Awesome Con DC Launches in April 2013 with Nicholas Brendon, Justin Jordan, Etc.

Press Release:

Awesome Con DC Is Almost Here

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 9, 2013 – Bringing together comics and pop culture with a fun atmosphere, Awesome Con DC will be the first comic-con in the District of Columbia on Saturday, April 20^th, and Sunday, April 21^st. Says event coordinator Ben Penrod, “This show has something for everyone; dozens of vendors, artists, and special guests, plus lots of exciting events and activities. As a fan, this is heaven.”

Celebrity guests at Awesome Con DC include Buffy The Vampire Slayer’s Nicholas Brendon, Futurama’s Billy West and Phil LaMarr, Ghostbusters’ Ernie Hudson, and Theodus Crane from The Walking Dead. Comic guests include Larry Hama, Herb Trimpe, Justin Jordan, Ben Templesmith, as well as over eighty other artists and comic creators.

If buying comics, getting autographs, and meeting amazing creators isn’t enough, there are over fifty events, panels, presentations, contests, and Q&As. Highlights include Sci-Fi Speed Dating, Super Art Fight, four costume contests, and a concert! Kids can enjoy the KIDS ARE AWESOME room, filled with art supplies. If you love gaming, you’ll have a blast in the Mind Of The Geek Game Room, with over a dozen scheduled events, plus free play.

“We are bringing a big convention feel to Washington, DC. This is the type of event the people of this area deserve,” said Steve Anderson, co-promoter of Awesome Con DC and owner of Third Eye Comics.

Tickets are on sale now, and will be available at the door. To buy tickets or to learn more about Awesome Con D.C., check out www.awesomecondc.com.

Contact:
Ben Penrod
301-455-3500

MegaCon 2012 Media Guest List Keeps Getting Bigger

Press Release:

ORLANDO MEGACON MEDIA GUEST LIST IS GETTING BIGGER

MegaCon, the largest comic book, anime, gaming and multi media event in the Southeast, is pleased to announce the addition of guests and events to its February 17^th – 19^th, 2012 show. MegaCon will take place at the Orange County Convention Center at 9800 International Drive in Orlando, FL.

TOM FELTON just added to the Megacon Media Guest list.  Tom played Draco Malfoy in all eight of the award winning Harry Potter movies. He also recently portrayed Dodge Landon in the award winning Rise of the Planet of the Apes.

Other media stars include:

Star Trek Voyager – Robert Picardo (The Doctor), Tim Russ (Tuvok)

Vampire Diaries – Joseph Morgan (Klaus), David Anders (John Gilbert), Lauren Cohan (Rose)

Babylon 5 – Bruce Boxleitner (John Sheridan), Peter Jurasik (Londo Mollari), and Stephen Furst (Vir Cotto)

Star Wars – David Prowse (Darth Vader), Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), Richard LeParmentier (Admiral Motti) and Daniel Logan (Boba Fett)

Warehouse 13 – Eddie McClintok (Pete Lattimer), Sal Rubinek (Artie Nielson), Kate Mulgrew (Jane Lattimer

Buffy the Vampire Slayer/Angel – Charisma Carpenter (Cordelia Chase), Nicholas Brendon (Xander Harris)

StarGate – Tony Amendola (Natchok Var), Paul McGillion (Dr. Carson Beckett), Corin Nemec (Jonas Quinn)

Wayne’s World, True Lies, Krull the Conquerer, Warehouse 13 – Tia Carrere

Ghosthunter’s International – Scott Tepperman, Paul Bradford

Robot Chicken – Matt Senreich, Zeb Wells

Other events include:

Friday evening Indy Film Festival, Zombie Walk, Friday evening reception at the Doubletree International for MegaCon Hotel guests, Lightning Fast Speed Dating, Live music by Emerald Rose, Frenchy and the Punk, and Vic Mignogna, Saturday night anime dance, anime viewing room, Saturday night party at the Rosen Plaza, all three days Paint and Take, RPG, LARP, Card gaming and much more…

MegaCon sponsors: I AM 3D, Funimation, Comics Guaranty Corporation and Students of the Unusual

Check www.MegaConvention.com frequently for more updates.

 

MegaCon 2012

Orange County Convention Center – West Building

Orlando, Florida

Contact Info: info@megaconvention.com or www.megaconvention.com

MegaCon Announces Initial 2012 Guest Lineup Including Kate Mulgrew

Press Release:

ORLANDO MEGACON ANNOUNCES INITIAL 2012 GUEST LINEUP

MegaCon, the largest comic book, anime, gaming and multi media event in the Southeast, is pleased to make its initial announcement of guests. MegaCon will take place February 17^th – 19^th, 2012 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL.

MegaCon is proud to announce the appearance of Kate Mulgrew who played Captain Kathryn Janeway from the TV series Star Trek: Voyager

Comic book guests include: Tony Bedard, Dennis Calero, Nick Cardy, Frank Cho, Amanda Conner, Daxiong, Dan DiDio, Chuck Dixon, Paul Gulacy, Cully Hamner, Phil Hester, Rob Hunter, Dan Jurgens, Barbara Kesel, Pablo Marcos, Phil Noto, Jimmy Palmiotti, Dan Parent, Paul Pelletier, Brandon Peterson, Stephane Roux, Frank Tieri, Tim Townsend, Billy Tucci, Ethan Van Sciver, Zeb Wells

Media guests include stars from Star Trek, Warehouse 13, Vampire Diaries, Star Wars, Babylon 5, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Stargate, Robot Chicken and Ghost Hunters International.  These stars include: Kate Mulgrew, Brent Spiner, Eddie McClintok, Sal Runbinek, Tia Carrere, David Anders, Joseph Morgan, Laura Cohan, David Prowse, Daniel Logan, Richard LeParmetier, Peter Mayhew, Valerie Perrine, Bruce Boxleitner, Stephen Furst, Peter Jurasik, Corin Nemec, Tony Amendola, Paul McGillion, Scott Tepperman, and Nicholas Brendon.

Live Music on all three days by popular Celtic Band: Emerald Rose.

Other events include: children events provided by the Skiffytown Heroes, paint and take room, RPG gaming events, anime events, LAN room, belly dancing, Indy Film Festival, movie trailers screening room, Saturday evening dance, late night adult only dance, and professional panel room.

The MegaCon guest list is constantly growing. Check www.MegaConvention.com frequently for more updates.

MegaCon 2012
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando, Florida
February 17^th – 19^th, 2012
Contact Info: info@megaconvention.com or www.megaconvention.com

Stan Lee Extends Appearance at Albuquerque Comic Expo 2011

Press Release:

STAN LEE EXTENDS HIS APPEARANCE AT THE ALBUQUERQUE COMIC EXPO

ALBUQUERQUE, NM – June 20th, 2011 Due to overwhelming demand from the public, and the support of thousands of dedicated fans, the Albuquerque Comic Expo is pleased to announce that Stan Lee will be extending his appearance through Sunday, June 26th. Mr. Lee will continue his signing appearance that was originally scheduled for Saturday, June 25th only through Sunday, allowing the public a better chance of meeting the comic book legend.

Stan Lee is the Founder, Chairman and Chief Creative Officer of POW! Entertainment, LLC. Stan Lee’s famous co-creations include Spider-Man, The Incredible Hulk, X-Men, The Fantastic Four and Iron Man among many others. Lee, known to millions as the man who’s Super Heroes propelled Marvel Comics to its preeminent position in the comic book industry, first became publisher of Marvel Comics in 1972.

The Albuquerque Comic Expo is the Southwest’s premier comic book, pop culture, and entertainment convention. Mr. Lee will join a host of other comic book professionals and celebrities, such as LeVar Burton and Marina Sirtis (Star Trek), Peter Mayhew and Jeremy Bulloch (Star Wars), Lloyd Kaufman (Toxic Avenger), and Nicholas Brendon (Buffy the Vampire Slayer).

The Albuquerque Comic Expo takes place June 24th, 25th, and 26th at the Albuquerque Convention Center. For more information, visit the Expo’s website at www.abqcomicexpo.com.

