What follows is a listing of all panels and events planned for Thursday, April 14th. The program grid is also available (44KB .pdf).
Individual times are listed in Pacific Daylight Saving Time (PDT). For the convenience of our virtual members joining us from elsewhere, headers marking Eastern Daylight Saving Time (EDT) and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) are included.
Items being streamed to our virtual platform are marked with the Airmeet logo (). All streaming events for the weekend are listed together on the streaming schedule page.
Schedules for the rest of the weekend are listed here, or jump directly to Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.
We will be updating this list as major changes occur, until the convention opens. Last updated
.11 a.m. PDT (2 p.m. EDT / 6 p.m. GMT)
Grand 2
11 a.m.–3 p.m.
11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Come test a variety of Nerf blasters at our firing range. Players under 13 must be accompanied by a parent. Equipment is provided at the play area. Shoes are required. Badges are not necessary for this event, but all participants must check in at registration to confirm vaccination status and get a wristband prior to entry.
Noon PDT (3 p.m. EDT / 7 p.m. GMT)
Maxi’s Ballroom
noon–2 a.m.
noon–2 a.m.
Come check out games from our lending library. We have card games, board games, and so much more! Need accessibility assistance for a game? Please speak to our staff so we can be sure to meet your needs.
Cascade 4
noon–10 p.m.
noon–10 p.m.
Rotunda 1; Rotunda 2
noon–2 a.m.
noon–2 a.m.
Come sign up for a game run by our volunteers. We have role-playing games, LARPs, card games, board games, and so much more! Need accessibility assistance for a game? Please speak to our staff when you sign up so we can be sure to meet your needs.
3 p.m. PDT (6 p.m. EDT / 10 p.m. GMT)
Cascade 5 & 6
3–4 p.m.
3–4 p.m.
News flash: The universe is not like Star Trek the original series. You’re gonna need more than a red shirt to succeed.
Colette Breshears (M), Alan Andrist, Michael “Tinker” Pearce
Cascade 9 & 10 / ![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
3–4 p.m.
![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
3–4 p.m.
Flash fiction (usually 1, 500 words or less) is a form of fiction that is attractive to writers and readers alike for its extreme brevity. How can you tell a story in such limited space? How does a writer build a world, let alone a character, in 1, 500 words? Who are the great practitioners and how are they successful? Panelists will recommend their favorite stories, along with markets where flash fiction can be submitted.
Cat Rambo (M), Brianna Tibbetts, Izzy Wasserstein
Cascade 11
3–4 p.m.
3–4 p.m.
The wagon train to the stars is a familiar trope in science fiction. Firefly, Star Trek, Farmer in the Sky, Outland, Cowboys & Aliens—examples of Western stories set in outer space abound. The immense distances in space create issues similar to those experienced by American settlers, other colonists, and the native inhabitants they encounter. Come join a discussion of this popular form of the genre.
Dr. Sean Robinson (M)
Cascade 12
3–4 p.m.
3–4 p.m.
We are all told not to judge a book by its cover, but cover artwork plays an important role in attracting new readers. Learn what goes into the design of a cover, including how artists are chosen. Find out what the artist is given to work with to design art that, attracts interest, though it is partially obscured.
Marta Murvosh (M), Benjamin Gorman, Jeff Sturgeon, Brittany Torres
Olympic 1
3–4 p.m.
3–4 p.m.
Want to learn how to draw like an illustrator or comic artist? This is for you! Come learn how to draw a character from scratch. Younger artists will need adult helpers for this panel. Sign up in Olympic 1. (All ages.)
Rebecca A. Demarest (M), Rob Carlos
Olympic 3
3–4 p.m.
3–4 p.m.
Our kids have access to resources that previous generations did not. As a result, they are more likely to come to realizations about gender and sexuality at an early age, sometimes earlier than parents are equipped to deal with. This can be especially true in fandom circles, where much fan-produced media is queer-centric. How do you help your kids navigate fandom spaces safely, and support them in the process of discovering who they are?
