Wizard World Announces Programming for New Orleans Comic Con 2012 with Stan Lee, CM Punk, Etc.

Press Release:

Q&A’s With Stan Lee, Eliza Dushku, WWE® Superstar CM Punk®, Evening Parties, Screening, Creator Spotlights Highlight Programming At 2012 Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con 

Dean Cain, ‘Star Trek: TNG,’ ‘The Walking Dead’ Casts, Other Celebrities, Comics, Movies, TV Panels At Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Friday through Sunday

NEW YORK and NEW ORLEANS, November 26, 2012 – Interactive Q&A sessions with stars Stan Lee, Eliza Dushku, WWE® Superstar CM Punk®, Dean Cain and the casts of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and “The Walking Dead” are among the featured programming announced for this weekend’s Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, Friday through Sunday at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.  Sessions with stars like Michael Madsen, Kevin Eastman, Jason David Frank and others, supplemented by “Creator Spotlights” with leading artists, a screening of Madsen’s film Vice and evening parties on Friday and Saturday further bolster the most diverse panel schedule ever at the event.

Some of the more interesting sessions include:

• Interactive celebrity Q&A’s with Lee, Dushku, Punk, Cain, Madsen, Frank and others.
• Seven cast members of “Star Trek: TNG,” including Jonathan Frakes(Commander William T. Riker), LeVar Burton (Lt. Commander Geordi La Forge), Michael Dorn (Lieutenant Worf), Marina Sirtis (Counselor Deanna Troi), Brent Spiner (Lt. Commander Data), Gates McFadden (Dr. Beverly Crusher) and John de Lancie (Q).  This is a paid event requiring an additional admission.
• “The Walking Dead” stars Norman Reedus, Michael Rooker and Jon Bernthal discuss the popular AMC show.
• Unique, personal meet and greet with Lee (paid event).
• “Star Trek: TNG” breakout sessions featuring select actors from the series.
• Screening of the feature film Vice, with brief Q&A with star Madsen
• “Creator Spotlights” with industry giants Lee, Eastman, Jesus Saiz, Greg Capullo, Neal Adams and Ethan Van Sciver
• Comprehensive discussions of a wide range of topics from cosplay, special effects, vampires, zombies, the public library, Grimm’s Fairy Tales and more.
• Costume contests for adults (Saturday) and Kids (Sunday).
• Kids Day on Sunday, with a full slate of activities specially designed for the youngsters.

Unless noted, programming events take place in the designated General Programming Rooms on the second floor of the Morial Convention Center.  Most are included as part of standard Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con admission; VIP tickets or additional costs may apply to ensure access to select activities.  Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels.  Programming subject to change; attendees should check the schedule board on site and the Wizard Cons smartphone app for updates.

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

Friday, November 30
5:30 – 6:15pm Portfolio Review With David Macho (Booth #1031)
6:00 – 6:45pm Stan Lee Meet And Greet – Paid Event (Room 264)
8:00 – 11:00pm Wizard World Cosplay Drink & Draw (The Metropolitan @ 310 Andrew Higgins Dr.)

Saturday, December 1
11:00 – 11:45am Gates McFadden, Jonathan Frakes & Michael Dorn Q&A (Room 265)
11:00 – 11:45am Dean Cain Q&A (Room 272)
11:00 – 11:45am Cosplay 101 (Room 275)
11:00 – 11:45am The Artist’s Life (Room 279)
12:00 – 12:45pm Eliza Dushku Q&A (Room 265)
12:00 – 12:45pm Designing The Next Star Trek Television Show (Room 272)
12:00 – 12:45pm Basic Mold Making For Props And Special Effects Make-Up (Room 275)
12:30 – 1:15pm Stan Lee Meet And Greet – Paid Event (Room 264)
12:00 – 12:45pm Creator Spotlight: Jesus Saiz (Room 279)
1:00 – 2:00pm Portfolio Review With David Macho (Room 263)
1:00 – 1:45pm The Boondock Saints Q&A (Room 265)
1:00 – 1:45pm Vampire Lore And Other Urban Myths And Legends W/Dr. Rebecca Housel (Room 272)
1:00 – 1:45pm Starfleet – Beam Up! (Room 275)
1:00 – 1:45pm Zenescope: Grimm Fairy Tales Gets Busy And Animated In 2013 (Room 279)
2:00 – 2:45pm Kevin Sorbo Q&A (Room 272)
2:00 – 2:45pm 50 Years In The Tardis: The Many Faces Of Doctor Who (Room 275)
2:00 – 2:45pm David Mack: Creative Process Spotlight On Daredevil & Kabuki (Room 279)
3:00 – 3:45pm Creator Spotlight: Stan Lee (Room 265)
3:00 – 3:45pm WWE® Superstar CM Punk® Q&A (Room 272)
3:00 – 3:45pm Getting Graphic In The Library (Room 275)
3:00 – 3:45pm Star Trek: TNG Enterprise Bridge Restoration (Room 279)
4:00 – 4:45pm Stan Lee Heroes And Psychology (Room 265)
4:00 – 4:45pm Jason David Frank: Power Ranger Q&A (Room 272)
4:00 – 4:45pm From Concept To Page (Room 275)
4:00 – 5:45pm Silver Circle Screening And Q&A (Room 279)
5:00 – 5:45pm Creator Spotlight: Kevin Eastman (Room 272)
5:00 – 5:45pm Saving The Day: Ghostbusters Propping And Franchising (Room 275)
5:30 – 7:00pm Star Trek: The Next Generation 25th Anniversary Reunion – Paid Event (Room 265)
6:00 – 8:00pm Vice Screening W/Introduction By Michael Madsen (Room 272)
6:00 – 6:45pm Grimm Fairy Tales: What Your Mother Didn’t Tell You (Room 275)
6:00 – 6:45pm Artists Of The New 52 With Greg Capullo, Jesus Saiz & Ethan Van Sciver (Room 279)
7:00pm – 9:00pm Wizard World Adult Costume Contest (Room 265 / Cosplay Parade, Final Round & Winners Announced At The Metropolitan: 310 Andrew Higgins Dr.)
7:00 – 7:45pm The End Of The World Is Only The Beginning: Preparing For The Zombie Apocalypse (Room 279)
9:00pm – 2:00am Wizard World Masquerade Party (Metropolitan: 310 Andrew Higgins Dr.)

Sunday, December 2
11:00 – 11:45am John De Lancie Q&A (Room 265)
11:00 – 11:45am Storytelling With Michael Golden: Taking It To The Next Level (Room 279)
12:00 – 12:45pm Michael Madsen Q&A (Room 265)
12:00 – 12:45pm Breaking In Without Breaking Ties (Room 279)
1:00 – 1:45pm The Walking Dead Q&A W/Norman Reedus, Michael Rooker And Jon Bernthal (Room 265)
1:00 – 1:45pm Hound Kids Presents Border-Pups: Crashbat And Super Space Sheriffs Book Reading (Room 272)
1:00 – 1:45pm Creator Spotlight: Greg Capullo (Room 279)
2:00 – 2:45pm Levar Burton, Marina Sirtis And Brent Spiner Q&A (Room 265)
2:00 – 2:45pm Wizard World Kids Costume Contest (Room 272)
2:00 – 2:45pm Creator Spotlight: The Adams Family (Room 279)
3:00 – 3:45pm Batman And Psychology (Room 265)
3:00 – 3:45pm Meet The 501st Legion (Room 272)
3:00 – 3:45pm Creator Spotlight: Ethan Van Sciver (Room 279)
4:00 – 4:45pm Kenny Klein In Concert (Room 272)

*Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first served basis. each room will be cleared before panels.

Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will 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.  Admission is free for kids 10 and under, and Sunday, Dec. 2, is “Kids Day,” with an array of programming specially designed for children.

Event hours are Friday, Nov. 30, 4-8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-neworleans.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World 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.

***** SAVE THE 2012-13 DATES *****
November 30 – December 2, 2012 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
February 22-24, 2013 – Wizard World Portland Comic Con
May 30 – June 2, 2013 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con
August 8-11, 2013 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 20-22, 2013 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
November 22-24, 2013 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con

Wizard World Announces Programming for Austin Comic Con 2012

Press Release:

Programming At 2012 Wizard World Austin Comic Con To Include ‘Star Trek: TNG’ Reunion, Q&A’s With Patrick Stewart, Eliza Dushku, WWE® Superstar CM Punk®, Evening Parties 

Dean Cain, ‘The Walking Dead’ Cast, Other Celebrities, Artist Sessions, Comics, Movies, TV Panels At Austin Convention Center, October 26-28

NEW YORK and AUSTIN, Texas, October 19, 2012 – Wizard World today announced its most robust Austin Comic Con programming schedule ever, with a variety of sessions with top celebrities, superstar artists, industry insiders, evening parties, costume contests and dedicated kids activities, Oct. 26-28, 2012, at the Austin Convention Center.  A once-in-a-generation special reunion of the cast of “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” individual Q&A’s with Patrick Stewart, Eliza Dushku andWWE® Superstar CM Punk® are among the more than 15 celebrity panels among the nearly 50 scheduled during the three days.

The evening entertainment includes the popular “Wizard World Drink & Draw” on Friday, Oct. 26, and “Wizard World Masquerade Party” on Saturday night.

Some of the more interesting panels include:

· Interactive celebrity Q&A’s with Stewart, Dushku, Punk, Dean Cain and Lou Ferrigno.
· Eight cast members of “Star Trek: TNG,” on stage for the first time in the U.S., including Stewart (Captain Picard),Jonathan Frakes (Commander William T. Riker), LeVar Burton (Lt. Commander Geordi La Forge), Michael Dorn(Lieutenant Worf), Marina Sirtis (Counselor Deanna Troi), Brent Spiner (Lt. Commander Data) and Gates McFadden (Dr. Beverly Crusher).  This is an additional, paid event.
· “The Walking Dead” stars Norman Reedus, Michael Rooker and Jon Bernthal discuss the popular AMC show.
· “Star Trek: TNG” breakout sessions featuring the ladies (Sirtis, McFadden) and a selection of the men (Frakes, Burton, Spiner, Dorn) from the series.
· Creator spotlights with industry giants Neal Adams, Mike McKone, Bernie Wrightson, Humberto Ramos and more.
· Comprehensive discussions of a wide range of topics from vampires to series cancellations to webseries and more.
· Costume contests for adults (Saturday) and Kids (Sunday) for an early start to Halloween.
· Kids Day on Sunday, with a full slate of activities specially designed for the youngsters.

Unless noted, programming events take place in the designated General Programming Rooms (Ballroom FG, Ballroom E, Room 12AB) on the fourth floor of the Austin Convention Center.  Many are included as part of standard Wizard World Austin Comic Con admission; VIP tickets or additional costs may apply to ensure access to select activities.  Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels.  Programming subject to change; attendees should check the schedule board on site for updates.

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

Friday, Oct. 26
2:00 – 2:45pm Tanya Memme Q&A (Ballroom E)
3:00 – 3:45pm Creator Spotlight: Bernie Wrightson (Room 12AB)
3:00 – 3:45pm Craig Parker Q&A (Ballroom E)
3:00 – 3:45pm Star Trek: TNG Enterprise Bridge Restoration (Ballroom FG)
4:00 – 4:45pm Creator Spotlight: Mike McKone (Room AB)
4:00 – 4:45pm Paul McGillion Q&A (Ballroom E)
5:00 – 5:45pm Making Webcomics, With Scott Kurtz And Brad Guigar (Room AB)
5:00 – 5:45pm Sofia Milos Q&A (Ballroom E)
5:00 – 5:45pm DCU Online: Bringing The Comic Universe To Life (Ballroom FG)
6:00 – 6:45pm Cancelled! What Do You Mean, Cancelled? (Room AB)
6:00 – 6:45pm Voice Acting With Vic Mignogna (Ballroom E)
6:00 – 6:45pm The Women Of Star Trek: TNG W/ Marina Sirtis And Gates McFadden (Ballroom FG)
8:00 – 11:00pm Wizard World Drink & Draw (Hilton Austin/Salon J, 6th Floor)

Saturday, Oct. 27
11:00 – 11:45am Kosplay Kombat: DC Vs. Marvel (Room 12AB)
11:00 – 11:45am Dean Cain Q&A (Ballroom E)
11:00 – 11:45am First Comics: The Relaunch! (Ballroom FG)
12:00 – 12:45pm Creator Spotlight: Neal Adams (Room 12AB)
12:00 – 12:45pm Vampire Lore And Other Urban Myths And Legends w/Dr. Rebecca Housel (Ballroom E)
12:00 – 12:30pm Patrick Stewart Q&A (Ballroom FG)
1:00 – 1:45pm From Conception To Page (Room 12AB)
1:00 – 1:45pm Digital Painting (Ballroom E)
1:00 – 1:45pm The Boondock Saints Q&A (Ballroom FG)
2:00 – 2:45pm Creator Spotlight: Humberto Ramos (Room 12AB)
2:00 – 2:45pm Adult Star Wars Origami: Christopher Alexander (Ballroom E)
2:00 – 2:45pm Eliza Dushku Q&A (Ballroom FG)
3:00 – 3:45pm Storytelling With Michael Golden: Taking It To The Next Level (Room 12ab)
3:00 – 3:45pm Zenescope: Big Hitters And Bigger News (Ballroom E)
3:00 – 3:45pm Larry Nemecek’s Trekland: Between The Cracks…2012 Double-Whammy Edition! (Ballroom FG)
4:00 – 4:45pm Back To The Drawing Board Artist Q&A (Room 12AB)
4:00 – 4:45pm Webseries Creators Anonymous (Ballroom E)
5:00 – 5:45pm From Comics To Film (Room 12AB)
5:00 – 5:45pm Shadow Bringers: From Idea To Internet (Ballroom E)
5:30 – 7:00pm Star Trek: The Next Generation 25th Anniversary Reunion – Paid Event (Ballroom FG)
6:00 – 6:45pm Batman And Psychology (Room 12AB)
6:00 – 6:30pm WWE® Superstar CM Punk® Q&A (Ballroom E)
7:00pm – 9:00pm Wizard World Adult Costume Contest (Ballroom FG)
7:00pm – 9:00pm Wizard World Masquerade Party (Maggie Mae’s @ 323 East 6th St.)

