Below you can find our announced 2019 programming schedule! You can see the main alphabetical listing here on our Programming Schedule page.
The below schedule is our final draft! Please email us at programming@whimsycon.org with any issues.
Last updated 12:54 AM, 2020-02-27.
These panels are sorted first by time, and then by room as seen left-to-right on our Programming Grids.
Stace Johnson Concert
Friday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Main Events
Stace Johnson (M)
Denver-based musician Stace Johnson Preforms before the opening ceremonies.
Opening Ceremonies
Friday, 5:00 PM-5:25 PM, Main Events
Leif Olsen (M), Julie Nakao, Kristin Dalleske, Maxwell Alexander Drake, Peri Charlifu, Unwoman
Chair Julie Nakao welcomes everyone and introduces this year’s Guests of Honor!
Welcome to the Art Track
Friday, 5:30 PM-5:55 PM, Art
Peri Charlifu (M)
All art track artists who can attend should be here.
Faerie Check-In ~Scavenger Hunt Begins
Friday, 5:30 PM-6:55 PM, Children’s Programing
Nissa LaFete (M), Tomas O’Dreams
Come join us and see all the magic the Fae are up to this weekend. Make a craft, color a page, sign-up to have an ‘Official’ faerie interview ‘cuz the fae want to hear from you and about you!
Chainmaille 101
Friday, 6:00 PM-7:50 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Billy Van Ark
This hands-on make & take will walk you through the basics of making chainmaille (a.k.a. maille). We’ll cover the tools of the trade (pliers, rings, and patterns), and learn how to make a simple piece of maille that you’ll take home with you!
Being Kind To Our Fellow Creatives
Friday, 6:00 PM-6:55 PM, Art
Carolyn Kay (M), Amy Griswold, Brooke Lydick
It gets pretty easy to become competitive with other creatives when you see them getting opportunities that you’d like to have for yourself. After years and years of working your butt off, you see your peers making gains while your career is at a seeming stand-still. It’s frustrating. Our panel talks about how important it is to be kind to each other and to be nice to your fans no matter what.
Woman Warriors
Friday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Vennessa Robertson (M), Mr. Harmel, Randy Upton
How to create bold fighting women who lead, inspire, and know how to use a weapon or two (or three…).
Cosplaying with Kids and Families
Friday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Costuming
Vonie’ Stillson aka Lady Vo (M), Ana MacDonell
Panelist share tips and tricks on successful con going and cosplay creating with kids of all ages.
Drake U: Don’t Tell Your Story – Show It!
Friday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Writing
Maxwell Alexander Drake (M)
Ever wonder how the really good books suck a reader in and hold their attention page after page? It might not be the characters, nor even the plot of the book. It’s could be the way in which the author writes that separates their story from the pack. Join award-winning author and former Lead Fiction Writer for Sony’s EverQuest Next, Maxwell Alexander Drake, as he presents his class “Don’t Tell Your Story, Show It!” During this class, you will gain insight into how to put your story together in a compelling way that will have your readers turning page after page to see what happens next.
Tea Tasting
Friday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Literary
Sheila McClune (M)
What’s the difference between an Oolong, a Lapsang Souchong, and a Darjeeling? Why are green and black teas brewed differently? Come sample a variety of teas and learn how they are best brewed.
Unwoman Concert
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Main Events
Unwoman (M)
Unwoman’s live solo shows use electric cello played standing up, and live-looping accompaniment. Listen as she weaves her music.
Digital art, the future and artist
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:55 PM, Art
Blair Bartlett / Alternate Realities Studio (M), Chaz Kemp, Mitzi Bartlett
Digital art has changed a lot in the last five years, it is so much more than a push button way to make art. Now that Cgi is the standard in many industries, what is the future of the art form and what about the artist?
Cover that piano Leg
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Ana MacDonell (M)
Victorian attitudes toward sexuality aren’t quite what you thought that they were.
The Parsimonious Steampunk
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Costuming
Melanie Unruh (M), Charles McLean Redding, Lara Beckwith
Rummaging, thrifting, and modding your way to a cheap, easy, and authentic Steampunk kit.
Instant Slush Pile
Friday, 7:00 PM-8:50 PM, Music
Lou J Berger (M), Susan Clare Adams
Bring an anonymous manuscript of no more than 500 words and our moderator will read it aloud to their panel of judges. Can your manuscript make it to the end without three judges raising their hands?
How to Write Compelling Villains
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Writing
Jason Henry Evans (M)
From villains we loathe to villains we sympathize with, you can’t have a great story without great villains. Join us as we discuss how to create that villain!
Who stole the cookies?
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Michelle Reeves (M)
Put on your thinking caps and come join Sherlock Holmes solve the mystery of who stole the afternoon snacks. Snacks will be available once the culprit is caught.
VIP Speed Chatting
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Main Events
Leif Olsen (M), Julie Nakao, Kristin Dalleske, Maxwell Alexander Drake, Peri Charlifu, Tomas O’Dreams, Unwoman
A FREE gathering of fans where the VIP and special guests visit YOUR tables just to meet YOU. Meet GUESTS OF HONOR, and many more!
