All-Con starts at 10am on Friday and doesn't stop the action until 5pm on Sunday! Participating in late night and overnight content requires an occasional energy boost and NOS will be on hand in the Hospitality Suite supplying their energy drinks for those in need.
For the second year in a row NOS is sending a limited supply of energy drinks for your enjoyment and consumption in the All-Con Hospitality Suite.
Whether you're trying to get through the small hours of the morning or in need of a NOS boost mid-day to see whole convention, NOS will have you covered at All-Con.
While The World Ends, Relax And Knit!
February 5, 2012
Amidst the Zombies, Game Shows, Artists, Burlesque Performers, Starship Simulators, Doll Collectors, etc. there will be activities for Knitting at All-Con!
Craft Cafe will present, "Knitting and Crocheting: Panelists will bring knitting and crochet project examples for people who already know the basics. Beginning knitters who have only used straight needles will learn how to use double-pointed needles (dpns) and cable needles.
DFW Costumer Guild present, "Knitting Circle: For the third year in a row the DFW Costumers guild invites All-Con attendees to gather together for a good old fashioned knitting circle."
Whether you are advanced in the craft or want to learn, come sit with us and knit. Limited supplies will be available for use, but bringing your own supplies is encouraged."
Bring Plenty To Trade: All-Con Swap Meets!
February 4, 2012
2012 is a big year at All-Con for Swap Meets and Panels to trade your Dolls and Accessories; Japanese Animation Cells; Fabric and Patterns; and General Collectibles!
It's time now to start sorting through your collection, pulling out your fabric, evaluating your accessories, and sorting your production cells to find the pieces you're ready to part with -- in exchange for other exciting items!
All-Con swap meets are the few places that you don't want to walk in to empty handed. Plan ahead, pack carefully, and enjoy one of the most unique aspects of the convention!
End Of The World?? Not For Super Heroes!
February 3, 2012
It is the tradition at All-Con to wrap up the convention with our largest day... SUPER HERO SUNDAY!
Not even the end of the world can stop the super heroes (and villains!) from coming out to compete!
A wise man once uttered, "Clothes don’t make the hero, but they are a good start!" Established and well-known heroes from comics, movies, and television are welcome as are new and original creations the world has never seen before!
Categories are open for villains, heroes, adults, and children alike. Get your hero on at All-Con's Super Hero Sunday! Presented by your friends at BDG Studios! Registration forms will be at BDG Studio's table during the convention.
Special F/X Artist: Joshua Fread
Demonstrating Movie Monster Make-Up at All-Con
February 1, 2012
Want to WIN a monster make-over from award winning Special F/X artist Joshua Fread at ALL-CON?!? Mr. Fread will be demonstarting his skill of transformation during the Throwing Stones Web Horror Series discussion panel at All-Con. You could win the opportunity to be his model! Details will be available at the Throwing Stones cast table on Saturday at the convention.
"Award winning special effects artist, Joshua Fread, will be at ALL-CON courtesy of the THROWING STONES horror web series. Fread is a graduate of the prestigious Make-Up Designory School (MUD) in Burbank, California. For the last nine years, Josh has traveled between Los Angeles, Austin, and Dallas performing his special effects magic in such TV shows and horror films such as the Fox hit PRISON BREAK, AFTER SUNDOWN, FROM THE DARK, BLOOD ON THE HIGHWAY, FRIGHT FLICK, SERUM, DEAD IN TEXAS, THROWING STONES (the web series – Season2), and the upcoming Jon Keeyes directed THE MECHANICAL GRAVE and PHOBIA."
There ARE Still Hotel Rooms Available!
January 31, 2012
The Crowne Plaza still has rooms at the discounted rate! We mailed out thousands of promotional postcards last week, and the email in-box lit up with people trying desperately to get a room. As it turns out, there was a glitch in the reservations system so for everybody who was told there were no more discounted rooms, please try again.
The hotel's phone number for reservations is: 972-980-8877 and the group discount code is: LLC. Don't delay though. Judging from the response, those rooms are going to go fast!
Lindsay Seidel Wants To Meet You at All-Con
January 31, 2012
Lindsay Seidel is known for her lead role as "Emily" in the Lions Gate horror hit film The Final, as "Ellen" on on the anime favorite Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom), and her role as Blair High's favorite Social Climber Rachel Black in Throwing Stones the teen horror web series. She's coming to All-Con 2012, just in time for the end of the world, so you
don't want to miss this exciting opportunity to meet Lindsay!
REPO! The Genetic Opera
January 30, 2012
Repo! will be performed as a shadowcast on Saturday by Amber Does Dallas. The performance will take place on the Chinaberry stage. "In the year 2056 - the not so distant future - an epidemic of organ failures devastates the planet. Out of the tragedy, a savior emerges: GeneCo, a biotech company that offers organ transplants, for a price. Those who miss their payments are scheduled for repossession and hunted by villainous Repo Men." This is a freeperformance for All-Con attendees. Due to the theme and content, no convention attendee under 17 will be allowed into the performance hall unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. We additionally draw the line at the age of 12 for convention standards.
KiraKira Moe Show - More Maids At All-Con!
