Korean sword art Haidong Gumdo demonstration. See dynamic performances by trained students from White Tiger Martial Arts! Watch, be wowed, and ask questions. Discover your inner warrior today! Panelists: Sarah Wurdeman, Mark Wurdeman, Gabriel Olson-Musel, Melanie Galloway, Simon Gibson, Heather Sigstad, Laura Kreft, Kyle Anderson, George Richard, Chris Kickhafer, Aaron VanderGiessen, Kevin Ehrler, Bill Hedrick
Lost your saucer? Your space nuts gone far-out? Went where no man has gone before? The Fandom Menace will help you navigate with a Spocktacular video and music show featuring classic themes from your (parents'?) favorite SF & fantasy movies and TV shows. Panelists: Nick Rezmerski
Big Fun Radio Funtime presents old time radio plays for a new time audience. Sit back, close your eyes, and let the funny sounds transport you to different places and times. There might be aliens, vampires, monster trucks, or even shoe salesmen but it will all be fun. Maybe even Big Fun! Presented by Fearless Comedy Productions. Panelists: Tim Wick
It's a glamorous red-carpet extravaganza as we welcome our many Guests of Honor to the Doubletree for four days of fabulous fandom! This star-studded affair will get you pumped up to celebrate the 20th anniversary of CONvergence like nothing else. Master of Ceremonies Tim Wick is joined by Connie for an award show like no other. Panelists: Kurt Larson, Eleanor Arnason, Elizabeth Bear, Wesley Chu, Paul Cornell, Amal El-Mohtar, Lee Harris, Kelly McCullough, Mary Jo Pehl, Victor Raymond, Lisa Snellings, Melinda Snodgrass, Greg Weisman, Michael Wilson, Dawn Krosnowski, Vincent Truitner, Tamora
Drink delegates turn deadly, as our board of beverage buffs determine which will kill and which will be spilled! Panelists: Tim Wick (mod), Tim Uren, Melissa Kaercher, Christopher Jones, Duck Washington, Joseph Scrimshaw, Kelvin Hatle, Paul Cornell, Lindsay Ellis
Doomkitten & Dogbone are the comedy music duo you never knew you needed in your life. For mature listeners with childlike humor who enjoy big words. You can find them at www.facebook.com/Doomandbone and https://doomkittendogbone.bandcamp.com/releases. Panelists: Doomkitten, Dogbone
Welcome to the Twin Cities' very own podcast dedicated to original speculative fiction! Join us for our FINAL show, and have your jaded chuckles recorded for posterity. Panelists: phillip low, Ben San Del, Pat Harrigan, Joshua Scrimshaw
Grab your friends and join us as we dive into another carefully curated selection of the "best" in scifi erotica. Panelists: Kristina Winn, Katie Rodriguez MacInnes, Kate Cornish, Katherine Affeldt, Scott Raleigh, Molly Hair, Windy Bowlsby
Junkfood Cinema host Brian Salisbury and programmer Adam Lueck take a scalpel to three of their favorite cult films suffering from a bad case of schlockitis. In the course of the show, the guys will see if they can stitch together a healthier Hollywood. Panelists: Brian Salisbury, Adam Lueck
Thursday July 5, 2018 11:30pm - Friday July 6, 2018 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Plaza 3
Live electronic band performance combining visuals with custom lighting and stage design for a unique venue experience. Zwaremachine are known for various stunts including walking through walls, time-shifting, and designing futuristic sonic weaponry. Panelists: Ryan Ruckus, Mach Fox, Adam01
Thursday July 5, 2018 11:30pm - Friday July 6, 2018 12:30am CDT
Sheraton Gibson
We are an eclectic mix of filk, pop, and parodies. We believe there is light at the end of any tunnel, and sometimes that light is giggling. Our set is intended to be comfortable for people with sensory sensitivity. Find us at: facebook.com/candlesenough Panelists: Sarah Ravely, Kelly Reich
When does a guitar not sound like a guitar? Todd Madson's soothing ambient space guitar soundscapes allows for a way to de-stress from a day of panels, people, and activity. Expect a special tribute to the late con photographer Baron Dave Romm. Panelists: Todd Madson
Two competing teams of "literary experts" explain the plot of a book, based only upon the cover art they see on the screen. Panelists: Miss Shannan Paul, Paul Cornell, Lee Harris, Jerry Belich, Dawn Krosnowski, Sharon Stiteler, Tim Wick (mod), Nick Glover, Molly Glover, Melissa Kaercher
Tanya Brody once again graces HarmCon with her special blend of original and traditional folk, with a few fun covers thrown in for good measure. Hear her sing some favorite tunes, and learn a few new ones, as she accompanies herself on harp and guitar. Panelists: Tanya Brody
Scott Keever is a composer and multi-instrumentalist who specializes in solo guitar from Celtic to Balkan, jazz to classical. He has performed regionally with Cats Laughing, Lojo Russo & Funks Grove, Zurround, The Sweet Colleens, and Orkestar Bez Ime. Panelists: Scott Keever