Late Night Youth Artist Chat
Friday, 8:00 PM-10:00 PM, Art
Chaz Kemp (M)
One of your most popular activities! (All artists are invited to attend this gathering) Questions will be places in a hat at the beginning of the chat. The moderator will chose a topic at random from the hat for our celebrity panel. Think of some juicy questions, really make us squirm!
Putting the Punk in Steampunk
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Melanie Unruh (M), Kevin Frost
Manifest the punk sociology into the material culture, art and artifacts of our countercultural community.
Victorian Clothing for the “Stout” Figure
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Costuming
Amy Griswold (M), Jason Henry Evans, Sheila McClune
Some hourglasses come with more sand than others. Become an expert on clothing for larger figures.
Lift up your Drinking Horns!
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Literary
Kim Klimek (M)
Historical beer, wine, and alcohol making – what did we make, what did we drink, and how did we talk about it?
Hats to Spats
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Melanie Unruh (M)
Dress accessories make the Genteel Steampunk. Ideas and resources for adding an air of authenticity to your Neo-Victorian attire.
Fashion and Music Hand in Hand
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Stace Johnson (M), Mike Cervantes
Explore the connections between musicians and fashion in the Steampunk and fantasy genres.
Animated short with Q&A
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Writing
Maxwell Alexander Drake (M)
Makewell Drake will show his 15 minute animated short and have a question and answer session about it. 18+ ONLY
Victorian Tailoring and Construction
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Sewing Room
Lara Beckwith (M)
Want to know what puts a cosplay or outfit over the top good? Learn how to make your clothing actually fit you before and after its construction.
Martial Arts around the world
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Parlors & Maker Space
Mr. Harmel (M)
Some martial arts existed in the 19th Century, and your Steampunk adventurer might have known them. Others were developed more recently. See demos of several arts by local instructors!
Yay! I’m Immortal… Now What?
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Art
Chaz Kemp (M), Catherine Winters, Ian Brazee-Cannon, Mitzi Bartlett
Becoming immortal is the dream of many people but let’s explore the practical side of this wondrous gift? How do you acquire wealth? Do you have to spend your life moving from town to town pretending to be a high school student? Do you bother making friends knowing that you’ll outlive them? The panel will discuss what they’d do if immortality comes knocking on their doors.
Citizen Science and the Aspirational Classes
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Steampunk / Victorian
JD Gryphion (M), Olivia Wylie, Stace Johnson
Through the lens of the Industrial Revolution’s democrotization of the sciences, we will explore the application of a similar model in the modern era, personal success, and leadership.
Fabric Resources
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Sewing Room
Pink Pitcher (M), Beverly Warner, Hideyo Mochimo
Let’s investigate modern textiles that approximate Victorian fabrics and where to find them.
Unicorn Races & Unicorn Make & Take
Saturday, 9:00 AM-10:50 AM, Children’s Programing
Unicorns are not just a hobby, their faster the wind and just tooooo beautifully fierce! Join the race. Stay bit after the races for a chance to take home your very own unicorn pony! Make & Take Create your own unicorn hobby-horse, $10 for one or $15 for two.
Sticks and Stones
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Parlors & Maker Space
Mr. Harmel (M)
Self defense with canes, brollies and walking sticks for ladies and gentlemen.
GOH Q&A – Maxwell Alexander Drake
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Main Events
Leif Olsen (M), Maxwell Alexander Drake
A question and answer session with award-winning Science Fiction/Fantasy author, Graphic Novelist, and Playwright Maxwell Alexander Drake.
Art for Mental Health & Self Care
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:55 AM, Art
Brenna Deutchman (M), Brooke Lydick, Mitzi Bartlett, Peri Charlifu
Art can be used to work out problems and as therapy; you just need to know how. We will talk about the mechanics and principles to let your art help your mental health!
Scandal Is Growing In Your Backyard!
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Steampunk / Victorian
Olivia Wylie (M)
Guided by local horticulturist Olivia Wylie, you will discover the history in the symbolic code of flowers that daring Victorian ladies and gents used to pass messages and make statements. How risque!
So, you want to cosplay, but don’t know where to start
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Costuming
Hideyo Mochimo (M), Beverly Warner, Lynelle Phillips, Vonie’ Stillson aka Lady Vo
Let us help you with that!
Jules Verne: Weirder Than You Thought
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Writing
Terry Kroenung (M)
A survey of Verne’s life and work, focusing on the less well-known aspects of both. Yes, his own nephew did try to shoot him in the groin. Yes, he did predict the Internet in 1863.
Beginning Working with EVA Foam
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Parlors & Maker Space
Charles Orndorff (M), Tauni Orndorff
Demonstrate and discuss how to begin working with EVA foam. Starting with making a pattern, cutting the foam, shaping and gluing. This will provide a great start for your adventures in EVA Foam.
GOH Q&As – Unwoman
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Main Events
Leif Olsen (M), Unwoman
A question and answer session with nationally performing and acclaimed cellist-singer-songwriter Unwoman.
Did Someone Say Art and Tea?