January 29, 2012
"Okaerinasaimase goshujinsama, ojousama! We're the KiraKira Moe Show! We're a bunch of energetic maids and hosts who are ready to perform and make you smile! Our interests range from Anime, Jpop, and Kpop to Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Steampunk! We're always on the lookout for new creations in these areas to see if we can put them on stage and bring them to life for our audience members! At All-Con this year, as well as a short stage show, we'll be doing a Maid Cafe Session! A Maid Café is a place for people to come relax and enjoy delicious treats served by company members dressed in Maid and Butler garb straight from Akihabara! During these café sessions, our company members will come and perform the hottest J and Kpop dances for everyone in attendance! We can't wait to see you!"
SECOND SHOWING ADDED: Dr. Horrible's Sing Along Blog
January 28, 2012
Dr. Horrible's Sing Along Blog will be showing in All-Con's "Addison Theater" at the convention hotel on Friday March 16th at 10pm.
If you aren't able to make that showing, the United States of Geekdom has obtained a public performance license for a second showing!
The next morning (Saturday) at 10am the film will be shown again, giving you two opportunities to sing along with Dr. Horrible's beloved blog.
All-Con VIII is the multimedia event that unites fans from diverse interest communities under one roof, for three exhausting days that are just plain fun!
The advertising deadline for the event program is February 25th. Ad prices range from a $10 "Shout Out" to a $100 full-page ad. If you have a message you would like to directly reach thousands in the fandom community, the All-Con event program is an affordable, ideal solution. Ad sizes and details can be found using the link at the left, or by clicking here.
Early To All-Con? Thursday Night Ice Breaker!
January 26, 2012
It's Thursday night. All-Con does not start until Friday morning. You are hanging around the hotel with nothing to do. Or are you?
If you are at All-Con then you probably have some kind of costume with you, right? Or if not a costume you are undoubtedly a fun and creative person. Why not put that talent to the test by becoming a contestant in Buzzed Off! Think if it as something akin to the Gong Show, but with buzzers rather than a gong. If your performance pleases our panel of judges then they award you points. If even one of them doesn’t like your act... well you will get BUZZED OFF!
Almost anything goes. Stand up comedy! Musical numbers! Skits! Dance routines! Goofiness! Please keep your act clean (there might be kids present) and keep it brief (not more than three minutes in length). All ages are welcome. All talent levels are welcome! No pre-registration is required, just show up and be a part of the show. You don’t even have to have something pre-planned! If you get inspired by the show, hop up and join the contestant pool!
Your host will meet with you for a moment or two before you go on "stage" then the spotlight is on you and your act. Will you woo the judges or will you get the big buzz? Either way, stick around and enjoy the show and see who else gets Buzzed Off! Who knows? You might just win the "big prize"!
Buzzed Off will open to contestants at 9:45 PM in the Oak Ballroom (you will be on the bigstage!) and the show will begin no later than 10 PM. Late arrivals will be admitted on a first come, first up basis after the initial acts have all had their time on stage. Cut off for contestants is 11:45 PM with the show final scores and prize presentation no later than the stroke of midnight!
Zombie Apocalypse... At All-Con!
January 25, 2012
ZOMBIE MANOR is one of the region’s TOP RATED Halloween attractions as voted by Hauntworld. They provide interactive entertainment and movie quality set dressing for tradeshows, film premieres, corporate events and private parties in addition to hosting film screenings and competitions. As experts on the walking dead, they are bringing their worldly experience to All-Con! Watch for them at "Blending in with the Walking Dead", "All-Con's Top Zombie", and (just in time for the Apocalypse Ball!) Zombie Manor Make-Up Parlor Saturday night.
Stop "Looking In" and Become an "Insider"
January 24, 2012
Becoming a member on one of the All-Con organizational committees is really cool, but not always the best place to get your feet wet. To meet the All-Con staff up close and learn how the convention runs behind-the-scenes, most people start as a convention volunteer. If you think that volunteering is a thankless job, then you've never been an All-Con volunteer! Volunteers can win free swag and get fed at a special appreciation event exclusively for them. Volunteers can even earn free badges for the following year. If you want to be noticed at the convention for your excellence, or work along side staff, or meet new friends, then click here and check out the volunteers page. It's a decision you may celebrate for many years to come.
You Can Be A Part of All-Con 2012!
January 23, 2012
The available time slots and panel rooms are dwindling as the convention draws near. If you are part of a performance troupe or have panel content you would like to present at All-Con 2012, there is only one month left for panelist application forms. Late night and overnight will get preferentialconsideration, although there are a few daytime slots
open. (Please read over the current schedule as content duplicating existing topics won't be considered... find a new twist to the subject before submitting.) We're looking forward to seeing what you come up with for this year! The online application can be filled out by clicking here.
Voice Actress Cherami Leigh Coming To See You At All-Con
January 22, 2012
Cherami is well known for her roles as Patty Thompson (Soul Eater), Natsumi (Sgt. Frog), and Liectenstein (Hetalia). She is now expanding her repertoire with the portrayal of Robyn Goode - the athletic new girl in Throwing Stones the teen horror web series. Quickly garnering attention as a new scream queen based on her acclaimed performances in Stones Season 2, Cherami Leigh is also an associate producer on the series.