A quick preview of the thundering taiko drums that await in Harisen Daiko's Sunday performance on Mainstage (home of the Taiko Sci Fi medley!). Stop by the garden court to get a taste of Harisen BRINGING THE BOOM! Panelists: Kristin Grandt, Scott Grandt, Melissa Green, Marit Hanson, Holly Johnson, James Sammartano, Jill McTavish, Christopher Stephan, Tristan Stephan, Vanessa Stephan, Steve Sylvestre, Frederick Sylvestre, Al Zdrazil
Award-winning playwright phillip low has created an adaptation of the Batman's earliest appearances! Come listen to a full-cast reading of Bill Finger's self-made world's great detective. Panelists: Kelvin Hatle, phillip low (mod), Joshua Scrimshaw, Tim Uren, Duck Washington
Help Celebrate 20 years with CONvergence's very own circus! Witness performances of many styles: belly dance, acrobats, comedy, sideshow, and high flying aerial artists--all with signature geeky themes of course! Step right up to the Mainstage, these are acts not to miss! Panelists:
This Chicago-area duo blends guitar and bass with vocal harmonies in original songs about life, the universe, and just about everything along with some unexpected covers for a fantastically fun musical journey. Panelists: Cathy McManamon, Jason Neerenberg
Join comedian Joseph Scrimshaw (Screen Junkies, ForceCenter, RiffTrax) for an hour of “geek-flavored” comedy about going outside and talking to other humans! Thrill to tales of social anxiety escape rooms, trying to save Toys R Us, Han Solo going to Denny’s, and more! Panelists: Joseph Scrimshaw
Nerds have words, and we want to hear them! Show up, sign up, and if the lottery gods are kind you (yes, you) may be drawn to read two three-minute poems to an audience of drunken strangers, and watch your heart and soul assigned numeric value. Panelists: Allison Broeren, phillip low, Dan Marlow, Cole Sarar, Bryan Worra, Lyda Morehouse, Ben San Del, Pat Harrigan, Sam Cook
Four "experts" must each give a PowerPoint presentation with slides they have never seen before, and the slides make no sense! Panelists: Bill Stiteler (mod), Melissa Kaercher, Joseph Scrimshaw, Tim Uren, Duck Washington, Molly Glover, Sharon Stiteler, Andrea Ropella, Tim Wick
We, the Mistresses of the Naughty Bawdy Brigade entertain you with songs, jokes, limericks, and a whole lot of double entendre. We plan to entrance or entrap (your choice) you with our assets. Check us out at https://www.facebook.com/MBessMNellNBB/ Panelists: Tracy Fuller, Anna Miller-Sherman, Amanda Nerud
Vilification Tennis is a structured improvisational show where competitors engage in a battle of insults. The show is never the same because the competitors keep changing and the material is constantly evolving. We feel that there is humor inherent even in the most taboo subjects and we are, therefore, willing to make fun of things that most people would think aren't the least bit funny. Like your mom. Beware- this show is not for those with delicate sensibilities. (We will need to clear the room after this performance to prepare for music.) Panelists: Tim Wick, Molly Glover, Nick Glover
It's December 21st, 2012, and something's gone terribly wrong with the timeline. Now it's up to Saint Nicholas, a soft-boiled detective, and an unknown carpenter's son named Jesus of Nazareth to set things right! Panelists: phillip low
Friday July 6, 2018 11:30pm - Saturday July 7, 2018 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Plaza 3
As clips of strange movies play onscreen, a team of voice actors and musicians create a whole new soundtrack... without ever seeing the movies before! It's film, improv comedy, and live music all in one, plus a 75% chance of rubber-suit monsters! Panelists: Dawn Krosnowski, Melissa Kaercher, Jerry Belich, Scott Keever, Kelvin Hatle, Molly Glover, Tim Uren, Joseph Scrimshaw, Matt Kessen, Duck Washington, Lauren Haven
Friday July 6, 2018 11:30pm - Saturday July 7, 2018 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 6
Nerdy burlesque performers assemble! Back at HarmCon for year 3 of geek- and pop culture-infused burlesque and cabaret performance art! We’ll showcase a medley of your favorite characters through the dazzling, humorous, and sexy scope of burlesque! Panelists: Mona Montague, Opiumm Hayze, Holliedazzle, Sinasaurus Vex, Joy Coy, Champagne Lorraine
Friday July 6, 2018 11:30pm - Saturday July 7, 2018 12:30am CDT
Sheraton Gibson
Learn about the mighty dragons that plagued Middle-earth in a funny and informative manner...puppet style. It's safe to laugh at these live dragons! Panelists: Daniel Lindskog, Jessica Lindskog, Corinne Lindskog
