Get hands on experience and learn new techniques in beadworking
Lisa Ashton (mod)
Lisa Ashton (mod)
Loren's demo is open to all, but space is limited to six people for those who wish to make a set of earrings.
Loren Damewood (mod)
Loren Damewood (mod)
Eric Flint (mod)
Marvin Kaye (mod), Patrick Thomas, Jonathan Maberry
Michael F. Flynn (mod), Dina Leacock, John Wright
Ann Tonsor Zeddies (mod), Paul Halpern, L Hunter Cassells
Josepha Sherman (mod), Gordon Linzner
Christine Norris (mod), Phil Kahn
L.A. Banks (mod), Linda Addison, James Daniel Ross
Bud Sparhawk (mod), Gary Frank, Walter Hunt
Attending your first Philcon. This panel will help you understand what is going on and enjoy your first Philcon more
Hugh Casey (mod), Suzanne Rosin, Rock Robertson
John Ashmead (mod)
Seth Goldstein (mod)
The challenges of getting humans to the Moon were formidable, but small compared to those of longer voyages such as to Mars. What are the physical, psychological and technical challenges to be overcome before human travel throughout the solar system can become a reality? What potential solutions are being explored today? What is on the horizon?
Frank O'Brien (mod), Mark Wolverton, Earl Bennett, Tobias Cabral
Sure, Harry Potter is an obvious answer. But why children's fantasy as opposed to children's science fiction?
Josepha Sherman (mod), Alan Beck, Victoria McManus, Christine Norris, Danielle Ackley-McPhail
Who blew up the first planet before breakfast? Exploding planets, clashing fleets of spaceships, glaring alien menaces, super-weapons. What exactly do we mean by space opera anyway?
Nathan Lilly (mod), Gardner Dozois, John Wright, Drew White
Science Fiction stories often depend upon phenomena that seriously bend, if not actually break the laws of physics as we know them. Teleportation, time travel, invisibility, FTL and other SF staples have long been considered impossible yet acceptable plot devices. But the pace of scientific and technological progress is so rapid today that less and less seems "impossible". Subatomic particles have been "teleported" and serious research is being done on materials that can bend light around an object, producing invisibility. Given our current understanding of physics what is the possibility that any of these far-out ideas could become reality?
Jay Wile (mod), John Ashmead, Rock Robertson, Mark Wolverton, Catherine Asaro
Has the time travel story been superseded by its progeny, the alternate history, and the paranormal romance?
Michael Swanwick (mod), Judith Moffett, Alexis Gilliland
If SETI ever picks up an unmistakably intelligent alien signal, the next step is how to communicate with them. What basic symbols and concepts can we assume could be understood by any type of intelligence? How would we build up a vocabulary? Could there be beings with minds so different that communication would be impossible?
Karl Kofoed (mod), Judith Berman, Lawrence M. Schoen, Mark Wolverton, Jed Shumsky
David Langford gave an excellent speech about violence in Space Opera. Planet-shattering death-rays, sun-destroying missiles and guns; big, big guns. What are some of the best and biggest moments of senseless violence in science fiction? What are the moral implications?
Camille Bacon-Smith (mod), Gregory Frost, Tom Purdom, Ruth Lampi
Why Writers transcend critical disapproval
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Michael Swanwick, Ann Tonsor Zeddies
Discussion of the new spinoff from Dr. Who
Lisa Sullivan (mod), Meredith Schwartz, Dina Leacock, Wayne Zimmerman, Jed Shumsky
Does anyone really believe the old science fictional vision of mankind's destiny in space anymore? You know , Planets colonized as the Americas were, galactic empires, the old Heinlein/Poul Anderson/L5 Society future. Yet the "future" has arrived. Exo-planets are being found by the hundreds but even some hard Science Fiction writers are turning their backs on the far future and outer space. Is the field imploding or undergoing a metamorphosis?
Ann Tonsor Zeddies (mod), Judith Berman, James Daniel Ross, Meredith Schwartz
Editors talk about their publications, tell writers what they want and don't want to see, share slush pile tales and other delights.
Gordon Linzner (mod), Marvin Kaye, Gordon Van Gelder, Diane Weinstein, Hildy Silverman
Has the onslaught of fantasy movies and tv shows help bring your artwork to a bigger market? Maybe we should we all thank the success of Harry Potter, and LOTR for making this art genre more acceptable as household decor. Do artists see a time were people who purchase their art can display it proudly in their homes, or will it still be removed from sight when the mother in law visits or the PTA comes for a meeting.
Joseph L. Bellofatto, Jr. (mod), Alan Beck, Sue Dawe, Heidi Hooper
The term is thrown around quite a bit. We hear about literary science fiction, literary fantasy and even literary programming. Despite all the value judgments, what do we mean by this term?
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Judith Berman, Ann Tonsor Zeddies, Michael J. Walsh, Judith Moffett
So, after Philcon ends this year, THEN what? Well, there are plenty of fan related events that take place throughout the Greater Philadelphia area all year around! Come and find out what other great events, organizations, and resources you can enjoy as a Philly Phanatic!
Tony Finan (mod), Matt Black, Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Rock Robertson, Ruth Lampi, Joanna Corcoran
The hard science fiction novel seems to be losing market share to fantasy, series novels and just about everything else. Is the answer just better science fiction or is the problem more profound?
Barbara Purdom (mod), Nikki Cohen, Robert Kauffmann, Gayle Surrette
Rock Robertson (mod), Eric Flint, Kevin Roche, Andrew Trembley, Charlene Taylor D'Alessio
Rock Robertson (mod)
Does it attract young readers to the written word, or wean them away from it?
