Dark Horse brings Top Talent to ReedPOP’S C2E2 2014

Press Release:

DARK HORSE BRINGS TOP TALENT TO REEDPOP’S C2E2 2014 IN CHICAGO APRIL 25 – 27

Acclaimed Comics Publisher Hosts Gail Simone and Other Famous Artists and Writers in Panels, Booth Appearances and Signings

Scott Allie to Lead Discussion in Three Panel Presentations

Norwalk, CT, April 15, 2014: Dark Horse Comics, the renowned comics publisher, will have a major presence at the upcoming C2E2 which is organized by ReedPOP, the leading producer of pop culture events. ReedPOP officials note that in addition to a large booth centrally located on the show floor, Dark Horse plans to host three panels featuring Gail Simone, Art Baltazar, and Geoff Darrow, among other top talent who will also be appearing on panels and in the Dark Horse booth to greet fans. In addition, the publisher notes that it will have many giveaways, lots of free comics, and back to back free signings all day every day. Dark Horse Editor-in-Chief Scott Allie will host the panels and will lead discussion on a range of subjects sure to please the thousands of fans who annually attend the leading pop culture event. C2E2 will take place in Chicago, April 25 – 27 in the South Building at McCormick Place Convention Center.

“It is fantastic that Dark Horse is bringing so much talent and creative energy to our show,” notes Lance Fensterman, Global Vice President for ReedPOP. “C2E2 has grown enormously since our first show five years ago and while it’s cool to know that we have built an event where top artists, writers and other creative talent in the comics world can mingle comfortably with so many fans, none of it would have been possible without the support of leading publishers like Dark Horse. I am grateful to them for all the talent and entertainment they provide. This year is their best ever!”

The Dark Horse panel presentations include:

Title: Dark Horse Presents: Gail Simone
Date: Friday, April 25th
Time: 1:30 – 2:30 PM

Gail Simone has been making waves since her arrival on the comics scene with a column on Comic Book Resources. Since then, she has written some of the most iconic runs on such titles as Birds of Prey, Batgirl, Red Sonja, and most recently Tomb Raider for Dark Horse. In honor of this new ongoing, and the collection of her Kickstarter-funded Leaving Megalopolis series, Dark Horse Editor-in-Chief, Scott Allie leads a career-spanning discussion on one of comics’ most accomplished writers.

Speakers:

Scott Allie
Gail Simone

Title: Aw Yeah, Dark Horse!
Date: Saturday, April 26th
Time: 3:00 – 4:00 PM

Art & Franco have taken some of comics’ most well-known characters and reimagined them for fans of all ages. To celebrate the anniversary last year’s announcement of the recently collected Itty Bitty Hellboy at C2E2, as well as the upcoming collection of this dynamic duo’s Kickstarter-funded Aw Yeah Comics!, we have put together an hour of fun, announcements, and much more! Bring your big ideas for a chance to woo Dark Horse EIC Scott Allie in the “one minute pitch!” Find out which Dark Horse characters the two will tack next, and much much more! This one is guaranteed to be fun for the whole fan family!

Speakers:

Art Baltazar
Franco Aureliani
Scott Allie
Jeremy Atkins

Title: Dark Horse Builds Characters
Date: Saturday, April 26th
Time: 5:30 – 6:30 PM

In 2014, comics are more diverse than ever, and Dark Horse continues to pride itself on producing the greatest serialized storytelling from some of the biggest names in the industry! From Hellboy to Buffy to Luke and Leia, some of the most iconic characters in comics and beyond call Dark Horse home. Join us as we talk character development with writers who tell their tales! Editor in Chief, Scott Allie is joined by Project Black Sky scribes Josh Williamson (Captain Midnight) and Joshua Hale-Fialkov (Skyman), as well comics legend, Geof Darrow (Shaolin Cowboy), Eric Powell (The Goon), Tim Seeley (Sundowners, The Occultist) and newcomer Donny Cates (Buzzkill) for insight, announcements, and much much more!

Speakers:

Scott Allie
Joshua Williamson
Joshua Hale-Fialkov
Geof Darrow
Eric Powell
Tim Seeley
Donny Cates

ABOUT REEDPOP
ReedPOP is a boutique group within Reed Exhibitions, which is exclusively devoted to organizing events, launching and acquiring new shows, and partnering with premium brands in the pop culture arena. ReedPOP is dedicated to producing celebrations of popular culture throughout the world that transcend ordinary events by providing unique access and dynamic personal experiences for consumers and fans. The ReedPOP portfolio includes: New York Comic Con (NYCC), Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2), Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) Prime, East and Australia, Star Wars Celebration, Special Edition: NYC, Oz Comic-Con and the UFC Fan Expo. In 2013 ReedPOP (has) added Star Wars Celebration Europe and PAX Australia to its rapidly expanding portfolio of international events. The staff at ReedPOP is a fan based group of professionals producing shows for other fans, thus making them uniquely qualified to service those with whom they share a common passion. ReedPOP is focused on bringing its expertise and knowledge to world communities in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia/Pacific (including Australia). (www.reedpop.com)

ABOUT DARK HORSE
Founded in 1986 by Mike Richardson, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the progressive and creator-friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent such as Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Brian Wood, Gerard Way, Geof Darrow, and Guillermo del Toro, and comics legends such as Will Eisner, Neal Adams, and Jim Steranko, Dark Horse has developed its own successful properties, including The Mask, Ghost, Timecop, and SpyBoy. Its successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Mass Effect, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Halo, Serenity, The Legend of Zelda, Game of Thrones, and Domo. Today Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic book publisher in the US and is recognized as one of the world’s leading publishers of both creator-owned content and licensed comics material.