Sunday, Oct. 28
11:00 – 11:45am Hound Kids Presents Border-Pups: Crashbat And Super Space Sheriffs Book Reading (Ballroom E)
11:00 – 11:30am My Life As The Hulk w/Lou Ferrigno (Ballroom FG)
12:00 – 12:45pm Drawing Cartoon Characters (Ballroom E)
12:00 – 12:45pm The Walking Dead Q&A w/Norman Reedus, Michael Rooker And Jon Bernthal (Ballroom FG)
1:00 – 1:45pm Hey, Kids Comics! Ape Entertainment Talks About Comics For Kids Of All Ages! (Ballroom E)
1:00 – 1:45pm How To Get Into The Game Industry (Ballroom FG)
2:00 – 2:45pm Wizard World Kids Costume Contest (Ballroom E)
2:00 – 2:45pm Jonathan Frakes, Levar Burton, Brent Spiner & Michael Dorn (Ballroom FG)
3:00 – 3:45pm Kids Star Wars Origami: Christopher Alexander (Ballroom E)
3:00 – 3:45pm Star Trek: State Of The Franchise (Ballroom FG)

*Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first served basis. each room will be cleared before panels.

Wizard World Austin Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will 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.  Admission is free for kids 10 and under, and Sunday, October 28, is “Kids Day,” with an array of programming specially designed for children.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World Austin Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-tx.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World 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.

***** SAVE THE 2012-13 DATES *****
October 26-28, 2012 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
November 30 – December 2, 2012 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
February 22-24, 2013 – Wizard World Portland Comic Con
May 30 – June 2, 2013 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con
August 8-11, 2013 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 20-22, 2013 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con

Wizard World’s Programming for the Ohio Comic Con 2012 Includes Patrick Stewart, Eliza Dushku, Val Kilmer, and CM Punk

Press Release: (Editor’s Note: This information has been updated and edited to reflect Stan Lee’s cancellation.)

Patrick Stewart, Eliza Dushku, Val Kilmer, WWE® Superstar CM Punk® Q&A’s, Costume Contests Top Wizard World Ohio Comic Con Programming Schedule

Interactive Celebrity Panels, Sessions Led By Superstar Artists, Kids and Adult Costume Contests, Kids Day Sunday Highlight Special Programming, Sept. 28-30

NEW YORK and COLUMBUS, Ohio, September 21, 2012 – Interactive Q&A discussions with all the event’s top celebrities, superstar artist sessions and costume contests for adults and children are among the highlights on the special programming schedule at Wizard World Ohio Comic Con, set for Sept. 28-30, 2012, at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Patrick Stewart, Eliza Dushku, Val Kilmer, WWE® Superstar CM Punk® and others will answer fans’ questions in panels that are often surprising and always entertaining.

Some of the most interesting scheduled sessions include:

• Celebrity Q&A’s featuring Stewart, Dushku, Lee, Val Kilmer, Punk, Dean Cain, and Boondock Saints actors Norman Reedus,Sean Patrick Flanery and David Della Rocco
• Artist sessions focusing on various facets of the industry: breaking into the industry by Neal Adams; pitching publishers by Tyler Kirkham; crafting stories by Michael Golden; reflecting on Spider-Man with Humberto Ramos and Paul Jenkins
• Kids Day on Sunday, with a full slate of activities specially designed for the youngsters
• “Drink and Draw” event featuring many of the top artists in a more casual setting
• Music, prizes and fun at the always unpredictable Wizard World Masquerade Party
• It wouldn’t be Wizard World Comic Con without cosplay and costume contests – adults on Saturday night, kids on Sunday

Unless noted, programming events take place in the designated Programming Room (Room E172) at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Many are included as part of standard Wizard World Ohio Comic Con admission; VIP tickets or additional costs may apply to ensure access to select activities. Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels. Programming subject to change; attendees should check the schedule board on site for updates.

Programming at Wizard World Ohio Comic Con is available in detail at http://www.wizardworld.com/programming-ohio.html, and scheduled as follows:

Friday, September 28

9-11:00 p.m., Wizard World Drink & Draw (Ballroom Foyer, 2^nd level)

 

Saturday, September 29

11 – 11:45 a.m., Storytelling With Michael Golden: Taking It To The Next Level (Room E172)

12 – 12:45 p.m., Eliza Dushku Q&A (Room E172) 

1:00 – 1:30 p.m., WWE® SUPERSTAR CM PUNK® Q&A (Room E172) 

2 – 2:45 p.m., Humberto Ramos & Paul Jenkins (Room E172)

3 – 3:45 p.m., Star Trek Panel W/ Patrick Stewart & John De Lancie (Room E172)

4 – 4:45 p.m., Alan Davis Q&A (Room E172)

5 – 5:45 p.m., Val Kilmer Q&A (Room E172) 

6 – 6:45 p.m., The Boondock Saints Q&A (Room E172)

7 – 9 p.m., Wizard World Adult Costume Contest (Room E172)

9 p.m. – 12 a.m. – Wizard World Masquerade Party (Tavern on Front)

 

Sunday, September 30

10 – 10:45 a.m., VAMPIRE LORE AND OTHER URBAN MYTHS AND LEGENDS W/DR. REBECCA HOUSEL (Room E172) 

12 – 12:45 p.m., Neal Adams Q&A (Room E172) 

1 – 1:45 p.m., Dean Cain Q&A (Room E172)

2 – 2:45 p.m., Wizard World Kids Costume Contest (Room E172)

3 – 3:45 p.m., Crazy Coasters with COSI (Room E172)

 

Stewart, Punk®, Dushku and Cain headline the Wizard World Ohio Comic Con celebrity roster. They will be joined by many of the world’s greatest comics creators, exhibitors and thousands of fans in a celebration of all things pop culture in an expanded format, which now includes a preview on Friday evening and two full weekend days.

Top creators include Eisner Award Hall of Famer Adams (“Batman,” “Green Lantern”), Alan Davis (“Captain America,” “Thor”), Eisner Award nominee Ramos (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Impulse”), Eisner Award winner Jenkins (“Spider-Man,” “Hulk”) and many others.

Wizard World Ohio Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will 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. Show hours are Friday, Sept. 28, 5-9 p.m.; Saturday, Sept. 29, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Sept. 30, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World Ohio Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-ohio.html.

About Wizard World:

Wizard World 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.