Andrew C. Murphy (mod), JJ Brannon, Ray Ridenour, J. Andrew World
On the heels of our wild "Ninja, Pirate, Monkey, Robot!" panel last year comes this THRILLING SEQUEL! SEE four panelists get assigned a random subject, then have to tell us why it's so much cooler than the others! THRILL as they lay into each other, and good-natured barbs rapidly become savage insults to one's parentage! LAUGH as the jokes fly fast and furious! CHEER as YOU, THE AUDIENCE chooses who wins! "NINJA, PIRATE, MAD SCIENTIST, ROBOT!"... coming soon to a panel near YOU!
Hugh Casey (mod), Phil Kahn, Onezumi, Glenn Hauman, Sally-Rouge Pax, Jo Blu Pax
They saved the cheerleader, and saved the world. Now what's going to happen in the further adventures of Hiro, Niki, Sylar, Claire, and the other super-powered characters in one of prime-time's most popular dramas? What new characters will be introduced? And can the series maintain it's quality into it's second season? We'll discuss what's going on with our favorite HEROES! YATTA!
Camille Anthony (mod), Hildy Silverman, Tony Ruggiero
A look at the sub-genre of Science Fiction humor in literature and media. Is it mostly harmless?
Ray Ridenour (mod), Nikki Cohen, Lee Gilliland, Meredith Schwartz, Alexis Gilliland
They're the fights you've always wanted to see... Batman vs. Superman! Kirk vs. Picard! Bambi vs. Godzilla! Well, now YOU can give our panelists the matchups that YOU want to see, and they not only have to tell you who wins, but also WHY! Come for the fight, and stay for the fun! And remember... we do NOT talk about Versus! Sci-Fi Fight Club!
Tony Finan (mod), Esther M. Friesner, Hildy Silverman
Authors explain why they decided to start blogging.
David Louis Edelman (mod), Jay Smith, Alyce Wilson, Tony Ruggiero, Michael Swanwick
Usually, when the movie differs from the book it is because of sheer ineptitude or a lack of imagination. Sometimes in the case of Starship Troopers, the movie is a critique of the book. Is this ever a positive thing?
Mike Pederson (mod), Lee Gilliland, Kimberly Ann Kindya, James Daniel Ross
Consider John W, Campbell's The Thing and Van Vogt's Black Destroyer. There used to be monsters in science fiction magazines. Where are they now?
Dina Leacock (mod), Deb Ruh Lieven, Roman Ranieri, Richard Stout
The new version of DR. WHO, and it's spinoff show TORCHWOOD, have brought a whole new audience to BBC sci-fi! What makes these shows so popular, and what other British SF TV should you know about?
Lisa Sullivan (mod), Tony Finan, Victoria McManus, Mike Pederson
There are numerous zombie fiction anthologies in the works, several new zombie movies being released, scores of new websites devoted to the love of zombies and even a television series. Why did the genre suddenly take on new life? Are zombies the new vampires? Is all zombie fiction now set in the world of George Romero?
Gayle Surrette (mod), Mark E. Rogers, Jennifer Williams, Jonathan Maberry, Gary Frank
Bud Sparhawk (mod)
53 years later they are still talking about it. Why is Tom Godwin's story so essential to Science Fiction?
John G. Hemry (mod), Tom Purdom, Kathy Sands, Andre Lieven
What are the best ways that we can help so-so writers become better writers? Writer’s workshops, on line forums and well placed rejection slips?
Michael Swanwick (mod), Marvin Kaye, Tom Purdom, James Patrick Kelly, Gordon Van Gelder
The significance of Robert Heinlein's work 100 years after his birth.
Michael F. Flynn (mod), Gordon Van Gelder, Christopher Weuve, Eric Kotani
If science fiction is about broadening perspectives and the future of all of humanity, does it inherently transcend ethnicity?
Judith Berman (mod), Tom Purdom, Ellen Asher
From Dale Arden and Wilma Deering, to Buffy, Niki Sanders, and Kara Thrace, Sci-Fi has been full of women who kick butt and don’t bother taking names. Why do so many of these ladies show up in SF Film and TV?
Ann Tonsor Zeddies (mod), Camille Bacon-Smith, Deb Ruh Lieven, James Daniel Ross, Meredith Schwartz
In 2004, 33 prominent international scientists signed a statement claiming that the Big Bang's almost complete domination of cosmology is the result of funding decisions rather than good science and that the Big Bang theory has some fundamental scientific failings. Hear about data that opponents of the Big Bang say undermines the theory (such as Lithium and Helium abundances, density of normal matter in the universe and Galaxy distribution)and what rival theories have been proposed, such as Steady State and Plasma Cosmology.
Michael F. Flynn (mod), Paul Halpern, Eric Kotani
What motivates military fiction writers during these troubled times? Do you put your own personal politics in or scrupulously try to present a balanced point - of - view? Do readers reject what they perceive as hitting "too close to home?
Mark L. Van Name (mod), Christopher Weuve, Mike McPhail, Daniel Grotta
From horrific monstrosities to the romantic and cuddly. What gives?
Trina E. King (mod), L.A. Banks, Stephanie Burke, Darrell Schweitzer, Jonathan Maberry
It's over. Is everybody happy?
Stephanie Burke (mod), Christine Norris, Kathy Sands, Michael A. Ventrella, Barbara Purdom
An annual tradition. Panelists compete against the audience in our take off of the Jeopardy game.
Oz Fontecchio (mod), Hildy Silverman, Gardner Dozois, Chris Logan Edwards, Roman Ranieri, Lawrence M. Schoen
Oz Fontecchio (mod), Hildy Silverman, Gardner Dozois, Chris Logan Edwards, Roman Ranieri, Lawrence M. Schoen
Is it the worst genre story ever written? See if you can do a live reading without cracking up.
