Silicon Valley Comic Con 2017: The Schedule – Saturday, April 22

Pairing Science with Fiction

Silicon Valley Comic Con (SVCC), Steve Wozniak’s pop culture and technology expo, is almost here! Taking place April 21-23, 2017 in downtown San Jose, Silicon Valley Comic Con aims to inspire and entertain with celebrity appearances, science/tech discussions, film and TV screenings, panels with award-winning authors and artists, cosplay contests and more.

In addition to celebrating the pop culture and technology of today, SVCC 2017 will feature a series of themed exhibits and sessions focused on the “Future of Humankind: Where will we be in 2075?” SVCC 2017 attendees will be able to hear visions of the future from high profile guests and companies spanning a variety of industries. Here’s a look at the scheduling for SVCC 2017 on April 22:

9:50 am

Woz Welcome :: Show Floor Main Entrance (inside convention center, upper level)
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 9:50 am to 10:10 am

Last year Woz arrived with a Stormtrooper escort to officially welcome everyone to the show. What will he do this year?

10:00 am

:: SVCC Doors Open! ::
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm

Laser Weapons, Reality or Myth :: Room 111
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 10:00 am to 11:00 am

Where are those laser weapons? They work nicely in science fiction, but why don’t we hear about them on the modern battlefield? And do the science fiction writers even get it right? We’ll learn a little about lasers, their history, how they’re made, and why they sometimes catastrophically self-destruct, very much like a bad launch at Cape Canaveral. We’ll also learn how to build a laser; it’s not as difficult as one might think. And no equations. Presented by Dr. J. L. Doty

Official Gaia Panel :: Room LL21AB
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 10:00 am to 11:00 am

Come meet Gaia’s staff, and get a sneak peek at upcoming features, games, and events. Stick around for the open-mic Q&A session and get your burning questions answered! Expect plenty of fun and some great prizes!

10:30 am

Star Trek: The Next Generation 30th Anniversary Celebration :: City National Civic
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 10:30 am to 12:00 pm

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” Silicon Valley Comic Con will host a special ticketed event “Star Trek: The Next Generation 30th Anniversary Reunion” hosted by William Shatner and featuring Jonathan Frakes (Commander Riker), Marina Sirtis (Counselor Troi), Brent Spiner (Data), Gates McFadden (Dr. Crusher), Denise Crosby (Tasha Yar / Commander Sela) and Robert O’Reilly (Gowron). There will be TWO ticket levels available: Captain’s Chair and Bridge Pass.

The Art of Ralph McQuarrie: Star Wars and Beyond :: Room 210CDGH
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 10:30 am to 11:30 am

On January 31st, 1975, artist Ralph McQuarrie began working on a film for George Lucas then titled Adventures of the Starkiller – Episode One: “The Star Wars.” His work on STAR WARS would go on to inspire millions, and continues to influence contemporary STAR WARS films and television series. This presentation provides an introduction to the artist, stories behind the making of his most famous STAR WARS paintings, and a look at his work beyond a galaxy far, far away. Sponsored by the South Bay Star Wars Fan Club.

Virgin Galactic & Virgin Orbit: Opening Space to Change the World (For Good) :: Room 211ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 10:30 am to 11:30 am

Humanity first ventured into space more than five decades ago, achieving incredible things among the stars ever since, and yet the exploration of space has to date remained painfully out of reach to almost every person, company, and nation on our planet. Thankfully, that is changing. Companies like Virgin Galactic and Virgin Orbit are dedicating themselves to removing the barrier to space, and in so doing changing the face of the spaceflight industry itself. Scott Macklin will illustrate how these two companies are together opening access to space—for the good of our world.

Woz Photos & Autographs :: Woz Table (Convention Center Show Floor Table #13)
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 10:30 am to 11:30 am

Woz Autograph & Photo Table will be on the main show floor of the convention center; purchase tickets to meet Woz at the San Jose Parks Association Table #433. Proceeds will be donated to restoring his favorite San Jose dog park, Butcher Dog Park.

