Words by Jenny Rangel
More than 14 years after its finale, Buffy the Vampire Slayer brought fans from across Tampa Bay to witness The Florida Björkestra’s tribute to “Once More, With Feeling,” the musical episode that hit a high note with fans.
The Florida Björkestra is a 20-piece ensemble that pays tribute to various pop and rock bands from David Bowie to, you guessed it, Björk. About a year ago the same group decided to tackle Joss Whedon’s cult classic, Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The 2001 Musical episode “Once More, With Feeling” had been something that Whedon had always wanted to do and though many were skeptical (including some of the Buffy cast), the episode was wildly successful.
The Björkestra took on this challenge with enthusiasm and brought hundreds of rabid Buffy fans together for Buffyfest on September 23. The Palladium in St Pete was transformed into a world of Buffy, bringing vendors to their very own Magic Box (Giles, and later Anya’s, magic shop) and setting the stage for the show in The Bronze (the popular hangout where the Scooby Gang went to see the many bands that came through the series). Yes, it is odd that teens could hang out a bar after class, but hey that was the 90s.
Vendors gathered with creative artwork, including religious themed candles featuring characters from the show and colorful portraits by Björkestra member Spencer Meyers. Actor James C. Leary, who portrayed the lovable kitten eating demon Clem in the final two seasons, was in house taking pictures and signing autographs. Cosplayers Erica Melisandre (Buffy), Christian Wingate (Spike), Amanda Short (Faith) Ashley Bray (Willow) Matthew DeFoor and Justin Grubb (Vampires) were also on hand, posing for pictures throughout the evening.
Buffy The Vampire Slayer, which aired on The WB and later, UPN, was known for bringing popular as well as lesser known bands on the show. The main event brought The Björkestra on stage to perform covers of many of these musicians that were featured throughout Buffy’s seven season run, including Aimee Mann (who was the only musician to have a line on the show) and Angie Hart. It also covered songs from Sarah McLachlan, K’s Choice, The Sundays and of course, the theme song by Nerf Herder. Vocalists then came out in character to act out the episode’s full score, including a fun little dance bit from Spencer Meyers (Xander) and Tania Enriquez (Anya).
The after party at Iberian Rooster offered Buffyfest themed cocktails, more great Buffy music and a chance to mingle with fellow fans.
A fun night was had by all, as Buffy fans got to meet up and relive one of their all time favorite BVTS episodes. You can learn more about The Florida Björkestra and their upcoming events at floridabjorkestra.com.