Oz Fontecchio (mod), David M. Axler, Marvin Kaye, Gregory Frost, Ann Tonsor Zeddies
From THE FLINTSTONES, THE JETSONS, and JOHNNY QUEST in the ‘60’s, all the way through SAMURAI JACK and DEXTER’S LABORATORY in the ‘00’s, Hanna-Barbera Studios was one of the most prolific creators of SF related TV shows. While the quality of some of their offerings can be debated, there are many of us who have fond memories of many of their shows.
Orenthal Hawkins (mod), Karen Sullivan, Lisa Sullivan, Lee Gilliland, Ariel Cinii
From Dr. Van Helsing to the Ghost Busters.
L. Jagi Lamplighter (mod), C.J. Henderson, Richard Stout, Gregory Frost, Patrick Thomas
The revolt of the Web Scabs, and Pixel-Stained Technopeasants!
Mike Pederson (mod), James Patrick Kelly, Gordon Van Gelder, Eric Flint
From John Campbell to Joseph Campbell, the idea of science fiction as the new myth of the modern age.
John G. Hemry (mod), Glenn Hauman, Mitchell Gordon, Mark L. Van Name, Christopher Weuve
Imagine extraterrestrials who are more than guys with a facial problem and an attitude. How to create aliens that are not slightly modified human beings but a product of a different evolution.
Walter Hunt (mod), Karl Kofoed, Judith Berman, John Wright
Robert Heinlein was far ahead of his time in some areas but then there was Farnham’s Freehold. Why Heinlein is still both an enlightening and controversial figure in Science Fiction.
Michael F. Flynn (mod), Christopher Weuve, Ann Tonsor Zeddies
Some of their work, like THE SORCERER, has overtly fantastic content, but isn't ALL of it in a sense from another universe? How much have Gilbert and Sullivan influenced subsequent fantasy and science fiction in various media?
Michael F. Flynn (mod), Marvin Kaye, Ellen Asher, Kathy Sands, Gary McGath
He’s done everything from movies, to television, to writing comic books. Next year he’s going to direct an episode of HEROES: ORIGINS, and he wrote the screenplay for the upcoming GREEN HORNET film. He even named his daughter after a villain from Batman. He’s one of us, and he’s a king of all media! Come talk, and find out more, about the works of Kevin Smith.
Jay Smith (mod), J. Andrew World, Phil Kahn, Hildy Silverman
Many fans have blogs, and so do many authors, artists, and others who make their living from SF and Fantasy. So why do these people have blogs, what do they give to us on them, and what do they get in return?
Hugh Casey (mod), Glenn Hauman, Orenthal Hawkins, Nathan Lilly, Jay Smith, KT Pinto
A continuation of the Artist Guest of Honor's slide show focusing on her more recent work
Sue Dawe (mod)
Web resources available and how to find them without paying for them.
Nathan Lilly (mod), D.E. Christman, Jonathan Maberry, David Louis Edelman
Are movie novelizations, novels based on television shows and games displacing original Science Fiction?
Victoria McManus (mod), Kathy Sands, Stephanie Burke, Deb Ruh Lieven
Since the earliest days of the audio drama, when shows like "The Shadow" and "Flash Gordon" were among the most popular shows on radio, to today's books-on-tape, the audio drama and SF have long been entwined. In fact, the most famous radio play in history was the broadcast of a little story called "The War Of The Worlds"! Come and explore the exciting world of this amazing genre!
Orenthal Hawkins (mod), JJ Brannon, Jay Smith, Ray Ridenour
Where, oh where, did it all go wrong? Or did it go wrong? Has the SciFi Channel lived up to it’s promise, or has it been a failure from a fan’s perspective? We’ll discuss what we think the SciFi channel IS, and maybe what it COULD be.
Tony Finan (mod), Steve Vertlieb, Wayne Zimmerman, Glenn Hauman, Kimberly Ann Kindya
The current state of fusion research, and the different methods being explored. Recently, there have been claims that fusion has been achieved using sonoluminescense. And what about cold fusion? How far off is a working fusion reactor?
John Ashmead (mod), Frank O'Brien, Jay Wile
It spanned ten full seasons, two networks, and a bunch of cast changes. It spawned a second series (STARGATE: ATLANTIS), with another soon to come (STARGATE UNIVERSE, and two DVD movies on the way. Come take a look back on the most wildly successful SF TV franchise since STAR TREK.
Andre Lieven (mod), Ariel Cinii, Christopher Weuve
What does The Children of Hurin add to our appreciation of Tolkien and our understanding of The Lord of the Rings Universe?
Marilyn Brahen (mod), Daniel Grotta, Mark E. Rogers, Robert Kauffmann
The last season of BATTLESTAR GALACTICA will start soon, and it will be the beginning of the end for one of the most critically acclaimed science-fiction TV shows ever. What will happen to the surviving Colonial fleet? What about the Cylons? And will they finally find Earth?
Mike Pederson (mod), Andre Lieven, Christopher Weuve
Or as one of our cynical colleagues said, "For good or ill? "
Tom Purdom (mod), Michael Swanwick, Gordon Van Gelder, Ann Tonsor Zeddies
Yesterday's visions of what tomorrow would be like. Remember when the future involved a helicopter in every garage, robot servants and cities on Mars by 1990? Looking back on the futures we have outlived.
John Ashmead (mod), JJ Brannon, Ann Tonsor Zeddies
Hosted by Dr. Lawrence M. Schoen, one of the world's foremost experts on Klingon language and culture. Come enjoy this facinating lecture on the basics of the Klingon language, which is one of the most complex and colorful "artificial" languages ever created, from the complex and colorful Dr. Schoen!
Lawrence M. Schoen (mod)
A great writer, why his work continues to matter.