11:00 am

A Spotlight on Comic Book Men’s Ming Chen :: Room LL21AB
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

What’s it like to work at Kevin Smith’s comic book shop and trade barbs with co-workers Walt Flanagan, Bryan Johnson and Mike Zapcic? Find out as Ming Chen, one of the featured cast members of the AMC TV Show Comic Book Men, talks about what it’s like to have his fandom and himself put out there for millions every Sunday night after The Walking Dead. From GI Joe, to Star Wars to Clerks to Marvel comics, feel free to ask Ming anything at this panel.

Cosplay Filmmaking: 101 :: Room 111
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Cos & FX expands the cosplay community with a presentation on how to make your very own independent movie. (Presented by Bay Area Action Director, DESCIPLE). From camera gear to costume designing / from prop weapons to marketing, don’t miss this exciting panel presentation and highlights from Herofest Action Film Festival designed to immortalize your Cosplay characters!

Emerging Technology: Boldly Going Where No One Has Gone Before :: Room 212ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Technology is developing at a rate that keeps even the most advanced technophiles on their toes. Artificial Intelligence, robotics, digital biology, materials science, the Internet of Things—all of these and more are having a profound effect on our lives everyday. From space and ocean exploration, to the challenges we face here on Earth, science an technology have never before in all of human history, been more important to each and every one of us. Hear from a panel of experts who are serious about science and technology and the role they will play in our future: Science Fiction producer and guardian of the Star Trek legacy Rod Roddenberry; Partner at Draper Fisher Jurvetson and board member at SpaceX, Planet, and Tesla, venture capitalist Steve Jurvetson; Autodesk Explorer In Residence and Head of Faculty at Singularity University at NASA Ames Jonathan Knowles; and Founder of Made In Space Jason Dunn. Together we’ll explore the exponentially accelerating world of transformative science and technology breakthroughs and share our view on where it is likely to go.

Robots Among Us: Are We Ready? :: Room 230ABC
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

We have spent our whole lives imagining what the future will hold for us in terms of robotics; what will they look like, how will they act, and most importantly, what will they do? Today robots have seamlessly integrated themselves into our daily lives in the forms of self-driving cars, connected devices and even cellphones. The early 21st century saw the first wave of companion social robots, thanks largely to the smart phone, and a new wave of social robots has started, with humanoids like Pepper. Featuring the innovators on the cutting edge of robotic design, this panel will discuss how robots are being used to provide friendly, cooperative services in healthcare, education, transportation, companionship and business. Come and hear from the experts who are paving this new path and how fantasy will be brought to life. Omar Abdelwahed Head of Studio at SoftBank Robotics America Matt Ebisu Maker Research at ROBiTS R&D and work’s with Singularity University Greg Lynn Chief Creative Officer, Piaggio Fast Forward

11:30 am

Intro to Halo Costuming with Anvil Station Pacific Regiment :: Room 114
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 11:30 am to 12:30 pm

The Pacific Regiment is a costume and prop community based in the universe of the hit Xbox game series, Halo! Learn how to make your very own set of armor, props, and costumes as seen in the various video games and TV series with our talented group of panelists. We will discuss different building methods and materials, as well as talk about the group as a community of friends and comrades.

NASA in Silicon Valley: Solar System & Beyond :: Room 210CDGH
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 11:30 am to 12:30 pm

Just like the USS Enterprise, NASA in Silicon Valley is discovering and exploring new worlds, and seeking out life forms that may have existed there – and may even still, today. Star Trek was set hundreds of years in the future, but this work is happening here and now, at NASA’s Ames Research Center. Come learn about not just what we’re looking for, but how we aim to find it. NASA experts will talk about hunting for signs of life, or the potential for life, using planetary science, astrobiology, and feats of spacecraft engineering that let these missions fly. From Curiosity to Cassini and Kepler, studying Mars, the ocean worlds of Enceladus and Europa, Pluto, and the exoplanets, we’re busy searching for life in our solar system and beyond.

The Stars of Cosplay :: Room 211ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 11:30 am to 12:30 pm

Listen to our cosplay guests talk about their experiences in the world of cosplay. The hobby/art form/lifestyle continues to grow in popularity and visibility, creating a rainbow of styles and skills. Ask questions, get advice, laugh.

