When is it better to shop your book around to publishers, and when does it make more sense to put it out yourself?
Chris Kreuter (mod), Paul Levinson, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, April Grey, Michael D'Ambrosio, Russ Colchamiro
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Danielle Ackley-McPhail
From cover design to distribution options, where do you take your masterpiece?
Alex Shvartsman (mod), Aaron Rosenberg, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Paul Levinson, Ken Altabef, Tee Morris
April Grey (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Sally Wiener Grotta, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Roberta Rogow, Elektra Hammond
Danielle Ackley-McPhail (mod), Mike McPhail
We've talked a lot over the years about how to avoid infodumping, or at least, giving your readers information in a way that is entertaining and easy to parse. But sometimes the question you ought to ask is not how to insert all the facts about the world you've built, but "is it necessary?"
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Steven Brust, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Bernie Mojzes, Danielle Ackley-McPhail
No moderator, no elimination, ten-minute games. ONUW is a fast game for 3-10 players in which everyone gets a role, each with a special ability. In a single morning, your village will decide who is a werewolf...because all it takes is killing one werewolf to win!
Talavou Alailima (mod)
No moderator, no elimination, ten-minute games. ONUW is a fast game for 3-10 players in which everyone gets a role, each with a special ability. In a single morning, your village will decide who is a werewolf...because all it takes is killing one werewolf to win!
Talavou Alailima (mod)
DS9 was singular in the Trekverse for its dramatic and often troubling depictions of interstellar politics, from people of honor and ideals frequently being forced to question or compromise their beliefs, to those who make no pretense of using any ends to justify their means. For the 25th anniversary of its premiere, a discussion of the series and its eerie prescience regarding real-world political conflicts and issues since its airing.
Russell J. Handelman (mod), Susan Shwartz, Daniel Kimmel, Jonathan Alexandratos, Orenthal Hawkins, Rebecca Robare
There's a lot to unpack in this one...where to begin? What does Michael represent in the growth of how female characters have been depicted in the franchise? Did they portray PTSD realistically? How effective was their commentary on contemporary issues? Given how many characters died overall, did the death of "minority" characters still feel like fridging?
Ty Drago (mod), Jonathan Alexandratos, Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Inge Heyer, Glenn McDorman, Jay Wile
What is your favorite toy? Do you still have it? Or did you purge your collection when you turned a certain age? Too often, we turn our analytical brains to books, movies, music, and TV, but we throw away the significance of our toys. In this presentation, we'll look at famous toys and discuss the cultural messages contained within them.
Jonathan Alexandratos (mod)
How much actual supernaturalism or other fantastic elements (dragons, magic, elves, etc.) does a fantasy story require? There are examples of books marketed as fantasy, set in imaginary places, that contain no fantastic elements- How do they function within the genre?
Jim Stratton (mod), Ken Altabef, Sally Wiener Grotta, Carl Paolino, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Anna Kashina
From cover design to distribution options, where do you take your masterpiece?
Alex Shvartsman (mod), Aaron Rosenberg, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Paul Levinson, Ken Altabef, Tee Morris
Indie writers talk about their marketing successes and fails. How do you set realistic expectations for the response to your efforts?
Ken Altabef (mod), John Skylar, Paul Levinson, Russ Colchamiro, Michael Hanson
Ken Altabef (mod), John Monahan, Martin Berman-Gorvine
Ken Altabef (mod), April Grey
Recently made available streaming on Amazon Prime, this pioneering Science Fiction TV show featured a fully-plotted story arc for each season, even as each episode told a single story. Fans both old and new will share reasons why *you* should watch it...while avoiding spoilers.
Tony Finan (mod), Ken Altabef, Elektra Hammond, Tim Souder, Lawrence Kramer, Mark Wolverton
Is the reboot of the franchise a deserving successor to the original series? Do the modern-day "prequels" reflect a change in how we view our world- and humanity's place in it?
Ken Altabef (mod), Barna William Donovan, Kim Kindya
When most people think of sci-fi anime they think of legendary giant robots, but some sci-fi anime gets the science more right than you may think!
Walter Amos (mod), Robert Fenelon, Ben Jorritsma, Robert C. Roman
Join us as we discuss the all-too-rare accurate depictions of military hardware, tactics and strategy in animation.
Robert Fenelon (mod), Brian T. Graening-Price, Walter Amos, Robert C. Roman
Many animations have been ahead of the social curve. Tezuka's Bagi protested animal experimentation in 1984. More recently, Golden Kamuy features an Ainu main character, while Code Geass depicts Japanese people being treated like Koreans have been treated in Japan. This panel will delve into the ways in which anime has challenged the social norms of Japan from the past to the present.
Robert Fenelon (mod), Ben Jorritsma, Stephanie Burke, Walter Amos
What they are, what they are NOT, why it's A Bad Idea to confuse a black hole with a wormhole, and how to use them in scientifically accurate ways in your writing.
Dr. Valerie J. Mikles (mod), Bob Hranek, John Ashmead, Jay Wile, Peter Prellwitz
How do these universes differ in the ways they depict their tech? How did the history of each world affect the invention and uses of medical devices, weaponry, methods of transportation, and robotic beings?
Jeff Warner (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Jay Wile, Anna Kashina, Glenn Hauman
How do we expect to change the galactic landscape in an ethical way, and what can we do as humans to decrease our impact on it? What does it mean to establish human settlements on worlds not our own? A discussion of space travel, space colonies, and morality.
Jazz Hiestand (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Tom Purdom, Tobias Cabral, Joseph Haughey
Why do we want to go? How do we get there? How do we live there? What might we find? What are the dangers: radiation, low gravity, dust, our fellow humans? Is there life on Mars now? Was there once? and did our own evolution actually start on Mars?
John Ashmead (mod)
Since the days of H.G. Wells, Mars has figured greatly in SF. How have SF views of Mars changed as our understanding of the planet grew. Why does it still matter today?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), John Ashmead, Michael D'Ambrosio, Paul Levinson, Tobias Cabral
What's the hottest tech about to change our world? Join us to discuss the promise, threat, and some things people usually don’t want to talk about.
Bob Hranek (mod), John Ashmead, Earl Bennett, Charlie Robertson, John Skylar
Despite a long history in fiction of solo geniuses making the ultimate breakthroughs in their basement labs, collaboration is necessary for scientific advancement. So why do we glorify the loner scientist trope? Can we make collaborative science feel equally heroic? How do we portray science being done realistically while still meeting the needs of the story?
Jim Stratton (mod), John Ashmead, Aaron Feldman, Anna Kashina, Alan P. Smale, Tee Morris
Join us for an exhibit and discussion of Victorian-era dress and entertainments, with authentic antique garments, millinery and accessories, personal autograph albums, stereopticons and photographic stereovision cards to view! Miss Lizzy's is a non-profit Special Interest Group of the International Costumer's Guild whose mission is to preserve and research fashion and domestic life of the Victorian era through WWI. Hold actual history in your own hands!
Lisa Ashton (mod)
Use feathers, ribbons, buttons and trim- or learn how to sew a rosette to attach to the hat! We provide the hat, tables full of trims and bits to try, glue guns and supervision! Open to all- children under 10 should be accompanied/supervised by a parent, but they are welcome. Presented by Carol Salemi and Lisa Ashton
Carol Salemi (mod), Lisa Ashton
A beading workshop that teaches the technique of attaching a flat-back cabochon to fabric by beading around it with peyote beading. It's helpful to have a little sewing experience, but beginners also welcome. The kit has everything you need: beads, thread, choice of cabochons, needles and fabric.
Lisa Ashton (mod), Carol Salemi
Make a Victorian style pincushion or hat stand and take it home with you! All materials provided including the stand- brass, wood, glass or ceramic, to make a fabulous pin cushion or hat stand you will love to have on your table! No experience necessary.
Carol Salemi (mod), Lisa Ashton
Remembering Gardner Dozois -- A gathering to honor Philadelphia’s own Gardner Dozois. In addition to his 15 Hugos as Best Editor, he was two-time Nebula winner for short fiction as a writer, the founder and editor of the Year's Best Science Fiction anthologies, and editor of Isaac Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine for 20 years. Come join us in celebrating his life.
David M. Axler (mod), Tom Purdom, Samuel Delany, Michael Swanwick, Tess Kissinger, Robert Walters
The source of the popularization of Celtic myth, fairies, and ghost stories, what does modern fantasy owe to developments of the Victorian era?
Philippa Ballantine (mod), Mary Spila, Linda J. Lee, Elizabeth Crowens
How do you design characters that your audience will find not only three-dimensional, but *memorable*? What will adding a dash of this or that personality trait do to your audience's opinion of them?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Steven Brust, Alan P. Smale, Philippa Ballantine, Michael A. Ventrella
Alan P. Smale (mod), Philippa Ballantine, Chris Kreuter
Just how does a "Kickstarter" work? Will Patreon's recent changes impact your ability to attract and keep Patrons? Is it worth setting up a KoFi account?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Philippa Ballantine, Alex Shvartsman, Alana Phelan, Glenn Hauman
Writers from Tanith Lee to Cat Valente to Seanan McGuire have incorporated and transformed fairy tales in their work. How have they managed to update the stories in a manner that feels both in line with the originals and relevant to the present day? Are their adaptations actually darker than the source material, or have the Disney versions just changed what we think of as the standard?
Philippa Ballantine (mod), Kim Kindya, Mary Spila, Eric Parmer, Karen Heuler, Linda J. Lee
Our panelists reveal the artists and art movements that have influenced their works.
Nathan Lilly (mod), Heidi Hooper, Alan Beck
What are the best art applications? Platforms? Where do I learn to use them? Is a digital pen and tablet needed?
Ray Ridenour (mod), Alan Beck, Eric Hardenbrook, Nathan Lilly, Mike McPhail
Alan F. Beck will create a painting using watercolors.
Alan Beck (mod)
Learn how to play the exciting Pathfinder 1st edition RPG. Chris Bell, Pathfinder Venture Agent, will run a scenario suited for beginning Pathfinder players. Pre-generated characters will be provided. This introduction to Pathfinder Society organized play will include Pathfinder Society scenario credit for participation. All experience levels welcome, including those new to the Pathfinder Society as well as PFS veterans!
Chris Bell (mod)
Shoujo manga is rife with tropes and clichés, yet it is the genre that introduced many to anime and manga. And while we enjoyed it, we’ve picked some of the best series that defy the genre while still being the light-hearted romantic comedies that we love.
Lyndsey Bellamy (mod), Lauren Bellamy
Rumiko Takahashi’s hit series is beloved around the world for blending action, fantasy, and romance. Let’s take a closer look at the unique cast of women that fight demons, protect their loved ones, stand up for what’s right, and sometimes are as evil as Naraku himself.
Lyndsey Bellamy (mod), Lauren Bellamy
The spectrum of sexuality and gender identities are constantly being recalibrated and redefined. Let us help you understand with the helpful visual aid of some of your favorite characters. We invite everyone that wants to learn more about pan / bi / demi / ace sexualities, aromanticism, and intersex / trans / genderfluid gender identities.
Lyndsey Bellamy (mod), Lauren Bellamy
Anime and manga hosts an entire rainbow of characters, from hair color to physical abilities. In this presentation, we focus on the range of characters that represent the diversity in all otaku—people of color, strong women, LGBTQ individuals, varied body types, and religious diversity.
Lyndsey Bellamy (mod), Lauren Bellamy
Shoujo manga is rife with tropes and clichés, yet it is the genre that introduced many to anime and manga. And while we enjoyed it, we’ve picked some of the best series that defy the genre while still being the light-hearted romantic comedies that we love.
Lyndsey Bellamy (mod), Lauren Bellamy
Rumiko Takahashi’s hit series is beloved around the world for blending action, fantasy, and romance. Let’s take a closer look at the unique cast of women that fight demons, protect their loved ones, stand up for what’s right, and sometimes are as evil as Naraku himself.
Lyndsey Bellamy (mod), Lauren Bellamy
The spectrum of sexuality and gender identities are constantly being recalibrated and redefined. Let us help you understand with the helpful visual aid of some of your favorite characters. We invite everyone that wants to learn more about pan / bi / demi / ace sexualities, aromanticism, and intersex / trans / genderfluid gender identities.
Lyndsey Bellamy (mod), Lauren Bellamy
Anime and manga hosts an entire rainbow of characters, from hair color to physical abilities. In this presentation, we focus on the range of characters that represent the diversity in all otaku—people of color, strong women, LGBTQ individuals, varied body types, and religious diversity.
Lyndsey Bellamy (mod), Lauren Bellamy
3D printers have now been used to successfully print everything from rocket engines to human skin. How far are we from printing a cup of Earl Grey, Hot?
Earl Bennett (mod), John Monahan, Charlie Robertson, Bruce Dykes
What's the hottest tech about to change our world? Join us to discuss the promise, threat, and some things people usually don’t want to talk about.
Bob Hranek (mod), John Ashmead, Earl Bennett, Charlie Robertson, John Skylar
A discussion for writers of range and scope, HAM radio operation, the rise and descent of CB radio, common malfunctions and simple fixes, and where they can be found in the case of zombies.
Charlie Robertson (mod), Earl Bennett, Bruce Dykes
Muriel Stockdale (mod), Martin Berman-Gorvine
A lot of imagery and scenarios that used to terrify people are viewed as laughable by more recent generations. Are there horrors that are truly timeless? How do you invoke them into the mind of the modern-day reader?
Mark Singer (mod), Dina Leacock, Nicholas Kaufmann, Martin Berman-Gorvine, Karalyn Morris
Ken Altabef (mod), John Monahan, Martin Berman-Gorvine
Science Fiction is the genre best suited for ideas that challenge the status quo, because it is not bound by our reality as we know it. At the same time, SF has existed for long enough that it has become full of ossified paradigms that no longer force us to examine our perspectives. How do we keep our ideas relevant given the evolutionary nature of the genre while also dealing with the natural tendency of fiction to recycle cliches, frameworks, and touchstones that are familiar to us?
Michael Swanwick (mod), Martin Berman-Gorvine, Eric Hardenbrook, Mike McPhail, Peter Prellwitz
A discussion of conspiracy theories, secret societies, and themes of cover-ups / the creation of a false consciousness by shadowy organizations in science fiction. Should we be concerned about how paranoid society seems to be getting? Or is it all just a government ploy...
Michael A. Ventrella (mod), Michael D'Ambrosio, Mark Singer, Martin Berman-Gorvine, Kevin Patterson
Brigand Rohan Mauryan Balraj and his crew present an all-ages storytelling session featuring Vedic tales...with a twist! What will it be tonight? The Cycle of Shiva, Sati & Ganesh as a Domestic Dispute? Incarnations of Vishnu as WWE encounters? (Audience participation strongly encouraged!)
Savan Gupta (mod), F. M. Yates, Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch
A new story for a new hour! Join master storyteller Brigand Rohan Mauryan Balraj and his crew for another Vedic tale with a twist!
Savan Gupta (mod), F. M. Yates, Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch
An analysis of tropes in Steampunk and SF such as Multiverse Theory, Clockworks, and Airships and the origins of these concepts in cultures outside of England, with a particular focus on India and Persia.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch
An exploration of Vedic & Southeast Asian SF & F through the numerous instances, concepts and derivative works produced by both Western and Eastern presses. We'll talk about Scripture, Literature, Saga Poetry, Graphic Novels, RPGs and more, from the Rg Veda and Ramayana 3392 A.D. to Escher and Exalted RPG.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, F. M. Yates
So that Magic Sword is looking dull? That Laser Rifle doesn’t quite pew-pew like it used to? We'll take a look at both fantasy and postmodern armaments in Fantasy and SF Roleplaying Games, with a specific eye to synergy and implementation, as well as item creation, placement and team management from either side of the table.
Savan Gupta (mod), Zee Bowditch, Tauney Kennedy
A walkthrough for designing a stage character with their own background, history, circumstances, quirks and unique flair. Our questionnaire will lead participants through the process of identifying their interests, experiences, and knowledge in order to inform the process of re-defining themselves.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch, Courtney Capacea
Is your character in need of justice? For the past fourteen years, the officers of Cosplay Court Case have arbitrated grievances across fandoms of all genres with assistance from audience members in this widely-loved improv event. So whether you're a Pokemon looking to file a restraining order against Ash Ketchum, Hondo Ohnaka suing the Jedi Council for wage theft, or want Fox McCloud tried for war crimes, come get yourself on the docket!
Savan Gupta (mod), Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch, Courtney Capacea, Robert C. Roman, Tauney Kennedy
The Chromatics perform a mix of themes from (and songs about) TV and movies, as well as songs about technology, life, and their intersections
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Dr. Padi Boyd, Scott Rohrbach
AstroCappella: A Musical Exploration of the Universe. The Chromatics' mission is to spread science through a cappella and a cappella through science across a wide swath of the known Universe. Multimedia performance!
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Alan P. Smale, Karen Smale, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach, Michelle Orhan
Worlds beyond our own solar system were once just science fiction, but today we know there are more planets than stars in our galaxy. How did that happen? Explore strange new worlds with Dr. Padi Boyd and the Chromatics, as they take you on a voyage of discovery with space science missions like the newly launched Transiting Exoplanet Survey satellite (TESS).
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Karen Smale, Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
The Chromatics sing AND talk! This is an all-original music show, featuring songwriter discussion and Q&A about the songs.
Alan P. Smale (mod), Karen Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen (mod)
Is SF inherently materialistic? While there are sf stories written from a religious viewpoint, they are in a distinct minority. What does this tell us about the inherent nature of SF and the freedom to speculate vs the rigidity of dogma?
David Walton (mod), Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen, Chris Kreuter, Lawrence Kramer, Mark Singer
Even established long-term professional writers still work to improve their skills. Authors discuss things they have learned along the way, and how they have gained new levels of expertise.
D.L. Carter (mod), Gregory Frost, Alyce Wilson, Joshua Palmatier, Sally Wiener Grotta, Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen
Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen (mod), Charlie Robertson
Moderating a panel is more than just showing up and asking people to quiet down if a discussion gets out of hand. Learn what the best moderators do to prepare for and handle the panels they are responsible for managing.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Gordon Linzner, Susan Shwartz, Steven Brust, Ray Ridenour, Jeff Warner
An informal sit-down with this year's Principal Speaker.
Steven Brust (mod)
How do you design characters that your audience will find not only three-dimensional, but *memorable*? What will adding a dash of this or that personality trait do to your audience's opinion of them?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Steven Brust, Alan P. Smale, Philippa Ballantine, Michael A. Ventrella
Steven Brust (mod)
Steven Brust (mod), Gary Lippincott
Who your narrator is, how the story is perceived, and where the “camera” is can make all the difference in the success or failure in a story. What stories have used these elements in successful ways?
Jim Stratton (mod), Steven Brust, Dina Leacock, Bernie Mojzes, Gregory Frost, Muriel Stockdale
Steven Brust (mod), Dina Leacock
We've talked a lot over the years about how to avoid infodumping, or at least, giving your readers information in a way that is entertaining and easy to parse. But sometimes the question you ought to ask is not how to insert all the facts about the world you've built, but "is it necessary?"
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Steven Brust, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Bernie Mojzes, Danielle Ackley-McPhail
People differ in how they read (or listen) to a story. They may read fast or linger over the text. They may search back for “clues” or just go for the ride. How can the different modes impact your experience?
Brandon Budda (mod), Alyce Wilson, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Eric Hardenbrook, Glenn McDorman
"Fifty years ago, Stanley Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke set out to make a new kind of sci-fi. How does their future look now that it’s the past?" This question was asked in a recent article in The New Yorker, and now we're asking you.
Jeff Warner (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Alyce Wilson, Brandon Budda, Daniel Kimmel, Samuel Delany
A discussion of this Nebula-winning work, which will be led and audio-recorded by members of The Gene Wolfe Literary Podcast.
Glenn McDorman (mod), Brandon Budda
Visual arts, music, dance, dramatic performance- even the creation of speculative fiction- can't be the province of only humankind. What might these things look like on other planets? What about types of art created for sensory systems we don't have?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Stephanie Burke, Robert C. Roman, Peter Prellwitz, Michael Hanson
For many years, one of the hallmarks of anime has been progressive story arcs where characters evolve across episodes and seasons. Compare this to episodic Western animation where status quo is king. However, due in part to Western animators who grew up on anime, this is beginning to change. This panel will examine how this and many other attributes of anime have influenced and inspired Western animation.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Carl Paolino, Brian T. Graening-Price
When can science fiction most effectively mix with horror, fantasy, mysteries or any other genre? What ways can the boundaries of genres can be experimented with? Who's written excellent examples of this?
Gil Cnaan (mod), Michael Swanwick, Karalyn Morris, Stephanie Burke, Shannon O’Shea, Aaron Rosenberg
The pain! Oh dear God, the pain!! How could you ever allow these shows to see the light of day?! Do you think sanity is overrated? Want utter oblivion to be your best friend? Strap yourselves in for the worst of the worst the animation industry has to offer!
Brian T. Graening-Price (mod), Stephanie Burke
From #InOurOwnVoices to "Comicsgate", there's a lot to be said about the evolving face- and body- of fiction across all media types. A frank discussion of the considerations involved when creating content intended to depict characters who are different from you, and the impact it can have on your readers, viewers, listeners, and fellow fans.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Savan Gupta, Gil Cnaan, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson
What exactly is our fascination with dinosaurs, Godzilla, and other creatures that could step on us without noticing?
Nicholas Kaufmann (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Tony Finan, D.L. Carter, Eric Parmer, Stephanie Burke
Many animations have been ahead of the social curve. Tezuka's Bagi protested animal experimentation in 1984. More recently, Golden Kamuy features an Ainu main character, while Code Geass depicts Japanese people being treated like Koreans have been treated in Japan. This panel will delve into the ways in which anime has challenged the social norms of Japan from the past to the present.
Robert Fenelon (mod), Ben Jorritsma, Stephanie Burke, Walter Amos
Do you keep walking by the "anime track", but aren't really sure about this anime stuff? Are you curious, but don't know where to start? This the panel for you! In this panel, we'll discuss some great series and movies for beginners to the anime, where you can watch them, and ways they may be both different and similar to traditional U.S. fare. Bring your favorite movie or genre, and we'll try find a show for you!
