Revision as of 01:16, 18 July 2008

NERO Avendale is a chapter of NERO International. Avendale hosts four to six events per year. Each event takes place on a campsite in Connecticut, and lasts from Friday evening until Sunday afternoon. Events are attended by between 60 and 100 players, and 10 to 30 staff members and volunteers. Players pay $75 to attend the event, during which time they play a character in the fictional kingdom of Avendale. The staff and volunteers collaborate to create an immersive, constantly evolving fantasy world. Players engage in padded sword fights with actors in monster masks and costume, collecting coins and gems as treasure. Each weekend features a plotline which unfolds as the weekend goes on. Players must find clues and use teamwork to solve the mystery and save the day.

I was a staff member at NERO Avendale from 2000 until 2008. From 2004 to 2006, I served as the lead writer and director. I developed and implemented numerous tools to ensure customer satisfaction and high repeat player rates.

During this time, I enjoyed seeing the Avendale community grow. I provided a challenging and dramatic theater for players which rewarded their teamwork and creativity. My biggest passion was creating exciting situations which players would recount for years afterwards. Some of our regular players made the drive from New Brunswick to Connecticut out of love for the story I was directing.