Weekend at the Asylum: Five Years On

Weekend at the Asylum: Five Years On
Back in 2008 the UK steampunk community was, if you will excuse the pun,
gathering steam! Online the community was rapidly growing. In the real
world luminaries such as Herr Doktor were facilitating meets and Sydeian, Mr
James Richardson Brown, was leading the way with gatherings and tea parties
at WGW. White Mischief had adopted a steampunk theme for some of its
events and The Chap magazine had run a feature on the scene. The Men Who
Will Not Be Blamed For Nothing appeared in that feature and were leading
the way on steampunk music and (in the form of Mr Andrew O’Neil) comedy.
All of this was communicated thanks to the far sighted, uanassuming,
Tinkergirl, creator of Brass Goggles, the main steampunk online community.
The community was asking for a national convention. It wanted a place which
we could call our own rather than being a subset of another event, convention
or festival. It wanted a place where artists could share their work, authors
could talk about their books, bands could play and most of all where people
could get together and socialise. The conversation about this was long. Where
could we do it? If we held an event would anybody come? In 2009 a group of
passionate steampunks decided to stick their heads above the parapet and The
Asylum was born. Lincoln was chosen because it was a beautiful city with a
pedestrian friendly medieval quarter. It also had a great venue in the form of
the Lawn – the city’s former Victorian lunatic asylum. Surely an omen if ever
there was one.
The idea was simple. A steampunk convention run by steampunks. It would
have a day programme of talks and features. There would be chance to show
artwork. “We want a costume competition”, “We’d like to have a picnic”,
“Can we promote our products/books/comics etc” Steampunks said we they
wanted. We planned what we could do. Most importantly they also bought
tickets. The festival was (and is) totally privately financed, no grants or
subsidies and no thought of profit. Every penny was to be spent on the event.
It was scary when the event was launched. Would enough people come so
that it didn’t make a loss that would have to be covered by the organisers?
Luckily in that first year more than 400 people did come. Steampunks from
the online community. Goths from Whitby. Convention goers from large SF
cons. Enthusiasts from around the UK and even a handful from abroad. The
event was a huge (if exhausting) success and so we had to do it all again the
following year. 2010 and the Castle came on board. The event had space to
grow and it needed it as it doubled in size. The day programme expanded to
two days. More music and entertainment. The Bazaar Eclectica moved into
the Victorian Prison. This was another great event enjoyed by hundreds and
finally the City started to wake up to steampunk.
Hundreds of people have contributed. Far too many to name. Volunteer staff
work long hours to set up and organise the event and to make it happen each
September. Panellists and contributors. Performers. Traders. Artists, tinkerers
and costumers. People running games and activities. Writers. Musicians. The
often unsung and overlooked venue staff. People who have promoted the
event to their friends and contacts or at other events. Even so the event could
not happen without the ordinary steampunk, the consumer who buys a ticket
and comes along to have a good time. They are the ones who actually make it
all possible and the ones that the event is primarily for.
2013 and the “convention” has grown into a full blown festival. Around 1500
steampunks come to Lincoln for the convention, the original core of the event.
At the same time it has widened out to offer features for the general public and
other interested visitors. This year we have an art exhibition and our second
film festival, a large public market, programme items, spectacles and
entertainment all free to access by steampunks, visitors and Joe public – a
further 1500 people.
Five years of “Asylum”. There is no way we could ever have predicted that it
would be such a success and such a highlight of the year for so many people.
Now with the hospitality of our core venues; The Castle, Assembly Rooms
and Bishop Grossteste University, together with the support of the local
community in the form of Lincoln BIG, Westgate Academy and local
businesses our future in Lincoln looks rosy. With the continued support of
the steampunk community we should be able to continue to run the convention
and festival that you asked for way back in 2008. Many thanks to you all and,
when you get a chance, raise a glass to the old event and wish it good fortune
for the next five years and beyond.
John, Karen, Ben, Meri, Jim, Jo, Trevor, Jackie (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 "normals" 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 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 do normally and for the Ball
think of it as if you were invited to your 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 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. Good
behaviour is expected. 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 to keep passageways and
doorways etc clear at all times. Avoid standing in groups having conversations
where you may block access and egress. We have the historic quarter of a city
to play with so please be considerate.
BE SPLENDID!