Kristyn Souder (mod), Stephanie Burke, Kim Kindya, Robert Fenelon, Robert C. Roman, Tim Souder
The movie blew all of us- and the box office expectations- out of the water. What can we expect to see next in Wakanda? How will the events of Infinity War affect their previous status quo?
Charlie Robertson (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Stephanie Burke, Gil Cnaan, Savan Gupta, F. M. Yates
We all remember when cartoons were nice and safe for kids...or were they? Sift through the subtext and you can see how shocking and tradition-defying they were, and still are to this day.
Brian T. Graening-Price (mod), Robert Fenelon, Stephanie Burke
A guide to keeping your characters safe, sane, and not turned into an equal volume of spiders.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Leigh Grossman, Ian Hanley, Gil Cnaan, Robert C. Roman
Robert C. Roman (mod), Miriam Seidel, Stephanie Burke
How do we expect to change the galactic landscape in an ethical way, and what can we do as humans to decrease our impact on it? What does it mean to establish human settlements on worlds not our own? A discussion of space travel, space colonies, and morality.
Jazz Hiestand (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Tom Purdom, Tobias Cabral, Joseph Haughey
Since the days of H.G. Wells, Mars has figured greatly in SF. How have SF views of Mars changed as our understanding of the planet grew. Why does it still matter today?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), John Ashmead, Michael D'Ambrosio, Paul Levinson, Tobias Cabral
From casual social situations to job interviews, what signals are you sending?
Phil Giunta (mod), Tobias Cabral, Mary Spila
It has been 35 years since Bruce Bethke’s genre-defining short story “Cyberpunk” was published in Amazing Stories. Since then we've had stories such as Neuromancer, Max Headroom, Hackers, The Matrix, and Ready Player One. Are tales of a highly-networked technological dystopian futures *too* relevant to be feel like fantasy these days?
Tobias Cabral (mod), Bruce Dykes, Nathan Lilly, Aaron Rosenberg
A walkthrough for designing a stage character with their own background, history, circumstances, quirks and unique flair. Our questionnaire will lead participants through the process of identifying their interests, experiences, and knowledge in order to inform the process of re-defining themselves.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch, Courtney Capacea
Is your character in need of justice? For the past fourteen years, the officers of Cosplay Court Case have arbitrated grievances across fandoms of all genres with assistance from audience members in this widely-loved improv event. So whether you're a Pokemon looking to file a restraining order against Ash Ketchum, Hondo Ohnaka suing the Jedi Council for wage theft, or want Fox McCloud tried for war crimes, come get yourself on the docket!
Savan Gupta (mod), Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch, Courtney Capacea, Robert C. Roman, Tauney Kennedy
What exactly is our fascination with dinosaurs, Godzilla, and other creatures that could step on us without noticing?
Nicholas Kaufmann (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Tony Finan, D.L. Carter, Eric Parmer, Stephanie Burke
...and how do I write one??
Joan Wendland (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Erin M. Hartshorn, Shannon O’Shea, D.L. Carter, Sally Wiener Grotta
Even established long-term professional writers still work to improve their skills. Authors discuss things they have learned along the way, and how they have gained new levels of expertise.
D.L. Carter (mod), Gregory Frost, Alyce Wilson, Joshua Palmatier, Sally Wiener Grotta, Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen
Visual arts, music, dance, dramatic performance- even the creation of speculative fiction- can't be the province of only humankind. What might these things look like on other planets? What about types of art created for sensory systems we don't have?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Stephanie Burke, Robert C. Roman, Peter Prellwitz, Michael Hanson
Falling asleep for a hundred years is so passe. What are some fun, fresh, modern enchantments you can use to put your protagonists to the test?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Gordon Linzner, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Elektra Hammond, Alex Shvartsman
What creative and original - but scientifically plausible - ways are left for storytellers to destroy the world?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Joshua Palmatier, Karen Heuler, Eric Hardenbrook, Jim Stratton
How do you design characters that your audience will find not only three-dimensional, but *memorable*? What will adding a dash of this or that personality trait do to your audience's opinion of them?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Steven Brust, Alan P. Smale, Philippa Ballantine, Michael A. Ventrella
You want your audience drawn into the tension of suspenseful moments, not muttering, "Why didn't they just pack spare batteries?" during them. How do you develop plot devices that won't leave readers questioning your characters' intelligence?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Michael D'Ambrosio, Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Michael Swanwick, Aaron Rosenberg
You've got maps, star charts, cultures developed for a multitude of different races, and a timeline of the main historical developments over the last 1,000 years. But what you don't have is any clue what to do with it all! Let's see if we can help with that...
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Brenda W. Clough, John Monahan, Mike McPhail, Russell J. Handelman
We've talked a lot over the years about how to avoid infodumping, or at least, giving your readers information in a way that is entertaining and easy to parse. But sometimes the question you ought to ask is not how to insert all the facts about the world you've built, but "is it necessary?"
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Steven Brust, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Bernie Mojzes, Danielle Ackley-McPhail
Neil Clarke (mod), Joan Wendland
Creating empathy for humanity's not-quite-human creations was groundbreaking with Frankenstein, but now, stories told from the perspective of A.I. are common enough that they've become their own sub-genre. How do these stories affect how we perceive ourselves? Have we reached the point where we have more empathy for robots than we do for other humans?
Joan Wendland (mod), Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Barna William Donovan, Neil Clarke, David Walton
Magazine and small press editors discuss what goes into creating their publications, from the economics of staying viable in the electronic age to getting appropriate submissions.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Joshua Palmatier, Alex Shvartsman, Neil Clarke, Ian Randal Strock
Beta-readers, developmental editors, copyeditors, proofreaders... What do I need, where do I find it, and how much will it cost?
Brenda W. Clough (mod), John Skylar, Ann Stolinsky, Alex Shvartsman, Ian Randal Strock, Michael Hanson
A guide for horror and mystery writers. (Not murderers!)
Erin M. Hartshorn (mod), Roberta Rogow, Nicholas Kaufmann, Elizabeth Crowens, Brenda W. Clough, Russ Colchamiro
Brenda W. Clough (mod), April Grey, Glenn McDorman
You've got maps, star charts, cultures developed for a multitude of different races, and a timeline of the main historical developments over the last 1,000 years. But what you don't have is any clue what to do with it all! Let's see if we can help with that...
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Brenda W. Clough, John Monahan, Mike McPhail, Russell J. Handelman
When can science fiction most effectively mix with horror, fantasy, mysteries or any other genre? What ways can the boundaries of genres can be experimented with? Who's written excellent examples of this?
Gil Cnaan (mod), Michael Swanwick, Karalyn Morris, Stephanie Burke, Shannon O’Shea, Aaron Rosenberg
Gil Cnaan (mod)
From #InOurOwnVoices to "Comicsgate", there's a lot to be said about the evolving face- and body- of fiction across all media types. A frank discussion of the considerations involved when creating content intended to depict characters who are different from you, and the impact it can have on your readers, viewers, listeners, and fellow fans.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Savan Gupta, Gil Cnaan, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson
The movie blew all of us- and the box office expectations- out of the water. What can we expect to see next in Wakanda? How will the events of Infinity War affect their previous status quo?
Charlie Robertson (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Stephanie Burke, Gil Cnaan, Savan Gupta, F. M. Yates
A guide to keeping your characters safe, sane, and not turned into an equal volume of spiders.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Leigh Grossman, Ian Hanley, Gil Cnaan, Robert C. Roman
It's a Tingler alright!
Gil Cnaan (mod)
Analyzing the works of Michael Moorcock and their impact of the Steampunk and Speculative Fiction genres. How do the concepts of the Multiverse, String Theory, Cosmic Foam, and Plato’s Sphere come into play?
Savan Gupta (mod), Gil Cnaan, Mark Singer, Tauney Kennedy, F. M. Yates, Robert C. Roman
What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?
Leigh Grossman (mod), Elektra Hammond, Tom Purdom, Gil Cnaan, Carl Fink
When is it better to shop your book around to publishers, and when does it make more sense to put it out yourself?
Chris Kreuter (mod), Paul Levinson, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, April Grey, Michael D'Ambrosio, Russ Colchamiro
Indie writers talk about their marketing successes and fails. How do you set realistic expectations for the response to your efforts?
Ken Altabef (mod), John Skylar, Paul Levinson, Russ Colchamiro, Michael Hanson
A guide for horror and mystery writers. (Not murderers!)
Erin M. Hartshorn (mod), Roberta Rogow, Nicholas Kaufmann, Elizabeth Crowens, Brenda W. Clough, Russ Colchamiro
What to expect from signing up, to receiving your first award.
Byron Connell (mod), Pam Smith, Heidi Hooper, Diane Kovalcin
What elements contribute to the construction, aesthetic, and cultural significance of your characters' clothing? What does it imply about the world they live in?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Byron Connell, Muriel Stockdale, Tom Purdom, Susan Shwartz
The source of the popularization of Celtic myth, fairies, and ghost stories, what does modern fantasy owe to developments of the Victorian era?
Philippa Ballantine (mod), Mary Spila, Linda J. Lee, Elizabeth Crowens
A guide for horror and mystery writers. (Not murderers!)
Erin M. Hartshorn (mod), Roberta Rogow, Nicholas Kaufmann, Elizabeth Crowens, Brenda W. Clough, Russ Colchamiro
April Grey (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Sally Wiener Grotta, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Roberta Rogow, Elektra Hammond
...and how do I write one??
Joan Wendland (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Erin M. Hartshorn, Shannon O’Shea, D.L. Carter, Sally Wiener Grotta
What elements should you keep in mind while writing a novel if you're hoping to eventually see it onscreen?
Richard Stout (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Barna William Donovan, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Carl Paolino, Michael D'Ambrosio
Join artist Charlene D’Alessio for a drawing workshop. Materials and references will be provided.
Charlene Taylor D'Alessio (mod)
When is it better to shop your book around to publishers, and when does it make more sense to put it out yourself?
Chris Kreuter (mod), Paul Levinson, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, April Grey, Michael D'Ambrosio, Russ Colchamiro
You want your audience drawn into the tension of suspenseful moments, not muttering, "Why didn't they just pack spare batteries?" during them. How do you develop plot devices that won't leave readers questioning your characters' intelligence?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Michael D'Ambrosio, Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Michael Swanwick, Aaron Rosenberg
Since the days of H.G. Wells, Mars has figured greatly in SF. How have SF views of Mars changed as our understanding of the planet grew. Why does it still matter today?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), John Ashmead, Michael D'Ambrosio, Paul Levinson, Tobias Cabral
A discussion of conspiracy theories, secret societies, and themes of cover-ups / the creation of a false consciousness by shadowy organizations in science fiction. Should we be concerned about how paranoid society seems to be getting? Or is it all just a government ploy...
Michael A. Ventrella (mod), Michael D'Ambrosio, Mark Singer, Martin Berman-Gorvine, Kevin Patterson
What elements should you keep in mind while writing a novel if you're hoping to eventually see it onscreen?
Richard Stout (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Barna William Donovan, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Carl Paolino, Michael D'Ambrosio
After briefly convening for their November meeting, members of The Philadelphia Science Fiction Society- the organization behind Philcon- will answer any questions you have about the event and what to expect for the weekend.
Todd Dashoff (mod), Gary Feldbaum, Charlie Robertson
A look back at the nominees for the 2018 Hugo Awards, as well as a discussion of other works we feel were equally deserving.
Terry Steiner Sisk Graybill (mod), Miriam Seidel, David Walton, Todd Dashoff
What would you like to say about this year's convention? How can Philcon provide for your interests in future years?
Todd Dashoff (mod), Lynati, Terry Steiner Sisk Graybill, Kristyn Souder
Whether you are designing a new campaign setting for an RPG, or looking to create a world for your fantasy fiction, the creation of a pantheon will be an important part of the process. We'll discuss how the world shapes religion, and how religion shapes the people and culture. A useful guide to help writers organize their thoughts and to craft a believable set of gods and goddesses for their fantasy realms!
Julie Ann Dawson (mod)
This panel will provide both writers and RPG designers with an easy-to-follow process for creating a functional and believable setting. Whether you are creating a small town or an entire galaxy, you'll find the methodology outlined in this workshop helpful to keeping your world building on the right track.
Julie Ann Dawson (mod)
Are you an experienced D&D Player but want to run a campaign for the first time? Not sure where to start in running a Tabletop RPG? Join us for the tips and tricks to help you get started.
James Hicks (mod), Nathan Thatcher, Michael Ryan, Julie Ann Dawson
Fifty years after World War III, pockets of civilization try to flourish in the ruins of the old world. You lived a quiet life in a small farming settlement...until slavers raided your community and took you captive. Separated from your friends and family, you found yourself on a slave transport going to a place called Hopewell in Louisiana. And were it not for the...thing...that attached the transport, you would still be destined for slavery. But now, you and your fellow escapees must transverse the Louisiana swamps and marshes to find civilization, while avoiding the remaining slavers that want to recapture you and that...thing...that is still out there. How long can you last with on just your wits and the limited supplies you can scavenge? Players will be given pre-generated character sheets and will take on the role of an escapee from a slave transport. Uses variant d20 Modern/OGL rules. Players should bring their own dice.
Julie Ann Dawson (mod)
Samuel Delany (mod), Barna William Donovan, Mark Wolverton
Samuel Delany (mod), Barna William Donovan
You may write the best dialogue, descriptions, or sentences ever to see print, but the art of presenting your work orally presents a different set of challenges. Let's go over what they are, and how to overcome them.
Samuel Delany (mod)
Remembering Gardner Dozois -- A gathering to honor Philadelphia’s own Gardner Dozois. In addition to his 15 Hugos as Best Editor, he was two-time Nebula winner for short fiction as a writer, the founder and editor of the Year's Best Science Fiction anthologies, and editor of Isaac Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine for 20 years. Come join us in celebrating his life.
David M. Axler (mod), Tom Purdom, Samuel Delany, Michael Swanwick, Tess Kissinger, Robert Walters
A discussion of the making and production of the original 1933 fantasy adventure classic and its lasting cultural significance, as well as its countless remakes, sequels, and reboots. Join film scholar Steve Vertlieb and writer Richard Stout for this loving remembrance of, perhaps, the greatest "Monster" film of all time.
Steve Vertlieb (mod), Richard Stout, Carl Paolino, Samuel Delany
"Fifty years ago, Stanley Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke set out to make a new kind of sci-fi. How does their future look now that it’s the past?" This question was asked in a recent article in The New Yorker, and now we're asking you.
Jeff Warner (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Alyce Wilson, Brandon Budda, Daniel Kimmel, Samuel Delany
Samuel Delany (mod), Barna William Donovan, Mark Wolverton
Samuel Delany (mod), Barna William Donovan
Have a theory about season two's timeline? Speculation about where the show will go next? Want to discuss what it means to be human in a world that we now know can [REDACTED], or whether or not you're ready to welcome our new android overlords? Because we do!
Barna William Donovan (mod), Paul Levinson, Anastasia Klimchynskaya
We all know that Warner Brothers has had a bit of the problem with their DCEU movies. But the latest trailers for Aquaman & SHAZAM look like they’re finally turning the page to a Brand New Day...
Barna William Donovan (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Andre Lieven, Orenthal Hawkins
Creating empathy for humanity's not-quite-human creations was groundbreaking with Frankenstein, but now, stories told from the perspective of A.I. are common enough that they've become their own sub-genre. How do these stories affect how we perceive ourselves? Have we reached the point where we have more empathy for robots than we do for other humans?
Joan Wendland (mod), Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Barna William Donovan, Neil Clarke, David Walton
What elements should you keep in mind while writing a novel if you're hoping to eventually see it onscreen?
Richard Stout (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Barna William Donovan, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Carl Paolino, Michael D'Ambrosio
Is the reboot of the franchise a deserving successor to the original series? Do the modern-day "prequels" reflect a change in how we view our world- and humanity's place in it?
Ken Altabef (mod), Barna William Donovan, Kim Kindya
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
Expected to be just another silly spoof, The Orville turned out to be a show that takes on serious issues in a lighthearted manner. How has The Orville been making its mark independent of the franchises that inspired it?
Ty Drago (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, James Prego, Chris Kreuter, Andre Lieven
As a theme and an image in science fiction. Think of Ghost in the Shell, Blade Runner, New York 2140, and Metropolis. How does the nature of a city inform the stories set within it?
Carl Paolino (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Tom Purdom, Kim Kindya, Eric Parmer, Ty Drago
There's a lot to unpack in this one...where to begin? What does Michael represent in the growth of how female characters have been depicted in the franchise? Did they portray PTSD realistically? How effective was their commentary on contemporary issues? Given how many characters died overall, did the death of "minority" characters still feel like fridging?
Ty Drago (mod), Jonathan Alexandratos, Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Inge Heyer, Glenn McDorman, Jay Wile
Steven King has been called the modern Charles Dickens—and not only for his copious output. Is that a reasonable assessment? Is King entitled to Dickens' throne? If you like your panels like your martinis—with an Olive or Twist—come join the discussion.
Richard Stout (mod), Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Joan Wendland
3D printers have now been used to successfully print everything from rocket engines to human skin. How far are we from printing a cup of Earl Grey, Hot?
Earl Bennett (mod), John Monahan, Charlie Robertson, Bruce Dykes
Join us as we discuss the fact and (science) fiction of near-future space military operations.
Bob Hranek (mod), Bruce Dykes, Paul Levinson, Charlie Robertson, Mark Wolverton, Andre Lieven
A hands-on, family-friendly workshop. Learn how to put together a game of your own design with your family or friends!
Chris Kreuter (mod), Bruce Dykes, Ann Stolinsky, Virginia Swann
Cixin Liu's Dark Forest trilogy and John Scalzi's Old Man's War universe have reignited the "hostile aliens" theory. Was the Voyager map a mistake? Or will they just come for more Chuck Berry?
Bob Hranek (mod), Bruce Dykes, Tom Purdom
If you're a fan of the show, this panel is not for you. Everyone else, please join us for a delightful roast!
Bruce Dykes (mod), Tony Finan, John Skylar, Charlie Robertson
A discussion for writers of range and scope, HAM radio operation, the rise and descent of CB radio, common malfunctions and simple fixes, and where they can be found in the case of zombies.
Charlie Robertson (mod), Earl Bennett, Bruce Dykes
It has been 35 years since Bruce Bethke’s genre-defining short story “Cyberpunk” was published in Amazing Stories. Since then we've had stories such as Neuromancer, Max Headroom, Hackers, The Matrix, and Ready Player One. Are tales of a highly-networked technological dystopian futures *too* relevant to be feel like fantasy these days?
Tobias Cabral (mod), Bruce Dykes, Nathan Lilly, Aaron Rosenberg
Movie, game and comic characters are one thing, but what if you want to dress up as one from a book, or even your own original character? What do you need to take into consideration?
Muriel Stockdale (mod), Carl Paolino, Sarah Sanders, Anastasia Holt, Amy Fass
Amy Fass (mod), Ian Hanley
A dramatized recitation of Lewis Carroll's classic nonsense poem, with different voices for all the speaking characters.
Amy Fass (mod)
Fabric is great, but there’s so much more out there. Let’s talk about incorporating found objects and unconventional materials in props and costumes.
Sarah Sanders (mod), Carl Paolino, Heidi Hooper, Amy Fass
After briefly convening for their November meeting, members of The Philadelphia Science Fiction Society- the organization behind Philcon- will answer any questions you have about the event and what to expect for the weekend.
Todd Dashoff (mod), Gary Feldbaum, Charlie Robertson
It's the first day of your unpaid internship at the Dragon Turtle Back Zoo, where the curious from every nation come to see the most exotic and dangerous monsters in the world. You hope to parlay this valuable learning experience into a long and distinguished career in cryptozoology (or least some college credit), but first you have to survive your new boss. Adventure for 1st level D&D 5E characters, pre-generated character sheets will be provided.
Aaron Feldman (mod)
Allan Steele has recently published a Captain Future novel. Can SF, which deliberately evokes older science fiction, still be regarded as speculative, or is it an alternate universe fantasy?
Jeff Warner (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Russell J. Handelman, Aaron Feldman
Despite a long history in fiction of solo geniuses making the ultimate breakthroughs in their basement labs, collaboration is necessary for scientific advancement. So why do we glorify the loner scientist trope? Can we make collaborative science feel equally heroic? How do we portray science being done realistically while still meeting the needs of the story?
Jim Stratton (mod), John Ashmead, Aaron Feldman, Anna Kashina, Alan P. Smale, Tee Morris
When most people think of sci-fi anime they think of legendary giant robots, but some sci-fi anime gets the science more right than you may think!
Walter Amos (mod), Robert Fenelon, Ben Jorritsma, Robert C. Roman
Join us as we discuss the all-too-rare accurate depictions of military hardware, tactics and strategy in animation.
Robert Fenelon (mod), Brian T. Graening-Price, Walter Amos, Robert C. Roman
Many animations have been ahead of the social curve. Tezuka's Bagi protested animal experimentation in 1984. More recently, Golden Kamuy features an Ainu main character, while Code Geass depicts Japanese people being treated like Koreans have been treated in Japan. This panel will delve into the ways in which anime has challenged the social norms of Japan from the past to the present.
Robert Fenelon (mod), Ben Jorritsma, Stephanie Burke, Walter Amos
Do you keep walking by the "anime track", but aren't really sure about this anime stuff? Are you curious, but don't know where to start? This the panel for you! In this panel, we'll discuss some great series and movies for beginners to the anime, where you can watch them, and ways they may be both different and similar to traditional U.S. fare. Bring your favorite movie or genre, and we'll try find a show for you!
Kristyn Souder (mod), Stephanie Burke, Kim Kindya, Robert Fenelon, Robert C. Roman, Tim Souder
Once upon a time in the West, the profession of "Princessing" was little more than glittering gowns, fuzzy woodland creatures, saccharine sing-a-longs and sporadic spunkiness. Enter the 21st Century: the next generation of animators, empowered by social change and raised on bolder, Eastern animated faire, has raised the bar for awe-inspiring animated royalty. Join us as we showcase examples, both Eastern and Western, of these heavy heads that wear the crown.
Brian T. Graening-Price (mod), Robert Fenelon
We all remember when cartoons were nice and safe for kids...or were they? Sift through the subtext and you can see how shocking and tradition-defying they were, and still are to this day.