12:00 pm

Sesame Street Mr. McFeely Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth B
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 12:00 pm

March for Science Rally :: Plaza de César Chávez
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm

We’ve partnered with the March for Science Silicon Valley to host a Rally for Science. The March for Science is a national marching movement to celebrate science, promote STEM education and advance nonpartisan advocacy for evidence-based policy. The family-friendly festival and rally will include science-focused educational activities and opportunities for nonpartisan advocacy for evidence-based policy. Experts in climate change, coding, astrophysics, STEAM education, local politicians, celebrities and more will speak, including: Mayim Bialik, NeuroScientist, Actress (Big Bang Theory) Kimberly Bryant, Founder of Black Girls Code Tim Ritchie, President and CEO, The Tech Museum of Innovation William Moerner, PhD, Nobel Laureate for Chemistry Sarahi Espinoza Salamanca, Founder DREAMers Roadmap Jose Cabrera, PhD, Chemistry Professor at San Jose City College Phil Plait PhD, Astronomer, “The Bad Astronomer” Check out https://marchforsciencesv.com/ for more info.

Nerd Rage :: Room 111
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm

“Star Trek” vs. “Star Wars!” Buffy vs. Lara Croft! Superman vs. Goku! When there are geeky debates to be had, there will be nerds to rage over them. Join some of the Bay Area’s funniest and nerdiest stand-up comics from the Komedio network for a raucous, no-holds-barred free-for-all, as they debate some of the biggest and hottest topics in all of geekdom. Are you ready to rage?

The Cartoon Art Museum: Adventures in Original Art :: Room LL21AB
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm

12:15 pm

Jonathan Frakes Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth A
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 12:15 pm

Jonathan Frakes is an actor, author and director. Frakes is best known for his portrayal of Commander William T. Riker in the television series Star Trek: The Next Generation and subsequent films. Frakes also hosted the television series “Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction,” challenging viewers to discern his stories of fact-based phenomena and fabricated tales. In June 2011, Frakes narrated the History Channel documentary “Lee and Grant.” He was also the voice actor of David Xanatos in the Disney television series Gargoyles. Frakes directed and also starred in “Star Trek: First Contact” as well as “Star Trek: Insurrection.” He is also the author of a novel called “The Abductors: Conspiracy.”

12:30 pm

Breaking Barriers: Pam Grier & Nichelle Nichols Q&A :: City National Civic
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm

Join us as we honor and hear from boundary-breaking women that made history in entertainment. As Uhura on the original Star Trek TV show, Nichelle Nichols became one of the first African American female characters portrayed on TV that was not a servant. The Queen of Blaxploitation films, Pam Grier was the first African American woman to star in an action film. Moderator: Leslie Miley, Executive Residence @ Venture for America, former director of engineering at Slack, and more.

Expanding Horizons: Southeast Asia in Comics :: Room 114
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm

For many, Southeast Asia is primarily presented in comics tied to the Vietnam War, and the beginning of the refugee journey for over a million people from Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. In this panel we look at how comics depict this journey from the pages of Iron Man, the Punisher, and G.I. Joe to G.B. Tran’s award-winning Vietnamerica and the DC comics hero Katharsis. We will also examine the newer stories emerging in mainstream and independent comics.

NASA in Silicon Valley: Journey to Mars :: Room 210CDGH
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm

“Mars is there. Waiting to be reached.” – Buzz Aldrin Before we can think about inhabiting Mars, we must develop technology to get there! The technology to bring and anchor ourselves to another world will be a historic achievement. In the Bay Area, NASA researchers are working hard to solve those problems. Today they’ll discuss human factors simulations, entry systems, astrobiology, advanced computing and more.

Science Faction = Science Fiction + Facts :: Room 211ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm

Science is excellent fodder for Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and Speculative Fiction. Underexplored is the role of science in graphic nonfiction. Yet there have been original and impactful graphic books on string theory, physics, Turing, and Russell. We invite creatives Christos Papadimitriou of Logicomix, Jorge Cham of PhD Comics, and Clifford Johnson, String Theorist and graphic artist, — hosted by astrophysicists Janna Levin and Jameson Rollins — to discuss the future of Science Faction.

