TeslaCon Policies & FAQ’S
TeslaCon Policies
Passports must be shown at all times or immediately produced upon request from convention personnel. Please have your passport readily available if you are entering a convention area so you don’t hold up others while trying to find your passport on your person or digging through your satchel. You will not be allowed to participate in an event or allowed entry into any convention area without your passport.
If you lose your passport, please contact TeslaCon Registration staff immediately. We’ll give you a new one (and only one!) for a $5.00 replacement fee.
Single day passports are only valid on the stated day – no exceptions.
We can’t offer refunds on memberships. We can, however, transfer pre-registered memberships to next year’s convention or to another person for free.
Please contact our desk staff before passing out any fliers or promotional materials at the convention.
TeslaCon Security Team Members will monitor the convention area throughout the weekend. However, please be aware that TeslaCon and its personnel are not responsible or liable for any loss of items, personal property, or sanity by any attendee or vendor. However, if you do have a problem, please let us know immediately and we will do our best to track down your merchandise if at all possible.
Any person(s) found stealing will be detained and the police will be notified.
TeslaCon reserves the right to have any person(s) removed from the convention/hotel for any reason.
All TeslaCon Attendees shall indemnify and hold harmless TeslaCon, its affiliated corporations and their respective officers, directors, shareholders, agents, representatives and employees from and against any and all costs and expenses, damages, claims, suits, actions, liabilities, losses and judgments including, without limitation, attorney’s fees and legal expenses, based on, arising out of or in any way related to or connected with the Convention or any other matter or activity directly or indirectly related to the Convention including, but not limited to, libel, slander, disparagement, defamation, copyright infringement, invasion of privacy, piracy, plagiarism or infringement of any patent, copyright, trademark, trade secret or other intellectual property right of any third party. This obligation shall continue beyond the length of the convention.
FAQ: General
What is TeslaCon?
TeslaCon is the only immersion-themed Steampunk convention in North America. The city of Madison, Wisconsin plays host every year to this event that has a long line of sister conventions preceding it. We may call TeslaCon a convention but, in fact, it is far more than that. To many people TeslaCon has become an experience – a true adventure into the world of neo-Victorian science fiction. With themes from the Wild Weird West and Diesel Punk to Dystopian futures where steam and contraptions inhabit the skies, TeslaCon fills a void where few conventions dare go. Immersion is the central idea behind the convention where we start with an old-fashioned traditional movie that includes credits to the crew who create the comfortable setting for all guests over the entire weekend. Panels and entertainment are handpicked to provide you with the feeling that you are actually in the 1880’s as a participant and not an observer. To add to the feeling of complete immersion we also run a full weekend mystery, complete with murders, espionage and, of course, the old bait and switch when it comes to who the villain truly is. From a formal Tea Room, complete with scones and period baked goods, to our Tinkersmith room, all aspects of the con are crafted and designed for maximum enjoyment.
Does it cost much to create this type of convention?
Yes, it does! Usually you go somewhere and just “go to the con.” What makes this different is that those attending as volunteers and panelists know that this is an immersion experience so we do what we can so you feel as though you are back in 1881 and in a huge submarine for the weekend. There are many props, costumes and specially made contraptions that must work on cue to help us create the atmosphere for the weekend’s voyage.
Many people have volunteered and have given their own time to help create this wonderful event. We are not a HUGE convention though. In order to make this work I can’t have a convention of 2,000 people. Ours is much more cozy and is actually designed to give you an experience – one that I hope you will enjoy and never forget.
The Grande Royale tickets help but, if you wish to contribute something at the front door to help, we are always appreciative of the thought. This is your convention – made for fans of this genre – and we do it because we love it. We simply want you to enjoy yourselves and have fun.
How was the name chosen?
That is a story unto itself. At the very beginning there was a huge problem. What do we call it? SteamCon had picked the ultimate simple name. Other cons did not have short names – The World’s Faire of this or The Great Expo of that. You get the picture. Coming from an advertising background of 20 years I knew there would be more interest in a name if chosen well. So I did the most creative thing I could – I asked one of my closest friends for help. Samantha Rei Crossland had been designing Lolita and neo-Victorian dress for a number of years by this point and I wanted to get her opinion on the matter
In a blink of an eye she got it and said, “Name it after the patron saint of Steampunk fans.” NicolaTesla! So TeslaCon was chosen. Easy to remember and very Steampunk-oriented by nature. It has become not only our symbol but a brand name that makes people feel good. He was a different kind of inventor and, let’s face it, a very untraditional guy all around. So it fits the soul of the convention perfectly. After TeslaCon 1 we did a survey of sites and searches to see how people found us. We discovered over 92% of you simply put the name TeslaCon into the search engine. This proved to us right away that we had picked a winning name.
