The world of The Gloaming is a culmination of artistry, storytelling, and years of dedication. At the heart of this fantastical realm is Johnny Fraser-Allen, whose journey from sculpting trolls for The Hobbit to crafting fey creatures for The Gloaming led to an extraordinary collaboration with the legendary Stephen Fry. This is the story of how imagination, artistry, and a touch of serendipity brought a magical world to life.
From Weta Workshop to The Gloaming
For over 17 years, Johnny Fraser-Allen worked at Weta Workshop, creating iconic designs for films like The Hobbit and The Chronicles of Narnia. But beyond the Hollywood blockbusters, his desk at Weta was a haven for personal creativity, overflowing with sculpted creatures and fantastical ideas that would later inspire The Gloaming.
During studio tours, Johnny’s workspace became a favorite stop for Weta’s VIP guests. Celebrities like Tom Cruise, David Beckham, and even Prince Charles stopped to admire his creations. But it was Stephen Fry, the world-renowned narrator and actor, who formed a lasting connection with Johnny over a shared love for storytelling and fantasy.
The Birth of The Natural History of The Gloaming
On his first visit, Stephen Fry was captivated by Johnny’s intricate sculpts and designs, sparking a conversation that led to a series of invitations and events. Over brunch and dinners with industry icons like Peter Jackson and Ian McKellen, Stephen developed a deeper appreciation for Johnny’s work.
One day, Stephen offered a proposition that left Johnny speechless: he would narrate Johnny’s fantastical creations. The collaboration began with The Natural History of The Gloaming, a David Attenborough-style guide that introduces the bizarre and whimsical creatures of this magical realm.
Drawing inspiration from Tony DiTerlizzi’s Spiderwick Field Guide and his own years of creature design, Johnny wrote vivid descriptions of each fey being, blending humor, personality, and naturalistic detail.
Stephen Fry’s Unforgettable Contribution
Stephen Fry’s dedication to the project was unparalleled. Despite his packed schedule, he recorded Johnny’s text in a professional studio at his own expense, delivering an audio narration that brought The Gloaming to life in ways Johnny could only dream of.
Hearing Stephen’s voice utter, “Johnny Fraser-Allens, The Gloaming,” was a surreal moment for Johnny—one he describes as better than any Christmas morning. This collaboration marked the beginning of The Gloaming’s journey from a sculptor’s passion project to a world waiting to be explored by adventurers everywhere.
What’s Next for The Gloaming
Now, years later, Johnny is ready to share Stephen Fry’s incredible narration with the world. With the upcoming release of The Gloaming’s Dungeons & Dragons books, fans of fantasy and tabletop role-playing can immerse themselves in a richly detailed world of fey creatures, complex lore, and unique adventures.
Here’s a sneak peek of Stephen Fry’s narration paired with Johnny’s breathtaking artwork:
🎥 [Listen Now]
Why The Gloaming is Unmissable
- Original Design: Decades of sculpting and storytelling have crafted a world like no other.
- Iconic Narration: Stephen Fry’s voice elevates the lore of The Gloaming to new heights.
- Immersive Adventures: Explore campaigns like The Evil Under Clorehaven, where danger and mystery await.
Sign Up for The Gloaming’s Kickstarter Today!
Be part of this magical journey and secure exclusive rewards by joining The Gloaming’s Kickstarter. Don’t miss the chance to experience Stephen Fry’s narration, Johnny’s incredible artistry, and a world that will captivate your imagination.
👉 [Sign up now for early access and exclusive perks].
The Gloaming is more than a game—it’s a testament to the power of storytelling, artistry, and collaboration. With Johnny Fraser-Allen’s visionary designs and Stephen Fry’s unparalleled narration, this is a world that promises to enchant adventurers for years to come.