We're just like Voltron, except we have violins, viola, cello, harp, and recorders instead of robot lions. And we mix covers of TV and movie themes with Renaissance ballads, instead of defending the planus Arus. Okay; I guess we're nothing like Voltron. Panelists: Stephanie Claussen, Katherine Kilde, Chris Mortika, Kathleen O'Laughlin, Kerry Peterson, Eve Zabronsky
The Faithful Sidekicks make (mostly) funny acoustic rock music about all the nerdy/geeky things - catchy original songs for all the fandoms we love delivered with a side of snark. http://www.thefaithfulsidekicks.com Panelists: Eric Distad, Jen Distad
CONvergence partner Fearless Comedy Productions presents a murder mystery at CVG2108! One of our panelists is too annoying to survive. Help figure out who killed them. Panelists: Paul Cornell, Tim Wick, Dawn Krosnowski, Andrea Ropella, Angela Fox, Matt Kessen, Cara White, Eric Thompson
Modular Synth Lord Orathkar emerges from oblivion to put your brain in a blender, joined by Admiral Astroprobe on vocals and acoustic guitar. Each audience member receives a singularity. Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/R6mvrY_JqiY Panelists: Kevin Campbell, Niles Randolph
Join Greg Weisman and his CONvergence-assembled cast for a radio play. Panelists: Kristopher Carter, Greg Weisman, Marina Sirtis, Tanya Brody, Windy Bowlsby, Natalie Nowytski, Lee Harris, Christopher Jones
An hour of stand-up comedy featuring an all-star lineup of veteran CONvergence performers. Panelists: Corey Adam, Miss Shannan Paul, Ben San Del, Joseph Scrimshaw, Elizabeth Ess
Geeks Without God returns for their sixth anniversary to discuss being godless geeks! Panelists: Tim Wick, Melinda Snodgrass, Molly Glover, Nick Glover
Junkfood Cinema, the weekly cult and exploitation filmcast so good, it just has to be fattening. Hosted by Brian Salisbury and novelist/screenwriter C. Robert Cargill (Doctor Strange), JFC is devoted to the unabashed love of movies of all quality levels. Panelists: Brian Salisbury
The Know-It-All Panel doesn't know what they are going to talk about until the audience tells them! From Solving the Millennial Problem to Explaining Gravitational Theory, this erudite team of improvisers and their special guests are ready to enlighten. Panelists: Andrea Ropella, Susanne Becker, James Fairbairn, Tim Wick, Eric Thompson
SlytherPuff is a local Wizard Rock Duo who perform original and cover songs about their favorite fandoms, including Harry Potter, Marvel, Mad Max, and more! Maren brings the Slyther, and Morgan brings the Puff! Panelists: Morgan Strickland, Maren Aalgaard
The CONvergence Masquerade is where those friends you used to have who disappeared for seven months in preparation for this convention can finally be seen again. Come see what they locked themselves away for. Showcasing the talents of costumers spanning all skill levels from beginners to masters, awards are given by judges for both workmanship and presentation. Performance. Panelists:
Peter the Great is a stand-up comedian and cosplayer who takes an innuendo-fueled and whimsically dark spin on geek fandoms and nerd culture at sci-fi, fantasy, comic, anime, and gaming conventions! Follow him on social media @PetertheGreatMN Panelists: Peter the Great
This is a British radio game show: basically an excuse for four panelists and the host to play childish games for an hour. Come watch our panelists play Mornington Crescent and One Song to the Tune of Another! Panelists: Marina Sirtis, Lee Harris, Windy Bowlsby, Scott Lynch, Paul Cornell
A live recording of Joseph’s hit comedy podcast about liking things a lot. This episode, Joseph and his guests obsess over the Marvel Cinematic Universe! Who will be the most obsessed???? Panelists: Ben San Del, Sara Scrimshaw, Tim Wick, Joseph Scrimshaw
FENG SHUI NINJAS are provided AS IS. No warranty expressed or implied. ABSOLUTELY NO REFUNDS. Listen at your own risk! Click "I agree" to listen to this concert. Panelists: Justin Hartley, John Kentner, Tami Murck, Dave Stagner
Laugh along with four local comedians from Fearless Comedy Productions, a non-profit company bringing comedy to the Twin Cities. Nothing is off limits at this 18+ showcase. Panelists: Pher Sturz, Cara White, Jason Kruger, Aiden In A Kilt
A look into the history of Information Society (InSoc) is a peek at the evolution of electronic music with a flair for all things geek. Even if you somehow don’t think you know the name, you’re certain to know the music. InSoc tore into the scene during MTV’s golden era and added firmly to the richness of music originating from Minnesota. CONvergence is happy to celebrate its 20th year with these titans of synthpop.