Chris Logan Edwards (mod), Diane Weinstein, Gordon Van Gelder, Judith Moffett, Patricia M. Cryan
One of the larger virtual worlds, Second Life, has experienced substantial user discontent and technical problems while its user base has grown. Panelists discuss the history and the possible future of Second Life
Timothy Binder (mod), Tony Finan, Surreal, Ef Deal, Timothy Allen, Bud Sparhawk
Barbara Gordon (Batgirl) was shot and paralyzed. Gwen Stacy was accidentally killed when her boyfriend, Spiderman, tried to save her. Wonder Woman used to get tied up with her own lasso all the time. And Green Lantern's girlfriend was killed by a maniac and stuffed in a refrigerator! Is it just good storytelling, or do comic creators have it in for their female characters? And are there any women in comics who AREN'T getting the short end of the stick?
Onezumi (mod), Glenn Hauman, J. Andrew World, Ruth Lampi, L. Jagi Lamplighter
Authors tell how they did it.
David Louis Edelman (mod), Linda Bushyager, L. Jagi Lamplighter, Jonathan Maberry, Joshua Bilmes
The most superficial alternate history is a kind of alternate war game in which someone fell off a horse at the wrong time, lost a battle and changed history. But the great works of alternate history have a much greater thematic resonance. What are alternate histories actually about?
Eric Kotani (mod), Michael F. Flynn, Andre Lieven
The nanotechnology revolution is no longer "coming" -- it is here. Nanomaterials are being manufactured and are poised to revolutionize fields from electronics to materials science to medicine. Panelists will discuss current nanotechnology, its applications and what we can expect to see in the near future, as well as longer term possibilities, and concerns about potential problems.
Seth Goldstein (mod), David Louis Edelman, Kevin Roche
Comic books and SF have been entwined for decades, since before the days when Flash Gordon and Buck Rogers were printed in the newspapers! We'll explore the relationship between comic-books and SF & Fantasy, including looks at such crossovers as The Legion of Super Heroes, Neil Gaiman's SANDMAN (the only comic book to win the World Fantasy Award), and even a certain strange visitor from another planet.
J. Andrew World (mod), Glenn Hauman, JJ Brannon, Rock Robertson, Andrew C. Murphy
Posthumously, Philip K. Dick became a one-man factory for Hollywood projects, with his fiction reaching the screen nine times. Blade-Runner was a flop that became a critical success. Other films include: Steven Spielberg's "Minority Report," Paul Verhoeven's "Total Recall," John Woo's "Paycheck" and, earlier this year, the Nicolas Cage vehicle "Next." Did Hollywood do right by him? How do the movies compare to his fiction?
Next Christmas, Paramount Pictures will introduce a NEW movie version of the original STAR TREK series, with all of the major characters recast (including Zachary Quinto from HEROES as Mr. Spock), and directed by J.J. Abrams (ALIAS, LOST, MI:3). So, is this a remake, a reboot, or something else entirely? What do we know about the plot? And is this even a good idea? Our panel will go over ALL the latest news and rumors to help you sort it all out.
Hugh Casey (mod), Andre Lieven, Camille Anthony, Ariel Cinii, Richard Stout, Steve Vertlieb
For people (of all ages) who are considering a career in the sciences. What does it take to get a job in science, what kind of degree is required for what kind of work, how plentiful are positions in the different fields, what about academic vs. government vs. private industry jobs? Panelists will also discuss what it is like to be a scientist -- what a typical day is like, competition for money and resources, pressure to publish, teaching requirements, supervising graduate students -- all the pros and cons of a career in science.
Kevin Roche (mod), Dr. H. Paul Shuch, Jed Shumsky
Presentation by our costume Guests of Honor
Kevin Roche (mod), Andrew Trembley
Slide-Show Presentation of our Artist Guest of Honor. She will present her later work on Sunday at 11 am
Sue Dawe (mod)
Main Presentation of Philcon's Principal Speaker
Eric Flint (mod)
Voltaire (mod)
(WARNING: Panel may include discussion of mature topics. Parents should exercise discretion in allowing minors to attend.) With the advent of the internet, fanfiction ("fanfic") has exploded. But is fanfic also copyright infringement? Is it theft of "Intellectual Property"? Or is it just a harmless way for fans to share in their favorite works? How do laws that govern pornography and obscenity also apply to fanfic?
Meredith Schwartz (mod), Stephanie Burke, James Daniel Ross, Kathy Sands, Jay Smith, Ann Tonsor Zeddies
A 6 week workshop for aspiring professional fantastic authors run by professional authors. Previous attendees share their experiences.
James Patrick Kelly (mod), Caleb Wilson, Drew White
Scientific research is an objective, unbiased search for truth, right? That's what it's supposed to be, but the reality is that science has never been under greater pressure from outside influences since the church censored Galileo. . What can and must be done preserve free inquiry?
Dr. H. Paul Shuch (mod), Jay Wile, Mark Wolverton
Some have said that Space Opera was influenced by horse opera for good or ill. Where and how did themes from Westerns insinuate themselves into science fiction?
Nathan Lilly (mod), Eric Flint, C.J. Henderson, James Daniel Ross, Gayle Surrette
(MATURE SUBJECT MATTER! No one under 18 admitted!) Well, we know it happens... otherwise, where would we get little baby fans? But if you're someone who isn't familiar with the whys and wherefores of "hooking up", how do you go about finding the perfect (fannish) mate? We'll take a look at the mating habits of the wild fen, with tounge planted firmly in cheek.
KT Pinto (mod), Andre Lieven, Rock Robertson, Lee Gilliland, Joanna Corcoran, Sally-Rouge Pax
J.G. Ballard and Salvador Dali. Come up with other examples.