Dark Horse Announces Exclusive WonderCon 2014 Variants

Press Release:

DARK HORSE ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE WONDERCON 2014 VARIANTS!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MILWAUKIE, OR —As the pop culture world gears up for this year’s WonderCon in Anaheim, CA, Dark Horse announces two special variant covers for this year’s show!

First up, Dark Horse brings an all-new variant cover for a critical hit and fan favorite, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, with an exclusive Season Ten first-issue cover by Tomb Raider art director Brian Horton! Limited to 1,000 copies, these are sure to be scarce!

Second is a variant for Angel & Faith Season Ten #1, by Buffy cover artist Steve Morris! Again, with only 1,000 copies produced, these will go fast!

These two special WonderCon exclusives will retail for $5 and are limited to five per person.

Dark Horse also has three other convention exclusives, produced in limited editions and available while supplies last!

Legendary artist Stan Sakai has done a special cover for the upcoming The Witcher, a canonical tie-in series in the world of the Witcher video games, which have collectively won over 250 awards and sold more than 5.5 million copies worldwide! All proceeds from the sale of this limited-edition variant will benefit Stan and Sharon Sakai.

Art Baltazar and Franco bring you the characters that sprung from Mike Mignola’s imagination, with an AW YEAH twist, in Itty Bitty Hellboy! A limited-edition hardcover is available at WonderCon for $20, while supplies last!

The Last of Us: American Dreams, from Faith Erin Hicks (The Adventures of Superhero Girl) and Naughty Dog’s Neil Druckmann, collects the comics that are the official lead-in to the game. This limited-edition hardcover will first be available at PAX East this weekend, and then in very limited quantities at WonderCon for $24.99.

About Dark Horse

Founded in 1986 by Mike Richardson, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the progressive and creator-friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent, such as Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Brian Wood, Gerard Way, Felicia Day, and Guillermo del Toro, and comics legends, such as Will Eisner, Neal Adams, and Jim Steranko, Dark Horse has developed its own successful properties, such as The Mask, Ghost, Timecop, and SpyBoy. Its successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Mass Effect, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, EVE Online, Halo, Serenity, Game of Thrones, and Domo. Today Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic book publisher in the US and is recognized as one of the world’s leading publishers of both creator-owned content and licensed comics material.

BOOM! Studios Goes Coast-to-Coast with Awesome Con AND WonderCon 2014

Press Release:

BOOM! STUDIOS GOES COAST-TO-COAST WITH AWESOME CON AND WONDERCON, APRIL 18-20, 2014

April 9, 2014 – Los Angeles, CA – Award-winning comic book publisher BOOM! Studios announced today it will exhibit at both Awesome Con in Washington, D.C. and WonderCon in Anaheim, California, during the weekend of April 18-20, 2014.

At Awesome Con, which will be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., BOOM! can be found at booth number 421. They will host the following creators all weekend:

Brooke Allen (LUMBERJANES)
Ian McGinty (ADVENTURE TIME: CANDY CAPERS)
Jerry Gaylord (LOKI: RAGNAROK & ROLL, FANBOYS VS. ZOMBIES)
In addition, an Awesome Con exclusive variant cover of ADVENTURE TIME 2014 ANNUAL #1 illustrated by Ian McGinty will be sold through the convention. Starring baby versions of Fionna and Cake, this is the first-ever horizontal ADVENTURE TIME issue!

For tickets and more information on Awesome Con, visit awesomecondc.com.

At WonderCon, which will be held at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California, BOOM! Studios can be found at booth number 319. They will host the following creators at the booth all weekend:

Eric M. Esquivel (LOKI: RAGNAROK AND ROLL, BRAVEST WARRIORS, FREELANCERS)
Megan Hutchison (AN AURORA GRIMEON STORY: WILL O’ THE WISP)
Michael Alan Nelson (DAY MEN, 28 DAYS LATER, PROTOCOL: ORPHANS)
Mike Kunkel (HEROBEAR AND THE KID)
Noelle Stevenson (LUMBERJANES, ADVENTURE TIME)
In addition, signings with the following creators are scheduled:

FRIDAY, April 18
2-3 p.m. R.J. Ryan (THE JOYNERS IN 3D)
5-6 p.m. Claudio Sanchez and Chondra Echert (TRANSLUCID, AMORY WARS, KEY OF Z, KILL AUDIO) – This is a ticketed signing. Tickets are only available at the BOOM! Studios booth whille supplies last on the day of the specified signing.

