5pm: Outdoor Market. Traders include; Tinkers Emporium, Cotesmore Collectables, Templacraft, Diamamtequeen Designs, RememberAll Gifts, Mosaic Creativity, Gearhearts Steampunk, Second Coming, Pommygranit, The Navigatrix and Arcane Armoury, Midnight Curiosity, Dr Geof, The Mad
Cow Workshop, Arcturus Jewellery, Grey Bear Trading Co., Vitriol Fine Metalwork, Crafty Pumpkin & Wateraid.
Venue: The Castle. 10am to 5pm: Outdoor Market. Traders include; Discombobuolous Workshop, Mothers Ruin Millinary, Broadarrow Jack Leathers, Empire Edibles, Radbourn Designs, Harlots and Angels, Dr Twists Photography, Cog o Two, Skewers Steampunk, Blue Lady Couture, Timekeepers Emporium, Steampunk Engineering, F.L.B., T.L.C. Upcycling, Andrew Bowskill, Belle Époque Corsets, Gizmobots & McSkelly Leathers.
THE GREAT EXHIBITION One of the reasons for holding a steampunk convention was to allow people to show their artwork. The VSS has long championed the democratisation of art and seek to encourage imagination, creativity, ingenuity and skill. It is always a popular feature and 2015 will be no different. If you have work you would like to exhibit please bring it along to The Assembly Rooms on Bailgate between 10am and 11am on Saturday and ask to go through to set up your work. You will be directed to where the exhibition is being set up and the steward in charge will be able to direct you. During the course of the weekend people are invited to exhibit their: 3D Objects: contraptions, devices, props and items, 2D pictures Steambears. Please also bring along a card with a description of no more than 100 words about your submission. Please put your name and mobile number on the reverse of the card. Since the first Asylum we have made awards for exceptional work. You do not have to submit your work for consideration for these awards if you do not wish to. If you do not then simply mark the front of your card with "Exhibit Only". The aim is not to judge people's work but to be able to celebrate excellence. If you do want to be considered for the awards then it is vitally important that the piece is not identifiable as yours and has not been exhibited before (including posting pictures of it online.) This is a “blind” exhibition and the committee must not be able to identify the artists. Medals etc are awarded on the merits of the work and we do not wish there to be any personal bias.
Submissions should be collected 2 and 3 pm on Monday. We are sorry but we cannot provide mains electricity for any piece. Please note: We cannot supply art boards or wall space. If you are submitting a 2D piece then please bring along an easel or stand to display it please. The Awards The steampunk world is so diverse and creative we found it impossible to divide up gadgets, gizmos, contraptions and mods into classes. Instead we will be awarding the following prestigious prizes for 3D work: The Pugin Award for Craftsmanship The Rossetti Award for Aesthetics The Brunel Award for Spirit of Steampunk The Jules Verne Award for Ingenuity For 2D works the winner will receive the Ruskin Award. The Steambear will win the Steambear Medal and be named as British Steambear Ambassador 2015. We are delighted to be hosting a delegation of Steambears from Sweden this year. There will be certificates of commendations in the above classes too. Awards will be announced and made at the closing ceremony, 4pm on Monday. Good luck!
WEEKEND AT THE ASYLUM 2015 COSTUME PARADE The Costume Contest is held at 3pm on Saturday afternoon in the Castle. Whilst many steampunks wear clothes rather than costumes The Asylum is the perfect place to deck out in your most splendid and eye catching outfit. Each year we run a costume parade and medals are awarded by our committee basing their scoring on imagination, quality of workmanship, creativity and execution. If you would like to join the costume parade and be eligible for an award you need to pop along to the Assembly Rooms on Friday afternoon or Saturday morning before 12:00 and drop in the following information:. Name Name you wish to be introduced on stage as A mobile phone number Title of your costume A 100 word description that will be read out as you walk around on stage. Please include two copies of the above information. You will need to assemble at the Castle and be ready in your outfit by 3pm on Saturday.
THE WACKY RACERS The Wacky Racers are a perennial favourite at The Asylum. Lots of crazy fun and steampunk creativity and are held in the Castle at 1pm on Sunday. Please report to the race marshals. (Flourescent jackets) RULES: Vehicles must be entirely (wo)man powered. This power need not be wholly within the vehicle (they may be pushed/towed by runners therefore. Vehicles must have more than two wheels, have a steering system and carry a "driver". Drivers must wear helmets and goggles. Vehicles fall in to one of two classes. Class one straight man power or 1:1 power transmission Class two making use of mechanical advantage (e.g. cranks/chains/gears on cycles) The course shall be "the banjo" at the Castle. Vehicles will need to cover 60 meters, turn in the circle at the end then 60 meters back to the finish. Any underhanded sneakiness such as guns etc must be safe to other drivers/crews and spectators and must not cause stains or damage to the course/castle. Direct interference with other racers or sabotage etc will result in disqualification. Firing nerf darts or water pistols etc is not considered interference. Drivers are strongly recommended to wear gloves and knee/elbow pads. All drivers enter entirely at their own risk. All drivers agree to abide by the
marshals’ instructions at all times and will do nothing that may be considered hazardous to other racers or spectators and officials. JET PACK RACE: Unfortunately our jet packs do not help pilots fly. The jet pack race is a simple run wearing a jetpack from the start line to the finish (along the main drag of the banjo.) if a piece falls off of the jetpack the racer must go back to collect it and carry it over the finish line with them. Marshals’ decisions are final and binding and entrants agree to abide by them.