 

Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con 2011 Programming Announced

Press Release:

‘Green Lantern’ Panels, Bruce Campbell, Billy Dee Williams, ‘Batman’ Q&As, ‘Kids’ Day,’ ‘Buffyfests’ Highlight Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con Programming

Julie Benz, Adam Baldwin, Margot Kidder Q&A’s, Evening ‘Zombie Beach Party,’ ‘Terminator’ Panel, ‘Wizard School,’ and Costume Contests Also On Tap For June 17-19 at Pennsylvania Convention Center

NEW YORK and PHILADELPHIA, June 2, 2011 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con today announced its diverse programming schedule, featuring unique celebrity Q&A’s, music, film screenings and discussions, artist schools, contests and more for the event, set for Friday through Sunday, June 17-19 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Some of the highlights include:

• “Buffyfests” with “Buffy: The Vampire Slayer” stars Nicholas Brendon, Kelly Donovan, Mercedes McNab and Clare Kramer
• “Green Lantern” franchise discussions with featured creators like Ethan Van Sciver, Carlos Pacheco, Shane Davies, Todd Klein and others
• Rare Q&A sessions with Margot Kidder (“Lois Lane” from the SUPERMAN movies), Julie Benz (“Dexter,” “No Ordinary Family), Bruce Campbell (“Burn Notice,” ARMY OF DARKNESS), and Adam Baldwin (SERENITY, “Firefly”)
• “Stargate Universe” Q&A with the beautiful tandem of Alaina Huffman and Julia Benson
• “Kids’ Day” program with face painting, balloons, other fun activities specially designed for children
• Popular panels with Billy Dee Williams and the “Dynamic Duo,” Adam West and Burt Ward of “Batman” fame
• Sessions featuring stars of other huge multiplatform franchises such as STAR WARS (Jake Lloyd, Peter Mayhew, Daniel Logan), TERMINATOR (Michael Biehn, Kristanna Loken), “The Incredible Hulk” (Lou Ferrigno) and “The Walking Dead” (Chandler Riggs, Iron E. Singleton, Addy Miller)
• Wizard Art School and Q&A’s featuring leading creators like Bill Sienkiewicz, Greg Horn, Humberto Ramos, Mike Grell, Francisco Herrera and others
• The popular adult costume contest and fun kids costume contest with great prizes

Unless noted, Philadelphia Comic Con programming will take place in the designated panel rooms at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and is included with admission to the event.  Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels.  The full schedule is below:

Friday

2:00-2:30PM
Lou Ferrigno Q&A
Have your questions ready for the original Incredible Hulk Lou Ferrigno, or risk getting crushed. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. (Room B)

2:30-3:00PM
Margot Kidder Q&A
With a career spanning over forty years, and with countless roles on both the big and small screens, acting veteran Margot Kidder (Superman; Sisters; “Smallville”) makes a rare appearance at Philadelphia Comic Con to share her secrets to longevity in Hollywood. (Room B)

3:00-3:45PM
Exposed: The Secrets Of Professional Wrestling
Ted DiBiase, Virgil and Dawn Marie give fans the low down on what’s real and what’s not in the world of professional wrestling. (Room B)

4:00-4:45PM
Independent Filmmaking With Dan Fogler
Hollywood actor Dan Fogler (Balls of Fury; Fanboys; Kung Fu Panda) and his producing partner Thomas Sullivan will discuss making films outside of the mainstream Hollywood system, as well as the difficulties and freedoms of producing independent works. (Room B)

5:00-5:45PM
Claudia Christian Q&A
“Babylon 5” beauty Claudia Christian shares the secrets to her multi-faceted success, and previews a sneak peek of her new Showtime series “Look.” (Room A)

6:00-6:45PM
Terminator Panel With Michael Biehn And Kristanna Loken
Michael Biehn (Terminator) and Kristanna Loken (Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines) team up to talk about their respective roles as Sgt. Kyle Reese and T-X in the blockbuster movie trilogy. (Room A)

Jonathan Tiersten Performance
Actor and musician Jonathan Tiersten -from the 80′s classic Horror film Sleepaway Camp, and his latest movie The Perfect House – will be performing his latest CD called We’ll See, which is featured in the film The Perfect House. Q&A will follow. (Room A)

Saturday

11:00-11:45AM
Buffyfest Q&A With Nicholas Brendon And Kelly Donovan
“Buffy The Vampire Slayer” star Nicholas Brendon (Xander Harris) sits down with his on and off-screen twin brother Kelly Donovan to take fan questions about life during and after the pop culture phenomenon. (Room A)

Digital Comics and the New Publishing Model (Room B)
Borders is failing and Comixology is trending. What does this mean for the future of comics? Get advice on formatting, marketing, publishing and more from creators who’ve successfully made the crossover from web to print. (Room B)

12:00-12:45 PM
Star Wars Q&A With Jake Lloyd, Peter Mayhew And Daniel Logan
The stars behind Anakin Skywalker, Chewbacca and Boba Fett take fan questions and discuss their thoughts on the evolution of one of the highest grossing film franchises in history. (Room A)

Mike Grell Q&A
The legendary comic icon behind classic Legion of Super-Heroes Tales and Warlord talks about his tips of the trade and shares his secrets from making it in comics. (Room B)

1:00-1:45PM
Billy Dee Williams Q&A
“Lando” lands at Philadelphia Comic Con! Don’t miss it as the coolest man in STAR WARS history sits down to take fan questions. (Room A)

Breaking Into Comics With Humberto Ramos, Francisco Herrera And Edgar Segura
Fan favorites Humberto Ramos (Wonder Woman; Astonishing X-Men), Francisco Herrera and Edgar Segura (Superman/Batman) team up to give out their tips on refining your art, pitching to publishers, and any other sound advice they can think of about working in comics. (Room B)

Smurfology 101
This year “The Smurfs” animated series will be celebrating its 30th Anniversary with a new feature film to be released later this summer. The loveable blue gnomes are preparing to Smurf their way into the pop culture landscape yet again! Follow the world’s leading Smurfologist Matt Murray as he traces the Smurfs roots from character concepts for an unproduced Belgian short film, to global TV superstars and beyond. Includes special glimpses from Murray’s upcoming book The World of Smurfs, due from Abrams Image in August. (Room C)

2:00-2:45PM
Boondock Saints Q&A With Norman Reedus And Sean Patrick Flanery
The pair known as Murphy and Connor MacManus in The Boondock Saints I and II reteam for a special Q&A session where they will share the details behind the movies, their careers, and everything you never got to see onscreen. (Room A)

Green Lantern Panel Part I
Some of the minds behind Green Lantern team up to discuss the writing and sketching processes behind one of comics’ most popular series. Featuring artists Ethan Van Sciver, Carlos Pachecho, Prentis Rollins and writer Tony Bedard. (Room B)

3:00-3:45PM
Julie Benz Q&A
As a star of hit shows like “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Dexter” and “No Ordinary Family,” Benz talks to fans about her extensive career, ups and downs in the industry and her thoughts on the new generation of sci-fi and fantasy on television. (Room A)

Digital Art School W/ Greg Horn
Superstar Marvel and DC artist Greg Horn (Blackest Night covers) leads a discussion on digital art and
takes you through his creative process. (Room B)

4:00-4:45PM
Batman And Robin Q&A With Adam West And Burt Ward
The original ’60s Dynamic Duo reteams for this one-of-a-kind Q&A, where Batman and Robin drop their masks and talk about their lady co-stars, the villains they faced and the wild nights after the show! (Room A)

Wizard Art School With Bill Sienkiewicz
Join Eisner Award winning artist Bill Sienkiewicz (Batman: The Widening Gyre covers), as he gives an insiders’ look at his art processes, and gives advice on his personal do’s and don’ts of the trade to new creators interested in sequential storytelling. (Room B)

5:00-5:45PM
Bruce Campbell Q&A
Best known for his roles on the big screen in cult classics such as Army of Darkness and Evil Dead, or as Sam Axe in the hit television show “Burn Notice,” Bruce Campbell has proven to be a force to be reckoned with both on-screen and behind-the-scenes as an actor, director and author. Don’t miss an opportunity to ask him questions when he makes a rare appearance at Philadelphia Comic Con. (Room A)

6:00-8:00PM
Costume Contest
Get your best costume together and come on down to Wizard World’s Philadelphia Comic Con costume contest for fun prizes and some of the craziest outfits you’ll see this weekend. (Room A)

7:00-9:00PM
SPECIAL FILM SCREENING – TBD (Room C)

