GeneCon 2054

A satirical exploration of pandemic themes, as we re-emerged back into large group gatherings. Set in the year 2054, GeneCon is an underground convention organized by "RecombiNation" — for those who recognize a fictional gene therapy virus for the potentially game-changing technology for global unification that it could be. The event explored themes of transhumanism, government overreach, and the ethical implications of emergent technologies, all through the lens of satirical play.

Highlights

• Third chapter of Luminary Society, a series of immersive social experiments in sacred play
• Satirical immersive convention set in a fictional 2054 where genetic recombination has transformed society
• Explored themes of transhumanism, government overreach, and the ethics of emergent technologies
• Created the "RecombiNation" storyworld with fictional convention framing and character dynamics
• Crafted as a communal re-emergence experience following pandemic isolation
• Co-created with dozens of contributors across story, art, music, lighting, and production
• Two-day build with volunteer crew; broke even on ticket sales

Key Contributions

• Designed and produced the immersive convention experience
• Created the fictional 2054 storyworld, including the "RecombiNation" framing and character dynamics
• Crafted the satirical narrative exploring pandemic themes through play
• Managed production, site, and participant experience

"The freedom and invitation to unleash a little of the shadow weirdo to express edginess and celebrate/witness others doing the same." — GeneCon Participant

Acknowledgements

Manuel (Co-organizer & Music Curation), Selena (Story & Theatrical Direction), Ivy (Performance & Monologue), Ari (Story & Theatrical Direction), Jasper (Keynote Performance), Natalie & Michael Bean (Entrance Experience Design), Mychael (Lighting Design), Leif (Photography), Ted (Venue Host), and the many artists, DJs, safety crew, build crew, and participants who co-created the experience.

Video