12:45 pm

Star Trek: TNG Group Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth A
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 12:45 pm

Gina Torres Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth B
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 12:45 pm

Zoe from Firefly & Serenity, Jessica Pearson from Suits, Lauren from Westworld and Many More

1:00 pm

Star Trek: TNG Group William Shatner Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth A
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 1:00 pm

Architects of Storytelling through VR and AR :: Room 230ABC
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

Is virtual reality on the edge of becoming a whole new entertainment medium? Will augmented reality change our expectations of how stories are told? Hear storytellers and developers from across film, television, games and comics discuss how they adapt their experiences working on popular film and game franchises to creating new kinds of stories and worlds for VR and AR.

Classroom Crossover Event: Comics in Secondary Education :: Room 212ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

Four San Jose educators discuss concrete strategies for using comic books and graphic novels in high school classrooms. Join teachers from San Jose Unified School District and the East Side Union High School district to discuss incorporating comics, including “Ms. Marvel,” “Batman,” “Maus,” “Persepolis” and “Pride of Baghdad” in English, World History, Psychology and Special Education courses.

Men of Bronze: 70’s and 80s comic book artists :: Room LL21AB
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

The times were changing in comics, new faces were appearing at Marvel and DC. The next generation of artists are started to arrive and putting their stamp on the comics kids and adults were reading. Hear what it was like from Thomas Yeates (Saga of The Swamp Thing, Sgt Rock), Joe Rubinstein (Wolverines, Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe), Bob Wiacek (Star Wars, X-Men), and Ron Wilson (Marvel Two-in-One, The Thing) plus moderator Brian Peck (John Buscema The Michaelangelo of Comics)

1:15 pm

William Shatner :: Photo Op Area – Booth A
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 1:15 pm

1:30 pm

Baba Brinkman: Peer Reviewed Rap :: Plaza de César Chávez
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Canadian MC dropping hyper-infectious rhymes about evolution, climate change, and many other scientific topics worth marching for.

Comics! They’re Not Just for Boys Anymore! :: Room 211ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Today there are more women creating and reading comics than ever before, and what they are producing are original, entertaining comics for women and men. No longer can mainstream publishers and editors insist that “Girls don’t read comics!” A racially diverse panel of four women, each representing part of the comics industry (artists, writers, and a retailer) will discuss what to look for in comics by women today: what’s good and what’s even better, including their own work.

Life In Space: Venturing Into Our Solar System & the NASA International Space Station :: Room 210CDGH
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Explore the cutting edge of new technologies and new research NASA is developing to sustain life in space, including how plants, animals, microbes and other organisms from Earth adapt to being in space.

Over 30 Cosplay :: Room 114
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Join our discussion on topics interesting to older cosplayers: Age advocacy and inclusivity of older cosplayers. Costume choice (age appropriate characters or try a younger look). Dating, marriage and couples/family cosplay (how cosplay impacts your personal life). Societal impact (how cosplay is viewed by your peers, Job, and society the older you get). Panelists include Joseph Minafra, John Callison, Phoenix Morgan, Laurel D’Arrigo, Bill Watters, and Mary Anne Butler. Cosplay is for EVERYONE!

1:45 pm

Adam West Burt Ward Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth B
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 1:45 pm

2:00 pm

A Spotlight on John Cusack :: City National Civic
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Literary Pop! :: Room 212ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Literature and Pop Culture collide. Writers, storytellers and comedians share work about and inspired by their pop culture obsessions. Hosted by Wonder Dave.

2:30 pm

Gary Fisher Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth B
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 2:30 pm

Pam Grier Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth A
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 2:30 pm

Real Life Superhero Pam Grier was the first African-American woman to headline action films. She has played bold, powerful women in films such as Coffy and Foxy Brown and rekindled her superhero appeal with hits like Jackie Brown and The HBO television series The L Word. Acclaimed film critic Roger Ebert described Grier as possessing a kind of “physical life” lacking in other actresses. As detailed in her bestselling memoir, (FOXY BROWN, MY LIFE IN THREE ACTS), Grier overcame sexual abuse, racial barriers and has survived life’s hardships, including cancer, to become the iconic heroine she is today. Aside from her lifetime achievements in acting and writing, Grier received her Doctorate of Humane Letters from Maryland University Eastern Shore, an Honorary Doctorate of Science from Langston University, the Golda Meir Leadership Award, the Entertainment AIDS Alliance Visionary Award and was honored for her professional and personal successes by BET, Lincoln Center and Harvard University.