Saturday July 7, 2018 11:00pm - Sunday July 8, 2018 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Main Stage
Saturday's musical journey traverses a dreamlike state beginning with a live performance from Information Society! Our traditional hour of sci-fi and geek related music and follows, then the party continues with the folks that have been making Mainstage dance for years. See our video signage for additional info and updates to our schedule. Panelists:
Saturday July 7, 2018 11:00pm - Sunday July 8, 2018 6:00am CDT
DoubleTree Main Stage
Discussions of everything from menstruation in popular fiction to open office layouts. Is Banner a metaphor for perimenopause in Infinity War? Who's going to end up in the Bechdel Box? Find out when we reveal our Nefarious Vagenda! Panelists: Melissa Kaercher, Sharon Stiteler, Windy Bowlsby, Alee Baker, Amy Stomberg, Molly Glover, Bridget Landry
Saturday July 7, 2018 11:30pm - Sunday July 8, 2018 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 6
The Dregs have performed at CVG almost as long as there's been a CVG! They return with their signature blend of music and stupidity. Enjoy classics like "Pissing off the Geeks" and newer "hits" like "Sharknado!" You won't be sorry unless you aren't there! Panelists: Tim Wick, Susanne Becker, Paul Score, Rachael Salisbury Dimba, Molly Zupon, Trevor Hartman
Saturday July 7, 2018 11:30pm - Sunday July 8, 2018 12:30am CDT
Sheraton Gibson
Easily the premiere go-to event for those that aren't still sleeping in their Sunday, Harisen Daiko presents CONvergence with a unique interpretation of science-fiction themes via traditional Japanese percussion and performance. Panelists:
Watch as talented artists are given impossible challenges! Could you create a CONvergence-themed amusement park in thirty minutes? How about design a new Doctor Who costume in five minutes? These artists create the impossible! Panelists: Tim Wick (mod), Windy Bowlsby, Christopher Jones, Melissa Kaercher, Jerry Belich, Louis Frank, Holly Chamas
Joseph Scrimshaw, comedian and co-host of the Star Wars podcast, Force Center, presents a a fast, fun, and absurd quiz show about that galaxy far, far away. Panelists: Joseph Scrimshaw, Paul Cornell, Jeremy Stomberg, Molly Glover
Join the crew of Hot Chocolate Media as they improvise the concept of a movie based on a random suggestion from the internet. Panelists: Jacob Gulliver, Kyle Dekker, Ben Lifson, Brian Salisbury
Twenty years down! It's time to say a fond farewell to CONvergence for another year, but don't feel blue: Master of Ceremonies Andrea Ropella and robot mascot Connie are here to unravel the mysteries of next year's theme and say goodbye to our illustrious Guests of Honor! We'll also delve into the details of the dedicated departments that work all year to make your CONvergence dreams come true. Panelists: Kurt Larson, Eleanor Arnason, Elizabeth Bear, Paul Cornell, Amal El-Mohtar, Lee Harris, Kelly McCullough, Mary Jo Pehl, Victor Raymond, Melinda Snodgrass, Greg Weisman, Michael Wilson, Dawn Krosnowski, Ytasha Womack, Vincent Truitner, Gordon Purcell, Tamo