In light of the major Xena convention on the weekend of January 30-February 1, let us solemnly pause for a moment and reflect upon Xena, Warrior Princess.
First off, the beloved character of page and screen has "warrior princess" right after her name. Cool. Second, she wanders the countryside with her pal Gabrielle, fighting off various demons and hydras and other baddies that wish to do her -- and maybe all of civilization -- some serious damage.
There are many mythical characters she's chummy with, or is related to, or needs to unthrone or take to task over something, and the whole television series is one adventurous, thrilling romp through the mists of time. Oh, and the midriff-bearing outfits, the chakram she throws so deftly, the swords? Hello. A fan girl's (okay, and boy's) dream.
People loved it -- obsessed over it -- and still do; like "Star Trek," "Xena" is a show that can still fill up a big fan convention years after going off the air (this is actually the convention's 14th year -- impressive). And who and what will fans find at the starry convention? Ms. Xena herself, the fabulous Lucy Lawless (who is also performing two shows at the Roxy), plus Renee O'Connor (Gabrielle), and a host of actors from the series, including Hudson Leick, who played Callisto, the most delicious villainess on TV in the last few decades. In fact, Ms. Leick is leading a yoga workshop during the convention. Fantastic.
Other events during the weekend include a writers' workshop, a cabaret, a video competition, a "Xena"-based centerpiece contest, and, of course, costumes galore. We weren't joking about the breast plates. You still have yours in a back drawer somewhere, right? Better buff that baby up, pronto.
The Official Xena Convention
Friday, January 30-Sunday, February 1
Los Angeles Marriott at LAX
5855 W. Century Boulevard, Los Angeles
818-409-0960