How do you do a convention like this?
I wanted a convention that was unlike any other and, after attending close to 60 conventions over the years from New York to San Francisco, it was important that whatever I did stood out. I had run other conventions with FilmCon being the longest of them. For over 11 years we ran FilmCon – a media-based film/efx convention where industry artists would gather and show how films were made. From ILM to companies like Raven Software, Pixar and other Hollywood-based firms, their artists attended FilmCon and presented their craft to the members.
It was very different to sit in a room with the creator of Darth Maul while he looked at your portfolio. The fact is no one has ever done anything like it before and I wanted TeslaCon to be the same. I have nothing against the old model convention per se with dealers, panels, t-shirts and the like. But I wanted this convention to stand for something different and better within this new fandom. I wanted people to see that there was more out there than just the norm.
How much does it cost?
January 15-April 30 = $40
May 1-July 31 = $45
August 1-September 30 = $50
October 1-November 5 = $55
General Admission at the Door = $60
All Grand Royale Memberships are SOLD OUT.
TeslaCon has a very simple pricing system. Once you pay that’s it! You do not have to pay for extras. The ball is considered a general event so are all the main programs and panels. The only extra cost is the Tea Room. The cost offsets the food and tea but also raises money for our charity. Some private parties may charge but those are not directly affiliated with our convention.
*All parties and extra activities based at Teslacon, but not run directly by the convention, may have a donation fee or something to help offset costs. TeslaCon is not responsible for these activities or events.
I don’t have a lot of money but would still love to attend. How can I still participate?
We always need help. TeslaCon does not run on good intentions alone. The fact is we would be very helpless without volunteers. This year especially we will need many people helping out in various ways such as stamping passports and helping with small things around the convention. If you would be interested in helping us, and perhaps getting your entry fee reimbursed, please contact us. We will need more people on Friday and Saturday since they are the days most heavily attended.
If you work 18 hours you can have your membership compted. However, you must work in the areas we need assistance in at the time. Please contact us here if you are interested: bobbins@teslacon.org
How old do you have to be to attend TeslaCon?
TeslaCon is open to all ages from 5 to 95. Everyone is invited and the average age of a member is about 32 years old.
However, all attendees are asked to show proof of age when they register and, if you are under 13, you must have a parent or guardian attending the convention with you.
Because there will be parties and celebrations during the weekend we will enforce a strict 21 and over policy for all party goers. This is to ensure that everyone has a safe and fun time aboard the HMS Trident.
What kind of atmosphere should I expect?
TeslaCon was started specifically to get away from the commercial feel and the huge con attitude. We wanted to provide a weekend-long refuge for Steam fans and alike who want to immerse themselves in a world of cogs, dreams and adventure.
Based on our first year expect most participants to be cordial, soft spoken and very polite. Men hold doors open for women, everyone says “Please” and “Thank you.” When you have something to say, everyone takes the time to listen.
At least 98% of attendees come in period dress of some kind or another depending on their particular fandom. You will find the staff very courteous and helpful and, by just asking somebody a question, you will see that social graces are back in style.
There will be more adult programming at night but well over 95% of panels are for all ages. Think of being on a cruise ship where there are plenty of activities to do and a staff that is there to make your journey as pleasant and memorable as possible.
What is your policy on weapons?
Since most fans brandish weapons of some kind or another that are usually created from Nerf guns etc we have a very open policy. If the weapon is in fact a toy you may keep it in the open. If the weapon is based on a real gun, blade or knife we ask that it is peace-bound to a holster or sheath on your person for safety. You may be asked to show your weapon if a security person is wondering if it is a toy or not. They are only doing their job so please remember no one wants an incident and we will respect you but just make commonsense decisions when it has to do with weapons.
Can I wear a costume to the event?
Absolutely. Again this is an immersion convention so of course you can wear a costume. In fact, we encourage period dress and Steampunk/Diesel/Clock attire. Go all out and create a couture collection to wear all weekend or just come modestly with goggles and a vest. It’s entirely up to you but we do ask, because of the theme of the convention, that attendees do not wear jeans and novelty t-shirts.
The convention would never refuse anyone entrance but be aware that many will be in full costume and acting in their personas over the weekend. We want the effect to be as believable as possible.
What if I don’t have a period costume to wear before the convention?
This is why I choose vendors who will be able to help you create and explore the Steam fashion world. There will be many in our Dealers Room with many different looks ranging from Steam to Clock to Diesel design and goggles, hats and jewelry for everyone. Everything will be there and for sale. Come early Friday afternoon and shop aboard our duty-free area.