Brian T. Graening-Price (mod), Robert Fenelon, Stephanie Burke
Bugging out or locking down, let's talk about how to prepare for various emergency situations. What do you need in your survival kit?
Tony Finan (mod), Jazz Hiestand, Nathan Lilly
What exactly is our fascination with dinosaurs, Godzilla, and other creatures that could step on us without noticing?
Nicholas Kaufmann (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Tony Finan, D.L. Carter, Eric Parmer, Stephanie Burke
Whether it was because of a surprise cancellation that left us with a massive cliffhanger, or the intentional plotting of a Machiavellian team of writers, some series ended in ways that- even years later- make us want to shriek. What finale left you agape?
Tony Finan (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Alyce Wilson, Hildy Silverman, Tee Morris
If you're a fan of the show, this panel is not for you. Everyone else, please join us for a delightful roast!
Bruce Dykes (mod), Tony Finan, John Skylar, Charlie Robertson
Recently made available streaming on Amazon Prime, this pioneering Science Fiction TV show featured a fully-plotted story arc for each season, even as each episode told a single story. Fans both old and new will share reasons why *you* should watch it...while avoiding spoilers.
Tony Finan (mod), Ken Altabef, Elektra Hammond, Tim Souder, Lawrence Kramer, Mark Wolverton
Exploring the works of our Principal Speaker.
Joan Wendland (mod), Lawrence M. Schoen, Carl Fink
What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?
Leigh Grossman (mod), Elektra Hammond, Tom Purdom, Gil Cnaan, Carl Fink
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
Who your narrator is, how the story is perceived, and where the “camera” is can make all the difference in the success or failure in a story. What stories have used these elements in successful ways?
Jim Stratton (mod), Steven Brust, Dina Leacock, Bernie Mojzes, Gregory Frost, Muriel Stockdale
Even established long-term professional writers still work to improve their skills. Authors discuss things they have learned along the way, and how they have gained new levels of expertise.
D.L. Carter (mod), Gregory Frost, Alyce Wilson, Joshua Palmatier, Sally Wiener Grotta, Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen
Tips on how to answer moderator questions, audience questions, not monopolize the panel, get a word in edgewise, combat imposter syndrome, and other aspects of handling your appearance as a Panel Presenter at cons.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Alyce Wilson, Joseph Haughey, Lawrence Kramer, Phil Giunta
Phil Giunta (mod), Steve Wilson
Ellison was a prolific writer of short stories, novellas, teleplays, essays, and criticism, with over 1,700 works to his name. What impact did he have on genre storytelling? What were his best works?
Phil Giunta (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Mark Wolverton, Dina Leacock, Jay Smith
From casual social situations to job interviews, what signals are you sending?
Phil Giunta (mod), Tobias Cabral, Mary Spila
How can science fiction help us become more socially aware? What allows science fiction to address social issues in unique ways not found in other forms of literature, and how can we meaningfully use it to better our society?
Rebecca Robare (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Simone Zelitch, Phil Giunta, Michael A. Ventrella, Anastasia Klimchynskaya
Kathy Sands (mod), Marc Glasser
For many years, one of the hallmarks of anime has been progressive story arcs where characters evolve across episodes and seasons. Compare this to episodic Western animation where status quo is king. However, due in part to Western animators who grew up on anime, this is beginning to change. This panel will examine how this and many other attributes of anime have influenced and inspired Western animation.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Carl Paolino, Brian T. Graening-Price
Join us as we discuss the all-too-rare accurate depictions of military hardware, tactics and strategy in animation.
Robert Fenelon (mod), Brian T. Graening-Price, Walter Amos, Robert C. Roman
The pain! Oh dear God, the pain!! How could you ever allow these shows to see the light of day?! Do you think sanity is overrated? Want utter oblivion to be your best friend? Strap yourselves in for the worst of the worst the animation industry has to offer!
Brian T. Graening-Price (mod), Stephanie Burke
Once upon a time in the West, the profession of "Princessing" was little more than glittering gowns, fuzzy woodland creatures, saccharine sing-a-longs and sporadic spunkiness. Enter the 21st Century: the next generation of animators, empowered by social change and raised on bolder, Eastern animated faire, has raised the bar for awe-inspiring animated royalty. Join us as we showcase examples, both Eastern and Western, of these heavy heads that wear the crown.
Brian T. Graening-Price (mod), Robert Fenelon
We all remember when cartoons were nice and safe for kids...or were they? Sift through the subtext and you can see how shocking and tradition-defying they were, and still are to this day.
Brian T. Graening-Price (mod), Robert Fenelon, Stephanie Burke
A look back at the nominees for the 2018 Hugo Awards, as well as a discussion of other works we feel were equally deserving.
Terry Steiner Sisk Graybill (mod), Miriam Seidel, David Walton, Todd Dashoff
What would you like to say about this year's convention? How can Philcon provide for your interests in future years?
Todd Dashoff (mod), Lynati, Terry Steiner Sisk Graybill, Kristyn Souder
When is it better to shop your book around to publishers, and when does it make more sense to put it out yourself?
Chris Kreuter (mod), Paul Levinson, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, April Grey, Michael D'Ambrosio, Russ Colchamiro
How to plan the project, manage time, and stay on budget.
Mike McPhail (mod), Chris Kreuter, John Skylar, Glenn Hauman, Aaron Rosenberg, April Grey
April Grey (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Sally Wiener Grotta, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Roberta Rogow, Elektra Hammond
Brenda W. Clough (mod), April Grey, Glenn McDorman
Ken Altabef (mod), April Grey
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
Realistically writing PTSD induced by speculative scenarios.
Leigh Grossman (mod), Jay Smith, Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Robert C. Roman
Tom Purdom (mod), Michael A. Ventrella, Leigh Grossman
Leigh Grossman (mod), Michael A. Ventrella
A guide to keeping your characters safe, sane, and not turned into an equal volume of spiders.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Leigh Grossman, Ian Hanley, Gil Cnaan, Robert C. Roman
Steven King has been called the modern Charles Dickens—and not only for his copious output. Is that a reasonable assessment? Is King entitled to Dickens' throne? If you like your panels like your martinis—with an Olive or Twist—come join the discussion.
Richard Stout (mod), Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Joan Wendland
What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?
Leigh Grossman (mod), Elektra Hammond, Tom Purdom, Gil Cnaan, Carl Fink
Roberta Rogow (mod), Marc Grossman
How much actual supernaturalism or other fantastic elements (dragons, magic, elves, etc.) does a fantasy story require? There are examples of books marketed as fantasy, set in imaginary places, that contain no fantastic elements- How do they function within the genre?
Jim Stratton (mod), Ken Altabef, Sally Wiener Grotta, Carl Paolino, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Anna Kashina
Joshua Palmatier (mod), Anna Kashina, Sally Wiener Grotta
April Grey (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Sally Wiener Grotta, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Roberta Rogow, Elektra Hammond
...and how do I write one??
Joan Wendland (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Erin M. Hartshorn, Shannon O’Shea, D.L. Carter, Sally Wiener Grotta
Even established long-term professional writers still work to improve their skills. Authors discuss things they have learned along the way, and how they have gained new levels of expertise.
D.L. Carter (mod), Gregory Frost, Alyce Wilson, Joshua Palmatier, Sally Wiener Grotta, Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen
Brigand Rohan Mauryan Balraj and his crew present an all-ages storytelling session featuring Vedic tales...with a twist! What will it be tonight? The Cycle of Shiva, Sati & Ganesh as a Domestic Dispute? Incarnations of Vishnu as WWE encounters? (Audience participation strongly encouraged!)
Savan Gupta (mod), F. M. Yates, Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch
A new story for a new hour! Join master storyteller Brigand Rohan Mauryan Balraj and his crew for another Vedic tale with a twist!
Savan Gupta (mod), F. M. Yates, Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch
From #InOurOwnVoices to "Comicsgate", there's a lot to be said about the evolving face- and body- of fiction across all media types. A frank discussion of the considerations involved when creating content intended to depict characters who are different from you, and the impact it can have on your readers, viewers, listeners, and fellow fans.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Savan Gupta, Gil Cnaan, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson
In the last year Marvel made us laugh with Ant-Man and The Wasp, cry with Guardians 2, and flat-out blew us away with Black Panther. And after spending the last ten years building up the teams, themes, and story elements necessary for Infinity War, the film appeared to tear the whole universe apart. So...what happens next?
Jay Smith (mod), Savan Gupta, Tauney Kennedy, Victoria Janssen, Kim Kindya, Glenn Hauman
The movie blew all of us- and the box office expectations- out of the water. What can we expect to see next in Wakanda? How will the events of Infinity War affect their previous status quo?
Charlie Robertson (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Stephanie Burke, Gil Cnaan, Savan Gupta, F. M. Yates
An analysis of tropes in Steampunk and SF such as Multiverse Theory, Clockworks, and Airships and the origins of these concepts in cultures outside of England, with a particular focus on India and Persia.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch
An exploration of Vedic & Southeast Asian SF & F through the numerous instances, concepts and derivative works produced by both Western and Eastern presses. We'll talk about Scripture, Literature, Saga Poetry, Graphic Novels, RPGs and more, from the Rg Veda and Ramayana 3392 A.D. to Escher and Exalted RPG.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, F. M. Yates
So that Magic Sword is looking dull? That Laser Rifle doesn’t quite pew-pew like it used to? We'll take a look at both fantasy and postmodern armaments in Fantasy and SF Roleplaying Games, with a specific eye to synergy and implementation, as well as item creation, placement and team management from either side of the table.
Savan Gupta (mod), Zee Bowditch, Tauney Kennedy
A walkthrough for designing a stage character with their own background, history, circumstances, quirks and unique flair. Our questionnaire will lead participants through the process of identifying their interests, experiences, and knowledge in order to inform the process of re-defining themselves.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch, Courtney Capacea
Is your character in need of justice? For the past fourteen years, the officers of Cosplay Court Case have arbitrated grievances across fandoms of all genres with assistance from audience members in this widely-loved improv event. So whether you're a Pokemon looking to file a restraining order against Ash Ketchum, Hondo Ohnaka suing the Jedi Council for wage theft, or want Fox McCloud tried for war crimes, come get yourself on the docket!
Savan Gupta (mod), Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch, Courtney Capacea, Robert C. Roman, Tauney Kennedy
Analyzing the works of Michael Moorcock and their impact of the Steampunk and Speculative Fiction genres. How do the concepts of the Multiverse, String Theory, Cosmic Foam, and Plato’s Sphere come into play?
Savan Gupta (mod), Gil Cnaan, Mark Singer, Tauney Kennedy, F. M. Yates, Robert C. Roman
Falling asleep for a hundred years is so passe. What are some fun, fresh, modern enchantments you can use to put your protagonists to the test?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Gordon Linzner, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Elektra Hammond, Alex Shvartsman
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
April Grey (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Sally Wiener Grotta, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Roberta Rogow, Elektra Hammond
Anne McCaffrey's longest-running series was a trailblazing hybrid of fantasy and science fiction. What impact has it had on SF, fantasy, and multi-genre works? How well does it hold up when viewed in the present era?
Victoria Janssen (mod), Hildy Silverman, Phillip Thorne, Elektra Hammond
Recently made available streaming on Amazon Prime, this pioneering Science Fiction TV show featured a fully-plotted story arc for each season, even as each episode told a single story. Fans both old and new will share reasons why *you* should watch it...while avoiding spoilers.
Tony Finan (mod), Ken Altabef, Elektra Hammond, Tim Souder, Lawrence Kramer, Mark Wolverton
What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?
Leigh Grossman (mod), Elektra Hammond, Tom Purdom, Gil Cnaan, Carl Fink
Advice and suggestions for creative professionals—writers and artists—on management and organization of their finances, personal planning for the future (savings, insurance, bequests), and whatever else may be of concern to those “working without a net” of corporate benefits.
Susan Shwartz (mod), Russell J. Handelman, Erin M. Hartshorn, Ian Randal Strock
DS9 was singular in the Trekverse for its dramatic and often troubling depictions of interstellar politics, from people of honor and ideals frequently being forced to question or compromise their beliefs, to those who make no pretense of using any ends to justify their means. For the 25th anniversary of its premiere, a discussion of the series and its eerie prescience regarding real-world political conflicts and issues since its airing.
Russell J. Handelman (mod), Susan Shwartz, Daniel Kimmel, Jonathan Alexandratos, Orenthal Hawkins, Rebecca Robare
Allan Steele has recently published a Captain Future novel. Can SF, which deliberately evokes older science fiction, still be regarded as speculative, or is it an alternate universe fantasy?
Jeff Warner (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Russell J. Handelman, Aaron Feldman
You've got maps, star charts, cultures developed for a multitude of different races, and a timeline of the main historical developments over the last 1,000 years. But what you don't have is any clue what to do with it all! Let's see if we can help with that...
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Brenda W. Clough, John Monahan, Mike McPhail, Russell J. Handelman
Amy Fass (mod), Ian Hanley
A guide to keeping your characters safe, sane, and not turned into an equal volume of spiders.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Leigh Grossman, Ian Hanley, Gil Cnaan, Robert C. Roman
Visual arts, music, dance, dramatic performance- even the creation of speculative fiction- can't be the province of only humankind. What might these things look like on other planets? What about types of art created for sensory systems we don't have?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Stephanie Burke, Robert C. Roman, Peter Prellwitz, Michael Hanson
Beta-readers, developmental editors, copyeditors, proofreaders... What do I need, where do I find it, and how much will it cost?
Brenda W. Clough (mod), John Skylar, Ann Stolinsky, Alex Shvartsman, Ian Randal Strock, Michael Hanson
Indie writers talk about their marketing successes and fails. How do you set realistic expectations for the response to your efforts?
Ken Altabef (mod), John Skylar, Paul Levinson, Russ Colchamiro, Michael Hanson
People differ in how they read (or listen) to a story. They may read fast or linger over the text. They may search back for “clues” or just go for the ride. How can the different modes impact your experience?
Brandon Budda (mod), Alyce Wilson, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Eric Hardenbrook, Glenn McDorman
What creative and original - but scientifically plausible - ways are left for storytellers to destroy the world?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Joshua Palmatier, Karen Heuler, Eric Hardenbrook, Jim Stratton
What are the best art applications? Platforms? Where do I learn to use them? Is a digital pen and tablet needed?
Ray Ridenour (mod), Alan Beck, Eric Hardenbrook, Nathan Lilly, Mike McPhail
You don't have to be a book blogger to join us!
Eric Hardenbrook (mod)
Science Fiction is the genre best suited for ideas that challenge the status quo, because it is not bound by our reality as we know it. At the same time, SF has existed for long enough that it has become full of ossified paradigms that no longer force us to examine our perspectives. How do we keep our ideas relevant given the evolutionary nature of the genre while also dealing with the natural tendency of fiction to recycle cliches, frameworks, and touchstones that are familiar to us?
Michael Swanwick (mod), Martin Berman-Gorvine, Eric Hardenbrook, Mike McPhail, Peter Prellwitz
A guide for horror and mystery writers. (Not murderers!)
Erin M. Hartshorn (mod), Roberta Rogow, Nicholas Kaufmann, Elizabeth Crowens, Brenda W. Clough, Russ Colchamiro
Advice and suggestions for creative professionals—writers and artists—on management and organization of their finances, personal planning for the future (savings, insurance, bequests), and whatever else may be of concern to those “working without a net” of corporate benefits.
Susan Shwartz (mod), Russell J. Handelman, Erin M. Hartshorn, Ian Randal Strock
...and how do I write one??
Joan Wendland (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Erin M. Hartshorn, Shannon O’Shea, D.L. Carter, Sally Wiener Grotta
Tips on how to answer moderator questions, audience questions, not monopolize the panel, get a word in edgewise, combat imposter syndrome, and other aspects of handling your appearance as a Panel Presenter at cons.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Alyce Wilson, Joseph Haughey, Lawrence Kramer, Phil Giunta
Joseph Haughey (mod)
How do we expect to change the galactic landscape in an ethical way, and what can we do as humans to decrease our impact on it? What does it mean to establish human settlements on worlds not our own? A discussion of space travel, space colonies, and morality.
Jazz Hiestand (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Tom Purdom, Tobias Cabral, Joseph Haughey
Steve Ditko was a major creative force in the creation of Marvel Comics. He was the original artist and co-creator of Spider-Man, crucial in the creation and visual design of Dr. Strange, originated the DC characters The Creeper, Hawk, Dove, & Shade the Changing Man, as well as ones Alan Moore used in his original pitch for the Watchmen.
F. M. Yates (mod), Pam Smith, Glenn Hauman
How to plan the project, manage time, and stay on budget.
Mike McPhail (mod), Chris Kreuter, John Skylar, Glenn Hauman, Aaron Rosenberg, April Grey
How do these universes differ in the ways they depict their tech? How did the history of each world affect the invention and uses of medical devices, weaponry, methods of transportation, and robotic beings?
Jeff Warner (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Jay Wile, Anna Kashina, Glenn Hauman
In the last year Marvel made us laugh with Ant-Man and The Wasp, cry with Guardians 2, and flat-out blew us away with Black Panther. And after spending the last ten years building up the teams, themes, and story elements necessary for Infinity War, the film appeared to tear the whole universe apart. So...what happens next?
Jay Smith (mod), Savan Gupta, Tauney Kennedy, Victoria Janssen, Kim Kindya, Glenn Hauman
Just how does a "Kickstarter" work? Will Patreon's recent changes impact your ability to attract and keep Patrons? Is it worth setting up a KoFi account?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Philippa Ballantine, Alex Shvartsman, Alana Phelan, Glenn Hauman
Fourteen years ago, an animated cartoon show on Adult Swim paved the way for the idea of a shared cross continuity entertainment universe. Blending elements from comics, pulp, science fiction, spy shows, Scooby Doo, and David Bowie and putting them against the backdrop of a failed Jet Age future...and now it's back!
Orenthal Hawkins (mod), Kim Kindya, Phillip Thorne
We all know that Warner Brothers has had a bit of the problem with their DCEU movies. But the latest trailers for Aquaman & SHAZAM look like they’re finally turning the page to a Brand New Day...
Barna William Donovan (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Andre Lieven, Orenthal Hawkins
From #InOurOwnVoices to "Comicsgate", there's a lot to be said about the evolving face- and body- of fiction across all media types. A frank discussion of the considerations involved when creating content intended to depict characters who are different from you, and the impact it can have on your readers, viewers, listeners, and fellow fans.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Savan Gupta, Gil Cnaan, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson
Expected to be just another silly spoof, The Orville turned out to be a show that takes on serious issues in a lighthearted manner. How has The Orville been making its mark independent of the franchises that inspired it?
Ty Drago (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, James Prego, Chris Kreuter, Andre Lieven
The movie blew all of us- and the box office expectations- out of the water. What can we expect to see next in Wakanda? How will the events of Infinity War affect their previous status quo?
Charlie Robertson (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Stephanie Burke, Gil Cnaan, Savan Gupta, F. M. Yates
DS9 was singular in the Trekverse for its dramatic and often troubling depictions of interstellar politics, from people of honor and ideals frequently being forced to question or compromise their beliefs, to those who make no pretense of using any ends to justify their means. For the 25th anniversary of its premiere, a discussion of the series and its eerie prescience regarding real-world political conflicts and issues since its airing.
Russell J. Handelman (mod), Susan Shwartz, Daniel Kimmel, Jonathan Alexandratos, Orenthal Hawkins, Rebecca Robare
How has Science Fiction been altered and explored in the realm of player-interactive content? What impact did Metroid have on fandom and SF storytelling? What about Mass Effect?
Michael Ryan (mod), Robert C. Roman, Orenthal Hawkins
Using basic resist and wash techniques, make a lovely watercolor sunset silhouette. All materials provided. Ages 7+.
Lisa Hertel (mod)
Artists are always being asked to work for exposure. When is working for free (or “on-spec”) a bad idea? When is it a good idea? How do you know the difference?
Nathan Lilly (mod), Lisa Hertel, Heidi Hooper, Tess Kissinger, Mike McPhail, Robert Walters
This is a life drawing workshop. We will draw models with minimal instruction provided. Volunteer models welcome.
Lisa Hertel (mod)
What creative and original - but scientifically plausible - ways are left for storytellers to destroy the world?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Joshua Palmatier, Karen Heuler, Eric Hardenbrook, Jim Stratton
Writers from Tanith Lee to Cat Valente to Seanan McGuire have incorporated and transformed fairy tales in their work. How have they managed to update the stories in a manner that feels both in line with the originals and relevant to the present day? Are their adaptations actually darker than the source material, or have the Disney versions just changed what we think of as the standard?
Philippa Ballantine (mod), Kim Kindya, Mary Spila, Eric Parmer, Karen Heuler, Linda J. Lee
Hildy Silverman (mod), Karen Heuler, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell
How do these universes differ in the ways they depict their tech? How did the history of each world affect the invention and uses of medical devices, weaponry, methods of transportation, and robotic beings?
Jeff Warner (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Jay Wile, Anna Kashina, Glenn Hauman
How do we expect to change the galactic landscape in an ethical way, and what can we do as humans to decrease our impact on it? What does it mean to establish human settlements on worlds not our own? A discussion of space travel, space colonies, and morality.
Jazz Hiestand (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Tom Purdom, Tobias Cabral, Joseph Haughey
Inge Heyer (mod), Anna Kashina
There's a lot to unpack in this one...where to begin? What does Michael represent in the growth of how female characters have been depicted in the franchise? Did they portray PTSD realistically? How effective was their commentary on contemporary issues? Given how many characters died overall, did the death of "minority" characters still feel like fridging?
Ty Drago (mod), Jonathan Alexandratos, Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Inge Heyer, Glenn McDorman, Jay Wile
A look at the Mecha Genre's influence on "Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha." Nanoha Takamachi's journey may have started with saving a talking ferret, but her world has more in common with that of Gundam Pilot Amuro Ray than that of other Magical Girls. Join us as we explore how the Nanoha franchise has taken inspiration from the Mecha genre.
James Hicks (mod), Nathan Thatcher
Who is the best Evangelion Pilot? What do the last 2 episodes really mean? Is Hideaki Anno legitimately insane or just a misunderstood artist? Join us for an open debate and discussion on the groundbreaking anime "Neon Genesis Evangelion"
James Hicks (mod), Nathan Thatcher
Are you an experienced D&D Player but want to run a campaign for the first time? Not sure where to start in running a Tabletop RPG? Join us for the tips and tricks to help you get started.