SATURDAY, April 19
1-2 p.m. Steven Grant (2 GUNS, 3 GUNS, ROBOCOP, DECEIVERS)
3-4 p.m. Claudio Sanchez and Chondra Echert (TRANSLUCID, AMORY WARS, KEY OF Z, KILL AUDIO) – This is a ticketed signing. Tickets are only available at the BOOM! Studios booth whille supplies last on the day of the specified signing.
5-6 p.m. R.J. Ryan (THE JOYNERS IN 3D)

SUNDAY, April 20
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. R.J. Ryan (THE JOYNERS IN 3D)
1-2 p.m. Claudio Sanchez and Chondra Echert (TRANSLUCID, AMORY WARS, KEY OF Z, KILL AUDIO) – This is a ticketed signing. Tickets are only available at the BOOM! Studios booth whille supplies last on the day of the specified signing.)
3:30-4:30 p.m. Natasha Allegri (ADVENTURE TIME: FIONNA & CAKE, BEE AND PUPPYCAT)

In addition, the BOOM! Studios booth will host sketch artists all weekend, including:
Hannah Nance Partlow (ADVENTURE TIME: CANDY CAPERS)
Kassandra Heller (ADVENTURE TIME)
For $20, fans can request and purchase custom sketches to be drawn on blank ADVENTURE TIME Get-A-Sketch covers.

Special WonderCon exclusive variants will be available for purchase for:
BRAVEST WARRIORS 2014 ANNUAL #1 (cover by Sam Lavagnino, the voice of CatBug on the “Bravest Warriors” show!)
HEROBEAR AND THE KID: SAVING TIME #1 (cover by Mike Kunkel)
LUMBERJANES #1 (cover by Jess Fink)
TRANSLUCID #1 (cover by Dan Duncan)
BOOM! will present the following panels at WonderCon:

We Are BOOM!
Sat., April 19, 3:30 p.m., Room 208
Last year was a banner year for BOOM! highlighted by the release of our first feature 2 GUNS (starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg) and new first-look deal with 20th Century Fox. Archaia joined us as a new imprint, we expanded the all-ages KaBOOM! lineup, and launched our newest imprint, BOOM! Box. Join BOOM! Studios VP of Publishing and Marketing Filip Sablik and Editor-In-Chief Matt Gagnon as we share our mission to create the future of comics…now. We are BOOM! Come Innovate With Us.

Redefining All-Ages Comics
Sun., April 20, 11:30 a.m., Room 203
Join KaBOOM! Editor Shannon Watters as she moderates a lively discussion about the importance of all-ages comics in today’s market and teases what’s in store from the BOOM! Studios imprint in 2014. We’re not just talking about “kids” comics, we’re talking about amazing comics that can be enjoyed by young, old, and everyone in between! Adding to the discussion are all-ages creators Mike Kunkel (HEROBEAR AND THE KID), Natasha Allegri (ADVENTURE TIME: FIONNA AND CAKE), and Noelle Stevenson (ADVENTURE TIME)! Bring the whole family and discover comics to share!

For aspiring artists, BOOM! will participate in the following portfolio reviews at WonderCon:

Sat., April 19, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Room 206 B
With Assistant Editor Whitney Leopard and Editor Rebecca Taylor.

Sun., April 20, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Room 206 B
With Editor Shannon Watters.
For tickets and information for WonderCon, visit comic-con.org/wca.

ABOUT BOOM! STUDIOS
Founded by Ross Richie in 2005, Diamond Gem Award-winning “Best Publisher” BOOM! Studios (boom-studios.com) generates a constellation of best-selling Eisner and Harvey Award-winning original and licensed comic books and graphic novels with the industry’s top talent. BOOM! Studios is the home of Mike Carey’s SUICIDE RISK, Clive Barker’s NEXT TESTAMENT and HELLRAISER, Paul Jenkins and Humberto Ramos’ FAIRY QUEST, PLANET OF THE APES, Max Bemis’ POLARITY and Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE. Steven Grant’s graphic novel 2 GUNS was recently released as a feature film from Universal Pictures, starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. BOOM!’s all-ages imprint KaBOOM! publishes Charles Schulz’ PEANUTS, Jim Davis’ GARFIELD, Cartoon Network’s ADVENTURE TIME and REGULAR SHOW, Mike Kunkel’s HEROBEAR AND THE KID, and Roger Langridge’s Eisner Award-winning SNARKED. In June 2013, BOOM! acquired Archaia Entertainment (archaia.com). Archaia is the Eisner and Harvey Award-winning graphic novel publisher of MOUSE GUARD, COW BOY, GUNNERKRIGG COURT, RUST, SPERA, JIM HENSON’S TALE OF SAND, and many other great titles. In October 2013, BOOM! Studios entered into a unique first-look relationship with 20th Century Fox, giving the studio access to its library of titles and giving the publisher access to Fox’s vast catalog of films.

Connecticut ComiCONN adds more Comic Legends to 3 Day 2014 Event

Press Release:

Connecticut ComiCONN adds more Comic Legends to 3 Day Event!

Connecticut ComiCONN celebrates its 5th annual event with a move to the Webster Bank Arena and expands to a 3-Day event!

To meet the demands of its’ ever-growing fan base, Connecticut ComiCONN (a.k.a. ComiCONN) has moved to a larger venue and added additional days to its con to be held August 15-17 at the Webster Bank Arena in Bridgeport, CT.