TEA DUELLING AT THE ASYLUM 2015 Tea duelling has taken the world by storm and is being played at steampunk events across the globe. Here in the UK, the home of tea duelling, we are proud to run not one but two competitions this year at The Asylum. On Saturday at 12.30pm we will have the Asylum 2015 Championship and on Sunday at 2pm The UK National Finals 2015. Who will win these coveted titles? (Both events will be held in the Assembly Rooms.) Pre registration has closed for the Asylum Championship. Even so a “second” may have to be drawn from the audience if a “principal” loses their nerve and fails to appear. Competitions will run strictly according to the Articles of the Association available here: http://teaduel.yolasite.com/the rules.php The winner of Saturday's competition will be afforded the title of Asylum Tea Duel Champion 2015. They will also be entitled to compete on Sunday for United Kingdom National Title. Participation in Sunday’s competition is open only to winners of qualifying competitions held in the UK. These competitions have been run during the latter half of 2014 and 2015. As for the Asylum title competitors must appear on time or face disqualification. The format of the competition will be declared on the day. Good luck and happy dunking!
Miss McKeown’s Emporium of Fine Tea Beautiful vintage packaging and a focus on superior ingredients and full flavours make this boutique tea company uniquely charming. The award winning tea comes in smart pinstripe refill bags and hand tied apothecary jars, and features classics such as Royal Darjeeling and Assam Gold alongside quirkier blends such as Goblin Market and Mint Humbug. Even just this month the humble Heritage Breakfast blend won an award. We invite canny ladies and gentlemen to compete and win a year’s supply of this fine product. The winner will receive twelve refill bags of tea, one delivered by post each month for one year. A tea strainer will also be provided with the first delivery. The winner may opt for a single blend of their choice for the entire twelve months, or the delightful surprise of a different blend each month, chosen by Miss McKeown. An up to date list of available blends can be viewed on any modern pocket confabulator at: www.missmckeowns.com/pages/blends It must be noted that rumours that the competition will take the form of Tea Duelling are wholly unsubstantiated and we couldn’t possibly comment.
The now infamous way for small independent traders to offer their steampunk wares to the cream of steampunk society. We call it... The Illicit Market Cheekily taking place under the noses of the Magistrates in The Banjo of the Castle, it will start at 3pm Monday and end at 3.30pm. This is a combination of market and role playing opportunity. It is themed around the “smuggling of exotica”. People can bring objects to sell but the "Guild of Privateers, Illicit Entrepreneurs and Scoundrels"* are on the lookout for “the authorities” and enforcing a nominal charge. Sellers are required to pay a single holiday token (£2 coin) for trading. People wishing to sell can enter from 14:55. A Single Bell will signal the traders to enter. There will be no tables or furniture and everything someone brings in must be carried in by them alone in a single trip and hidden from view! (There may be commendations from the Piemen for the most imaginative and impressive ways of hiding your stock.) No trolleys allowed.** if there are two or more of you selling together you enter as individuals. Buyers will be allowed to queue from 3.pm and enter at the sound of 2 bells (Approximately 15:05) We will then have twenty minutes of frantic browsing and buying. At around 15:20 there will be a single warning Bell that "the authorities are on the way" and buyers should get ready to leave. NOTE: A whistle may sound during the market to indicate the unexpected approach of “the authorities” and all participants are urged to remain still and quiet until 2 whistle blasts indicate an all clear. 3 Bells signal the buyers have five minutes to leave. Buyers who take five minutes and one second or more (with a countdown) will have to pay a £1 exit fine. (Please have your one pound coins ready since there is no change from the Piemen) This is the warning time for sellers. Any seller who has not exited the room by 15:35 will be saddled with a £1 exit charge too. Anyone trying to exit after 15:40? This charge rises to £5 (This keeps the excitement and tension and makes for a swift turnaround for the next feature.) Everyone wishing to participate in the feature does so on the understanding that they agree to and accept fully the structure, terms and conditions. All sellers must have a £2 coin, a £1 coin and a £5 note on them to pay for their entry and the possibility of exit fines. All buyers must have a £1 coin on them in case they have to pay a fine on exit. This is a very popular and fun feature. Please enter into it in the correct spirit. We reserve the right to refuse admission, refuse permission to trade and require anyone to leave without notice. Keep it splendid and keep it fun! * The Guild of PIES or otherwise known as the "Piemen" **Potential sellers and buyers with an access related disability may apply for special consideration.
WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO? Weekend at the Asylum is run by a team of volunteers who simply want to facilitate the best steampunk event they can. Your money through tickets and wristbands make it all possible. This year, for the first time, we have received some support from outside agencies who have sponsored features for us. Even so, if you didn’t buy your tickets, there would be no UK Steampunk Festival. We are now the longest running steampunk event in the World and probably the biggest wholly steampunk event anywhere. Since you buy the tickets, it’s your fault. Thank you.
(Please note that all charity money raised over the weekend is kept totally separately and does not appear here. This year our charity is once again Water Aid. Safe drinking water is the true essential of life.)