***** SAVE THE 2012-13 DATES *****

September 28-30, 2012 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con

October 26-28, 2012 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con

November 30 – December 2, 2012 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con

February 22-24, 2013 – Wizard World Portland Comic Con

May 30 – June 2, 2013 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con

August 8-11, 2013 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Patrick Stewart, Stan Lee, Eliza Dushku, Michael Madsen, and CM Punk Lead Guest List for Wizard World New Orleans 2012

Press Release:

Patrick Stewart, Stan Lee, Eliza Dushku, Michael Madsen, WWE® Superstar CM Punk® Lead Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con Celebrity Roster, Nov. 30 – Dec. 2

Also To Feature Dean Cain, Michael Rooker, Jon Bernthal, Superstar Artists Greg Capullo, Neal Adams, Many Others At New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

NEW YORK and NEW ORLEANS, September 18, 2012 – “Star Trek: The Next Generation” actor Sir Patrick Stewart, comics legend Stan Lee, “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” star Eliza Dushku, Reservoir Dogs headliner Michael Madsen and WWE® Superstar CM Punk® top the standout lineup of celebrities scheduled to attend Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, Nov. 30 – Dec. 2, 2012, at New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.  They will be joined by an All-Star collection of well-known artists and a variety of activities, exhibitors and special attractions in the final event on Wizard World’s 2012 calendar.

Stewart and Lee will appear on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 1-2, while Dushku and Punk are scheduled to attend on Saturday and Madsen all three days.

Other headliners on the Wizard World New Orleans roster include Dean Cain (“Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman,” “90210”), Michael Rooker (“The Walking Dead,” Henry), Jon Bernthal (“The Walking Dead,” Night at the Museum), Kevin Sorbo (“Hercules, The Legendary Journeys,” “Andromeda”) and the Boondock Saints trio of Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flanery and David Della Rocco.

The lineup of superstar comic creators in New Orleans is also impressive, with Eisner Award Hall of Famer Neal Adams (“Batman,” “Green Lantern”), Eisner nominees J.G. Jones (“Final Crisis,” “Wanted”), Ethan Van Sciver (“Firestorm,” “Green Lantern”) and Ron Garney (“Captain America,” “Wolverine”), Phil Jimenez (“Spider-Man,” “X-Men”) and Michael Golden (“Hulk,” “Daredevil”) leading the way.

Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will 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.  Admission is free for kids 10 and under, and Sunday, December 2, is “Kids Day,” an array of programming specially designed for children.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-neworleans.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World 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.

***** SAVE THE 2012-13 DATES *****
September 28-30, 2012 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28, 2012 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
November 30 – December 2, 2012 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
February 22-24, 2013 – Wizard World Portland Comic Con
May 30 – June 2, 2013 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con
August 8-11, 2013 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Wizard World Austin Comic Con 2012 to Feature Star Trek: TNG Reunion, Eliza Dushku, and WWE Star CM Punk

Press Release:

First U.S. ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ 25-Year Reunion, Eliza Dushku, WWE® Superstar CM Punk® Featured At 2012 Wizard World Austin Comic Con

Patrick Stewart Leads Seven ‘TNG’ Stars, Plus Dean Cain, Anthony Michael Hall, James Marsters, Boondock Saints Trio, Dozens of Top Creators At Austin Convention Center, October 26-28

NEW YORK and AUSTIN, August 15, 2012 – Seven stars of the popular series “Star Trek: The Next Generation” will gather for their first 25-year U.S. reunion at Wizard World Austin Comic Con, Oct. 26-28, 2012, at the Austin Convention Center.  All seven of the main stars are scheduled to attend, including the legendary Patrick Stewart, who portrayed the stern, determined Captain Jean-Luc Picard, commander of the USS Enterprise.

The “TNG” stars will be joined in Austin by Eliza Dushku (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer,”True Lies), WWE® Superstar CM Punk®, Dean Cain (“Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman,” “90210”), Anthony Michael Hall (Sixteen Candles, Weird Science), James Marsters (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” “Torchwood”) and the Boondock Saints trio of Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flanery and David Della Rocco, among others.

The other “TNG” actors on board include Jonathan Frakes (Commander William T. Riker), LeVar Burton (Lt. Commander Geordi La Forge), Michael Dorn (Lieutenant Worf), Marina Sirtis (Counselor Deanna Troi), Brent Spiner (Lt. Commander Data) and Gates McFadden (Dr. Beverly Crusher).  The series, which ran for seven seasons from 1987 through 1994, garnered 18 daytime Emmys and was a hugely successful follow-up to the original “Star Trek” series from two decades earlier.

The lineup of superstar comic creators in Austin is also impressive, with Eisner Award Hall of Famer Neal Adams (“Batman,” “Green Lantern”), Eisner winners Paul Jenkins (“Spider-Man,” “Hulk”) and Bernie Wrightson (“Swamp Thing,” “House of Mystery”), Kaare Andrews (“Astonishing X-Men,” “Iron Man”), Humberto Ramos (“The Spectacular Spider-Man,” “Impulse”) and Mike McKone (“Avengers,” “Green Lantern”) at the top of the deep list.

Other celebrities of note scheduled to attend include Sofia Milos (“CSI: Miami,” “The Order”), Vic Mignogna(Reservoir Chronicle: Tsubasa, “Fullmetal Alchemist and the Broken Angel”), Craig Parker (“Spartacus,” Lord of the Rings), Eve Myles (“Doctor Who,” “Torchwood”), Paul McGillion (“Stargate: Atlantis,” “Star Trek”) and Lou Ferrigno (“The Incredible Hulk,” “The King of Queens”).

Wizard World Austin Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will 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.  Admission is free for kids 10 and under, and Sunday, October 28 is “Kids Day,” with an array of programming specially designed for children.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World Austin Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-tx.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World 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.

***** SAVE THE 2012-13 DATES *****
September 28-30, 2012 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28, 2012 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
November 30 – December 2, 2012 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
May 30 – June 2, 2013 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con
August 8-11, 2013 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Stan Lee, William Shatner, CM Punk, and Eliza Dushku Among Stars to Appear at Wizard World Ohio Comic Con 2012

Press Release:

Stan Lee, William Shatner, WWE® Superstar CM Punk®, Eliza Dushku Among Stars At Wizard World Ohio Comic Con, Sept. 28-30

Cain, Ferrigno, ‘Boondock Saints’ Della Rocco, Flanery, Reedus Also Join Neal Adams, Alan Davis, Other Superstar Artists In Wizard World’s Expanded Return To Greater Columbus Convention Center

NEW YORK and COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 18, 2012 – Comics legend Stan Lee, pop culture icon William Shatner, WWE® Superstar CM Punk® and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” star Eliza Dushku headline the celebrity roster as Wizard World Ohio Comic Con returns to the Greater Columbus Convention Center, September 28-30.  They will be joined by many of the world’s greatest comics creators, exhibitors and thousands of fans in a celebration of all things pop culture in an expanded format, which now includes a preview on Friday evening and two full weekend days.

Lee, creator of “Spider-Man,” “X-Men” and dozens of the world’s most popular characters and titles, will appear on both Saturday and Sunday, while Shatner (“Star Trek,” “T.J. Hooker”) and WWE® Superstar CM Punk™ will all attend on Saturday.

Fans will also be excited to meet popular actors like Dean Cain (“Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman,” “90210”), Lou Ferrigno (“The Incredible Hulk”) and The Boondock Saints trio of David Della Rocco, Sean Patrick Flanery and Norman Reedus.