Karl Kofoed (mod), Alan Beck, Sue Dawe, Diane Weinstein, Drew White
Why not republics, democracies and confederacies? Why do we assume that the future government is going to be some autocracy from the past? Is the Galactic Empire more romantic or just easier to write?
Walter Hunt (mod), James Daniel Ross, Christopher Weuve, John Wright, Alexis Gilliland
Getting the word out, just short of tatooing your own forehead. ( What's wrong with tatooing your own forehead?)
Hildy Silverman (mod), David Louis Edelman, Josepha Sherman, Jonathan Maberry, Nathan Lilly
Professional venues, or just extensions of fan-zines? How do they differ from print magazines? What is the impact that online magazines are having on the field? Are Online Magazines the future of genre fiction?
Nathan Lilly (mod), Tony Ruggiero, Gary Frank, Eric Flint, Joshua Bilmes
Do certain topics in science fiction just go out of style permanently? Or can they be revived and repackaged later? For example, can a psionics novel be written as Science Fiction today?
Gregory Frost (mod), James Patrick Kelly, Camille Bacon-Smith, Glenn Hauman, Michael J. Walsh
It has it all: pinups, zombies, Samurai Cat, the Grand Canyon, and more pinups!
Mark E. Rogers (mod)
Do you have to join the club? SFWA, HWA, GSHW among others. What are these organizations and why are they worth joining? Members speak to the pros (and cons) of these organizations, tell the membership requirements, and promote what each can do for their members.
Gordon Van Gelder (mod), Tom Purdom, Sally Wiener Grotta, Gary Frank
So, you see a nice looking male/female at a con, or bookstore, or comic shop, and you want to say hello, and maybe ask them out. But you don't know HOW! Well, our panel of experts (all of whom have SUCCESSFULLY DATED, and lived to tell the tale!) will share their secret knowledge with you! Bring a good sense of humor, and an ability to poke fun at your own fannish foibles!
KT Pinto (mod), Onezumi, Sally-Rouge Pax, Surreal, Rock Robertson, Matt Black
Who is currently doing the best Lovecraft mythos stories today? How do they continue to evolve? (And do they reproduce by fission?)
John Ashmead (mod), C.J. Henderson, Marvin Kaye, Darrell Schweitzer, Steve Vertlieb
What have we learned from the writers who tried to warn us?
Walter Hunt (mod), Gregory Frost, James Patrick Kelly
(WARNING: MATURE SUBJECT MATTER! No one under age 18 will be admitted!) Science fiction seems to attract many people who are involved with alternate sexual lifestyles. Or is it the other way around? Come and discuss the interaction.
David M. Axler (mod), Camille Anthony, Meredith Schwartz, Jennifer Williams, Sally-Rouge Pax, Jo Blu Pax
Balonium is that substance or effect that suspends the laws of the universe as the plot requires, producing cheap interstellar travel, time travel, egg-laying alien princesses and the inexplicably powered sandworms of Dune. Yet we know all of these things are impossible. Can science fiction be written about things that are actually possible without using liberal doses of Balonium?
Daniel Burnet (mod), JJ Brannon, Ariel Cinii, John Wright
How does science fiction written by minorities differ?
Linda Addison (mod), L.A. Banks, Rock Robertson, Stephanie Burke
How to make your characters living people as opposed to puppets jerked around by the plot?
Judith Berman (mod), Lawrence M. Schoen, Gregory Frost, Judith Moffett
"Firefly" and "Serenity" are probably the most current examples, but the SF story as western has been around for decades. From "Outland" and "Battle Beyond The Stars", to "Cowboy Bebop" and "The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers", the tales of the Old West have strongly influenced sci-fi. Come find out about the past, and the future, of the Space Western
Nathan Lilly (mod), Matt Black, Meredith Schwartz
History can be changed by alternate ideas as well as alternate events. A change in an idea about science , religion or art can be just as pivotal as the outcome of a battle.
Michael F. Flynn (mod), Gregory Frost, Glenn Hauman, Eric Flint
What are artists painting these days? What are editors looking for when they want a book cover, role playing cards, SF/Fantasy games, etc. Are their any motifs that never go out of style, or is the only constant in the art world that there is constant change in art lovers and editors tastes.
Ray Ridenour (mod), J. Andrew World, L. W. (Lynn) Perkins
The blending of art and technology is more and more commonplace. Can artists even work without their computers anymore? Has the digital world overtaken the traditional paintbrush. Artists discuss the latest trends of these two world colliding into each other, and what techniques they use now to create their art.
Robert Kauffmann (mod), D.E. Christman, Onezumi, Ray Ridenour
Philip K. Dick: Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Dick, but Were Afraid to Ask
Diane Weinstein (mod), Michael Swanwick, David Louis Edelman, Rock Robertson, Jay Wile
How are women portrayed in our culture through art. Is it accurate, and what message are artists trying to send to us.
J. Andrew World (mod), Helen Fleischer, Heidi Hooper
Webcomics are comics that are posted online rather than published in book form. Some are humorous strips, similar to the "funnies" in the newspaper. Some of them tell intricate, epic stories. Some are great... and some are just awful. What makes a good webcomic, and what makes a good one GREAT? And which ones should YOU be reading?
Rob Balder (mod), Harknell, Onezumi, Glenn Hauman, Phil Kahn, Sally-Rouge Pax
The new sophisticated modern space opera began in the 1980s with writers like Iain Banks. Where is this leading?
Tom Purdom (mod), Gardner Dozois, L. Jagi Lamplighter, Catherine Asaro
Sure, dogs are man's best friend, but you could never tell that from the SF/Fantasy world of books and art. Why are cats with wings so popular, but our faithful canine companions are left out of the artshow. Who is behind this? Is it a cat conspiracy?
