Agenda
Times are approximate and subject to change
Thursday August 29
Meet and Greet*
- 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Meet your favorite authors, narrators and fellow fans at the opening night mixer. Delicious finger food stations are filled with special New Orleans fare prepared especially for Dark Star guests and a special welcome message delivered by keynote speaker (tbd).
Friday August 30
Live Podcast
- VARIOUS
Two podcasters interview the Stars – authors and narrators, live before a studio audience at various times all through both days of Dark Star ’24.
Panel: NOT A Kissing Booth!**
- 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
**VIP+ only
This is an audience interactive panel, where you can ask your favorite narrator to say YOUR words. Or, line up for your chance to perform a duet- take home your copy of the recording.
Signing Day One
- 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Opening Day signings with authors and narrators give you the chance to meet people who write your favorite stories and the voices who bring them to life in audio. VIP/VIP+ tickets get one hour early access starting at 10. In addition to the autographs, enjoy Vendor Alley, where you can shop for your favorite merch, grab a relaxing chair massage, or maybe even a quick commemorative (fake) tattoo – after all – This – is – New Orleans!
Panel: Dating Game
- 3:15 PM to 4:00 PM
Author interviews narrators based upon their voices/performances of key things – like ‘how ‘would you help me get over a tough day?’ or: ‘I’m still working my 9-5 while this writing thing takes off… Read me this spreadsheet and make it interesting!’ or: ‘I HATE waking up in the morning! Can you be my alarm clock?’
Panel: Authors: How to write for Audio
- 3:15 PM to 4:00 PM
Dark Star World Premier Novella*
- 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Experience the world premiere of a Dark Star Original performance of a 2 – 3 hour dinner novella written by international best-selling author J.T. Geissinger. Starring: Sebastian York as the Storyteller; Renowned actors Tara Langella and Lucas Webley; and TWO up and coming narrators to be revealed as we find our winners of The Next Dark Star contest! – fully produced LIVE in front of the Dark Star audience – surrounded by music – sound effects, and immersive graphic audio. This truly is – What’s Next.
Saturday August 31
Live Podcast
- VARIOUS
Two podcasters interview the Stars – – authors and narrators, live before a studio audience at various times all through both days of Dark Star ’24.
Coffee & Cakes with the Stars
- 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Add on event (tickets will be sold separately). Get your morning started right with a good coffee and good conversation! This relaxed setting will be just what you need after a fun-filled Friday night in NOLA. Some caffeine, a beignet (or two!) and chatting up your favorite authors and narrators…does it get any better than this?Â
Panel: Narrators: How to fight AI
- 9:45 AM - 10:30 AM
With the advent of technology that allows an author to upload a manuscript and output a fully narrated audiobook at a fraction of the cost and time that a human narrator can perform, how can today’s professional narrator compete against AI? Find out from the leading thinkers winning on the ground today.
Panel: Bad Directions!
- 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM
Signing Day Two
- 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Panel: Pairings**
- 3:15 PM - 4:00 PM
**VIP+ only
Listen to different narrators reading different passages while dining on a special dish and a complimentary wine/whiskey.
Saturday night Gala and Masquerade Dance
- 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Sunday September 1st
Sunday Morning Brunch and Hugs
- 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
All the new friends – all the new memories – we’ll enjoy a wonderful breakfast and fond farewell.