James Hicks (mod), Nathan Thatcher, Michael Ryan, Julie Ann Dawson
Bugging out or locking down, let's talk about how to prepare for various emergency situations. What do you need in your survival kit?
Tony Finan (mod), Jazz Hiestand, Nathan Lilly
What effect would having two moons do to the oceans of your world? How do the orbital paths of your planets affect the transit times between them? What factors should you take into account when constructing *your* ideal star system?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Anna Kashina, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, John Monahan
How do we expect to change the galactic landscape in an ethical way, and what can we do as humans to decrease our impact on it? What does it mean to establish human settlements on worlds not our own? A discussion of space travel, space colonies, and morality.
Jazz Hiestand (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Tom Purdom, Tobias Cabral, Joseph Haughey
Just how does a "Kickstarter" work? Will Patreon's recent changes impact your ability to attract and keep Patrons? Is it worth setting up a KoFi account?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Philippa Ballantine, Alex Shvartsman, Alana Phelan, Glenn Hauman
Since the days of H.G. Wells, Mars has figured greatly in SF. How have SF views of Mars changed as our understanding of the planet grew. Why does it still matter today?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), John Ashmead, Michael D'Ambrosio, Paul Levinson, Tobias Cabral
What are the best fan developments to come out of the Harry Potter fandom? Is there enough content to keep it alive despite waning interest- and expectations- in the recent additions to the canon?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Lynati
What elements contribute to the construction, aesthetic, and cultural significance of your characters' clothing? What does it imply about the world they live in?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Byron Connell, Muriel Stockdale, Tom Purdom, Susan Shwartz
A discussion about digital customer service, self promotion, and sales skills templates that you can use every day to promote your work, and how these things are essential to selling your book or brand.
Jazz Hiestand (mod)
Or do you just want to socialize rather than shut yourself in your hotel room trying to get those last bits right? Either way, come on down!
Anastasia Holt (mod), Sarah Sanders, Pam Smith
Movie, game and comic characters are one thing, but what if you want to dress up as one from a book, or even your own original character? What do you need to take into consideration?
Muriel Stockdale (mod), Carl Paolino, Sarah Sanders, Anastasia Holt, Amy Fass
What goes into the costuming and make-up used in Haunted Houses?
Anastasia Holt (mod), Carol Salemi
Our panelists reveal the artists and art movements that have influenced their works.
Nathan Lilly (mod), Heidi Hooper, Alan Beck
Artist Heidi Hooper will show us how to collect and apply this unusual medium.
Heidi Hooper (mod)
Artists are always being asked to work for exposure. When is working for free (or “on-spec”) a bad idea? When is it a good idea? How do you know the difference?
Nathan Lilly (mod), Lisa Hertel, Heidi Hooper, Tess Kissinger, Mike McPhail, Robert Walters
What to expect from signing up, to receiving your first award.
Byron Connell (mod), Pam Smith, Heidi Hooper, Diane Kovalcin
Fabric is great, but there’s so much more out there. Let’s talk about incorporating found objects and unconventional materials in props and costumes.
Sarah Sanders (mod), Carl Paolino, Heidi Hooper, Amy Fass
A discussion of disability-friendly looms and art styles (such as the Saori weaving loom and machine ribbon embroidery) for people who have developed difficulties doing handwork.
Kirsten Houseknecht (mod)
What they are, what they are NOT, why it's A Bad Idea to confuse a black hole with a wormhole, and how to use them in scientifically accurate ways in your writing.
Dr. Valerie J. Mikles (mod), Bob Hranek, John Ashmead, Jay Wile, Peter Prellwitz
Join us as we discuss the fact and (science) fiction of near-future space military operations.
Bob Hranek (mod), Bruce Dykes, Paul Levinson, Charlie Robertson, Mark Wolverton, Andre Lieven
Cixin Liu's Dark Forest trilogy and John Scalzi's Old Man's War universe have reignited the "hostile aliens" theory. Was the Voyager map a mistake? Or will they just come for more Chuck Berry?
Bob Hranek (mod), Bruce Dykes, Tom Purdom
What's the hottest tech about to change our world? Join us to discuss the promise, threat, and some things people usually don’t want to talk about.
Bob Hranek (mod), John Ashmead, Earl Bennett, Charlie Robertson, John Skylar
From ADHD and autism to wheelchairs and walkers, video games across platforms offer a unique way to connect people who otherwise would not have an avenue or outlet to reach out to people. How else does the world of digital storytelling open avenues for disabled content creators and consumers?
Michael Ryan (mod), Robert C. Roman, Muriel Hykes
We are coming to a new understanding of how the brain and mind interrelate. How will this change current methods of therapy?
John Skylar (mod), Mary Spila, James Prego, Muriel Hykes
Despite near-universal condemnation of eugenics, the entangled nature of science and capitalism in our society means that someone will inevitably found a company that offers to "enhance" your children...for a fee. How will government regulations, epigenetics, common sense, and morality factor into the possible outcomes?
Jeff Warner (mod), James Prego, John Monahan, John Skylar, Lawrence Kramer, Muriel Hykes
Synthetic biology aims to create organisms that maintain and propagate themselves while producing a desired outcome, whether that is flowers that glow in the dark, cells that produce rare drugs, or architectural organisms that serve as living homes. From do-it-yourself biologists to biohackers to the International Genetically Engineered Machine, people are already bringing synthetic biology to life. We will discuss technologies that are available now, illustrative examples, and possible dangers of synthetic life.
Ronald C. Taylor (mod), Anna Kashina, Muriel Hykes, John Skylar
A discussion of the life and works of this massively influential author, and a celebration of the 50th anniversary of her landmark EarthSea series.
Simone Zelitch (mod), Victoria Janssen, Miriam Seidel, Susan Shwartz, Kim Kindya
In the last year Marvel made us laugh with Ant-Man and The Wasp, cry with Guardians 2, and flat-out blew us away with Black Panther. And after spending the last ten years building up the teams, themes, and story elements necessary for Infinity War, the film appeared to tear the whole universe apart. So...what happens next?
Jay Smith (mod), Savan Gupta, Tauney Kennedy, Victoria Janssen, Kim Kindya, Glenn Hauman
Anne McCaffrey's longest-running series was a trailblazing hybrid of fantasy and science fiction. What impact has it had on SF, fantasy, and multi-genre works? How well does it hold up when viewed in the present era?
Victoria Janssen (mod), Hildy Silverman, Phillip Thorne, Elektra Hammond
When most people think of sci-fi anime they think of legendary giant robots, but some sci-fi anime gets the science more right than you may think!
Walter Amos (mod), Robert Fenelon, Ben Jorritsma, Robert C. Roman
Many animations have been ahead of the social curve. Tezuka's Bagi protested animal experimentation in 1984. More recently, Golden Kamuy features an Ainu main character, while Code Geass depicts Japanese people being treated like Koreans have been treated in Japan. This panel will delve into the ways in which anime has challenged the social norms of Japan from the past to the present.
Robert Fenelon (mod), Ben Jorritsma, Stephanie Burke, Walter Amos
Join us for a fun hour where we discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of Symphogear.
Ben Jorritsma (mod)
How much actual supernaturalism or other fantastic elements (dragons, magic, elves, etc.) does a fantasy story require? There are examples of books marketed as fantasy, set in imaginary places, that contain no fantastic elements- How do they function within the genre?
Jim Stratton (mod), Ken Altabef, Sally Wiener Grotta, Carl Paolino, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Anna Kashina
What effect would having two moons do to the oceans of your world? How do the orbital paths of your planets affect the transit times between them? What factors should you take into account when constructing *your* ideal star system?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Anna Kashina, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, John Monahan
How do these universes differ in the ways they depict their tech? How did the history of each world affect the invention and uses of medical devices, weaponry, methods of transportation, and robotic beings?
Jeff Warner (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Jay Wile, Anna Kashina, Glenn Hauman
Joshua Palmatier (mod), Anna Kashina, Sally Wiener Grotta
Inge Heyer (mod), Anna Kashina
Our notions about romance, sex, and marriage are evolving to keep pace with a world that continues to gain a more nuanced understanding of gender identity, the spectrum of human sexuality, and what a family is. Does your writing reflect an inclusive future, or one where the standards of 1950's America have remained the norm?
Robert C. Roman (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Anna Kashina, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson, Linda J. Lee
Synthetic biology aims to create organisms that maintain and propagate themselves while producing a desired outcome, whether that is flowers that glow in the dark, cells that produce rare drugs, or architectural organisms that serve as living homes. From do-it-yourself biologists to biohackers to the International Genetically Engineered Machine, people are already bringing synthetic biology to life. We will discuss technologies that are available now, illustrative examples, and possible dangers of synthetic life.
Ronald C. Taylor (mod), Anna Kashina, Muriel Hykes, John Skylar
Despite a long history in fiction of solo geniuses making the ultimate breakthroughs in their basement labs, collaboration is necessary for scientific advancement. So why do we glorify the loner scientist trope? Can we make collaborative science feel equally heroic? How do we portray science being done realistically while still meeting the needs of the story?
Jim Stratton (mod), John Ashmead, Aaron Feldman, Anna Kashina, Alan P. Smale, Tee Morris
What exactly is our fascination with dinosaurs, Godzilla, and other creatures that could step on us without noticing?
Nicholas Kaufmann (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Tony Finan, D.L. Carter, Eric Parmer, Stephanie Burke
A guide for horror and mystery writers. (Not murderers!)
Erin M. Hartshorn (mod), Roberta Rogow, Nicholas Kaufmann, Elizabeth Crowens, Brenda W. Clough, Russ Colchamiro
A lot of imagery and scenarios that used to terrify people are viewed as laughable by more recent generations. Are there horrors that are truly timeless? How do you invoke them into the mind of the modern-day reader?
Mark Singer (mod), Dina Leacock, Nicholas Kaufmann, Martin Berman-Gorvine, Karalyn Morris
Brigand Rohan Mauryan Balraj and his crew present an all-ages storytelling session featuring Vedic tales...with a twist! What will it be tonight? The Cycle of Shiva, Sati & Ganesh as a Domestic Dispute? Incarnations of Vishnu as WWE encounters? (Audience participation strongly encouraged!)
Savan Gupta (mod), F. M. Yates, Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch
A new story for a new hour! Join master storyteller Brigand Rohan Mauryan Balraj and his crew for another Vedic tale with a twist!
Savan Gupta (mod), F. M. Yates, Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch
In the last year Marvel made us laugh with Ant-Man and The Wasp, cry with Guardians 2, and flat-out blew us away with Black Panther. And after spending the last ten years building up the teams, themes, and story elements necessary for Infinity War, the film appeared to tear the whole universe apart. So...what happens next?
Jay Smith (mod), Savan Gupta, Tauney Kennedy, Victoria Janssen, Kim Kindya, Glenn Hauman
An analysis of tropes in Steampunk and SF such as Multiverse Theory, Clockworks, and Airships and the origins of these concepts in cultures outside of England, with a particular focus on India and Persia.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch
An exploration of Vedic & Southeast Asian SF & F through the numerous instances, concepts and derivative works produced by both Western and Eastern presses. We'll talk about Scripture, Literature, Saga Poetry, Graphic Novels, RPGs and more, from the Rg Veda and Ramayana 3392 A.D. to Escher and Exalted RPG.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, F. M. Yates
So that Magic Sword is looking dull? That Laser Rifle doesn’t quite pew-pew like it used to? We'll take a look at both fantasy and postmodern armaments in Fantasy and SF Roleplaying Games, with a specific eye to synergy and implementation, as well as item creation, placement and team management from either side of the table.
Savan Gupta (mod), Zee Bowditch, Tauney Kennedy
A walkthrough for designing a stage character with their own background, history, circumstances, quirks and unique flair. Our questionnaire will lead participants through the process of identifying their interests, experiences, and knowledge in order to inform the process of re-defining themselves.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch, Courtney Capacea
Is your character in need of justice? For the past fourteen years, the officers of Cosplay Court Case have arbitrated grievances across fandoms of all genres with assistance from audience members in this widely-loved improv event. So whether you're a Pokemon looking to file a restraining order against Ash Ketchum, Hondo Ohnaka suing the Jedi Council for wage theft, or want Fox McCloud tried for war crimes, come get yourself on the docket!
Savan Gupta (mod), Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch, Courtney Capacea, Robert C. Roman, Tauney Kennedy
Analyzing the works of Michael Moorcock and their impact of the Steampunk and Speculative Fiction genres. How do the concepts of the Multiverse, String Theory, Cosmic Foam, and Plato’s Sphere come into play?
Savan Gupta (mod), Gil Cnaan, Mark Singer, Tauney Kennedy, F. M. Yates, Robert C. Roman
Our yearly audience-participation reading of what is best known as the worst piece of fantasy fiction ever published in a magazine.
Richard Stout (mod), Kim Kindya, Daniel Kimmel, Ian Randal Strock
Join us as we remember the film that broke all the rules and set the benchmark for future movies. What made it so groundbreaking? Does it still hold up today?
Rebecca Robare (mod), Michael A. Ventrella, Daniel Kimmel, Ray Ridenour
"Fifty years ago, Stanley Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke set out to make a new kind of sci-fi. How does their future look now that it’s the past?" This question was asked in a recent article in The New Yorker, and now we're asking you.
Jeff Warner (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Alyce Wilson, Brandon Budda, Daniel Kimmel, Samuel Delany
DS9 was singular in the Trekverse for its dramatic and often troubling depictions of interstellar politics, from people of honor and ideals frequently being forced to question or compromise their beliefs, to those who make no pretense of using any ends to justify their means. For the 25th anniversary of its premiere, a discussion of the series and its eerie prescience regarding real-world political conflicts and issues since its airing.
Russell J. Handelman (mod), Susan Shwartz, Daniel Kimmel, Jonathan Alexandratos, Orenthal Hawkins, Rebecca Robare
Fourteen years ago, an animated cartoon show on Adult Swim paved the way for the idea of a shared cross continuity entertainment universe. Blending elements from comics, pulp, science fiction, spy shows, Scooby Doo, and David Bowie and putting them against the backdrop of a failed Jet Age future...and now it's back!
Orenthal Hawkins (mod), Kim Kindya, Phillip Thorne
Our yearly audience-participation reading of what is best known as the worst piece of fantasy fiction ever published in a magazine.
Richard Stout (mod), Kim Kindya, Daniel Kimmel, Ian Randal Strock
A discussion of the life and works of this massively influential author, and a celebration of the 50th anniversary of her landmark EarthSea series.
Simone Zelitch (mod), Victoria Janssen, Miriam Seidel, Susan Shwartz, Kim Kindya
In the last year Marvel made us laugh with Ant-Man and The Wasp, cry with Guardians 2, and flat-out blew us away with Black Panther. And after spending the last ten years building up the teams, themes, and story elements necessary for Infinity War, the film appeared to tear the whole universe apart. So...what happens next?
Jay Smith (mod), Savan Gupta, Tauney Kennedy, Victoria Janssen, Kim Kindya, Glenn Hauman
Do you keep walking by the "anime track", but aren't really sure about this anime stuff? Are you curious, but don't know where to start? This the panel for you! In this panel, we'll discuss some great series and movies for beginners to the anime, where you can watch them, and ways they may be both different and similar to traditional U.S. fare. Bring your favorite movie or genre, and we'll try find a show for you!
Kristyn Souder (mod), Stephanie Burke, Kim Kindya, Robert Fenelon, Robert C. Roman, Tim Souder
As a theme and an image in science fiction. Think of Ghost in the Shell, Blade Runner, New York 2140, and Metropolis. How does the nature of a city inform the stories set within it?
Carl Paolino (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Tom Purdom, Kim Kindya, Eric Parmer, Ty Drago
Writers from Tanith Lee to Cat Valente to Seanan McGuire have incorporated and transformed fairy tales in their work. How have they managed to update the stories in a manner that feels both in line with the originals and relevant to the present day? Are their adaptations actually darker than the source material, or have the Disney versions just changed what we think of as the standard?
Philippa Ballantine (mod), Kim Kindya, Mary Spila, Eric Parmer, Karen Heuler, Linda J. Lee
Is the reboot of the franchise a deserving successor to the original series? Do the modern-day "prequels" reflect a change in how we view our world- and humanity's place in it?
Ken Altabef (mod), Barna William Donovan, Kim Kindya
Remembering Gardner Dozois -- A gathering to honor Philadelphia’s own Gardner Dozois. In addition to his 15 Hugos as Best Editor, he was two-time Nebula winner for short fiction as a writer, the founder and editor of the Year's Best Science Fiction anthologies, and editor of Isaac Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine for 20 years. Come join us in celebrating his life.
David M. Axler (mod), Tom Purdom, Samuel Delany, Michael Swanwick, Tess Kissinger, Robert Walters
Artists are always being asked to work for exposure. When is working for free (or “on-spec”) a bad idea? When is it a good idea? How do you know the difference?
Nathan Lilly (mod), Lisa Hertel, Heidi Hooper, Tess Kissinger, Mike McPhail, Robert Walters
Learn the basics of drawing dinos from a pair of pros!
Tess Kissinger (mod), Robert Walters
Editors and art directors discuss their guidelines, pay rates, how they evaluate art for their magazine, and how to (politely) get their attention.
Tess Kissinger (mod), Robert Walters
Tess Kissinger (mod), Robert Walters
Have a theory about season two's timeline? Speculation about where the show will go next? Want to discuss what it means to be human in a world that we now know can [REDACTED], or whether or not you're ready to welcome our new android overlords? Because we do!
Barna William Donovan (mod), Paul Levinson, Anastasia Klimchynskaya
What are our favorite fanfic tropes, and why are they so satisfying to read? Why don't we see these tropes as often in 'regular' fiction? Would we *want* to?
Anastasia Klimchynskaya (mod), Robert C. Roman, Jay Smith
Realistically writing PTSD induced by speculative scenarios.
Leigh Grossman (mod), Jay Smith, Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Robert C. Roman
Creating empathy for humanity's not-quite-human creations was groundbreaking with Frankenstein, but now, stories told from the perspective of A.I. are common enough that they've become their own sub-genre. How do these stories affect how we perceive ourselves? Have we reached the point where we have more empathy for robots than we do for other humans?
Joan Wendland (mod), Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Barna William Donovan, Neil Clarke, David Walton
There's a lot to unpack in this one...where to begin? What does Michael represent in the growth of how female characters have been depicted in the franchise? Did they portray PTSD realistically? How effective was their commentary on contemporary issues? Given how many characters died overall, did the death of "minority" characters still feel like fridging?
Ty Drago (mod), Jonathan Alexandratos, Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Inge Heyer, Glenn McDorman, Jay Wile
The impact of the mythology of the Midwest (and of Southern Gothic) on speculative literature.
Anastasia Klimchynskaya (mod), Bernie Mojzes
Frankenstein is not just the first work of science fiction, but a seminal text on being an outsider. How might we read Frankenstein through Mary Shelley's experiences of being an outsider - a highly-educated woman and the daughter of a feminist?
Anastasia Klimchynskaya (mod)
How can science fiction help us become more socially aware? What allows science fiction to address social issues in unique ways not found in other forms of literature, and how can we meaningfully use it to better our society?
Rebecca Robare (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Simone Zelitch, Phil Giunta, Michael A. Ventrella, Anastasia Klimchynskaya
Vintage ruching and other uses for ribbonwork on historical dress or quilting. Handouts and materials will be provided.
Diane Kovalcin (mod)
What to expect from signing up, to receiving your first award.
Byron Connell (mod), Pam Smith, Heidi Hooper, Diane Kovalcin
You can't just buy Padme's dressing gown from Naboo or Daenerys' dress fabric at your favorite sewing store. It has to be manipulated to give texture and depth. A workshop on North American smocking and other fabric manipulation techniques. Handouts and materials will be provided.
Diane Kovalcin (mod)
Despite near-universal condemnation of eugenics, the entangled nature of science and capitalism in our society means that someone will inevitably found a company that offers to "enhance" your children...for a fee. How will government regulations, epigenetics, common sense, and morality factor into the possible outcomes?
Jeff Warner (mod), James Prego, John Monahan, John Skylar, Lawrence Kramer, Muriel Hykes
Tips on how to answer moderator questions, audience questions, not monopolize the panel, get a word in edgewise, combat imposter syndrome, and other aspects of handling your appearance as a Panel Presenter at cons.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Alyce Wilson, Joseph Haughey, Lawrence Kramer, Phil Giunta
Is SF inherently materialistic? While there are sf stories written from a religious viewpoint, they are in a distinct minority. What does this tell us about the inherent nature of SF and the freedom to speculate vs the rigidity of dogma?
David Walton (mod), Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen, Chris Kreuter, Lawrence Kramer, Mark Singer
Recently made available streaming on Amazon Prime, this pioneering Science Fiction TV show featured a fully-plotted story arc for each season, even as each episode told a single story. Fans both old and new will share reasons why *you* should watch it...while avoiding spoilers.
Tony Finan (mod), Ken Altabef, Elektra Hammond, Tim Souder, Lawrence Kramer, Mark Wolverton
When is it better to shop your book around to publishers, and when does it make more sense to put it out yourself?
Chris Kreuter (mod), Paul Levinson, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, April Grey, Michael D'Ambrosio, Russ Colchamiro
How to plan the project, manage time, and stay on budget.
Mike McPhail (mod), Chris Kreuter, John Skylar, Glenn Hauman, Aaron Rosenberg, April Grey
A hands-on, family-friendly workshop. Learn how to put together a game of your own design with your family or friends!
Chris Kreuter (mod), Bruce Dykes, Ann Stolinsky, Virginia Swann
Expected to be just another silly spoof, The Orville turned out to be a show that takes on serious issues in a lighthearted manner. How has The Orville been making its mark independent of the franchises that inspired it?
Ty Drago (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, James Prego, Chris Kreuter, Andre Lieven
Alan P. Smale (mod), Philippa Ballantine, Chris Kreuter
Marshall Ryan Maresca (mod), Chris Kreuter
Is SF inherently materialistic? While there are sf stories written from a religious viewpoint, they are in a distinct minority. What does this tell us about the inherent nature of SF and the freedom to speculate vs the rigidity of dogma?