Meet Writer / Director Jon Keeyes at All-Con!
January 21, 2012
Popular indie horror favorite Jon Keeyes is a director, writer, and producer who's known for the acclaimed slasher Suburban Nightmare and American Nightmare. Keeyes' films have included actors David Carradine (Kill Bill), Dominique Swain (Alpha Dog), Michael Madsen (Reservoir Dogs), Arnold Vosloo (Mummy franchise), Edward Furlong (Terminator) and more. Jon Keeyes took over the director's chair for Season 2 of Throwing Stones.
UNT Improv: Laugh All The Way To The World's End!
January 20, 2012
Need a laugh break? UNT Improv will be performing throughout the All-Con weekend! UNT Improv will also entertaining con attendees throughout the Cosplay Contest!
Heirs to the throne of Santa Anna, god of Improv, these stalwart heroes endeavor to bring joy and laughter to an otherwise dark and grim world.
Blessed souls embracing the purest form of art.
A ragtag group of kids from broken homes performing improv comedy to stay off the streets. Gang violence may still exist, but when they're on stage, they don't have to be a part of it.
They are UNT Improv.
Shout Out to Friends or Promote Your Page!
January 19, 2012
Your last words, faithfully documented in print for the End of the World in All-Con's official event program.
Shout Out to friends. Promote your blog. Send a message. All entries must be suitable for general family audiences and meet convention standards. Up to 100 characters for $11.24.
Not going to All-Con? Still not a problem! Program shouts aren't tied to badge or table purchases. They're a great way to reach convention attendees if you cannot be there in person.
There is no limit to the number of shouts, so don't delay. Midnight on February 25th, 2012 is the deadline to get your shout out. After that, all will go quiet, until All-Con. Click Here to begin.
ZOMBIE Costume Contest
January 18, 2012
Zombie Wrangler Cooter and 4 of the walking dead from ZOMBIE MANOR will provide interactive banter and hilarious entertainment judging the Dallas All-Con zombie costume contest in conjunction with the United States of Geekdom team. Our panel of UNDEAD judges will display flashcards displaying 1-5 BRAINS for their favorite zombie character. Cooter provides interactive comedic elements to keep both the zombies and contestants in check. ZOMBIE MANOR will also provide FREE TICKETS and prizes to costume contest winners.
Petition Vultan To Return
January 17, 2012
The top pick of All-Con TV for 2011 was the original short: "All-Con's Guide to Con-Etiquette" starring Vultan. You remember, the opening starts: "Meet Vultan. This is his first time being at All-Con. He's here for truth and fun and also for his first time..." Vultan learned some very important tips for attending his first convention:
Be mindful of what is around you
Obey Con Staff and Security
Shower and/or bathe
Costume critique
Don't touch without asking
Eat!
Sleep!
Drink responsibly (21+)
No weapons
Several people have asked for a follow-up video. Vultan isn't sure what he should learn next since this will be his second convention. Have an idea? Send it to Vultan@All-Con.org. If he gets enough ideas, he might just do a 2012 video!
Join The Crew... Artemis: Spaceship Bridge Simulator
January 16, 2012
Artemis simulates a spaceship bridge. One computer runs the simulation and the "main screen", while the others serve as workstations for the normal jobs a bridge officer might do, like Helm, Communication, Engineering, and Weapon Control.
Artemis is a social multiplayer, multi-computer networked game where several players are together in one room ("bridge") , and while they all work together, one player plays the Captain, a person who sits in the middle, doesn't have a workstation, and commands the crew.
It's All Fun and Games With Game Shows at All-Con!
January 15, 2012
The always popular Game Show track is back for All-Con 2012 with some great returning favorites. Ever since the second year of All-Con there have been game shows of one kind or another. These shows are as much fun for the audience as they are for the contestants. And with the variety of shows being presented this year there truly is something for everyone!
The All-Con Games and Theory Department (the game show track) and the anime track are each presenting a variety of shows this year. From different incarnations of Anime Jeopardy to the return of JediCole’s Prize Pile there will be plenty of options for game show fans. Be sure to show up early to have a chance at becoming a contestant to win some great prizes.
Games and Theory 2012 Game Shows:
A.D.D. The Game
Beat the USG
Buzzed Off (Thursday night only)
Don’t Lose Your Geek Card
Don’t Lose Your Geek Card: Comic Book Edition
Fandom at Random Password
JediCole’s Prize Pile
Anime 2012 Game Shows:
Anime Jeopardy Expert Edition
Anime Jeopardy Novice Edition
Naked Bacon
Star Trek Jeopardy
What will you choose to do at All-Con? Consider this year’s variety of game shows to enhance your convention experience!
TITAN Comics Has Moved
January 14, 2012
The one and only location where you can go and buy All-Con tickets in person prior to the convention is TITAN Comics in Dallas, Texas. For the faithful All-Con community who buy their tickets in advance at TITANS, they have moved to a new location! After eleven long years at their former home, TITANS is now located at 3128 Forest Lane, Suite 212, Dallas, TX 75234. Their phone number has stayed the same: (214) 350-4420.
