Patrick Stewart Joins William Shatner at Chicago Comic Con 2010

Press Release:

“Star Trek” Generations Unite As Patrick Stewart Joins William Shatner For A Star Trek Celebration At Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

First Professional Photo Ops Together With Fans For Two Famed Captains

NEW YORK and CHICAGO, June 25, 2010 – “Star Trek” fans will have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to meet both Patrick Stewart and William Shatner at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, August 19-22 at the Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill., as Wizard CEO Gareb Shamus today confirmed Stewart’s scheduled attendance at the event. It will mark the first time that the respective Captains of the “Star Trek” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation” television series have appeared together for professional photo opportunities with the public.

Stewart is scheduled to appear at Chicago Comic Con on Friday, August 20, and Saturday, August 21, while Shatner is slated for Saturday, August 21, and Sunday, August 22.

Stewart, who portrayed “Captain Jean-Luc Picard” in “The Next Generation” was a huge hit at his first Wizard World event earlier this month at Philadelphia Comic Con. Shatner, famous for playing “Captain James T. Kirk” in the original show among many other well-known roles, is always a popular figure at Wizard shows, and will join Stewart on Saturday, August 21, on a panel discussing the “Star Trek” franchise and their respective careers.

“We are extremely excited to bring this first-time-ever opportunity with Patrick Stewart and William Shatner to Wizard World Chicago Comic Con.” said Shamus. “Stewart’s first Wizard World appearance in Philadelphia was very successful and we know that fans will come from far and wide to see the two Captains together in August.”

Fans can Visit www.wizardworld.com in the coming weeks for more details as they become available.

The Emmy-nominated Stewart, who has performed in more than 100 television and film roles, is one of several actors to appear in all three “X-Men” films: X-Men (2000), X2 (2003) and X-Men: The Last Stand (2006). His role as Captain Jean-Luc Picard, which started on Next Generation, placed him in four Star Trek films: Generations (1994) First Contact (1996), Insurrection (1998) and Nemesis (2002). He also served as the voice of numerous animated characters in movies like Chicken Little and Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, as well as popular TV shows such as “Family Guy” and “American Dad.”

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.

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

Wizard World Philadelphia Returns This June 2010

Press Release:

Wizard World’s Philadelphia Comic Con Returns To Philadelphia Convention Center For 10th Anniversary Celebration, June 11-13, 2010

William Shatner, Adam West, Bruce Campbell, James Marsters, Tia Carrere Among Celebrity Guests; Leading Comics Artists, Creative Directors and More than 150 Pop Culture Icons to Attend

PHILADELPHIA, May 4, 2010 — Philadelphia Comic Con, part of North America’s largest pop-culture touring expo, will return to the “City of Brotherly Love” for the 10th straight year with a three-day run at Philadelphia Convention Center, Friday through Sunday, June 11-13, 2010. Philadelphia Comic Con will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and more than 150 celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop culture movies, comics, toys, video gaming, television, anime, manga, horror, sports, original art, collectibles, contests, movie screenings, and more.

Among the scheduled celebrity guests at Philadelphia Comic Con are William Shatner (“Star Trek”), Adam West (“Batman,” “Family Guy,”) Bruce Campbell (Evil Dead, “Army of Darkness”), James Marsters (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” “Caprica,” “Smallville”), Tia Carrere (Wayne’s World, “Curb Your Enthusiasm”; “Relic Hunter”), Clare Kramer (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” Bring it On”), Lou Ferrigno (“The Incredible Hulk”), Scott Porter (“Caprica,” “Friday Night Lights”), Adrianne Curry (“America’s Next Top Model,” “My Fair Brady”), Christopher Knight (“The Brady Bunch,” “My Fair Brady”), Stephen Baldwin (The Usual Suspects, Bio-Dome), Jake Busey (Starship Troopers, The Frighteners) and Ernie Hudson (Ghostbusters).

“I’m looking forward to meeting up with my fans at the 10th Annual Philadelphia Comic Con,” said Marsters. “I think my fans are some of the coolest people I’ve met and I am excited to discuss and celebrate the characters I’ve played with all of them.”

Fans can also meet their favorite comic artists, including Joe Madureira (“Darksiders,” “Uncanny X-Men,” “Battle Chasers”), Ethan Van Sciver (“Green Lantern,” “Superman/Batman”), J.G. Jones (“Final Crisis,” “Wanted,” “Wonder Woman: The Hiketeia”), Michael Golden (“Wolverine: First Class,” “New Exiles”), Mark Texeira (“Moon Knight,” “Ghost Rider”), and Herb Trimpe (“Hulk,” “Iron Man”) and many other local and national artists.

Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in daily costume contests. Event-goers may also try their hand interactive product exhibits by trend-setting brands such as Ford (displaying a new vehicle), THQ (showing a video game) and TBS (screening a new television program); shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at more than 400 dealer booths; and experience the show’s Horror Pavilion dedicated to writers, artists, musicians, and actors well known in that genre.

