Two weeks later I am still in awe of the coordination and talent that went into Steam Con IV. The costumes, the people and the events all culminated in a spectacular event that both entertained and enlightened. The Victorian Monsters theme was a frightening success and I feel safe in saying that it will be remembered for some time to come.

R. “Martin” Armstrong, Diana Vick and the other amazing orchestrators collaborated to produce this 3 day event in succession to Steam Con III, held in 2011. Since the Hotel had determined the only availability was the last weekend in October, they decided on a Halloween based theme and a Con was born. With talents such as Jordan Block, of Sepia Chord, and Rasputina, the cello wielding trio, it is easy to see why Steam Con IV was such a great success.

The Costumes of the patrons greatly exceeded my expectations.  The most amazing part of any Con is the imagination and ingenuity that goes into creating the perfect costume. It was posed to me, by my friend Mike, as “at most Con’s the most one can hope for is to look like someone else.” This isn’t the case for a Steampunk Convention. At Steam Con there was no end to the wonder and effort that proudly robed these enthusiasts. Elaborate

leatherwork, fine dresses and ornate brass gadgets adorned almost every one. I noticed, not only the craftsmanship, but the originality that went into the creations. No two people looked alike and each provided their own style to the visual culture of the Steampunk world.

The panel speakers, also, left nothing to be desired as they informed and entertained us with varying topics. Zombies and monsters to ball room dancing, a myriad of subjects were offered throughout the weekend. I, particularly, enjoyed the “Powering Your Monster” lecture given by Steve Sandvik and Corry L. Lee. It pondered the various types of materials that could be used to power a monster, converting the calorie requirements of different sizes to the energy released by materials like coal.

Then, the night came and with it the wonderment of evening’s entertainment. Dancing, music and libations floated my senses around the convention center. The Sounds of amazing performers enchanted the ear and pulled crowds together. On Friday night, D.J. Jammin’ Panda provided some digital grooves and Toy Box Trio took us into the magical world of a music box. Saturday night gave us Rasputina, The Nathaniel Johnstone band and the comedic styling’s of Eric Stern.

The magic and friendliness of Steam Con IV made me wistful for a day that never was. Each evening I walked out of a wonderland and back into a gray world of modern technology. Next year, with all good favor, there will be another Steam Con and I can only, once more, hope to be witness .