Unconferences – maybe we apply some of this to Wax?

I read about the “unconference” movement about a year ago – but I have yet to attend one. Although, many of more local or smaller events such as mashup event etc apply a similar ethos or style. i like the vibe of:

• No passive attendees
• No pitching
• All Q&A all the time
• Debate
• Share what really works and what doesn’t

Anyway, I’ve helped organize 3 invitation only insider search summits (with no conference fees) and we are now looking to organize a new break away event later this year. So, I was hunting around for ideas and this led me back to the unconferences for inspiration on ways to run a conference (the facilitation links on wiki are good). I’d like to get input in the good and the bad of conferences (or summits) – so comments please!

The Wax (which is a code name) will be a small (25 people), intense but and fun! So, far we know it will involve a flash keynote (or Lightning Talk), speed dating, a debate, adventure activity (think safari) and knowledge cafe. The participants will have to travel far to get there so everyone will be fully engaged. What else should we do? Maybe a demo lab and a fishbowl (instead of the debate or in addition)? Right, I need to get back to working on the outline and then time to book that safari.

UPDATE: From “The father of modern-day content distribution.”  here is some more support – Rethinking the conference - for following this type of format for all conferences.