GAME OF THRONES
The main focus of TitanCon is the celebration of the prolific Game of Thrones phenomenon. Both the books by George R.R. Martin and the HBO adaptation are discussed on panels. Guests are also invited to take part in cool GoT inspired craft sessions and photo/signing opportunities are available with the stars of the show.
Being a huge fan of both the books and the show myself I was giddy with excitement going into The Green Room. Everyone was really friendly, warm and welcoming. I was over the moon to sip coffee with Ian McElhinney (Barristan Selmy in the series), Ron Donachie (Rodrick Cassel), Luke Barnes (Rast) and Aimee Richardson (Princess Myrcella Barethon). I will be very interested to see Aimee on screens in the future. She is definitely an engaging and exciting local talent to keep an eye on.
Aside from the whole Game of Thrones aspect there is a whole lot of other interesting things at the event. Crafters selling wares, gaming, artists, musicians, Cosplay and of course the literary panels.
LITERARY PANELS
Being first and foremost an avid horror fan I was really looking forward to meeting Adam Nevill. I was not disappointed. This guy has it in spades without question. Not only a great writing talent but he brought a perspective to the panel that was both informed and thoroughly insightful. I was very excited to pick up a copy of Apartment 16 and The Ritual. I am now eagerly anticipating getting my hands on House of Small Shadows upon publication.
Prolific SF writer Ian McDonald also brought a wealth of intelligent discourse to the proceedings and I am glad to have come into contact with such an enthusiastic and open guy. His private words of encouragement really meant a lot to me and have proven extremely inspirational.There were three of us present that are just at the very beginning of our writing careers. A varied group of "newbies" as it were. Laurence Donaghy, Kenneth Gregory and myself. Topics discussed included the process of getting published, writing families, conflict and resolution issues and blending genres. I found the blending genres discussion very interesting in relation to the different beliefs on how far that technique can go. Each discussion was moderated brilliantly.
SUMMARY
I can honestly easy it was a pleasure to be invited to a convention with such warm and friendly organisers. The crew that pulled it all together are a phenomenal team. The success can be clearly seen as TitanCon 2014 has already been confirmed as going ahead. All I can say is well done guys. If you keep building upon the success of this professional convention soon all shall hear you roar!
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| Jim Corr Photography - www.jimcorrphotography.com |