What is a Grand Royale membership?
This membership category helps us create the world you will enter. The cost is $140 and not only are you helping the convention but you are also getting some very interesting perks. The sad news is that we are SOLD OUT of this ticket category.
Who runs TeslaCon? How can I join?
Various people. Two of the people behind the curtain influence the core decision-making process usually by yelling a lot. We don’t have a staff page because we’re not too big on personal ego stroking (we hire people for that) and just want to run a solid convention. If you really want to meet us head out to a Temple of Steam Tour event or just come to the convention and look for the two people who are either running around barking orders at people or sobbing quietly in the corner – depending on what day of the weekend it is.
I heard that TeslaCon has a theme. What is it?
Yes, TeslaCon’s theme this year is 20,000 Leagues Beneath the Aether. This year we pay homage to THE great Jules Verne and all the adventure he created.
In fact, there are several themes throughout the weekend. The main one, obviously, and then the submarine themes that include stopping in Egypt, an underwater kingdom and sea creatures and, finally, the Far East. Each theme is part of the overall ambiance and still fits within the main theme.
This also makes it easier for people to make costumes and attire. More themes, more choices!
Do you offer one day memberships?
Yes. Though the weekend price is a far better deal! Your passport gets you into everything for one price. ** Remember, however, that the only exception to that is the Tea Room where all profit goes to charity and the two dinners at the Captain’s Table. ** Unlike other conventions where you are asked to pay separate prices for the evening’s entertainment, TeslaCon includes ALL activities in the price of admission.
We would like people to know that by pre-registering it helps in many ways. First, we know exactly how many people will be attending and this helps with planning activities and special panels where handouts are needed. Second, it helps with paying for everything. Recreating the 1880’s is not a cheap affair so, by registering early, not only is it cheaper for you but it also makes it possible for us to afford things that will enhance and contribute towards the weekend. So please pre-register and lock in a cheaper fair aboard the ship!
FAQ: Events
What is there to do at TeslaCon?
Well, to put it simply, a lot! Most conventions run on the same basic premise – panels, parties and one or two main events. What makes TeslaCon so varied and different is we decided to change that out-dated plan so the moment you walk into our convention the adventure begins.
This year you will hear sounds of the ocean and submarine barn where we will launch from. There are sound effects and visual sites all throughout the convention.
Panels, debates, classes and seminars will fill the weekend from Friday until Sunday afternoon. If you like to make things we will have a Tinkersmith room. Care to design a page or two for your scrap book, we have a room for that. Have your photograph taken a hundred different ways in our photography booth. Perhaps you want to relax after several seminars and decided some tea with biscuits is appropriate – you can do that by spending time in our Tea Room. In the evening there are larger events such as Lord and Lady Bobbins’ mummy unwrapping ceremony on Friday and a full traditional Ball on Saturday night complete with dance instructions throughout the weekend.
For those of you who yearn for more we have an interactive murder mystery that takes place through the weekend along with several times when you can experience true immersion aboard the HMS Trident.
We also encourage parties and room activities after 9PM for people to enjoy.
What type of Special Events are there?
Since TeslaCon is an immersion event there are several things going on throughout the weekend: Friday we will have a Mummy Unwrapping, Saturday is the Battle of the Leviathans and Sunday is the Imperial Display. All of these events are immersion and open to all members. There will be limited space so, if you do wish to attend, please arrive early.
The TeslaCon Murder Mystery will be going on all weekend. This is another way to become immersed and part of the period. The main actors will be performing at certain times and places and all members will have a schedule for this event. Again this event is open to everyone.
There are only a few “special events” that require additional funding. The Tea Room costs $10. Once you pay the fee and have your passport stamped with our special Tea Room stamp, you may partake in the Tea Room as much and often as you like the whole weekend. This is a charity event for our Children’s Cancer charity so the funds we make after paying off the food bill will ALL go to the charity.
We will also have a Captain’s Table both Friday and Saturday nights. The price will be the exact cost the hotel charges us so we are not making any money for these dinners. Tickets will be required and will be available 2 months before the convention. Seating is limited to 25 people per meal and you can be assured there will be lively conversation and, of course, some immersion element to them. *Please remember that tickets for this event will be separate from the membership fee and seating is limited to 25 guests per night.*
And on the 8th floor of the hotel both Friday and Saturday nights, there will be special theme parties taking place. Fees charged will be going to charities and/or to pay for the rooms. Final pricing is unknown at this time.
Does TeslaCon focus on any specific types of events?
While being diverse as we can, we do tend to focus primarily on the era that we are immersing ourselves in and that is 1830-1910 (specifically 1880-1885). That doesn’t mean we won’t have offerings for periods before and after that but we try to make the weekend as much of an immersion as possible. Again we will have several events that will literally transport you to a real life adventure.