Sanctioned Tabletop Gaming Tournaments for Warhammer & Warhammer 40k and Trading Card Gaming Tournaments for YuGiOh, Pokemon, World of Warcraft & Magic the Gathering will take place throughout the weekend offering casual and competitive players the opportunity to win valuable prizes and increase their rankings. Additionally, event- goers are invited to bring their own short films to the expo, and enter the NYC Horror Film Festival’s Killer Short Sudden Death Competition. Winners will be inducted into the NYC Horror Film Festival program later this year.

Philadelphia Comic Con is the third stop on Wizard’s nine-city 2010 North American tour. Doors open Fri., June 11 from noon – 8 p.m. Saturday hours are 10 a.m. until 7 p.m., and hours on Sunday are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (all times Eastern). Tickets are available in advance by calling 1-866-882-5860 and online at www.wizardworld.ticketleap.com/philadelphia at up to a 15% savings over tickets purchased at the door. Adult single-day tickets are $25; three-day tickets are $45, and tickets are free for children age ten and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). Discount are available for students and faculty with identification.

Wizard World Anaheim 2010!

On April 16-18, 2010, while C2E2 was going on in Chicago, Gareb Shamus brought his Wizard World show to Anaheim. While I was a bit skeptical at the number of people who would attend this event due to the overwhelming talent going to C2E2, I was genuinely surprised at how well run the show was. There was something for everyone at this show, from shopping, to seeing the myriad of celebrities attending the event, to Artist Alley, where art collectors were able to snag some great art at very affordable prices. Everyone was very approachable, and even the celebrities had a good time, most taking in and enjoying their first comic convention. With the success of this show, I can only hope that Wizard World Anaheim can come by next year to hopefully bring more talent to this great show! Here’s a look at some of the highlights from this show:

And of course, what show would not be complete without booth babes and cosplay characters? Here are some of the best ones I saw:

Chicago Comic Con Tickets On Sale

Tickets are now on sale for Wizard World’s largest and longest running Comic Con with Special Guests William Shatner, Adam West and Julie Newmar at www.wizardworld.ticketleap.com/chicago

Join tens of thousands of fans as they converge at Chicago Comic Con 2010 Wizard World Convention to celebrate the best in pop culture. Chicago Comic Con brings it all – Movies, Comics, Toys, Video Gaming, Games, TV, Anime, Manga, Horror, Wrestling, MMA, Original Art, Collectibles & More! Chicago Comic Con is brought to you by the group who produces the most widely attended Comic Con tour!

Special Guests William Shatner, Adam West and Julie Newmar will meet fans and sign autographs at Chicago Comic Con.

Chicago Comic Con runs Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, August19-22, 2010 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

Show Hours:
Thursday, August 19, 2010 – 5 pm – 9pm
Friday, August 20, 2010 – 12 NOON – 8pm
Saturday, August 21, 2010 – 10am – 7pm
Sunday, August 22, 2010 – 10am – 5pm

Tickets Details:
• All Tickets Gain Entry to Chicago Comic Con 2010 Wizard World Convention & Video Game Expo
• The only way to attend the show on Thursday evening is to purchase a Premier Weekend Ticket! All Advance Ticket Holders get in FIRST all weekend long.
• Important: Bring your printed out e-tickets to the event to gain admittance.
• Save $5 by ordering your ticket in advance.
• Tickets are non-refundable.
• Children 10 and under get in FREE when accompanied by a paid adult
• Credit card will be charged at time of purchase.
• All tickets have a convenience charge at checkout.
• Autograph fees may be required for some guests.
Go here for details about the special Magazine Subscription offer with Bonus Free Ticket to Chicago Comic Con: http://www.wizardworld.com/frtitochcoco.html

See Kirk at Madame Tussauds Hollywood for a Discount

Press Release:

STAR TREK FANS!
Be the first to see William Shatner as Captain James T. Kirk Immortalized in Wax at Madame Tussauds Hollywood!

Print this offer to receive
$8 off tickets*
Be sure to bring your camera!
Join us for Star Trek Weekend,
November 5 -8 to see the Captain Kirk wax figure, the newest addition to the permanent collection.

Spread over three floors, 18 different themed rooms and over 100 figures, Madame Tussauds Hollywood is LA’s newest interactive wax attraction located next door to the world famous Grauman’s Chinese Theatre.
www.MadameTussauds.com/Hollywood

Valid towards a purchase of up to SIX (6) total general child/adult same day admissions. Discount does not apply to special packages, combo tickets or other offers. Not to be combined with any other offer. No cash value. Subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply. Expires 12/31/09. Promo Code: 9067

Continue your Star Trek Experience with STAR TREK THE EXHIBITION, the ultimate experience for fans and first-timers, at Hollywood & Highland now through 12/27/09. Come and Explore the History of the Future!