8:00-9:00PM
Official Wizard World Zombie Beach Party
After the show, the party continues at The Zombie Beach Party! Professional makeup artists will transform you into a zombie for the night ($10 face painting fee), then let loose and party with DJ Kiltboy and Dave Ghoul. The Slotcars and The Sharkskins will also take the stage, and don’t miss out on the prizes for the most creative zombies of the night. Wizard World Comic Con attendees are free with wristband; guest tickets are $10. (Trocadero Theatre – 1003 Arch Street )

Sunday

Free Felix The Cat Prints
Visit Don Oriolo -CEO of Felix the Cat Productions- to pick up your free autographed Felix the Cat print. (Booth TBD)

11:00-11:45AM
Buffyfest Q&A With Mercedes McNab And Clare Kramer
Join the ladies known as Harmony and Glory on the hit TV show “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” as they discuss their days on the show and dish about what went on behind-the-scenes of the show that just won’t die. (Room A)

12:00-12:45pm
Walking Dead Q&A With Chandler Riggs, Iron E. Singleton And Addy Miller
AMC’s ambitious horror series based on Robert Kirkman’s ultra-hot zombie series from Image, now comes to life from director Frank Darabont (“The Green Mile”)! Check out this amazing preview of behind-the-scenes footage and extended clips along with a Q&A with some of the show’s stars. (Room A)

Green Lantern Panel Part II
Green Lantern artists Shane Davis and Tyler Kirkham and writer Todd Klein continue the Green Lantern discussion in part II of the series, sharing the storytelling processes behind some of your favorite comic minds. (Room B)

1:00-1:45pm
Stargate Universe Q&A With Alaina Huffman And Julia Benson (Room A)
Alaina Huffman and Julia Benson take to the stage to spill on their days as the leading ladies Tamara Johansen and Vanessa James from the wildly popular sci-fi series “Stargate Universe.” (Room A)

Kids’ Day Program – TBD (Room B)

2:00-3:00PM
Adam Baldwin Q&A
With roles on sci-fi classics such as Serenity, “Firefly,” “The X-Files” and “Angel,” Adam Baldwin’s extensive résumé speaks for itself. Don’t miss his Wizard World Comic Con debut, where he will sit down to answer fan questions and share his favorite moments from the shows we’ve all come to love. (Room A)

Kids’ Costume Contest
Bring kids 10 and under for this special event with fun prizes just for families and the youngsters. (Room B)

3:00-3:45PM
Sound Of Musical Interlude With Ethan Van Sciver
The halls are alive with the sound of…“music.” Ethan Van Sciver (Flash: Rebirth) invites you to spend the hour trapped in a small room discussing cannibalism, Wolverine, deviancy and all manner of filth and disease through the art of song. Not since Liberace has anyone tickled the ivories with such aplomb. Well, Richard Marx was good… but Ethan is good too! Come and see! (Room B)

Philadelphia Comic Con is the sixth stop on Wizard World’s 2011 North American tour.  Hours are Friday, June 17, noon – 8 p.m., Saturday, June 18, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Sunday, June 19, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworld.com/philadelphia.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door.  Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($35 on site); three-day weekend tickets are $45 ($55 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult).  VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available on a limited basis.

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. Wizard World also produces Wizard World Digital, an online publication covering new and upcoming products and talents in the pop culture world, and is distributed on a weekly basis to online and iPad users worldwide.

For the most recent event information please visit www.wizardworld.com and become a Philadelphia Comic Con Fan on Facebook.

***** SAVE THE 2011/12 DATES *****
June 17-19 – Philadelphia Comic Con
August 11-14 – Chicago Comic Con
September 17-18  – New England Comic Con
September 24-25 – Los Angeles Comic Con
October 22-23 – Mid-Ohio Comic Con
October 28-30 – Central Canada Comic Con (C4)
November 11-13 – Austin Comic Con
January 28-29, 2012 – New Orleans Comic Con
March 23-25, 2012 – Toronto Comic Con
April 27-29, 2012 – Anaheim Comic Con
December 8-9, 2012 – Miami Comic Con

 

Wizard World Announces Anaheim Comic Con 2011 Programming

 

Press Release:

‘Grease’ Cast Sing-A-Long, ‘Buffyfest’ Q&A, Panels Featuring ‘Batman’ ‘The Guild’ Actors, Tricia Helfer Highlight Wizard World Anaheim Comic Con Programming

‘Secrets of Pro Wrestling,’ Wizard Spotlights, ‘Wizard School,’ Voice Actors, Musical Intermissions and Costume Contests Also On Tap For April 29 – May 1 at Anaheim Convention Center

NEW YORK and ANAHEIM, Calif., April 14, 2011 – Wizard World Anaheim Comic Con today announced its diverse programming schedule, featuring unique celebrity Q&A’s, music, screenings, artist schools and more for the event, set for Friday, Saturday and Sunday, April 29 – May 1 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

Some of the highlights include:
–A Grease cast Sing-A-Long, featuring original movie director Randal Kleiser, cast members Jamie Donnell (Jan), Annette Cardona (Cha Cha) and Jeff Conaway (Kenickie)
–Popular “Batman” panel with Adam West, Burt Ward, Julie Newmar and Lee Meriwether, helping commemorate the 45th anniversary of the start of the iconic television program
–Rare Q&A session with Tricia Helfer, discussing her roles in “Battlestar Galactica,” “Burn Notice” and other appearances
–Special screening of Disney’s “Messenger from Hell,” the first episode of the important new Stan Lee/Neal Adams motion comic “They Spoke Out: American Voices of Protest Against the Holocaust”
–“Buffyfest” Q&A with Nicholas Brendon and twin brother Kelly Donovan
–Wizard Art School and Q&A’s featuring leading artists like Michael Golden, Bill Sienkiewicz, Mike Grell, Greg Horn and others
–Music and entertainment intermissions by “Jedi Elvis,” the L.A. Dance Co., and “The Force Experience”
–Stars of “The Guild,” Amy Okuda, Vincent Caso and Robin Thorsen talk about the popular Web series
–The popular adult costume contest and fun kids costume contest with great prizes

Unless noted, Anaheim Comic Con programming will take place in Room A and Room B at the Anaheim Convention Center, and is included with admission to the event. Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels.

The full schedule is below:

Friday

6:00-6:45PM
Exposed: Secrets Of Professional Wrestling
Ted DiBiase and Virgil give fans the low down on what’s real and what’s not in the world of professional wrestling. (Room B)

7:00-7:45PM
Behind The Scenes With Dan Fogler
Actor Dan Fogler (Take Me Home Tonight; Kung Fu Panda; Mars Needs Moms) sits down dish on everything from the on-set shenanigans, to what it’s like behind the scenes of a Hollywood set. (Room B)

8:00-8:45PM
Way Of The Nerd (Room A)
Join Way of the Nerd author Ken Goldstein as he talks about the book and how it teaches people how to reach extraordinary goals, with an emphasis on making a living as an artist in video games, comic books and toys (Room A)

9:00-10:00PM
“SNAKE And Mongoose” Preview Screening (Room A)

Saturday

10:45-11:00AM
L.A. Dance Co. Intermission
Come watch this L.A. dance troupe heat up the dance floor. (Room A)

11:00AM-7:00PM
Neko Press Comics Presents: Live Art Demo With Billy Martinez
Witness a masterpiece in the making from start to finish with a cutting-edge painting exhibition. Join Billy Martinez (Wildflower; The Deepest Dark) as he pulls back the curtain on his creative process, transporting you directly into his art studio with a musically-infused live art demo. (Booth 571)

11:00-11:45AM
Claudia Christian Q&A
“Babylon 5” beauty Claudia Christian shares the secrets to her multi-faceted success, and previews a sneak peek of her new Showtime series “Look.” (Room A)

Voice Acting Panel W/ Matthew Wolf, Neil Kaplan, And Charles Fleischer
Join some of the voices behind some of your favorite characters for this interactive panel. (Room B)

11:45-12:00PM
L.A. Dance Co. Intermission
Come watch this L.A. dance troupe heat up the dance floor. (Room A)

