Drag and video games return with SlayStation: The Crystal Ball
It’s hard to believe that it’s only been 6 months since SlayStation brought video game and drag realness to the Clapham Grand, but it really has been. More importantly, ever since the event has been well-received by fans, from gamers to cosplayers and to everything else in between. And now SlayStation is back with its brand-new event, The Crystal Ball. The event will take place at the Clapham Grand in London, UK.
Last time at the Master Ball, hosts Velvet Caveat and Loose Willis celebrated all things Pokemon with Kim Chi and Dakota Schiffer from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Thanks to the event’s incredible performances and costume competitions, it amassed over a million views on TikTok. This time around, however, SlayStation is looking to go even bigger than before.
Returning this August 5th, SlayStation: The Crystal Ball celebrates Final Fantasy — as well as high-fantasy in gaming – alongside Joe Black from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 2, and Hey, Baby from Season 4. They will also be joined by some of the voice actors behind the latest game, Final Fantasy XVI. The event is a one-night-only show, and will feature themed performances, games, and just like in previous events, an audience costume competition. Those who win will earn a bundle fit for a hero of light, including a copy of Final Fantasy XVI.
Ben Starr, the voice actor behind the main protagonist of Final Fantasy XVI, Clive Rosfield, will also be making an appearance. He spoke out about appearing during Slaystation, stating that Final Fantasy has been an “intrinsic” part of his identity for “well- over two decades” and he is honoured to be able to push the franchise forward with Clive. He also commented about the event itself, saying, “to me, SlayStation is the perfect celebration of what Final Fantasy can be. Fun, fantastical, joyous, and daring. I’m so thrilled to be a part of it. It’s going to be an unforgettable evening.”
Starr will also be joined by fellow voice actors from the game, such as David Menkin (Barnabas Tharmr) and Nina Yndis (Benedikta Harman). All of them will be judging the costume competition with Joe and Black and Hey, Baby.
Velvet Caveat, creator and producer of SlayStation and one of the show’s hosts, said, “I can’t wait to level up on our Master Ball with our biggest event yet featuring a stellar cast who will do the series proud. The response we’ve received after our past events from attendees and viewers online has been fantastic and you can see the passion everyone has in their intricate costumes alone. It just shows the importance of this niche and having these spaces for nerds of all backgrounds. As a trans woman gaming helped me express my identity and have agency over who I am.”
Tickets and further information about SlayStation: The Crystal Ball can be found on the Clapham Grand official website and/or via Dice.
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