ENJOY THE ASYLUM 2013
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
Hidden away at the back of The Assembly Rooms, 3pm Sunday
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 2:55pm. 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 3.10) We will then have forty minutes of frantic browsing and
buying. At 3:50 there will be a 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
4.05 will be saddled with a £1 exit charge too. Anyone trying to exit after
4.10? 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
NEW BOOKS AND LAUNCHES
The Asylum has a well established track record now for supporting authors
and publishers. This year we have even more present in the main room of the
Assembly Rooms thoughout the weekend.
We also have the following
special launches:
Friday 17:00: Last Line Publishing launch two great new books:
The Front Line, Volume 2 of The Automata Wars. LM Cooke
Deadly automata infiltrated the city in The Home Front... what horrors await
the soldiers on The Front Line?
Private Reynolds never realised the true extent of the terror he would face in
the rain drenched trenches. The monstrous enemy killing machines seem
unstoppable; and a deadly, mystery sickness is spreading, while rumours
persist of dark things lurking in the surrounding swamps…
There is confusion in the military. What business do the nurses of the First Aid
Nursing Yeomanry have dictating policy? And what are the ladies of illrepute, under the tutelage of the sinister Madame Jewel, brothel owner and
spymistress, doing at the fighting front?
As the lines between friend and enemy become more confused in his head,
Reynolds must decide whether to follow orders like a good soldier or to think
for himself. His choice may change the face of the war... one way or
another…
Ghosts of the Asylum: (Ed. Jim Snee)
Autumn 1996. Two recently qualified archaeologists, Jim Smith and James
Bourne, are investigating the ruins of the Asylum at Lincoln. One carries the
burden of a strange and damaging past, the other hides a deadly secret;
although which is which is hard to say. They search for clues about a hidden
past in the hope that the truth can ease their burden. As they search they
disturb the forgotten stories of the Asylum; the ghosts of the past. At the end
of their journey is the truth, but the truth can be a dangerous thing...
Friday 18:00 The very latest offering from Asylum favourite Robert Rankin
When Alice (of Wonderland) is abducted by aliens she begins her biggest and
strangest adventure. The year is 1899 and Worlds War Two has begun. With
her loyal flock of performing kiwi birds only Alice can save the world.
Robert Rankin's latest illustrated book is limited to 3 000 signed and dedicated
copies, and is currently being adapted into a full length feature film by awardwinning British independent film-maker Martin Gooch. If you miss Robert at
the Asylum, Alice on Mars is also available from his facebook page and for
updates on the film's progress join our group:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/313955618748800/
Saturday 12:00: Telos have three absolutely unmissable offerings.
Kat on a Hot Tin Airship Sam Stone
It is 1865 and the American Civil War has come to an end. Now Kat Lightfoot
finds herself in the middle of another kind of war: a family feud involving her
brother Henry and his new wife. But what is behind the strange behaviour of
this affluent Southern family?
Caught in the crossfire of an implacable spirit's attempt to wreak vengeance on
the Pollitt family, Kat must once again enlist the help of journalist George
.
Pepper and the inventor Martin Crewe to find out what really haunts the
family's past.
In order to learn what devastating secrets the Pollitts are hiding she must first
explore her own feelings for Maggie's brother Orlando, who is one of the
seductive Nephilim.
A GHOSTLY STEAMPUNKED TALE OF FAMILY SECRETS, VOODOO
AND VENGEANCE FROM THE AUTHOR OF ZOMBIES AT TIFFANY'S.
Absinthe and Arsenic Raven Dane
In rural England, zombies attack a sleepy Yorkshire village - a Thames-side
urchin falls foul of a vengeful spirit - a plot to mix arsenic and absinthe goes
horribly wrong - ghostly spectres haunt the streets of gaslit London - and a
clockmaker becomes obsessed with the passing of time.
Welcome to the dark and fantastical world of Raven Dane, where a curse
brings with it a fatal chill and an aging relative is a demon in disguise.
16 TALES OF VICTORIAN HORROR, STEAMPUNK ADVENTURES
AND DARK, DEADLY, OBSESSION.
Doctor Tripps Kaiju Cocktail: Kit Cox
In the battle of Steam versus Diesel there can only be one winner, so do you
feel lucky punk?
From the creator of the award nominated “How to bag a Jabberwock” comes
the first in a trilogy of books of mad science and giant monsters.
Dr Tripps’ the cranium enhanced genius (Evil is such a provocative word) and
his minions strive to keep a diesel obsessed world steam driven, it’s just such a
shame that means plunging the whole globe into all out War.
