[4][8] Strider created the event as he wished to experience a masquerade in the style of 1980s fantasy films, namely Labyrinth, The Dark Crystal and Legend.

[4][8] After being held in various U.S. cities including New Orleans, Santa Monica and Hollywood,[10] the ball eventually moved permanently to Los Angeles and expanded into a two-day event.

[4] In 2003 Brian Froud, the conceptual designer of Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal, took interest in the event and suggested Strider use his writing ideas to expand on the story and its universe, offering his knowledge of ancient faerie lore and Arthurian legend.

[4] Since 2003, the ball has developed a linear storyline which is built upon each year, with the story written by Strider and presented by Sypher Arts Studio, a team of sculptors, puppeteers, costumers, choreographers, performers and make-up artists.

[4] Beyond the principal inspirations of Labyrinth and Venetian masquerades, further influences of the ball have included Celtic faerie and goblin folklore and Norse mythology, along with fantasy literature such as A Midsummer Night's Dream and The Lord of the Rings.