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Workshop Descriptions
Learn a bit about what you can learn about!
Workshops from Years Past
You can read about the offerings from recent years in the Participants' Guide for that year. These guides are in printer-friendly PDF format.
Each year at Fantasia Fair, there are a great many interesting seminars and workshops. Below will be descriptions
of the offerings as they become available. Workshop description are found also in the Participants' Guide, which is published in advance of the Fair each September.
Dainna Cicotello
Not all men and women act like the Venus and Mars stereotypes. This workshop explores the differences between sex and gender-based behaviors, and lays a foundation for understanding the other people around you at work, at home and at play.
Come explore things which are keeping you from being accepted as a woman, and which are even often irritating to those around you if you are otherwise transgendered. It takes much more than charm school to be a woman…
You will leave with a mental toolbox of ideas to help your interactions with other people to be successful.
Rev. Barbara Peronteau
By sharing how her faith and life intertwine with one another, Rev. Peronteau will show how it is possible to be transgender as well as a person of faith. We do not need to give up our faith to be trans, nor do we need to stop being trans to be people of faith. We can be whole, integrated, and authentic trans people and still retain our faith and spirituality.
Natasha Savoy
An intimate sharing of the joys and power of transformation with makeup. This workshop will cover basic makeup techniques, focusing on M to F transition issues. There will be discussion about color theory, product reviews, tips to solve particular problems and how to create day and glamour looks. Included will be demonstrations with attendees and plenty of time to take questions and provide suggestions.
Chalice Charpentier
Family nurture from a daughter's perspective. Is gender transition the loss of a parent or the initiation of a more truthful, loving and open relationship with your child? A daughter speaks about her journey through both the initial discomforts and joys of having a father that doesn't always identify as a man. “There is no sure method to family health and happiness. It is an art. The end result may look different from one another, but we can inspire each other to start painting and make it our own.”
Leslie Fabien
Leslie has been married to David (a M.D in Massachusetts) for twenty years and is now married to Deborah. Deborah emerged full-time in October, 2011 and has continued practicing medicine in a small Massachusetts city where she's been readily accepted. This is a story of a shared journey and is the subject of Leslie's recent book, which Leslie considers to be a love story. She will share what the process has been like for her, as well as reading from her book. The experiential portion of the workshop will be centered on taking a look at your own relationship(s), as well as your expectations, beliefs, biases, assumptions…whatever gets in the way of your being a loving person. Leslie believes that multiple adversities from her own life have rendered her capable of flexibility and acceptance beyond the norm. She hopes to assist others in opening their minds and hearts to a world of differences among us.
Rev. Sarah Carpenter
A brief overview of what it means to be a gender dysphoric child, with a look at the obstacles these children face in their struggles to gain acceptance by society in the face of bullying and rejection. A copy of the presentation outline will be provided along with a resource list and hand-outs for friends, advocates, and parents.
John Warrener
Techniques using corsetry and Hip/butt padding to acquire the most feminine shape. The session will also teach the participants the basics of corsetry including how to corset and the most appropriate styles for flattering the body. We will also discuss the latest advances in breast forms.
Sandra S. Cole
Coming to Fantasia Fair alone can be joyous and fabulous, a time to be with old friends, to play, to learn and to explore and meet new friends. It can also be a time for lots of thoughts and feelings about the partners left at home, how we feel about being alone in this remarkable place, wondering what they are doing, thinking and feeling about all of this. Join with others in private discussions to explore these issues: how does this happen? And how does this work? ...being here perhaps with a friend, but not with my partner?
Holly Boswell
How often do you get to sit down with your very own transgender kindred spirits and share on a deeply emotional and spiritual level? Beyond the mechanics of passing and the politics of gender, we have a need to find our real personal strength within a supportive spiritual community. We will hold "sacred space" for you to come and explore this aspect of your path in a very safe and loving environment. Let's conclude by reviewing our progress, and giving thanks for our blessings.
Sandra S. Cole
Do we really understand the uniqueness of each others' journey in this amazing partnership we have together? Do we really listen, and do we really care to learn about our partner's perspective and experiences? How do we communicate? Who sets the "rules?" Is there life beyond transgender... together? What do I do with all these feelings I have? Can I be myself and also be authentic withy my partner? Share with us for honest and compassionate discussions about our special selves.
Dr. Jeffrey H. Spiegel
Dr. Spiegel will review the goals and methods of facial feminization surgery. Post-operative photos will be shown. There will be a discussion of what procedures are available, how to maximize results, risks, and how new technologies and advances have allowed for improving structural changes to bone. S ince 2004, Dr. Spiegel has performed well over 600 FFS procedures! Dr. Spiegel is happy to answer any questions and will be
providing complimentary consultations for any interested guests. Contact us at 617-566-3223.
