​Interested in playing tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons, but not sure where to start? Join Counterspell Games and Behind the Screen for an interactive how to play workshop!

​Learn directly from Chris Vicari, an author, educator, and professional DM with years of experience both running games and teaching game theory, alongside Counterspell Founder Marnie Williams Noble, an avid TTRPG player, and experienced improviser.

​You'll leave the session with increased confidence when dropping into a one-shot game, joining a friend's campaign, or even trying your hand at becoming a future DM/GM!

☕️ Bonus roll: Josiah Forgath will be our tavern keeper extraordinaire, providing fresh and unique coffee brews to keep your energy going throughout the workshop.

​What you'll learn in this workshop:

​While TTRPGs span many systems, we will be focusing our interactive materials primarily on Dungeons & Dragons.

​⭐️ Real-world advice for new players, from choosing dice to filling out a character sheet, to role-playing and more.

​⭐️ The rule of cool for approaching TTRPGs, how to let scenes breathe, and how to move past the fear of playing something new!

​⭐️ Practical skills for approaching a game, understanding of how campaigns work, and more.

​📖 Get access to tips and guidance that inspired Chris Vicari's new book, Behind the Screen: A Dungeon Master’s Guide to Crafting Campaigns, releasing December 2026.

​There will be some light improv!

​🌟 You will be asked to try out different approaches to in-game role-play, so that you can find the player style you're most comfortable with. Expect some small group work. Don't worry, you won't be put on the spot unless you volunteer! When in doubt, bring a friend along with you! :)

​We'll see you in The Rift!

​

​​About Counterspell Games

​Counterspell Games was founded to make the magic of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) more inclusive, immersive, and flexible enough to fit your busy schedule. Whether it's your first time playing, or you slay dragons for breakfast, you'll love our in-person experiences!

​About Chris Vicari

​Chris is a Fordham faculty member, educational technologist, and certified Dungeon Master (DM) who teaches students how to use games to effect social change. His upcoming book, Behind the Screen: A Dungeon Master's Guide to Crafting Campaigns, walks readers through the craft of running TTRPGs. He shares ongoing work and writing through his Substack, Behind the Screen.

​About Welcome to Chinatown

​Welcome to Chinatown opened it's Small Business Innovation Hub in October 2024, a first-in-kind gathering space for the community to empower small businesses, build bridges, and champion sustainable growth.

​Please note:

​Due to the limited seating and rigorous planning that goes into creating events, we do not offer refunds at this time. (All ticket sales are final!)

​Feel free to message the hosts with any questions!

✏️ Counterspell Games art and stories are proudly human-made.