Memorial Day weekend brings with it the annual ConQuesT convention here in KC. Hosted by the Kansas City Science Fiction and Fantasy Society, the con always attracts a wide range of authors, artists and fans from near and far. While perhaps not as big as other, similar cons, it holds its own so far as the enthusiasm and passion exhibited by its attendees.
This is my first time back to the con in a handful of years, owing mostly to the fact that I tend to like spending my Memorial Days home with the kids. However, I was convinced by a friend that I should come, and so happily accepted an invitation to attend as a guest. One thing I noticed right off the bat was that the number and variety of discussion panels filling out the weekend’s schedule was greater than I remembered. Cool! The party’s already underway, having gotten started earlier this afternoon, but my work schedule prevented me from partaking of Friday activities. That said, I have a few things on the docket for Saturday and Sunday. For example:
Saturday:
1pm-2pm: “Playing In Other People’s Sandboxes.” Writing in shared universes and working with co-authors. I assume the subject of writing for licensed properties also will rear its head. With Victoria L’Ecuyer, Sharon Lee, Julia S. Mandala and Steven Francis Murphy.
7pm-8pm: “Dark and Gritty: Today’s Sci/Fi. Most celebrated by Battlestar Galactica, this trend of realism, unexpected deaths and emotional consequences is permeating most of the Sci/Fi on TV today. Is it a good thing, and what might the future hold? With Brent Bowen, Chris Gerrib, Isaac Bell and Steven Francis Murphy.
Sunday:
11am-12pm: “Star Trek: The Saga Continues.” New movies, books, video games. Why is Star Trek the voyage that keeps on going? With Allison Stein, David J. Pedersen, and Nick “McKay” Seddon.
In and around the panels, I’m sure I’ll be skulking about various areas of the con, which normally boasts an impressive art show as well as group author signings, gaming, a costume contest, and–for the first time this year–a Klingon feast.
Barbecued targ. Nootch.
So, for any of you reading this who might be attending the con, I hope to see you there!
I live in Australia, and am soooo jealous of anyone who gets to attend. I’m with you in spirit, though. Have a ball and report back!! Can’t wait for the low-down…..
Oops. I’m not Anonymous at all!
Well, I’m jealous of anyone who lives in Australia, so I guess it’s a wash
Let me know if you come to Boston. I’ll come in costume!
What kinda costume?
I’d love to get up that way. I’ve never been to Boston, but it’s on my travel Bucket List.