So what's all this 'three cons in one' malarky?

For the last two unicons, we have been able to provide a filk stream alongside the main program, and come to an arrangement whereby members of our mini filk convention (Harmuni) are automatically members of the unicon. This benefits both sides by:

• Getting more members for the unicon, so a better turnout all round
• More varied programme for regular unicon attendees - and getting new people to see/try filk for the first time
• Filkers having the opportunity to go and do things which are not filk
• Someone Else (ie. not us!) doing the hotel liaison, membership etc!

This year is particularly special, as the British Roleplaying Society are also merging their 2007 convention at the unicon.

So three cons for the price of one! What are you waiting for? Join now!

What's filk?

Filk has been described as "the folk music of the science fiction/fantasy fan community," (Kay Shapero) or "a mixture of song parodies and original music, humorous and serious, about subjects like science fiction, fantasy, computers, cats, politics, the space program, books, movies, TV shows, love, war, death..." (Nick Smith). For a more detailed description, check out Kay Shapero's Filk FAQ or the directory of definitions on the Interfilk website

In essence though, it's fun, it's safe, and you're welcome. Drop in and have a look!

I’m new to filk – what do I need to know? (text from PR)

So you’d like to come and take a look but don’t want to be the neo at the back? Fear not, here’s the essentials you need to fit right in.

Concert etiquette

No need to book, just turn up. If you arrive late, wait until you hear clapping, then enter the hall quietly and take a seat. Obviously no mobile phones or loud conversations during the concert!

Activities (e.g. workshops)

If there are limited places, you may need to sign up in advance. Come to the filk programme early in the convention to get yourself on any relevant sign-up sheets. Please arrive promptly for workshops, as they’re usually jam-packed of busy-ness.

Circle etiquette

Turn up (and head off) whenever you like; as for concerts, wait for clapping before you come into the room and take a seat. If you fancy playing or singing, bring your relevant instruments and/or enthusiasm! Circles tend to be run in one of two ways:

1. Bardic, where we go round the circle and each person in turn chooses either to play a song, request a song (e.g. “does anyone have a song about Firefly?”), or pass. OR
2. Chaos, where people can jump in at random, especially where they have a song which follows the theme of the one before, but do not be afraid to break in with something unrelated. Chaos circles can be a bit manic for the newcomer, so here’s some vital know-how for how to take part:
• If you’ve got a instrument or voice (“and I’m not afraid to use it!”), wait until clapping has subsided and start strumming/playing/singing. If someone else has started at the same time as you, make eye contact and come to a speedy gentle(wo)man’s agreement of who will go first. Be gracious!
• If you’re not sure how you’ll show you want to perform, or feeling a bit shy, have your music out and at the ready, and smile at a responsible-looking filker (we will have one or two on hand) who will help get you in.
• If you’ve just done a song, expect to wait a while before you do another, especially in a large circle. Even if you think all the usual suspects have had their turn, there might be a shyer fan just about to pluck up the courage to sing. Leave some space for them to do just that!
• Enjoy yourself! There is no required “skill level” for taking part in a circle – nor any pressure to perform if you’d rather listen in. There are also plenty of songs with a rousing, memorable chorus for those who prefer to sing along with others. So whether you’re a curious listener, experienced performer, or someone who just wants a taster, you are welcome at the filk stream!