Rebecca Marcus (mod), Rock Robertson, L. W. (Lynn) Perkins, Helen Fleischer
Discuss the differences between approaching art as a hobby versus art as a professional career.
Karl Kofoed (mod), Joseph L. Bellofatto, Jr., Charlene Taylor D'Alessio, Heidi Hooper
Science fiction writers predict what the USA will be like 200 years in the future.
Ann Tonsor Zeddies (mod), Daniel Grotta, Eric Kotani
Readers discuss what attracts them to books -- pretty cover art, the author's name, the back cover blurb, etc. Is there any sort of magic combination of elements that authors and their publicists can utilize, or is it all too random?
L. W. (Lynn) Perkins (mod), Gordon Linzner, Alan Beck, Karl Kofoed, Michael J. Walsh
Copyright, Creative Commons, Fair Use and the Public Domain.
Harknell (mod), Rob Balder, Sally Wiener Grotta, Joshua Bilmes
Sometimes the author seems, as Lovecraft was said to be, " his one most fantastic creature" . Our sense of who the author was completely colors our view of his work. Think of Lovecraft, Robert E. Howard, Franz Kafka, or Philip K. Dick. Can an author create his legend intentionally, an artificial persona, or is that just plain phoney? Can the author's life be separated from the text? Should it be?
L. Jagi Lamplighter (mod), James Daniel Ross, Brian Siano, Drew White
Quick readings by member of Broad Universe
Can science fiction imagine a genuinely new form of government?
Karl Kofoed (mod), Christopher Weuve, Bud Sparhawk, Mitchell Gordon, Eric Flint
In the past, people all “knew” things we no longer consider to be true. The world is no longer flat with a starry dome over it. Will we see similar radical changes in perspective in the future?
Ellen Asher (mod), David M. Axler, Earl Bennett, Gary Frank
What happens when transnational virtual worlds are forced to cope with the laws of multiple nations and states.
Gary Feldbaum (mod), Timothy Binder, Francis X. Taney Jr., Timothy Allen
Do your children love watching "Heroes" with you, or would they rather watch "American Idol"? Do they get excited when you talk about going to a con, or just roll their eyes and say, "What-EVAR!" How do you deal with both fandom AND parenthood?
Hildy Silverman (mod), Nathan Lilly, Jay Smith
Well, maybe not quite that dramatic, but good costumers can make something quite dramatic out of everyday items. Come share your secrets, or just show off what you have made be it costume, jewlery, or anything else crafty that you are proud of. You never know where a new idea could come from. Don't worry: Martha Stewart will not be in attendance.
Vicki Warren (mod), Andrew Trembley, Joanna Corcoran
Danielle Ackley-McPhail (mod)
Michael F. Flynn (mod)
Tom Purdom (mod)
Catherine Asaro (mod)
How do you explain to your boss that you're taking time off of work to go to a con? Or discuss with your future in-laws the fact that you both want a Star Trek wedding? We'll talk about different ways that fans have found to balance their real and fannish lives.
Tobias Cabral (mod), Matt Black, Jay Smith, Trina E. King
Michael Swanwick (mod)
Walter Hunt (mod)
Bud Sparhawk (mod)
Judith Berman (mod)
Gregory Frost (mod)
Lawrence M. Schoen (mod)
Camille Bacon-Smith (mod)
L.A. Banks (mod)
James Patrick Kelly (mod)
John G. Hemry (mod)
A fun and easy-to-learn card game with elements of roleplaying.
Phillip Thorne (mod), Ruth Lampi
Phillip Thorne (mod), Walter Hunt
What makes a scary monster? What colors are good, and how can you get those teeth and claws just right?
Charlene Taylor D'Alessio (mod)
Engage in minifig squad combat with QuikWars, or other LEGO-based activities.
Phillip Thorne (mod)
Explore a Wacky Toon Amusement Park, a free-form adventure. Pregenerated characters will be provided for less experienced players.
Owen Hutchins (mod)
Robots can look like anything, but how can you make them look good once you have a basic idea? How do you get an idea?
J. Andrew World (mod)
Christine Norris (mod), Deb Ruh Lieven
Chain ideas and events together, and see which way the story turns. Speak, write or draw.
Christine Norris (mod), Walter Hunt
Phillip Thorne (mod), Kathy Sands
Engage in minifig squad combat with QuikWars, or other LEGO-based activities.
Phillip Thorne (mod)
Continue to explore a Wacky Toon Amusement Park, a free-form adventure. Pregenerated characters will be provided for less experienced players.
Owen Hutchins (mod)
Follow along to fold paper into fantastical creatures and movable toys.
Faye E. Goldman (mod), Kevin Roche
What is behind this "craze," and why are even people of non Celtic decent in on it. Do people find it romantic, or just fun to be different. Gentlemen wear your kilts to the panel.
Rebecca Marcus (mod), Hugh Casey, Nikki Cohen, Owen Hutchins, Kevin Roche, Andrew Trembley
We've seen the best, like SPIDERMAN or BATMAN BEGINS. We've seen the worst, like THE PUNISHER, or BATMAN & ROBIN. But what makes a great comic-book movie or TV series? What changes should and should not be made to adapt a classic comic-book to the screen?
Glenn Hauman (mod), Mike Pederson, J. Andrew World, Jennifer Williams, Kimberly Ann Kindya, Daniel Burnet
How did it differ from Flash Gordon, for example?
Richard Stout (mod), Lee Gilliland, J. Andrew World
There was FOREVER KNIGHT, and ANGEL. This season, we get MOONLIGHT in the US, and BLOOD TIES in Canada. What is it with vampires constantly becoming detectives? Aren’t they qualified for any OTHER jobs?