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:55 AM, Art
Peri Charlifu (M), Blair Bartlett / Alternate Realities Studio, Brooke Lydick
The importance of sharing a meal (or a cup of tea), and working together in a group. Artists are isolated by nature when we work, so forming tea and art groups is a good way to share the experience!
Sky Pirates and their Brethren
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Steampunk / Victorian
Chaz Kemp (M), Mike Cervantes, Vennessa Robertson
The romance of rogues and free spirits in the Steampunk genre.
Costuming on a Budget
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Costuming
Clockwork Rose Cosplay (M), Charles McLean Redding, Hideyo Mochimo, Lynelle Phillips
Whether you’re looking for a quick costume to have fun around the con or a masterpiece to take on stage, you don’t need to break the bank to make something priceless.
Drake U: How to Create a More Realistic Fictitious World
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Writing
Maxwell Alexander Drake (M)
Have you ever wondered how sci-fi and fantasy authors create such vibrant, detailed worlds that suck their readers in and wrap them in a blanket so real, you question why our own world is not more like theirs? Join award-winning author and former Lead Fiction Writer for Sony’s EverQuest Next, Maxwell Alexander Drake, as he lets you in on some of the secrets he uses to create worlds during his seminar “How to Create a More Realistic Fictitious World.
NaNoWriMo Recovery
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Literary
Veronica R. Calisto (M), Dana Bell, J.D. Harrison, Lena M. Johnson
I wrote 50,000+ words in a month. Now what? And what’s Camp NaNoWriMo?
Learn to use a sewing machine
Saturday, 11:00 AM-12:50 PM, Sewing Room
Amy Griswold (M)
$5 make and take class!
Top Hat and Bowler Making Workshop
Saturday, 11:00 AM-12:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Michelle Reeves (M)
Don’t have your own hat? Come and make your own Steampunk top hat or bowler.
Geeky Painting Make and Take
Saturday, 11:30 AM-1:55 PM, Atrium – Upstairs
Geeky themes for your painting pleasure! Exploding TARDIS, Starry Night, and more. Come by for more information.
Chainmaille 102
Saturday, 12:00 PM-1:50 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Billy Van Ark
This hands-on make & take will build on the techniques from 101. If you have prior experience, or attended Chainmaille 101, this is the class for you!
Live Figure Drawing: Cosplay Edition
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:55 PM, Art
Mike (mikeyzart) Kloepfer (M)
Come and do some life drawing with Master artist, Mike Kloepfer; all levels of skill are encourage to participate!
Fourth Demension Tutuoring
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Randy Upton (M), Ana MacDonell
Creating the concept of time travel in art, craft, and literature.
GOH Kristin – The Dark Crystal AOR
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Music
Kristin Dalleske (M)
Come and listen to our GOH Kristin talk about working on The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance. NO PHOTOGRAPHY, NO CELL PHONES, NO VIDEO.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever!
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Writing
Chaz Kemp (M)
Marvel’s film combined gorgeous Afrofuturism with superheroics and political intrigue to become a worldwide phenomenon. We’ll discuss what we took away from the film and what this means for the future.
Nonbinary & Nonhuman: Do nonhuman NB chars count?
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Literary
Ash Marie (M), Nikki Ebright
Often, the nonbinary characters in sf/fantasy are aliens or fae who have a completely different concept of gender. Representation: Awesome. But does having only nonhuman NBs dehumanize real life NBs?
Imposter Syndrome and How to Overcome it.
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:55 PM, Art
Carolyn Kay (M), Amy Griswold, Brenna Deutchman, Mitzi Bartlett
Imposter syndrome is the psychological pattern in which an individual doubts their accomplishments and has a persistent fear of being exposed as a “fraud”. Those of us suffering from this believe that we don’t deserve all that we have achieved. The panel will discuss ways to help you get past perfectionism, get past insecurities and hopefully convince you that you don’t have to get it right the very first time… or the tenth.
Costuming for Accessibility
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Costuming
Vonie’ Stillson aka Lady Vo (M), Ana MacDonell, Clockwork Rose Cosplay, Pink Pitcher
Disabled cosplayers and abled allies alike are welcome to join us as we take a look at an accessible approach to cosplay and conventions, while addressing both visible and invisible illnesses.
Instant Slush Pile
Saturday, 1:00 PM-2:50 PM, Writing
Lou J Berger (M), Kim Klimek, Melissa Koons, Nonir Amicitia, Veronica R. Calisto
Bring an anonymous manuscript of no more than 500 words and our moderator will read it aloud to their panel of judges. Can your manuscript make it to the end without three judges raising their hands?
Disney Villains That Still Terrify Us
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Literary
JD Gryphion (M), Catherine Winters, HopeFully Cosplay, Mike Cervantes, Mildred Toepfer (Mistress Mab), NightmareLoki Cosplay
No longer frightened by larger-than-life villains, we’ll discuss the Disney Villains that terrify us by reflecting real-life behaviors like manipulation, gaslighting, and devaluation.
Tomas O’Dreams and Co.
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Tomas O’Dreams (M)
Tomas the storytelling leprechaun is back with his faerie friends for more playful mischief. Children of all ages are welcome to this mix of stories and play.