David Walton (mod), Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen, Chris Kreuter, Lawrence Kramer, Mark Singer
An un-programmed non-denominational meeting for worship where attenders are encouraged to say a prayer, sing a hymn, or say something for the occasion.
Dotty Kurtz (mod)
A lot of imagery and scenarios that used to terrify people are viewed as laughable by more recent generations. Are there horrors that are truly timeless? How do you invoke them into the mind of the modern-day reader?
Mark Singer (mod), Dina Leacock, Nicholas Kaufmann, Martin Berman-Gorvine, Karalyn Morris
Who your narrator is, how the story is perceived, and where the “camera” is can make all the difference in the success or failure in a story. What stories have used these elements in successful ways?
Jim Stratton (mod), Steven Brust, Dina Leacock, Bernie Mojzes, Gregory Frost, Muriel Stockdale
Ellison was a prolific writer of short stories, novellas, teleplays, essays, and criticism, with over 1,700 works to his name. What impact did he have on genre storytelling? What were his best works?
Phil Giunta (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Mark Wolverton, Dina Leacock, Jay Smith
Steven Brust (mod), Dina Leacock
Tom Purdom (mod), Dina Leacock
The source of the popularization of Celtic myth, fairies, and ghost stories, what does modern fantasy owe to developments of the Victorian era?
Philippa Ballantine (mod), Mary Spila, Linda J. Lee, Elizabeth Crowens
How can thinking about folk and fairy tales help us to understand transhumanism in science fiction? Though transbiology and transhumanism are relatively recent terms, these concepts have long been part of folk narrative, especially mythology and fairy tales. This exploration of fairy tale precursors to the scientific imagination will help illuminate enduring questions about what it means to be human.
Linda J. Lee (mod)
Our notions about romance, sex, and marriage are evolving to keep pace with a world that continues to gain a more nuanced understanding of gender identity, the spectrum of human sexuality, and what a family is. Does your writing reflect an inclusive future, or one where the standards of 1950's America have remained the norm?
Robert C. Roman (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Anna Kashina, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson, Linda J. Lee
Writers from Tanith Lee to Cat Valente to Seanan McGuire have incorporated and transformed fairy tales in their work. How have they managed to update the stories in a manner that feels both in line with the originals and relevant to the present day? Are their adaptations actually darker than the source material, or have the Disney versions just changed what we think of as the standard?
Philippa Ballantine (mod), Kim Kindya, Mary Spila, Eric Parmer, Karen Heuler, Linda J. Lee
Whether or not the teachings of Jung are current in psychology, they have had an enormous impact on literature and culture. Jung's ideas are the key to understanding writers as diverse as R.A. Lafferty and Ursula K. LeGuin. What has Jung contributed to fantastic literature?
Miriam Seidel (mod), Rebecca Robare, Shannon O’Shea, Linda J. Lee
When is it better to shop your book around to publishers, and when does it make more sense to put it out yourself?
Chris Kreuter (mod), Paul Levinson, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, April Grey, Michael D'Ambrosio, Russ Colchamiro
Joan Wendland (mod), Muriel Stockdale, Paul Levinson
Have a theory about season two's timeline? Speculation about where the show will go next? Want to discuss what it means to be human in a world that we now know can [REDACTED], or whether or not you're ready to welcome our new android overlords? Because we do!
Barna William Donovan (mod), Paul Levinson, Anastasia Klimchynskaya
Join us as we discuss the fact and (science) fiction of near-future space military operations.
Bob Hranek (mod), Bruce Dykes, Paul Levinson, Charlie Robertson, Mark Wolverton, Andre Lieven
From cover design to distribution options, where do you take your masterpiece?
Alex Shvartsman (mod), Aaron Rosenberg, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Paul Levinson, Ken Altabef, Tee Morris
Indie writers talk about their marketing successes and fails. How do you set realistic expectations for the response to your efforts?
Ken Altabef (mod), John Skylar, Paul Levinson, Russ Colchamiro, Michael Hanson
Since the days of H.G. Wells, Mars has figured greatly in SF. How have SF views of Mars changed as our understanding of the planet grew. Why does it still matter today?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), John Ashmead, Michael D'Ambrosio, Paul Levinson, Tobias Cabral
We all know that Warner Brothers has had a bit of the problem with their DCEU movies. But the latest trailers for Aquaman & SHAZAM look like they’re finally turning the page to a Brand New Day...
Barna William Donovan (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Andre Lieven, Orenthal Hawkins
Join us as we discuss the fact and (science) fiction of near-future space military operations.
Bob Hranek (mod), Bruce Dykes, Paul Levinson, Charlie Robertson, Mark Wolverton, Andre Lieven
Expected to be just another silly spoof, The Orville turned out to be a show that takes on serious issues in a lighthearted manner. How has The Orville been making its mark independent of the franchises that inspired it?
Ty Drago (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, James Prego, Chris Kreuter, Andre Lieven
Our panelists reveal the artists and art movements that have influenced their works.
Nathan Lilly (mod), Heidi Hooper, Alan Beck
Bugging out or locking down, let's talk about how to prepare for various emergency situations. What do you need in your survival kit?
Tony Finan (mod), Jazz Hiestand, Nathan Lilly
Artists are always being asked to work for exposure. When is working for free (or “on-spec”) a bad idea? When is it a good idea? How do you know the difference?
Nathan Lilly (mod), Lisa Hertel, Heidi Hooper, Tess Kissinger, Mike McPhail, Robert Walters
What are the best art applications? Platforms? Where do I learn to use them? Is a digital pen and tablet needed?
Ray Ridenour (mod), Alan Beck, Eric Hardenbrook, Nathan Lilly, Mike McPhail
Nathan E. Lilly will create a digital illustration based on audience suggestions.
Nathan Lilly (mod)
It has been 35 years since Bruce Bethke’s genre-defining short story “Cyberpunk” was published in Amazing Stories. Since then we've had stories such as Neuromancer, Max Headroom, Hackers, The Matrix, and Ready Player One. Are tales of a highly-networked technological dystopian futures *too* relevant to be feel like fantasy these days?
Tobias Cabral (mod), Bruce Dykes, Nathan Lilly, Aaron Rosenberg
Falling asleep for a hundred years is so passe. What are some fun, fresh, modern enchantments you can use to put your protagonists to the test?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Gordon Linzner, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Elektra Hammond, Alex Shvartsman
Moderating a panel is more than just showing up and asking people to quiet down if a discussion gets out of hand. Learn what the best moderators do to prepare for and handle the panels they are responsible for managing.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Gordon Linzner, Susan Shwartz, Steven Brust, Ray Ridenour, Jeff Warner
Lawrence M. Schoen (mod), Gordon Linzner, Susan Shwartz
Gordon Linzner (mod), Lawrence M. Schoen
Gary Lippincott (mod)
Gary Lippincott (mod)
Steven Brust (mod), Gary Lippincott
What are the best fan developments to come out of the Harry Potter fandom? Is there enough content to keep it alive despite waning interest- and expectations- in the recent additions to the canon?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Lynati
What would you like to say about this year's convention? How can Philcon provide for your interests in future years?
Todd Dashoff (mod), Lynati, Terry Steiner Sisk Graybill, Kristyn Souder
An analysis of tropes in Steampunk and SF such as Multiverse Theory, Clockworks, and Airships and the origins of these concepts in cultures outside of England, with a particular focus on India and Persia.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch
A walkthrough for designing a stage character with their own background, history, circumstances, quirks and unique flair. Our questionnaire will lead participants through the process of identifying their interests, experiences, and knowledge in order to inform the process of re-defining themselves.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch, Courtney Capacea
Is your character in need of justice? For the past fourteen years, the officers of Cosplay Court Case have arbitrated grievances across fandoms of all genres with assistance from audience members in this widely-loved improv event. So whether you're a Pokemon looking to file a restraining order against Ash Ketchum, Hondo Ohnaka suing the Jedi Council for wage theft, or want Fox McCloud tried for war crimes, come get yourself on the docket!
Savan Gupta (mod), Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch, Courtney Capacea, Robert C. Roman, Tauney Kennedy
Falling asleep for a hundred years is so passe. What are some fun, fresh, modern enchantments you can use to put your protagonists to the test?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Gordon Linzner, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Elektra Hammond, Alex Shvartsman
People differ in how they read (or listen) to a story. They may read fast or linger over the text. They may search back for “clues” or just go for the ride. How can the different modes impact your experience?
Brandon Budda (mod), Alyce Wilson, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Eric Hardenbrook, Glenn McDorman
What effect would having two moons do to the oceans of your world? How do the orbital paths of your planets affect the transit times between them? What factors should you take into account when constructing *your* ideal star system?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Anna Kashina, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, John Monahan
Hildy Silverman (mod), Karen Heuler, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell
How much actual supernaturalism or other fantastic elements (dragons, magic, elves, etc.) does a fantasy story require? There are examples of books marketed as fantasy, set in imaginary places, that contain no fantastic elements- How do they function within the genre?
Jim Stratton (mod), Ken Altabef, Sally Wiener Grotta, Carl Paolino, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Anna Kashina
We all know that Warner Brothers has had a bit of the problem with their DCEU movies. But the latest trailers for Aquaman & SHAZAM look like they’re finally turning the page to a Brand New Day...
Barna William Donovan (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Andre Lieven, Orenthal Hawkins
Marshall Ryan Maresca (mod)
Marshall Ryan Maresca (mod)
As a theme and an image in science fiction. Think of Ghost in the Shell, Blade Runner, New York 2140, and Metropolis. How does the nature of a city inform the stories set within it?
Carl Paolino (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Tom Purdom, Kim Kindya, Eric Parmer, Ty Drago
Marshall Ryan Maresca (mod), Chris Kreuter
Whether it was because of a surprise cancellation that left us with a massive cliffhanger, or the intentional plotting of a Machiavellian team of writers, some series ended in ways that- even years later- make us want to shriek. What finale left you agape?
Tony Finan (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Alyce Wilson, Hildy Silverman, Tee Morris
What elements should you keep in mind while writing a novel if you're hoping to eventually see it onscreen?
Richard Stout (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Barna William Donovan, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Carl Paolino, Michael D'Ambrosio
We've talked a lot over the years about how to avoid infodumping, or at least, giving your readers information in a way that is entertaining and easy to parse. But sometimes the question you ought to ask is not how to insert all the facts about the world you've built, but "is it necessary?"
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Steven Brust, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Bernie Mojzes, Danielle Ackley-McPhail
People differ in how they read (or listen) to a story. They may read fast or linger over the text. They may search back for “clues” or just go for the ride. How can the different modes impact your experience?
Brandon Budda (mod), Alyce Wilson, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Eric Hardenbrook, Glenn McDorman
There's a lot to unpack in this one...where to begin? What does Michael represent in the growth of how female characters have been depicted in the franchise? Did they portray PTSD realistically? How effective was their commentary on contemporary issues? Given how many characters died overall, did the death of "minority" characters still feel like fridging?
Ty Drago (mod), Jonathan Alexandratos, Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Inge Heyer, Glenn McDorman, Jay Wile
Brenda W. Clough (mod), April Grey, Glenn McDorman
A discussion of this Nebula-winning work, which will be led and audio-recorded by members of The Gene Wolfe Literary Podcast.
Glenn McDorman (mod), Brandon Budda
How to plan the project, manage time, and stay on budget.
Mike McPhail (mod), Chris Kreuter, John Skylar, Glenn Hauman, Aaron Rosenberg, April Grey
Artists are always being asked to work for exposure. When is working for free (or “on-spec”) a bad idea? When is it a good idea? How do you know the difference?
Nathan Lilly (mod), Lisa Hertel, Heidi Hooper, Tess Kissinger, Mike McPhail, Robert Walters
What are the best art applications? Platforms? Where do I learn to use them? Is a digital pen and tablet needed?
Ray Ridenour (mod), Alan Beck, Eric Hardenbrook, Nathan Lilly, Mike McPhail
Danielle Ackley-McPhail (mod), Mike McPhail
Science Fiction is the genre best suited for ideas that challenge the status quo, because it is not bound by our reality as we know it. At the same time, SF has existed for long enough that it has become full of ossified paradigms that no longer force us to examine our perspectives. How do we keep our ideas relevant given the evolutionary nature of the genre while also dealing with the natural tendency of fiction to recycle cliches, frameworks, and touchstones that are familiar to us?
Michael Swanwick (mod), Martin Berman-Gorvine, Eric Hardenbrook, Mike McPhail, Peter Prellwitz
You've got maps, star charts, cultures developed for a multitude of different races, and a timeline of the main historical developments over the last 1,000 years. But what you don't have is any clue what to do with it all! Let's see if we can help with that...
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Brenda W. Clough, John Monahan, Mike McPhail, Russell J. Handelman
The Chromatics perform a mix of themes from (and songs about) TV and movies, as well as songs about technology, life, and their intersections
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Dr. Padi Boyd, Scott Rohrbach
AstroCappella: A Musical Exploration of the Universe. The Chromatics' mission is to spread science through a cappella and a cappella through science across a wide swath of the known Universe. Multimedia performance!
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Alan P. Smale, Karen Smale, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach, Michelle Orhan
Worlds beyond our own solar system were once just science fiction, but today we know there are more planets than stars in our galaxy. How did that happen? Explore strange new worlds with Dr. Padi Boyd and the Chromatics, as they take you on a voyage of discovery with space science missions like the newly launched Transiting Exoplanet Survey satellite (TESS).
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Karen Smale, Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
The Chromatics sing AND talk! This is an all-original music show, featuring songwriter discussion and Q&A about the songs.
Alan P. Smale (mod), Karen Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
What they are, what they are NOT, why it's A Bad Idea to confuse a black hole with a wormhole, and how to use them in scientifically accurate ways in your writing.
Dr. Valerie J. Mikles (mod), Bob Hranek, John Ashmead, Jay Wile, Peter Prellwitz
What effect would having two moons do to the oceans of your world? How do the orbital paths of your planets affect the transit times between them? What factors should you take into account when constructing *your* ideal star system?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Anna Kashina, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, John Monahan
How much warning did you get before the last blizzard? The next generation JPSS-1 satellite recently joined NOAA’s Earth Orbiting System- come learn how the advanced instrumentation is fueling new science, allowing us to track hurricanes at night, predict river flooding from melted ice, and warn us about other impending hazards.
Dr. Valerie J. Mikles (mod)
You want your audience drawn into the tension of suspenseful moments, not muttering, "Why didn't they just pack spare batteries?" during them. How do you develop plot devices that won't leave readers questioning your characters' intelligence?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Michael D'Ambrosio, Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Michael Swanwick, Aaron Rosenberg
Our notions about romance, sex, and marriage are evolving to keep pace with a world that continues to gain a more nuanced understanding of gender identity, the spectrum of human sexuality, and what a family is. Does your writing reflect an inclusive future, or one where the standards of 1950's America have remained the norm?
Robert C. Roman (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Anna Kashina, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson, Linda J. Lee
How can science fiction help us become more socially aware? What allows science fiction to address social issues in unique ways not found in other forms of literature, and how can we meaningfully use it to better our society?
Rebecca Robare (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Simone Zelitch, Phil Giunta, Michael A. Ventrella, Anastasia Klimchynskaya
Dr. Valerie J. Mikles (mod)
Who your narrator is, how the story is perceived, and where the “camera” is can make all the difference in the success or failure in a story. What stories have used these elements in successful ways?
Jim Stratton (mod), Steven Brust, Dina Leacock, Bernie Mojzes, Gregory Frost, Muriel Stockdale
The impact of the mythology of the Midwest (and of Southern Gothic) on speculative literature.
Anastasia Klimchynskaya (mod), Bernie Mojzes
We've talked a lot over the years about how to avoid infodumping, or at least, giving your readers information in a way that is entertaining and easy to parse. But sometimes the question you ought to ask is not how to insert all the facts about the world you've built, but "is it necessary?"
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Steven Brust, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Bernie Mojzes, Danielle Ackley-McPhail
3D printers have now been used to successfully print everything from rocket engines to human skin. How far are we from printing a cup of Earl Grey, Hot?
Earl Bennett (mod), John Monahan, Charlie Robertson, Bruce Dykes
Despite near-universal condemnation of eugenics, the entangled nature of science and capitalism in our society means that someone will inevitably found a company that offers to "enhance" your children...for a fee. How will government regulations, epigenetics, common sense, and morality factor into the possible outcomes?
Jeff Warner (mod), James Prego, John Monahan, John Skylar, Lawrence Kramer, Muriel Hykes
What effect would having two moons do to the oceans of your world? How do the orbital paths of your planets affect the transit times between them? What factors should you take into account when constructing *your* ideal star system?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Anna Kashina, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, John Monahan
Ken Altabef (mod), John Monahan, Martin Berman-Gorvine
You've got maps, star charts, cultures developed for a multitude of different races, and a timeline of the main historical developments over the last 1,000 years. But what you don't have is any clue what to do with it all! Let's see if we can help with that...
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Brenda W. Clough, John Monahan, Mike McPhail, Russell J. Handelman
When can science fiction most effectively mix with horror, fantasy, mysteries or any other genre? What ways can the boundaries of genres can be experimented with? Who's written excellent examples of this?
Gil Cnaan (mod), Michael Swanwick, Karalyn Morris, Stephanie Burke, Shannon O’Shea, Aaron Rosenberg
Panelists and audience members will analyze this award-winning fantasy story. Time will be set aside at the start of the panel for those unfamiliar with the work- or who want to refresh their memory- to read it.
Shannon O’Shea (mod), Karalyn Morris
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
A lot of imagery and scenarios that used to terrify people are viewed as laughable by more recent generations. Are there horrors that are truly timeless? How do you invoke them into the mind of the modern-day reader?
Mark Singer (mod), Dina Leacock, Nicholas Kaufmann, Martin Berman-Gorvine, Karalyn Morris
A number of well-known and well-respected authors got their start by writing fanfic. We’re talking Naomi Novik, Seanan McGuire, and Lois McMaster Bujold. Our panelists read the first published book by several authors who started out as fanfic writers, as well as interviews and other discussions of their experiences doing so, and compared the techniques seen in the books with fanfiction to extrapolate how a background in writing fic might affect one's literary style- and career.
Karalyn Morris (mod), Shannon O’Shea, Eric Parmer
Our presenters will discuss their approaches and experiences with creating a serial podcast.
Tee Morris (mod), Jay Smith, Michal Schick
From cover design to distribution options, where do you take your masterpiece?
Alex Shvartsman (mod), Aaron Rosenberg, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Paul Levinson, Ken Altabef, Tee Morris
We always know when Darth Vader is on the way, when James Bond is coming to the rescue, or when you’re entering the city limits of Bon Temps, Louisiana. Music forms an integral part of television and cinema, yet is rarely examined or celebrated. Or are there fans out there that collect soundtracks as some collect cards and comics? What is some of the best music from the genre? Which themes are true signatures?
Tee Morris (mod)
Whether it was because of a surprise cancellation that left us with a massive cliffhanger, or the intentional plotting of a Machiavellian team of writers, some series ended in ways that- even years later- make us want to shriek. What finale left you agape?
Tony Finan (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Alyce Wilson, Hildy Silverman, Tee Morris
Despite a long history in fiction of solo geniuses making the ultimate breakthroughs in their basement labs, collaboration is necessary for scientific advancement. So why do we glorify the loner scientist trope? Can we make collaborative science feel equally heroic? How do we portray science being done realistically while still meeting the needs of the story?
Jim Stratton (mod), John Ashmead, Aaron Feldman, Anna Kashina, Alan P. Smale, Tee Morris
When can science fiction most effectively mix with horror, fantasy, mysteries or any other genre? What ways can the boundaries of genres can be experimented with? Who's written excellent examples of this?
Gil Cnaan (mod), Michael Swanwick, Karalyn Morris, Stephanie Burke, Shannon O’Shea, Aaron Rosenberg
Panelists and audience members will analyze this award-winning fantasy story. Time will be set aside at the start of the panel for those unfamiliar with the work- or who want to refresh their memory- to read it.
Shannon O’Shea (mod), Karalyn Morris
...and how do I write one??
Joan Wendland (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Erin M. Hartshorn, Shannon O’Shea, D.L. Carter, Sally Wiener Grotta
A number of well-known and well-respected authors got their start by writing fanfic. We’re talking Naomi Novik, Seanan McGuire, and Lois McMaster Bujold. Our panelists read the first published book by several authors who started out as fanfic writers, as well as interviews and other discussions of their experiences doing so, and compared the techniques seen in the books with fanfiction to extrapolate how a background in writing fic might affect one's literary style- and career.
Karalyn Morris (mod), Shannon O’Shea, Eric Parmer
Whether or not the teachings of Jung are current in psychology, they have had an enormous impact on literature and culture. Jung's ideas are the key to understanding writers as diverse as R.A. Lafferty and Ursula K. LeGuin. What has Jung contributed to fantastic literature?
Miriam Seidel (mod), Rebecca Robare, Shannon O’Shea, Linda J. Lee
The Chromatics perform a mix of themes from (and songs about) TV and movies, as well as songs about technology, life, and their intersections
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Dr. Padi Boyd, Scott Rohrbach
AstroCappella: A Musical Exploration of the Universe. The Chromatics' mission is to spread science through a cappella and a cappella through science across a wide swath of the known Universe. Multimedia performance!
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Alan P. Smale, Karen Smale, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach, Michelle Orhan
Worlds beyond our own solar system were once just science fiction, but today we know there are more planets than stars in our galaxy. How did that happen? Explore strange new worlds with Dr. Padi Boyd and the Chromatics, as they take you on a voyage of discovery with space science missions like the newly launched Transiting Exoplanet Survey satellite (TESS).
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Karen Smale, Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
The Chromatics sing AND talk! This is an all-original music show, featuring songwriter discussion and Q&A about the songs.
Alan P. Smale (mod), Karen Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
Joshua Palmatier (mod)
What creative and original - but scientifically plausible - ways are left for storytellers to destroy the world?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Joshua Palmatier, Karen Heuler, Eric Hardenbrook, Jim Stratton
Joshua Palmatier (mod), Anna Kashina, Sally Wiener Grotta
Magazine and small press editors discuss what goes into creating their publications, from the economics of staying viable in the electronic age to getting appropriate submissions.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Joshua Palmatier, Alex Shvartsman, Neil Clarke, Ian Randal Strock
Even established long-term professional writers still work to improve their skills. Authors discuss things they have learned along the way, and how they have gained new levels of expertise.