Holly Boswell
Come see another some of the community's brightest new talents, both professional and amateur in this charity fund-raising cabaret show.
Come join your friends for one last meal and say goodbye until next year.
Liz Winter & Robyn Bazlen-Weglarz
Once again, Fantasia Fair is proud to present their annual Fashion Show. Participation is open to all fairgoers but only to those who can handle the glowing admiration of the crowd. Remember to sign up as a fashion show participant real early – we've time and space for only so many of you beautiful models. Signing up takes place Monday afternoon in the Paramount Room of the Crown & Anchor.
Robyn Bazlen-Weglarz & Liz Winter
This is a required rehearsal for all participants.
Dr. James Thomas
Feminization Laryngoplasty (FemLar) is a type of vocal cord (laryngeal) surgery designed to obtain a more feminine sounding voice in the male to female transgender patient. Several types of procedures target the frequency or pitch of the resting speaking voice to some degree. Feminization Laryngoplasty changes the pitch as well as some of the resonance characteristics of the speaking voice by changing the configuration of the vocal tract and not just the vocal cords themselves. Vocal cord tuning performed with a KTP Laser will be discussed.
Video and audio recordings of normal vocal cords, as well as recordings of patient voices undergoing the various procedures, should offer the audience a better understanding of the voice as well as a better comparison of the results of these procedures than numbers alone do.
Feminization Laryngoplasty will also be compared with CricoThryoid Approximation (CTA), which is designed to place the voice into a permanent
falsetto.
The annual Fantasia Fair Gala Awards Banquet is the highlight of the week! Show off your finest threads in this black-tie affair and congratulate this year's award winners.
Dr. Mark DiStefano
This workshop will discuss the approach to hair restoration in transgender individuals. It will include male and female hairlines design. Types of restoration as well as medical and surgical treatments.
Dainna Cicotello
Hormone management can be a very difficult experience for the male-to-female TG/TS individual! There can be great physical and emotional discomfort caused by hormone imbalances, for some people even before supplemental hormone management programs actually begin! What do you do when the most highly recommended hormone regimens bring more discomfort than taking no supplemental hormones at all? While many of the trans web sites push a one-size-fits-all hormone regimen model, in real life things are not so simple. And results are not so predictable.
This workshop will help you to understand how to get the best results possible from your transition hormone regimen.
Kevin Poling
Satori World Medical's Global Transgender Program offers individuals access to a high quality network of US and international hospitals and highly trained gender reassignment surgeons, at significant cost savings of up to 30-50% on surgical procedures. Satori provides all travel and related services to make this transition as stress free as possible. Satori has contracted with the top gender reassignment surgeons around the world, such as Dr. Preecha in Bangkok, Thailand and Dr. Brassard in Montreal, Canada. In the United States Satori works with Dr. Beck, feminization plastic surgeon, in San Mateo, California. This workshop provides a step-by-step guide on the requirements for GRS, available options, what to look for when researching hospitals and doctors, hospital and doctor highlights, GRS costs and savings, passport guidelines and what to expect when traveling for GRS surgery. For more information please go to www.SatoriTG.com
Sandra S. Cole
Everyday partnering, parenting, loving, creating together can become an amazing journey with our partners. It's time to talk unedited, unfiltered and collectively about Facts, Fantasies and Fables. We will listen to the harmonizing strength from the voices of FFABs (Fabulous Females at Birth!). Come join with us!
Sandra Samon
This discussion will focus on attendee visions of the future and what the ideal future would look like in terms of services from the viewpoint of a transgender person, a therapist and medical professional. For example, what does the medical profession need to understand better and how could their services improve relative to the transgender community. What signs of hope for a better future are seen and what can individuals do to make things better, even if they are not activists.
Maureen Osborne
What does being the partner of a transgender person mean about you? How has it changed you? What have you learned? What are the losses and what are the gains? How does this fact fit into the larger frame of your individual life story?
Franco Catania
Franco Catania, owner and the creative artist behind "Art To Die For", a local Provincetown jewelry shop, will host 2 different jewelry making workshops (on Tues. and Thurs. afternoon). The size is limited to 10 attendees. Attendees will be provided a jewelry making starter kit (at cost) and actually create their own piece of jewelry art. Just imagine, you'll wear your own creation and who knows, maybe this will be the start of something bigger. Signup at registration.
