New York City celebrates Serenity with a Screening and Shindig

Saturday, June 8, New York City is changing things around a little with a pre-screening party at the New York Brewing Company before heading to the theatre for a costume contest and live music by Sean Faust. There will be a cash bar and drinks are welcome in the theatre.

There is also a live auction with some great items. Who wouldn’t want a set of tools signed by Jewel Staite? Just take a look at how she signed it!
There’s a First Aid Kit signed by Sean and an Equality Now hat that Joss himself signed, to name just a few items. Also, there is a very special not yet released game that anyone would be interested in…..

And of course, there is Serenity, the movie that can be seen over and over again.… Read more…

Message from Dave

Here we are approaching the heart of the CSTS event season!

I had the opportunity to visit the Philadelphia Comic Con on June 1st and was fortunate to meet with the crews from Philadelphia, New York and Pittsburgh who staffed fan tables there as well as the organizers from Raleigh and Arlington. There were Browncoats everywhere!

I lost count of the Jayne Hats, Firefly themed tee shirts and various costumes. I saw lots of Captain Mals and Kaylees; in fact a most unforgettable Kaylee with a thick beard and a magnificent handlebar mustache eating a strawberry. Gina, Adam, Jewel and Summer were guests at the con and there were long lines for autographs and photo opportunities. They were gracious enough to autograph some stuff for our CSTS auction.… Read more…

Can’t Stop the Serenity Flies with a Screening in Vancouver

On Saturday, May 25th, Vancouver returns with their 8th Annual CSTS Screening.

But they’re not sitting on their laurels. This year promises to be better than ever.
There is a scavenger hunt on now, with the winner to be announced at the screening.

Jewel Staite dropped by to sign all sorts of items for the auction. She has even offered to record a ringtone for some successful bidder!
There is trivia bingo, and since it is Towel Day there will even be some Vorgon poetry! There’s an Evil Laugh contest, a screening of Dr. Horrible’s Singalong Blog and more!

And of course, Serenity itself. It all starts at 12:30 and details can be found here or here.Read more…

We Have Prizes!

Three wonderful 2013 calenders have been donated to CSTS and we want you to have one. Even though some of the year is gone, we think you won’t mind when you see the pictures!
One is a Xena Princess Warrior calender and the other is Supernatural.

How do you enter? If you are on Twitter, just retweet an @CSTS or @EqualityNow tweet, then send us a tweet and tell us which calender you would like. Include the hashtag #signal

If you are on Facebook, share one of our posts or one of Equality Now’s and again, let us know you did it, and which calender you would like.

The contest will run from now till the end of Wed. May 1, Pacific Time.

Retweet and/or Share as often as you like.… Read more…

Can’t Stop the Serenity 2013 gets off to a great start

This Saturday April 20 there is 2 events in 2 countries, doing what we do best.
Raising money for charity and having fun while doing it.

The Tidewater Browncoats in Norfolk, Virginia have the first screening of the Season. They will be showing Dr. Horrible’s Sing a long Blog, Mikey Mason is doing not one but two sets and new this year is Comedian James Rodatus. There will be many funny videos and last and certainly not least, the movie itself. Serenity. Proceeds go to Equality Now and Samaritan House.
Costumes are encouraged and you can buy tickets at the door.

Up Canada way, the Alberta Browncoats are starting with an Affiliate event at Happy Harbour Comics in Edmonton. Watch Dr. Horrible and some great videos of the nerdy kind.… Read more…

Did you know your support of Can’t Stop the Serenity helps Equality Now end global and local sex trafficking?

As we launch into another season of Can’t Stop the Serenity, you may find yourself being asked why you attend these events and what your support means. You may even be asking this of yourself. Can’t Stop the Serenity is not just about watching Serenity on the big screen, enjoying the company of Browncoats, and winning prizes is raffles, contests and auctions. It’s much bigger than that.

Being part of Can’t Stop the Serenity – as an organizer, a sponsor or an attendee – means that you are helping to put a stop to violence and discrimination. By using your voice and opening your wallet, you are helping to change the world for the better. For each friend you tell about the work of Equality Now, you are adding a voice to the chorus for change.… Read more…

A Good Excuse

So you want to have a shindig with your fellow Browncoats. But everyone is so busy and it’s hard to agree on a time or a place. And everyone is well meaning but nothing ever quite gets off the ground.