Wizard World Ohio Comic Con Artist Alley will burst with internationally-acclaimed and top local talent, including Eisner Award Hall of Famer Neal Adams (“Batman,” “Green Lantern”), Alan Davis (“Captain America,” “Thor”), Eisner Award nominee Humberto Ramos (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Impulse”), Eisner Award winner Paul Jenkins (“Spider-Man,” “Hulk”) and many others.

Wizard World Ohio Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will 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.  Show hours are Friday, Sept. 28, 5-9 p.m.; Saturday, Sept. 29, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Sept. 30, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World Ohio Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-ohio.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World 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.

***** SAVE THE 2012-13 DATES *****
August 9-12, 2012 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 28-30, 2012 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28, 2012 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
November 30 – December 2, 2012 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
TBD, 2013 – Wizard World Toronto Comic Con
May 30 – June 2, 2013 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con

Sienkiewicz and Wrightson Join Some of Sci-Fi’s Hottest at the February 2012 DFW Sci-Fi Expo

Press Release:

Bill Sienkiewicz and Bernie Wrightson join some of Sci-Fi’s hottest at the DFW SCI-FI EXPO, Feb 11-12

Two comic book legends, Bill Sienkiewicz (ELEKTRA ASSASSIN) and Bernie Wrightson (SWAMP THING), headline the impressive artist lineup at the February 11-12 Sci-Fi Expo.  Produced by the men behind the Dallas Comic Con, this year’s Sci-Fi Expo brings in a wide variety of television and movie actors, along with several comic book luminaries including Joe Jusko and Marvel artist Mark Brooks.  This is Sienkiewicz’s first trip back to the Big D area after previously appearing at the 2009 Dallas Comic Con – his art recently graced the packaging of the new GODZILLA Blu-ray.  Bernie Wrightson has become a favorite guest of the Dallas-based shows, and will be making one of his first major 2012 convention appearances there.  Mark Brooks is making time from his busy Marvel schedule to return to Dallas for the first time in many years as well, and Joe Jusko is coming straight to the show from a big trip to Paris!  Other comic book personalities attending include James O’Barr (creator of THE CROW), Joe Eisma (artist of MORNING GLORIES), Kerry Gammill (former SUPERMAN artist) and Ben Dunn (creator and artist of NINJA HIGH SCHOOL).

Sci-Fi fans will be thrilled to meet the sexy star of BUFFY and DOLLHOUSE, Eliza Dushku, who is attending the show on Saturday only.  FIREFLY and SERENITY fans will be treated to appearances by cast members Adam Baldwin (also Saturday only), Jewel Staite, Sean Maher and Ron Glass. Other media personalities include Alexis Cruz (STARGATE), Noah Hathaway (THE NEVERENDING STORY), Angie Bolling (all three ROBOCOP movies) and James Hampton (TEEN WOLF).  Event Manager Mark Walters notes, “We pride ourselves in putting together conventions that feature something for everyone, and all with a family-friendly atmosphere.  This particular Sci-Fi Expo is our most-ambitious yet, with an incredible mix of talent… we expect the fans will be thrilled.”

General Admission is $15 (discounted tickets for children), with Priority and VIP passes available.  You can find more information on the show, which runs Saturday (11am to 6pm) and Sunday (11am to 4pm) at http://scifiexpo.com

Fan Expo Canada 2011 Adds Hayden Panettiere and William Shatner

Press Release:

TOP 10 MUST SEES AT FAN EXPO CANADA™

The ultimate four-day fan experience adds Heroes star HAYDEN PANETTIERE and the one and only WILLIAM SHATNER to line-up!

TORONTO, ON (August 17, 2011) – Only eight more days until FAN EXPO CANADA™ arrives in Toronto!   Canada’s premier combined gaming, horror, comic, science fiction and anime event – the third largest in the world – is celebrating 17 years of Comic-Con North!  This year’s expanded four-day festival takes place August 25-28, 2011 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre showcasing more than 600 exhibitors and retailers covering over 250,000 square feet.

Tickets to FAN EXPO CANADA™ are on sale in advance until August 21^st and available at the door.  Prices range from $79 (DELUXE Fan Expo Pass); and SINGLE Fan Expo Passes from $40, $30 and $25.  All prices include HST and are available through the FAN EXPO CANADA™ website, www.fanexpocanada.com.

In addition to NEW features and events including Nerd Speed Dating, fans can also expect returning popular favourites such as Canada’s largest costume Masquerade, Artist Alley, Sketching Duels, National Gaming Tournaments and, of course, celebrity autograph and Q&A panels.  For the complete programming schedule, visit www.fanexpocanada.com.

TOP 10 MUST SEES AT FAN EXPO CANADA

CANADA’S LARGEST COSTUME MASQUERADE - SATURDAY NIGHT ONLY! 8PM (All genres) If you’ve never been to a masquerade or costume play, THIS is the one to attend!  This annual event features creative fans showcasing their original costumes derived from the comic, sci-fi, horror, anime and fantasy worlds – all on stage for a chance to win bragging rights.  Master of Ceremonies, Gordon Rose, brings you the most popular event of the weekend and the largest show of its kind in Canada!
(Saturday, Aug. 27, 8 pm, Hall G)

NERD SPEED DATING (All genres)
For the first time ever, speed dating is coming to FAN EXPO CANADA™!  Come and enjoy good music, great company, and the thrilling potential to meet your soul mate!  Each genre will have its own session and is free for all attendees!  This is the perfect opportunity to seek out like-hearted individuals at the biggest fan party of the year!  This event is for adults 18 years of age or older.
(Thursday-Saturday, various times, Room 803)

TELETOON CANADA PRESENTS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF “STAR WARS: CLONE WARS”
Season Four, Episode One (Sci-Fi)
The season will be an exciting one where viewers will see the heroic Jedi Knights and their clone army fight to preserve order.  Season four will show efforts met with strong resistance from the massive Separatist droid army.  Escalating and expanding into uncharted corners of the galaxy, Star Wars: The Clone Wars grows with exotic adventures and enhanced animation.  Within the galactic battle, fearsome foes from the past return to settle the score, including lethal adversaries such as bounty hunter Cad Bane and the monstrous Savage Opress.  Hosted by TELETOON at Night’s Fred Kennedy, fans in attendance will get the chance to win one of three mystery prize packs to be revealed onsite.
(Saturday, Aug. 27, 5 pm, Room 718)

SKETCHING DUELS (Comic)
Check out your favourite comic artists as they go pen to pen!  The original art they produce goes up for grabs once they’re done!  An amazing experience to witness, these friendly competitions show who’s got the edge in comic book illustration!
(Thursday-Sunday, various times, Room 716)

STAR WARS – JEDI SCHOOL (Sci-Fi/Fantasy)
Lightsaber Dueling Demo & Workshop.  How do Jedis do it?  It looks so cool!  Find out here.
(Saturday, Aug. 27, 4 pm, Room 715B)

501ST GRAND MARCH
Have your cameras ready as the 501st Legion of Stormtroopers march the floor en masse as they travel to the location of their much looked forward to Grand Assembly photo opportunity.  When they get rolling they can’t stop, so get your shot and then get yourself to the Gallery on 800 for the Assembly.
(Saturday, Aug. 27, 5 p.m., 800 Level)

REMEMBERING FRIGHTENSTEIN
Join VICTORIA PRICE and producer/co-star MITCH MARKOWITZ as we take a walk down memory lane of The Hilarious House of Frightenstein, Canada’s legendary monster kid’s show starring Vincent Price and Billy Van.  Moderated by Rue Morgue’s Paul Corupe!
(Friday, Aug. 26, 5 pm, Room 715B)

ANIMOTION J POP DANCE (Anime)
Coming to you from the heart of downtown Toronto, Fan Expo is proud to present our annual J-Pop dance. Featuring a mix of the hottest hits from the hottest shows, to classics everyone remembers and loves, ANIMOTION promises to give you the beats to unleash your inner dance machine!

