Hi there, Kristina! My name is Evan, and I'm one of the new player reps for Alliance-Seattle, and happy to field your questions.
If you think of any others you'd like to ask before your first game, feel free to also send them to
newplayer@alliance-seattle.com, where they'll be received and answered by myself and Chloe Monroe. I noticed that you stated you'd like to NPC at your first game, and you'll likely have the pleasure of working with her, since she's a regular NPC for our great game, and no doubt has lots of tips to offer you, too.
Our 2014 current schedule is found here:
viewtopic.php?f=2&t=7486
The next event is April 4 - 7th, at Millersylvania State Park ELC. Most of our events run Friday - Sunday, but this is a long weekend that runs to Monday. You aren't obligated to stay the entire event if you aren't able to, of course.
Alliance-Seattle doesn't really have officially scheduled meetups or anything like that, though sometimes players are happy to meet up with interested potential players to help explain things.
Advice! There is much. First, I've LARPed for about 13 years, and I've had the pleasure of meeting many people in this unique hobby of ours. The Alliance community is exceptionally welcoming, and while you're likely to be overwhelmed at first, we'll never embarrass you for it. We're a goofy, crazy group of people who want to have fun, and we want you to have fun, too.
If you NPC, bring black clothes you can be mobile in, lots of socks, and footwear that'll stand up to some abuse. It can be muddy and wet in places, and you'll want good support and traction. We have a pretty decently priced food plan that NPCs can buy into, so you won't even have to pack food. You'll be provided with all props/weapons you'll need, as well.
Also, check us out on our FB page (look for Alliance Seattle).
Let us know if you have any other questions, we're happy to help!