Adrienne Dellwo (M), Sar Surmick, Sheye Anne Blaze, Lydia K. Valentine
4 p.m. PDT (7 p.m. EDT / 11 p.m. GMT)
Cascade 5 & 6
4–5 p.m.
4–5 p.m.
As people settled into cities and adopted agriculture, the importance of hunter-gathering techniques diminished. Over time, hunting became the prerogative of elites, allowing them to supplement their diets, spend leisure time, and display martial prowess. Panelists will investigate how hunts were conducted and how the practice has survived in modern times.
Alan Andrist (M), D.L. Solum, Mike Brennan
Cascade 7 & 8
4–5 p.m.
4–5 p.m.
What is a pitch and why do you need one? What are the types of pitches? What are the necessary building blocks you need to make one work?
Jennifer Brozek (M), Benjamin Gorman, Gabe (G.S.) Denning, Sara A Mueller
Cascade 9 & 10 / ![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
4–5 p.m.
![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
4–5 p.m.
A trope of old fantasy stories is that all creatures of the same species are culturally alike. How unrealistic is it? When (if ever) is it excusable? What tricks can authors use to diversify monolithic cultures without derailing the story or the world they want to build?
Eva L. Elasigue, Richard Stephens, Xander Odell
Olympic 1
4–5 p.m.
4–5 p.m.
We all do it. Write fanfiction, that is. And we shouldn’t be ashamed! Come learn about the world of writing fanfiction, including techniques, avenues for sharing, and where to grow from there. (Ages 11-19)
Berlynn Wohl (M), Victoria Shaffer, Brianna Tibbetts, Camden Rose
Olympic 3
4–5 p.m.
4–5 p.m.
We’ve talked about diversity vs. inclusion, and equality vs. equity. How do we reach actual inclusion? What steps does fandom need to take to ensure everyone has a seat at the table? How do these steps translate into everyday life? Join this panelist-led discussion.
Cat Rambo (M), Sheye Anne Blaze
5 p.m. PDT (8 p.m. EDT / 12 a.m. April 15 GMT)
Cascade 5 & 6
5–6 p.m.
5–6 p.m.
With the proliferation of tutorials and art channels on YouTube, is it necessary to take in-person classes or go to art school? What are the benefits and drawbacks of a formal art education, and what are the best online resources?
Theresa Halbert (M), Brittany Torres, Meghan D. Lancaster
Cascade 7 & 8
5–6 p.m.
5–6 p.m.
You finished NaNoWrimo, and now you want to hire a freelance editor to help you turn your 50, 000 words into a masterpiece! That may not be the best use of your time or money. What can an editor help with and what can’t they help with? When should you seek out an editor, and what type of editor do you need?
J. Komp (M), Jay Boyce
Cascade 9 & 10 / ![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
5–6 p.m.
![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
5–6 p.m.
Can’t tell a sewing machine from a Dalek? Break out in hives at the thought of threading a needle? Come talk to our panelists and see costumes that don’t require more than an imagination, some time, and the willingness to experiment. Minimal sewing, assembling found items, and some judicious gluing can make some great costumes.
Wm Salt Hale (M), Corbo Cosplay, Zamesta Cosplay, Janet Borkowski
Cascade 11
5–6 p.m.
5–6 p.m.
As machine-learning becomes more common, deep and disturbing questions keep arising. How do algorithmic feeds control our social interactions? Are generated suspect sketches accurate? Will machines gain sentience and enslave humanity? The answer is always the same: today’s “black box” programs are too complex to know. A new term has surfaced to bridge this gap in understanding: explainable artificial intelligence (XAI). Join the panel to explore these problems and potential solutions.
Peter N. Glaskowsky (M), Dr. Sean Robinson
Cascade 12
5–6 p.m.
5–6 p.m.
What if we as biological life never inherit the stars? Panelists will discuss the limits evolution has built into human tolerance for the difficulties of life in space. Can we maintain an interest in space travel without the element of human exploration? Is it enough to send robots and probes?