Paddy Aldridge
All ages – stripping can be fun and a great way to relax. The stripper poses and moves subtly and provocatively in ways that are decidedly feminine if not vampish. Stocking acts are a good way to exercise on one hand, and a good way to tantalize your mate or soon to be mate on the other. People who take this workshop have a lot of fun and loosen up. They learn poses that are wonderful for photographs. This workshop was presented at Fantasia Fair 12 years ago and it was well attended and everyone graduated with flying colors. You can too! You will need to bring a bra, garter belt, stockings and high heels. Some people wear these items on top of an exercise body suit so they are never undressing down to nothing. Some people wear beautiful matching lingerie under a pretty dress and they are hot to trot! Whatever you decide will be completely acceptable – I want you to be comfortable and have fun! I will be videotaping this workshop for posterity – do not worry, the camera will be on me! You identity remains a secret!
Maureen Osborne
Whatever the state or stage of your relationship, there are special challenges in a cis/trans relationship that require self-examination, fearless and mutually respectful dialogue, and negotiation. We will look at some principles and strategies that should ease the way.
Michael Silverman
Let's talk about the Legal Landscape and have a Q & A session
Maureen Osborne
In this workshop for couples only, we will give ourselves the time and space to meet fellow travelers, and tell our stories in a safe and supportive environment. Intended for first timers as well as couples who have been coming to Fain Fair for years.
Swing by to grab something to eat before the show.
Melissa Cross & Phyllis Randt
Phyllis from NH, Nycii from Mass & Melissa from Ct. will talk about their experiences in the real world. Each will share a bit about their journey and then focus on things like buying women's clothes in person (in drab and en femme), experiences getting manicures, restaurant experiences and other public places in public that we have gone dressed..
Chrissy Sue McCarty
This is a relaxed, safe space to come to connect with others who are attending the Fair for the first time. Come share a coffee and talk about how to get the most out of your time at Fantasia Fair. If you have questions, we have answers! These sessions are for first-time Trans folk only. We do this to avoid self-censorship, and out of respect for the privacy of those who are not accompanied by their spouses.
- Meet new friends
- Share experiences
- Gather information
- Gain support
Jennifer M. Barge
This workshop is geared towards those who have grown out their own hair and are finding issues with adapting it from "boy- mode" to "femme mode” or just having concerns about what to do with their new hair. Jennifer will go over styling options, speak on how to create new and fun looks in minutes as well how to use curling irons, hot-rollers and simple styles that are easy to do and look stylish. Jennifer does offer a complimentary consultation at the end of the class for each person which is great for the everyday girl or the recreational dresser... and all partners are welcome to be a part of the learning.
In this late morning get-together, you'll have a chance to mingle with your new friends and find out what you can expect during the week. We'll point out who is responsible for what, where to get the latest information, and talk about the various happenings of the week.
Even if you registered in advance, you still need to check in! This is just like having to check in with a hotel even though you booked a room in advance.
During check-in, you'll get a packet of goodies which will include a printed copy of the Participant's Guide, the first issue of our daily newsletter, Fantasia Fair Gazette, an identification badge, and the tickets you'll need to gain entrance to the many events that take place during the week. Also, you will be asked to select which restaurants you want for lunches and dinner choices for the banquets. For information about registration and the check-in process, please take a look at our Registration and Check-in page.
Even if you registered in advance, you still need to check in! This is just like having to check in with a hotel even though you booked a room in advance.
During check-in, you'll get a packet of goodies which will include a printed copy of the Participant's Guide, the first issue of our daily newsletter, Fantasia Fair Gazette, an identification badge, and the tickets you'll need to gain entrance to the many events that take place during the week. Also, you will be asked to select which restaurants you want for lunches and dinner choices for the banquets. For information about registration and the check-in process, please take a look at our Registration and Check-in page.
Jennifer M. Barge
Jennifer has taught this new class across the country with great feedback. “Makeup is not covering up who you are, it is enhancing the true you” says Jennifer. And this make up lesson demonstrates just that. Presented on a live model that is chosen out of the crowd, Jennifer explains the “what and why” of the professional techniques she uses. This is a fun and informative workshop that empowers every type of woman from the occasional dresser to the full time girl. This class will encourage you to be realistic with the outcome of makeup, become more independent by learning how to do your own make up and also how to tap into the beauty within without covering up or masking yourself. This is a must see workshop! Jennifer will also offer complimentary make up consultations after the class on a one on one basis. Wives, partners and S.O.'s are welcome!!
Rev. Cameron Partridge
Sgt. Carrie Lopes & Officer Rachel Peters
The Provincetown Police Department will discuss safety tips including what you should and shouldn't have in your wallet or purse, learning to be more aware, what your answering machine message should be and many more practical options. Also included will be a selection from a locally produced hate crime documentary.
