The Final Schedule can be found below with panels listed in alphabetical order.
Please see 2016 Panelist Schedule for a list of panelists and their panels in alphabetical order.
Looking forward to seeing everyone and enjoying a great convention!
2016 Convention map:
2016 Panels
Age Appropriate Reading: Too Young, Too Old
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Sam Knight, J.A. Campbell
We’ll discuss two sides of the same coin: in today’s market there is YA literature that many consider to have topics beyond a YA audience (Hunger Games, Twilight) while there are others who consider adults who read YA to be reading fiction well below what they should be reading. What’s the judgement and why should we care?
Anansi – Trickster God and Story Teller
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Kings Landing
Aaron Spriggs, Richard Friesen
Are all writers Anansi incarnate? Anansi is an African god who gives the world all the stories to tell. Writers are telling stories, ergo, are writers extensions of Anansi? Are writers tricksters telling us stories, releasing stories into the world for all to enjoy?
Ask a Paranormal Investigator
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Helms Deep
Bryan and Baxter
Here is your chance to ask the guys with over 25 years of experience any and all questions about paranormal investigation. With Bryan and Baxter from the Rocky Mountain Paranormal Research Society.
Author Readings (15 min each)
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Nevernever
Jeffrey Cook, Richard Friesen, Van Aaron Hughes
Avatar: The Last Airbender Interactive Session with Experts
Friday, 5:00 PM-6:20 PM, McAnallys Pub
Sifu Kisu, Sifu Manny
Discussion and demonstrations of the various forms of martial arts used in Avatar: The Last Airbender. An interactive experience where Sifu Kisu and Sifu Manny will demonstrate and explain some of the differences between the forms used on the show, including tai chi, Hung Gar and Chu Gar, Northern Shaolin, and Ba Gua. Questions welcome!
Avatar: The Last Airbender Performance and Teaching
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, McAnallys Pub
Sifu Kisu, Sifu Manny
Join Sifu Kisu and Sifu Manny, who worked on Avatar: The Last Airbender, as they demonstrate some of the martial arts forms used for the show. They will also instruct during this panel and answer questions.
Better Halves: Spotlighting the Sidekicks
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Serenity
Travis Heermann, Emily Godhand, Lou J Berger, Mike Cervantes
Who are some of the best sidekicks and why do they work so well? What is the role of the sidekick in a story; how to you write them well, give them their moments to shine without upstaging the protagonist, and does a sidekick reflect or augment the protagonist?
Blanket Forts (adult session)
Saturday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, The Shire
Blankets, coloring books, crayons, and stuffed animals. Wind down the night, make a fort and relax. Adults and calm teens only please.
Blanket Forts (adult session)
Friday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, McAnallys Pub
Blankets, coloring books, crayons, and stuffed animals. Wind down the night, make a fort and relax. Adults and calm teens only please.
Blanket Forts (all ages)
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Kings Landing
Remember how much fun it was to make forts in the livingroom with couch cushions? Let’s do it again! This time we’ll be using blankets and tables to take us on our imagination journey to the ocean or stars – wherever we want to go!
Body Image and Science Fiction & Fantasy
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Nevernever
Kimberly Kennedy, Mike Cervantes, Veronica Calisto
Delve into body image and how Science Fiction and Fantasy have paved the way and also hindered progress. From people of size to people of color, the crew will discuss the past, present and future of body image in film and television.
Book and Media Tie-Ins
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Catherine Winters, Jacob Mayfield, Keith DeCandido, Quincy J. Allen, Sam Knight
Authors sometimes get to play in other peoples’ sandboxes. Discussion about the freedom and restrictions of being inside someone else’s boundaries in books and other media.
Building and Cultivating Your Creative Community
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Helms Deep
Kathryn Renta, J.A. Campbell, Stant Litore, Tawny Fritz
By finding the right people to surround yourself with, your creative opportunities multiply exponentially and in unexpected ways. Our panelists will talk about the act of finding your community and explain how it has benefited them and their careers.
Building the Perfect Plot
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Lawrence, KS
Lou J Berger, Richard Friesen
Have you ever wanted to write a great story with a killer plot? Come join a panel of authors and learn how they compose a plot. We’ll discuss the Hero’s Journey and other tropes, and teach you the necessary parts for a great story!
Catastrophic Seasonal Climates in Game of Thrones
Saturday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Serenity
Stephanie Slater
If “winter is coming” just when will it arrive? How does the maestre know how to predict the seasons and how long they will last. Modern science knows, do you?
Chainmaille 101
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Serenity
Billy Van Ark
This hands-on class will walk you through the basics of making chainmaille (a.k.a. maille). We’ll cover the tools of the trade (pliers, rings, and patterns), and learn how to make a simple piece of maille that you’ll take home with you!
Chainmaille 101
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Gallifrey
Billy Van Ark
This hands-on class will walk you through the basics of making chainmaille (a.k.a. maille). We’ll cover the tools of the trade (pliers, rings, and patterns), and learn how to make a simple piece of maille that you’ll take home with you!
Character Focused Storytelling
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Helms Deep
Lou J Berger, Jim Butcher, Paul Lell
Theme, action, plot, or character driven; what do these mean, and what does character focused storytelling look like?
Characters Are Who, Not What
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Kings Landing
Emily Godhand, LJ Hachmeister, Richard Friesen, Scott Beckman
Our panelists will discuss creating multidimensional characters who are more than just LGBT, but fully realized individuals. How to go beyond a basic archetype to create characters that your readers will cry with, cheer for and love.
Chewie, We’re Home: Sequels and Remakes
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Kings Landing
Ian Brazee-Cannon, Pamela Nihiser, Paul Lell
Can sequels/remakes ever be as good as the original? From Avengers to Star Trek to Star Wars we’ve been let down over and over again. What does it take to supersede the original?
Closing Ceremonies
Sunday, 4:00 PM-4:30 PM, McAnallys Pub
Jim Butcher, Nikki Ebright, Nissa LaFete, Peri Charlifu, S. J. Tucker, Sean Patrick Fannon, The Doubleclicks, Tomas O’Dreams
Come recap the weekend, relive the highlights, hear a few closing words from some of our guests, and say goodbye for another.
Color In
Friday, 9:00 PM-11:00 PM, Atrium
Join fellow con-goers for a coloring session in the atrium. Bring papers to color and items to color with or use what’s available. Enjoy some quiet coloring time after a long busy day.
Commission Work: Designing Others’ Visions
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Lawrence, KS
Kathryn Renta, Sarin Tatroe, Stace Johnson, Tawny Fritz
Why is it so hard to design for someone else’s vision? Why have some of us given up on commission work all together?
Coping with Character Deaths
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Grey Havens YA
Do you watch movies and TV shows, or read books, comics, etc, only to have your heart ripped out when your favorite character DIES? If so, then this panel is for you! We will discuss theories behind why we think our faves die, potential tropes between them, and have the opportunity to share our feelings around people who get it. Bring your own tissues.
Corsets Q&A: Tightlacing, Waist Training, and Myths
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Kings Landing
Kitty Krell, Cynthia Settje
This panel will answer any and all questions regarding corsets, materials, fit, construction, what to look for when buying, as well as addressing common myths.
Costume Contest
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, McAnallys Pub
Erin Card, Jan Scott-Frazier
Join host Erin Card as entrants show off their fabulous and creative costumes and are judged by our panel of special guests.