ComiCONN has been providing fans of comic books, collectibles and cosplay an event to come out and celebrate their passion for years and is the Nutmeg State’s largest event of its kind. “ComiCONN has always been called “a show for the fans by the fans”, said ComiCONN organizer, Mitch Hallock, “For that reason we are assembling three days saluting the glory of comics with some of their greatest creators”.

This year’s confirmed guests for the show include: George Perez, David Finch, Jose Luis Garcia Lopez, Klaus Janson, Neal Adams, Denny O’Neil, Keith Giffen, Bob Layton, Lee Weeks, Franco, Howard Porter, Jerry Ordway, J.M. DeMatteis, Chris Giarrusso, Ann Nocenti, Rich Buckler, Frank McLaughlin, Paul Kupperberg, Tom Raney, Scott Hanna, Arthur Suydam, Howard Mackie, Ryder Windham, Bob Wiacek, Mark McKenna, Jamal Igle, Billy Tucci, Adam Wallentta, Todd Dezago, Jack Purcell, Melissa Benson, Bob Camp, Jim Salicrup, Danny Fingeroth and more. In addition to comic writers and artists, pop culture fans will be able to meet actors

As usual ComiCONN offers fans a shopping mecca for modern and vintage comic books, toys, movie props and memorabilia, artwork and gaming supplies. ComiCONN will also host panels, live music, costume and trivia contests for kids and adults and a whole lot more. Interested exhibitors can visit the website and learn on how to obtain spaces for this year’s giant-sized ComiCONN!

In the coming weeks, look for more announcements from the Connecticut ComiCONN. The latest developments can always be found on our website www.comiconn.com , Twitter, and Facebook pages.

Long Beach Comic Con Announces New Logos, Websites, and Extended Event Date for 2014

 

Press Release:

Long Beach Comic Con Announces Freshly Inked Logos, Websites, and Extended Event Date

Mark your Calendars:
Long Beach Comic Expo is May 31 – June 1, and
Long Beach Comic Con is September 27 – 28

Long Beach, CA (April 4, 2014) – Long Beach Comic Con organizers are proud to announce a freshly redesigned Long Beach Comic Con website and logo in celebration of its six years of comic conventions in Long Beach. Along with the growing popularity of its Long Beach Comic Expo, organizers are also excited to announce an entirely new website dedicated its spring event along with a fresh new logo to match.

Both websites for Long Beach Comic Con and Long Beach Comic Expo, feature a user-friendly interface, updated contemporary designs, and added information regarding its spring and fall conventions. Both websites are accessible from each other. Check out the new designs at: LongBeachComicCon.com and LongBeachComicExpo.com.

Long Beach Comic Expo has also expanded from a one-day event to an entire weekend-event thanks to the support from fans, special guests and exhibitors who have made this one the most popular spring comic conventions in Southern California. Long Beach Comic Expo takes place Saturday, May 31 and Sunday, June 1.

The consumer comic book convention known as the Long Beach Comic & Horror Con since 2011 was a nod to their dates near Halloween. With their move to September 27-28 this year, organizers have decided to go back to their roots and renamed their fall event the Long Beach Comic Con. The horror theme at the convention has firmly taken hold and will continue to be represented in future events.

“Long Beach Comic Con is always striving to keep our loyal fans and exhibitors happy by providing captivating special guest, panels, and vendors. We thought we would celebrate our six years of dedicated comic fans by updating the Long Beach Comic Con image with fresh websites and logos,” said Martha Donato, executive director and co-principal of the Long Beach Comic Con shows.

Enjoy a special weekend full of exceptional guests and exhibitors, and engaging panels, at Long Beach Comic Expo Saturday, May 31 from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm and Sunday, June 1 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm at the Long Beach Convention Center.

Long Beach Comic Con will take place this fall, Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28 at the Long Beach Convention Center. Tickets for both shows are available now through the website: www.longbeachcomiccon.com.

Follow on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and information.

About Long Beach Comic Expo
Long Beach Comic Expo has expanded for 2014 – it is now 2 days! Long Beach Comic Expo is Saturday, May 31 and Sunday, June 1, 2014. Long Beach Comic Expo is a true comic con focused on creating a unique experience that both fans and exhibitors in the Long Beach, Anaheim, and Los Angeles areas will enjoy. With something for everyone, Long Beach Comic Expo is at the Long Beach Convention Center. To learn more and purchase tickets, please visit www.longbeachcomicexpo.com.

About Long Beach Comic Convention
Long Beach Comic & Horror Con is now the Long Beach Comic Con! Long Beach Comic Con is Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28, 2014. Long Beach Comic Convention is a true comic con focused on creating a unique experience that both fans and exhibitors in the Long Beach, Anaheim, and Los Angeles areas will enjoy. Maintaining its horror theme, the Long Beach Comic Con has something for everyone. Long Beach Comic Convention takes place at the Long Beach Convention Center. To learn more and purchase tickets, please visit www.longbeachcomiccon.com.

Valiant Brings “Valiant First” to Wondercon 2014

Press Release:

VALIANT Brings VALIANT FIRST to WONDERCON 2014 with EXCLUSIVES, PANELS, SIGNINGS, and More!

From April 18th–20th, get the inside track on RAI, ARMOR HUNTERS, THE DELINQUENTS and the rest of Valiant’s power-packed VALIANT FIRST publishing line-up at WonderCon Anaheim 2014!