Want to know more about the TITAN Comics move?? Film producer Todd Kent documented the process from start to finish in his short film, "How To Move A Comic Book Store" which will be showing in the Addison theater at All-Con on Friday night!
So stop by or call TITAN Comics for your All-Con 2012 tickets and then at the convention make time to watch Todd's behind-the-scenes film on the ordeal of a really quick move of a long-time established comic book store. Both are worth your time, and are no trouble at all.
Does Your Area Need Better Coverage?
January 13, 2012
All-Con mails out over 10,000 postcards annually. (That really adds up 29 cents at a time!)
If you've got a local comic book store, hobby shop, club, or event who will either hand out our postcards or put them on their counter, please send us their information or address and we'll get a bundle of postcards sent right out to them! info@all-con.net
We appreciate all of the assistance and insights you offer, keeping All-Con at it's very finest.
ALL-CON IS YOUR COMMUNITY. Thank you for helping us to promote it.
2012 Burlesque Performers Announced
January 13, 2012
For one hour on Saturday night the Oak Ballroom changes over to a format not typically seen at fandom culture conventions. At 10:00, after the costume competition, All-Con presents burlesque on the Oak stage.
If you're 18 or over with i.d., there's no way you're going to want to miss out on these moves. Advanced seating is available for $20. (Number of advanced seats is limited.) This is otherwise a FREE performance open to all All-Con attendees of age, while any remaining seats last.
In 2010 La Divina Burlesque took over as the professional booking agent for the burlesque performance at All-Con.
Diamond Jim is entrusted with the task of putting together a tasteful performance certain to leave every member of the audience satisfied that the art of burlesque is alive and well.
2012 attendees will be treated to routines by La Divina, Black Mariah, Donna Denise, Blaze, and Lula Houp-Garou!
Meet "Throwing Stones" Cast and Crew
January 12, 2012
THROWING STONES, the award winning teen horror drama about students sent to Saturday School to learn a lesson has become one of the most watched series on the Internet ever since MTV producers fell in love with the series and began posting episodes on their Facebook pages. The series can be found on KoldCast TV, Mingle Media TV, and the iThentic Network.
Whereas the first season was about getting to know the students at Blair High while focusing more on the psychological elements, the second season moves into full slasher mode. After finally coming together to overcome their differences, the students of Blair High are violently separated and forced to follow Mr. Beckett's new set of rules. One by one he challenges each student's will to live as he pushes his Broken Window Theory to the test. Their objective is to survive. Popular indie horror director Jon Keeyes (Suburban Nightmare, American Nightmare) came on to direct the second season.
Several principle cast members and crew are coming to All-Con! For specific information including days and times of appearances, please keep an eye on our Guests page.
Vendor Room and Exhibitor Halls: SOLD OUT
January 11, 2012
Once again, All-Con has filled our Vendor Room and Exhibit Hall! Today we start the stand-by list. To get on the list, email your name, whether you want to stand by for an exhibitor table or a vendor booth, and a contact phone number to: Vendors@all-con.net.
We are still accepting artists for the Art Show, and advertising for the event program.
Superhero Make and Take Masks For Everyone!
January 11, 2012
It's a bird! It's a plane! No, it's your favorite feline, PurrKayla!
Kids of all ages are invited to stop by her Free Make and Take Superhero Mask area! It's the purrfect way to bring out your inner superhero!
Be a hero for the ferals and receive a free prize when you donate to KittiCo Cat Rescue at PurrKayla's table too!
Troy Denning Signing STAR WARS: APOCALYPSE At All-Con
January 10, 2012
Star Wars Fate of the Jedi is a nine book all-hardback series set two years after the events in the Legacy of the Force series. Star Wars: APOCALYPSE is the final book of the series. The book's official release date is March 13, 2012 and the author, Troy Denning, will be at All-Con signing your copies on March 17-18!
Mr. Denning is the New York Times bestselling author of over 30 fantasty and sci-fi novels, including Star Wars: Tatooine Ghost, Star Wars: The New Jedi Order: Star by Star, Star Wars: Abyss, Star Wars: Vortex, as well as Waterdeep, Pages of Pain, Beyond the High Road, The Summoning, and many others.
Also known as Richard Awlinson, He is a former game designer. The majority of his published writing has been fiction set in the Dungeons and Dragons settings of Dark Sun and Forgotten Realms.
There will be a very limited supply of books on hand for Mr. Denning to sign. Due to high demand, we recommend you purchase copies from your local book store in advance. Star Wars: Apocalypse is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com.
Costumers! Take a Walk on the Catwalk!
January 9, 2012
Costumers and costume curious, welcome! The Costume Catwalk is the informal show-and-tell where attendees get to model their finest costume creations and then 'pull back the curtain' to explain the details, materials, and skills behind their wonderful works. Part fashion show, part discussion panel, the Catwalk is a favorite whether you're showing, or telling. Costumers for the Catwalk are walk-up only. No pre-registration required, just a desire to give back to the community and to learn some inside tips from others who share your passion.
The catwalk is Sunday morning, after you've had the chance to show off and see fine costuming at the Saturday night Costume Competition.