Costuming 101
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, The Shire
Erin Card, Ian Brazee-Cannon, Kitty Krell, Tonya L. De Marco
How do you get into costuming and cosplay? What you need to know to decide which cosplay to make, how to research for the project, how to find or make wigs, props, clothing, armor, etc, and finally, how to take care of yourself and others while in costume. Great for beginners and those in a rut that need a little push back into the hobby!
Creating a Writing System
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Kings Landing
J.A. Campbell, Lou J Berger, Sam Knight
Very few authors have the luxury of strictly writing. Those starting out will definitely need supplemental income. Discover ways to establish a writing life that works for your lifestyle.
Creating Multi-Cultural Steampunk Characters
Friday, 5:00 PM-6:20 PM, Kings Landing
Aaron Spriggs, Carolyn Kay, Chaz Kemp, Ian Thomas Healy
Brainstorm a steampunk character that steps outside the normal upper-class British box. Audience participation is welcomed.
Creating the Anti-Hero
Friday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Helms Deep
Eneasz Brodski, Richard Friesen, Richard Malena
Discussion group on creating anti-heroes, dark vigilantes, and others with super powers. Aged for 18+
Critique Groups: Care and Feeding Without Getting Your Hand Bitten
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Christopher Katava, J.A. Campbell, Stace Johnson
Many (most?) established authors will recommend “the right” critique group for aspiring writers. What are some of the things to look for and pitfalls to avoid? Be wary and be wise by knowing how to get yourself into the right company.
Crossplay & Genderbending: The Art of Cross-Gender Costuming
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Erin Card, Tonya L. De Marco
How do you approach a cosplay when the character you love is a different gender or sex? Come join our discussion on reasons and techniques for manipulating your own body, or the character’s look to fit yours.
DDAL 4-12/4-13, Played together during the 4 hour time block
Saturday, 7:00 PM-11:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
DDAL04-12 The Raven Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 2 Hours The Bloodhand orcs have a prisoner that may hold the answers to the strange goings on and the key to stopping the enemy. Now you just have to convince them to hand the prisoner over. Part twelve of Misty Fortunes and Absent Hearts. DDAL04-13 The Horseman Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 2 Hours The unexpected ally imparts the secret you have been searching for and now only one more puppet remains before you can finally face the enemy. Unfortunately your allies begin to pay the price for your interference in the enemy’s plans. Part thirteen of Misty Fortunes and Absent Hearts.
DDAL 4-8/4-9 Played together during the 4 hour time block
Friday, 7:00 PM-11:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
DDAL04-08 The Broken One Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 2 Hour Conditions continue to worsen in the village of Orașnou. Winter has still not released its icy grip, despite the late season and the villagers are beginning to starve. When fingers point to a local simpleton as the cause of the town’s misfortunes, you are called into action. Part eight of Misty Fortunes and Absent Hearts. DDAL04-09 The Tempter Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 2 hours A map provides a tantalizing solution for the woes of Orașnou if heroes could be called on to follow it. Part nine of Misty Fortunes and Absent Hearts.
DDAL04-10 The Artifact
Saturday, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 Hours An expedition to the Amber Temple reveals another major minion of the enemy and uncovers a secret weapon that may help defeat them. Part ten of Misty Fortunes and Absent Hearts.
DDAL04-11 The Donjon
Saturday, 2:00 PM-6:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 Hours The village of Orașnou is panicked when a group of Bloodhand orcs appear at the edge of the woods. They bring news and an unusual request that reveals a new foe. Part eleven of Misty Fortunes and Absent Hearts.
DDAL04-14 The Dark Lord
Sunday, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 Hours The enemy is revealed, but time is short and if you are not successful in your mission to Mount Baratok, love will never die. Part fourteen and the finale of Misty Fortunes and Absent Hearts.
DDAL04-14 The Dark Lord
Sunday, 2:00 PM-6:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 Hours The enemy is revealed, but time is short and if you are not successful in your mission to Mount Baratok, love will never die. Part fourteen and the finale of Misty Fortunes and Absent Hearts.
DDEX 03-16 Assault on Maerimydra
Saturday, 2:00 PM-12:00 AM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 3 (Levels 11-16), 8 hour (have 10 hours to play) 2PM to Midnight The time has come for the brave and the bold to put an end to the machinations of Maerimydra’s demonic occupiers and their fiendish fire giant ruler. This will be no mean feat; the city is a cesspit of corruption and madness. You will have help, however, as an unlikely group of allies have gathered to your side in the Underdark beneath Faerûn. Danger, glory, and redemption await those brave enough to seize it.
DDEX 3-5/3-6 Played together during the 4 hour time block
Sunday, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
DDEX03-05 Bane of the Tradeways Tier 1 (Levels 1-4), 2 hours Times are hard in the Hillsfar countryside, especially for those of non-human ancestry. Unscrupulous merchants in league with the hated Red Plumes bleed local farmers and artisans dry. Perhaps some of those loot-laden caravans coming and going from Hillsfar could use a bit of liberation? DDEX03-06 No Foolish Matter Tier 1 (Levels 1-4), 2 hours Some of the hamlets outlying Hillsfar have been struck by an odd malady. Rumor has it a traveling carnival visited those hamlets before the disease struck. Does coincidence not equal causation or is something sinister afoot?
DDEX03-03 The Occupation of Szith Morcane
Friday, 7:00 PM-11:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 Hour Agents of the fire giants of Maerimydra, a city in the Underdark, have overtaken the drow outpost of Szith Morcane. The factions seek out adventurers to free the outpost’s leaders for questioning on the giants’ activities. Can you extricate them before it’s too late?
DDEX03-07 Herald of the Moon
Saturday, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 hours, Elanil Elassidil, an elf bard of no small legacy, has put out a call for trustworthy agents. It is time, it seems, for a quietly hidden piece of elven history to become known to the world. Meira Faerenduil, lost knight of Myth Drannor, has been discovered, and must be brought back to civilization.
DDEX03-08 The Malady of Elventree
Sunday, 2:00 PM-6:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 Hours An escaped duergar slave stumbles into the village of Elventree. With her she brings a malady that grips the small settlement in a bout of madness that seems unshakable. Can the characters find the source of the madness and save themselves and the village’s inhabitants?
DDEX1-1 Defiance in Phlan
Friday, 7:00 PM-12:00 AM, 221B Baker Street
Levels 1-2, 5 Mini adventures, 1 hour each, totaling 5 Hours. The Cult of the Dragon has come to Phlan, a lawless refuge on the Moonsea. Now, with no significant authority to stop the cult, other power groups in the Realms – the Harpers, Order of the Gauntlet, Emerald Enclave, Lords’ Alliance, and even the Zhentarim – must unite to stop the cult from fulfilling its dark purpose in the city. Join the fight by participating in any one of five different missions aimed at stopping the cult.
DDEX1-10 Tyranny in Phlan
Saturday, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 Hours The Maimed Virulence has come. The future of the Cinnabar Throne and the lives of the denizens of Phlan are in jeopardy. The Cult of the Dragon rejoices, and the Black Fist is powerless to stop them. How will the factions of the city respond to this threat? Can Phlan be saved this time? Part One of Under Emerald Claws. A four-hour adventure for levels 5-10.