A Spotlight on The Walking Dead’s Steven Yeun :: Room 230ABC
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm

Autonomy for Humans: How the Makers of Vespa Built a Cargo-Carrying Vehicle to Help You Move More :: Room LL21AB
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm

The autonomous transportation revolution is primarily focused on automobiles and their impact on cities. As a global transportation company specializing in lightweight vehicles used in the densest, most congested cities in the world we approach autonomy from a di erent scale and perspective, looking at sidewalks, building interiors, boulevards and bike lanes where pedestrians, skaters and cyclists move through cities. With vehicles that intelligently follow people we free their hands, helping them move further, faster and more e ciently. People are at the center of the equation instead of cars and trucks, allowing for a new, seamless urban movement in, out and through buildings that is not possible with larger vehicles. Join famed architect Greg Lynn and Sasha Ho man to learn about what is happening in the world of personal urban mobility, how robots can augment humans and how the company that brought you the Vespa is thinking about the movement of people and goods with a lightweight, cargo carrying vehicle named Gita.

How to Make a Nicole: Pop-culture Pin-up Art with a Cheesecake Twist :: Room 114
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm

Nicole shows you her process from start to finish including the concept, photo shoot, and drawing and painting techniques.

2:45 pm

Robert Englund Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth A
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 2:45 pm

3:00 pm

Exploration and the Hunt for Life Beyond Earth :: Room 210CDGH
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Is earth the only planet of its kind in the universe or is there somewhere else like this out there? Endowed with an irrepressible curiosity, we humans have always explored, and in recent years, our explorations have taken us o our world, into or solar system, and beyond. We’ve sent dozens of spacecraft to explore our solar system, and our technology has helped us identify thousands of exoplanets–worlds beyond our solar system. The search for extraterrestrial life and the origin of life, astrobiology, is one of humankind’s greatest challenges. Join us as we explore the methods how, and reasons why, this search is meaningful to all of humanity.

Just Draw :: Room 211ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Have you ever wanted to get started drawing comics and can’t? Have you ever wanted to finish you story and can’t? Just Draw 101 will teach you mindfulness techniques to finish your work stay focused and get the drawings done. We’ll create some simple characters and build out stories in their lives so you have a way to start your career in comics. Mark Badger has drawn comics all his life working for Marvel and DC to a variety of non-profits. He has combined that with his passion for teaching com

NASA in Silicon Valley: Technology of the Future :: Room 212ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm

NASA: at forefront of cutting edge technology. Silicon Valley: epicenter of technology innovation. So it stands to reason that NASA in Silicon Valley has research and projects in the works that would show the technology of the future. Discover what is coming next from the researchers and scientist as NASA, as they discuss new and innovative technologies including the ADEPT umbrella heat shield, quantum computing, aviation advances and more.

3:15 pm

John Cusack Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth A
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 3:15 pm

Robert O’Reilly Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth B
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 3:15 pm

3:30 pm

Marina Sirtis Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth B

Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 3:30 pm

Buzz Aldrin: Humanity’s Future In Space :: City National Civic
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm

Dr. Buzz Aldrin secured his place in history as a member of the Apollo 11 crew when he became one of the first two men to walk on the moon along with Neil Armstrong. Since retiring from NASA, Dr. Aldrin has remained a tireless advocate for space exploration, pushing boundaries through new technologies and using his orbital dynamics expertise

planning Cycling Pathways to Mars. Come listen to Buzz share his vision for the future of Mars exploration and what it will take to colonize the red planet.

Komedio Standup Comedy Showcase :: Plaza de César Chávez
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm

Komedio Comedy has been traversing the convention circuit with their nerd comedy stand up showcase providing giggles and gags for every type of fandom. Komedio Comedy boasts a diverse background and dedication to multiple fandoms. Individually accomplished in standup comedy, including comedians featured in SF Sketchfest, Komedio Comedy members host a variety of geek themed shows providing laughs for audiences of all genres and geekdoms.