12:00-12:45AM
Grease Cast Sing-A-Long
“Oh Those Summer Nights!” Join the director of the film, Randal Kleiser, along with cast members Jamie Donnelly (Jan), Annette Cardona (Cha Cha) and Jeff Conaway (Kenickie), as select musical scenes are screened and the cast leads the audience in a true sing-a-long. Now is your chance to not only sing-a-long fellow GREASE fans, but alongside cast members from the film. Be part of the magic, don’t be shy! Cast Q&A to follow. (Room A)

Wizard Writing School: DJ Kirkbride, Jim Kreuger And Nathan Edmondson Q&A
Don’t miss this panel with award-winning writers DJ Kirkbride (PopGun), Nathan Edmondson (PopGun; Who is Jake Ellis?) and Jim Kreuger (Earth X) as they give their tips on writing for comics. (Room B)

12:45-1:00PM
L.A. Dance Co. Intermission
Come watch this L.A. dance troupe heat up the dance floor. (Room A)

1:00-1:45PM
Power Rangers Q&A
Join the colorful cast of characters from the popular series and its spin-offs as they discuss life before and after “The Power Rangers.” (Room A)

Harry Hamlin And Lisa Rinna Q&A
Celebrity husband and wife Harry Hamlin and Lisa Rinna dish on how they conquered everything from TV and movies to Broadway, and share their secrets to maintaining a successful marriage and family under the bright lights of Hollywood. (Room B)

1:45-2:00PM
L.A. Dance Co. Intermission
Come watch this LA dance troupe heat up the dance floor. (Room A)

2:00-2:20PM
“The Force Experience” Saber Show W/ The Saber Guild (Wizard Arena)

2:00-2:45PM
Buffyfest Q&A With Nicholas Brendon And Kelly Donovan
“Buffy The Vampire Slayer” star Nicholas Brendon (Xander Harris) sits down with his on and off-screen twin brother Kelly Donovan to take fan questions about life during and after the pop culture phenomenon. (Room A)

Breaking Into Comics With Phil Jimenez And Alé Garza (ROOM B)
Fan favorites Phil Jimenez (Wonder Woman; Astonishing X-Men) and Alé Garza (Superman/Batman) team up to give out their tips on refining your art, pitching to publishers, and any other sound advice they can think of about working in comics.

2:45-3:00PM
Jedi Elvis Intermission
Eric Cajiuat is…“Jedi Elvis”- an Elvis tribute artist who specializes in Elvis songs with Star Wars-themed parody lyrics. Catch him and his band The Rebel Alliance as they perform “Death Star Rock,” “Viva Mos Eisley,” “In The Desert” and more. (Room A)

3:00-3:45PM
Sound Of Musical Interlude With Ethan Van Sciver
The halls are alive with the sound of…“music.” Ethan Van Sciver (Flash: Rebirth) invites you to spend the hour trapped in a small room discussing cannibalism, Wolverine, deviancy and all manner of filth and disease through the art of song. Not since Liberace has anyone tickled the ivories with such aplomb. Well, Richard Marx was good… but Ethan is good too! Come and see! (Room A)

Smallville Q&A W/ Alaina Huffman And John Schneider
“Smallville” stars Alaina Huffman (Black Canary / Dinah Lance) and John Schneider (Jonathan Kent) answer fan questions about the popular TV series, and discuss their newest TV conquests. (Room B)

3:45-4:00PM
Jedi Elvis Intermission
Eric Cajiuat is…“Jedi Elvis”- an Elvis tribute artist who specializes in Elvis songs with Star Wars-themed parody lyrics. Catch him and his band The Rebel Alliance as he performs “Death Star Rock,” “Viva Mos Eisley,” “In The Desert” and more. (Room A)

4:00-4:45PM
Batman And Robin Q&A W/ Adam West, Burt Ward, Julie Newmar And Lee Meriwether
The ’60s Dynamic Duo reteams with their former first ladies for the 45th anniversary of the original hit show. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind Q&A, where Batman and Robin drop their masks and talk about their lady co-stars, the villains they faced and the wild nights after the show! (Room A)

Storytelling With Michael Golden
No matter if you’re a writer, artist or a reader of comics, come for this sit-down with one of the most renowned storytellers in the business, Michael Golden, as he tells you a few tricks of the trade that will help you no matter what type of story you tell or enjoy, in whatever medium. It’s a rare opportunity to talk with the co-creator of X-Men Rogue, and groundbreaking penciler on such projects as Bucky O’Hare, The ’Nam, Micronauts, G.I. Joe, and much more. (Room B)

4:45-5:00PM
Jedi Elvis Intermission
Eric Cajiuat is…“Jedi Elvis”- an Elvis tribute artist who specializes in Elvis songs with Star Wars-themed parody lyrics. Catch him and his band The Rebel Alliance as he performs “Death Star Rock,” “Viva Mos Eisley,” “In The Desert” and more. (Room A)

5:00-5:45PM
Tricia Helfer Q&A (Room A)
Tricia Helfer – also known as humanoid Cylon ‘Number Six’ on the critically acclaimed sci-fi series “Battlestar Galactica”- is making a rare appearance at the Anaheim Comic Con, so don’t miss your chance to chat with this multi-talented actress and model!

Wizard Writing School: Screenwriting W/ Adam Glass, Mike Benson And Zeb Wells
When they aren’t screenwriting for hit TV shows, Mike Benson (“Entourage”), writer/producer Adam Glass (“Supernatural”), and Zeb Wells (“Robot Chicken”) are writing your favorite comics. Get your questions together for this all-star panel, as they dish on making it in the industry. (Room B)

6:00-6:45PM
Kids Costume Contest
Bring kids 10 and under for this special event with great prizes just for families and the youngsters. (Room A)

6:45-8:30PM
Costume Contest
Get your best costume together and come on down to Wizard World’s Anaheim Comic Con costume contest for huge prizes and some of the craziest outfits you’ll see this weekend. (Room A)

7:00-9:00PM
Matt Cohen’s Smodcastle
Join Matt Cohen and a special celebrity guest host as they ponder and pontificate the finer points of existence… and generally offend a whole bunch of people. The show records live in front of an audience every Wednesday at The SmodCastle in Hollywood, and is brought to you by the SmodCast Network and Golden Apple Comics. It can be heard for free each Saturday at Smodcast.com and iTunes. For mature audiences only. (Room B)

Sunday

11:00AM-5:00PM
Neko Press Comics Presents: Live Art Demo With Billy Martinez
Witness a masterpiece in the making from start to finish with a cutting-edge painting exhibition. Join Billy Martinez (Wildflower; The Deepest Dark) as he pulls back the curtain on his creative process, transporting you directly into his art studio with a musically-infused live art demo. (Booth 571)

11:00-11:45AM
Special Presentation: Stan Lee, Neal Adams And Disney Take On The Holocaust
Comic book legends Stan Lee and Neal Adams have teamed up with Disney Educational Productions and Holocaust historian Dr. Rafael Medoff to create “They Spoke Out: American Voices of Protest Against the Holocaust,” a series of motion comics that are changing the way the Holocaust is taught in the United States. On Sunday, May 1, we will commemorate international Holocaust Remembrance Day with Dr. Medoff presenting the first episode of this remarkable new series, narrated by Lee and illustrated by Adams. “Messenger from Hell” tells the amazing story of a Polish courier who smuggled himself into a Nazi death camp, and then made his way to the U.S. to alert Americans about the genocide. (Room A)

The Guild Q&A
“The Guild” stars Amy Okuda, Vincent Caso and Robin Thorsen sit down to talk about the popular web series, and dish about all of the behind-the-scenes drama that you never saw on-screen.