With special guests including James Asmus (writer – Quantum and Woody, The Delinquents), David Baron (colorist – Archer & Armstrong, Shadowman: End Times), Joshua Dysart (writer – Harbinger, Armor Hunters: Harbinger), and Robert Venditti (writer – Armor Hunters, X-O Manowar), stop by Booth #210/212 inside the Anaheim Convention Center for a weekend packed with special signings, free giveaways, and con-exclusive products you won’t find anywhere else – including the all-new Harbinger #22 “Death of a Renegade” WonderCon Exclusive Variant by red-hot artist Michael Walsh (Secret Avengers, Comeback)!

Limited to 500 copies, this WonderCon-exclusive release captures Valiant’s team of wayward teenage heroes just before they strike out into the pages of the most important Harbinger story ever told in “Death of a Renegade” – an all-new turning point beginning in April’s Harbinger #22 that will see one of the Renegades’ own fall…and change everything that follows in its wake.

Then, join an all-star panel of Valiant creators and staff on Saturday, April 19th at 11:30 AM PST in Room #203 for the VALIANT COMICS: INSIDE VALIANT FIRST panel presentation, spotlighting the biggest wave of must-read releases yet from one of the most acclaimed and in-demand publishers in comics today! What do you read FIRST? All summer long, Valiant will be rocketing to the top of your read pile with VALIANT FIRST – an all-new initiative unleashing a major #1 issue each month from May onward by some of the most talented creators in comics. And, with ARMOR HUNTERS, the Earth-shaking comic book event of 2014, just weeks away, check in here to find out what the future holds for Valiant’s award-winning heroes. Plus: get your first look at all-new news and artwork from RAI, THE DEATH-DEFYING DR. MIRAGE, UNITY, X-O MANOWAR, QUANTUM AND WOODY, HARBINGER, BLOODSHOT, and much more!

We’ll see you at WonderCon!

–

VALIANT ENTERTAINMENT – WONDERCON 2014 SIGNING SCHEDULE
BOOTH #210/212

Friday, April 18th:

4:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Robert Venditti, David Baron

Saturday, April 19th:

1:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Joshua Dysart
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Robert Venditti
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm: James Asmus
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm: David Baron

Sunday, April 20th:

12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Robert Venditti
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm: James Asmus
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm: David Baron

–

For more information, visit Valiant on Facebook, on Twitter, on Tumblr, and at ValiantUniverse.com.

For Valiant merchandise and more, visit ValiantStore.com.

For more information on WonderCon 2014, visit http://www.comic-con.org/wca.

Tampa Bay Comic Con to Debut Cartoon Convention in 2014

Press Release:

Tampa Bay Comic Con Announces Cartoon Convention

April 2nd, 2014 – The Tampa Bay Comic Con has announced a new spin-off event called the Cartoon Convention. The Cartoon Convention will spotlight American animation and live-action children’s programming. The creators and their works from studios such as Nickelodeon, Disney, Pixar, Cartoon Network, Warner Bros. and many others will be featured. The event will debut on November 8-9, 2014, at the Tampa Convention Center.

In attendance will be voice actors and animators from various animated features, as well as cast members from live-action children’s programming. Panels, Q&As and workshops will be featured at the event.

Single-day admission is $20 and a weekend pass is $30 for adults. Admission is FREE for children (12 and under).

Tampa Convention Center (west hall)
333 S Franklin St.
Tampa, FL 33602

www.cartoonconvention.com

Plans for Batman’s 75th Anniversary Include Variant Covers and an Art Exhibit at SDCC 2014

Press Release:

A Super Hero For Every Generation

Warner Bros. Entertainment and DC Entertainment Celebrate Batman’s 75th Anniversary

New Batman 75th Commemorative Logo Unveiled

To mark the milestone 75th anniversary of DC Comics’ Batman, Warner Bros. Entertainment and DC Entertainment have revealed plans for a year-long celebration befitting the world’s most popular Super Hero. Highlights of the anniversary program, which starts today, include a new commemorative 75th anniversary Batman logo and an exclusive “Cape/Cowl/Create” art exhibit, featuring 20 contemporary artists’ interpretation of The Dark Knight’s iconic cowl headpiece and cape from the upcoming Batman: Arkham Knight videogame. There will also be 75th anniversary-related activities across all of Warner Bros. Entertainment throughout the year.

First appearing in the comic book Detective Comics #27, which hit newsstands on March 30, 1939, featuring artwork by Bob Kane and a script by Bill Finger, Batman emerged from the shadows to become the world’s most popular Super Hero and dominate all media. In feature films, TV shows, radio, video games, publishing and merchandise, this most human of Super Heroes has battled some of fiction’s greatest villains using his intellect, cunning and an arsenal of gadgets to further his quest for justice.

“Batman is an incredibly important property with multi-generational appeal across all of the Studio’s businesses, and we’re proud to celebrate this milestone anniversary,” said Kevin Tsujihara, Chief Executive Officer, Warner Bros. Entertainment. “From billion-dollar blockbuster films to TV, home entertainment, video games and consumer products, The Dark Knight continues to resonate with audiences worldwide and rightfully deserves his place as a global pop culture icon for the ages.”