DDEX1-11 Dark Pyramid of Sorcerer’s Isle
Saturday, 2:00 PM-12:00 AM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 8 Hours ( 10 hours to play, 2PM to midnight) Long unoccupied, the pyramid on Sorcerer’s Isle now flows with strange magical energy, warping creatures and the landscape around it. The Cult of the Dragon and Red Wizards of Thay have taken notice, and it’s up to you to keep whatever power dwells there out of their hands. An adventure for 5th-10th level characters.
DDEX1-12 Raiders of the Twilight Marsh
Sunday, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 Hours A black dragon’s treasure horde has been located in the Twilight Marsh, and within it are secrets that hold interest to the factions. With the dragon marauding over the countryside, the horde is left unguarded. Now is the time to plunder its lair! An adventure for 5th-10th level characters.
DDEX1-13 Pool of Radiance Resurgent
Sunday, 2:00 PM-6:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 Hours Vorgansharax rules Phlan, using the Cult of the Dragon to extend his noxious gaze. But the green dragon seeks far more than control of the beleaguered town – ultimate power is nearly within reach. Will he reactivate the Pool of Radiance and ascend to greater prominence amongst his kind? Part Two of Under Emerald Claws. An adventure for 5th-10th level characters.
DDEX1-2 Secrets of Sokol Keep
Saturday, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 1 (Levels 1-4), 4 Hours Decades have passed since Sokol Keep was reclaimed, and a small garrison placed there along with a beacon to help guide ships. Now, that beacon has gone dark, and the garrison has disappeared. In Phlan, rumors circulate that something ancient was discovered in the grounds beneath the keep, dating to before the clerics of Tyr built the small fortress. Uncover the secrets of Sokol Keep!
DDEX1-3 Shadow on the Moonsea
Saturday, 2:00 PM-6:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 1 (Levels 1-4), 4 Hours Life on the Moonsea isn’t easy. Bandits, pirates, and cruel lords dominate the land, threatening those who make an honest living there. Now, a new scourge is prowling the waters: A ghost ship has been striking small coastal villages, leaving its victims whispering about the “eye of the dracolich.” Join the adventure and learn the truth behind this threat!
DDEX1-4 Dues for the Dead
Saturday, 7:00 PM-11:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 1 (Levels 1-4), 4 Hours For years, the Most Solemn Order of the Silent Shroud has tended the dead at Valinghen graveyard, providing them a peaceful eternal rest. Now, that rest has been disturbed by a necromancer seeking out a key to re-activate the Pool of Radiance. A four-hour adventure for levels 1-4.
DDEX1-5 The Courting of Fire
Sunday, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 1 (Levels 1-4), 4 Hours An exiled cultist and his kobold minions are spotted searching long-forgotten ruins in the Dragonspire Mountains. Rumors say he looks for a precious gift to give to a fearsome dragon that dwells there. What he hopes to attain with his gift is unknown, but can’t be good for the citizens of Phlan. A four-hour adventure for levels 1-4.
DDEX1-6 The Scroll Thief
Sunday, 2:00 PM-6:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 1 (Levels 1-4), 4 Hours Scholars Square is a relatively quiet corner of Phlan, but a series of odd thefts have the headmasters of various schools in the area concerned. The headmasters’ pleas for help have gone unanswered by the Black Fist, and the Lord Sage of Phlan decides to reach out to you and your kind to bring those responsible to justice. A four-hour adventure for levels 1-4.
DDEX1-8 Tales Trees Tell
Friday, 7:00 PM-11:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 1 (Levels 1-4), 4 Hours Despite the shaky alliance that exists with the elves of the Quivering Forest, they do not suffer trespass in their realm lightly, especially from common folk from nearby Phlan. A woodworker’s recent blunder into the forest might set off a diplomatic incident. Can you help find him and mollify the aggravated elves? A four-hour adventure for levels 1-4.
DDEX2-14 The Sword of Selfaril
Sunday, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 hours The fabled sword of Selfaril is told to bestow wisdom and power upon whomever wields it, so naturally its discovery has caused quite a stir in Mulmaster. All of this is complicated when a masked benefactor claims to not only know the truth about the blade, but also how it can be used to benefit the oppressed people of Mulmaster. Can it truly
DDEX2-16 Boltsmelter’s Book
Sunday, 2:00 PM-6:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 1 (Levels 1-4), 4 Hours A dwarven expedition has stopped in Mulmaster for much-needed supplies. Furgis Boltsmelter, their founder and leader, is looking for some “no questions asked” protection for the duration of his stay in the city. Whatever he is trying to protect may not stay hidden for long. Can you keep his secret treasure out of the wrong hands?
DDEX2-4 Mayhem in the Earthspur Mines
Friday, 7:00 PM-11:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 4 Hours Riddled with veins of precious ore and gem, the Earthspur Mountains to the west have long been a valuable resource for anyone able to mine them. One such mine has gone silent and the only thing more concerning than its long overdue shipment is the fate of the members of the Soldiery sent to discover what has happened to the mine’s workers. Though the mine lay in a region of the Mountains once claimed by a clan of reclusive dwarves, the Ludwakazar clan wouldn’t be so bold as to violate their long-standing peace with Mulmaster. Or would they?
DDEX2-7 Bounty in the Bog
Saturday, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 1 (Levels 1-4), 4 Hours The Soldiery has grown weary of dealing with a particularly nettlesome band of miscreants who have holed up in the Flooded Forest to the south. And so, you have been called upon to quell their activities so that trade along the North Road can resume unmolested. However, in so doing, the truth behind their activities reveal that much more than simple banditry is at hand. Will you be able to stop it?
DDEX2-9 Eye of the Tempest
Saturday, 2:00 PM-12:00 AM, 221B Baker Street
Tier 2 (Levels 5-10), 8 Hours, (10 hours to play, 2pm to Midnight) A storm of unparalleled fury has been ravaging the peaks of the Earthspur Mountains for a tenday, and the Monastery of the Yellow Rose sits in its eye for now. Some monks have fled the monastery to the safety of Mulmaster and beseech you to convince their more obstinate brothers to retreat to the city before the eye of the storm shifts, and the monestary is in terrible danger. Can you brave the elements and convince the monks to escape?
Describing Sex in YA Literature: Where is the Line?
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Kings Landing
Courtney Farrell, Richard Friesen
Sexuality is an important part of being an adolescent. YA stories are filled with love, sexual tension and even sex at time. How should an author approach sex in their stories?
Discussing Combat in Science Fiction & Fantasy
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Kings Landing
Ian Brazee-Cannon, Ian Thomas Healy, Jason Evans, Jim Butcher
The good, the bad, and the ugly scenes of combat and action in Science Fiction and Fantasy, including the differences between games, movies, and literature. Also a discussion of the morality and emotional impact both upon the audience and the characters involved.
Diversity in Fandom
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Kings Landing
Chaz Kemp, Paul Lell, Tonya L. De Marco
Diversity is a buzzword, but what does it mean practically? How do shows like Supernatural, Doctor Who, and Firefly work toward greater representation?
Do You Know Harry Potter?: The Audience Quiz Bowl Game
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Gallifrey
Max Slater
It has been 15 years since we first met Harry Potter at 4 Privet Drive in Little Whinging, Surrey. Come test your memory about Harry’s friends, adventures, and toolkit of spells in this family-friendly, game-show format.