Do we have just the thing for you! Hold a Can’t Stop the Serenity Event! It’s BIG (or small), Splashy (or sedate). We will help you promote it and it will be the event to attend!

Think about it. You get to see Serenity if you choose to do a full screening, or with an Affiliate event, Dr Horrible and a whole slew of other videos we got permission to show this year. You are surrounded by fellow Browncoats and anyone else you choose to invite.… Read more…

Over $800,000 raised over 7 Years!

In the 2012 year, Can’t Stop The Serenity raised $110,465.98 for Equality Now and 19 other charities. This brings our total to over $800,000.00 U.S. over the last 7 years. New cities joined the cause and we had events in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States

With Equality Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, we are especially pleased to be able to donate in this banner year.

Thank you to all our sponsors, organizers, and participants, for contributing to this tremendous success!

We deeply appreciate your commitment and generosity in helping us to support the rights of women and girls worldwide.… Read more…

Registration is now open for 2013

Registrations is now open for the 2013 Can’t Stop The Serenity screening season.

We’ve made a couple of changes we think you will like. The event window now starts April 1st and goes until Sept. 30.
We hope that this will give colleges, universities and other schools a better chance to run either a full screening or an Affiliate while school is still in. Cities that have a good sized school in their area can consider if they will get students if they hold their event in one of the spring months.

There are 2 kinds of events.
Screenings show Serenity and may or may not have a variety of other things as well, such as raffles, auctions, contests and other multimedia (pending licensing arrangements). The majority of CSTS events are Screening events.… Read more…

Message from Dave

Hello Browncoats! We’re coming up on our eighth year; who would
have believed that a grass roots movement based on a failed TV show and
a movie that barely broke even would have lasted this long or done so
much good.

A guy had an idea and others bought into it, nurtured it and
now here we are. I don’t know the names of all the plank owners, the
organizers of the first events, but one day I will and if I ever meet
you I’ll certainly buy the first round.

We’ve been asking around for ways to make things better and we’ve received some good ideas.
First, the registration process is being streamlined.
Second,we’re going to open up the event window to include April and May.… Read more…

Introducing Dave Catoe, our new Global Event Coordinator for 2013

As the 2012 CSTS season comes to a close, we’re excited to announce that Dave Catoe will be taking over the reins for 2013!


Dave Catoe - 2013 GECDave hails from Norfolk, Virginia, is a member of the Tidewater Browncoats and has been the lead organiser of CSTS Norfolk since 2010. He’s found a great mother/daughter team to take over the running of the local event, and is keen to put his energy into the global role. As a retired air traffic controller, he’s got a real handle on managing the stresses that may come with the job, and as an ex-marine he’s more than up for the challenge. And of course, he loves Firefly, Serenity and Equality Now! He first discovered Firefly in 2005 after catching “Our Mrs Reynolds” on the SciFi channel – he ran straight out and bought the box set that same evening!… Read more…

Watch the 2012 CSTS Intro Video

During the CSTS 2012 Season, attendees at the screenings were treated to a special introductory video.

Well known Whedon actors welcome the fans to the screening, and thank them for attending. Didn’t get a chance to go to a screening this year? No worries! We have now put the video up on our YouTube channel for all to see. Sean Maher, Tahmoh Penikett, Amy Acker, Jane Espensen, and artist Jason Palmer guest star.

The video also includes the piece “When We Speak, written by Joss Whedon and performed at the 20th Anniversary Fundraiser for Equality Now.

The global team would like to offer our special thanks to all those who contributed to the video, and to Liam Merrick for pulling it all together.

Check out our YouTube Channel for more videos, including past Global Intros and content from Equality Now on their 20th Anniversary.… Read more…

The 2013 Auction has Begun

Our Global Auction for Equality Now have begun! This is your chance to get your hands on some amazing Whedonverse collectables and more, while helping a wonderful cause.

Go here -http://bit.ly/TxTYEj

How about a silver Jewellry box which Gina Torres gave to the cast & crew during the filming of Firefly?

Or a Fanny pack which Sarah Michelle Gellar and Alyson Hannigan gave to the Buffy crew at Christmas, 1998.
These are both incredibly rare.