LOLITA FASHION 101 (Anime)
Lolita,a Japanese street fashion know for its intricate and delicate doll-like look, has become one of the most recognized street stylesin Japan, and is now a popular movement in North America.  Members of ‘The Southern Ontario Lolita Community’ will give you an opportunity to find out all about this growing fashion style and how to get involved in it!  Check out the fashion show too!
(Sunday, Aug. 28, 1 pm, Room 707; Fashion Show, Sunday, Aug. 28, 1:30 pm, Room 718)

VIDEO GAME TOURNAMENTS and CARD TOURNAMENTS (Gaming)
GX offers the largest destination for live competitive console and PC gaming tournaments featuring all the latest and hot titles.  GX has been the site of the Canadian National Championships for Magic: the Gathering, Pokemon, and UFS Universal Fighting System, and is hosting the national championship for the Great Canadian Board Game Blitz.  FAN EXPO CANADA™ is home to the largest gathering of gamers in the country!
(Daily, various times and locations)

FAN EXPO CANADA™ recently announced its stellar line up of celebrity guests comprising of the world’s most legendary names in pop culture, many of today’s hottest film and television stars, as well as industry luminaries including:

Sci-Fi / Fantasy:

• ANTHONY DANIELS (Star Wars)
• ELIZA DUSHKU (Dollhouse)
• TOM FELTON (Harry Potter)
• LARRY HAGMAN and BARBARA EDEN (I Dream of Jeannie)
• LEE MAJORS (The Six Million Dollar Man)
• HAYDEN PANETTIERE (Heroes) - NEW
• KATEE SACKHOFF (Battlestar Galactica)
• ROBERT J. SAWYER (Bestselling author of Flashforward)
• WILLIAM SHATNER (Star Trek) - NEW
• KEVIN SORBO (Hercules)
• SAM TRAMMELL (True Blood)

 

Horror:

• ROBERT ENGLUND (A Nightmare On Elm Street)
• JOHN WATERS (Legendary director of Pink Flamingos, Multiple Maniacs, Serial Mom)
• MARTIN LANDAU (Ed Wood) - NEW
• JOHN ASTIN (The Addams Family)
• DOUG BRADLEY (Hellraiser)
• HEATHER BREWER (NY Times bestselling author of The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod)
• LANCE HENRIKSEN (Aliens)
• VICTORIA PRICE (Daughter of Vincent Price and author of A Daughter’s Biography)
• STEVEN SEVERIN (London Punk pioneer and founder of Siouxsie And the Banshees)

 

Comic:

• CHRIS CLAREMONT (Legendary Comic Writer) – NEW
• DAVID FINCH (Batman:The Dark Knight Artist) – NEW
• JOE KUBERT (Legendary Comic Book Artist)
• ADAM KUBERT (Artist of ASTONISHING SPIDER-MAN & WOLVERINE)
• ANDY KUBERT (Artist of BATMAN & FLASHPOINT)
• JEFF SMITH (Cartoonist Guest of Honour – Creator of BONE)
• DOUG SNEYD (Legendary Playboy cartoonist)
• CLAY MANN (Artist — X-Men: Legacy) - NEW

 

Anime:

• JASON DELINE, SHAWN MEUNIER (Stars of Bakugan)
• MIKE MCFARLAND, CHRIS SABAT (Stars of Dragonball Z)
• JUNKO MIZUNO (Acclaimed manga artist)
• VIC MIGNOGNA (Star of Fullmetal Alchemist:Brotherhood)
• VERONICA TAYLOR (Star of Pokemon)

 

Gaming:

• JARETT CALE, GEOFF LAPAIRE (Pure Pwnage)
• ROBIN D. LAWS (Author – Dungeons & Dragons, Heroquest)
• ED GREENWOOD (Author of Forgotten Realms)
• VICTOR LUCAS, SHAUN HATTON (The Electric Playground)

 

For the complete list of celebrity guests, go to www.fanexpocanada.com.

TICKET DETAILS: All advance ticket sales are available August 21^st through the Fan Expo Canada
website: www.fanexpocanada.com.  (All prices include HST)

DELUXE Fan Expo Pass: $79 — BEST VALUE, LIMITED QUANTITIES
·        Includes unlimited access to Fan Expo Canada for up to 4 days
·        Access to Special Expo Preview on Thursday, August 25 at 2:00 pm
·        (Excludes special ticketed events and anything otherwise noted)

SINGLE Fan Expo Pass:
·        Includes unlimited access Fan Expo Canada on specified date
·        (Excludes special ticketed events and anything otherwise noted)

 

Thursday, August 25, 2011 (starting at 4pm) Friday, August, 26, 2011 Saturday, August 27, 2011 Sunday, August 28, 2011

$25$30 $40 $30

 

SHOW DETAILS:

WHEN: AUGUST 25- 28, 2011

Thursday, August 25Friday, August 26 Saturday, August 27 Sunday, August 28 WHERE:

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm (Special Preview for Deluxe Pass holders) 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm 10:00 am – 8:00 pm 10:00 am – 8:00 pm 10:00 am – 6:00 pmMetro Toronto Convention Centre South Building 222 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

For more information visit, www.fanexpocanada.com

Fan Expo Canada 2011 Adds Sci-Fi and Fantasy Icons

Press Release:

Pop Culture’s Sci-Fi & Fantasy Icons Added to Powerhouse Lineup at 2011 Fan Expo Canada™

 

Stars of True Blood and Harry Potter join C-P3O, The Six Million Dollar Man and Hercules on SFX Science Fiction Expo Stage

Toronto, ON (May 11, 2011) – Fan Expo Canada™, Canada’s largest gaming, horror, comic, science fiction and anime event, today announced a star-studded lineup of science fiction celebrities that is sure to thrill fans of all ages. The Science Fiction Expo spotlights a plethora of television and film idols spanning generations including

Lee Majors (The Six Million Dollar Man), Larry Hagman and Barbara Eden (I Dream of Jeannie), Kevin Sorbo (Hercules) as well as today’s hottest fantasy stars such as True Blood’s Sam Trammell, Harry Potter’s Tom Felton and Sci-Fi “it” girls Eliza Dushku and Katee Sackhoff.