Batman is the single most successful Super Hero film franchise in history and there have been more theatrical movies released based on Batman than any other comic book character. In video games, the Batman Arkham franchise is also the most successful Super Hero game concept ever. Batman consistently breaks records in every incarnation of his character and remains the gold standard by which all other comic book sales are measured.

“Batman is one of the greatest characters ever created, in comics or elsewhere, and even after 75 years he continues to wildly fascinate fans. He is an integral part of pop culture and has successfully captured the imagination of the entire world,” said Diane Nelson, President of DC Entertainment and President & Chief Content Officer, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. “The origin of Batman, Bruce Wayne and the famous citizens of Gotham are legendary and likely a story you know inside out, even if you’ve never picked up a comic book in your life, and that speaks volumes to the character’s immense popularity and the constructs of the original mythology.”

The first published adventure of The Bat-Man (as he was then known) was in the May 1939 issue of Detective Comics #27, conceived of and drawn by a 22-year-old Kane with his frequent collaborator, Bill Finger, scripting the story. The character was so successful, that one year later the first comic book devoted exclusively to the Caped Crusader’s adventures, Batman #1, hit newsstands. In that issue, Batman battled The Joker and Catwoman for the first time.

Now, DC Entertainment and the Studio’s various divisions, including Pictures, Television, Animation, Interactive Entertainment, Home Entertainment and Consumer Products, will mark this extraordinary 75th anniversary with a range of highly anticipated events and products.

The new commemorative logo, also released today across social media and websites, takes its cue from the famed Bat symbol, and features block-style lettering of “75 Years.” The mark will be rolled out on Batman-related promotions, products and initiatives.

Key activities planned for the Batman 75th anniversary celebration include:

• DC Entertainment – DC Entertainment has an action-packed year filled with new Batman titles, commemorative issues and variant covers, including the recently released special edition of Detective Comics #27 commemorating Batman’s first appearance in the book in 1939, the new weekly series Batman Eternal launching April 9, and upcoming exclusive Batman variant covers planned for San Diego Comic-Con International in July.
• Batman Day – DC Entertainment is also partnering with thousands of comic retailers, book stores and libraries for “Batman Day” on Wednesday, July 23. Each location will host a Batman 75th anniversary celebration and offer fans a free, special edition Batman comic.
• Interactive Entertainment – Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment has invited celebrated fashion designer Asher Levine to create a cape and cowl based on the Batsuit of the recently announced Batman: Arkham Knight videogame developed by Rocksteady Studios. Favorite contemporary artists will have the opportunity to use the replicas as a blank canvas to produce their own, original interpretations of Batman’s iconic attire for an all new “Cape/Cowl/Create” art exhibit that will be showcased at San Diego Comic-Con International in July.
• Home Entertainment – Warner Bros. Home Entertainment will bring fans an array of new Batman titles throughout the year, including the highly anticipated release of the Batman ’66 TV series for the first time ever. Other new releases include animated films Son of Batman (May 6) and Assault on Arkham (summer 2014). Additionally, a 25th Anniversary Edition of Tim Burton’s Batman feature film will be released in the fall.
• Animation – Warner Bros. Animation has created two all-new Batman animated shorts set for debut in April, with fan-favorite producers Bruce Timm (Batman: The Animated Series) and Darwyn Cooke (Batman Beyond) each presenting a unique and familiar take on the Batman animated universe. In addition, Timm will participate in a Batman 75th all-star panel at WonderCon in Anaheim on Saturday, April 19, which will also feature an exclusive premiere of Cooke’s animated short based upon Batman Beyond.
• Television –Warner Bros. Television is in production on the pilot episode of the highly anticipated Gotham, a new one-hour drama for FOX which explores the origin stories of eventual police commissioner James Gordon and the villains that made Gotham City famous. In Gotham, Detective Gordon (Ben McKenzie – Southland) will encounter a familiar cast of characters – including a young Bruce Wayne – as he fights to keep the city safe. Executive producer Bruno Heller (The Mentalist, Rome) wrote the pilot, which is being directed by executive producer Danny Cannon (CSI series, Nikita)
• Pictures – As Batman’s 75th anniversary is celebrated in 2014, Warner Bros. Pictures will begin production of Zack Snyder’s untitled Superman/Batman film starring Henry Cavill, who reprises his role as Superman/Clark Kent, and Ben Affleck as Batman/Bruce Wayne. The film, slated for release summer 2016, will bring the two most iconic Super Heroes of all time together for the first time on the big screen.
• Consumer Products – Warner Bros. Consumer Products has partnered with an array of licensees to celebrate Batman’s 75th Anniversary through special edition and limited-release products. From the classic 1960s TV series to modern day comics, Batman’s presence will be larger than ever in celebration of his legacy through everything from toys to t-shirts.
• DCComics.com – For the latest information and exclusive content celebrating Batman’s 75th anniversary, visit www.Batman75.com. The dedicated section on DC Comics’ website launches today with the Batman 75 Sweepstakes which offers one lucky fan a one-of-a-kind prize package.

Hero Initiative Makes Its First Appearance at Wizard World St. Louis Comic Con in 2014

Press Release:

Hero Initiative makes its first ever appearance at Wizard World St. Louis!