Mustache and Beard Competition
Saturday, 2:00 PM-3:30 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Bring on your best beard and mustache style (or simulation if you don’t want to compete with your current facial hair). Open to all genders and growing abilities! Winners awarded in Best Grown and Best Created categories!
GOH Q&A – Peri Charlifu
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Main Events
Leif Olsen (M), Peri Charlifu
A question and answer session with full-time artist and founder & guild master of the Arts and Artisans of Colorado guild Peri Charlifu.
Cosplay and Photography for Every-Body
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:55 PM, Art
Blair Bartlett / Alternate Realities Studio (M), Amy Griswold, Brooke Lydick
Having a really good picture of your costuming is important! You have taken all the time and effort to make a really smashing costume, and you should document it in the best possible way. Find tips, tricks and things you never even thought about in this in-depth panel discussion.
Multiculturalism and Cross Culturalism in steampunk
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Melanie Unruh (M), Jason Henry Evans, Mike Cervantes, Mildred Toepfer (Mistress Mab)
Taking on the ticklish issues of cultural exposure and sharing, and cultural appropriation and exploitation.
Costuming on Short Notice
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Costuming
Ash Marie (M), Clockwork Rose Cosplay, Kevin Frost
How do cosplayers find time to make an elaborate costume every week and still have a job and/or social life? Tips for speeding up the process. Also: discuss the culture of “con-crunching.”
Geek Songwriting
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Music
Stace Johnson (M), Lorelei Suzanne , Losing Lara
Our panelists discuss songwriting as a storytelling form, and play some songs from their repertoire.
Princess Buttercup: A Great Role-Model
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Literary
Chaz Kemp (M)
Her nearly Royal Highness may not be the most shining example of a modern empowered woman, but was she a damsel in distress or a great role-model?
Oh Brother! Embroidery!!
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Sewing Room
Curious about machine embroidery but don’t know where to start? Want to see the latest and greatest in the industry live in action? Come to our embroidery panel to learn about how machine embroidery technology can change how you create. We will be demoing the Brother Luminaire and the Brother PR1050X to demonstrate the difference between single and multi-needle machines and diving into some of the features that set these machines apart from the rest.
Faerie Interviews
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Nissa LaFete (M)
The fae want to hear from you, come let the fae interview you. Tell Us Your Story – you are unique and the fae are very curious.
Boardgaming for Beginners
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Board Games & RPGs
Cori (M), Nikki Ebright
Ready to graduate from Parker Brothers, but feeling overwhelmed? Get the low down on the basics of this fun, yet oddly social hobby.
Creatives Round Table
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:55 PM, Art
Chaz Kemp (M), Dana Bell, Ian Brazee-Cannon, Lena M. Johnson
We will talk with all creatives, artists, writers, costumers, creators and fans about how we create and what keeps us focused and motivated.
Tea or a Perfectly Civilized Afternoon Nosh
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Sheila McClune (M), Mildred Toepfer (Mistress Mab)
The culture and practice of the quintessential Victorian afternoon refreshment. With recipes!
Victorian Textiles
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Costuming
Pink Pitcher (M), Beverly Warner
Looking at the ways that production technologies influenced fashion, and fashion drove inventors to produce new technologies, in the early modern period. Looking at a time line of industrial advancements in cloth and notion production.
Textuality of Asexuality
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Music
JD Gryphion (M), Ash Marie, Nonir Amicitia, Veronica R. Calisto
Should asexual characters be more often explicitly made canon? How can we achieve this?
Wish You Were There: Worldbuilding
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Writing
Stant Litore (M), Calvin Studzinski, Lou J Berger
There are two kinds of worldbuilding: the kind that describes the story’s world, and the kind that makes you wish you were there. Authors discuss the difference, and offer tips and techniques to help you bring your own fictional worlds to life.
Self-publishing on a Budget
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Literary
Melissa Koons (M), J.D. Harrison, Jason Henry Evans
Find out what you can do for free and what you’d want to pay for.
Balloon Games
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Tomas O’Dreams (M), Nissa LaFete
What are balloon games? You might think the name says it all, but no there are surprises around all the round edges. Will you master the balloons, will you win the game? Come and see.
Autobilliards
Saturday, 3:30 PM-4:55 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Charles McLean Redding (M)
A new game for Steampunk Nobility: Autobilliards! With insight and luck, select the superior sphere, place your bets, and unleash them into the arena to determine the winner!
Losing Lara Concert
Saturday, 3:30 PM-4:20 PM, Main Events
Losing Lara (M)
Come get lost in listening to wizard rock (Harry Potter), Firefly, and other nerdy themed music performed by Losing Lara!
Trivia for Geeks!
Saturday, 4:00 PM-5:55 PM, Art
Peri Charlifu (M), Lee Moody
Think you know your geek trivia? Think you’re the master of all things obscure? Test your knowledge against others with a trivia game consisting of 12 categories; three horror, three fantasy and three Science fiction! Play for prizes and bragging rights!
