AS THE WORLD FALLS DOWN REVIEW – Magical San Francisco Masquerade

Spread the love

AS THE WORLD FALLS DOWN – a magical Labyrinth inspired Masquerade held forth at The Chapel, in San Francisco this past Saturday night, Sept 8. In our troubling social times of today, Rabbit Quinn had been watching lots of favorite old movies reliving happier times and memories. Inspired by one of her favorite classic films, The Labyrinth, she inquired of her friend and co-conspirator Containher as to how they might sally forth with an event to lift everyone’s spirits and allow happy memories to return.

 

They decided to create a Masquerade Ball that “Jareth” would have thrown in his castle, and to bring all the unusual and beautiful artist they knew so well, to entertain their guest. Invitations and Notices went out, and within a fortnight the Event was sold out, only 400 of their closest friends would be allowed to attend, and entertainers were gathered. As I learned the names of the performers I knew this was going to be a special event, and indeed the night did not disappoint.

  

 

Rabbit Quinn is a San Francisco-based pianist, vocalist and songwriter whom I’d met at previous Edwardian Balls. She crafts otherworldly fables reminiscent of unconventional piano rock storytellers such as Kate Bush, Nina Simone, and Tori Amos. History, myth and literature transform Quinn’s footprints into compositions which are delicate, dark and romantic. Quinn’s voice is exceptional in range and tonality as well as her virtuosity on the piano. She was gorgeous with an ethereal glow about her and sat behind the grand white piano throughout her performance. My only complaint is that she did not step out so I could see all of her Gorgeousness!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kat Robichaud – of Misfit Cabaret and the Voice, performed many favorites including two lovely original songs, including my personal favorite Criminal and Chilly Down. The first time I heard Criminal, I had chills running up and down my spine. You can also check out my previous Article here in SPLASH MAGS, to see what Misfit Cabaret is all about. Kat Robichard’s performance was nothing short of Spectacular. Kat will bring Misfit Cabaret back to San Francisco, then Seattle this October. Its an awesome show, and I’ll be there for sure.

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Containher, is April Gee and her amazing 11 piece band. So many talented players including Vernian, Don Martin, Rachel Larson, Kristin Leigh Fjeldheim, Ricky Rasura, Mao Noise, Roman Kogan, Alan Chen, Freddie Vega.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other noted performers include: Sophia Santulli – Aerialist. I got one of my best shots of the night by laying on the floor underneath Sophia as she climbed up, then fell towards me. I really like that capture. Unwoman, Singer-Songwriter, Cellist, Looper and Patreon star. Unwoman is also a big part of the Misfit Cabaret as well as a regular at the Edwardian Balls. Lauren Baines, an award winning choreographer and dancer, whom I got some very “artsy” shots of by the way. Tsunami Soulshifter, a most amazing human, dancer and talented costumer.

  

The Speciality Acts included Shadow Circus Creature Theatre. Beautiful handcrafted puppets by Dave Haaz-Baroque. Charlie Gray, is a third generation costumer and Rabbit Quinn credit’s him as helping her pick all her clothes. Lysol Tony Romeo was the handsome and funny Goblin King.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rounding out Rabbit Quinn’s band were Ben Lee on Bass, Ricky Carter on drums, and Whitney Moses on backing vocals. Vernian on guitar also sat in with the band last minute and he was great.

It is always a delight for me to photograph the people in the crowd, the people who made the event possible by attending. This group of performers have a unique community of followers, as was testimony to the quick sell out of the event. Everyone’s costumes were amazing and I love shooting candid images of as many people as I can. So many beautiful, unique, and creative people it was so much fun.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rabbit Quinn, Containher & Paradox Media produced the event. Samantha Verbeck, stage manager, and Victoria Victrola, who handled decorations along with Francesca Sapien who did tarot readings for guests in the upstairs mezzanine.  I certainly hope this will become a regular event, it will be fun to watch it grow and evolve.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sponsors for the one-night event included: Dark Garden Unique Corsetry who provided the exquisite corsets for performers. JL Imagination brought in chandeliers and provided the gorgeous set lighting along with Asiel Designs providing lovely decorations for the tables. Dr. Hops provided tasty Kombucha Beer for all to enjoy. Miss Velvet Cream created Rabbit Quinn’s beautiful dress. Paradox Media, Justin Katz & Devyn Madsen were instrumental in making sure the event happened.

I’ve covered events at The Chapel before and it is a unique venue for the right events. It was an actual Chapel, now converted to a club, with 40 foot high arched ceiling. A bar and mezzanine upstairs afford great views of the stage as well. The staff is always courteous and helpful and I enjoy going there. I parked on the street a block away with easy access. My only request regarding the venue would be to improve the stage lighting. It was dark often, making it not only difficult to photograph, but also to see the performers. But Hey, I’m a photographer, I always complain about the lighting.

Connect with me, Greg Autry,  on Facebook  Facebook.com/GregAutryPhotoTwitter  @CGAGreg,  and Instagram   gregautry.cga . There are always more pictures!

 

*All Photos by Greg Autry @gregautry.cga  ©2018GregAutry ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 

About Greg Autry 52 Articles
Greg is a Photographer and Writer specializing in Fashion, Art, and Editorials. He covers Luxury Brands for Splash Magazine including: Fashion Shows, Fine Art, Charities, Stage Performance, Travel, and all manner of Events. Promoters and Producers ask for Greg specifically and repeatedly because his Articles and Photography are the highest of quality and are often picked up in National Media. Greg is also available Freelance for assignment. Writer - Magazine Articles and upcoming Bio-Novel about artist Julian Ritter. Photographer - Commercial Fashion and Editorial Photography. Artist - Oil Painter

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*