Celebrity Guest: Micah Solusod
January 8, 2012
Micah Solusod is a voice actor in the world of anime. He first appeared in 2009 as an additional voice and madehis debut role as Malek Werner in Blassreiter later that year.
Since then, Micah has been honored to provide voices for a number of characters in other FUNimation titles such as Soul Evans in Soul Eater, Tsutomu Senkawa in Birdy the Mighty: Decode, Kamui and Subaru in Tsubasa Tokyo Revelations, Haruki Hishida in Rideback, Ushijima Hiroshige in Corpse
Princess, and more. He can also be heard in the murder mystery game series Jisei as Naoki Mizutani.
When Micah isn't trapped in a dark padded room he works as a freelance artist and dabbles in music and video games. Bio cited from Anime News Network.
Cosplay Guest: Amaya De'Morte
January 7, 2012
Amaya De'Morte first began making her own costumes in 2004 when her mother told her that she'd no longer tackle the insane projects Amaya came up with. After that, there was no looking back and costumes were created in everything from moving cars to late night parties at the conventions themselves.
Through the years she has done everything from Sci-fi to Fantasy and Comics to Steampunk and all the inbetweens possible. A recent graduate of the University of North Texas with a BFA in Fashion design, her love of costumes has only doubled since then and sparked the
creation of a custom wear and alternative fashion design house - Melancholic. Amaya has been attending All-Con every year since All-Con II in 2006. Photography by SkyPirate, A.L.P. Photography, and thirdeye studios.
A Great New Genre Has Arrived!
January 6, 2012
Do you love movies such as Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow, The Thin Man, The Shadow, Chinatown and The Big Sleep? Do you love Swing Music, Big Band, and Jazz? Is your favorite hat a fedora? Do you love Art Deco, the Golden Age of Radio and vintage cars?
Then you just might be a Dieselpunk.
Dieselpunk can best be defined as a subculture and a genre of art blending the aesthetics of the 1920s through the early 1950s with today. The goal of dieselpunk is to create something unexpected and new by merging the zeitgeist of the past with today’s technology and attitude.
North Texas Dieselpunks is an organization established to bring together individuals who want to share their love of that Golden Era and keeping it as a living, breathing part of the culture.
Watch for their exhibit and discussion panels at All-Con in March. Can't wait for All-Con? Their first meeting of the new year is January 14, 2012 from 6 pm to 8 pm in the banquet room at Spring Creek Barbeque, 12835 Preston Road at LBJ Freeway, Dallas, TX 75230. Details can be found on their main website: here. At the meeting, make sure to tell them how excited you are that they're part of All-Con this year!
DVD and Game Drive
January 5, 2012
Troops from the 501st Star Garrison went to Children's Medical Center of Dallas and found out that the hospital is really in need of new and used DVDs and video games. In Star Garrison style, they decided to do a DVD/game drive at All-Con. Please bring any used unwanted DVD's and video games to All-Con to be given to the Children's Medical Center of Dallas. (Of course, new movies & games are welcome also.) With blu-ray on the rise, this is an excellent and worthwhile time to trim down your collection, ridding yourself of the discs you're going to re-buy in high-definition.
Donated items should be taken to the 501st's table in the exhibit hall. Here are some examples of what the medical center is needing.
Young children:
Elmo
Dora
Word World
Sesame Street
Disney/Pixar
Shrek
Nick Jr shows
Tweens:
iCarley
Hannah Montana
Suite Life of Zack & Cody
The Clone Wars
GI Joe
Teens: (up to PG-13)
Twilight series
Indiana Jones
Star Wars
Iron Man
Star Trek
Spider-Man
Video Games: (rated E-Teen)
Nintendo DS
PSP
X-Box
X-Box 360
PS
Wii
Games Systems
Texas Hold'Em Poker Tournament
January 4, 2012
All-Con is hosting a friendly Texas Hold’em Poker tournament! The winner will receive a snazzy trophy, with medals for runner-up players! The straight-faced action takes place in the Elm panel room on Saturday night at 11pm until the final hand is played. There is no buy-in. This casual tournament is absolutely free to anybody aged 18 and up attending All-Con who would enjoy pulling up a chair and trying their hand at Texas Hold’Em poker. Deatils and house rules can be found here.
Dollfie and Doll Costume Competition
January 3, 2012
Finally, a costume contest for serious dolls and their collectors! The community was embraced by All-Con in 2007 and the doll content has expanded every year.
Saturday afternoon at the convention, dolls of every scale will be competing in the annual Doll-Con at All-Con Costume Competition!
The rules are simple and the competion fierce (but friendly)! The theme of the contest follows All-Con's annual theme and prizes will be awarded for top entries in three categories: Cosplay, Original Design, and Craftsmanship.
Details, rules, and the entry form may all be found on the "Doll-Con" page.
Sandy Kochenower is a well respected name in convention Art Show circles. She is involved in managing most of them at Dallas area fandom conventions, and has been for enough years to be a well honed veteran - ensuring ideal conditions are met for displaying artists, hosting events, and the interested and educated public.
The 2012 All-Con Artshow forms are now online and available for download. Sandy has streamlined the forms from previous years, simplifying their layout while maintaining the strict standards that artists are used to. Space has filled up fast, but there are a couple of panels and tables left. Artists should email Sandy directly before sending in art.