Devilish Dirigibles
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Calvin Studzinski (M), JD Gryphion
A frustratingly humorous history of lighter-than-air flight, starting with the 1783 Montgolfier Bother’s ascension to the final N-Class blimp landing at Lakehurst in 1962.
Costume Contest Green Room
Saturday, 4:00 PM-5:55 PM, Costuming
Beverly Warner (M), Erin Card, HopeFully Cosplay, Kevin Frost
This room is set aside for the Costume Contest participants to prepare before the Costume Contest. No peeking!
Tunes and Tones of Steampunk
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Music
Lorelei Suzanne (M)
How steampunk music relates to more conventional 19th century music, what makes music Steampunk, steampunk instruments and songs
Dungeon Master Class
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Writing
Bill (M), Mike Cervantes, Pink Pitcher
Have you ever thought about becoming a Dungeon Master? We’ll talk about preparation, world building, and running adventures. We will also explore what makes an exciting story.
Why We Need Diversity in Entertainment
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Literary
Olivia Wylie (M), Catherine Winters, Ian Brazee-Cannon, Vennessa Robertson
If we desire the best from our entertainment, then there is a need to have diversity in it as much as possible. Too often it seems like we are failing in doing this.
Lantern Make & Take and Faerie Interviews
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Michelle Reeves (M), Nissa LaFete
Create your very own faerie lanterns and light up your night. Take a lantern to blanket forts, you might want to light up your room. Also, the fae want to hear from you, come let the fae interview you. Tell Us Your Story – you are unique and the fae are very curious.
Working with EVA Foam Part 2
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Charles Orndorff (M), Tauni Orndorff
In this continuation panel we will go further into working with EVA including detailing, sealing, painting and more. It’s suggested that you attend the first EVA Foam panel but not required.
Unwoman Concert
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Main Events
Unwoman (M)
Unwoman’s live solo shows use electric cello played standing up, and live-looping accompaniment. Listen as she weaves her music.
The Complex Steampunk Villain
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Carolyn Kay (M)
Mustache twirling villains are so 2D. What if your villain was a deranged alchemist or a psychopathic hypnotist? We’ll talk about how to make your villain a more interesting mirror to your hero.
Writing Animals in Fiction
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Writing
Nancy Kay Clark (M), Dana Bell, J.D. Harrison
How far can a horse really travel? Does a rider really guide a horse with her knees? Do dogs and cats think like us, or do they even like us? How do we portray animal movement and behavior realistically in fiction?
Make more comics faster!
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Literary
Pink Pitcher (M), Lou J Berger
Do you have too many ideas, and not enough time to draw? A prolific comic artist shares ideas, exercises, and shortcuts to help you get your story out!
Scandalous Steampunk partnership dances
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Learn to dance through history with popular partnership dances like the early Victorian Waltz, the late Victorian Tango, and the roaring 20’s swing. A fun adventure in dancing through time with Holly Tomazin from Adventures in Dance
Costume Contest
Saturday, 6:00 PM-7:30 PM, Main Events
Erin Card (M), Beverly Warner, Kevin Frost, Losing Lara
Join our hosts as entrants show off their fabulous and creative costumes and are judged by our panel of special guests.
Finding Your Artistic Passion
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:55 PM, Art
Brenna Deutchman (M), Chaz Kemp, Mike (mikeyzart) Kloepfer, Mitzi Bartlett
You’re never too old or too young to find your art bliss! Art can be therapy, art can be a business or art can just be art! Let’s talk about how we can find this bliss and how to sustain it so it serves us and fulfills our lives.
Distressing 101
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Costuming
Charles McLean Redding (M)
If it’s for the rugged explorer, the wasteland scavenger, or the desert gunslinger… Costume distressing and weathering can bring a character to life! Learn the techniques and meet some of the tools.
Musical performance by Stace Johnson
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Music
Stace Johnson (M)
An hour of music performed by local musician Stace Johnson.
Drake U: Theme: If you don’t have one, you don’t have a story
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Writing
Maxwell Alexander Drake (M)
Theme is one of the great mysteries of writing. Every writer knows what they basically are, and they also know they should have one in their story. However, almost no writer knows how to actually discover their story’s Theme, or, even if they find it, understand how to use it in their story. Join award-winning author and former Lead Fiction Writer for Sony’s EverQuest Next, Maxwell Alexander Drake, as he presents his class, “Theme – If You Don’t Have One, You Don’t Have A Story!” In this lecture Drake not only breaks down exactly what a Theme is, he also teaches you how to discover your Theme, and once found, shows you exactly how to use that Theme to create a Dynamic Story!
Atlantis: The Lost Island
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Literary
Andarta (M)
The Occultists during the Victorian period were obsessed with the concept of Atlantis. Come and explore their ideas with Andarta!
Faerie Try Outs & Scavenger hunt treasure
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Tomas O’Dreams (M), Nissa LaFete
Do you have what it take to be a certified Fae? It takes skills to be fae and there is so much to being magical. Come and test your skills, and earn an Official Faerie Certificate! (You know you’re curious) Also, Come to the Conifer room to pick-up all you need to begin the adventure and scavenge the convention. This is a free activity and there are prizes if you complete the hunt.
