A crowd of incensed con-goers rallied Friday night in the lobby of the Hyatt to protest a recent influx of “fairy tale creatures.” Inspired by the 2001 film Shrek, the group chanted anti-ogre mantras and called for the expulsion of fairy tale creatures from convention grounds. 

The organizer of the event, Tessa Eftimiades, carried a latex ogre head at the front of the procession, sending a clear message to fairy tale folk that they were not welcome. Others carried signs and called bystanders to join their cause.

Prior to the event, an ogre was rumored to be making an appearance, terrifying marchers. According to those who have encountered him, the ogre’s fearsomeness is amplified by his sicky green complexion and gruff Scottish accent. The ogre did not show his face, and the march proceeded without issue.

The group of approximately 20 marched through the inter-hotel skybridges, starting from the Hyatt elevator bank and finishing in the Hilton lobby. As the group proceeded through the skybridges, numerous people joined the march and even more paused to document the momentous historical event taking place. Participants paused periodically to hear impassioned speeches from Lord Farquaad, self-proclaimed leader of the group. Lord Farquaad stressed that humanity would triumph over fantasy species. 

This is the second year that Eftimiades has hosted this “angry mob march.” In August 2022, it occurred to her that this sort of event was something that might resonate with Dragon Con’s attendees. Medieval townsfolk, cosplayers, and laymen alike assembled, inspired by her message.  

Said Eftimiades: “I wanted to make a group where you didn’t need a costume to join. I remember times I wanted to join groups, but didn’t have the right costume or was just dressed normally. So I wanted to make a group that includes everyone.”

Future marches may be planned if the fairy tale creature infestation continues. In the meantime, Eftimiades is hosting an ogre call contest in a bid to identify covert ogres.