Jon Lasser (M), Dave Davis, Shweta Adhyam, Eric L Vargas
Olympic 3
5–6 p.m.
5–6 p.m.
For decades, science fiction and fantasy films have been relegated to the back seat of the film world, and considered inconsequential and frivolous. Martin Scorsese said superhero movies were like “theme parks” and not “the cinema of human beings trying to convey emotional, psychological experiences to another human being.” Many fans strongly beg to differ, while others agree that, while they’re great and fun movies, they don’t have the complexity and subtlety of cinema. Which begs the question, what is the difference between movies and cinema? Can a film be an extravaganza and still have poignancy, depth, and a compelling message to share?
Nick Fraser (M), Izzy Wasserstein, Kris “Pepper” Hambrick, Chris Wiswell
6 p.m. PDT (9 p.m. EDT / 1 a.m. April 15 GMT)
Cascade 5 & 6
6–7 p.m.
6–7 p.m.
A probe, a microchip, an implant? Or simply a deep knowledge of how people think? Which is more … useful?
Sar Surmick (M), Julie McGalliard, Jake McKinzie
Cascade 7 & 8
6–7 p.m.
6–7 p.m.
Brandon Lee, son of the great Bruce Lee, said that a fight scene can express what words can’t. A good fight scene can also pump up the pace of your novel, raise stakes for your character, and add immediacy to your writing. But what goes into a good fight scene? How do writers research combat skills essential to a pulse-pounding action scene, while still conveying character, motivation, and theme?
D.L. Solum (M), Michael “Tinker” Pearce, Adrienne Dellwo
Cascade 9 & 10 / ![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
6–7 p.m.
![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
6–7 p.m.
Conventions are great and all, but they only happen a handful of times a year, and that’s really not enough, don’t you agree? Let’s talk to people who fly their geek flag out and proud all year! From Star Trek in the Park to video game vocal ensembles, from podcasting to culture-specific geek websites to nerdlesque burlesque, there are lots of opportunities to share geekdom with others. Learn from the pros about how to be a part of the action, and how you can get your own geek OUT!
Kris “Pepper” Hambrick (M), Kassey Castro, Wm Salt Hale, Victoria Shaffer, Corbo Cosplay, Fox Squire
Cascade 11
6–7 p.m.
6–7 p.m.
NASA’s Artemis program intends to return humans to the moon for brief visits. However, the moon is also a logical first location for an off-Earth colony. It’s certainly easier to reach, and arguably easier to live on, than Mars. What are the social and engineering challenges involved with such an effort, and can a lunar colony pay for itself?
Peter N. Glaskowsky (M), David D. Levine, Dr. Sean Robinson
Cascade 12
6–7 p.m.
6–7 p.m.
Spending months on end stuck in our homes during the pandemic has inevitably inspired new stories about domestic dangers, haunted homes, and antagonistic family members and roommates. What’s lurking in the basement? Where did the children disappear to? Can I trust my partner? Panelists look at the history of domestic thrillers and horror at home, from classic Gothic literature to recent books and media.
Evan J. Peterson (M), Jon Lasser, Mimi Noyes, Leigh Harlen
Cascade 9 & 10
6–7 p.m.
6–7 p.m.
Costumes for fantasy settings are often modeled after historic fashions. But less obvious are the historic inspirations for future worlds of science fiction. What are some fun historic elements that make their way into costumes for films and TV shows set in future times? Can everything old be new again?
Theresa Halbert (M), Leanna Cosplay, Carmen Beaudry
Olympic 3
6–7 p.m.
6–7 p.m.
Panelists discuss how to research and incorporate findings into stories to help connect the story with a reader’s world, emotions, and experiences.
J. Komp, Heather S. Ransom
Northwest 2 & 3
6:30–7 p.m.
6:30–7 p.m.
Come and get a seat!
7 p.m. PDT (10 p.m. EDT / 2 a.m. April 15 GMT)
Northwest 2 & 3 / ![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
7–8 p.m.
