The Big Week is Here: ConQuesT 43!

Annual Event Runs May 25-27, 2012

ConQuesT panel discussions address many topics.

One of the longest-running science fiction conventions in North America, Kansas City's own ConQuesT returns for a 43rd year. Pre-registrations are now closed, but memberships and day passes will be available at the door.

This year's Guests of Honor will soon arrive, along with a large group of other authors, artists, Klingons, and fans of all kinds.  ConQuesT 43 includes a large Art Show, a Masquerade, Writers Workshop and other writing events, "ConQuesT Idol" evening entertainment, the Dealers' Room, Charity Auction to benefit About SF, a special Paranormal Romance programming track and guests, and special appearances by the Klingon Assault Group.

Mass Autographing Event at ConQuesT 42, in 2011.

Also not to be missed are the ConQuesT Zombie Olympics!

Author Guests of Honor are Sharon Lee and Steve Miller, authors of the much-loved Liaden Universe books. They were recently interviewed for the "Grasping for the Wind" Blog, by Bryan Thomas Schmidt.

The 2012 Art Show is bigger than 2011.

This year's Artist Guest of Honor is Ursula Vernon, a 2012 Hugo nominee and well-known artist. She also was interviewed in depth by Schmidt. Toastmistress for 2012 is Writer, professor, and longtime fan Susan Satterfield. She also was interviewed by Schmidt, as were the Con Chairpersons. Editor Gardner Dozois and Fencon's Tim Miller also plan to attend.

Many other guests also will be making appearances. See the Guests page and scroll down for a more complete list of authors and other special guests. The Art Show page includes a list of all pre-registered artists, with website links. We also have a varied group of dealers scheduled: check the Dealers' Room page for a detailed list.

This is part of the Dealers' Room in 2011.

The convention returns to the Crown Center location where it has been for the last two years, but the hotel is under new management. The former Hyatt is now the Sheraton Crown Center. Free parking can be found near the hotel, and more convenience is available for a price. For details on parking, see the convention website.

Even for the at-the-door price, ConQuesT 43 promises to be an excellent entertainment value for anyone who enjoys science fiction, fantasy, horror, Steampunk, or other aspects of our genre.  We hope to see you there!

PHOTO CREDITS: The images of the ConQuesT panel, mass autographing, and Dealers' Room are all by Keith Stokes, from the 2011 event. They were published online in the MidAmerican Fan Photo Archive. The photo of panels in the 2011 Art Show is by Ty Gephardt.