Festival celebrates steampunk
OAMARU’S Steampunk Festival is on again at Queen’s Birthday weekend, with a variety of entertainment, talent, and art — all spanning four days.
Steampunks from around New Zealand and overseas will gather for the annual event, held in the historic precinct of Oamaru from June 1 to June 4.
The festival, in its eighth year, is the largest and longestrunning festival of its kind in the southern hemisphere, and it is a celebration of the art and creativity of steampunk.
‘‘It is about how Victorians viewed the future — a world of time machines, steam power, and mysterious creatures,’’ festival organiser Helen Jansen said. ‘‘But most of all it is about invention, adventure, and discovery.’’
A highlight of the festival this year is the Splendid Teapot Racing — a chance to take on all comers with your rolling teapot. The event includes a slalom, obstacles and drag racing plus best dressed and best tea cosy. This fantastic event is held on Sunday June 4 from 2pm to 4pm at the Oamaru Club, 32 Severn St.
Another highlight is the Steampunk NZ Moments in Time Fashion Show — a series of tiny theatre pieces. These 90second episodes depict a character in its own steampunk world, complete with costumes and props. The best moments win! This event will be MC’d by the fantastically funny entertainer Jackie Clarke.
For most, the festival begins with the Oamaru Fire and Steam Festival in the streets and venues of the historic precinct on the night of Friday June 2. This event includes food, masquerade, music and entertainment.
Festivalgoers often move on from there to an evening of vaudeville at the Loan and Merc venue in Harbour St from 9pm. The show, MC’d again by Jackie Clarke, will include performances by members of the steampunk community itself, and is R18.
Other events include a steampunk talent quest, writing workshop, teaduelling, book and beer launch, art exhibition, gala ball, markets and much more. For more information on the events and booking
links, visit www.Steampunknz.co.nz