Only a rocket pack wearing monster hunter and an umbrella wielding agent of
N.A.N.I stand in his way.
COME MARVEL AS THE ROCKETEER MEETS MARY POPPINS IN A
ROLLICKING TALE OF ADVENTURE, GIANT MONSTERS AND
FLYING CITIES
Finally Sunday 13:00 More superb poetry from Arthur Foot
Arthur Foot III: poet, artist, bon-vivant and the decidedly male half of Britain's
premier Steampunk/Music-Hall/Comedy/Poetry double act The Cogkneys is
proud to present his second book of comic poetry, Ribald For Your Pleasure
II: Poetic Boogaloo. A collection of yet more rollicking, innuendo-laden
verse from the author of 'Trousers', 'Oh! Those Naughty Tentacles' and 'My
Fabulous Erection'. Featuring poems about smut, booze and, er, other stuff,
this slender yet inviting tome will titillate, amuse and edify.
THE WACKY RACERS
Please start to muster for the Wacky Racers at 1.45. pm. Start time for the first
race, 2.pm Saturday in The Castle Grounds.
On arrival 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, of course.
 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 bicycles)
 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 sneakyess 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.
 All drivers will stop immediately they hear a Marshall's warning
whistle or see a red warning flag being waved.
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.
Grand Race Marshal in charge - Miss Kathy Davidson
Marshals’ decisions are final and binding, entrants agree to abide by them.
All racers agree to abide by the rules, to ensure they are not a hazard to
anyone else and ride at their own risk.
Tea Duelling
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 1pm we will have the
Asylum 2013 Championship and on Sunday at 2pm The UK
National Finals 2013. 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 2013. 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 2012 and 2013. 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!
Tabletop Gaming at the Asylum
Tabletop games were a feature of steampunk from the very early days of
the term being coined. Space 1889 and Cthulhu by Gaslight led the way.
New for Asylum 2013 we have a dedicated area and strand for tabletop
gaming. The gaming stream is at The Duke William Hotel, Bailgate, on
Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September between 11am and 5pm. We would
like to take this opportunity to thank the pioneers stepping out into new
territories for us; Lynne Hardy, Alex Pocklington, Geof Sims and Mark
Goodman.
Games:Cogs, Cakes & Swordsticks – A role-playing game of steampunk
pulp adventure designed to be played in the comfort of your favourite tea shop
with your friends (although a pub will definitely do!)
Dystopian Wars – Set in a world where the Industrial Revolution happened
decades before our own, take up the battle for land, sea and air in the year
1870 with Spartan Games’ beautiful miniatures.
Tripods! – Can you save the inhabitants of Victorian London from Martian
invaders, or has the rout of mankind truly begun?
Around the World Airship Races - Slot cars with a difference.
Saturday 14th:
Cogs, Cakes & Swordsticks – Rulebooks and badges for sale; demonstration
games at 12.30pm, 2pm and 3.30pm (visit the stand to sign up)
Dystopian Wars – Talk at 11.15am; demonstration games on demand and at
2pm; miniatures painting (visit the stand for further details)
4pm Airship races - have a go and mini tournament.
Sunday 15th:
Cogs, Cakes & Swordsticks – Rulebooks and badges for sale; demonstration
games at 11.30am and 2.30pm (visit the stand to sign up)
Dystopian Wars – Talk at 1.15pm; demonstration games on demand and a
tournament (winners announced at 4.30pm); miniatures painting (visit the
stand for further details)
Tripods! – Demonstration games at 11am-1pm and 2pm-5pm (visit the stand
for further details)
Tabletop
W 024 7655
THE BAZAAR ECLECTICA
The following traders are participating in the Asylum 2013 and you can
find them at the venues listed. Please see timetable summary for
opening times.
Westgate Academy – Westgate.
Open to wristband holders only on Saturday (10.00-17.00) and
wristband holders plus general public on Sunday (10.30-16.00) There
is a £3 admission charge for non-wristband holders.
Prior Attire, Skewers Steampunk, Nightshades Clothing,
House of Hirudinea, Dragonswann Designs, Tinker’s Emporium,
House of Freya, Hattie’s Clothing, Obzidian Clothing, Crashing Wave,
Wiserabbit, Discombobulous Workshop, Jacklyn Hyde,
McSkelly Leathers, Addixxtion Designs, Baron von Krakenhunter,
Harlots and Angels, Dead Good Jewellery.
