Euchronia

As we head to the end of the year the question of "what are you doing for new years eve?" are cropping up. This year I will put down the rockabilly clothing and embrace my goth/steampunk side; which means I will be heading to Euchronia. What on earth is Euchronia you may ask, well its a steampunk / neo-Victorian Year's End Ball held in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Euchronia first took place in 2008 and will return to amaze and astound again on the 31^st of December, 2010. The event will open for general admission at 9pm and proceedings will continue 'til the early hours of the following morning.

But firstly let me explain a little about what Steampunk is. Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction, alternate history and speculative fiction. Specifically, steampunk involves an era or world where steam power is still widely used—usually the 19th century and often Victorian era Britain —that incorporates prominent elements of either science fiction or fantasy. Works of steampunk often feature anachronistic technology or futuristic innovations as Victorians may have envisioned them; in other words, based on a Victorian perspective on fashion, culture, architectural style, art etc. This technology may include such fictional machines as those found in the works of H.G Wells and Jules Verne or real technologies like the computer but developed earlier in an alternate history.

The venue for 2010 is a breathtakingly grand former power station only very recently re-purposed as an events venue:The Substation, Newport. The building features a perfect blend of history and modern facilities to delight both neo-Victorian enthusiasts and discerning event-goers of every stripe.

Euchronia, from the Greek eu (good) and chronos (time), promises a fine evening of musical and terpsichorean pursuits: a good time for all! Euchronia 2010 will feature three main sound-spaces and a number of additional niche spaces, each with a different musical focus. The main stage in the huge Central Hall will host bands, live cabaret-style acts and some DJ'ed music. The Mezzanine floor above will comprise a dedicated dance space featuring a mix of new romantic, gothic fusion, industrial, retro, futuristic, electro and EBM music to keep the dance-obsessed euphoric until the wee small hours. Finally, our Parlour will be a designated relaxation space with a more ambient and laid-back soundscape. In addition Euchronia 2010 introduces a Member's Lounge for the exclusive use of Antipodean League members throughout the evening.

Dress Code: neoVictorian, steampunk, formal black tie/white tie/ballgown, pirate punk, Edwardian, vintage 20's & 30's, fetish, dieselpunk, goth! Think Moulin Rouge, League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, The Golden Compass, Oliver Twist, Sweeney Todd, plus anything and everything in between. (The "code" is not strictly enforced, but guests in jeans and tshirt might feel out of place.