Area 51 warped space and time to transform a tiny part of North Wales into an intergalactic space base for sci-fi fans, geeks, fantasy fanatics and timelords alike. There was no tightening of the asteroid belt as dark energy from a galaxy of 51 performers helped Hafan y Mor holiday centre at Pwllheli become THE place to be in the universe for anyone with even the slightest interest in all things science fiction. Thousands turned up to enjoy the ninth annual Sci-Fi Weekender on the Lleyn Peninsula, which Area 51 helps to organise
A large team from Area 51’s galactic garrison of performance artists descended on Pwllheli to provide an almost non-stop feast of fantasy fun over four days and the result was unanimously declared a huge success.
The weekender featured celebrity speakers, interactive events, memorabilia displays, computer game battles, live music, film props and a cavalcade of weird and wonderful walkabout routines from stilt walking performers.
Aliens star William Hope and the much-loved Scottish actor Ken Stott, who played Balin in Peter Jackson’s big-screen adaptation of The Hobbit, were among the main attractions that also included Ross Mullan, one of the “white walkers” in the hit “Game Of Thrones.”
Film maker Spyros Melaris, who shot to infamy via his 1995 “alien autopsy” hoax film, was also one of the very special guests on show. Brit comic artist Simon Bisley was a big attraction and Level Up Leroy was one of a superb bunch of musical acts to keep everyone in the right mood.
Among the live performances was one from the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, which formed way back in 1958 to create state-of-the-art musical themes and background music by embracing technology and experimental ideas even before the introduction of synthesizers, samplers and digital music.
Darth Elvis and The Imperials were as popular as ever while Professor Elemental once again wowed audiences on stage with choreographed dance routines featuring Area 51 dancers. He also brilliantly acted as MC in tandem with 51’s Adam Colclough, who in the guise of his ‘Jimcredible’ character entertained everyone present.
There was a live adaptation of the 1980s kids show “Knightmare” while Australian comedian John Robertson brought his acclaimed comedy show “The Dark Room” to life on stage to enormous acclaim once more. The cream of Britain’s cosplay community were invited to attend and join in and the weekend also included puppet shows and screenings of classic films while a grand costume ball proved hugely popular on the Saturday night. Area 51’s own Intelly Gents were also performers.
Next year’s event will be the tenth anniversary of the event and ticket sales are already flying out with the 2019 SFW likely to be sold out very soon.