The Castle
A tented trading display within the Castle itself. Castle admission
charges apply. (Wristband holders admitted free.)
Mother’s Ruin Millinery, Cog o’ Two, Appletree Vintage,
The Captain’s Ephemeral Emporium, Blue Lady Couture,
FLB Westernwear, Radbourne Designs, Victorian Costume Company,
Airship Apothecary, Wyte Phantom, Professor Maelstromme,
Second Coming, Steampunk Workshops, Broadarrow Jack Leathers,
Prometheus Gearing, Steampunk Engineering.
The Assembly Rooms
Publishers, authors, artists and photographers are in the Assembly
Rooms contributing to the programme of features as well as exhibiting.
Saturday 10.00-17.00 and Sunday 10.30 – 17.00. Also home to the
“Illicit Market”, our pop up “Bring and Sell” on Sunday at 15:00.
Admission to wristband holders only.
The Assembly Rooms are home to:
Fil Rouge Publishing, Telos Publishing, Last Line Publishing,
Clockwork Chronicle Magazine, Clockwork WatchProject
Jonathan Green, Robert Rankin, Toby Frost, Sam Stone, Raven Dane,
Craig Hallam, Kit Cox, Emily Ladybird,
Gary Nichol’s Photography, Haberdash Promotions
Castle Square
An open public market in the square in front of the Castle’s east gate.
Open c. 09.00-1700 Saturday and 10.00-1600 Sunday.
Empire Edibles, Templarcraft, Ton’s Tops, Diamante Queen,
Temperance Tavern, Coucou Heart, Northern Steam Docks, The
Navigatrix,
Arcane Armoury, London jack’s Leather, Cottesmore, CJ Accessories,
Professor Cooper, Lady Elsie’s Fancies, Dragonswann Designs,
Curious Fashion, Maybe Moor, Fell From Grace, Shabby Cheek,
Pinkneydell Dolls, Korkers Hogs n Cogs, Island of Dr Geoff,
Crafty Pumpkin, Emma Brackenbury, Mosaic Creativity
The Duke William
Home to our gaming stream this year on Saturday and Sunday 11.00 –
17.00. It is free to enter.
Cogs, Cakes & Swordsticks
Invasion of the Tripods
DAY PROGRAMME FEATURES
Please note some features are listed seperately.
Parade of Banners: 10.30 Castle.
Colour parties from steampunk
organisations and societies parading with an escort from the 3rd Foot &
Mouth.
Coglings Meet: 10.30 Assembly Rooms, Oval Room. (AROR) If you are a
parent with young coglings this is a chance to meet other steampunks in the
same airship to share ideas, experiences and just socialise.
Event Opening: 11.00 Assembly Rooms. Main room. (ARM) The annual
introductory welcome and introduction to our contributing authors and
publishers.
Publishing, self, small or mainstream: 11.00 Assembly Rooms Tennyson
Suite (ARTS) Steampunk is a creative scene which attracts writers. How do
you get published? Is self publishing an option? What about setting up your
own publishers. With Meg Kingston, Jim Snee, Sam Stone and Jonathan
Green.
So What is Steampunk Anyway? 12:00 (ARM) A mixture of beginners
guide, 101 and discussion group.
Attaknids: 12:00 (ARTS) Remote controlled robot spiders. Perfect for
modding and designed to battle with one another. A demonstration and battles
in preparation for the first steampunk championship to be held at Camber
Sands.
The Great Brass Button Hunt: 12:00 Castle. Join in a treasure hunt with a
difference. Especially fun for coglings of all ages (even grown up ones).
Putting the Punk in Steampunk: 13:00 ARTS. Whilst steampunk may not
be punk in the 1970s sense for many people it does include an element of
rebellion and social awareness. A discussion on these aspects. With Tinker &
Andrew O'Neil.
Tango and Waltz workshop: 14:00 ARM. A regular favourite at the
Asylum. Come along to get some pointers on how to dance even if you are
not going to the ball.
Longitude Punk'd: 14:00 ARTS. 2014 the Royal Museums Greenwich will
be staging an exciting exhibition with a steampunk twist. Together with a
number of special events this will be unmissable. Learn more with
representatives from the Royal Museums.
Lady Elsie's Hysterical Dancing: 15:00 ARM. More dance and another
favourite feature. Real period dances given a rebellious twist as only Lady
Elsie knows how. Come along and give it a try.