Superheroines! :: Room 114
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm

Harley Quinn, Supergirl, Wonder Woman, and Daisy Johnson are taking over film and TV, with more heroines coming. In comics, Marvel’s Squirrel Girl, Lady Thor, Spider-Gwen, and Ms. Marvel have revolutionized superhero storytelling. Why are these new stories so compelling (or not)? What’s the best of the best and what should we be reading and watching?

The Cartoon Art Museum presents Astro City: A Centennial Celebration with Brent Anderson :: Room LL21AB
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm

3:45 pm

Denise Crosby Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth B
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 3:45 pm

Denise Crosby is best known for portraying Security Chief Tasha Yar in Season One of Star Trek: The Next Generation as well as Yar’s own daughter, the half-Romulan Commander Sela, in subsequent seasons. Fun fact: She had originally been chosen to play Counsellor Deanna Troi before Gene Roddenberry switched the roles that she and Marina Sirtis had initially been given. Prior to being cast in TNG, the granddaughter of Bing Crosby already had a list of credits that included a regular stint on Days of Our Lives and a role in Eddie Murphy’s debut movie “48 Hours.” Her TV career has seen guest-starring parts on many fan favorite series: Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Crossing Jordan, J.A.G., Threat Matrix, L.A. Law, The X-Files, NYPD Blue, Southland, Dexter, Bones, Mad Men, Ray Donovan and The Walking Dead. Her film work includes a starring role in “Pet Sematary” shortly after she left TNG, along with appearances in “Deep Impact,” “Jackie Brown,” “Desert Hearts” and many others. Aside from TNG, Crosby has also made a significant mark on the Trek universe as host and co-executive producer of the feature documentaries “Trekkies,” and “Trekkies 2,” which provided an often-humorous look at Star Trek fans.

4:00 pm

Gates McFadden Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth B
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 4:00 pm

Creators of the Universe :: Room 230ABC
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm

What is it that feeds the fandom for beloved films, games, comic book worlds, TV series and other forms of entertainment? The narrative? The depiction of the world? Complex characters? What are the secrets for developing a deep, immersive universe that make a long-lasting franchise? What helps these creations become cult classics? We’ll hear from creatives across film, television, gaming and comics discussing world-building and the future of franchise development across the spectrum of entertainment.

Droids and Death Stars: The Science of Star Wars :: Room 211ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Who hasn’t wondered how a lightsaber works, or what makes a Wookiee Bowcaster so powerful? Is the Death Star massive enough to create its own gravity? In an exciting update to our sold-out, standing-room only “Science of Star Wars” panels from SDCC and NYCC, Outer Places assembles a panel of experts, scientists, and die-hard fans to explore the science behind Star Wars. This will be our first panel to focus specifically on the technology, space travel, and robots featured in the movies.

Hack the Fame Game in Hollywood & Social Media :: Room 212ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Characterized as “Brilliant” by Dailymail and applauded that “most people never discuss that side of the business”, Model /Author, Rachel McCord shares the inside scoop on becoming famous in Hollywood & Social Media. Audiences laugh as they learn tips & proven techniques on chasing fame, building public brands and leveraging emergent media platforms to generate buzz in press. McCord has used these principles with Coca Cola, Zappos & Napa Valley to secure over 562,000,000 reach in marketing/PR.

The Idiot’s Lantern – A Superhero themed sketch comedy show. :: Room 210CDGH
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm

4:15 pm

Steven Yeun Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth A
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 4:15 pm to 5:15 pm

4:30 pm

Brent Spiner Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth B
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 4:30 pm

Simpsons Trivia :: Plaza de César Chávez
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm

Trivia panel on The Simpsons, hosted by Simpsonologist and Stand-Up Comic Dr. Karma Waltonen (UC Davis). Separate rounds for adults and children–with questions ranging from D’oh (easy) to Frinkiac-7. Prizes will be given to the winners!

