Reverend Matt’s acclaimed series of comedy lectures returns to CONsole Room! Many of the monsters of Doctor Who are original – but many are also based on our world’s mythology. Learn about Who’s alien versions of mythological dragons and gorgons, horror-classic werewolves and vampires, unexplained-phenomena grey aliens and Nessies, and many more! Plus jokes! And PowerPoint!

The history and meaning of the creatures of the Harry Potter franchise. Where do hippogriffs come from? Mythology doesn’t really have Norwegian Ridgeback Dragons – but what did Norwegian dragons look like? Do basilisk legends get weirder than in the books? (Spoiler: They sure do!) And werewolves, and house elves, and more besides!

Two (shorter) Monster Sciences for the price of one! “The Monsters of the MIA” – a complete history of the mythological creatures depicted in the art of Minneapolis’ premier fine art museum! And “A World Full of Monsters” – the monsters of the films of Guillermo del Toro! Both shows that have only appeared at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, brought back to life to terrorize the living!

Opening entertainment by Kayla Sotebeer!

The mythmaking of J.R.R. Tolkien, both the legends he drew from and the ones he created, specifically as regards his monsters and supernatural entities. He inspired elves and dwarves and even dragons for the 20th century – but from where did he draw his inspiration? Plus, jokes! And PowerPoint!

Opening entertainment by Heather Rand-McKay!

A global overview of the most majestic and powerful of mythological creatures – the dragon! Huge supernatural reptiles are found in stories from all over the world – from the evil fire-breathers of Europe through the celestial bureaucrats of China to the grand, horned water-serpents of the American First Nations, and so, so many more. Learn helpful tips on dragon identification, behavior, and, heaven forbid, slaying techniques!