Whilst many are still recovering after Sci-Fi Weekender (SFW) last month (reviewed here), plans are already being made for next year’s SFW.
Unlike other conventions, SFW is more akin to a festival, where people descend on a caravan park in Great Yarmouth for a weekend-long celebration of science-fiction, fantasy and horror. The days are filled with a variety of interviews, panels and gaming, whilst the evenings are filled with live music. John Robertson, of the Dark Room, once described SFW as “Space Butlins”, whilst others simply refer to it as “Geek Camp.”
Headlining next year’s event will be actor Paul McGann. Most famous for playing the 8th Doctor in Doctor Who, McGann has also starred in Withnail and I and Alien 3. Joining him will be variety of actors, including Daphne Ashbrook, who played the 8th Doctor’s companion, as well as appearing in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and other shows.
Cosplaying will be coming to the fore once again at SFW, with the cosplayers Tabitha Lyons and Samii Jinx. They will be presenting a series of talks and panels, as well as hosting cosplay workshops and live demonstrations.
It is never SFW without live music and 2025 will feature Sci-Fi band. Paying tribute to Star Wars, the SciFi band have a huge repertoire of songs, and an eclectic mix of musical styles that has seen them appearing at Star Wars events and exclusive parties worldwide.
John Robertson will also be returning with his award-winning live-action videogame The Dark Room, which is best described as a combination of comedy and retro gaming compered by a gloriously deranged heavy metal host.
Another first for SFW will be Life Sized DnD. Combining atmospheric scenery, exciting stories and engaging soundscape, players explore a life-size dungeon in order to experience what it be like to actually be in a D&D Game. It is like LARP, but with giant dice.
The SFW Awards ceremony will take place on the Thursday. There will also be the authors, cosplay competition, retro gaming, board gaming and the usual glorious insanity that can only be found at SFW.
2025’s Sci-Fi Weekender will be held on 20th-23rd March, and tickets are selling fast for what promises to be an amazing geek fest.