Jennifer Williams (mod), KT Pinto, Tony Ruggiero, L.A. Banks, Meredith Schwartz, Jed Shumsky
What are the elements that make a good costume, and how you do go about putting it all together. How do you get the little details right?
Robert Himmelsbach (mod), Kimberly Ann Kindya, Kevin Roche, Nikki Cohen
Is Silver the new Black? Join us for an examination of how SF tv shows/movies/books presents what to wear in the future.
Robert Himmelsbach (mod), Lee Gilliland, Andrew Trembley
Think steampunk, THE DIFFERENCE ENGINE, THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN, etc. What is the appeal of the late 19th century and its technology as a setting or trope for science fiction? Is it the big machines, the gentlemen adventurers with impeccable taste and manners, the sense of (now lost) horizons looming before one? Or is it just an evasion of writing about the future as it might actually be? What is the reason for a contemporary writer setting a story in THIS particular alternative version of the past?
Victoria McManus (mod), Stephanie Burke, Richard Stout, Brian Siano, Gayle Surrette
These days, it's possible to shoot, edit, and distribute your short movie yourself! And you have affordable tools at your disposal that professional production and effects houses would have KILLED for just a few years ago! Find out from out panel of professionals some of the things you'll want to know about becoming a mini-mogul!
Hugh Casey (mod), Jay Smith, Matt Black, Phil Kahn, Christopher Stout
A new publishing category that may even be larger than science fiction in total sales. What is it? Is it genuinely new?
Camille Bacon-Smith (mod), Camille Anthony, Stephanie Burke, Victoria McManus
By now, nearly 20 of his non - science fiction novels have appeared, only one of which was published in his life time. Imagine an alternate career in which all of these books were published in his lifetime. What would it have meant to science fiction and to American literature?
Rock Robertson (mod), James Daniel Ross
No publisher buys one book anymore. They invest in the upward trajectory of a writer's career. What special discipline does a writer need, beyond mere talent, to succeed in science fiction?
Jonathan Maberry (mod), James Patrick Kelly, Walter Hunt, Joshua Bilmes
SF has often dealt with strong religious themes. Everything from DUNE to A CANTICLE FOR LEIBOWITZ to "The Force" echos religious and spiritual issues that mankind has dealt with for thousands of years. And fans themselves come from all faiths and creeds. So how do fans of faith deal with fantastic works that may fly in the face of those beliefs?
Ray Ridenour (mod), Lee Gilliland, James Daniel Ross, John Wright
For the past season, most of LOST was taken up with the stories of the "Others", with not as much attention paid to the original "Lostaways". Then, in the season finale, the show's creators turned the entire storyline on it's head. Will this cause LOST to become exciting again, or has LOST lost it's way?
Mike Pederson (mod), Hildy Silverman, Wayne Zimmerman
They went thataway! The aftermath of literary movements. Do they inevitably get imitated into cliche? Is this a natural process? Should the writers just move on?
James Patrick Kelly (mod), Gardner Dozois, James Daniel Ross
Do we actually read him or just watch movies based on him? What did he actually write and is it still valid?
Josepha Sherman (mod), Sue Dawe, Lee Gilliland, Walter Hunt
Come meet up with the local chapter of the Pennsylvania Browncoats! Put on your fanciest duds and have fun with your fellow Firefly and Serenity fans! Just leave "Vera" at home!
Matt Black (mod), Nathan Lilly, Suzanne Rosin
A meet and greet for fans, guests, and pros who participate in and use LiveJournal! Meet the people behind the usernames!
Hugh Casey (mod), Jennifer Williams, Nikki Cohen, D.E. Christman
With the discovery of antibiotics and the development of vaccines in the early 20th century, the terrible threat of infectious disease that once claimed so many lives was thought to be ended, at least in the developed world. But we must now face the fact that with the rise of new problems such as emerging viral diseases and drug resistant bacteria, the growing numbers of people living without access to medicine and the increasing ease with which disease can spread globally, infectious disease has returned as a serious threat. Will the global pandemics we have been warned of occur? What should governments, hospitals, and individuals due to prepare for the possibility? What are the roles of organizations like the WHO and the CDC? How can we fight drug-resistance? What emerging diseases are the international medical community tracking and what new threats should we be aware of?
JJ Brannon (mod), Rock Robertson, Jed Shumsky
From The Lord of the Rings, The Wheel of Time and The Song of Ice and Fire to Firefly, Star Trek and Star Wars, there are probably hundreds of RPGs based on licensed properties. There are plenty of ways to approach licensed games. Some GMs may have their players playing in the setting with little interaction with canon storylines while others may allow players free reign to change the chain of a story's events. What are the challenges and pitfalls of running games based on licensed properties? Join our panelists in a discussion of these topics and more.
Joanna Corcoran (mod), Deb Ruh Lieven, Michael Ryan, Alex Padilla, Michael S. Miller
Join our panelists in a discussion about character creation in fiction and role-playing. They will be looking at the similarities and differences in the process within the different genres.
Alex Padilla (mod), Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Eric Avedissian, Daniel Burnet, John Wright
Games teach children many valuable life skills such as cooperation and teamwork, responsibility, honesty, understanding and accepting both winning and losing. Join our panelists as they discus what board games and role-playing games they've played with children and what impact they've seen as a result. Learn about new games that are good for kids and some older games you may not heard of before.
Michael Ryan (mod), L. Jagi Lamplighter, Brennan Taylor
Join our panelists in a discussion of world building from different perspectives: that of fiction and role-playing games.
Alex Padilla (mod), Eric Avedissian, Michael Ryan, Daniel Burnet, Mike McPhail
Join our panelists as they discus getting games published whether independently or through larger companies.