Doctor Who Discussion
Saturday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Ian Brazee-Cannon
Who’s your favorite Who; are we overdue for a female Who; and what do you think of Peter Capaldi?
Draw Off (Art Track)
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, The Shire
Tawny Fritz
Artists are given a prompt from the audience and a time limit to draw their quick masterpiece. Ready, set, go!
Dresden Files Theories
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Serenity
Carolyn Kay, Chaz Kemp
Who is Mac? Is there more than just a will in Harry’s safe deposit box? With all the things Harry has learned so far, what is his final resolution?
Electronics in Costumes & Props
Saturday, 12:00 PM-1:50 PM, McAnallys Pub
Erin Card
If you’re ready to take your costume or prop to the next level of awesomeness; adding lights, sounds, or moving parts will put you there and beyond. Come see some of the incredible possibilities of costume electronics and the hows and wheres of getting started on your own projects!
Epic Rap Battles of Literature!
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Helms Deep
Cam Peters, Jason Evans, Thomas A. Fowler
Two teams go head to head in a rap battle where the topics are Harry Potter, Harry Dresden, Lord of the Rings, and more. Fight!
Establish Your Brand
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Kings Landing
Thomas A. Fowler, Peri Charlifu, Scott Beckman
Creating a brand can be one of the most difficult, yet crucial, steps. What marketing steps do you have to take to truly establish a brand? Learn how to research the market, develop a strategy, and most importantly, create an actionable advertising plan.
Ethics and Art
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Lawrence, KS
Kathryn Renta, Sarin Tatroe, Tawny Fritz
How do ethics affect the artist? Talk about different ideas and situation, including pricing, copyright, stealing ideas, borrowing themes, payment, taxes, and how we treat each other!
Faery Treasure Bag – Collection Prizes
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Serenity
Nissa LaFete, Tomas O’Dreams
Time to find out which treasures the Faeries treasure the most! Bring your Faerie Treasures and turn in your collections to win prizes!
Fan Art: From Parody to Plagiarism
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Kings Landing
Chaz Kemp, Jim Humble, Sarin Tatroe
Imitation is the highest form of flattery, and many new artists carve out their skills by emulating their idols. We’ll discuss what’s fair game and what’s not.
Feeding the Beast
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Paul Lell, Quincy J. Allen
Creating stories involves a lot of time seeing possibilities when you’re not writing, drawing or working on your craft. Where do find ideas and how to you collect and refine ideas for story-telling
Future of Kaiju
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Lawrence, KS
Thomas A. Fowler, Aaron Michael Ritchey
Godzilla, Gamera, King Kong are all returning and the consensus is: Let them fight. What has made us curious about Kaiju and giant monsters again? How has Godzilla endured over 60 years onscreen? Audience members are encouraged to provide their hopes for the future of movie monsters, and concerns for the upcoming installments.
Game Of Thrones: The TV Show Beyond the Books
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Helms Deep
Jacob Mayfield, Tawny Fritz, Van Aaron Hughes
While TV show creaters say they’re still following major plot points from GRRM, they’ve deviated and condensed a lot. A general, audience-involved discussion by GoT lovers for GoT lovers to gossip about where the books and the series are heading.
Games and Fandom Tie Ins
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Nevernever
Sean Patrick Fannon
More and more people are doing Kickstarters to fund the next brilliant game idea. Discuss game and module design, game mechanics, GMing, and media tie-in writing.
Geek Crafts
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, The Shire
Billy Van Ark
The panelists discuss what geeky crafts they have made and how they made them, like Jayne hats, stuffed TARDISes, and chainmaille shirts. Please bring things you’ve made to share with everyone!
Gender Challenges and Tropes
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Serenity
Tawny Fritz
People of all genders have always enjoyed fandom, but books, movies, and video games have not always been representative. What have we learned and what can we improve on? What are the solutions for Cons and media venues alike?
Gentle Suggestion: A Thoughtful Art Critique
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Nevernever
Jim Humble, Peri Charlifu
Come in for a rare opportunity to have your work critiqued in a safe and encouraging environment. No charge, but space is limited. Afterward artists are encouraged to hang around the art show and shmooze!
Get’r done: Fighting the Day Job
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Helms Deep
J.A. Campbell, Kal Spriggs, Kimberly Kennedy
How do writers and artists do it? The running joke about being starving artists isn’t a joke. Finding time to write/do art and still have a day job, family, and manage working to pay the bills while creating your art.
GMing 101
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, The Shire
Sean Patrick Fannon
Do you want to run a roleplaying game? Does that book of rules just look too intimidating or is the pressure of being on the spot more than you can handle? Are you a player who wants to know what really goes on behind the GM screen when the snacks have run out and the players have gone home? Come learn more about being a GM.
God Made the Devil Too: Villians
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Ian Brazee-Cannon, Mike Cervantes, Pamela Nihiser, Richard Malena
What would Star Wars be without Darth Vader, Superman without Lex Luthor? What would Who be without its cast of baddies? A good villain is vital to an interesting conflict. The more evil and nefarious, the better!
Going Down the Research Rabbit Hole
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Helms Deep
Lou J Berger, Quincy J. Allen, Travis Heermann
Researching for a story or novel can be a Wonderland rabbit hole with no bottom. New writers often ask, How much research is enough? When should I stop? Should I stop at all?
Going with the Flow
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Kings Landing
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Amity Green
Finding inspiration and balancing your job as a writer with your mundane job. Finding time to write when you have a family.
Gosh Darn Fiasco!
Saturday, 3:00 PM-5:00 PM, McAnallys Pub
Jim Butcher, Richard Malena, The Doubleclicks
Come watch Aubrey and Angela of The Doubleclicks (2016’s Musical Guests of Honor) play the crazy RPG game of Fiasco with a few other special guests. They’ll bring Richard to host; all you need to do is watch!
Great women authors of the past.
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, The Shire
Kathryn Renta, Keith DeCandido, Van Aaron Hughes
Our panelists will delve into the past for great female authors, some you may know and love and some who may be new to you.
Greatest Godzilla Movie
Friday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Helms Deep
Thomas A. Fowler, Aaron Michael Ritchey, Kathryn Renta
32 will enter, 1 will win. Since 1954, Godzilla has adorned movie theaters and endured the longest living franchise in cinema history. So which one deserves the accolade of being the greatest Godzilla of all time? Is it impossible to top Gojira, the movie that began it all? Or do the more elaborate entries with classic monsters like King Ghidorah, Mothra, and Rodan deserve the throne?
Grey Havens YA on Youth in Fandom Culture
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Grey Havens YA
The self-proclaimed young geeks and nerds of Grey Havens YA meet once a week to discuss young adult science fiction and fantasy, to work on creative projects and to talk about what it is like growing up around muggles. Meet the group’s founders and charter members. Find out what it is like to be a bright young nerd joining forces with other bright young nerds to harness the power of fandom!
Grimm After Dark
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Nissa LaFete, Tomas O’Dreams
Liam Bootzin and Yvonne Larson present the darker side of fairytales. The early works of the Brothers Grimm often illustrate the harshness of life and how not all the endings are happy. Pg-13 Parental Guidance Suggested.
Harry vs Harry Debate
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Kings Landing
Brian Ziman
Potter versus Dresden, a debate. Two teams, each willing to defend their Harry, in topics such as better sidekicks, better use of magic, worse childhood, and toughest opponent.
