So here it is folks, the basic text/concept for the Hollywood bid.
We're setting the dare for Memorial day weekend 2008, since the
weather in the greater Los Angeles area is usually fantastic in May.
More info is, of course, on the bid page. But these are the basic
facts.
Hollywood has always had a reputation. Glamour, scandal and dreams of
fame and fortune draw people by the thousands every year, and they
all
want a taste of the high life. But there is a darkness that lurks
beneath the bright veneer of neon and spot lights. Murder, death,
decay, chaos and tragedy lend their voices to the cacophony of car
horns and shattered dreams. With this tradition of violence and
intrigue is it any wonder that Hollywood plays host to more than our
fair share of hauntings? Famous actors of Hollywood's golden past are
said to walk the halls of hotels they once called home, or wander the
crypts and mausoleums that now shelter their remains. Strange goings
on are re****ted in the homes of many Hollywood starlets who lost
their
lives under tragic and questionable cir***stances. It is against this
background of paranormal glamour that we set the scene for
Convergence
14.
Why Hollywood many might ask. To which we say, why the hell not? We
host some of the top bands, hold some of the best clubs, have access
to amazing shops and activities of all kinds. What's more, people
come
to Hollywood to enjoy spectacle. There are few places where a hoard
of
zombies can shamble down the street, screaming for brains, and be
nearly ignored by the locals while the tourists look for the movie
cameras and take pictures. And while many people in Hollywood would
rather drive three blocks than walk them, much of what can be seen
and
done is within walking distance. Even in pointy boots.
Hollywood Blvd and Highland Ave is the center of activity for
Hollywood proper. Grumman's Chinese theatre, the El Capitan theatre,
Ripley's Believe it or Not museum, the Guinness Records museum,
shopping, trans****tation hubs, restaurants, and people watching all
converge at this intersection. And we have chosen a hotel right in
the
middle of it all. The Renaissance Hollywood Hotel, located on
Highland
Ave at Hollywood Blvd, is a center of star studded activity
throughout
the year. Movie stars, Rock stars, and all the beautiful people of
Hollywood come through their doors. They host some of the top Oscar
night parties and movie premier events. This is good news for us
because, unlike other cities where we are out of place, here we are
part of the tapestry that is Hollywood.
For three days and three nights, the Renaissance will be our home.
They have graciously offered us Salons 1 and 2 of the Grand Ballroom,
overlooking the terrace. A patio attached to the Ballroom will allow
for clove breaks between merchants without having to leave the
vending
area. They are providing us with space for an art gallery, workshops/
panels, and potentially a 24 hour lounge space. We are negotiating
with them to allow us to have the rooms directly above this lounge
space, so that we can have activities/djs there without disturbing
other hotel occupants. Additionally, they have offered us rooms at
$179.00 per night. As opposed to the $250.00 per night for standard
rooms. And there rooms are beautiful, with a sort of mid-century op-
art feel. Very Hollywood, very lush, very sleek. And less than two
blocks from the Venue.
The world famous Knitting Factory offers more than just a space for
bands to play. With three rooms, each having their own stage and bar,
we have the op****tunity to create three separate venues in one
building. Don't like the band? Go into the front bar and vibe to the
DJ or watch a belly dancing troop undulate with exquisite precision.
Not your thing? Step into the lounge and mellow out to a concert
harpist or just chat. Each space is separated by two sets of double
doors allowing for sound insulation without completely disconnecting
you from the rest of the event. And we plan to take advantage of this
separation to the fullest extent possible. Each room will have its
own
sound, each one different, and every night a new series of events,
bands, performances, and delights. One night you might be watching a
classic industrial band on stage, step into the front bar and see a
fire spinning show, or wander into the lounge and hear a string
quartet.
But the evening's festivities are just a fraction of the planned
activities. Haunted Hollywood tours is excited to lead us into the
heart of darkness that forms some of Hollywood's paranormal activity
and general spookiness. A s=E9ance is planned during the weekend, to
see
if we can stir up some of the local spirits. Monster movie make-up
cl***** will be available, as well as other spooky, crafty, witty or
just amusing workshops and panels. Classic events such as the meet
and
greet, clothing swap, fa****on show, modal/photographer meet-up and
shopping trip are planned. And this year we offer, not the same
boring
tea, but a charity picnic lunch on the grounds of Hollywood Forever
Cemetery. Complete with hearse trans****tation and finger sandwiches.
All this and more are offered. You just have to show up.
firefey
see more at
http://www.myspace.com/convergence14
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