For the public, the art show is on the first floor during the convention, in the Willow. No badge is required to peruse the gallery and buy the art. Saturday evening at 5pm unsold art will be put up for live auction in the Palm. For complete details you should consult the Art Show page and the convention schedule.
Please LIKE All-Con on FaceBook
December 31, 2011
We work hard every year to stay in touch with you, because we believe in All-Con and love sharing with you behind-the-scenes information as the convention is built each year. Every day from January 1st through the first day of the convention, we'll be posting a new blog entry with a different focus on the convention. If you're a member of FaceBook and LIKE our page, you'll get the news each day without having to go looking for it. Most of all, please be our friend because we like you too. We really do. Thank you for choosing All-Con.
24-Hour Endurance 1,000 Anime Song Medley
December 30, 2011
Starring Otakuzake (Keisaku Kimura & Kazushi Hinoki) March 17-18, 2012, in the Addison Theater at All-Con!
Japan's ultimate event for anime otaku was made to hit in America! The 24-Hour Endurance 1,000 Anime Song Medley was the talk of All-Con 2011, and they're powering up for an unforgettable return in 2012!
Celebrating its 18th year, the 24-Hour Endurance 1,000 Anime Song Medley is a nonstop show of anime and tokusatsu titles, scenes, and rarities, collected and presented on a theater-sized screen by the deeply knowledgable--and very funny!--Keisaku Kimura and Kazushi Hinoki. At their shows in Japan the duo is known as "Otakuzake," but here they go by what that means in English: they're the Fanboy Booze Brothers!
You can read all of the details by checking the All-Con feature page here.
Airship Isabella Raid On All-Con
December 29, 2011
"The Airship Isabella is a mercenary ship for hire. Through the use of steam powered generators, augmented by a mysterious essence known only as Aether, the crew travels from dimension to dimension, from time to time, completing jobs, causing a ruckus, and "collecting" goods from each individual world. The crew consists of many a rag-tag personality, but together with their sister ship, The Neo Dulcimer: They make a family."
Tonight we made contact with the Isabella via Amelia Whittaker, the airship's navigator. From Amelia: "I have had the occasion to plot a course over the landmass you call "Texas”. As such, our glorious Sir Captain Cedric 'Greyhawk' Whittaker has given the crew invasion orde---err....shore leave to your location."
All-Con is ready to receive crew of the Isabella for our convention in March. For anybody who will be attending their panels and performances, whatever you do, DO NOT let them know that we're at the end of the world. No doubt they would find a way to make an advantage of the situation.
If you haven't made solid New Years Eve plans yet, you should consider meeting up with the airship Isabella in Fort Worth where they are attending the The Difference of Engines World Conference, a 3-day steampunk convention over the New Years Eve weekend. The Marquis of Vaudville who headlined All-Con's Steampunk Ball last year will be performing; an occasion not to be missed!
Neil Kaplan Named Celeb M.C. for 2012
December 29, 2011
One of the most recognized voices in entertainment, Neil Kaplan has had notable voice roles as Hawkmon (Digimon), Optimus Prime (Transformers), Gorilla Grodd (Justice League Heroes), Genshin (Ninja Gaiden II), Diabolico (Power Rangers Lightspeed Rescue), Kraven the Hunter (Spider-Man 3-video game), Tychus Findlay (StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty-video game).
He has also had acted in popular anime and video game titles including Bleach, Digimon Data Squad, Blue Dragon, Zatch Bell!, Naruto, Kosetsu Hyaku Monogatari, Final Fantasy XIII, EverQuest II: Kingdom of Sky,
Medal of Honor: European Assault, Star Wars: The Old Republic, and many others.
So why a 'Celebrity M.C.' and not a 'Media Guest'? Neil is dedicated to finding ways to give back to communities and worthwhile charities. His participation at All-Con is going to go far beyond sitting at a table and chatting with fans. Watch for him to orchestrating his magic throughout the convention all weekend, teaching us all how we too can make a difference in the world... just in case it isn't really the end of the world.
Check Out The All-Con Schedule!
December 23, 2011
We're still almost 90 days away from the convention and the schedule is filling in nicely! Several of the most popular acts are returning from last year, including Cut Thrust And Run, Carnival Epsilon, and Damsels of Dorkington.
We'll remind you again closer to the event, but don't forget to check out the schedule thouroughly before you come. There are lots of interactive events you'll want to bring your own stuff to participate with.
There are fabric swaps, pattern swaps, a general swap meet, Japanese animation cell discussions, a costume catwalk, knitting circles, an Asian ball joined doll mini-con with contest, and more content being added all the time which will be more rich and personal if you're prepared to participate.
When you're done looking through the schedule, you can also read descriptions of all the activities on the Panels and Workshops page. We're going to have over 200 events in three short days this year. We've added on three more rooms for content so the selection is going to be even more diverse than ever. With over 200 events, what will you choose to do at All-Con?
ALL-CON Wants To Know...
December 22, 2011
If you're a member of FaceBook, All-Con has asked the question, "How Will The World End This Year at All-Con 2012?". To join in our fun survey, click here (link goes directly to FaceBook question).