Heroes and Monsters: What Separates the Two?
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, The Shire
Paul Lell, Stace Johnson, Tonya L. De Marco
In modern and ancient times, there are figures who straddle the lines, being both monstrous and heroic. What separates the two; is monstrousness something characters are born to or do they have a choice; and are heroes those who are born to it or do they transcend their own monstrousness to become great.
Historical Influences on Game of Thrones
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Jason Evans
GRRM has acknowledged a relationship between GOT/ ASOIAF and the War of the Roses as well as Hadrian’s Wall, but what about Henry Tudor or the Earl of Richmond? Who is Martin’s Queen Elizabeth I? Can we deduce how the books are going to end from European history?
Hogwarts O.W.L. Astronomy Test Prep-Class
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, The Shire
Dr. Tim Slater
Astronomy is a core subject taught at Hogwarts, and if you skipped class to head over to Hogsmead, you’ll definitely need to attend this refresher test-prep class to get ready for OWLs.
Hollywood and the Comic Book Industry
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Serenity
Chaz Kemp, Mike Cervantes
Notice how many comic books are being made into movies these days? What’s up with that? It doesn’t only go one way as evidenced by the Firefly graphic novels giving fans a new way to stay in a most beloved universe.
How Much Weird Could a Weird-Western Go if a Weird Western Could Go Weird?
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Serenity
Travis Heermann, Kevin Frost, Sam Knight
Take a look at the speculative elements that go into all the flavors of weird western. What is the appeal? How much is too much?
How Not to Get Published
Saturday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, Helms Deep
Sam Knight, J.A. Campbell, Jim Butcher, Keith DeCandido
What are some of the pitfalls involved in the pursuit of a writing career; what are some of the gotchas and consequences? Authors talk about their experiences and, in some cases, how they’ve shot themselves in the foot.
How to be a Psychic
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Nevernever
Dr. Karen Stollznow
Dr. Karen Stollznow demonstrates the common techniques and tricks used by both psychics and mentalists. An interesting look at the other side of the coin.
How to Kill Your Best Friends (And Get Away With It)
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Kal Spriggs, Scott Beckman
GRRM isn’t the first to kill beloved characters, but arguably he made it fashionable. When is it appropriate to drop a piano on protagonists and their sidekicks? How can you do it so it draws your fans in instead of pushing them away?
How to Write Circular Gallifreyan
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Nevernever
Billy Van Ark
Come learn how to write like a Time Lord using the fan-created Circular Gallifreyan.
Humor in the Modern Action Story
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, The Shire
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Kal Spriggs, Mike Cervantes
From Jackie Chan and Axel Foley to the hard-hitting and explosive antics of anime, why do so many writers (and directors) mash up wise-acres and violence?
I Wrote Something! Now What?
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Lawrence, KS
Catherine Winters
Writing isn’t the only skill a writer needs in this day and age. We need to understand business, presentation, and sales. Once you’ve created that book and it’s ready to sell, how do you get the word out?
Incorporating Familiar Yet Larger than Life Characters into Fictional Worlds
Saturday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Helms Deep
Stace Johnson, Tonya L. De Marco
Writing fictional worlds means creating characters and sitations to keep the reader engaged, but where is the balance. How to incorporate larger-than-life characters that are relatable yet interesting.
Insects in Mythology
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, The Shire
Aaron Spriggs, Veronica Calisto
There are more than just scarab beetles in mythology. Lets explore other insects and critters of the outside world found in myths.
Inside Middle Earth
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, The Shire
Andrew Hallam, Brian Ziman, DeLace Munger, Joshua Sammons
Dig deep into the details of the books by JRR Tolkein, including the ever asked question about why the eagles didn’t just fly the Hobbits to Mt. Doom.
Is Digital Art Cheating?
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, The Shire
Chaz Kemp, Jim Humble, Kathryn Renta, Sarin Tatroe
The trend in art seems to be moving to the digital medium. Is push-button art cheating, or is there more to it ? Can a monkey do digital art, or does it still take skill, knowledge, and creativity?
Is It True You Always Have Story Ideas?
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Kings Landing
Sam Knight, Carolyn Kay, Kimberly Kennedy
Panelists quickly come up with story based on audience suggestions.
It Ain’t the Writing, It’s the Rewriting: The Power of Revision
Saturday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Kings Landing
Travis Heermann, Ian Thomas Healy, Jim Butcher
Few first drafts are gold dripped upon the page, so how do we make them so?
It’s Alive!
Friday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Kings Landing
Amity Green, Quincy J. Allen, Veronica Calisto
Bringing fantastical creatures to life in your urban fantasy story. What are some challenges, and how do you match the fantasy with the more real urban setting?
Jim Butcher Q & A
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, McAnallys Pub
Jim Butcher
Question and answer session Jim Butcher. Ask him questions, and he may or may not answer them!
Late Night Artist Chat: Audience Questions
Friday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, The Shire
Chaz Kemp, Tawny Fritz
Questions will be placed in a hat at the beginning of the chat. The moderator will chose at random from the hat for our panel to speak about. Think of some juicy questions and really make us squirm!
Learn to Love Your Writing
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Serenity
Mike Cervantes, Christopher Katava, Kevin Frost, LJ Hachmeister, Stace Johnson
Everyone is their own worst critic. Stop worrying and love your writing: a motivational panel. How to stop hesitating because you feel you work isn’t “good enough” and put words on the paper.
LGBTQ+/QUILTBAG Characters and Situations
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Emily Godhand, Jacob Mayfield, Paul Lell
How to write characters with diverse genders and sexualities (QUILTBAG/LGBTQ, etc.) that readers and viewers can connect with.
Lord of the Rings: Digging Deeper
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, The Shire
Andrew Hallam, DeLace Munger, Joshua Sammons
Discussion about various themes in LOTR such as the role of orphans, what happened to the Entwives, everpresent sadness/melancholy, anti-heroes such as Boromir and Gollum, the nature of the five Wizards/Istari, and the role of the children of Elrond.
Lord of the Rings: Myth or Mythopoetic
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, The Shire
Andrew Hallam, Stant Litore
Tolkien’s works are often referred to as modern myth, but are actually mythopoetic. Our panelists explain the difference and how Tolkien fits into each.
Mad Hatter’s Madcap Party
Friday, 8:30 PM-10:30 PM, McAnallys Pub
S. J. Tucker
Don your finest, oddest, or favorite apparel for this year’s Mad Hatter’s Madcap Party while SJ Tucker courts and cajoles you with her evocative original music.
Magical Abilities in Fiction: Fact or Fiction
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Helms Deep
Christopher Katava, Paul Lell, Veronica Calisto
A discussion concerning various fantasy fiction, and the reality of the magical abilities presented, such as crystal ball readings, tarot, and magical wands.
Make a Broomstick Pencil Make-and-Take
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Nevernever
Learn how to make your own pencil-sized broomstick in this hands-on session. (Materials provided)
Make a Wizard Wand, staff, blasting rod, etc (Make-and-Take)
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Nevernever
Make your own wizard wand, short staff or blasting rod. No cost; materials provided. (Magic not included.)
Make your own Psychic Paper
Friday, 5:30 PM-6:20 PM, Nevernever
Come and make your own psychic paper in the style of Doctor Who. It works for The Doctor, maybe it’ll work for you? No cost; materials provided.