12:00-12:15PM
“THE Force Experience” Saber Show W/ The Saber Guild (WIZARD Arena)

12:00-12:45PM

Video Game Music Composition With Kevin Sherwood
(Room A)

Mike Grell Q&A
The “X-Men” and “Star Wars: Episode I—The Phantom Menace” star engages fans in this one-of-a-kind Q&A, where he discusses his extensive film biography and his evolution to genre icon. (Room B)

1:00-1:45PM
Digital Art School W/ Greg Horn
Superstar Marvel and DC artist Greg Horn (Blackest Night covers) leads a discussion on digital art and
takes you through his creative process. (Room A)

Con Costuming With The Rebel Legion
The Rebel Legion costuming group shares their tips, skills and ideas on how to build and improve your comic con costumes. Whether you’re a Jedi, Rebel Pilot, Trooper, or Princess, they will share their knowledge on how to make sure your costume is the best. (Room B)

2:00-2:45PM
Ray Park Q&A
The “X-Men” and “Star Wars: Episode I—The Phantom Menace” star engages fans in this one-of-a-kind Q&A, where he discusses his extensive film biography and his evolution to genre icon. (Room A)

Wizard Art School With Bill Sienkiewicz
Join Eisner Award winning artist Bill Sienkiewicz (Batman: The Widening Gyre covers), as he gives an insiders’ look at his art processes, and gives advice on his personal do’s and don’ts of the trade to new creators interested in sequential storytelling. (Room B)

3:00-3:30PM
Split Decision Improv Group

Anaheim Comic Con is the fourth stop on Wizard World’s 2011 North American tour, which to date has 13 events scheduled. Hours are Friday, April 29, 5-9 p.m., Saturday, April 30, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Sunday, May 1, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.. Tickets are available in advance online at www.wizardworld.com/anaheim.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are $25 ($30 on site); three-day weekend tickets are $45 ($50 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World is a producer of pop culture and multimedia conventions across North America that markets movies, TV shows, video games, technology, toys, social networking/gaming platforms, comic books and graphic novels. It has the rights to the names, marks, domains, customer lists and production rights for a portfolio of pop culture and multimedia conventions.

For the most recent event information please visit www.wizardworld.com and become an Anaheim Comic Con Fan on Facebook.

OH – Free Comic Book Day 2011

Nicholas Brendon, Billy West, Chris Sprouse, Steve Scott, and many more sign on May 7th, 2011.

Press Release:

Join us for 10th anniversary of Free Comic Book Day, loaded with actors, writers, artists, wrestlers, superheroes and of course free comic books! A festival of activities and games along with face painting and fun in the bounce house. Of course Nerd Night will be following FCBD in the evening!

Details, tickets for meet & greet and bio’s can be found on our blog!

Actors:

Nicholas Brendon (Xander from Buffy the Vampire Slayer)
Billy West (Futurama, Ren & Stimpy, Howard Stern Show)
Nick Jones (John Stewart in Green Lantern live action movie)

Hang with The Dudes during an exclusive bowling meet & greet. Details can be found on our blog.

There is a small fee for autographs. You are welcome to bring your own item to have them sign it, but you will also be able to select from their photos. We will also have photo opportunities available with both Billy & Nicky. For $35 you can get your photo taken with them and get a personal autograph.

Artists:
Steve Scott
Chris Sprouse
Josh Medors
JD Larabee
Uko Smith
Scott D. Simmons
Victor Dandridge
Sean Forney
Joshua Peters
Lora Innes
Joel Jackon
James Moore
Jamie Snell
Dirk Manning
Molly Durst
Todd Beistel
Doug Hufford
Eric Adams
Max Ink
Seth Lyons
Matthew Swift
Bob Corby
Stephanie Forney

Nerd Night:

Live Wrestling

Charity Comic Book Poker Tournament (Billy & Nicky may be playing a few hands)

Open gaming

Bands Include:
Nerd Table
Seven Book Trilogy
The Out
Hubris
The Fritz

Packrat Comics
3864 Lattimer Street, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
(614) 527-8450

Wizard World Toronto Comic Con 2011 Programming Announced

Press Release:

‘Buffyfest,’ ‘Star Wars,’ ‘BSG,’ Julie Benz, Billy Dee Williams, Scott Thompson Panels Plus Fan Groups Parade Highlight Wizard World Toronto Comic Con Programming

‘Secrets of Pro Wrestling,’ Wizard Spotlights, ‘Wizard School’ and Costume Contests Also On Tap For March 18-20 at Direct Energy Centre

TORONTO, March 8, 2011 – Wizard World Toronto Comic Con today announced its diverse programming schedule, featuring unique celebrity Q&A’s, parades, artist schools and more for the event, set for Friday, Saturday and Sunday, March 18-20 at the Direct Energy Centre.

Some of the highlights include:
Rare Q&A panels with Scott Thompson and Julie Benz, as well as popular Comic Con guest Billy Dee Williams
“Battlestar Galactica” panels featuring stars Aaron Douglas and Kate Vernon
STAR WARS sessions with Ray Park (Darth Maul), Daniel Logan (Boba Fett), Jake Lloyd (Anakin Skywalker), Peter Mayhew (original Chewbacca) and Jeremy Bulloch (original Boba Fett)
“Buffyfest” Q&As with Nicholas Brendon, Clare Kramer, Mercedes McNab and Mark Metcalf
Troopers, knights, Ghostbusters and other groups take over the Direct Energy Centre floor with a parade of fan groups
Wizard Art School and Q&A’s featuring leading artists like Mitch Breitweiser, Michael Golden, Bill Sienkiewicz, Mike Grell, Phil Jimenez, Greg Horn and others
The popular adult costume contest and fun kids costume contest with great prizes
Toronto Comic Con programming will take place in Room A and Room B at the Direct Energy Centre, and is included with admission to the event. Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels. The full schedule is below, as well as linked at http://www.wizardworld.com/programming-toronto.html:

Friday

5:00-5:45PM
Exposed: Secrets Of Professional Wrestling
Ted DiBiase and Virgil give fans the low down on what’s real and what’s not in the world of professional wrestling. (Room B)

6:00-6:45PM
Aaron Douglas Q&A
Best known for his role on “Battlestar Galactica” as Chief Galen Tyrol, Douglas can now be seen on “Hellcats” on The CW, and here he answers all of your questions during this exclusive Wizard World Toronto Comic Con session. (Room A)

7:00-8:00PM
Constellation Awards Preview (room A)

Saturday

11:00-11:45AM
Claudia Christian Q&A
“Babylon 5” beauty Claudia Christian shares the secrets to her multi-faceted success, and previews a sneak peek of her new Showtime series “Look.” (Room A)

12:00-12:45AM
Julie Benz Q&A
As a star of hit shows like “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Dexter” and “No Ordinary Family,” Benz talks to fans about her extensive career, ups and downs in the industry and her thoughts on the new generation of sci-fi and fantasy on television. (Room A)

Francis Manapul Q&A
Francis Manapul (The Flash) gives his advice on the do’s and don’ts of the trade to new creators interested in becoming professional comic artists. (Room B)

1:00-1:45PM
Billy Dee Williams Q&A
Lando lands at Toronto Comic Con! The coolest man in Star Wars history sits down to take fan questions. (Room A)

Who Wants To Be On A Reality Show?! Hosted by Jarrett “The Defuser” Crippen
Have you ever wanted to be on a reality show? Are you curious as to what the producers are looking for? Come get inside tips about reality shows and what it takes to win from the winner of Stan Lee’s “Who Wants to be a Superhero?” Season II. The Defuser (Jarrett Crippen) will talk about and answer questions regarding the audition process, competition, living conditions and other topics related to his show and reality shows in general. (Room B)

2:00-2:45PM
Buffyfest Q&A With Nicholas Brendon
Buffy’s Xander Harris sits down to take fan questions about life during and after the pop culture phenomenon. (Room A)

Mitch Breitweiser Q&A
Mitch Breitweiser (Captain America; Fantastic Four) discusses his drawing style and his part in the neoclassical illustration movement. (Room B)

3:00-3:15PM
Groups Of The Con Parade
Join troopers, knights, Ghostbusters and more, as they parade around the convention floor.