LOS ANGELES, CA (March 24, 2014) Hero Initiative, the non-profit that aids comic creators in medical and financial need, is travelling to Wizard World St. Louis from April 4-6 at the America’s Center for the very first time!

Stop on by Hero’s booth, #1016, to check out all our great merchandise!

In addition, visit our Hero Initiative ambassadors throughout the con floor who will be collecting donations for our worthy cause! Creators include Cullen Bunn (C20), Mike Grell (1022), Jai Nitz (D21), Chris Samnee (D19), and Arthur Suydam (A20).

About The Hero Initiative

The Hero Initiative is the first-ever federally chartered not-for-profit corporation dedicated strictly to helping comic book creators in need. Hero creates a financial safety net for yesterday’s creators who may need emergency medical aid, financial support for essentials of life, and an avenue back into paying work. It’s a chance for all of us to give back something to the people who have given us so much enjoyment.

Since its inception, The Hero Initiative has had the good fortune to grant over $500,000 to the comic book veterans who have paved the way for those in the industry today. For more information, visit www.heroinitiative.org or call 626-676-6354.

Q&A Sessions, 75th Anniversary of Batman, Highlight Programming at Wizard World Louisville Comic Con 2014

Press Release:

Q&A Sessions With Matt Smith, Karen Gillan, Jason Momoa, Sean Astin, Evening Parties, 75th Anniversary Of Batman, Costume Contests Highlight Programming At Inaugural Wizard World Louisville Comic Con

James Marsters, Summer Glau, Dean Cain, Michael Rooker, Jason David Frank, Other Celebrity Q&A’s, Comics Creator Sessions, Film Festival, Marvel Trivia, ‘Kids Day’ Among Full Three Days Of Panels And Events

LOUISVILLE, Ky., March 20, 2014 – Question-and-answer sessions with top celebrities like Matt Smith and Karen Gillan of “Doctor Who,” Jason Momoa, Sean Astin and James Marsters, meet-and-greets, adult and kids costume contests, a discussion on the historic 75th anniversary of Batman, the Wizard World Film Festival and an array of comics and pop culture themed panels comprise the robust featured programming schedule at the inaugural Wizard World Louisville Comic Con, April 4-6 at the Kentucky International Convention Center. Most programming is included as part of the standard event admission.

Some of the highlights of the schedule include:

Interactive Q&A sessions with Smith (Sat., 6:15 p.m.), Gillan (Fri., 8:15 p.m.), Momoa (Sat., 1:30 p.m.), Astin (Sat., noon), Marsters (Sat., 1 p.m.), Summer Glau (Sat., 4 p.m.), Dean Cain (Sat., 11:30 a.m.), Michael Rooker (Sat., 3 p.m.), Jason David Frank (Sat., 2:30 p.m.), Manu Bennett (Sun., 1 p.m.) and other celebrities

Informative discussions with noted comics creators Michael Golden (Sun., 11:30 a.m.), Danny Fingeroth and Miles Fuller (Sat., 1 p.m.), Rob Prior (Sat., 2 p.m.) and more

“Batman at 75,” a discussion on the Caped Crusader led by Fingeroth, Fuller and Marco Arnaudo

Evening parties on Friday (“Wizard World Creator Pro Am,” 8:30 p.m.); Saturday (“Wizard World Official After Party,” 8:30 p.m.)

Costume contests for adults (Saturday, 7:15 p.m.) and kids (Sunday, 2:30 p.m.)

The Mighty Marvel Trivia Contest (Friday, 5 p.m.) with experts Fingeroth and Jacob Rougemont

Humorist panel with Kentucky native and Fark.com creator Drew Curtis (Friday 7 p.m.)

Wizard World Comic Con Film Festival, featuring selected shorts and music videos (Fri., Sat.)

Meet-and-greets with Frank (Sat., 11 a.m.; Sun., 11:30 a.m.), (paid events)

Kids Day (Sunday), with an array of kids and family activities designed just for the younger set, highlighted by the Green Ranger Power Hour with Frank (1:30 p.m.)

Unless noted, programming events take place in the designated General Programming Rooms at the Kentucky International Convention Center. VIP tickets or additional costs may apply to ensure access to select activities, as noted.

A full list of Wizard World Louisville Comic Con programming is below; further details on each at http://www.wizardworld.com/programming-louisville.html (subjects, guests, times and rooms subject to change):

Friday, March 28
5:00 – 5:45pm The Mighty Marvel Trivia Contest (Room 208)
5:00 – 8:00pm Wizard World Film Festival (Room 210)
6:00 – 6:45pm Costumes + Playing = Cosplay! So What Does That Actually Mean? (Room 208)
7:00 – 7:30pm Saving The World One Fake News Article At A Time With Drew Curtis (Room 208)
7:30 – 9:00pm Scream At The Screen (Room 208)
8:15 – 9:00pm Time-Traveling With Karen Gillan (Cascade B)
8:30 – 10:30pm Creator Pro Am: Drink And Draw (Maker’S Mark Bourbon House & Lounge, 446 S 4th St.) 21+ Only!