Making Heroines Even Better
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Kings Landing
Carolyn Kay, Emily Godhand
Jupiter Rising, Mad Max: Fury Road, and the new Ghostbusters. What did they get right and how they could have been done better.
Marketing for Writers
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Serenity
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Kimberly Kennedy, Stace Johnson
Don’t publishers handle all that marketing mumbo jumbo? In this booming era of indie authors, hybrids, and small presses, what does it take to get your name out there? How does a writer market him or herself?
Meditation
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Gallifrey
Jan Scott-Frazier
Qualm your inner Dementors, take off your protection rings, and pour some mental salt around your mind. Start your morning off with a gentle meditation led by the awesome Jan Scott-Frazier. Everyone welcome.
Merging Steampunk and Fantasy
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Helms Deep
Carolyn Kay, Chaz Kemp, Jim Butcher, Quincy J. Allen
A discussion on laying the ground work for creating a believable world using the elements of both Steampunk and fantasy.
Mixed Genre Authors and Writing
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Kings Landing
Carolyn Kay, Kal Spriggs, Quincy J. Allen
What are the ups and downs of being a cross-genre author? It’s not all roses, but its also not eating the same burger day after day after day.
Modesty in Cosplay: Don’t Have to Show a Lot of Skin
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Nevernever
Tonya L. De Marco
A discussion on ways to modify your costumes for your comfort level.
Moments Only an Artist Can Relate To
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Room of Requirement
Peri Charlifu
We have all had moments that only an artist can really relate to, let’s air some dirty laundry for an audience and talk about the worst, the best and the weirdest things that have happened to us as artists.
Monomyth: Everyone’s A Hero In Their Own Way
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Helms Deep
Richard Malena
Folklorists have long studied the similarities between the heroes that have entertained and guided people throughout the centuries. Explore these common characteristics through ancient tales as well as heroes we can’t stop watching on TV today. How does Ellen Ripley stack up against Joan of Arc? Is Harry Dresden more like Merlin than Doctor Who? Let’s find out.
My Little Pony Fashion
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Ana MacDonell, Michelle Reeves, Tonya L. De Marco
Don’t know what to wear for the Grand Galloping Gala? This panel will show you creative ways to create the perfect My Little Pony costume for adults and children.
New Authors Anonymous
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Kings Landing
Paul Lell, Scott Beckman
Talk about what it’s like as a newbie in this crazy publishing world.
Oh, the Horror!
Saturday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Amity Green, Pamela Nihiser, Quincy J. Allen, Travis Heermann
Finding a balance between the emotion and the genre. Balancing fear with a good story.
Open Filking
Saturday, 8:00 PM-11:50 PM, Nevernever
Folk music, often with a sci fi or fantasy theme, played casually in a round-robin style. Bring an instrument if you have one, your voice as well, and a good sense of humor doesn’t hurt.
Opening Ceremonies
Friday, 6:30 PM-6:55 PM, McAnallys Pub
Jim Butcher, Nikki Ebright, Nissa LaFete, Peri Charlifu, S. J. Tucker, Sean Patrick Fannon, The Doubleclicks, Tomas O’Dreams
Organizer Nikki Ebright welcomes everyone and introduces this year’s Guests of Honor.
Organizing the Studio
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, The Shire
Sarin Tatroe
A clean studio is a productive studio; sounds logical but few artists can keep a clean, organized workspace. Explore some effective, low cost alternatives, how to multi-task your work area and storage options. Get organized and make your work area work for you!
Overcoming Creative Fears
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Kings Landing
Thomas A. Fowler, Chaz Kemp, Sam Knight, Sarin Tatroe
There is a time when you have to introduce your work to the world; learn to overcome a common, harrowing experience for every creative person out there.
Ow, My Spleen!
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, The Shire
Kal Spriggs, Emily Godhand, Paul Lell
All too often in a book or movie, the characters undergo severe physical trauma, only for them to undertake heroic acts in the following scenes. How do you write realistic fiction where your characters are injured and face the consequences yet still manage to allow them to do what you need?
Pitching to the Editor
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, The Shire
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Keith DeCandido
Want to pitch your next great novel in a flash? Learn how from pros who have been there.
Podcasting
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Kings Landing
Kevin Frost
How to get into it, the pitfalls of trying to record your own audio, and making audio narrations of your own fiction for podcasting. And how to write that &*%^#! RSS file so iTunes can find your show!
Polyamory and Non-monogamy in Science Fiction and Fantasy
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Serenity
Emily Godhand, Nancy Kay Clark, Stace Johnson, Tanya Hixon
Panelists will review SFF genre fiction throughout the decades with non-monogamous and polyamorous themes and how they have influenced current lifestyle trends.
Pony Tail Making
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Nevernever
Come to this no-sew project panel to make your own pony tail out of yarn. All ages.
Pursuing Your Dreams in Writing, Art and everything else
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Lawrence, KS
Chaz Kemp, Sarin Tatroe
How to completely go for your dreams despite all of the good advice that you’ll be given to stop you. Beyond the pit falls and dealing with discouragement, a focus on how to put your dreams into action and how to stay happy when all seems bleak.
Relationship, Sexual, and Gender Diversity in our Fandoms
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Serenity
Nancy Kay Clark, Richard Friesen, Tanya Hixon, Tawny Fritz
Sometime it’s overt and sometimes we’ll theorize (as in this panel) about the relationship, sexual and gender diversity within our fandoms. What are some examples of non-traditional relationships that we see? Are the characters authentic and are they being fairly represented?
Religion in SF/F Outside the Western World
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Stant Litore, Veronica Calisto
What if the galaxy was explored by Islamic researchers? What if the next epic fantasy you read is set in Aztec Mexico? Speculative fiction is our chance to explore the cosmos through very different eyes than our own — and not just extraterrestrial or elven ones!
Rewriting History with the Living Dead
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, The Shire
Stant Litore
What if the zombie plague has been a recurring phenomenon throughout the centuries? Alternate history gurus will lead you through an interactive imaginative exercise based on that premise!
Savage Rifts: No Zealot Like a Convert
Sunday, 12:00 PM-3:50 PM, Nevernever
Sean Patrick Fannon
Sean Patrick Fannon, the Pinnacle Brand Manager and Lead Writer/Designer for Savage Rifts, runs this official published adventure for Myths & Legends Con 2016 attendees. New officers—recently graduated from accelerated training programs and indoctrinated in Coalition propaganda—are eager to break in their shiny new armor and their commissions on the backs of any D-Bees and magic practitioners they can find. Second Lieutenant Andrea Carmichael is one such officer, and she’s decided to take her long-range patrol far outside its assigned pattern in hopes of finding enemies worthy of a first lieutenant’s bar, or even captain’s rank. No experience needed, characters provided. Up to six players welcome.
Savage Rifts: The Garnet Town Gambit
Saturday, 4:00 PM-8:00 PM, Nevernever
Sean Patrick Fannon
Sean Patrick Fannon, the Pinnacle Brand Manager and Lead Writer/Designer for Savage Rifts, runs this official published adventure for Myths & Legends Con 2016 attendees. A group of legionnaires are returning from a patrol when they stumble onto a town in the midst of trouble. This settlement, known as Garnet Town, is under pressure from three groups due to the nearby proximity of a nexus point. Depending on the actions of the legionnaires, the future of Garnet Town may lie with any of the groups trying to take control—or none. No experience needed, characters provided. Up to six players welcome.
