Welcome
Representing the icons of animation and the architects of our childhood
Make your convention ZANY TO THE MAX by inviting these hilarious and informative guests!
Our talented roster:
Paul Dini
Paul Dini is a legendary writer and producer best known for his influential work in animation and comics, particularly within the DC Universe. He was a key creative force behind Batman: The Animated Series, where he co-created the beloved character Harley Quinn (alongside artist Bruce Timm). His writing helped redefine Batman and his rogues' gallery for a generation, blending noir storytelling with emotional depth.
Dini has also contributed significantly to other animated hits such as Superman: The Animated Series, Justice League, and Batman Beyond. His storytelling combines sharp dialogue, character-driven plots, and a deep respect for comic book lore.
Outside DC, he’s contributed to shows like Tiny Toon Adventures, Duck Dodgers, Freakazoid! and even video games like the Batman: Arkham series.
Tom Ruegger
Tom Ruegger is the fourteen-time Emmy-winning creator, producer, writer, and showrunner of beloved animated TV series including Animaniacs, Pinky and the Brain, Tiny Toon Adventures, Road Rovers, and Histeria! As the creator of Animaniacs, Tom served as senior producer, showrunner, story editor, writer, and lyricist on the series. He developed, produced, showran, and wrote Freakazoid! as well, and served as executive producer and writer on Batman: The Animated Series. Tom also created and produced A Pup Named Scooby-Doo for Hanna-Barbera Productions. For Disney Television Animation, he developed, produced, wrote, and showran Disney’s The 7D.
Paul Rugg
Paul Rugg co-developed and was the voice of Freakazoid in Steven Spielberg Presents: Freakazoid!. Paul was one of the original writers of Animaniacs and helped develop the characters of Yakko, Wakko, and Dot, writing over 40 episodes! Paul also provided the voice of Mr. Director, a Jerry Lewis-esque character and frequent victim of the Warners’ antics.
He was also the voice of Ned, the 7 foot tall, blue-skinned alien who hosts the Jim Henson Company’s Earth To Ned, featured on Disney+
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Mitch Schauer
Mitch Schauer is a versatile figure in animation. He helmed Nickelodeon's hit The Angry Beavers as creator and executive producer. He crafted scripts, composed music, and directed voices for all 62 episodes, maintaining high ratings that rivaled Rugrats. Previously, he snagged an Emmy at Warner Bros. Animation for producing Freakazoid! His expertise later extended to Marvel projects like Super Hero Squad and Hulk and the Agents of S.M.A.S.H. He’s also directed two Marvel movies on Disney+ and recently wrapped up work on Netflix’s CG animated feature The Soccer / Football Movie.
Steve and Julie Bernstein
Julie Bernstein, a four-time Emmy winner, is a versatile talent in animation, excelling as a composer, orchestrator, arranger, conductor, and singer. Her work features prominently in beloved series like Animaniacs, Freakazoid!, and Pinky and the Brain, as well as in films such as Wakko’s Wish and Tom and Jerry: Blast Off to Mars. She’s made significant contributions to Grammy-nominated albums and collaborated with her husband, Steven Bernstein, on indie film scores like Would I Lie to You and Song of David.
Steven Bernstein, a five-time Emmy recipient, shares Julie’s prominence in animation music, having contributed to hits like Animaniacs and The Boys: Diabolical. Beyond animation, Steven’s talents extend to major Hollywood films as a conductor and orchestrator, including notable titles like Skyfall and The Amazing Spider-Man. He’s also recognized for his concert works, with notable achievements such as a 2nd place win in the American Prize competition for his cantata. Together, they’ve showcased their talents through live performances of the Animaniacs Reboot Suite.