The Saturday night Ball tends to be the biggest highlight of the entire weekend. This is a two-hour extravaganza where all members come to be seen in their finest regalia. We start by announcing guests at the door as they enter then we proceed with a Grand March led by Lord and Lady Bobbins and, finally, the first official dance of the evening. From there we spend the next hour and thirty minutes making the music come alive for our guests. There will be a cash bar available along with photography during the Ball.
Is seating open to all members or will I need special tickets?
Seating for all events is OPEN to ALL members. You will not need a special ticket for anything. You will receive a special invite from Lord Bobbins for the mummy unwrapping (*) but it is open to all. The only things that need special registration or extra fees would be the Captain’s Table dinners (**price to be announced later**) and the Tea Room (*an additional cost of $10 per person as mentioned previously) for these activities. There will be several parties that will also charge a small fee to help pay for the rooms and the entertainment but that will be taken care of by the people hosting the events.
*Some events, panels or seminars might have a cap on the number of people we can sit for the said event or performance so you might wish to arrive early. The Tea Room is also an official charity event for TeslaCon.
Does TeslaCon focus on any specific type of Steamfandom?
TeslaCon is a 100% Steampunk event. Everything from costuming to the Tea Room to special gaming to parties and discussion panels – all are based on the Steampunk culture. We do, however, accept all levels and types of fandoms including Steampunk, Clockpunk, Dieselpunk, Raygun Gothic, Lolita, Chrononaut and more
Genres:
Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction, alternate history and speculative fiction that came into prominence during the 1980s and early 1990s. Specifically, Steampunk involves an era or world where steam power is still widely used – usually the 19th century and often Victorian-era Britain. It incorporates prominent elements of either science fiction or fantasy and works of Steampunk often feature anachronistic technology or futuristic innovations as Victorians may have envisioned them. In other words, it is based on a Victorian perspective on fashion, culture, architectural style, art, etc. This technology may include such fictional machines as those found in the works of H. G. Wells and Jules Verne or real technologies like the computer but developed earlier in an alternate history.
Other examples of Steampunk contain alternate history-style presentations of “the path not taken” for such technology as dirigibles and analog computers or such digital mechanical computers as Charles Babbage‘s Analytical Engine.
Steampunk is often associated with Cyberpunk. They have considerable influence on each other and share a similar fan base but Steampunk developed as a separate movement. Apart from time period and level of technology, the main difference is that Steampunk settings tend to be less dystopian.
Various modern utilitarian objects have been modernized by individual artisans into a pseudo-Victorian mechanical “Steampunk” style and a number of visual and musical artists have been described as Steampunk.
Weird West is used to describe a combination of the Western with another literary genre, usually horror, occult or fantasy.
DC‘s Weird Western Tales appeared in the early 1970s and the weird Western was further popularized by Joe R. Lansdale who is “best known for his tales of the ‘weird west,’ a genre mixing Splatterpunk with alternate history Western almost entirely defined by the author in the early nineties. His work reads a little like the sort of folklore in which Mark Twain dabbled (or the gothic in which Flannery O’Connor was involved) but with zombies and gore.”
Examples of these cross-genres include Deadlands (Western/Horror), The Wild Wild West and its later film adaptation (Western/Steampunk), Jonah Hex (Western/Superhero), BraveStarr (Western/Science Fiction) and many others.
Neo-Victorian is an aesthetic movement which amalgamates Victorian and Edwardian aesthetic sensibilities with modern principles and technologies. A large number of magazines and websites are devoted to neo-Victorian ideas in dress, family life, interior decoration, morals and other topics.
Dieselpunk is an art style and subculture that blends the aesthetics/pop culture of the 1920s – 1950s with today. To us, the “diesel era” was a time defined by warfare, Art Deco, pulp heroes, swing music and noir gum shoes. The goal is to create something unexpected by merging the zeitgeist of the past with the technology and attitude of the future.
Decopunk is a recent subset of the Steampunk genre and centered around the Art Deco and Streamline Moderne art styles and is based around the period between the 1920s and 1950s.
Raygun Gothic is a catchall term for a visual style that incorporates various aspects of the Googie, Streamline Moderne and Art Deco architectural styles when applied to retro-futuristic science fiction environments. Academic Lance Olsen has characterized Raygun Gothic as “a tomorrow that never was”. The style has also been associated with architectural indulgence and situated in the context of the golden age of modern design due to its use of features such as “single-support beams, acute angles, brightly colored paneling” as well as “shapes and cutouts showing motion”