![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
7–8 p.m.
Opening Ceremonies is the official kickoff to Norwescon 44! Enjoy interviews with our guests of honor, get a preview of events and essential information, and enjoy general shenanigans and merrymaking.
Fox Squire (M), Cat Rambo, Rob Carlos, Patrick Swenson, Connor Alexander, Lydia K. Valentine
8 p.m. PDT (11 p.m. EDT / 3 a.m. April 15 GMT)
Cascade 11
8–10 p.m.
8–10 p.m.
This is the beginning of Norwescon’s Speculative Film Festival, celebrating science fiction, fantasy, and horror short films from around the world. Block A films: “Ryoko’s Qubit Summer,” “Le Varou,” “What Remains of Emily,” “Nanny,” “Flour Girls,” “Subscribed,” and “The Ravin’.” A brief Q&A with film creators will follow the films.
Shawn Marier (M)
Evergreen 1
8–midnight
8–midnight
Open filk is where you can sing or play whatever you want to the most supportive crowd you will ever run into anywhere! Filk, an offshoot of folk, is the oldest form of geek music at science fiction conventions. Filk is an intentionally open and deeply participatory culture. Bring an instrument and plan to stay awhile.
Olympic 2
8–10 p.m.
8–10 p.m.
Ever wish you could be somebody else for a while? Craft a whole new you? Enhance the things you already love about yourself? With the power of drag, all these things are possible! Join Mercury Divine for this three-part drag academy and Sunday showcase! Come for some or all sessions, ready to PLAY! In Part 1: Makeup, you will be given a crash course on all things pigmented, sparkly, and dramatic that go on your face (or elsewhere?!). Practice makes perfect, so you might not emerge from our session a perfectly airbrushed drop-dead model, but we guarantee you will have fun and learn things along the way. Please bring at minimum a foundation shade that matches your skin tone, mascara or eyeliner you may want to put very near your eyes (in any color!), a mirror, and any other goodies you wish!
Mercury Divine (M)
Grand 2 / ![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
8 p.m.–1 a.m.
![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
8 p.m.–1 a.m.
Come join us for the Thursday dance: Solarpunk. Warning: flashing lights.
AR Mayor “Panda” (M)
9 p.m. PDT (12 a.m. April 15 EDT / 4 a.m. April 15 GMT)
Northwest 2 & 3
9–9:30 p.m.
9–9:30 p.m.
Come in and find a seat!
Northwest 2 & 3 / ![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
9:30–11:30 p.m.
![Streamed on Airmeet](../../../images/othersites/007-airmeet.png)
9:30–11:30 p.m.
Big Red Button Improv returns to the Norwescon with the Glitch! Gamer Improv series, where scene cues come from someone playing a classic video game. In this edition, they turn their controllers to the classic NES game Final Fantasy. Will the Light Warriors survive their quest to rescue the fair princess from the evil (Judy) Garland?
Miss Violet DeVille (M), Adrian Cerrato, Beverly Poole, Jenn Caswell, Jordan Miles
10 p.m. PDT (1 a.m. April 15 EDT / 5 a.m. April 15 GMT)
Cascade 5 & 6
10–11 p.m.
10–11 p.m.
Cascade 11
10 p.m.–midnight
10 p.m.–midnight
The Norwescon Speculative Film Festival continues. celebrating science fiction, fantasy, and horror short films from around the world. Block B starts with a mini-block of micro short films, all under three minutes. Micro shorts: “10/31/1985,” “A Journey to the Moon,” “Futures Within,” “Michael!,” “Nightmares,” “Sakuntula,” “Stray,” “The Killdren Are Coming,” “Time Glider,” and “Zombie Sharkageddon II.” Short films: “Alder,” “The Shoes of Lady Lescaire,” “A Change in Time,” “Kairos,” “Qualitative Time,” “The Wish & The Wisp,” “HOOD: A Star Wars Story,” “Eraser // The Love Project,” and “Mariposas.”
Shawn Marier (M)