D.L. Carter (mod), Gregory Frost, Alyce Wilson, Joshua Palmatier, Sally Wiener Grotta, Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen
For many years, one of the hallmarks of anime has been progressive story arcs where characters evolve across episodes and seasons. Compare this to episodic Western animation where status quo is king. However, due in part to Western animators who grew up on anime, this is beginning to change. This panel will examine how this and many other attributes of anime have influenced and inspired Western animation.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Carl Paolino, Brian T. Graening-Price
How much actual supernaturalism or other fantastic elements (dragons, magic, elves, etc.) does a fantasy story require? There are examples of books marketed as fantasy, set in imaginary places, that contain no fantastic elements- How do they function within the genre?
Jim Stratton (mod), Ken Altabef, Sally Wiener Grotta, Carl Paolino, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Anna Kashina
Movie, game and comic characters are one thing, but what if you want to dress up as one from a book, or even your own original character? What do you need to take into consideration?
Muriel Stockdale (mod), Carl Paolino, Sarah Sanders, Anastasia Holt, Amy Fass
A discussion of the making and production of the original 1933 fantasy adventure classic and its lasting cultural significance, as well as its countless remakes, sequels, and reboots. Join film scholar Steve Vertlieb and writer Richard Stout for this loving remembrance of, perhaps, the greatest "Monster" film of all time.
Steve Vertlieb (mod), Richard Stout, Carl Paolino, Samuel Delany
As a theme and an image in science fiction. Think of Ghost in the Shell, Blade Runner, New York 2140, and Metropolis. How does the nature of a city inform the stories set within it?
Carl Paolino (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Tom Purdom, Kim Kindya, Eric Parmer, Ty Drago
Fabric is great, but there’s so much more out there. Let’s talk about incorporating found objects and unconventional materials in props and costumes.
Sarah Sanders (mod), Carl Paolino, Heidi Hooper, Amy Fass
What elements should you keep in mind while writing a novel if you're hoping to eventually see it onscreen?
Richard Stout (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Barna William Donovan, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Carl Paolino, Michael D'Ambrosio
What exactly is our fascination with dinosaurs, Godzilla, and other creatures that could step on us without noticing?
Nicholas Kaufmann (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Tony Finan, D.L. Carter, Eric Parmer, Stephanie Burke
As a theme and an image in science fiction. Think of Ghost in the Shell, Blade Runner, New York 2140, and Metropolis. How does the nature of a city inform the stories set within it?
Carl Paolino (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Tom Purdom, Kim Kindya, Eric Parmer, Ty Drago
Writers from Tanith Lee to Cat Valente to Seanan McGuire have incorporated and transformed fairy tales in their work. How have they managed to update the stories in a manner that feels both in line with the originals and relevant to the present day? Are their adaptations actually darker than the source material, or have the Disney versions just changed what we think of as the standard?
Philippa Ballantine (mod), Kim Kindya, Mary Spila, Eric Parmer, Karen Heuler, Linda J. Lee
A number of well-known and well-respected authors got their start by writing fanfic. We’re talking Naomi Novik, Seanan McGuire, and Lois McMaster Bujold. Our panelists read the first published book by several authors who started out as fanfic writers, as well as interviews and other discussions of their experiences doing so, and compared the techniques seen in the books with fanfiction to extrapolate how a background in writing fic might affect one's literary style- and career.
Karalyn Morris (mod), Shannon O’Shea, Eric Parmer
From #InOurOwnVoices to "Comicsgate", there's a lot to be said about the evolving face- and body- of fiction across all media types. A frank discussion of the considerations involved when creating content intended to depict characters who are different from you, and the impact it can have on your readers, viewers, listeners, and fellow fans.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Savan Gupta, Gil Cnaan, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson
Our notions about romance, sex, and marriage are evolving to keep pace with a world that continues to gain a more nuanced understanding of gender identity, the spectrum of human sexuality, and what a family is. Does your writing reflect an inclusive future, or one where the standards of 1950's America have remained the norm?
Robert C. Roman (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Anna Kashina, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson, Linda J. Lee
A discussion of conspiracy theories, secret societies, and themes of cover-ups / the creation of a false consciousness by shadowy organizations in science fiction. Should we be concerned about how paranoid society seems to be getting? Or is it all just a government ploy...
Michael A. Ventrella (mod), Michael D'Ambrosio, Mark Singer, Martin Berman-Gorvine, Kevin Patterson
From #InOurOwnVoices to "Comicsgate", there's a lot to be said about the evolving face- and body- of fiction across all media types. A frank discussion of the considerations involved when creating content intended to depict characters who are different from you, and the impact it can have on your readers, viewers, listeners, and fellow fans.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Savan Gupta, Gil Cnaan, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson
Just how does a "Kickstarter" work? Will Patreon's recent changes impact your ability to attract and keep Patrons? Is it worth setting up a KoFi account?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Philippa Ballantine, Alex Shvartsman, Alana Phelan, Glenn Hauman
Our notions about romance, sex, and marriage are evolving to keep pace with a world that continues to gain a more nuanced understanding of gender identity, the spectrum of human sexuality, and what a family is. Does your writing reflect an inclusive future, or one where the standards of 1950's America have remained the norm?
Robert C. Roman (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Anna Kashina, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson, Linda J. Lee
We are coming to a new understanding of how the brain and mind interrelate. How will this change current methods of therapy?
John Skylar (mod), Mary Spila, James Prego, Muriel Hykes
Despite near-universal condemnation of eugenics, the entangled nature of science and capitalism in our society means that someone will inevitably found a company that offers to "enhance" your children...for a fee. How will government regulations, epigenetics, common sense, and morality factor into the possible outcomes?
Jeff Warner (mod), James Prego, John Monahan, John Skylar, Lawrence Kramer, Muriel Hykes
Expected to be just another silly spoof, The Orville turned out to be a show that takes on serious issues in a lighthearted manner. How has The Orville been making its mark independent of the franchises that inspired it?
Ty Drago (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, James Prego, Chris Kreuter, Andre Lieven
Visual arts, music, dance, dramatic performance- even the creation of speculative fiction- can't be the province of only humankind. What might these things look like on other planets? What about types of art created for sensory systems we don't have?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Stephanie Burke, Robert C. Roman, Peter Prellwitz, Michael Hanson
What they are, what they are NOT, why it's A Bad Idea to confuse a black hole with a wormhole, and how to use them in scientifically accurate ways in your writing.
Dr. Valerie J. Mikles (mod), Bob Hranek, John Ashmead, Jay Wile, Peter Prellwitz
Science Fiction is the genre best suited for ideas that challenge the status quo, because it is not bound by our reality as we know it. At the same time, SF has existed for long enough that it has become full of ossified paradigms that no longer force us to examine our perspectives. How do we keep our ideas relevant given the evolutionary nature of the genre while also dealing with the natural tendency of fiction to recycle cliches, frameworks, and touchstones that are familiar to us?
Michael Swanwick (mod), Martin Berman-Gorvine, Eric Hardenbrook, Mike McPhail, Peter Prellwitz
Remembering Gardner Dozois -- A gathering to honor Philadelphia’s own Gardner Dozois. In addition to his 15 Hugos as Best Editor, he was two-time Nebula winner for short fiction as a writer, the founder and editor of the Year's Best Science Fiction anthologies, and editor of Isaac Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine for 20 years. Come join us in celebrating his life.
David M. Axler (mod), Tom Purdom, Samuel Delany, Michael Swanwick, Tess Kissinger, Robert Walters
How do we expect to change the galactic landscape in an ethical way, and what can we do as humans to decrease our impact on it? What does it mean to establish human settlements on worlds not our own? A discussion of space travel, space colonies, and morality.
Jazz Hiestand (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Tom Purdom, Tobias Cabral, Joseph Haughey
As a theme and an image in science fiction. Think of Ghost in the Shell, Blade Runner, New York 2140, and Metropolis. How does the nature of a city inform the stories set within it?
Carl Paolino (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Tom Purdom, Kim Kindya, Eric Parmer, Ty Drago
Tom Purdom (mod), Michael A. Ventrella, Leigh Grossman
Cixin Liu's Dark Forest trilogy and John Scalzi's Old Man's War universe have reignited the "hostile aliens" theory. Was the Voyager map a mistake? Or will they just come for more Chuck Berry?
Bob Hranek (mod), Bruce Dykes, Tom Purdom
What elements contribute to the construction, aesthetic, and cultural significance of your characters' clothing? What does it imply about the world they live in?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Byron Connell, Muriel Stockdale, Tom Purdom, Susan Shwartz
Tom Purdom (mod), Dina Leacock
What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?
Leigh Grossman (mod), Elektra Hammond, Tom Purdom, Gil Cnaan, Carl Fink
Moderating a panel is more than just showing up and asking people to quiet down if a discussion gets out of hand. Learn what the best moderators do to prepare for and handle the panels they are responsible for managing.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Gordon Linzner, Susan Shwartz, Steven Brust, Ray Ridenour, Jeff Warner
Join us as we remember the film that broke all the rules and set the benchmark for future movies. What made it so groundbreaking? Does it still hold up today?
Rebecca Robare (mod), Michael A. Ventrella, Daniel Kimmel, Ray Ridenour
What are the best art applications? Platforms? Where do I learn to use them? Is a digital pen and tablet needed?
Ray Ridenour (mod), Alan Beck, Eric Hardenbrook, Nathan Lilly, Mike McPhail
Join us as we remember the film that broke all the rules and set the benchmark for future movies. What made it so groundbreaking? Does it still hold up today?
Rebecca Robare (mod), Michael A. Ventrella, Daniel Kimmel, Ray Ridenour
DS9 was singular in the Trekverse for its dramatic and often troubling depictions of interstellar politics, from people of honor and ideals frequently being forced to question or compromise their beliefs, to those who make no pretense of using any ends to justify their means. For the 25th anniversary of its premiere, a discussion of the series and its eerie prescience regarding real-world political conflicts and issues since its airing.
Russell J. Handelman (mod), Susan Shwartz, Daniel Kimmel, Jonathan Alexandratos, Orenthal Hawkins, Rebecca Robare
How can science fiction help us become more socially aware? What allows science fiction to address social issues in unique ways not found in other forms of literature, and how can we meaningfully use it to better our society?
Rebecca Robare (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Simone Zelitch, Phil Giunta, Michael A. Ventrella, Anastasia Klimchynskaya
Whether or not the teachings of Jung are current in psychology, they have had an enormous impact on literature and culture. Jung's ideas are the key to understanding writers as diverse as R.A. Lafferty and Ursula K. LeGuin. What has Jung contributed to fantastic literature?
Miriam Seidel (mod), Rebecca Robare, Shannon O’Shea, Linda J. Lee
3D printers have now been used to successfully print everything from rocket engines to human skin. How far are we from printing a cup of Earl Grey, Hot?
Earl Bennett (mod), John Monahan, Charlie Robertson, Bruce Dykes
After briefly convening for their November meeting, members of The Philadelphia Science Fiction Society- the organization behind Philcon- will answer any questions you have about the event and what to expect for the weekend.
Todd Dashoff (mod), Gary Feldbaum, Charlie Robertson
Join us as we discuss the fact and (science) fiction of near-future space military operations.
Bob Hranek (mod), Bruce Dykes, Paul Levinson, Charlie Robertson, Mark Wolverton, Andre Lieven
The movie blew all of us- and the box office expectations- out of the water. What can we expect to see next in Wakanda? How will the events of Infinity War affect their previous status quo?
Charlie Robertson (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Stephanie Burke, Gil Cnaan, Savan Gupta, F. M. Yates
If you're a fan of the show, this panel is not for you. Everyone else, please join us for a delightful roast!
Bruce Dykes (mod), Tony Finan, John Skylar, Charlie Robertson
What's the hottest tech about to change our world? Join us to discuss the promise, threat, and some things people usually don’t want to talk about.
Bob Hranek (mod), John Ashmead, Earl Bennett, Charlie Robertson, John Skylar
A discussion for writers of range and scope, HAM radio operation, the rise and descent of CB radio, common malfunctions and simple fixes, and where they can be found in the case of zombies.
Charlie Robertson (mod), Earl Bennett, Bruce Dykes
Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen (mod), Charlie Robertson
Roberta Rogow (mod)
Roberta Rogow (mod), Marc Grossman
A guide for horror and mystery writers. (Not murderers!)
Erin M. Hartshorn (mod), Roberta Rogow, Nicholas Kaufmann, Elizabeth Crowens, Brenda W. Clough, Russ Colchamiro
April Grey (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Sally Wiener Grotta, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Roberta Rogow, Elektra Hammond
Roberta Rogow (mod)
Roberta Rogow (mod)
The Chromatics perform a mix of themes from (and songs about) TV and movies, as well as songs about technology, life, and their intersections
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Dr. Padi Boyd, Scott Rohrbach
AstroCappella: A Musical Exploration of the Universe. The Chromatics' mission is to spread science through a cappella and a cappella through science across a wide swath of the known Universe. Multimedia performance!
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Alan P. Smale, Karen Smale, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach, Michelle Orhan
Worlds beyond our own solar system were once just science fiction, but today we know there are more planets than stars in our galaxy. How did that happen? Explore strange new worlds with Dr. Padi Boyd and the Chromatics, as they take you on a voyage of discovery with space science missions like the newly launched Transiting Exoplanet Survey satellite (TESS).
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Karen Smale, Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
The Chromatics sing AND talk! This is an all-original music show, featuring songwriter discussion and Q&A about the songs.
Alan P. Smale (mod), Karen Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
Visual arts, music, dance, dramatic performance- even the creation of speculative fiction- can't be the province of only humankind. What might these things look like on other planets? What about types of art created for sensory systems we don't have?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Stephanie Burke, Robert C. Roman, Peter Prellwitz, Michael Hanson
From ADHD and autism to wheelchairs and walkers, video games across platforms offer a unique way to connect people who otherwise would not have an avenue or outlet to reach out to people. How else does the world of digital storytelling open avenues for disabled content creators and consumers?
Michael Ryan (mod), Robert C. Roman, Muriel Hykes
When most people think of sci-fi anime they think of legendary giant robots, but some sci-fi anime gets the science more right than you may think!
Walter Amos (mod), Robert Fenelon, Ben Jorritsma, Robert C. Roman
Join us as we discuss the all-too-rare accurate depictions of military hardware, tactics and strategy in animation.
Robert Fenelon (mod), Brian T. Graening-Price, Walter Amos, Robert C. Roman
What are our favorite fanfic tropes, and why are they so satisfying to read? Why don't we see these tropes as often in 'regular' fiction? Would we *want* to?
Anastasia Klimchynskaya (mod), Robert C. Roman, Jay Smith
Realistically writing PTSD induced by speculative scenarios.
Leigh Grossman (mod), Jay Smith, Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Robert C. Roman
Do you keep walking by the "anime track", but aren't really sure about this anime stuff? Are you curious, but don't know where to start? This the panel for you! In this panel, we'll discuss some great series and movies for beginners to the anime, where you can watch them, and ways they may be both different and similar to traditional U.S. fare. Bring your favorite movie or genre, and we'll try find a show for you!
Kristyn Souder (mod), Stephanie Burke, Kim Kindya, Robert Fenelon, Robert C. Roman, Tim Souder
Our notions about romance, sex, and marriage are evolving to keep pace with a world that continues to gain a more nuanced understanding of gender identity, the spectrum of human sexuality, and what a family is. Does your writing reflect an inclusive future, or one where the standards of 1950's America have remained the norm?
Robert C. Roman (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Anna Kashina, Alana Phelan, Kevin Patterson, Linda J. Lee
How has Science Fiction been altered and explored in the realm of player-interactive content? What impact did Metroid have on fandom and SF storytelling? What about Mass Effect?
Michael Ryan (mod), Robert C. Roman, Orenthal Hawkins
A guide to keeping your characters safe, sane, and not turned into an equal volume of spiders.
Stephanie Burke (mod), Leigh Grossman, Ian Hanley, Gil Cnaan, Robert C. Roman
Is your character in need of justice? For the past fourteen years, the officers of Cosplay Court Case have arbitrated grievances across fandoms of all genres with assistance from audience members in this widely-loved improv event. So whether you're a Pokemon looking to file a restraining order against Ash Ketchum, Hondo Ohnaka suing the Jedi Council for wage theft, or want Fox McCloud tried for war crimes, come get yourself on the docket!
Savan Gupta (mod), Zee Bowditch, Kyle Lynch, Courtney Capacea, Robert C. Roman, Tauney Kennedy
Analyzing the works of Michael Moorcock and their impact of the Steampunk and Speculative Fiction genres. How do the concepts of the Multiverse, String Theory, Cosmic Foam, and Plato’s Sphere come into play?
Savan Gupta (mod), Gil Cnaan, Mark Singer, Tauney Kennedy, F. M. Yates, Robert C. Roman
Robert C. Roman (mod), Miriam Seidel, Stephanie Burke
When can science fiction most effectively mix with horror, fantasy, mysteries or any other genre? What ways can the boundaries of genres can be experimented with? Who's written excellent examples of this?
Gil Cnaan (mod), Michael Swanwick, Karalyn Morris, Stephanie Burke, Shannon O’Shea, Aaron Rosenberg
How to plan the project, manage time, and stay on budget.
Mike McPhail (mod), Chris Kreuter, John Skylar, Glenn Hauman, Aaron Rosenberg, April Grey
From cover design to distribution options, where do you take your masterpiece?
Alex Shvartsman (mod), Aaron Rosenberg, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Paul Levinson, Ken Altabef, Tee Morris
You want your audience drawn into the tension of suspenseful moments, not muttering, "Why didn't they just pack spare batteries?" during them. How do you develop plot devices that won't leave readers questioning your characters' intelligence?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Michael D'Ambrosio, Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Michael Swanwick, Aaron Rosenberg
It has been 35 years since Bruce Bethke’s genre-defining short story “Cyberpunk” was published in Amazing Stories. Since then we've had stories such as Neuromancer, Max Headroom, Hackers, The Matrix, and Ready Player One. Are tales of a highly-networked technological dystopian futures *too* relevant to be feel like fantasy these days?
Tobias Cabral (mod), Bruce Dykes, Nathan Lilly, Aaron Rosenberg
From ADHD and autism to wheelchairs and walkers, video games across platforms offer a unique way to connect people who otherwise would not have an avenue or outlet to reach out to people. How else does the world of digital storytelling open avenues for disabled content creators and consumers?
Michael Ryan (mod), Robert C. Roman, Muriel Hykes
A primer on how to identify and handle people who make gaming less fun for those around them. We'll discuss tactics and tools to use when dealing with trolls and other toxic influences on your gaming circles.
Michael Ryan (mod)
Are you an experienced D&D Player but want to run a campaign for the first time? Not sure where to start in running a Tabletop RPG? Join us for the tips and tricks to help you get started.
James Hicks (mod), Nathan Thatcher, Michael Ryan, Julie Ann Dawson
How has Science Fiction been altered and explored in the realm of player-interactive content? What impact did Metroid have on fandom and SF storytelling? What about Mass Effect?
Michael Ryan (mod), Robert C. Roman, Orenthal Hawkins
Use feathers, ribbons, buttons and trim- or learn how to sew a rosette to attach to the hat! We provide the hat, tables full of trims and bits to try, glue guns and supervision! Open to all- children under 10 should be accompanied/supervised by a parent, but they are welcome. Presented by Carol Salemi and Lisa Ashton
Carol Salemi (mod), Lisa Ashton
A beading workshop that teaches the technique of attaching a flat-back cabochon to fabric by beading around it with peyote beading. It's helpful to have a little sewing experience, but beginners also welcome. The kit has everything you need: beads, thread, choice of cabochons, needles and fabric.
Lisa Ashton (mod), Carol Salemi
What goes into the costuming and make-up used in Haunted Houses?
Anastasia Holt (mod), Carol Salemi
Make a Victorian style pincushion or hat stand and take it home with you! All materials provided including the stand- brass, wood, glass or ceramic, to make a fabulous pin cushion or hat stand you will love to have on your table! No experience necessary.
Carol Salemi (mod), Lisa Ashton
Or do you just want to socialize rather than shut yourself in your hotel room trying to get those last bits right? Either way, come on down!
Anastasia Holt (mod), Sarah Sanders, Pam Smith
Movie, game and comic characters are one thing, but what if you want to dress up as one from a book, or even your own original character? What do you need to take into consideration?
Muriel Stockdale (mod), Carl Paolino, Sarah Sanders, Anastasia Holt, Amy Fass
Fabric is great, but there’s so much more out there. Let’s talk about incorporating found objects and unconventional materials in props and costumes.
Sarah Sanders (mod), Carl Paolino, Heidi Hooper, Amy Fass
Kathy Sands (mod), Marc Glasser
Our presenters will discuss their approaches and experiences with creating a serial podcast.
Tee Morris (mod), Jay Smith, Michal Schick
So, what do you think about the newest season of Doctor Who, and its newest incarnation of The Doctor?
Michal Schick (mod)
Exploring the works of our Principal Speaker.
Joan Wendland (mod), Lawrence M. Schoen, Carl Fink
Lawrence M. Schoen (mod), Gordon Linzner, Susan Shwartz
Gordon Linzner (mod), Lawrence M. Schoen
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Danielle Ackley-McPhail
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Elektra Hammond, Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Gregory Frost, Karalyn Morris
Allan Steele has recently published a Captain Future novel. Can SF, which deliberately evokes older science fiction, still be regarded as speculative, or is it an alternate universe fantasy?
Jeff Warner (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Russell J. Handelman, Aaron Feldman
Magazine and small press editors discuss what goes into creating their publications, from the economics of staying viable in the electronic age to getting appropriate submissions.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Joshua Palmatier, Alex Shvartsman, Neil Clarke, Ian Randal Strock
Ellison was a prolific writer of short stories, novellas, teleplays, essays, and criticism, with over 1,700 works to his name. What impact did he have on genre storytelling? What were his best works?
Phil Giunta (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Mark Wolverton, Dina Leacock, Jay Smith
How Nikola Tesla influenced the imagination of Hugo Gernsback, and the impact it had on the SF genre.