Science Fiction or Science Fact
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Serenity
Brian Ziman, Stace Johnson, Veronica Calisto
How to make Sci-Fi more believable. The Plausibility of Sci-Fi concepts found in places like Firefly, Doctor Who and others.
Self Defense Against the Dark Arts
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, McAnallys Pub
Galen Pereira, Keith DeCandido
Come learn a few self defense moves to keep in your back pocket in case you’re approached by unsavory types such as dementors, werewolves, or ministry officials.
Self publishing (Print and eBook)
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Quincy J. Allen, Scott Beckman
So many options out there. How do you choose the best company to work with and how do you actually make it happen, in physical form and electronically?
Serenity vs. FireFly: The Audience Quiz Bowl Game
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Helms Deep
Sawyer Slater
Do you know more about Serenity and Firefly than your friends? Now is your chance to find out how much you know in this family-friendly and fun game where deep knowledge is pitted against recall speed.
Severus Snape: It’s all about Me
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, The Shire
Brian Ziman
People debate if Snape was good or bad, but what if he didn’t care about Dumbledore or The Dark Lord. What if it was just all about his personal interests, and the rest was window dressing for him.
Sex and Violence in YA Literature
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Serenity
Sam Knight, Amity Green, Jacob Mayfield, Travis Heermann, Veronica Calisto
With books/movies like Hunger Games, Divergent and Twilight, what is too much for sex and violence in books that are supposed to be for young adults. How much if any was too much for Harry Potter, LoTR, and The Hobbit?
Sexy in Science Fiction
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Serenity
Kimberly Kennedy, Ian Thomas Healy, Nancy Kay Clark, Travis Heermann
Love and sex are essential elements in any story. How these scenes in popular SFF can help you create more robust stories with fully fleshed-out characters.
Sherlock: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle vs BBC
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Serenity
Kimberly Kennedy, Lou J Berger
Have you wondered how true the BBC series Sherlock is to the original Conan Doyle stories? How different and accurate is the show to the Victorian Detective?
Silmarillion on Film?
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, The Shire
Andrew Hallam, DeLace Munger, Joshua Sammons
There’s only one major Tolkien work left. Could we see someone turn The Silmarillion into a made-for-TV blockbuster? Should we?
Sirens in the Spotlight: Music for Mermaids
Sunday, 10:30 AM-11:20 AM, McAnallys Pub
S. J. Tucker
Known as “Sooj”, SJ Tucker is a vanguard of the Mythpunk movement and a dynamic live performer. Let her engage you with evocative ballads, highlighting the sirens among us.
So Charming, Not Creepy
Friday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Serenity
Jason Evans, Quincy J. Allen, Tonya L. De Marco, Veronica Calisto
Make your convention experience better by learning how to approach people without being a creep. A discussion on etiquette, consent, common sense and enjoying fandom with respect. Audience is encouraged to share examples of good and bad interactions.
So You Want to Turn Your Hobby Into a Business
Friday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, The Shire
Sean Patrick Fannon
There are plenty of hobbies in fiction fandom, from costumes to artwork to tea to writing to pretty much everything. How does one go about making a living or at least creating income with a hobby?
Sooj Unplugged
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Kings Landing
S. J. Tucker
Join S.J. Tucker (aka “Sooj”) as she gets more intimate, going unplugged and talking about songwriting and working with prompts.
Stant Litore Author Reading
Friday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, Kings Landing
Stant Litore
Friday evening: 45 minute reading of Ansible 15715
Stant Litore Author Reading
Saturday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, Kings Landing
Stant Litore
Saturday evening: 75 minute reading of Dante’s Heart
Stant Litore Author Reading
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Kings Landing
Stant Litore
A reading from What Our Eyes Have Witnessed from the Zombie Bible Series.
Steampunk 101
Friday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Jeffrey Cook
Steampunk is hot right now, crossing the worlds of literature, costuming, crafting, movies, and more. But what is Steampunk? Where did it start? Why is it called that? A look at the history of the genre and its explosion in popularity over the past decade.
Steampunk in Fiction: Is London Dead?
Friday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, Helms Deep
Chaz Kemp, Kevin Frost, Mike Cervantes
The sun didn’t set on the British Empire during Victoria’s time and there are growing examples of steampunk in other countries. Have we worn out foggy London as a place where gears and corsets reign?
Steampunk v. Post Apocalypse: Common Ground?
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Helms Deep
Kevin Frost, Aaron Spriggs
Steampunk is a versatile subgenre that can be interpreted as a post-apocalypse scenario. What is our role in the coming wasteland? Or are Steampunks and Wastelanders actually twins separated at birth?
Sticking the Landing: How to End Your
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Serenity
Travis Heermann, Lou J Berger, Van Aaron Hughes
Why do some endings leave a lasting impact and others just fizzle?
Story in an Hour
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Serenity
Carolyn Kay, Lou J Berger, Stace Johnson
Panelists and the audience will collaborate in a one-hour fun adventure, outlining a new story together.
Storytelling with Tomas O’Dreams
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Serenity
Nissa LaFete, Tomas O’Dreams
Tomas O’Dreams and Nissa Of LaFete and their faerie friends brought stories from near and far to the Faerie Court. Now let them treat you! Be sure to catch this leprechaun and his faerie companions for myths, magic, and merriment for all ages!
Storytelling with Tomas O’Dreams
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, The Shire
Nissa LaFete, Tomas O’Dreams
Tomas O’Dreams and Nissa Of LaFete and their faerie friends brought stories from near and far to the Faerie Court. Now let them treat you! Be sure to catch this leprechaun and his faerie companions for myths, magic, and merriment for all ages!
Strong Female Characters in Harry Potter
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Nevernever
Brian Ziman, Tawny Fritz
Let’s investigate how the female characters at Hogwarts uniquely frame, shape, and drive the story based on their unique perspective on the way women interact with the world.
Superheroes: Myths and Legends of the Modern Age
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Kings Landing
Jason Evans
From Hercules and Coyote to Batman and Deadpool, the superhero has always existed in some form in the cultural roots of the world. Discussion to include why humans need these characters in our collective consciousness.
Sympathetic Villains
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Helms Deep
Amity Green, Ian Brazee-Cannon, Kal Spriggs, Paul Lell, Quincy J. Allen
The old Master was patently evil, a nasty curmudgeon with nefarious design while the new Masters were made into sympathetic villains of galactic proportions. We root for Doctor Horrible over the good guy Captain Hammer. How does this change our view of villains?
Tai Chi Session
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, McAnallys Pub
Galen Pereira
Tai chi is known for both defense training as well as its health benefits. Come get grounded with this interactive session, gentle enough for all abilities.
Tai Chi Session
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, McAnallys Pub
Galen Pereira
Tai chi is known for both defense training as well as its health benefits. Come get grounded with this interactive session, gentle enough for all abilities.
Tea Dueling
Saturday, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM, Gallifrey
Dame Ursula Wiffenpott
Hoist your biscuits and prepare to duel in the spirited Sudden Death Tea Dueling Tournament. Sponsored by Dryad Tea.
Teach an Old Artist a New Trick: What’s New?