Costume Competition: 16:00 ARM. The annual costume parade and
competition compered in his own inimitable style by Robert Rankin.
Her Majesty's Parade: 11.00 Castle. Steampunk often has a strong pseudo
military theme. The parade is for the "military" to strut their stuff and be
inspected by "Her Majesty Queen Victoria". However showing respect for
people who really serve there will be a short address and minute's silence.
(Participants please muster by 10.50)
Steampunk Fiction: 11.00 ARM Authors talking about steampunk in the
written form on page and screen. Where is it now? Where do they see it to be
going? With Toby Frost, Linzi Cooke, Raven Dane and Jonathan Green.
Writers Workshop: 11.00 AROR A smaller feature for people to talk about
ideas and how to juggle them for their own fiction/ Led by Meg Kingston.
First Tea Company Parade: 12:00 castle grounds. A formal Informal First
Tea Company Parade and Court Martial The First Tea Company will gather
for a relaxing parade in front of First Tea Lord Doctor Geof followed by
another attempted court martial of Second Tea Lord Rachel Hayward by
renowned prosecutor and Brew-Colonel Mikey Smith T.E.A. Probably.
Steampunk and fashion: 12.00 ARM Do you wear costume or clothes?
What is happening with steampunk style? Where next? A discussion led by
Lady Elsie and friends.
Gadget boxes and kits: 12:00 AROR Peter Harrow, multi medal winner at
previous Asylums talks about his gadget boxes and kits and shows off his
newest ones.
VSS Plans for 2014: 13:00 ARM Tinker's annual chat about plans for the
coming year including Steampunk at the Seaside and Asylum 2014 along with
your chance to talk about what you like and would like to see more of.
Count Rostov's Radio Play: 15.30 ARM The annual comedic presentation
by Russia's greatest steampunk comedy impressario. With a cast of well
known steampunk faces. (Good face for radio eh?)
Closing Ceremony: 16:00 ARM. The event draws to a close wih
announcement of awards and prizes and a final address and thank yous. All
over until next year (apart from the Dead Dog of course.)
ALL WEEKEND DAY FEATURES:
The Asylum Film Festival: This year's festival of films will be held at The
Collection, Dane's Terrace, Lincoln in the splendid auditorium. (There is also
an exhibition of steampunk art in the gallery too.) A fine selection of films
will be screened on the hour every hour between 11 and 3 inclusive. We are
proudly holding an audience award for best film so please take time to vote!
There is even a splendid trophy made by Mr Joe Slatter. )
www.steampunkfilmfestival.blogspot.com
The Fantastic Travelling Steampunk Yarnbomb: Westgate Academy.
The Fantastic Travelling Steampunk Yarnbomb is coming to visit the inmates
of the Asylum. This communal guerilla art project features the work of
steampunks and artists from far and wide and is growing all the time. So come
be inspired to make a piece yourself and see it as it continues to grow
WEEKEND AT THE ASYLUM 2013 PROGRAMME
FRIDAY
TIME
ASSEMBLY
ROOMS
MAIN
ROOM
ASSEMBLY
ROOMS
OTHER
10.00
Event
Control
Opens
Mad Hatter's
Tea Party
14.45
16.00
Collection
Closes
17.00
Last Line
Publishing
Book Launch
Robert
Rankin Book
Launch
(Oval Room)
18.00
21.00
21.30
VENUE,
WESTGATE,
DUKE
WILLIAM
Art Exhibition
at the
Collection.
10.30
19.00
CASTLE &
COLLECTION
Doors Open Lady Elsie's
Fashion Show
Fashion show
ends
Andrew
O'Neil +
guests and
The Men
WWNBBFN
Asylum
Debutantes
Meet
(Victoria)
Event
Control
Closes
The Major's
Soiree
The Venue
(BG)
SAT'DAY
TIME
ASSEMBLY
ROOMS
MAIN
ROOM
ASSEMBLY
ROOMS
OTHER
09.00
10.00
10.30
Assembly
Rooms Open
11.00
Event
Opening
12.00
So What is
Steampunk
Anyway?
Open for
delivery of
Exhibits
Event
Control
Opens
Coglings
Meet (Oval)
Publishing self, small or
mainstream?
(Tennyson)
14.00
15.00
Film Festival
(Collection)
Gaming
Strand (GS)
Opens
(William)
with
Dystopian
Wars
The Great
Brass Button
Hunt (Castle)
Cogs Cakes &
Swordsticks
(GS)
Dystopian
Wars &
Cogs, Cakes...