Steam-Powered Ball
Saturday, 7:00 PM-8:50 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Blow off some steam as you bust a move to steampunk inspired tunes. Then join in the fun with steampunk and victorian dance mixers and called dances. More fun than a box of cogs and gears, with Holly Tomazin from Adventures in Dance.
A Tour Through Whitechapel
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Writing
Ana MacDonell (M)
Take a tour through Whitechapel, visit the sites where Jack the Ripper committed his crimes, and learn about his victims. Browse through all the theories about his identity. Warning: graphic pictures
Peter Pan Slumber Party
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Michelle Reeves (M)
Come in your pajamas for creative fun activities and more. Think Happy Thoughts!
Author Mega Autograph Reception
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Main Events
Leif Olsen (M), Charles McLean Redding, Ian Brazee-Cannon, Jason Henry Evans, Julie Nakao, Kevin Frost, Maxwell Alexander Drake, Mike Cervantes, Stant Litore, Vennessa Robertson, Veronica R. Calisto
Attending authors, including our Guest of Honor Maxwell Drake, will be available to sell their books, provide autographs, and visit with fans.
The Spirit of the Steampunk Era
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Melanie Unruh (M), Sheila McClune
Absinthe rose and fell in the Belle Epoch so it is naturally the favored refreshment of steampunks
Unwoman Demo and Q&A
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Music
Unwoman (M)
Ever wanted to learn from a GOH? Come sit with Unwoman and see how she loops her tracks with Q & A to follow.
Bartitsu: It Threw Moriarty Over the Cliff
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Writing
Terry Kroenung (M)
The first European mixed martial art, Bartitsu combines boxing, wrestling, stick, savate, and jiujitsu. Doyle mentions it as the method used by Holmes to defeat Moriarty.(demonstration with slides)
Fitting Bodices
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Sewing Room
Lara Beckwith (M)
A discussion on how to use darts and gores to fit Victorian bodices.
STEAM Kids Experiments
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Michelle Reeves (M)
Children of all ages are welcome to come see and make experiments that involve the STEAM principles – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math.
Color In
Saturday, 8:00 PM-10:50 PM, Atrium – Upstairs
Join fellow con-goers for a coloring session in the atrium. Bring things to color and items to color with or use the provided materials! Enjoy some quiet coloring time after a long busy day.
Grimm After Dark
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Main Events
Tomas O’Dreams (M)
Liam Bootzin and Yvonne Larson present the darker side of fairytales. The early works of the Brothers Grimm often illustrate the harshness of life and how not all the endings are happy. PG-13 Parental Guidance Suggested.
Late Night Artist Chat
Saturday, 9:00 PM-11:00 PM, Art
Chaz Kemp (M)
One of your most popular activities! (All artists are invited to attend this gathering) Questions will be placed in a hat at the beginning of the chat. The moderator will chose one at random for our celebrity panel to speak about. Think of some juicy questions; really make us squirm!
Under Where? Under There!
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Costuming
HopeFully Cosplay (M), Beverly Warner, Clockwork Rose Cosplay, Hideyo Mochimo, Lara Beckwith, NightmareLoki Cosplay
That’s right, UNDERWEAR!! Let’s talk about different undergarments and how they can enhance (or UNDERmine) your cosplay!
Animated short with Q&A
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Writing
Maxwell Alexander Drake (M)
Makewell Drake will show his 15 minute animated short and have a question and answer session about it. 18+ ONLY
Alternative Relationships for Diverse Characters
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Literary
Nancy Kay Clark (M), Nikki Ebright, Stace Johnson, Veronica R. Calisto
Panelists will discuss different ways to show relationships outside the one man + one woman, monogamy-forever-and-ever model.
Blanket Forts (adult session)
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Michelle Reeves (M)
Blankets, coloring books, crayons, and stuffed animals. Wind down the night, make a fort and relax. Adults and calm teens only please.
WhimsyCon Dance Party
Saturday, 10:00 PM-1:00 AM, Main Events
DJ music provided by none other than GOH Kristin Dalleske.
Fireside Chat with Stant Litore
Saturday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Writing
Stant Litore (M)
You won’t even notice that the fire is imaginary as Stant’s readings will evoke images that make the stories real. You may leave shaken, you may have amazing dreams after; you will definitely know you were there.
Making A Mannequin
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Parlors & Maker Space
Vonie’ Stillson aka Lady Vo (M)
Learn how to make your own custom mannequin for your costuming needs!
Morning Meditation
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Main Events
Cori (M), Andarta
Enjoy some time to quiet the thoughts from the night before and enjoy some gentle meditation, contemplation, and reflection. Clear those mental cogs and gear up for a great day!
How To Design A New Monster
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:55 AM, Art
Lou J Berger (M), Chaz Kemp, Ian Brazee-Cannon, Mitzi Bartlett, Randy Upton, Vennessa Robertson
Authors have a vast and deep mythology to draw from when drawing vampires, werewolves, and other mythological creatures. How do we choose which parts of their myths to incorporate into our own art? How do we incorporate new traits while still making them recognizable, and how do we avoid making our monsters derivative and stale? Our panel will discuss ways that you, as an author can inject new life into the monster genre and how, together, we can make monsters terrifying again!