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Room of Requirement
Peri Charlifu
New techniques, tools and materials are always being developed. Whats new in your field? Did you know, there’s now a digital printer for making clay pottery and sculpture?
The Doubleclicks Concert
Sunday, 1:30 PM-2:20 PM, McAnallys Pub
The Doubleclicks
The Doubleclicks are a nationally-touring, Billboard charting nerd band with a cello, a meowing cat keyboard, and songs about dinosaurs, Cats & Netflix, space and Dungeons and Dragons. Come see their awesome live performance!
The Muse and the Devil
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Room of Requirement
Jason Evans, Kathryn Renta, Stant Litore
Where do artists get their inspiration and ideas, why does it seem that some of my best ideas don’t sell? How does inspiration hit and how do I ignite that spark?
The Price of Magic
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Nevernever
Amity Green, Courtney Farrell, Kathryn Renta, Sean Patrick Fannon
Magic has to have a price to any character. A discussion on prices paid and what happens if a character has no cost for magic.
Things You Wouldn’t Believe
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Helms Deep
Carolyn Kay, Tonya L. De Marco
True stories about fan interactions, con experiences, writing gaffs, and anything else panelists will admit to. Names will be changed to protect the <guilty, innocent,=”” crazy.=””>
To Self Pub or Not: Is It Really Easy?
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, The Shire
Ian Thomas Healy
What does it take to transform your beloved manuscript from standard manuscript format to print and eBooks formats and get it out there for purchase?
Trials and Triumphs of Short Fiction
Friday, 5:00 PM-6:20 PM, The Shire
Van Aaron Hughes, Eneasz Brodski, Lou J Berger, Travis Heermann
Discuss what it’s like to work the short fiction market, from getting into Gratis Anthologies all the way up to Pro sales. How do you climb that ladder, and what’s the fastest route into the big leagues?
Trope if You Want To
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Serenity
Mike Cervantes, Aaron Michael Ritchey, Kimberly Kennedy, Veronica Calisto
You know that story you want to write about pirates? How about that one about aliens? Superheroes? Wizards? Secret agents? Just because a genre has already been beaten to death doesn’t mean you can’t bring something unique to it.
UnPub Game Demos hosted by SpyGlass Games
Friday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, Serenity
Dave Ploense, Jeff Arbrough, Michael Knight
This event is where Designers can show of their board game creations to the public! The Deck Builder with Dice Based Combat VENOM Assault will be featured along with the push your luck dice roller Hunting Sasquatch. Come by and check out these games and meet their creators as well!
Verse in the ‘Verse: Poetry and the Firefly Universe
Friday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Nevernever
Stace Johnson
Readings of fan poetry, r impromptu Firefly poetry, and any poetry based on Firefly topics. Bring your material to share or provide prompts to the panelists.
VIP Speed Dating
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, McAnallys Pub
Jim Butcher, Nissa LaFete, Peri Charlifu, S. J. Tucker, Sean Patrick Fannon, The Doubleclicks, Tomas O’Dreams
A FREE gathering of fans where the VIP and special guests visit YOUR tables just to meet YOU. Meet Jim Butcher, The Doubleclicks, Peri Charlifu and many more!
We Suffer for Your Art
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Room of Requirement
Kathryn Renta, Linda Marie Evans
This one’s for the artists significant others, do you suffer for the art of your other half, or do you run naked in the glory of their art, in wild abandon, or do you just shake your head and wonder why me? Come and talk about the challenges and rewards of being in a relationship with an artist!
Westercon 71
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, McAnallys Pub
Billy Van Ark, Nikki Ebright
A Denver-based team won the right to host the Westercon convention in Denver in 2018. What is Westercon and why is it important to bring it to Denver?
What is Our Fascination With the Undead?
Saturday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, The Shire
Sam Knight, Courtney Farrell, Kathryn Renta, Pamela Nihiser
From Zombies to vampires and everything in between, why does our society love these tropes? What do they say about our modern society and our values?
What to Do With That First Manuscript
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Serenity
Catherine Winters, Travis Heermann, Veronica Calisto
Once written, what should I do with my book? Where do I start, what decisions need to be made, and what are some common pitfalls to newbies?
Whedonverse
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Serenity
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Kathryn Renta, Keith DeCandido, Lou J Berger
Come join your fellow Whedonites to talk, share, argue and discuss your love for all of Whedon’s creations! Buffy, Firefly, Avengers, Dr Horrible and more. More thrilling than staying at a cabin in the woods, more insane than living in a dollhouse.
When They Tell You They’re Too Old or Too Young
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, The Shire
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Amity Green, Courtney Farrell
There is YA literature that many consider to have topics beyond a YA audience (Hunger Games, Twilight), but does this mean they aren’t for adult readers? What’s the judgment and do we care?
Word Magic: Defining Harry Potter’s World
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Helms Deep
Tessa vonHilsheimer
A presentation examining neologisms within the Harry Potter series, how they are developed, how they are translated, and, most importantly, how they affect reader experiences
Write Characters Your Readers Won’t Forget – Part I
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Helms Deep
Stant Litore
Unburying your character’s history
Write Characters Your Readers Won’t Forget – Part II
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Helms Deep
Stant Litore
Writing unforgettable dialogue
Write Characters Your Readers Won’t Forget – Part III
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Helms Deep
Stant Litore
The character arc tool
Writing Animals in Fiction
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Serenity
J.A. Campbell, Aaron Spriggs, Nancy Kay Clark
How far can a horse really travel? Does a rider really guide a horse with her knees? Do dogs and cats think like us, or do they even like us? How do we portray animal movement and behavior realistically in fiction?
Writing Combat in Science Fiction & Fantasy
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Eneasz Brodski, Kal Spriggs, Keith DeCandido, Richard Friesen
What works (and doesn’t) in books and media for fighting and conflict. A friendly discussion about violence, bloodshed, and what effect it has upon characters. What goes on in crafting a scene, what makes a fight scene realistic without being over the top, and examples of combat done right versus where authors/directors have gone wrong.
Writing from Life’s Lessons
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Serenity
Amity Green, Quincy J. Allen, Tonya L. De Marco
How have your life experiences impacted your craft?
Writing in the 21st Century: What can we do now that we couldn’t do before?
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, The Shire
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Stace Johnson, Tonya L. De Marco
Are there topics, characters, or situations that we can write about now that were taboo or forbidden in the past?
Writing Jobs That Aren’t Writing Fiction
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, McAnallys Pub
Sandra Wheeler, Thomas A. Fowler
Learn about growing fields of writing outside of writing fiction that will grow your skills as a writer and pay above minimum wage.
Writing the story is the easiest part!
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Kings Landing
LJ Hachmeister, Lou J Berger
Panelists discuss tales and compare the indie and traditional publishing worlds.
Writing the Supernatural
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Lawrence, KS
Amity Green, Quincy J. Allen, Sam Knight
How can we make tropes like ghosts, vampires, and werewolves appeal to audiences who have had their fill? What constitutes writing about the supernatural and what can authors do to pep up the characters and brighten up the tropes?
Yule Ball with The Doubleclicks
Saturday, 9:00 PM-12:00 AM, McAnallys Pub
The Doubleclicks
Put your wands in the air, like you just don’t care! Come ready to dance in your finest dress robes or just show off your house colors. Featuring The Doubleclicks at 9:30 PM, and friendly to all ages of mages.