3:00-3:45PM
Peter Mayhew And Jeremy Bulloch Q&A
The original Chewbacca and Boba Fett take fan questions and discuss their thoughts on the evolution of one of the highest grossing film franchises in history. (Room A)

The Hulk Q&A With Jeff Parker And Dale Keown
Two of the minds behind The Hulk team up to discuss the writing and sketching processes behind one of comics’ most popular franchises. (Room B)

4:00-4:45PM
Jake Lloyd And Daniel Logan Q&A
As the newest and youngest generation of Star Wars icons, Lloyd and Logan discuss their roles as Anakin Skywalker and Boba Fett, and what it was like being the child stars on set. (Room A)

Storytelling With Michael Golden
No matter if you’re a writer, artist or a reader of comics, come for this sit-down with one of the most renowned storytellers in the business, Michael Golden, as he tells you a few tricks of the trade that will help you no matter what type of story you tell or enjoy, in whatever medium. It’s a rare opportunity to talk with the co-creator of X-Men Rogue, and groundbreaking penciler on such projects as Bucky O’Hare, The ’Nam, Micronauts, G.I. Joe, and much more. (Room B)

5:00-5:45PM
Behind The Scenes Of “Danny Husk: The Hollow Planet”
Scott Thompson (“The Kids in the Hall”) will take you behind the scenes and into the pages of his newest Frozen Beach graphic novel “Danny Husk: The Hollow Planet.” At the Q&A panel, several lucky attendees will win an autographed copy of “Danny Husk: The Hollow Planet,” the signed CGC preview of the OGN and a CGC certified autographed photo of Scott Thompson. (Room A)

Bill Sienkiewicz Q&A
Legendary artist Bill Sienkiewicz (Batman: The Widening Gyre covers) gives an insiders’ look at his award winning art process. (Room B)

6:00-6:30PM
Kid’s Costume Contest
Bring any kids 10 and under for this special event with great prizes just for families and the youngsters. (Room A)

6:30-8:30PM
Costume Contest: Sponsored By Warner Bros. “Sucker Punch”
Here’s your chance to witness some of the craziest outfits you’ll see this weekend, and catch a sneak preview of Warner Bros. new film “Sucker Punch.” There will be a special “Sucker Punch” category, so get your best costumes together for a chance at a special prize. (Room A)

Sunday

12:00-12:45PM
Battlestar Galactica Q&A With Kate Vernon And Aaron Douglas
Vernon and Douglas talk about their roles as Ellen Tigh and Chief Galen Tyrol, and share what went on behind-the-scenes on the set of the popular sci-fi series “Battle Star Galactica.” (Room A)

Between The Lines With Mike Grell
The legendary comic icon behind classic Legion of Super-Heroes Tales and Warlord talks about his tips of the trade and shares his secrets from making it in comics. (Room B)

1:00-1:45PM
Chandler Riggs Q&A With Walking Dead Preview
AMC’s ambitious horror series, based on Robert Kirkman’s ultra-hot zombie series from Image, now comes to life from director Frank Darabont (“The Green Mile”)! Check out this amazing preview of behind-the-scenes footage and extended clips along with a Q&A with Chandler Riggs. (Room A)

Buffyfest Q&A With Mercedes Mcnab, Clare Kramer And Mark Metcalf
Join “Buffy the Vampire Slayer’s” Harmony, Glory and The Master, as they discuss their days on the hit TV show. (Room B)

2:00-2:45PM
Ray Park Q&A
The “X-Men” and “Star Wars: Episode I—The Phantom Menace” star engages fans in this one-of-a-kind Q&A, where he discusses his extensive film biography and his evolution to genre icon. (Room A)

Phil Jimenez: Breaking Into Comics
Have your questions ready because School of Visual Arts instructor and comic pro Phil Jimenez is ready to give fans an interactive tutorial on everything you need to know to draw comics. (Room B)

3:00-3:15PM
Groups Of The Con Parade
Join troopers, knights, Ghostbusters and more, as they parade around the convention floor.

3:00-3:45PM
Wizard’s Digital Art School With Greg Horn
Superstar Marvel and DC artist Greg Horn (Blackest Night covers) leads a discussion on digital art and
takes you through his creative process. (Room A)

Comic Con Costuming With The Rebel Legion
The Rebel Legion costuming group shares their tips, skills and ideas on how to build and improve your comic con costumes. Whether you’re a Jedi, Rebel Pilot, Trooper, or Princess, they will share their knowledge on how to make sure your costume is the best. (Room B)

Toronto Comic Con is the third stop on Wizard’s 2011 North American tour, which to date has 13 events scheduled. Hours are Friday, March 18, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Saturday, March 19, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday, March 20, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tickets are available in advance online at www.wizardworld.com/toronto.html at up to a 40% savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are $25 ($35 on site); three-day weekend tickets are $45 ($55 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available.

The Direct Energy Centre is located at Exhibition Place in Toronto. It is Canada’s largest facility for conventions, exhibitions and events. Exhibition Place, a 192 acre waterfront campus located in downtown Toronto, is home to a variety of venues including Direct Energy Centre, Allstream Centre, Better Living Centre and the Queen Elizabeth building among various other tenant properties.

About Wizard World, Inc.
In addition to the new online publication Wizard World, the company Wizard World, Inc. (the “Company”) is a producer of Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America. These events feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists, writers and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, exhibitors, retailers, panels, and costume contests. The Company began its 2011 Comic Con Tour in New Orleans in January 2011, and has scheduled 12 other Comic Cons in 2011 in large cities such as Anaheim, Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, Austin, and Boston.

For the most recent event information please visit www.wizardworld.com and become a Toronto Comic Con Fan on Facebook.

Wizard World Miami Comic Con 2011 Programming Schedule Released

Press Release:

‘Buffyfest,’ ‘Batman,’ Julie Benz, Billy Dee Williams, Scott Thompson Panels Plus Fan Groups Parade, ‘Are You Smarter Than A Ghostbuster?’ Highlight Miami Comic Con Programming

‘Secrets of Pro Wrestling,’ Wizard Spotlights, ‘Wizard School’ and Costume Contests Also On Tap February 26-27 at Miami Airport Convention Center (MACC)

MIAMI, February 10, 2011 – Wizard World Miami Comic Con today announced its diverse programming schedule, featuring unique celebrity Q&A’s, movie screenings, game shows, artist schools and more for the event, set for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 26-27 at the Miami Airport Convention Center.

Some of the highlights include:

* Rare Q&A panels with Scott Thompson and Julie Benz , as well as popular Comic Con guests Billy Dee Williams, Adam West and Burt Ward
* “Are You Smarter than a Ghostbuster” featuring Wizard World’s favorite Ghostbuster, Ernie Hudson
* “Buffyfest” with Nicholas Brendon and “Vampire Diaries” with Clare Kramer and Mercedes McNab
* Troopers, knights, Ghostbusters and other groups take over the Convention floor with a parade of fan groups
* Saturday evening programming for adults only, 300 Brigade Villains Unite Show and the Bagged and Boarded “Smodcast”
* Wizard Art School and Q&A’s featuring leading artists like Bill Sinkiewicz, Mike Grell, Phil Jimenez, Alé Garza, Michael Golden, Greg Horn and others
* The popular adult costume contest and fun kids costume contest with great prizes

Miami Comic Con programming will take place in Room A and Room B at the Miami Airport Convention Center, and is included with admission to the event. Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels. The full schedule is below:

Saturday

11:30AM-12:00PM
Exposed: Secrets Of Professional Wrestling
Wrestlers Kevin Nash, Candice Michelle and Angela Fong give fans the low down on what’s real and what’s not in the world of professional wrestling. (Room B)

12:00-12:30PM
Julie Benz Q&A
As a star of hit shows like “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Dexter” and “No Ordinary Family,” Benz talks to fans about her extensive career, ups and downs in the industry and her thoughts on the new generation of sci-fi and fantasy on television. (Room A)

1:00-1:45PM
Billy Dee Williams Q&A
Lando lands Miami Comic Con, as the coolest man in Star Wars history sits down to take fan questions. (Room A)

Filipe Andrade Unleashed
Andrade dishes on his new X-Men project: X-Men Unleashed, and offers tips about sustaining a career in comics whether you live in Manhattan or Siberia. (Room B)

2:00-2:15PM
Groups Of The Con Parade
Join troopers, knights, Ghostbusters and more, as they parade around the convention floor.