Michael S. Miller (mod), Eric Avedissian, Brennan Taylor, Tony DiGerolamo, Daniel Burnet
Manuscripts critiqued by professional writers.
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Dina Leacock, Roman Ranieri
Manuscripts critiqued by professional writers.
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Dina Leacock, Roman Ranieri
For most of us, science fiction, fantasy, and horror are nothing but a pleasant escape from the everyday. But for some of us, SF is much, much more... for some, it becomes a lifeline that they can hold onto during difficult times, or a way to find an emotional release. Come and hear people talk about how SF saved themselves or others.
Rob Balder (mod), Tobias Cabral, Sue Dawe, Jay Smith, Hugh Casey
Our panel will discuss the myriad of gaming podcasts available on the web.
Don Corcoran (mod), Brennan Taylor, Mel White
You go to cons all the time! You enjoy them! And you think "Hey, I can do this! After all, how hard can it be?" You have NO idea. Our panel of experienced con-runners will be more than happy to tell you what you need to know to get started (or maybe talk you OUT of it!)
Hugh Casey (mod), Barbara Purdom, Meredith Schwartz, Mike Pederson, Matt Black
Clubs, stores, game days, and more, blanket the Philadelphia area. Join our panelists as they discus local area gaming resources and give you ideas on finding gamers in other areas.
Don Corcoran (mod), Ruth Lampi, Michael Ryan
How do you communicate an entire movie in a single sheet of poster art? How do you sum up a book with just the cover? How does the artist approach the task of conveying what it's all about.
Mark E. Rogers (mod), Diane Weinstein, Alan Beck, Joseph L. Bellofatto, Jr.
He was one of the giants of the Golden Age. He wrote a lot more than Conan pastiches. Take our word (and those of our panelists) for it.
Darrell Schweitzer (mod), Michael F. Flynn, Tom Purdom, Alexis Gilliland
Pros in the field of YA discuss what it takes to appeal to young adult readers. Is anything off-limits - sex, violence, cursing? How much is gratuitous and how much is necessary to attract young readers?
Barbara Purdom (mod), Josepha Sherman, John Wright, Gregory Frost, Virginia G. McMorrow
Filking Is the music of science fiction fandom. Find out how fans express themselves through song.
Roberta Rogow (mod)
All the Good Old Stuff (Banned from Argo Alert)
What works, what doesn't; online vs. live gatherings and other workshop issues.
James Patrick Kelly (mod), Linda Addison, Dina Leacock, Marilyn Brahen
What is the difference between a language designed to be a background for fiction such as Lord of the Rings and one designed for everyday use such as Esperanto?
Ariel Cinii (mod), Marilyn Brahen, Stephanie Burke, Bud Sparhawk
Which comes first.
Ariel Cinii (mod), Rob Balder, Kathy Sands
Where is it? Where are the best sites? How to get into them.
Rob Balder (mod), Harold Stein
Gary McGath (mod), Ariel Cinii
Rob Balder (mod), Marilyn Brahen
Dr. H. Paul Shuch (mod)
Kathy Sands (mod), Dr. H. Paul Shuch
Dr. Paul Shuch was present in Moscow for the Sputnik 50 year jubilee. He has picture of the festivities to show.
Dr. H. Paul Shuch (mod)
Costuming Dos and Don't.
Kimberly Ann Kindya (mod), Vicki Warren, Ruth Lampi, Nikki Cohen
What is the difference and can you mix and match them
Roberta Rogow (mod), Marilyn Brahen
How to find them. How to run them.
Gary McGath (mod), Kathy Sands
A discussion and exploration of the phenomenon of anime, its influence on western science fiction/fantasy and its incorporation of our cultural nuances.
Robert Fenelon (mod), Brian Price, Joe Foering, Dave Wilson, III
Remember that show with that guy who did that thing? You know, with that... thing he had? Take a look at some of our fondest anime-induced memories. Who knows? You just might find a new favorite of your own.
Robert Fenelon (mod), Joe Foering, Dave Wilson, III, Matt Pyson, Brian Price
hat's new out there this year and what should go back to the drawing board...literally! Do we just love our old friends from the 1940s-1980s, or do we like the new stuff? And what exactly is a Scooby Snack? We will settle the question once and for all right here at Philcon.
Joe Foering (mod), Dave Wilson, III, Brian Price, 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 Price (mod), Joe Foering, Robert Fenelon
Many anime-related panels focus on the content and characters of anime. But what about the people who bring them to life and give them their unique voice? A candid look at the voice acting business, from cattle call, to audition, all the way to the recording booth. All this and more from the mouths of the professionals themselves.
Amy Howard-Wilson (mod)
The pain! Oh dear God, the pain!! How could you ever allow these shows to see the light of day?! We take no responsibility for any psychological damage done when we show (re: inflict upon) you some of the worst of the worst. And they say 'Cruel & Unusual Punishment' is illegal in this country!
Brian Price (mod), Joe Foering, Dave Wilson, III, Matt Pyson
We (or at least, most people) know Osamu Tezuka is the Godfather of Anime. But who influenced him? And who did he influence? Who started the giant robot craze? How did all those studios get formed? In other words, what DOES make anime tick? A no-holds-barred group discussion of the inception and (sometimes hilarious) evolution of anime and other bits of apocrypha. No question or topic is taboo.
Brian Price (mod), Joe Foering, Dave Wilson, III, Matt Pyson
You've watched the shows. You've seen the movies. But what happens behind the scenes? Why is Kimba white? How was Speed Racer produced? How did Gainax rise and nearly fall...repeatedly? Kick back and get an earful of the amusing anecdotes surrounding the inspiration, creation and production of some of our favorite animes.
Brian Price (mod), Joe Foering, Dave Wilson, III, Matt Pyson