(GS)
Attaknids
(Tennyson)
Telos Book
Launches
(Oval)
12.30
13.00
CASTLE &
VENUE,
COLLECTION WESTGATE
DUKE
WILLIAM
Castle Square
Market Opens
Castle and
Westgate
Collection
Market Opens
Open
Parade of
Banners
(Castle)
Tea Duelling
Asylum
Championshi
p
Tango &
Waltz
Workshop
Putting the
Punk in
Steampunk
RMG
"Longitude
Punk'd"
Wacky Racers
(Castle)
Lady Elsie's
Hysterical
Dancing
Jema Hewitt
Book Launch
(Oval)
Last film show.
Collection
15.30
16.00
Costume
Competition
17.00
Assembly
Rooms
Close
Event
Control
Closes
Collection
Closes
Castle Closes
19.00
19.30
Gaming
Strand (GS)
and
Westgate
Close
Ulysses Dies
at Dawn
(Venue)
Doors Open
The Empire
Ball
21.30
Oh Dear
What Would
the Major
Say? (Venue)
SUNDAY ASSEMBLY
ROOMS
TIME
MAIN ROOM
ASSEMBLY
ROOMS
OTHER
10.00
10.30
Assembly
Rooms Open
Event
Control
Opens
11.00
Steampunk
Fiction
Writers
Workshop
(Oval)
11.30
Cogs, Cakes...
(GS)
Airship Races
(GS)
CASTLE &
COLLECTION
Castle and
Collection
Open
Parade of
Banners
(Castle)
Her Majesty's
Parade (Castle)
Film Festival
(Collection)
VENUE,
WESTGATE,
DUKE
WILLIAM
Westgate
Market Opens
Gaming
Strand (GS)
Opens
(William)
with Tripods
Cogs Cakes
and
Swordsticks
(GS)
12.00
Steampunk
and Fashion
12.30
13.00
14.00
VSS Plans for
2014 &
Feedback
Forum
Tea Duelling
UK
Championship
Gadget
Boxes & Kits
(Oval)
First Tea
Company
Court Martial
(castle)
Event
Control
Closes
Karl Burnett
- Book
Launch
(Oval)
Exhibits to
be collected
please.
Tripods (GS)
14.30
Cogs Cakes
and
Swordsticks
(GS)
15.00
15.30
16.00
17.00
19.45
The Illicit
Market
(Tennyson)
Bands Merch
(Oval)
Count
Rostov's
Radio Play
Closing
ceremony &
awards.
Last film show
Collection
Cogs,
Cakes... (GS)
Collection
Closes
Westgate
Market
Closes
Castle Closes
Doors Open
The Dead Dog
Party
Please Note: This timetable may be amended at any time..
ENTRIES FOR THE GREAT EXHIBITION
The Exhibits
One of the reasons for holding a steampunk convention was to allow people to
show their artwork. It is always a popular feature and 2013 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.
Since the first Asylum we have made awards for exceptional work. Work
does not have to be considered for wards unless the artist so chooses. Those
not under consideration are marked "Exhibit Only"
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 2013.
There will be certificates of commendations and rosettes in the above classes
too.
Awards will be announced and made at the closing ceremony, 4pm on
Sunday.
The Last Word...
The Asylum would not be possible without the hundreds of hours of
work that go in behind the scenes and during the event. A huge thank
you to everyone who has contributed: performers, techs, volunteers,
authors, traders, publishers, exhibitors, racers, paraders, venue staff and
of course you the participants.
Special thanks to:
Michael Armstrong (Lincoln BIG)
Bev Deakin (Bishop Grossteste University)
Patrick Forbes-Ritte (County Assembly Rooms)
Lynne Hardy (Gaming stream)
Ben Mart (Film Festival)
Will Mason (Lincoln Museums)
Maddie, Claire and Ange and the team at the Castle.
Maggie and Paul and the team at the Collection
Nigel and the team at Widow Cullen's Well
The crew team:
Sam, Leanne, Keith, Marla, Kathy, Jo, Xander
Last to mention but without whom there certainly would be no festival:
The Victorian Steampunk Society
James and Josephine Snee, Ben and Meriel Blincoe
Jackie and Trevor Wilson
If we have missed anyone then sincere apologies - blame it on fatigue.
John & Karen