The lighter side of the Fanatics Plaza

IK Debating is a fascinating activity unique to the LOTR Plaza. Teams are formed of kingdom members, who debate Tolkien related questions against teams from other kingdoms. It is truly a war of words, and one of the most intense experience the Plaza offers. The topics assigned range from the seemingly rather simple - Who did more for the fellowship, Merry or Pippin, to the erudite - Which had a greater impact on Middle Earth, magic or technology. Sometimes there is a single statement made - and the sides are assigned as proposition or opposition, supporting or opposing the statement such as: Bilbo won the riddle game by cheating. Researching answers, finding "killer quotes" in the writings of Tolkien to back up your argument, writing a compelling post, all this is at the heart of IK debate. If you love to dig under the surface, and get to the heart of the matter, then come along to the Plaza. Debate season will be starting up again soon, and we would love to have you aboard!

If you love the books of Tolkien, but think that the debate teams described above might be too intense, consider becoming a member of one of the Drill Teams instead. Drill contests are fast paced, competitive, and highly addictive. Drill masters spend hours pouring over the works of J.R.R. Tolkien to find challenging questions which are then presented to the teams, who must answer within a time limit. There is nothing better than scanning through the books, seeking an answer, and finding lots of fascinating things on the way! Unless it is the feeling of success and accomplishment when you finally hit upon the right answer! Add to this the companionship and friendship that quickly forms among team members, and you have an activity which is absolutely unique, challenging and more fun than Bejeweled...by far!

Poetry competitions? Absolutely. Tolkien treasured poetry, reading it, translating it, and writing it. Poetry plays a big role on the Plaza, up to Inter Kingdom teams who compete in writing poems to an assigned form. Cooperative poetry writing is unique. The teams work together, line by line to create some of the most moving, inspirational and beautiful verses this side of the Elven Bards in Rivendell. Recent competitions have required competitors to write on themes of Tolkien in The Interlocking Rubáiyát, The Dorsimbra and The Free verse. This is not a limerick contest! If crafting glory with words is your passion-come on over to the Plaza and see about joining our esteemed poets as they make the world a better place for all of us!

"Got a tissue?"

A what? A squizzle! Squizzles are the racing animals in Fangorn. They race against badgers, emus, lava snakes, and other creatures in week long matches which combine random dice rolls with short story writing. It's lighthearted fun, and a good chance to meet and greet members from other kingdoms. Feel like trying your luck? Come on over and sign up! See you in the winner's circle!

Thief hunts can be found in many kingdoms at almost any time. They are the good old fashioned logic game, where process of elimination will lead you to the answer. But,as with most Plaza activities, there is a Tolkien element. Instead of just listing your guesses, you get to write your own small story as the game progresses. Bonuses are given for outstanding creativity! It's fast, easy, and a jolly good time! Stop by the Plaza and see for yourself!