Lexicon of Cosplay
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Costuming
Beverly Warner (M), Hideyo Mochimo
This panel will discuss the ins and outs of cosplay from how to get started to how to avoid burn-out. Techniques to keep your cosplay within your budget and still have the things you want most.
How to Write Compelling Villains
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Literary
Jason Henry Evans (M)
From villains we loathe to villains we sympathize with, you can’t have a great story without great villains. Join us as we discuss how to create that villain!
Unicorn Races
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Children’s Programing
Unicorns are not just a hobby, they’re faster than wind and just too beautifully fierce! Join the race and stay to for a Make & Take Create your own unicorn hobby-horse.
Hobbits vs. Trolls
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Parlors & Maker Space
Mr. Harmel (M)
How small characters can take on big ones. Explained and demoed by a group of local martial arts instructors.
“Art” of the Long Game
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:55 AM, Art
Peri Charlifu (M), Amy Griswold, Brenna Deutchman, Mike (mikeyzart) Kloepfer
Or: Keeping momentum and staying the course. Sure it’s easy to be super motivated when your business is brand new! Keeping momentum is hard, especially with set backs and unexpected problems that face every artist. Our panel of professionals will talk about the tricks and strategies that keep you focused and productive!
Neo-Victorian Etymology
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Steampunk / Victorian
Stace Johnson (M), Mike Cervantes
An examination of how word meanings and colloquialisms developed in the Victorian era and how they have evolved through social use.
Shiny Garden: What’s Next
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Music
Nikki Ebright (M), Billy Van Ark, Julie Nakao
The times change, and we change with them. Shiny Garden board and staff members discuss what is on the horizon and our long-term goals.
Steampunk in the Movies
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Writing
Lynelle Phillips (M)
Do you love movies with a steampunk flair? Come join us for a round robin discussion on your favorite steampunk movies and why you like them. Everyone is invited to share insights and opinions.
The Art of War
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Literary
Kim Klimek (M), Calvin Studzinski
Historical warriors of Eurasia – learn about their technology, tactics, and poetry. Use the past to create a factual base for your writing!
Corsetry from scratch
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Sewing Room
Beverly Warner (M), Jason Henry Evans, Lara Beckwith, Mildred Toepfer (Mistress Mab)
An overview of the processes, patterns, and materials for creating authentic foundations.
Make a Faerie Garden
Sunday, 10:00 AM-11:50 AM, Children’s Programing
Michelle Reeves (M)
The faeries need your help spreading more plants around our neighborhoods. Come and create your own Faerie Garden you can take home.
Chainmaille Jam
Sunday, 11:00 AM-12:55 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Billy Van Ark
This hands-on make & take is open for all levels of chainmaille crafting. Work on your existing project or start a new one. Leftover materials will be given away to session attendees, so don’t miss out!
Hitting Your Deadlines as Artists & Authors
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:55 AM, Art
Amy Griswold (M), Chaz Kemp, Mitzi Bartlett
The end is near! For an artist, author or costumer, getting your work done on time is critical to the success of your project! We will talk about how to make your deadlines, set reasonable time-lines and tips, tricks and strategies to make it all happen.
Too Many Gears and Goggles!
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Steampunk / Victorian
Sheila McClune (M), JD Gryphion, Melanie Unruh, Mildred Toepfer (Mistress Mab)
Let’s expand the Steampunk trope beyond Neo-Victorian fantasy. What other elements are there to Steampunk beyond gears and goggles?
Animated short with Q&A
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Writing
Maxwell Alexander Drake (M)
Makewell Drake will show his 15 minute animated short and have a question and answer session about it. 18+ ONLY
Behind the Scenes of Anthologies
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Literary
Dana Bell (M), Ian Brazee-Cannon, Kevin Frost, Susan Clare Adams
What happens after you submit your story? Learn from those who have been on multiple sides of this unique beast.
Geeky Painting Make and Take
Sunday, 11:30 AM-1:55 PM, Atrium – Upstairs
Geeky themes for your painting pleasure! Exploding TARDIS, Starry Night, and more. Come by for more information.
Unwoman Concert
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Main Events
Unwoman (M)
Unwoman’s live solo shows use electric cello played standing up, and live-looping accompaniment. Listen as she weaves her music.
Steampunk for Mental Health
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Vonie’ Stillson aka Lady Vo (M), Carolyn Kay
Discussion of how and why this creative world is mental health positive, backed empirical evidence.
Cosplay Power: Make-Up!
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Costuming
HopeFully Cosplay (M), Clockwork Rose Cosplay, Hideyo Mochimo, NightmareLoki Cosplay
Learn about basic make-up application for cosplay, including tips for creating popular cosplay looks, such as pretty princesses, natural heroes, and edgy villains.