2:00-2:45PM
Buffyfest With Nicholas Brendon
Buffy’s “Xander Harris” sits down to take fan questions about life during and after the pop culture phenomenon. (Room A)

The Cutting Edge W/ Bill Sienkiewicz, David Mack And J. David Spurlock
Innovators Bill Sienkiewicz, David Mack, and J. David Spurlock discuss the wilder side of comics art. (Room B)

3:00-3:30PM
Are You Smarter Than A Ghostbuster? With Ernie Hudson
Think you know GHOSTBUSTERS? Go head-to-head with Mr. “Winston Zeddemore” himself, as the Orlando Ghostbusters test your movie knowledge of the 1984 classic. (Room A)

Tex: The Art Of Mark Texeira
The legendary Ghost Rider, Sabertooth, Wolverine artist talks with award-winning author J. David Spurlock (Room B)

4:00-4:45PM
Batman And Robin W/ Adam West And Burt Ward
The original ’60s Dynamic Duo reteams for this one-of-a-kind Q&A, where Batman and Robin drop their masks and talk about their lady co-stars, the villains they faced and the wild nights after the show!
(Room A)

Wizard Spotlight: Jim Starlin
Join award-winning Warlock and Captain Marvel writer-artist Jim Starlin, as he hosts a crash-course in comic writing. (Room B)

4:45-5:00PM
Miami Ballroom Dancers
Come watch this Miami dance troupe heat up the dance floor with an amazing cha-cha routine. (Room A)

5:00-5:45PM
Behind The Scenes Of “danny Husk: The Hollow Planet
Scott Thompson (“The Kids in the Hall”) and Stephan Nilson (President of Frozen Beach Studios) will take you behind the scenes and into the pages of their newest graphic novel “Danny Husk: The Hollow Planet.” At the Q&A panel, several lucky attendees will win an autographed copy of “Danny Husk: The Hollow Planet,” the signed CGC preview of the OGN and a CGC certified autographed photo of Scott Thompson.

Between The Lines W/ Alé Garza
Fan-favorite artist Alé Garza takes fans on an artistic tour of his style and storytelling. (Room B)

6:00-6:30PM
Kid’s Costume Contest
Bring any kids 10 and under for this special event with great prizes just for families and the youngsters. (Room B)

6:30-8:30PM
Costume Contest
Get your best costume together and come on down to Wizard’s Miami Comic Con costume contest for huge prizes and some of the craziest outfits you’ll see this weekend. (Room B)

9:00-9:45PM
The 3000 Brigade Presents: The Almost Got Em’ – Villains Unite Show!
This show is a parody of all aspects of convention, video game, comic, and anime fandom life. This time the 3000 Brigade will battle formidable foes, have sexy girls dances that interrupt everything, and of course ROCK YOUR SOCKS OFF in their sixth Spectacular Show! So be prepared to have your eyes and ears assaulted by the finest bunch of Cosplay/Comic Entertainers this side of the Mississippi. WARNING: This show can be crude, rude, explicit, and just plain wrong, so if you are easily offended please find something else to do at this fantastically awesome convention! (Room A)

10:00-11:00PM
Bagged And Boarded Smodcast W/ Matt Cohen And Branden Creecy
Join Matt Cohen, his friend Brendan Creecy and a special celebrity guest host, as they ponder and pontificate the finer points of existence…and generally offend a whole bunch of people. WARNING: Leave the kiddies at home; this program contains explicit content and is for adult audiences only! (Room A)

Sunday

11:00-11:45AM
Wizard Spotlight: Denise Crosby
Starring as “Tasha Yar” on “Star Trek: The Next Generation”, Crosby dishes on her early exit from the series, her memories of the first episodes and how “Next Generation” continues to endure.

Who Wants To Be On A Reality Show?! Hosted By Jarrett “The Defuser” Crippen
Have you ever wanted to be on a reality show? Are you curious as to what the producers are looking for? Come get inside tips about reality shows and what it takes to win from the winner of Stan Lee’s “Who Wants to be a Superhero?” Season II. The Defuser (Jarrett Crippen) will talk about and answer questions regarding the audition process, competition, living conditions and other topics related to his show and reality shows in general. (Room B)

12:00-12:45PM
Buffyfest With Clare Kramer And Mercedes Mcnab
McNab and Kramer talk about their days as “Harmony” and “Glory” in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” (Room A)

Phil Jimenez: Breaking Into Comics
The School of Visual Arts instructor and long-time comic pro covers the dos and don’ts on pitching yourself to comic companies and editors. (Room B)

1:00-1:45PM
Ray Park Q&A
The “X-Men” and “Star Wars: Episode I—The Phantom Menace” star engages fans in this one-of-a-kind Q&A, where he discusses his extensive film biography and his evolution to genre icon. (Room A)

Storytelling With Michael Golden
No matter if you’re a writer, artist or a reader of comics, come for this sit-down with one of the most renowned storytellers in the business, Michael Golden, as he tells you a few tricks of the trade that will help you no matter what type of story you tell or enjoy, in whatever medium. It’s a rare opportunity to talk with the co-creator of X-Men Rogue, and groundbreaking penciler on such projects as Bucky O’Hare, The ’Nam, Micronauts, G.I. Joe, and much more. (Room B)

2:00-2:45PM
Between The Lines With Mike Grell
The legendary comics icon behind classic Legion of Super-Heroes Tales and Warlord talks about his tips of the trade and shares his secrets from making it in comics. (Room A)

3:00-3:45PM
Wizard’s Digital Art School With Greg Horn
Superstar Marvel and DC artist Greg Horn (Blackest Night covers) leads a discussion on digital art and takes you through his creative process. (Room A)

Miami Comic Con is the second stop on Wizard’s 2011 North American tour, which to date has 13 events scheduled. Hours are Saturday, February 26, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Sunday, February 27, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.. Tickets are available in advance online at www.wizardworld.com/miami.html at up to a 20% savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are $25 ($30 on site); two-day weekend tickets are $40 ($45 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available.

Wizard Announces New Orleans Comic Con 2011 Programming

Press Release:

James Marsters Concert, “Buffyfest,” Billy Dee Williams, “Batman” Panels, Lou Gossett Jr. Spotlight, Live Art Show/After Party Highlight New Orleans Comic Con Programming

Julie Benz, Ray Park, “Walking Dead” Q&A’s, Artist Schools Also On Tap This Weekend

NEW ORLEANS, January 19, 2011 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con today announced its diverse programming schedule, featuring a James Marsters concert, unique celebrity Q&A’s, artist schools, costume contests and more for the event, set for Saturday and Sunday at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Some of the highlights include:

* A live concert featuring singer-songwriter-actor James Marsters
* “Wizard Spotlight” with legendary actor Louis Gossett Jr.
* Rare Q&A panels with Marsters, Julie Benz and Ray Park, as well as popular Comic Con guests Billy Dee Williams, Walter Koenig, Adam West and Burt Ward
* Two “Buffy: The Vampire Slayer” panels, featuring twins Nicholas Brendon and Kelly Donovon, and Clare Kramer and James Charles Leary
* ‘Walking Dead’ Q&A with stars Chandler Riggs, Keisha Tillis and Adrian Kali Turner
* Wizard Art School and Q&A’s featuring leading artists like David Mack, Bill Sinkiewicz, Cameron Stewart, Kevin Maguire, Yanick Paquette, Phil Jimenez and others
* Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con Live Art Show and After Party with Kody Chamberlain and Rob Guillory at Hey! Cafe (4332 Magazine St.)
* The popular adult costume contest and fun kids costume contest with great prizes

Standard New Orleans Comic Con programming will take place in Room A and Room B at Hall H of the Morial Convention Center. All programming is included with admission to the event, with the exception of the James Marsters Concert, which requires an additional ticket. Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels. The full schedule is below:

Saturday
11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
WHO WANTS TO BE ON A REALITY SHOW? W/ JARRETT CRIPPEN ‘THE DEFUSER’
Have you ever wanted to be on a reality show? Are you curious as to what the producers are looking for? Come get inside tips about reality shows and what it takes to win from the winner of Stan Lee’s “Who Wants to be a Superhero?” Season II. The Defuser (Jarrett Crippen) will talk about and answer questions regarding the audition process, competition, living conditions and other topics related to his show and reality shows in general. (Room B)

12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
JAMES MARSTERS Q&A
Best known for his role as Spike, the platinum blonde vampire on hit shows “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Angel,” James Marsters answers questions about everything from his evolution from acting to music and back, and the projects he plans to conquer in the next few years. (Room A)

WIZARD ART SCHOOL W/ DAVID MACK AND BILL SIENKIEWICZ
Legendary artists and long-time friends David Mack (Kabuki) and Bill Sienkiewicz (Batman: The Widening Gyre covers) unite for this insider look at their art processes, and give advice and their personal dos and don’ts of the trade to new creators interested in sequential storytelling. (Room B)

1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
BILLY DEE WILLIAMS Q&A
Lando lands at New Orleans Comic Con, as the coolest man in Star Wars history sits down to take fan questions. (Room A)