Original Star Wars actor, Anthony Daniels, who played CP3O, joins the weekend-long “Celebrating Star Wars” programming featuring 501st Legion, The Droid Hunt, Masquerade, Lightsaber Duel demonstrations, video presentations, costume and prop making workshops, photo sessions and more!

Also announced, returning by popular demand is Fan Expo Canada’s Steampunk programming – a growing sub-genre of Sci-Fi, inspired by the industrial Victorian era. The introduction of STEAMPUNK to last year’s event drew massive crowds of enthusiasts from all corners of the world.

The SFX Science Fiction Expo Celebrity Guests Include:

· ANTHONY DANIELS (C-3PO in Star Wars feature films)

· ELIZA DUSHKU (Echo in Dollhouse)

· BARBARA EDEN (Jeannie in I Dream of Jeannie)

· TOM FELTON (Draco in Harry Potter feature films)

· LARRY HAGMAN (Major Anthony Nelson in I Dream of Jeannie)

· LANCE HENRIKSEN (Bishop in the Aliens feature films)

· LEE MAJORS (Steve Austin in The Six Million Dollar Man)

· NICHELLE NICHOLS (Uhura in the original Star Trek)

· KATEE SACKHOFF (Captain Kara of Battlestar Galactica)

· MICHAEL SHANKS (Dr. Daniel Jackson in Stargate SG-1)

· MARINA SIRTIS (Deanna Troi in Star Trek: The Next Generation)

· KEVIN SORBO (Captain Dylan Hunt in Andromeda and star of Hercules)

· SAM TRAMMELL (Sam Merlotte in True Blood)

Key Features and Highlights of the SFX Science Fiction Expo:

· “Celebrating Star Wars” with an entire weekend-long programming including 501st Legion Conference, The Droid Hunt, Masquerade, Light saber Duel demonstrations, Video presentations, Costume & Prop making workshops, Photo Sessions and more!

· Intimate and Interactive – celebrity presentations allow fans the opportunity to meet their favourite celebrities and learn some of Sci-Fi’s best kept secrets in an open Q & A forum

· Autograph Sessions with Science Fiction celebrities – always a crowd pleaser

· Canada’s largest Masquerade on Saturday, Aug. 27 – dress up as a popular Science Fiction character

· 600 commercial exhibitors supporting a full complement of science fiction and entertainment themes including collectibles, videos and more

· Science Fiction industry professional workshops for the public

· Industry Preview Area – see the latest products and services and get a sneak peek at upcoming projects

For the 17th consecutive year, visitors from across Ontario and around the world will have the opportunity to experience the very best in pop culture first-hand at the upcoming 2011 Fan Expo Canada™. In addition to the Science Fiction Expo, the country’s largest combined event will include Anime, Comic Books, Festival of Fear Horror Expo and GX – Gaming Expo. Stay tuned for more announcements in the upcoming weeks.

SHOW DETAILS:

WHEN: AUGUST 25- 28, 2011

Thursday, August 25 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm (Special Preview)

4:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Friday, August 26 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Saturday, August 27 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Sunday, August 28 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

WHERE: Metro Toronto Convention Centre South Building

222 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

For more information visit, www.fanexpocanada.com

C2E2 2011 Adds Eliza Dushku and True Blood Cast Members

Press Release:

MORE ENTERTAINMENT CELEBRITY APPEARANCES ARE ANNOUNCED FOR THE CHICAGO COMIC AND ENTERTAINMENT EXPO (C2E2)

Eliza Dushku and Rick Bayless to Participate in Panels; Cast of True Blood in Spotlight Panel on Saturday, March 19

Norwalk, CT, February 16, 2011: Officials at the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo (C2E2) have announced more notable guests from the world of entertainment who will participate in the show and take part in panels. Eliza Dushku, the star of Joss Whedon’s Dollhouse will be at C2E2 on both Saturday, March 19 and Sunday, March 20 where she’ll be signing both days and speaking with Dollhouse co-star and previously announced guest of C2E2, Tahmoh Penikett, in a Q & A session on Saturday afternoon. In addition, famed Chef, award-winning author, and popular television personality Rick Bayless will participate in a panel with C.B. Cebulski, writer and talent scout for Marvel, and moderated by Ron Richards of iFanboy and A Taste of Comics. The unique panel, which itself illustrates the broad reach and expansive role of pop culture in the world today, will center on the connections between food and comics on a creative level. Cooking is creativity. Food is art. And that’s the connection to comics. A chef’s knife is the equivalent of an artist’s pencil or brush!

Other guests who have recently been confirmed to appear at C2E2 include Sam Trammell, Kristin Bauer, and Brit Morgan from the cast of the popular HBO series True Blood. Sam, Kristin and Brit will be signing as well as participating in a Q & A spotlight panel on Saturday, March 19. As noted, Tahmoh Penikett was recently announced as a guest at C2E2, along with Jonathan Bernthal, Laurie Holden and Mark Sheppard, who will all be appearing on panels at the show. Other writers, artists, and creators appearing at C2E2 include Brian Michael Bendis, China Miéville, Garth Ennis, and Joe Quesada, among many others. Over 250 artists will be on hand participating in C2E2’s Artist Alley.

C2E2 will take place March 18 – 20 in the South Hall of the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago. Autograph tickets are now available at www.c2e2.com.

“Our guests are incredibly talented and they are outstanding in their own fields of endeavor,” notes Lance Fensterman, Group Vice President for ReedPOP and Show Manager for C2E2. “This is what makes the pop culture world so unique. Eliza Dushku and Rick Bayless can both successfully appear at C2E2 because we can provide them with legions of fans. Our strength is in our diversity and we are grateful to our guests as well as our fans for supporting C2E2 and making it as rich and varied as it is!”

Kristin Bauer: Kristin Bauer is best known for her role as Pam on the HBO show True Blood, you might also know her as the voice of Mera in the Justice League TV series, Lt. Laneth on Star Trek Enterprise, Lydia Meyerson on Dark Angel and as Gillian in the Bizarro Jerry Episode of Seinfeld.

Kristin grew up in Wisconsin playing sports, riding horses, and shooting guns. Her father was an avid horseman and gun collector and her mother a housewife involved in charities. Kristin moved to LA and began acting in 1994 after studying fine arts in St. Louis, Boston and New York. She still studies drawing and painting to this day and does commissioned portraits in between shooting and working to better the treatment of animals and God’s greatest artistic creation – “this spaceship we live on called Earth.” She lives in LA with her many rescued animals and her South African husband, Abri van Straten, a singer, song writer, classical guitar player of the band The Lemmings, who is also releasing a solo record in 2009.

Rick Bayless: Most people know him from winning the title of Bravo’s Top Chef Master beating out the French and Italian with his authentic Mexican cuisine. His highly rated on-going Public Television Series, Mexico—One Plate at a Time can be found on television sets coast to coast, and his award-winning, six cookbooks. Rick’s second book, Mexican Kitchen, won the Julia Childs IACP cookbook of the year award in 1996, and his fourth book, Mexico—One Plate at a Time won James Beard Best International Cookbook of the Year award in 2001.