The Avengers make their appearance with 2 full sized, double sided Movie posters along with a hard to find Dollhouse poster. You might also be interested in some of the official Avengers swag.

Maybe you are more into nifty crafts. Then you’ll love our Big Damn Heroes created as knit dolls.Read more…

We are having an Auction, starting Nov. 3rd

As the CSTS 2012 season comes to a close, we’ve got one last piece of awesome to share with you. Thanks to a whole host of fantastic Browncoats, we’re excited to announce the 2012 Can’t Stop the Serenity Global Auction! It starts Saturday Nov. 3rd and runs till the following Saturday, Nov. 10th. We’ll announce the URL soon.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the items up for grabs…

  • Jane Espenson donated two shooting scripts for the Firefly episode Shindig which she wrote. Can anyone resist bidding on these? We don’t think so!
  • For Christmas 2008 Sarah Michelle Gellar and Alyson Hannigan gave the Buffy crew a fanny pack with the name of the show, Sarah & Alyson’s names and the date embroidered on the pack.
Read more…

Deadline extended for 2013 CSTS Art Contest voting

The voting window has been extended for the 2013 CSTS Art Contest! This is your last chance to have your say on which design will represent CSTS for the 2013 season.


Voting will now close on 28 October 2012 at 11:59 PM PST.


To have your say, click here to see the designs and cast your vote!


So vote now for your favourite and spread the signal!

Read more…

We want your vote on next year’s artwork!

We sent the signal out to create the promotional art for next year’s events, and here they are! Thank you to everyone who submitted an entry (or two!) to the 2013 Can’t Stop The Serenity Art Contest.


We know it’s going to be a challenge, but we need you, the good folk of the ‘Verse, to help us choose which one will become the official artwork for Can’t Stop the Serenity 2013!


To have your say, all you need to do is click here to see the great designs and cast your vote!


You can only vote once and you’ve only got until 21 October 2012 at 11:59 PM PST to get your voice heard and your vote counted. So vote and then tell your friends to spread the word and come help us choose the best of the best.… Read more…

A Special Thank You to our Art Crew!

Can’t Stop the Serenity has been extremely lucky to work with some amazing artists over the years, and it’s our pleasure to thank the 2012 crew! Phil (with the assistance of Karen) have been hard at work all year, turning this year’s promotional artwork contest winners design into art suitable for t-shirts, posters, patches, web-banners and more. And Liam has pulled off yet another fantastic Global Intro Video, which featured cast and crew plus a very moving piece on Equality Now.


As we wind down from the 2012 season, let’s hear a little from two of the team…


Phil Towle, Art Director for Can’t Stop the Serenity 2012….

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away… Oh wait, wrong galaxy. My love of Sci Fi started, like many, when as a kid I wanted nothing more than to be a Jedi (occasionally Han Solo).

Read more…

Time’s ticking down for the Global Promo Art Contest! Entries close October 14

The closing date for the 2013 CSTS Global Promo Art Contest is drawing near! This is your chance to design the logo that will represent Can’t Stop the Serenity 2013, featuring on Twitter, Facebook, T-shirts and promoting all manner of local events. All of the details for the contest are here and entries close on 14 October 2012. So get those creative juices flowing and be part of the fun!


Read more…

A Special Thank You to our Communications & Web Crew!

As we finish up another fine season of Can’t Stop the Serenity, we’d like to send a special Thank You to the folks who keep things ticking along smoothly from behind the scenes. CSTS been fortunate to have some wonderful people on the Global Team over the years, and the 2013 Team have been fantastic!

This year, we’ve had the pleasure of working with three amazing women who have been the backbone of our “front line” of CSTS by managing the website, social media and communications. So here’s a moment-in-the-spotlight for Lioness, Jacque and Julia – our dedicated Communications & Web Crew!

Lioness – Communications Director, Shepherd and overall Lady of Awesome – tell us a little about what you do…

As Communications Director and Shepherd, I’m been talking within – to the Browncoats running the screenings around the world- and without – talking to the wide world about CSTS.