THE ART OF ‘CHEW’ AND ‘SWEETS’
Indie art sensations Kody Chamberlain (Sweets) and Rob Guillory (Chew) join the Wizard World Comic Con Tour and discuss their breakout Image hits. (Room B)

2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
BUFFYFEST Q&A W/ NICHOLAS BRENDON AND KELLY DONOVAN
Buffy’s “Xander Harris” sits down with his sinister twin brother to take fan questions about life during and after the pop culture phenomenon. (Room A)

WIZARD ART SCHOOL W/ CAMERON STEWART, KEVIN MAGUIRE AND YANICK PAQUETTE
Three of comics most renowned storytellers—Cameron Stewart (Batman & Robin), Kevin Maguire (Justice League International) and Yanick Paquette (Batman, Inc.)—discuss art, storytelling and working with collaborators in the digital age. (Room B)

3:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
BUFFYFEST Q&A W/ CLARE KRAMER AND JAMES CHARLES LEARY
Join “Buffy” stars Clare Kramer (Glory) and James Charles Leary (Clem) as the duo discuss the behind the scenes shenanigans and fun of shooting one of pop culture’s biggest hits. (Room A)

VICTOR GISCHLER Q&A
Famed novelist (Go-Go Girls of the Apocalypse) and comic book scribe Victor Gischler (X-Men: Curse of the Mutants) talks about his recent runs on X-Men and Deadpool as well as his novel background and his rise in comics. (Room B)

4:00 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
BATMAN AND ROBIN Q&A W/ ADAM WEST AND BURT WARD
The original ’60s “Dynamic Duo” re-teams for this one-of-a-kind Q&A, where Batman and Robin drop their masks and talk about their lady co-stars, the villains they faced and the wild nights after the show! (Room A)

SUPERSTARS OF WRESTLING
W/ KEVIN NASH
Professional grappler Kevin Nash pile drives and body slams your questions into the mat! (Room B)

5:00 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.
AARON DOUGLAS Q&A
Best known for his role on “Battlestar Galactica” as Chief Galen Tyrol, Aaron Douglas can now be seen on “Hellcats” on The CW, and here he answers all your questions during this exclusive Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con session. (Room A)

THE SOUND OF MUSICAL INTERLUDE W/ ETHAN VAN SCIVER
The halls are alive with the sound of…“music.” Ethan Van Sciver (Flash: Rebirth) invites you to spend the hour trapped in a small room discussing cannibalism, Wolverine, deviancy and all manner of filth and disease through the art of song. Not since Liberace has anyone tickled the ivories with such aplomb. Well, Richard Marx was good. But Ethan is good, too! Come and see! (Room 3)

6:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
KIDS’ COSTUME CONTEST
Bring any kids 10 and under for this special event with great prizes just for families and the youngsters. (Room A)

6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
ADULT COSTUME CONTEST
Get your best costume together and come on down to the Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con costume contest for huge prizes and some of the craziest outfits you’ll see this weekend. (Room A)

9:00 p.m. -10:00 p.m.
JAMES MARSTERS CONCERT
After enjoying sell-out crowds across the nation, singer/songwriter James Marsters performs a rare and intimate concert up close and personal with Wizard World fans. NOTE: ADDITIONAL TICKET REQUIRED. (Room A)

9:00 p.m.
THE WIZARD WORLD NEW ORLEANS COMIC CON LIVE ART SHOW AND AFTER PARTY W/ KODY CHAMBERLAIN AND ROB GUILLORY
Music by DJ Rüs with Jeff Hebert on drums Join us for this special after-hours event hosted by Kody Chamberlain (Sweets, 30 Days of Night) and Rob Guillory (Chew), and watch some of your favorite comic artists create original work from start to finish right before your eyes. This is a rare opportunity to hang out, network, and get to know some of the top artists in the business. Who knows, you may even get to own an original masterpiece! This is a free event; must be 18 to enter.
LOCATION: Hey! Café, 4332 Magazine St. (Corner of Magazine & Napoleon Ave.)

Sunday
11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
JULIE BENZ Q&A
The star of hit shows like “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Dexter” and “No Ordinary Family,” Julie Benz talks to fans about her extensive career, ups and downs in the industry and her thoughts on the new generation of sci-fi and fantasy on television. (Room A)

TERRY MOORE Q&A
The Strangers in Paradise and Echo creator takes fan questions on his plethora of critically acclaimed and fan-favorite comics as well as talks about his upcoming plans. (Room B)

12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
CLAUDIA CHRISTIAN Q&A PANEL W/ ‘LOOK’ PREVIEW
“Babylon 5” beauty Claudia Christian shares the secrets to her multi-faceted success, and previews a sneak peek of her new Showtime series “Look.” (Room A)

WIZARD ART SCHOOL W/ PHIL JIMENEZ AND JASON PEARSON
Superstar artists Phil Jimenez (Adventure Comics) and Jason Pearson (upcoming Astonishing X-Men) assemble to give out their tips on refining your art, pitching to Marvel and DC, and any other sound advice they can think of about working in comics (Room B)

1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
RAY PARK Q&A
The “X-Men” and “Star Wars: Episode I—The Phantom Menace” star engages fans in this one-of-a-kind Q&A, where he discusses his extensive film biography and his evolution to genre icon. (Room A)

STORYTELLING W/ MICHAEL GOLDEN
No matter if you’re a writer, artist or a reader of comics, come for this sit-down with one of the most renowned storytellers in the business, Michael Golden, as he tells you a few tricks of the trade that will help you no matter what type of story you tell or enjoy, in whatever medium. It’s a rare opportunity to talk with the co-creator of X-Men’s Rogue, and groundbreaking penciler on such projects as Bucky O’Hare, The ‘Nam, Micronauts, G.I. Joe, and much more. (Room B)

2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
WIZARD SPOTLIGHT: LOUIS GOSSETT JR.
Screen legend and Academy Award winner Louis Gossett Jr. (“Officer and a Gentleman,” “The Punisher,” “Iron Eagle,” “Enemy Mine”) joins the Wizard World Comic Con Tour and sits down for this exciting Q&A, telling the behind-the-scenes stories from the set and answering the questions you’ve always wanted to ask. (Room A)

MIKE GRELL AND MARK RYAN
The legendary comics icon behind classic Legion of Super-Heroes Tales and Warlord, Mike Grell, teams up with Transformers voice actor Mark Ryan (the voice of Bumblebee) to answer fan questions. (Room B)

3:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
WALTER KOENIG Q&A
The original “Star Trek” series’ Pavel Chekov, Walter Koenig beams into this Q&A, where he’ll answer any and all questions from the elite Trek fans at New Orleans Comic Con. (Room A)

JAMES O’BARR Q&A
The Crow creator talks about his dark creation, new comics and the plans for a new Crow franchise in the movies. (Room B)

4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
‘WALKING DEAD’ Q&A W/ CHANDLER RIGGS, KEISHA TILLIS AND ADRIAN KALI TURNER
AMC’s ambitious horror series, based on Robert Kirkman’s ultra-hot zombie series from Image, now comes to life from director Frank Darabont (“The Green Mile”)! Check out amazing behind-the-scenes footage and extended clips along with a Q&A with stars from AMC’s show. (Room A)

The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is located at 900 Convention Center Blvd. in New Orleans. New Orleans Comic Con is the first stop on Wizard’s 2011 North American tour, which to date has 13 events scheduled. Hours are Saturday, Jan. 29, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Jan. 30, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.. Tickets are available in advance or by calling 1-866-882-5860 and online at www.wizardworld.com/neworleans.html at up to a 15% savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are $25 ($30 on site); two-day weekend tickets are $40 ($45 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available.

The freshly renovated New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is an essential component of what makes the city’s major business events so successful. With 1.1 million square feet of contiguous exhibit space, the Convention Center is the sixth largest convention facility in the nation, and it consistently ranks in the country’s top ten of facilities that hold the most conventions and trade shows annually.

About Wizard Entertainment:
Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Shamus publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare and numerous books about pop-culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Shamus also produces a North American Comic Con tour. Wizard World Comic Con – The Pop-Culture Capital of the World!

For the most recent event information please visit www.wizardworld.com and become a New Orleans Comic Con Fan on Facebook.

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