Researching My Freak Nation

[divalion]

Some questions for all y'all my beloved gentle freaks: be you nerds/geeks of any stripe, gamers, Rennies, goths, steampunk, kinky, poly, Pagan or other "alternative" spirituality, trans, queer, bi/gay/les, burner, spinner...you get my drift

Comments

[keller]

1) This last year shouldn't really count- as I haven't really gone to anything much (except Renn Faire). However in previous years I went to anime cons of all types (Otakon, Katsucon, etc.), Renn Faire yearly and Magfest (gaming.) I also used to attend a whole bunch of fetish/kink/bdsm club nights or parties that I will not specifically disclose, but will give a mention to Black Rose's stuff as it was ever classy. I also attend a number of theater shows (mostly musical), from small local to large Kennedy Center. On a busy year I'd say I'd attend events 2-3 times a month, so I guess 24-36 a year?

2) Well the anime conventions could be anything from $35 a weekend to $75, most cons actually... club nights or private events ran from $5-50. I did seek out volunteer activities both as emergency medical help (I'm qualified) or as a door person. I do typically spend extra money for either food/beverages and goodies depending on the event. Shopping especially if I can swing it.

3) Community, hands down. Well. I guess live performances and interactive activities are pretty huge too. Cons always have things you can actively participate in (especially love panels etc).

4) Distance is usually number one. Cost is number two. The types of people there/lack of activities is probably nmber three. Lack of organization at an event will absolutely kill it for me if it then has a negative impact on the con/event goes (longer waits, higher costs, missing out on advertised stuff, etc.)

As for live events-- I want them to be safe- number one. Well lit, have security, absolute opacity (is that a word?) well maintained, etc. Cost cannot be unreasonable for what you're "getting." $5-10 dollars for a local show-- reasonable. $60 dollars for a weekend at Otakon (dealer room, panels, live shows, concerts and video rooms) reasonable. $30 dollars for a small local event? Unreasonable. I don't want the event to be *too* crowded. Everyone has been to a concert where there isn't enough room to breath. This is not pleasant. I want the event to be entertaining or educational. I want my money's worth.

Guess that's about it.