Drake U: Making Magic Believable
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Writing
Maxwell Alexander Drake (M)
Magic, by definition, is fake. It’s an illusion. However, in a fantasy novel it’s supposed to be more than that – it’s a fact of the world as much as gravity or physics. But how to make it feel real to the reader? Join award-winning author and former Lead Fiction Writer for Sony’s EverQuest Next, Maxwell Alexander Drake, as he delves into the mystical topic of weaving Magic into your story.
Poetry Panel
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Literary
Stace Johnson (M), Dana Bell
Join our poets for a reading of original and established speculative poetry, from steampunk to science fiction and fantasy.
Wonderland Unbirthday Tea Party
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Michelle Reeves (M)
If it’s your Unbirthday than come join the Wonderland characters for a special tea party. Children of all ages are invited to come.
3D Printing
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Charles Orndorff (M), Tauni Orndorff
We will talk about two types of 3d printers and demonstrate using an FDM and SLA 3d printers, discussing the differences and advantages of each. We will have some pieces that we have made to show off
Iron Costumer
Sunday, 1:00 PM-4:00 PM, Main Events
Erin Card (M), Beverly Warner, HopeFully Cosplay
It’s Iron Chef, costume-style! Contestants will have 1 hour 45 minutes to create something exciting for the judges. What will be the secret ingredient? Hajime!
Social Consciousness and Steampunk
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Vonie’ Stillson aka Lady Vo (M), Carolyn Kay
How the community incorporates themes of equality, social responsibility, and inclusion.
Crossplay and Genderbend 101
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Costuming
Lara Beckwith (M), Clockwork Rose Cosplay, Hideyo Mochimo
Have you ever wanted to perfect the art of cosplaying as a gender other than your own? Have you wanted to take a cosplay and alter it to fit the gender you identify as? This is the panel for you!
Sticking the Landing: How to End Your
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Writing
Lou J Berger (M), Lena M. Johnson, Melissa Koons
The ending of a story has to come together with the right mix of finality and logical conclusions to the main plots. Why do some endings leave a lasting impact and others just fizzle? What does a good ending look like?
Author Readings
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Literary
Stant Litore (M), Calvin Studzinski, J.D. Harrison
Readings by regional authors from their published works. Come enjoy hearing directly from the creators!
Tomas O’Dreams and Co.
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Tomas O’Dreams (M)
Tomas the storytelling leprechaun is back with his faerie friends for more playful mischief. Children of all ages are welcome to this mix of stories and play.
Steampunk Origami
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Vonie’ Stillson aka Lady Vo (M), Ana MacDonell
Always wanted to learn about Origami, but never had the chance? Come join members of Airship Iron Opal to learn some basic building blocks of this intriguing art form.
Kickstart Your Art (of all kinds)
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Art
Brenna Deutchman (M), J.D. Harrison
Tips from makers of all kinds, from authors to artists, on the ins and outs of crowd funding your creative endeavors.
Scientific Steampunk
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Steampunk / Victorian
Calvin Studzinski (M), Olivia Wylie, Terry Kroenung
Steampunk is not just fantasy with gears, but a world that could have been. Here are several scientific and technological possibilities that might have brought more steam to real-world history.
Instant Slush Pile
Sunday, 2:00 PM-3:50 PM, Costuming
Lou J Berger (M), Nonir Amicitia, Susan Clare Adams
Bring an anonymous manuscript of no more than 500 words and our moderator will read it aloud to their panel of judges. Can your manuscript make it to the end without three judges raising their hands?
Losing Lara Performance
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Music
Losing Lara (M)
Come listen to music based on Harry Potter, Firefly, and Buffy!
Animation production
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Writing
Maxwell Alexander Drake (M)
Maxwell Drake will host a class about the animation process, taking story to the screen.
To Self Pub or Not: Is It Really Easy?
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Literary
Stant Litore (M), Kevin Frost, Vennessa Robertson
What does it take to transform your beloved manuscript from standard manuscript format to print and eBooks formats and get it out there for purchase?
Corsetry fitting workshop
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Sewing Room
Lara Beckwith (M)
Come try on some corsets and talk about all things corsetry!
Blanket Forts (all ages)
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Michelle Reeves (M)
Remember how much fun it was to make forts in the livingroom with couch cushions? Let’s do it again! This time we’ll be using blankets and tables to take us on our imagination journey to the ocean or stars — wherever we want to go!
Yarn Arts
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Parlors & Maker Space
Vonie’ Stillson aka Lady Vo (M)
Learn how to make a yarn octopus! This will be a make and take.
Death in Victorian times
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Writing
Ana MacDonell (M)
A morbid look at how Death was treated by Victorians. Their superstitions, rituals, and traditions.
Free Time & Scavenger Hunt Treasures
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Children’s Programing
Tomas O’Dreams (M), Nissa LaFete
Come to the Conifer room to pick-up all you need to begin the adventure and scavenge the convention. This is a free activity and there are prizes if you complete the hunt.
Closing Ceremonies
Sunday, 4:00 PM-4:30 PM, Main Events
Leif Olsen (M), Julie Nakao, Kristin Dalleske, Maxwell Alexander Drake, Peri Charlifu, Unwoman
Come recap the weekend, relive the highlights, hear a few closing words from our guests, and say goodbye until next time.