Read more…

Why would you volunteer to be the CSTS Global Events Coordinator? William shares his story…

It’s always inspiring to meet the incredible people who take on the role of the Can’t Stop the Serenity Global Events Coordinator each year. And for the past two years, that fine outstanding citizen has been one William Pace. It’s been a delight to have William as our “Captain” for the past two years, and it is with sadness that we see him leave the role. However, we wish him the best with his new little Browncoat-in-Training needing the lions share of his attention! Thank you William! As he says farewell to his term as GEC, we asked him what made him put up his hand.

First, to understand why I’m here, you have to understand why I’m a Browncoat.



I’m one of the rare ‘first fans’ that tuned in to watch Firefly when the series debuted with ‘Train Job’.

Read more…

Nominations are now open to join the 2013 Global Team

Can’t Stop the Serenity 2013 wants you!


Do you to help guide Can’t Stop the Serenity towards a bright future and make 2013 happen? Do you know someone who would like to be involved at a global level? Nominations are now open for roles on 2013 Global Team!



Can’t Stop the Serenity is organised entirely by volunteers who work side by side with local event organisers to make each year’s events a success. We’re looking for dedicated, passionate, talented folks to join us. It’s fun, rewarding and a great experience!



Nominations are now open for 2013 Global Event Coordinator and Team Roles, and will be taken until 28 October 2012. The application process for each position is provided here. Applications must be submitted via email to gsc@cantstoptheserenity.comRead more…

Final Weekend of CSTS Events

The last weekend of Can’t Stop The Serenity events sees us end with a bang as five screenings and an Affiliate event take place in the US and Canada.

Salt Lake City has an afternoon of fun planned for Sept. 29th with a Costume Contest, raffle and of course Serenity. Since it is a Cinema pub you must be 21 with ID to enter.

Edmonton, AB is showing all episodes of the Guild – at the Whedon friendly comic book store Happy Harbour Comics. The fun gets underway at 10:30. Details at the website.

Can’t Stop The Serenity – Orange County is back for their 5th year with Serenity, Dr. Horrible and new this year, live music from “Hello, the Future” which includes Firefly filk. There will also be an auction of collectibles and of course, prizes!… Read more…

Design our next logo! It’s time for the 2013 CSTS Promo Art Contest!

The Can’t Stop The Serenity promotional art contest is back for 2013!


In its seven-year history, Can’t Stop The Serenity has raised more than half a million dollars for Equality Now. We can do even more good works this year, but only if people show up! That’s where you come in. Since we’ve been doing this for more than half a decade now, the novelty factor has worn off, which means it’s more important than ever before to build excitement for CSTS. The annual logo, poster and t-shirts are critical tools for raising awareness about the event, building excitement, and getting people into theaters around the world.



Think you’ve got what it takes to design this year’s official promotional artwork? Then read on to learn the rules for this year’s contest:



THE SHINY STUFF:


The winner’s artwork will be used as the basis for the T-shirt and promos for the 2013 CSTS season.… Read more…

Big Weekend Coming Up

CSTS cities are out in full force this weekend with events in 3 countries.

Tucson, AZ has a raffle, a costume contest, local sci-fi/steampunk webisodes, some gaming, Dr. Horrible and Serenity, all in one evening. It will be held at the historic Fox theater.

Bristol in the UK also has a Serenity screening as well as a look back at the TV show, Chuck. When it is over, everyone will repair to the pub nearby.

Up in Canada, Toronto, On is also showing Dr.Horrible as well as the Guild. There will also be door prizes and a mini auction.

Philadelphia is having their Dr. Horrible screening on Sunday Sept. 23rd which will include games, a costume contest and a raffle.… Read more…

Why Smart Pop Books supports CSTS

We asked our sponsors why they support Can’t Stop The Serenity.

Leah Wilson, Editor-in-Chief of Smart Pop replies:

My favorite part of working on BenBella’s Smart Pop titles is the
contact we get to have with fandom — with the people who devote their
time and energy to not only building community, but doing good on
behalf of the books and shows and films they love.

It’s a (wonderful) inevitability that communities bear strong
resemblance, especially in values, to the properties that inspire
them. And so the strongest fan communities grow up around properties
that value community. The communities who most strongly reach out to
help others are the communities whose heroes do the same.

We’re proud to support Can’t Stop the Serenity not just because of
Equality Now (as incredibly worthwhile an organization as it is!).… Read more…

The Global Sci-Fi Charity Event | Worldwide Charity Screenings for Equality Now