Ten Days Left To Save
December 21, 2011
If somebody needs a last minute gift idea for you, or you need something really cool and affordable to give to somebody else, why not a ticket to All-Con? It's also a great way to invest your holiday cash before the advance purchase discount expires!
Buy online before midnight (Central time) on December 31st and you get ALL THREE DAYS entry to All-Con for $35! That's more than than 12% off from the price at the door!
That's less than $12 a day for all of the panels, workshops, contests, gameshows, and performances you can fit into a day.
Click Here to get your tickets now. You can even pay with PayPal if that's your preference.
Damsels of Dorkington Return
December 19, 2011
Hi, All-Con!
I'm so sorry about the delayed reply. We like to regroup at the end of the year, and figure out what our plan is going forward. We had our end of year meeting last night, and we've started putting together a new show for 2012!
All-Con is one of our top conventions from 2011, and we would be thrilled to return! I know we had discussed coming in for Friday as well in 2012, and I think that's still the plan for us.
We'd love to have a show on Saturday night again, preferably earlier in the evening. And we can always do a panel at some point if you'd like us to.
Thank you for being such an amazingly organized convention!
~Blythe
The Damsels of Dorkington
ZOMBIES, CTHULU ... and Steve Jackson Games
October 25, 2011
2012 is the End of the World, and to many people it's a signal of the coming of the Zombie Apocalypse. Steve Jackson Games has been added to the convention schedule with their unique blend of apocalyptic games: Zombie Dice, Zombie Munchkin, GURPS Post Apocalypse Zombie LARP Game, and for those who favor destruction by Cthulu, the always favorite Cthulu Dice Game. Never played these games? No problem! Their description reads: "beginners welcome and prizes (provided by Steve Jackson Games) will be handed out." Want to know more about Steve Jackson Games? Click the banner above to visit their website.
When the World Comes To An End All You Can Do Is...CUT THRUST AND RUN!
October 23, 2011
Can there be such a thing as an 'end of the world survivor'?? This group of gents has already proven that given three short minutes of notice, they can pull anything off! (Let's hope that they don't have to... again.) Their reputation preceeds them, so before we give too much more away, we'd like for you to know that they have their own Steampunk costume event in Venus, Texas (that's south, south metroplex) on Saturday November the 5th. Check them out and you'll get be hooked! Click Here for their event info, and make sure to let them know that you're looking forward to seeing them at All-Con!
NEW! Event Program "Shout Out"
October 14, 2011
Your last words, faithfully documented in print for the End of the World in All-Con's official event program.
Shout Out to friends. Promote your blog. Send a message. All entries must be suitable for general family audiences and meet convention standards. Up to 100 characters for $11.24.
There is no limit to the number of shouts, so don't delay. Midnight on February 25th, 2012 is the deadline to get your shout out. After that, all will go quiet, until All-Con. Click Here to begin.
The World Will End and Roller Derby Will Be There.
October 13, 2011
Caution: Roller Derby zombie girls will double-tap back!
Assassination City Women's Roller Derby is riding the train all the way to the end of the line. As All-Con braces for the end of the world, the derby girls are just getting warmed up for the highlights reel. Watch for them at All-Con as they pose for photos, answer questions, and challenge their audiences in between demonstrations of mighty roller derby feats of speed, strength, endurance... and impact.
All-Con may only be 154 days away, but for those who cannot wait to see the ladies in action, Assassination City Roller Derby has some high-intensity action in store for you as their All-Star Team, Special Ops, enters its season. These bouts will be at Dad's Broadway Skateland in the off-season--double header "throw back" bouts with the old school feeling that the fans love -- B.Y.O. chair and intimate rink setting! Saturday October 22nd in Mesquite, TX. Click Here for information and tickets. League information is always available at www.ACDerby.com.
The Name Says It All.
October 12, 2011
The response was overwhelming last year; the rooms were packed. The Basics of Mold Making and Resin Casting was regarded by some as one of the best panels at All-Con. This panel will discuss the basics of how to create a mold of an item and then reproduce it in polyurethane resin. Techniques and tools of the trade will be examined along with an in-panel hands-on demonstration where a resin prop will be molded and reproduced to show everyone just how it is done.
Get a Kit. Make a Plan. Be Prepared.
October 11, 2011
There are all kinds of emergencies out there that we can prepare for. Take a zombie apocalypse for example. That’s right, I said z-o-m-b-i-e a-p-o-c-a-l-y-p-s-e. You may laugh now, but when it happens you’ll be happy you read this, and hey, maybe you’ll even learn a thing or two... (click graphic above)
Mini Comic Creation Lab
October 10, 2011
All-Con, the Dallas convention who breaks the mold by including so many fan communities, has received word that Frank Anderson Jr. will be returning to lead the production on our Official convention mini-comic!
He's got the stylus', the pads, the theme ... everything he needs -- except a staff of artists! That's where *you* come in. Saturday morning the mini comics must be off the press and on the Freebie Table at the convention. Mr. Anderson Jr. will be leading the production workshop Friday evening from 6pm to 8pm.
