Imaginarium 2026 is proud to announce the addition of five new Panels to our programming! There will be over 135 panels and workshops hosted in our 13th year, so make sure to check back regularly on our official site to see all new additions!
The titles, presenters, and descriptions for these new programming additions are as follows:
New Panels Added:
Crafting Songs for Story and Stage: Moderator – TBA. This panel dives into the craft of songwriting from a writer’s perspective. Whether you are writing lyrics to be read on a page in a novel or composed for a musical score, learn how to balance meter and rhyme with emotional resonance. Our experts will discuss the technical transition from prose to poetry and how to write “performable” lyrics that capture a reader’s or listener’s imagination. (60 min)
Crafting Stories for the Next Generation: Moderator – TBA. This panel explores the nuances of different age categories (Picture Books, Middle Grade, and YA), discusses how to handle sensitive topics with age-appropriate realism, and offers strategies for creating characters that young readers will truly connect with. Whether you are writing whimsical adventures or gritty teen dramas, learn how to find your voice in the world of children’s literature. (60 min)
The Art of Illustrating Literature: Moderator – TBA. In the world of literature, an illustration is more than just a decoration; it is an extension of the narrative. This panel brings together illustrators, authors, and designers to discuss the collaborative process of bringing words to life. Learn how to interpret a writer’s vision, the technical requirements of different publishing formats, and how visual storytelling can deepen the impact of the written word. (60 min)
The Mechanics of Faith: Moderator – TBA. Understanding the difference between Theology (what they believe), Ritual (what they do), and Culture (how they live). A religion doesn’t involve just prayer; it’s dates on a calendar, a specific diet, and a social hierarchy. (60 min)
The SF Ethics of the Future: Moderator – TBA. Good SF doesn’t just predict the car; it predicts the traffic jam. We will discuss how to handle the “dark side” of progress and writing about dystopias vs. Utopias or “solarpunk” (optimistic futures). (60 min)