Saturday, March 29
11:00 – 11:45am Jason David Frank Meet And Greet – Paid Event (Room 206)
11:00 – 11:45am To Boldly Go: Star Trek: The Next Generation & Anthropology (Room 210)
11:00 – 11:45am The Strange World Of Abstract Comics (Room 213)
11:30 – 12:15pm One-On-One With The Man Of Steel: Dean Cain (Room 208)
12:00 – 12:45pm Out Of The Shire With Sean Astin (Cascade B)
12:00 – 12:45pm Vampire Lore And Other Urban Myths And Legends W/Dr. Rebecca Housel (Room 210)
12:00 – 12:45pm Superheroes, Psychology And Myth (Room 213)
12:30 – 1:15pm Dead Fans Walking (Room 208)
1:00 – 1:45pm One-On-One With James Marsters (Cascade B)
1:00 – 5:15pm The Wizard World Film Festival (Room 210)
1:00 – 1:45pm How To Write Comics With Danny Fingeroth And Miles Fuller (Room 213)
1:30 – 2:15pm One-On-One With A Dothraki Warlord: Jason Momoa (Room 208)
2:00 – 2:45pm How To Survive A Killer Tv Show (Cascade B)
2:00 – 2:45pm Mworld Creation With Rob Prior (Room 213)
2:30 – 3:15pm One-On-One With Jason David Frank: Power Ranger (Room 208)
3:00 – 3:30pm Michael Rooker Vs The Audience (Cascade B)
3:00 – 4:00pm Batman At 75 (Room 213)
4:00 – 4:30pm One-On-One With Summer Glau (Cascade B)
4:00 – 4:45pm All Things Pro Wrestling With Wrestlingaudio.Com (Room 208)
4:00-6:00pm Documentary Screening: “rude Dude: The Steve Rude Story” And Q & A With Director Ian Fischer (Room 213)
5:00 – 5:45pm Bigger On The Inside Doctor Who Fan Panel (Cascade B)
5:00 – 5:30pm One-On-One With Robert Hays (Room 208)
5:30 – 6:15pm Movie Match-Up (Room 210)
5:45 – 6:30pm Grimm Fairy Tales Animated (Room 208)
6:15 – 7:00pm One-On-One With The Doctor: Matt Smith (Cascade B)
7:00-7:45pm How To Roll Winning Numbers (Room 213)
7:15 – 9:15pm Wizard World Costume Contest (Cascade B)
8:30pm – Close Wizard World Official After Party (Howl At The Moon, 434 S 4th St) 21+ Only

Sunday, March 30
11:30 – 12:15pm Jason David Frank Meet And Greet – Paid Event (Room 206)
11:30am – 12:15pm Storytelling With Michael Golden (Room 210)
12:00 – 12:45pm Jon Heder Will Blow Your Mind (Room 208)
12:00 – 12:45pm Getting Respect: Comics Go To College(Room 213)
12:30 – 1:15pm Vampire Diaries/Originals Fan Panel (Room 210)
1:00-1:45pm One-On-One With Manu Bennett (Room 208)
1:00-1:45pm Another Kind Of Bat-Man: Comics And Baseball (Room 213)
1:30 – 2:30pm The Green Power Ranger Power Hour (Room 206)
1:30 – 2:15pm Super Power Beat Down (Room 210)
2:00 – 2:45pm One-On-Two With The Boondock Saints (Room 208)
2:00 – 2:45pm The Zombie Genre: Not Dead Yet (Room 213)
2:30 – 3:15pm Wizard World Kids Costume Contest (Room 210)

Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first served basis. We do not clear panel rooms unless you are seated in a section that is marked with a sign at the end of the row reading: ROW WILL BE CLEARED AT THE END OF EACH PANEL

Wizard World Comic Con events bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more. Wizard World Louisville Comic Con show hours are Friday, March 28, 3-8 p.m.; Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday, March 30, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

A first-class lineup of topical programming takes place all three days at the event, with celebrity Q&A’s, the Wizard World Film Festival, comics-themed sessions, costume contest, movie screenings, evening parties and more. Sunday, March 30, is also Kids Day, with an array of activities and programming specially designed for the younger Wizard World fans.

Louisville Comic Con is also the place for cosplay, with fans young and old showing off their best costumes throughout the event. Fans dressed as every imaginable character – and some never before dreamed – will roam the convention floor, often stopping by the Show Stage, the ideal place to see and be seen.

For more on the 2014 Wizard World Louisville Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-louisville.html.

About Wizard World:

Wizard World (OTCBB: WIZD) produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

Wizard World 2014 Schedule
January 24-26 – Wizard World Portland Comic Con
February 7-9 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
March 7-9 – Wizard World Sacramento Comic Con
March 28-30 – Wizard World Louisville Comic Con
April 4-6 – Wizard World St. Louis Comic Con
May 2-4 – Wizard World Minneapolis Comic Con
May 30-June 1 – Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con
June 19-22 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con
August 1-3 – Wizard World San Antonio Comic Con
August 21-24 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 12-14 – Wizard World Richmond Comic Con
September 26-28 – Wizard World Nashville Comic Con
October 2-4 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
October 31-November 2 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
November 7-9 – Wizard World Tulsa Comic Con
November 21-23 – Wizard World Reno Comic Con

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