Bayless’s side by side award-winning restaurants in Chicago were founded in 1987. The casual Frontera Grill and the 4-star Topolobampo. In 2007, Frontera Grill won for Outstanding Restaurant by the James Beard Organization. His award-winning Frontera line of salsas, grilling sauces and organic chips can be found coast to coast. On the local front, Rick and his staff began the Frontera Farmer Foundation in 2003 to attract support for small Midwestern farms. Each year, grants are given to our local farmers for capital improvements to their family farms. In 2007 he was awarded the Humanitarian of the Year by the International Association of Culinary Professionals for his work with our local farmers. In 2007, Bayless and his team launched the Frontera Scholarship: a full tuition scholarship that will send a Mexican-American student to Kendall Culinary College to study the culinary arts.

Rick Bayless has won James Beard awards for: Midwest Chef of the Year, National Chef of the Year and Humanitarian of the Year. His cookbook with his now 19 year old daughter, Lanie, titled Rick and Lanie’s Excellent Kitchen Adventures was nominated for a James Beard Award as well as Rick’s latest book Mexican Everyday. Mexico One Plate at a Time is currently in its seventh season on PBS. Bayless recently opened his third restaurant: XOCO—a quick serve LEED certified restaurant featuring house-ground chocolate and wood grilled tortas.

Rick’s latest book, Fiesta at Rick’s (WW. Norton) is currently on the New York Times Best seller list.

Eliza Dushku: Eliza Dushku continues to maintain her leading lady status in Hollywood with roles in a number of prominent film and television projects. She recently was seen starring in Fox’s “Dollhouse,” a series created by Joss Whedon on which Dushku also served as a Producer. Dushku also wrapped production on the psychological thriller Locked In opposite Ben Barnes, Sarah Roemer and Brenda Fricker, in which she plays a former co-worker of Barnes’ character with whom she has an affair.

Dushku’s talents extend far beyond acting. She is currently producing a biopic through her production company Boston Diva Productions. The film titled The Perfect Moment, is based on the life of photographer Robert Mapplethorpe and his rise to fame in the 1970s to his untimely death in 1989. She has brought on two-time Sundance Grand Jury Prize winner, Ondi Timoner to direct and produce alongside her.

Dushku also co-starred with Alan Rickman and Bill Pullman in Bottle Shock, a drama about the birth of the Napa Valley wine country. Additional past film credits include The Alphabet Killer, in which she also served as an Associate Producer, Nobel Son, Wrong Turn, City by the Sea opposite Robert De Niro and Frances McDormand, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back and the hit cheerleading film Bring it On opposite Kirsten Dunst, among others.

Dushku has also had a very successful television career, starring in a number of hit series with cult-like followings. She first starred as Faith Lehane on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, a slayer much more troubled than the main character Buffy. Though initially planned as a five-episode role, the character became so popular that Dushku stayed on for the entire third season and returned for a two-part appearance the following season. The remainder of her original story arc was played out in the first season of the spin-off Angel. Repentant and rededicated, Faith returned in a number of later episodes of Angel and Buffy. Following these roles Dushku starred in the series, Tru Calling in which she played Tru Davies in yet another powerful female role. Additional television credits include guest starring roles on That 70’s Show and Ugly Betty.

The daughter of an Albanian-American administrator father and Danish-American professor mother, Dushku was raised with ambition in her blood. At the early age of 10, Dushku was discovered by casting agents for the lead role of Alice in the film That Night. In 1993, Dushku landed the role of Pearl alongside Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio in This Boy’s Life, a role that caught the attention of many in the industry. The following year, she starred with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jamie Lee Curtis in True Lies, opposite Paul Reiser in Bye Bye, Love and alongside Halle Berry in Race the Sun.

In addition to acting and producing, Dushku is involved with a number of charities, including Camp Hale in Boston and 10,000 Girls School in Kaolack, Senegal. Earlier this year, she traveled to Uganda helping bring awareness to the country. Dushku lives a very active lifestyle and recently completed her first triathlon finishing with a Bronze medal.

Brit Morgan: Brit Morgan stars as Debbie Pelt in season 3 and 4 of the hit HBO show True Blood. Brit got her big break as Lacey Thornfield on the TV show The Middleman.

She is an upcoming young actress. Her acting career began when she left her hometown of New Jersey and drove to Hollywood in her pick up truck after turning 18. She then landed guest spots on CSI:NY and Greek before landing a role on The Middleman. She is also set to star in Beer for My Horses.

Sam Trammell: Sam Trammell is best known for his role as Sam Merlotte on the HBO Show True Blood, Matt Chambers in the 2nd episode of Dexter and as Tim in the movie AVPR: Aliens vs Predator – Requiem.

An intelligent, highly-capable actor, Sam Trammell made inroads on the New York stage while building an intriguing career in mostly independent features. The West Virginia native attended Brown University where he gravitated to acting in his senior year. Trammell made his film debut as an intern at a tabloid TV talk show in the little-seen The Hotel Manor (1994) and kept busy with auditioned and day-player roles on daytime serials. He made his primetime debut with a featured role in the 1996 CBS/Hallmark Hall of Fame presentation Harvest of Fire and won some attention as a man who has an affair with the mother of a friend in Childhood’s End (1996). Returning to NYC, Trammell garnered attention and good reviews for a trio of stage performances. He was compulsive gambler in his Off-Broadway debut Dealer’s Choice, a gay man in My Night With Reg and earned a Tony nomination as the authorial stand-in in the Broadway revival of Eugene O’Neill’s comedy Ah, Wilderness! in 1998. Within months of capturing NYC audiences, the actor reached a wider constituency as the fast-talking ex-con Sonny Dupree in the quirky ABC comedy-drama Maximum Bob. Later that year, Trammell was briefly seen as the youngest son in a large Irish Catholic family in Trinity (NBC). Trammell returned to the stage in 1999, playing the troubled offspring of an award-winning TV actress (essayed by Elizabeth Ashley) in the unsuccessful drama If Memory Serves. 2000, though, proved a better year as the actor had a supporting role as a male hustler in the Sundance-screened Beat, saw the release of Followers, an affecting drama in which he played a would-be pledge to a fraternity who makes several decisions with tragic repercussions, and portrayed twins in the dramatic road movie Fear of Fiction. Trammell rounded out the year garnering rave reviews for his turn as the title character’s male lover in the Off-Broadway play Kit Marlowe, about the Elizabethan playwright.

Tickets for the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo may be purchased at www.c2e2.com. Other information about the show, as well as news about ReedPOP, which also organizes New York Comic Con (NYCC) is available at Lance Fensterman’s blog, www.mediumatlarge.net.

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 and Entertainment Expo (C2E2), Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) East & West, Star Wars Celebration V, New York Anime Festival (NYAF), and UFC Fan Expo. 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, Asia and Europe.

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