Miriam Seidel (mod)
A discussion of the life and works of this massively influential author, and a celebration of the 50th anniversary of her landmark EarthSea series.
Simone Zelitch (mod), Victoria Janssen, Miriam Seidel, Susan Shwartz, Kim Kindya
A look back at the nominees for the 2018 Hugo Awards, as well as a discussion of other works we feel were equally deserving.
Terry Steiner Sisk Graybill (mod), Miriam Seidel, David Walton, Todd Dashoff
Robert C. Roman (mod), Miriam Seidel, Stephanie Burke
Whether or not the teachings of Jung are current in psychology, they have had an enormous impact on literature and culture. Jung's ideas are the key to understanding writers as diverse as R.A. Lafferty and Ursula K. LeGuin. What has Jung contributed to fantastic literature?
Miriam Seidel (mod), Rebecca Robare, Shannon O’Shea, Linda J. Lee
Batya Wittenberg (mod), Dr. H. Paul Shuch
Falling asleep for a hundred years is so passe. What are some fun, fresh, modern enchantments you can use to put your protagonists to the test?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Gordon Linzner, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Elektra Hammond, Alex Shvartsman
Beta-readers, developmental editors, copyeditors, proofreaders... What do I need, where do I find it, and how much will it cost?
Brenda W. Clough (mod), John Skylar, Ann Stolinsky, Alex Shvartsman, Ian Randal Strock, Michael Hanson
From cover design to distribution options, where do you take your masterpiece?
Alex Shvartsman (mod), Aaron Rosenberg, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Paul Levinson, Ken Altabef, Tee Morris
Just how does a "Kickstarter" work? Will Patreon's recent changes impact your ability to attract and keep Patrons? Is it worth setting up a KoFi account?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Philippa Ballantine, Alex Shvartsman, Alana Phelan, Glenn Hauman
Magazine and small press editors discuss what goes into creating their publications, from the economics of staying viable in the electronic age to getting appropriate submissions.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Joshua Palmatier, Alex Shvartsman, Neil Clarke, Ian Randal Strock
Moderating a panel is more than just showing up and asking people to quiet down if a discussion gets out of hand. Learn what the best moderators do to prepare for and handle the panels they are responsible for managing.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Gordon Linzner, Susan Shwartz, Steven Brust, Ray Ridenour, Jeff Warner
A discussion of the life and works of this massively influential author, and a celebration of the 50th anniversary of her landmark EarthSea series.
Simone Zelitch (mod), Victoria Janssen, Miriam Seidel, Susan Shwartz, Kim Kindya
Lawrence M. Schoen (mod), Gordon Linzner, Susan Shwartz
Advice and suggestions for creative professionals—writers and artists—on management and organization of their finances, personal planning for the future (savings, insurance, bequests), and whatever else may be of concern to those “working without a net” of corporate benefits.
Susan Shwartz (mod), Russell J. Handelman, Erin M. Hartshorn, Ian Randal Strock
DS9 was singular in the Trekverse for its dramatic and often troubling depictions of interstellar politics, from people of honor and ideals frequently being forced to question or compromise their beliefs, to those who make no pretense of using any ends to justify their means. For the 25th anniversary of its premiere, a discussion of the series and its eerie prescience regarding real-world political conflicts and issues since its airing.
Russell J. Handelman (mod), Susan Shwartz, Daniel Kimmel, Jonathan Alexandratos, Orenthal Hawkins, Rebecca Robare
What elements contribute to the construction, aesthetic, and cultural significance of your characters' clothing? What does it imply about the world they live in?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Byron Connell, Muriel Stockdale, Tom Purdom, Susan Shwartz
Moderating a panel is more than just showing up and asking people to quiet down if a discussion gets out of hand. Learn what the best moderators do to prepare for and handle the panels they are responsible for managing.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Gordon Linzner, Susan Shwartz, Steven Brust, Ray Ridenour, Jeff Warner
Tips on how to answer moderator questions, audience questions, not monopolize the panel, get a word in edgewise, combat imposter syndrome, and other aspects of handling your appearance as a Panel Presenter at cons.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Alyce Wilson, Joseph Haughey, Lawrence Kramer, Phil Giunta
Magazine and small press editors discuss what goes into creating their publications, from the economics of staying viable in the electronic age to getting appropriate submissions.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Joshua Palmatier, Alex Shvartsman, Neil Clarke, Ian Randal Strock
Whether it was because of a surprise cancellation that left us with a massive cliffhanger, or the intentional plotting of a Machiavellian team of writers, some series ended in ways that- even years later- make us want to shriek. What finale left you agape?
Tony Finan (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Alyce Wilson, Hildy Silverman, Tee Morris
Anne McCaffrey's longest-running series was a trailblazing hybrid of fantasy and science fiction. What impact has it had on SF, fantasy, and multi-genre works? How well does it hold up when viewed in the present era?
Victoria Janssen (mod), Hildy Silverman, Phillip Thorne, Elektra Hammond
Hildy Silverman (mod), Karen Heuler, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell
A lot of imagery and scenarios that used to terrify people are viewed as laughable by more recent generations. Are there horrors that are truly timeless? How do you invoke them into the mind of the modern-day reader?
Mark Singer (mod), Dina Leacock, Nicholas Kaufmann, Martin Berman-Gorvine, Karalyn Morris
Is SF inherently materialistic? While there are sf stories written from a religious viewpoint, they are in a distinct minority. What does this tell us about the inherent nature of SF and the freedom to speculate vs the rigidity of dogma?
David Walton (mod), Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen, Chris Kreuter, Lawrence Kramer, Mark Singer
A discussion of conspiracy theories, secret societies, and themes of cover-ups / the creation of a false consciousness by shadowy organizations in science fiction. Should we be concerned about how paranoid society seems to be getting? Or is it all just a government ploy...
Michael A. Ventrella (mod), Michael D'Ambrosio, Mark Singer, Martin Berman-Gorvine, Kevin Patterson
Analyzing the works of Michael Moorcock and their impact of the Steampunk and Speculative Fiction genres. How do the concepts of the Multiverse, String Theory, Cosmic Foam, and Plato’s Sphere come into play?
Savan Gupta (mod), Gil Cnaan, Mark Singer, Tauney Kennedy, F. M. Yates, Robert C. Roman
We are coming to a new understanding of how the brain and mind interrelate. How will this change current methods of therapy?
John Skylar (mod), Mary Spila, James Prego, Muriel Hykes
Despite near-universal condemnation of eugenics, the entangled nature of science and capitalism in our society means that someone will inevitably found a company that offers to "enhance" your children...for a fee. How will government regulations, epigenetics, common sense, and morality factor into the possible outcomes?
Jeff Warner (mod), James Prego, John Monahan, John Skylar, Lawrence Kramer, Muriel Hykes
How to plan the project, manage time, and stay on budget.
Mike McPhail (mod), Chris Kreuter, John Skylar, Glenn Hauman, Aaron Rosenberg, April Grey
Beta-readers, developmental editors, copyeditors, proofreaders... What do I need, where do I find it, and how much will it cost?
Brenda W. Clough (mod), John Skylar, Ann Stolinsky, Alex Shvartsman, Ian Randal Strock, Michael Hanson
Indie writers talk about their marketing successes and fails. How do you set realistic expectations for the response to your efforts?
Ken Altabef (mod), John Skylar, Paul Levinson, Russ Colchamiro, Michael Hanson
John Skylar (mod)
If you're a fan of the show, this panel is not for you. Everyone else, please join us for a delightful roast!
Bruce Dykes (mod), Tony Finan, John Skylar, Charlie Robertson
What's the hottest tech about to change our world? Join us to discuss the promise, threat, and some things people usually don’t want to talk about.
Bob Hranek (mod), John Ashmead, Earl Bennett, Charlie Robertson, John Skylar
Synthetic biology aims to create organisms that maintain and propagate themselves while producing a desired outcome, whether that is flowers that glow in the dark, cells that produce rare drugs, or architectural organisms that serve as living homes. From do-it-yourself biologists to biohackers to the International Genetically Engineered Machine, people are already bringing synthetic biology to life. We will discuss technologies that are available now, illustrative examples, and possible dangers of synthetic life.
Ronald C. Taylor (mod), Anna Kashina, Muriel Hykes, John Skylar
Let's explore the current understanding of human immune responses, and the constant battle that your immune system fights against invaders, ranging from such everyday threats as viruses to the exotic and deadly peanut. We will connect the basic science to several medical treatments on the market today, and explore what possibilities might exist in the future.
John Skylar (mod)
The Chromatics perform a mix of themes from (and songs about) TV and movies, as well as songs about technology, life, and their intersections
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Dr. Padi Boyd, Scott Rohrbach
AstroCappella: A Musical Exploration of the Universe. The Chromatics' mission is to spread science through a cappella and a cappella through science across a wide swath of the known Universe. Multimedia performance!
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Alan P. Smale, Karen Smale, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach, Michelle Orhan
How do you design characters that your audience will find not only three-dimensional, but *memorable*? What will adding a dash of this or that personality trait do to your audience's opinion of them?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Steven Brust, Alan P. Smale, Philippa Ballantine, Michael A. Ventrella
Alan P. Smale (mod), Philippa Ballantine, Chris Kreuter
Worlds beyond our own solar system were once just science fiction, but today we know there are more planets than stars in our galaxy. How did that happen? Explore strange new worlds with Dr. Padi Boyd and the Chromatics, as they take you on a voyage of discovery with space science missions like the newly launched Transiting Exoplanet Survey satellite (TESS).
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Karen Smale, Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
The Chromatics sing AND talk! This is an all-original music show, featuring songwriter discussion and Q&A about the songs.
Alan P. Smale (mod), Karen Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
Despite a long history in fiction of solo geniuses making the ultimate breakthroughs in their basement labs, collaboration is necessary for scientific advancement. So why do we glorify the loner scientist trope? Can we make collaborative science feel equally heroic? How do we portray science being done realistically while still meeting the needs of the story?
Jim Stratton (mod), John Ashmead, Aaron Feldman, Anna Kashina, Alan P. Smale, Tee Morris
The Chromatics perform a mix of themes from (and songs about) TV and movies, as well as songs about technology, life, and their intersections
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Dr. Padi Boyd, Scott Rohrbach
AstroCappella: A Musical Exploration of the Universe. The Chromatics' mission is to spread science through a cappella and a cappella through science across a wide swath of the known Universe. Multimedia performance!
Karen Smale (mod), Alan P. Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Alan P. Smale, Karen Smale, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach, Michelle Orhan
Worlds beyond our own solar system were once just science fiction, but today we know there are more planets than stars in our galaxy. How did that happen? Explore strange new worlds with Dr. Padi Boyd and the Chromatics, as they take you on a voyage of discovery with space science missions like the newly launched Transiting Exoplanet Survey satellite (TESS).
Dr. Padi Boyd (mod), Karen Smale, Alan P. Smale, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
The Chromatics sing AND talk! This is an all-original music show, featuring songwriter discussion and Q&A about the songs.
Alan P. Smale (mod), Karen Smale, Dr. Padi Boyd, Michelle Orhan, John Meyer, Scott Rohrbach
Our presenters will discuss their approaches and experiences with creating a serial podcast.
Tee Morris (mod), Jay Smith, Michal Schick
What are our favorite fanfic tropes, and why are they so satisfying to read? Why don't we see these tropes as often in 'regular' fiction? Would we *want* to?
Anastasia Klimchynskaya (mod), Robert C. Roman, Jay Smith
Realistically writing PTSD induced by speculative scenarios.
Leigh Grossman (mod), Jay Smith, Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Robert C. Roman
In the last year Marvel made us laugh with Ant-Man and The Wasp, cry with Guardians 2, and flat-out blew us away with Black Panther. And after spending the last ten years building up the teams, themes, and story elements necessary for Infinity War, the film appeared to tear the whole universe apart. So...what happens next?
Jay Smith (mod), Savan Gupta, Tauney Kennedy, Victoria Janssen, Kim Kindya, Glenn Hauman
Ellison was a prolific writer of short stories, novellas, teleplays, essays, and criticism, with over 1,700 works to his name. What impact did he have on genre storytelling? What were his best works?
Phil Giunta (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Mark Wolverton, Dina Leacock, Jay Smith
Steve Ditko was a major creative force in the creation of Marvel Comics. He was the original artist and co-creator of Spider-Man, crucial in the creation and visual design of Dr. Strange, originated the DC characters The Creeper, Hawk, Dove, & Shade the Changing Man, as well as ones Alan Moore used in his original pitch for the Watchmen.
F. M. Yates (mod), Pam Smith, Glenn Hauman
Or do you just want to socialize rather than shut yourself in your hotel room trying to get those last bits right? Either way, come on down!
Anastasia Holt (mod), Sarah Sanders, Pam Smith
What to expect from signing up, to receiving your first award.
Byron Connell (mod), Pam Smith, Heidi Hooper, Diane Kovalcin
[TV-14] A massive, highly advanced alien civilization called the Abh Empire invades the human-inhabited planet of Martine. Seven years later, his son meets a spirited Abh princess who will guide him through an impending intergalactic war.
Tim Souder (mod), Kristyn Souder
[TV-14] Kyon is a cynical and sarcastic teenager. The first day of his first year of high school is filled with hopes of a normal school experience—hopes that are immediately dashed after meeting the beautiful and eccentric Haruhi Suzumiya. At Kyon’s accidental suggestion, she decides to create her own club dedicated to finding and observing life’s oddities—like the aliens, espers, and time travelers she believes walk among normal people.
Kristyn Souder (mod), Tim Souder
[TV-14] Kyon is a cynical and sarcastic teenager. The first day of his first year of high school is filled with hopes of a normal school experience—hopes that are immediately dashed after meeting the beautiful and eccentric Haruhi Suzumiya. At Kyon’s accidental suggestion, she decides to create her own club dedicated to finding and observing life’s oddities—like the aliens, espers, and time travelers she believes walk among normal people.
Kristyn Souder (mod), Tim Souder
Do you keep walking by the "anime track", but aren't really sure about this anime stuff? Are you curious, but don't know where to start? This the panel for you! In this panel, we'll discuss some great series and movies for beginners to the anime, where you can watch them, and ways they may be both different and similar to traditional U.S. fare. Bring your favorite movie or genre, and we'll try find a show for you!
Kristyn Souder (mod), Stephanie Burke, Kim Kindya, Robert Fenelon, Robert C. Roman, Tim Souder
[PG] Hana was a student before she was a mother. She was bright and pretty, and her future held endless possibilities. Then she met a man, who turned out to be a wolf, and together they built a family.
Tim Souder (mod), Kristyn Souder
[PG] Hana was a student before she was a mother. She was bright and pretty, and her future held endless possibilities. Then she met a man, who turned out to be a wolf, and together they built a family.
Kristyn Souder (mod), Tim Souder
What would you like to say about this year's convention? How can Philcon provide for your interests in future years?
Todd Dashoff (mod), Lynati, Terry Steiner Sisk Graybill, Kristyn Souder
[TV-14] A massive, highly advanced alien civilization called the Abh Empire invades the human-inhabited planet of Martine. Seven years later, his son meets a spirited Abh princess who will guide him through an impending intergalactic war.
Tim Souder (mod), Kristyn Souder
[TV-MA]The rogue vampire Alucard is the Hellsing Organization's deadliest instrument in its mission to protect the British Empire from undead ghouls and satanic freaks.
Tim Souder (mod), Robert Zygala
[TV-14] Kyon is a cynical and sarcastic teenager. The first day of his first year of high school is filled with hopes of a normal school experience—hopes that are immediately dashed after meeting the beautiful and eccentric Haruhi Suzumiya. At Kyon’s accidental suggestion, she decides to create her own club dedicated to finding and observing life’s oddities—like the aliens, espers, and time travelers she believes walk among normal people.
Kristyn Souder (mod), Tim Souder
[TV-14] Kyon is a cynical and sarcastic teenager. The first day of his first year of high school is filled with hopes of a normal school experience—hopes that are immediately dashed after meeting the beautiful and eccentric Haruhi Suzumiya. At Kyon’s accidental suggestion, she decides to create her own club dedicated to finding and observing life’s oddities—like the aliens, espers, and time travelers she believes walk among normal people.
Kristyn Souder (mod), Tim Souder
Do you keep walking by the "anime track", but aren't really sure about this anime stuff? Are you curious, but don't know where to start? This the panel for you! In this panel, we'll discuss some great series and movies for beginners to the anime, where you can watch them, and ways they may be both different and similar to traditional U.S. fare. Bring your favorite movie or genre, and we'll try find a show for you!
Kristyn Souder (mod), Stephanie Burke, Kim Kindya, Robert Fenelon, Robert C. Roman, Tim Souder
[TV-14] Earth is on the verge of complete annihilation. Threatened by an intergalactic superpower known as Gamilas, humankind’s last hope for survival depends upon the generous assistance of another alien civilization - Iscandar. The Space Battleship Yamato - manned by a skilled, motivated crew and with advanced tech at its core - has only one year to seek out this planet and recover a device that could revitalize Earth.
Tim Souder (mod), Robert Zygala
[TV-14] Earth is on the verge of complete annihilation. Threatened by an intergalactic superpower known as Gamilas, humankind’s last hope for survival depends upon the generous assistance of another alien civilization - Iscandar. The Space Battleship Yamato - manned by a skilled, motivated crew and with advanced tech at its core - has only one year to seek out this planet and recover a device that could revitalize Earth.
Tim Souder (mod), Robert Zygala
[PG] Hana was a student before she was a mother. She was bright and pretty, and her future held endless possibilities. Then she met a man, who turned out to be a wolf, and together they built a family.
Tim Souder (mod), Kristyn Souder
[PG] Hana was a student before she was a mother. She was bright and pretty, and her future held endless possibilities. Then she met a man, who turned out to be a wolf, and together they built a family.
Kristyn Souder (mod), Tim Souder
Recently made available streaming on Amazon Prime, this pioneering Science Fiction TV show featured a fully-plotted story arc for each season, even as each episode told a single story. Fans both old and new will share reasons why *you* should watch it...while avoiding spoilers.
Tony Finan (mod), Ken Altabef, Elektra Hammond, Tim Souder, Lawrence Kramer, Mark Wolverton
[TV-14] It’s 1940 and the world is in the throes of war. Germania has threatened to invade a small neighboring country, putting their princess in danger. But in the midst of it all, a mysterious power awakens. The last witch has come to the aid of the princess, combining magic and weaponry to take on enemies.
Tim Souder (mod), Robert Zygala
We are coming to a new understanding of how the brain and mind interrelate. How will this change current methods of therapy?
John Skylar (mod), Mary Spila, James Prego, Muriel Hykes
The source of the popularization of Celtic myth, fairies, and ghost stories, what does modern fantasy owe to developments of the Victorian era?
Philippa Ballantine (mod), Mary Spila, Linda J. Lee, Elizabeth Crowens
From casual social situations to job interviews, what signals are you sending?
Phil Giunta (mod), Tobias Cabral, Mary Spila
Writers from Tanith Lee to Cat Valente to Seanan McGuire have incorporated and transformed fairy tales in their work. How have they managed to update the stories in a manner that feels both in line with the originals and relevant to the present day? Are their adaptations actually darker than the source material, or have the Disney versions just changed what we think of as the standard?
Philippa Ballantine (mod), Kim Kindya, Mary Spila, Eric Parmer, Karen Heuler, Linda J. Lee
Joan Wendland (mod), Muriel Stockdale, Paul Levinson
Movie, game and comic characters are one thing, but what if you want to dress up as one from a book, or even your own original character? What do you need to take into consideration?
Muriel Stockdale (mod), Carl Paolino, Sarah Sanders, Anastasia Holt, Amy Fass
Muriel Stockdale (mod), Martin Berman-Gorvine
Who your narrator is, how the story is perceived, and where the “camera” is can make all the difference in the success or failure in a story. What stories have used these elements in successful ways?
Jim Stratton (mod), Steven Brust, Dina Leacock, Bernie Mojzes, Gregory Frost, Muriel Stockdale
What elements contribute to the construction, aesthetic, and cultural significance of your characters' clothing? What does it imply about the world they live in?
Jazz Hiestand (mod), Byron Connell, Muriel Stockdale, Tom Purdom, Susan Shwartz
Beta-readers, developmental editors, copyeditors, proofreaders... What do I need, where do I find it, and how much will it cost?
Brenda W. Clough (mod), John Skylar, Ann Stolinsky, Alex Shvartsman, Ian Randal Strock, Michael Hanson
A hands-on, family-friendly workshop. Learn how to put together a game of your own design with your family or friends!
Chris Kreuter (mod), Bruce Dykes, Ann Stolinsky, Virginia Swann
Our yearly audience-participation reading of what is best known as the worst piece of fantasy fiction ever published in a magazine.
Richard Stout (mod), Kim Kindya, Daniel Kimmel, Ian Randal Strock
A discussion of the making and production of the original 1933 fantasy adventure classic and its lasting cultural significance, as well as its countless remakes, sequels, and reboots. Join film scholar Steve Vertlieb and writer Richard Stout for this loving remembrance of, perhaps, the greatest "Monster" film of all time.
Steve Vertlieb (mod), Richard Stout, Carl Paolino, Samuel Delany
Steven King has been called the modern Charles Dickens—and not only for his copious output. Is that a reasonable assessment? Is King entitled to Dickens' throne? If you like your panels like your martinis—with an Olive or Twist—come join the discussion.
Richard Stout (mod), Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Joan Wendland
What elements should you keep in mind while writing a novel if you're hoping to eventually see it onscreen?
Richard Stout (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Barna William Donovan, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Carl Paolino, Michael D'Ambrosio
How much actual supernaturalism or other fantastic elements (dragons, magic, elves, etc.) does a fantasy story require? There are examples of books marketed as fantasy, set in imaginary places, that contain no fantastic elements- How do they function within the genre?
Jim Stratton (mod), Ken Altabef, Sally Wiener Grotta, Carl Paolino, Marshall Ryan Maresca, Anna Kashina
What creative and original - but scientifically plausible - ways are left for storytellers to destroy the world?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Joshua Palmatier, Karen Heuler, Eric Hardenbrook, Jim Stratton
Who your narrator is, how the story is perceived, and where the “camera” is can make all the difference in the success or failure in a story. What stories have used these elements in successful ways?