Storytelling with Michael Golden :: Room LL21AB
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm

Join Michael Golden, creator of Rogue from the X-Men, renowned artist on Doctor Strange, Star Wars, The ‘Nam, G.I. Joe and much more, as he talks the basics of storytelling for ANY type of media, be it comic books, film or animation. This interactive class will give you a chance to hear what he has to say on how to sharpen your

storytelling skills, with time for a Q and A to fine tune any points. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from one of the best in the business.

5:00 pm

Tom Felton Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth B
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:00 pm

Back to the Future: Adventures in a DeLorean Time Machine :: Room 211ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm

“How to Fall in Love, Build a Time Machine, Become Rich and Famous, Tour the World, and Cure PD.” Join professional time travelers Terry and Oliver Holler as they take you BACK on their incredible journey and inspire you forward TO THE FUTURE! Witness their ‘build process’, enjoy a scenic whirlwind travelogue, and discover how they took life-threatening adversity and turned a passion toward a purpose.

Cosplay Transformation: Tips and Tricks for Makeup, Body Paint, SFX Application and Wig styling :: Room 212ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm

So you really want to get into character? What better way than through simple prosthetic applications, wig sculpting/styling, body paint and even choosing the right contact lenses. Bat in the Suns’s Makeup Artist, Chrissy Lynn will teach the basics of purchasing and applying prosthetics, ways to save money, and what types of products and materials best fit your needs as a cosplayer or performer. Get ready for 10 + years experience in the cosplay community and industry to show you the way!

Robert Englund Q&A :: Room 230ABC
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm

The Future of Humanity in Entertainment :: Room 210CDGH
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Could the stories you see on television and movies come true? Zombies, aliens, the future of humanity? Join a panel of entertainment industry stars that have shaped the landscape of humanity in entertainment as they discuss these questions and more. Pick the brains of Ronald D. Moore (Battlestar Galactica, Star Trek), Matt Frewer (Max Headroom, Timeless), Aaron Johnston (Ender’s Game), Clay Brown (Lucasfilm), Geoff Boucher (Nerdist) and Chad Michael Collins (Sniper).

The History And Impact of The Cable Car – How It Will Shape The Autonomous Car :: Room 111
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm

How Cable Car Technology Pioneered City Development and Urban Transportation- What its effects will have on the autonomous car. A short history of the first mechanical land transportation that could grow a city beyond walking distance. Learn its worldwide effect and how it is still influencing our modern transportation systems. A talk by filmmaker Strephon Taylor whose latest documentary covers the 1873 development of the cable car in San Francisco. Followed by a discussion with the audience on the future of the autonomous car.

Woz Photos & Autographs :: Woz Table (Convention Center Show Floor Table #13)
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

5:15 pm

Tom Wilson Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth A
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:15 pm

5:30 pm

Breaking Through the STEM Ceiling for Women :: Room LL21AB
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm

When only 13% of engineering professionals and only 25% of computer and mathematical scientists in the U.S. are women, the tech community wants answers. SVCC will tackle the question of why women are underrepresented in STEM in a thought provoking and engaging discussion with four women leading their fields in the hope that this dialog will help us move towards a future with stronger participation of women in STEM fields. Join us in discussion with Heather Berlin, a cognitive neuroscientist and Professor of Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Tracy Drain, the Deputy Chief Engineer for the Juno Mission to Jupiter, Laetitia Garriott de Cayeux, a beamed energy propulsion pioneer, and Nathalie Cabrol, the Director of the SETI Institute Carl Sagan Center.

Costume Contest :: City National Civic
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm

Geek Fashion Show Preview :: Plaza de César Chávez
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm

5:45 pm

Billy Boyd Photo Op :: Photo Op Area – Booth A

Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 5:45 pm

6:00 pm

Finding Your Path to Greatness as an Actor of the Future :: Room 211ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Anjali Bhimani will talk about the various paths she has taken performing in theatre, on Broadway, in opera, television, film, and voice acting and share some of her insights about how to cultivate your passion as a performing artist while moving forward and upward in your career just as technology and creativity grows exponentially . Bring your questions and be ready to open your minds to new possibilities of what it means to be a thriving artist in our world of growing diversity and exciting technology. Actress/Singer Anjali Bhimani is best known as the voice of Symmetra in Overwatch and Nisha in Fallout 4: Nuka-World. On TV, fans know her as Nina Patel on Modern Family and Wendy on Cassandra French’s Finishing School (currently airing on Fullscreen), and from appearances on such hit shows as NCIS: Los Angeles, Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders, The Sopranos, Law and Order:SVU among many, many others. She can be seen in the upcoming film Trafficked with Ashley Judd, and played pageant queen Pinky Matthews in the hit movie, Miss India America. On Broadway, she played Bollywood diva Rani in Andrew Lloyd Weber’s Bombay Dreams and Myrrha in Mary Zimmerman’s Metamorphoses. She’s the creator of the I Am Fun Size series of life hack/positivity YouTube series, and a huge lover of her fans, so come say hi!

Star Trek Continues screening and Q&A :: Room 210CDGH
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Finishing the original 5-year mission, ’Star Trek Continues’ is a Geekie, Webby, Telly, and Global Accolade award-winning fan series created by and starring Vic Mignogna (Fullmetal Alchemist). Also starring Grant Imahara (Mythbusters) as Sulu, and Chris Doohan, son of the original ’Scotty’ reprising his father’s iconic role. Episode 8 “Still Treads the Shadow” was written by Original Series writer Judy Burns, and stars our special guest Rekha Sharma (Battlestar Galactica)! Join cast members Michele Specht (Dr. McKennah), Kim Stinger (Uhura), past guest star Gigi Edgley (Farscape), Producer/Makeup Supervisor Lisa Hansell, Co-Producer Kasey Shafsky and Art Director Greg Dykstra for this screening of episode 8 followed by Q&A and special giveaways. Michele Specht and Kim Stinger can also be found Friday and Saturday at the ’Star Trek Continues’ table in Hall 3 for pictures and autographs!

6:30 pm

Making your own Low Budget Sci Fi Film for little to no money – Tips and Hints from those who have done it :: Room 212ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm

This is a panel dedicated to show how short films / fan films / any sort of indie sci fi film can be made with little to no money. There will be a panel of indie filmmakers, camera experts, art department staff and others, who can talk about and answer questions to anyone who wants to make their own ‘vision’ come to life via the video/film media.

Rap Up – Wrap Up :: Plaza de César Chávez
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm

SETI Space Ball :: Hilton Hotel
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 6:30 pm to 12:00 am

In conjunction with SVCC, the SETI Institute will be holding a gala event at the Hilton hotel a ached to the convention center. Tickets are available at seti.org or on the SVCC website. Cocktails begin at 6:30pm, followed by space talks from a variety of the world’s brightest minds. Dinner, a live auction and dancing round out the night. For more information visit www.seti.org

7:30 pm

Better Off Dead :: Room 211ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm

8:00 pm

Creature Features Live! :: Room 212ABCD
Saturday April 22, 2017 :: 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm

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General admission tickets are now on sale for Silicon Valley Comic Con (SVCC), Steve Wozniak’s pop culture and technology expo taking place April 21-23, 2017 in downtown San Jose. Pairing science with fiction, Silicon Valley Comic Con aims to inspire and entertain with celebrity appearances, science/tech discussions, film and TV screenings, panels with award-winning authors and artists, cosplay contests and more.

Three-day and single-day passes for SVCC 2017 can be purchased today at www.svcomiccon.com. Fans who purchase three-day passes before October 1 will be entered into a drawing to ride around SVCC 2017 with the Woz in his VIP golf cart.

To purchase tickets, visit www.svcomiccon.com/tickets.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available.
For more information, email marketing@svcomiccon.com or visit http://svcomiccon.com/sponsors/want-to-exhibit.

Be sure to stay with PopCultHQ as we bring you more pre-convention news as well as our live and on-the-scene coverage at Silicon Valley Comic Con this weekend!

<Silicon Valley Comic Con 2017 (April 21-23): The Celebrities>

<SVCC 2017: Artists, Authors & Exhibitors + Downloadable Maps!>

<Silicon Valley Comic Con 2017: The Special Events>

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*** info courtesy of Silicon Valley Comic Con