Legendary NYC nightclub, Webster Hall (it used to host the original Surrealist balls with Salvador Dali) hosted the Anachronism’s Steampunk: Visit to Edo event.
The event had a fashion show, several music acts, dance, art demonstrations and even a cosplay burlesque showcase. Vendors offered handcrafted Steampunk jewelry and fashion.
Thirsty? The cocktail menu was appropriately themed, ranging from the "Tesla Coil" and "Clockwork Lotus" and an entire section devoted to Absinthe.
Of course, the ensembles were the real stars of the venue. Outfits of guests ranged from courtly Renaissance, to studious spectacled gentlemen. Corseted kimonos were popular, with many ensembles made by hand by artists and crafters themselves. My favorite of the day had to belong to Genevieve of the Goth/Steampunk band, Psyche Corporation, who co-sponsored the event. She had a fantastic outfit crafted from vintage spindles and spools.
The cosplay burlesque show was truly original, though the performances were definitely uneven. Acts were inspired by everything from Cowboy Bebop, Bioshock’s Little Sister, Dr. Van Helsing, and disturbingly (on many counts) Freddy Krueger and Hannibal Lecter. The definite favorite was the woman who based her act on the famous Japanese painting, “Fisherman’s Daughter” and ended the show with a provocative entanglement with a giant octopus…(Hentai fans anyone?)