Jim Stratton (mod), Steven Brust, Dina Leacock, Bernie Mojzes, Gregory Frost, Muriel Stockdale
Despite a long history in fiction of solo geniuses making the ultimate breakthroughs in their basement labs, collaboration is necessary for scientific advancement. So why do we glorify the loner scientist trope? Can we make collaborative science feel equally heroic? How do we portray science being done realistically while still meeting the needs of the story?
Jim Stratton (mod), John Ashmead, Aaron Feldman, Anna Kashina, Alan P. Smale, Tee Morris
Our yearly audience-participation reading of what is best known as the worst piece of fantasy fiction ever published in a magazine.
Richard Stout (mod), Kim Kindya, Daniel Kimmel, Ian Randal Strock
Beta-readers, developmental editors, copyeditors, proofreaders... What do I need, where do I find it, and how much will it cost?
Brenda W. Clough (mod), John Skylar, Ann Stolinsky, Alex Shvartsman, Ian Randal Strock, Michael Hanson
Advice and suggestions for creative professionals—writers and artists—on management and organization of their finances, personal planning for the future (savings, insurance, bequests), and whatever else may be of concern to those “working without a net” of corporate benefits.
Susan Shwartz (mod), Russell J. Handelman, Erin M. Hartshorn, Ian Randal Strock
Magazine and small press editors discuss what goes into creating their publications, from the economics of staying viable in the electronic age to getting appropriate submissions.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Joshua Palmatier, Alex Shvartsman, Neil Clarke, Ian Randal Strock
This is an epic story. You are members of the Golden Templars, a sect within the Knight Templars who receive communion from the Holy Grail which grants them abilities beyond normal men and women. You are tasked with keeping the peace in Jerusalem and protecting the pilgrims who visit it. The feel of the campaign is mainly comic book with some secret history. Check out the Obsidian Portal: https://golden-templars.obsidianportal.com/ for more information.
John Swann (mod)
Get together with fellow gamers and fans to kick off the weekend.
Virginia Swann (mod)
CAH is "a party game for horrible people." Each round, one player asks a question from a Black Card, and everyone else answers with their funniest White Card.
Virginia Swann (mod)
A hands-on, family-friendly workshop. Learn how to put together a game of your own design with your family or friends!
Chris Kreuter (mod), Bruce Dykes, Ann Stolinsky, Virginia Swann
The Gaming Suite is always open to all ages. We do like to offer a time when parents might like to bring the kids in for game time. There will also be an All-Ages Game Design workshop happening at noon in the Suite.
Virginia Swann (mod)
The Gaming Suite is always open to all ages. We do like to offer a time when parents might like to bring the kids in for game time. There will also be an All-Ages Game Design workshop happening at noon in the Suite.
Virginia Swann (mod)
CAH is "a party game for horrible people." Each round, one player asks a question from a Black Card, and everyone else answers with their funniest White Card.
Virginia Swann (mod)
When can science fiction most effectively mix with horror, fantasy, mysteries or any other genre? What ways can the boundaries of genres can be experimented with? Who's written excellent examples of this?
Gil Cnaan (mod), Michael Swanwick, Karalyn Morris, Stephanie Burke, Shannon O’Shea, Aaron Rosenberg
Remembering Gardner Dozois -- A gathering to honor Philadelphia’s own Gardner Dozois. In addition to his 15 Hugos as Best Editor, he was two-time Nebula winner for short fiction as a writer, the founder and editor of the Year's Best Science Fiction anthologies, and editor of Isaac Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine for 20 years. Come join us in celebrating his life.
David M. Axler (mod), Tom Purdom, Samuel Delany, Michael Swanwick, Tess Kissinger, Robert Walters
You want your audience drawn into the tension of suspenseful moments, not muttering, "Why didn't they just pack spare batteries?" during them. How do you develop plot devices that won't leave readers questioning your characters' intelligence?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Michael D'Ambrosio, Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Michael Swanwick, Aaron Rosenberg
Science Fiction is the genre best suited for ideas that challenge the status quo, because it is not bound by our reality as we know it. At the same time, SF has existed for long enough that it has become full of ossified paradigms that no longer force us to examine our perspectives. How do we keep our ideas relevant given the evolutionary nature of the genre while also dealing with the natural tendency of fiction to recycle cliches, frameworks, and touchstones that are familiar to us?
Michael Swanwick (mod), Martin Berman-Gorvine, Eric Hardenbrook, Mike McPhail, Peter Prellwitz
Working in teams of two, each team will conduct a full synbio experiment using a safe, publicly available lab strain of E. coli, working under the guidance of the scientists in charge of the session, and following a simple protocol. Also, as time permits, a live demo of an open source BioCAD software tool will be given, showing how biological circuit design can be done.
Ronald C. Taylor (mod)
Synthetic biology aims to create organisms that maintain and propagate themselves while producing a desired outcome, whether that is flowers that glow in the dark, cells that produce rare drugs, or architectural organisms that serve as living homes. From do-it-yourself biologists to biohackers to the International Genetically Engineered Machine, people are already bringing synthetic biology to life. We will discuss technologies that are available now, illustrative examples, and possible dangers of synthetic life.
Ronald C. Taylor (mod), Anna Kashina, Muriel Hykes, John Skylar
A look at the Mecha Genre's influence on "Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha." Nanoha Takamachi's journey may have started with saving a talking ferret, but her world has more in common with that of Gundam Pilot Amuro Ray than that of other Magical Girls. Join us as we explore how the Nanoha franchise has taken inspiration from the Mecha genre.
James Hicks (mod), Nathan Thatcher
Who is the best Evangelion Pilot? What do the last 2 episodes really mean? Is Hideaki Anno legitimately insane or just a misunderstood artist? Join us for an open debate and discussion on the groundbreaking anime "Neon Genesis Evangelion"
James Hicks (mod), Nathan Thatcher
Are you an experienced D&D Player but want to run a campaign for the first time? Not sure where to start in running a Tabletop RPG? Join us for the tips and tricks to help you get started.
James Hicks (mod), Nathan Thatcher, Michael Ryan, Julie Ann Dawson
No need to have watched TV; in each round, after listening to four named audio clips, identify the challenge clip.
Phillip Thorne (mod)
Explore construction systems beyond the paradigm of LEGO bricks.
Phillip Thorne (mod)
Fourteen years ago, an animated cartoon show on Adult Swim paved the way for the idea of a shared cross continuity entertainment universe. Blending elements from comics, pulp, science fiction, spy shows, Scooby Doo, and David Bowie and putting them against the backdrop of a failed Jet Age future...and now it's back!
Orenthal Hawkins (mod), Kim Kindya, Phillip Thorne
Explore construction systems beyond the paradigm of LEGO bricks.
Phillip Thorne (mod)
Craft your own creatures with this self-drying clay!
Phillip Thorne (mod)
Go old-school and short-form in experiments with thaumatrope, zoetrope and flipbook. Color the pre-made strips or draw your own on templates!
Phillip Thorne (mod)
Explore construction systems beyond the paradigm of LEGO bricks.
Phillip Thorne (mod)
Anne McCaffrey's longest-running series was a trailblazing hybrid of fantasy and science fiction. What impact has it had on SF, fantasy, and multi-genre works? How well does it hold up when viewed in the present era?
Victoria Janssen (mod), Hildy Silverman, Phillip Thorne, Elektra Hammond
Pick from seven colors, then decorate the hilt with duct tape and other materials. Excellent for fun (or catharsis) at home!
Phillip Thorne (mod)
A fond look back on the little show that could. Audience participation appreciated!
Phillip Thorne (mod)
Join us as we remember the film that broke all the rules and set the benchmark for future movies. What made it so groundbreaking? Does it still hold up today?
Rebecca Robare (mod), Michael A. Ventrella, Daniel Kimmel, Ray Ridenour
How do you design characters that your audience will find not only three-dimensional, but *memorable*? What will adding a dash of this or that personality trait do to your audience's opinion of them?
Vikki Ciaffone (mod), Steven Brust, Alan P. Smale, Philippa Ballantine, Michael A. Ventrella
Tom Purdom (mod), Michael A. Ventrella, Leigh Grossman
Leigh Grossman (mod), Michael A. Ventrella
A discussion of conspiracy theories, secret societies, and themes of cover-ups / the creation of a false consciousness by shadowy organizations in science fiction. Should we be concerned about how paranoid society seems to be getting? Or is it all just a government ploy...
Michael A. Ventrella (mod), Michael D'Ambrosio, Mark Singer, Martin Berman-Gorvine, Kevin Patterson
How can science fiction help us become more socially aware? What allows science fiction to address social issues in unique ways not found in other forms of literature, and how can we meaningfully use it to better our society?
Rebecca Robare (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Simone Zelitch, Phil Giunta, Michael A. Ventrella, Anastasia Klimchynskaya
What exactly is our fascination with dinosaurs, Godzilla, and other creatures that could step on us without noticing?
Nicholas Kaufmann (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Tony Finan, D.L. Carter, Eric Parmer, Stephanie Burke
A discussion of the making and production of the original 1933 fantasy adventure classic and its lasting cultural significance, as well as its countless remakes, sequels, and reboots. Join film scholar Steve Vertlieb and writer Richard Stout for this loving remembrance of, perhaps, the greatest "Monster" film of all time.
Steve Vertlieb (mod), Richard Stout, Carl Paolino, Samuel Delany
"Fifty years ago, Stanley Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke set out to make a new kind of sci-fi. How does their future look now that it’s the past?" This question was asked in a recent article in The New Yorker, and now we're asking you.
Jeff Warner (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Alyce Wilson, Brandon Budda, Daniel Kimmel, Samuel Delany
Remembering Gardner Dozois -- A gathering to honor Philadelphia’s own Gardner Dozois. In addition to his 15 Hugos as Best Editor, he was two-time Nebula winner for short fiction as a writer, the founder and editor of the Year's Best Science Fiction anthologies, and editor of Isaac Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine for 20 years. Come join us in celebrating his life.
David M. Axler (mod), Tom Purdom, Samuel Delany, Michael Swanwick, Tess Kissinger, Robert Walters
Artists are always being asked to work for exposure. When is working for free (or “on-spec”) a bad idea? When is it a good idea? How do you know the difference?
Nathan Lilly (mod), Lisa Hertel, Heidi Hooper, Tess Kissinger, Mike McPhail, Robert Walters
Learn the basics of drawing dinos from a pair of pros!
Tess Kissinger (mod), Robert Walters
Editors and art directors discuss their guidelines, pay rates, how they evaluate art for their magazine, and how to (politely) get their attention.
Tess Kissinger (mod), Robert Walters
Tess Kissinger (mod), Robert Walters
Creating empathy for humanity's not-quite-human creations was groundbreaking with Frankenstein, but now, stories told from the perspective of A.I. are common enough that they've become their own sub-genre. How do these stories affect how we perceive ourselves? Have we reached the point where we have more empathy for robots than we do for other humans?
Joan Wendland (mod), Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Barna William Donovan, Neil Clarke, David Walton
A look back at the nominees for the 2018 Hugo Awards, as well as a discussion of other works we feel were equally deserving.
Terry Steiner Sisk Graybill (mod), Miriam Seidel, David Walton, Todd Dashoff
Is SF inherently materialistic? While there are sf stories written from a religious viewpoint, they are in a distinct minority. What does this tell us about the inherent nature of SF and the freedom to speculate vs the rigidity of dogma?
David Walton (mod), Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen, Chris Kreuter, Lawrence Kramer, Mark Singer
Moderating a panel is more than just showing up and asking people to quiet down if a discussion gets out of hand. Learn what the best moderators do to prepare for and handle the panels they are responsible for managing.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Gordon Linzner, Susan Shwartz, Steven Brust, Ray Ridenour, Jeff Warner
Despite near-universal condemnation of eugenics, the entangled nature of science and capitalism in our society means that someone will inevitably found a company that offers to "enhance" your children...for a fee. How will government regulations, epigenetics, common sense, and morality factor into the possible outcomes?
Jeff Warner (mod), James Prego, John Monahan, John Skylar, Lawrence Kramer, Muriel Hykes
How do these universes differ in the ways they depict their tech? How did the history of each world affect the invention and uses of medical devices, weaponry, methods of transportation, and robotic beings?
Jeff Warner (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Jay Wile, Anna Kashina, Glenn Hauman
"Fifty years ago, Stanley Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke set out to make a new kind of sci-fi. How does their future look now that it’s the past?" This question was asked in a recent article in The New Yorker, and now we're asking you.
Jeff Warner (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Alyce Wilson, Brandon Budda, Daniel Kimmel, Samuel Delany
Allan Steele has recently published a Captain Future novel. Can SF, which deliberately evokes older science fiction, still be regarded as speculative, or is it an alternate universe fantasy?
Jeff Warner (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Russell J. Handelman, Aaron Feldman
Joan Wendland (mod), Muriel Stockdale, Paul Levinson
Exploring the works of our Principal Speaker.
Joan Wendland (mod), Lawrence M. Schoen, Carl Fink
Neil Clarke (mod), Joan Wendland
Creating empathy for humanity's not-quite-human creations was groundbreaking with Frankenstein, but now, stories told from the perspective of A.I. are common enough that they've become their own sub-genre. How do these stories affect how we perceive ourselves? Have we reached the point where we have more empathy for robots than we do for other humans?
Joan Wendland (mod), Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Barna William Donovan, Neil Clarke, David Walton
...and how do I write one??
Joan Wendland (mod), Elizabeth Crowens, Erin M. Hartshorn, Shannon O’Shea, D.L. Carter, Sally Wiener Grotta
Steven King has been called the modern Charles Dickens—and not only for his copious output. Is that a reasonable assessment? Is King entitled to Dickens' throne? If you like your panels like your martinis—with an Olive or Twist—come join the discussion.
Richard Stout (mod), Leigh Grossman, Ty Drago, Joan Wendland
What they are, what they are NOT, why it's A Bad Idea to confuse a black hole with a wormhole, and how to use them in scientifically accurate ways in your writing.
Dr. Valerie J. Mikles (mod), Bob Hranek, John Ashmead, Jay Wile, Peter Prellwitz
How do these universes differ in the ways they depict their tech? How did the history of each world affect the invention and uses of medical devices, weaponry, methods of transportation, and robotic beings?
Jeff Warner (mod), John Ashmead, Inge Heyer, Jay Wile, Anna Kashina, Glenn Hauman
There's a lot to unpack in this one...where to begin? What does Michael represent in the growth of how female characters have been depicted in the franchise? Did they portray PTSD realistically? How effective was their commentary on contemporary issues? Given how many characters died overall, did the death of "minority" characters still feel like fridging?
Ty Drago (mod), Jonathan Alexandratos, Anastasia Klimchynskaya, Inge Heyer, Glenn McDorman, Jay Wile
People differ in how they read (or listen) to a story. They may read fast or linger over the text. They may search back for “clues” or just go for the ride. How can the different modes impact your experience?
Brandon Budda (mod), Alyce Wilson, Nicholas MacDonald-Martell, Eric Hardenbrook, Glenn McDorman
Tips on how to answer moderator questions, audience questions, not monopolize the panel, get a word in edgewise, combat imposter syndrome, and other aspects of handling your appearance as a Panel Presenter at cons.
Hildy Silverman (mod), Alyce Wilson, Joseph Haughey, Lawrence Kramer, Phil Giunta
"Fifty years ago, Stanley Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke set out to make a new kind of sci-fi. How does their future look now that it’s the past?" This question was asked in a recent article in The New Yorker, and now we're asking you.
Jeff Warner (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Alyce Wilson, Brandon Budda, Daniel Kimmel, Samuel Delany
Whether it was because of a surprise cancellation that left us with a massive cliffhanger, or the intentional plotting of a Machiavellian team of writers, some series ended in ways that- even years later- make us want to shriek. What finale left you agape?
Tony Finan (mod), Marshall Ryan Maresca, Alyce Wilson, Hildy Silverman, Tee Morris
Even established long-term professional writers still work to improve their skills. Authors discuss things they have learned along the way, and how they have gained new levels of expertise.
D.L. Carter (mod), Gregory Frost, Alyce Wilson, Joshua Palmatier, Sally Wiener Grotta, Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen
Phil Giunta (mod), Steve Wilson
Batya Wittenberg (mod)
Batya Wittenberg (mod)
Batya Wittenberg (mod), Dr. H. Paul Shuch
Samuel Delany (mod), Barna William Donovan, Mark Wolverton
Join us as we discuss the fact and (science) fiction of near-future space military operations.
Bob Hranek (mod), Bruce Dykes, Paul Levinson, Charlie Robertson, Mark Wolverton, Andre Lieven
Ellison was a prolific writer of short stories, novellas, teleplays, essays, and criticism, with over 1,700 works to his name. What impact did he have on genre storytelling? What were his best works?
Phil Giunta (mod), Darrell Schweitzer, Mark Wolverton, Dina Leacock, Jay Smith
Recently made available streaming on Amazon Prime, this pioneering Science Fiction TV show featured a fully-plotted story arc for each season, even as each episode told a single story. Fans both old and new will share reasons why *you* should watch it...while avoiding spoilers.
Tony Finan (mod), Ken Altabef, Elektra Hammond, Tim Souder, Lawrence Kramer, Mark Wolverton
Steve Ditko was a major creative force in the creation of Marvel Comics. He was the original artist and co-creator of Spider-Man, crucial in the creation and visual design of Dr. Strange, originated the DC characters The Creeper, Hawk, Dove, & Shade the Changing Man, as well as ones Alan Moore used in his original pitch for the Watchmen.
F. M. Yates (mod), Pam Smith, Glenn Hauman
Brigand Rohan Mauryan Balraj and his crew present an all-ages storytelling session featuring Vedic tales...with a twist! What will it be tonight? The Cycle of Shiva, Sati & Ganesh as a Domestic Dispute? Incarnations of Vishnu as WWE encounters? (Audience participation strongly encouraged!)
Savan Gupta (mod), F. M. Yates, Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch
A new story for a new hour! Join master storyteller Brigand Rohan Mauryan Balraj and his crew for another Vedic tale with a twist!
Savan Gupta (mod), F. M. Yates, Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch
The movie blew all of us- and the box office expectations- out of the water. What can we expect to see next in Wakanda? How will the events of Infinity War affect their previous status quo?
Charlie Robertson (mod), Orenthal Hawkins, Stephanie Burke, Gil Cnaan, Savan Gupta, F. M. Yates
An exploration of Vedic & Southeast Asian SF & F through the numerous instances, concepts and derivative works produced by both Western and Eastern presses. We'll talk about Scripture, Literature, Saga Poetry, Graphic Novels, RPGs and more, from the Rg Veda and Ramayana 3392 A.D. to Escher and Exalted RPG.
Savan Gupta (mod), Tauney Kennedy, Zee Bowditch, F. M. Yates
Analyzing the works of Michael Moorcock and their impact of the Steampunk and Speculative Fiction genres. How do the concepts of the Multiverse, String Theory, Cosmic Foam, and Plato’s Sphere come into play?
Savan Gupta (mod), Gil Cnaan, Mark Singer, Tauney Kennedy, F. M. Yates, Robert C. Roman
A discussion of the life and works of this massively influential author, and a celebration of the 50th anniversary of her landmark EarthSea series.
Simone Zelitch (mod), Victoria Janssen, Miriam Seidel, Susan Shwartz, Kim Kindya
How can science fiction help us become more socially aware? What allows science fiction to address social issues in unique ways not found in other forms of literature, and how can we meaningfully use it to better our society?
Rebecca Robare (mod), Dr. Valerie J. Mikles, Simone Zelitch, Phil Giunta, Michael A. Ventrella, Anastasia Klimchynskaya
[TV-14] A massive, highly advanced alien civilization called the Abh Empire invades the human-inhabited planet of Martine. Seven years later, his son meets a spirited Abh princess who will guide him through an impending intergalactic war.
Robert Zygala (mod)
[TV-MA]The rogue vampire Alucard is the Hellsing Organization's deadliest instrument in its mission to protect the British Empire from undead ghouls and satanic freaks.
Tim Souder (mod), Robert Zygala
[TV-14] It’s an exciting age of heroes, where most people develop supernatural abilities known as Quirks. Bright-eyed kids like Izuku Midoriya — Deku for short — dream of the day they become champions of the people. There’s just one little problem standing in Deku’s way. In a world full of heroes, he’s Quirkless.
Robert Zygala (mod)
[TV-14] It’s an exciting age of heroes, where most people develop supernatural abilities known as Quirks. Bright-eyed kids like Izuku Midoriya — Deku for short — dream of the day they become champions of the people. There’s just one little problem standing in Deku’s way. In a world full of heroes, he’s Quirkless.
Robert Zygala (mod)
[TV-14] It’s an exciting age of heroes, where most people develop supernatural abilities known as Quirks. Bright-eyed kids like Izuku Midoriya — Deku for short — dream of the day they become champions of the people. There’s just one little problem standing in Deku’s way. In a world full of heroes, he’s Quirkless.
Robert Zygala (mod)
[TV-14] Earth is on the verge of complete annihilation. Threatened by an intergalactic superpower known as Gamilas, humankind’s last hope for survival depends upon the generous assistance of another alien civilization - Iscandar. The Space Battleship Yamato - manned by a skilled, motivated crew and with advanced tech at its core - has only one year to seek out this planet and recover a device that could revitalize Earth.
Tim Souder (mod), Robert Zygala
[TV-14] Earth is on the verge of complete annihilation. Threatened by an intergalactic superpower known as Gamilas, humankind’s last hope for survival depends upon the generous assistance of another alien civilization - Iscandar. The Space Battleship Yamato - manned by a skilled, motivated crew and with advanced tech at its core - has only one year to seek out this planet and recover a device that could revitalize Earth.
Tim Souder (mod), Robert Zygala
[TV-14] It’s 1940 and the world is in the throes of war. Germania has threatened to invade a small neighboring country, putting their princess in danger. But in the midst of it all, a mysterious power awakens. The last witch has come to the aid of the princess, combining magic and weaponry to take on enemies.
Robert Zygala (mod)
[TV-14] It’s 1940 and the world is in the throes of war. Germania has threatened to invade a small neighboring country, putting their princess in danger. But in the midst of it all, a mysterious power awakens. The last witch has come to the aid of the princess, combining magic and weaponry to take on enemies.
Tim Souder (mod), Robert Zygala