Paddy Aldridge & John Warrener
The owners of 2 well known TG oriented business will discuss how they sell to the TG community and how to trust things you purchase on the Internet will be what you want. (Paddy owns Wildside in Toronto and John owns Glamour Boutique in Mass.)
Maureen Osborne
Now we're feeling a bit more comfortable with each other - let's dig in deeper. Intimacy, trust, and finances are a few of the major issues facing couples of all kinds. With a trans partner, there are some interesting new twists, and here's a safe place to talk about them.
Carolyn Caywood
This popular meet-and-greet is back! If you are the "significant other" of a transgendered person attending the Fair, you are cordially invited to join the other "SOs" for a Dutch-Treat lunch. Get to know each other, share experiences, swap advice... You may just find out that you all share a lot more in common than you think!
Danya Walker
The Pivotal Transformation workshop will allow the participants to explore various processes for transitioning on the job. Dayna will explain how her technique and process is unique and offers those wishing to explore transitioning in the workplace with several options, including gathering allies, determining obstacles, introducing potential training programs and dealing with organizational leadership as well as peers. Dayna's process allows the individual to control many aspects of the transitioning process often left to the organization and thus empowers the individual as they seek to transition in the workplace. In today's depressed job market, this is a “must do” workshop for anyone planning on transitioning in the workplace.
Sandra S. Cole
Relationship balance is not a static point, always predictable and permanent. It is the fluid rhythm and motion of love, wisdom, respect and equilibrium between soul mates.
Honest and awakening discussions around the challenges within our relationships enhance the rich and sacred experiences of loving someone who loves you. We welcome your presence with us.
Sandra S. Cole
A symphony of words, thoughts and feelings emerge, reflecting enormous creativity, strength and capabilities in us all to embrace the exceptional qualities of each partner in their marriage, intimacies, relationships and families. Our gifts of stories, wisdom and respect for each other celebrate our amazing lives and love.
Every year, Real Life Experiences honors transgender leaders - those who have sacrificed their careers, their families, their fortunes to change the world so transgendered people could begin to come together in safety and comfort. Without them, we would not be here; we would be at home, hiding in our closets. We meet to honor their work and thank them for all they have done for us and to give them back a little in return for their decades of work on our behalf. This year, we are recognizing Mara Keisling.
Sandra S. Cole
For the gals who have questions, are curious, have had challenging experiences, embarrassments "out there", and for gals who have figured it out and can share!!!
Come and have a fun conversation, sharing ideas, recommendations and solutions to some of the 'woman's way' life situations "mother never taught you"! Initiation into the secrets of behavior, decorum and movement known only to women.
- Strut Your Stuff - the other side of the "runway walk."
- Bunny Dip vs Comfy
- Dining with the Ladies
- The "Loo"
- And whatever else we want to discuss
Rev. Cameron Partridge & Barbara Curry
Rev. Cameron Partridge, Rev. Barbara Peronteau, Rev. Jamie Ghee and Rev. Donna Cartwright will participate in a panel about Transgender and Religion moderated by Barbara Curry
Jennifer Levi & M. Dru Levasseur
Leading legal experts will talk about navigating discriminatory family law systems for transgender people including creating, dissolving, and expanding families.
Amanda Ryan
In the past three years, I have taken a lead role in promoting the Trans Community to the Canadian Public and Politicians. Flag Raising Ceremonies at Ottawa Police Headquarters led to other Flag Raising Ceremonies at Ottawa and Gatineau City Halls along with excellent media attention. I led a March to Parliament Hill to support the Gender Identity Bill which passed Parliament but died in the Senate when an election was called. That specific bill has been reintroduced in the current Parliament as well as a similar Bill in the Ontario Legislature. Exciting things are happening in the Trans Community and I have been proud to be in the middle of it so this talk is really about transactivism.
Emily Sheldon
Find out about opportunities to volunteer during the week in this brief get-together.
Michael Silverman
The discussion will focus on legal strategies for moving a transgender equal rights agenda forward. From employment discrimination to educational and health care access, the legal landscape is shifting. There's progress which has been made over the past years, but there is much more to be done. How can we use the law as a tool to ensure that we will one day be free?
After a long day of travel, relax with your old friends and meet your new ones. Come dressed formally, come dressed casually, come dressed as a guy or come dressed as a gal - just come by and enjoy yourself!
Polly Vitagliano
Not all wigs are equal! In this workshop we will discuss Human Hair vs. Synthetic Wigs, Cap Constructions, Sizing, choosing a color, what styles are best for your face shape and maintenance.
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