No matter what the degree of your artistic abilities from "No" to "Pro", you will get to work with Mr. Anderson Jr. to develop an artistic style to implement on your very own page of the official comic. Impress your friends. Impress yourself!
Most people can sing, given the correct vocal coach. Frank will show you that even people who shouldn't sing can draw and he's available to coach you at the workshop. A common theme will hold the comic together; a theme which Mr. Anderson Jr. won't be revealing until the workshop begins.
Sharpen up your pencils, practice doodling ovals and glass boxes, and make sure you're at All-Con in plenty of time Friday evening to be a part of this official 2012 All-Con publication.
Cool Title! What Is It?
October 9, 2011
Panel organizers are really brilliant when they come up with the ultimate title, certain to pack a room with people interested in their topic. The word play can occasionally be a bit much, obscuring what topics might actually be covered. At the convention, all of the panel descriptions are printed in the event program. If you want to start planning
your activities early, the descriptions can also be found on the website. On left navigation pane to the left, under the heading 'Confirmed for 2012' you can select "Panels and Workshops" and you'll be taken to a page that shows verbose listings for all of the events, discussion panels, features, workshops, demonstrations, performances, and competitions that have been confirmed so far. Enjoy!
End The World With A Litle Bit Of Fun
October 7, 2011
All-Con 2012 is celebrating the end of the world in 2012. What better way to put a smile on the faces of zombies, road warriors, and disaster victims than to enjoy a good carnival? Carnival Epsilon has added All-Con to their 2012 national "All Wound Up" tour! They will be appearing throughout the weekend with different acts. Make sure you add them to your list of 'must see and do' while at All-Con!
October - Time To Start Counting Down!
October 6, 2011
Fall has arrived. Before yoo know it the holidays well be here, then the new year, and then All-Con! October is very special to us because up until this very special month, we continue to build up the convention in the background (developing marketing, travelling to other cons to look for new ideas, introducing ourselves to different groups, etc.) In October we're close enough to start posting website updates with confirmed content! We're only five short months away from the convention (have you planned the costumes you're going to make yet???) and we've already got more than 50 events, discussion panels, workshops, competitions and performances on the 2012 schedule. If you're planning on providing content or featuring an event this year, you'd better get your application submitted soon. Event Badges are still only $35 for the whole weekend through December 31st. Don't wait though. If you forget, you'll miss out on the advance discount. And finally, the hotel has given us the All-Con 2012 discount code. Make sure when you reserve your room you tell them "LLC" and you'll get a much better price. They love All-Con and we enjoy presenting the event for you!
The Wait Is Over... Just In Time!
June 13, 2011
The t-shirts have arrived, and it's still June!
The early advance badge prices for All-Con are only $30 through the end of the month, and when you order your t-shirt we'll ship it to you free!
You don't have to wait for All-Con to show off your fantastic shirt with our 2012 themed art... THE END OF THE WORLD.
With the end of the world coming, now is the time to load up on your All-Con gear and get it at the lowest price of the year!
If you sent us email from April 25th through today (May 7) which includes questions, panelist forms, etc. we did not recive it. There was an error with the mail server which had gone undetected. Please send them again and accept our apologies. All badge registrations and table reservations are handled through EventBright and they were properly stored, so if you sent payment via online service, you're just fine. :)
We're Not Fooling! Welcome to April.
April 1, 2011
At All-Con we take our committment to communication very seriously. Some people like to just show up in March and have a grand time, while others prefer the action and details in the building of the convention every year.
As you can see, we're 50 weeks away from the next convention and we've already posted our preliminary schedule. It's really, really empty for now. Very soon through we'll be sifting through panelist applications, deciding who's in, who's on stand-by, and who might not be a good fit for this year. We invite you to continue to watch us here and on FaceBook so that you can have a bit of All-Con all year long.
95% of the website is now live, so don't hesitate to have a look around!
Don't Touch That Dial!
March 26, 2011
We're still rebuilding the website for 2012. Trying to use any of the links on the nav panel at the left will just take you to a dead end. We should be fully operational within a week. The website is update up-to-the-minute all year long, so don't stay away for months at a time! Form All-Con watching parties! Try to guess when we're going to announce our first guest! Have some fun! Keep All-Con in your heart all year. We think about all of you often and try to find ways to make your smile even broader. Keep those suggestions coming in!!! This is the best time to tell us what you like about All-Con, what you would like to see more of, and what you like to see added.
Introduction for All-Con 2012
March 21, 2011
2012 will be All-Con's eighth year as a multi-media fan culture convention in Dallas, Texas. 2012 is a very special year for us as, well... it's said to be the last year of the Earth as we know it. Scientifically, there is the galactic alignment / Cardinal Cross combined with increased solar (flare) activity. Metaphysically, the Chinese "I Ching", Mayan calendar, and Hopi prophecy all show 2012 to be the end of (a) time.
So, hey! Who are we to argue? The 2012 convention theme is: "END OF THE WORLD". Whether you're into the coming of a savior, total destruction by natural forces, nuclear holocaust, next-age-dawning, arrival of the aliens, or the always feared Zombie Apocalypse, plan to attend All-Con and be a part of the fun! C'mon, smile. It isn't like it's the end of the world or anything... (is it)?