Over 40 Special Guests Announced for Anaheim Comic Con

Brian Michael Bendis, Alex Maleev, Eliza Dushku and more kick off the hottest convention of 2010!

GET ANAHEIM COMIC CON TICKETS NOW at www.wizardworld.ticketleap.com/anaheim
On April 16-18, 2010, the inaugural Anaheim Comic Con is coming to the Anaheim Convention Center. The Anaheim Comic Con will be a major regional pop culture convention bringing fans the latest information on comics, toys, collectibles and connecting attendees with celebrity guests, artists and industry professionals.

The convention is still a few months away and several comic book superstars are already heading to the Anaheim Comic Con! Leading the way are Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev, the blockbuster creative team behind Marvel’s SPIDER-WOMAN! Additionally, Bernie Wrightson (SWAMP THING), Tim Bradstreet (THE PUNISHER), Steve Niles (30 DAYS OF NIGHT), Charlie Huston (MOON KNIGHT), Phil Jimenez (ASTONISHING X-MEN), Simon Bisley (JUDGE DREDD), Glenn Fabry (PREACHER) and Tom Jane (BAD PLANET) are already confirmed for the show, with dozens of other comic creators to be announced!

Several stars of film and television will also be in attendance, including DOLLHOUSE star and longtime fan favorite, Eliza Dushku! Also onboard for the Anaheim Comic Con are Ted Raimi (XENA, SPIDER-MAN), WWE & TNA star Mick Foley along with three of the most beloved cast members from the 60′s BATMAN TV series: Adam West, Burt Ward and Julie Newmar! Additionally, there are several additional guests that will be announced soon!

“There is a real desire in Southern California for a comic based pop-culture experience, and I feel privileged to get back in touch with our west coast fans in this way. This will truly be an event for families and people of all ages,” said Gareb Shamus, CEO of Wizard Entertainment.

Full Guest list so far:
William Shatner
Kate Mulgrew
Eliza Dushku
Christian Serratos
Brent Spiner
Catherine Bach
John Schneider
Ernie Hudson
Taylor Dayne
Brande Roderick
Jake Busey
Lori Petty
Lucianna Carro
Mick Foley
Bruce Boxleitner
Kevin Sorbo
Levar Burton
Robert Picardo
Jonathan Frakes
John de Lancie
Scott Bakula
Genie Francis
Melissa Gilbert
John Noble
Lorenzo Lamas
Rob Van Dam
Lita
Leonard Nimoy
Lindsay Wagner
Heidi Klum
Garrett Wang
Daniel Logan
Walter Koenig
Traci Scoggins
Michael Dorn
Lofton
Bernie Wrightson
Charlie Huston
Christopher Knight
Adrianne Curry
Alex Maleev
Tim Bradstreet
Tom Jane
Steve Niles

With such an incredible guest line up, the Anaheim Comic Con will easily be one of the top conventions of 2010. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this historic comic con!

For more Anaheim Comic Con guest and programming updates, become a fan of ANAHEIM COMIC CON on Facebook!

The Anaheim Comic Con runs from April 16-18, 2010 at the Anaheim Convention Center. It is a major regional pop culture convention bringing fans the latest information on comics, toys, collectibles and connecting attendees with celebrity guests, artists and industry professionals.
GET ANAHEIM COMIC CON TICKETS NOW at www.wizardworld.ticketleap.com/anaheim

Big Apple Comic Con to Feature Over 250 Celebrities

OVER 500 EXHIBITORS AND MORE THAN 250 CELEBRITIES AND RECORD CROWDS EXPECTED FOR BIG APPLE COMIC CON THIS COMING WEEKEND, OCTOBER 16 – OCTOBER 18 AT PIER 94 (55th Street & 12th Avenue) IN NEW YORK CITY
Cast Members of the Twilight Saga: New Moon, Star Wars and Battlestar Galactica; Pop Icons William Shatner, Adam West, Billy Dee Williams, and Linda Hamilton; Sports Stars Yogi Berra, Ric Flair, Joe Frazier, Pete Rose and Dwight Gooden all participating in the New York City area’s largest consumer pop culture event of 2009
(THE BIG APPLE, October 12, 2009) Over 500 exhibitors from toys and video games to action figures, sports and entertainment will converge on Pier 94 this coming weekend for Big Apple Comic Con, the tri-state area’s largest pop culture festival.

“Whether you are a fan of comic books, movies, television, toys, video games, sports, music or more, there is something here for everyone. This is an affordable weekend of fun for the whole family,” said Big Apple Comic Con Producer Gareb Shamus.

Brands ranging from Hasbro and LEGO to Nintendo, Warner Bros. and THQ are on hand displaying new products and conducting competitions and contests. Additionally, over 250 celebrities from hit movies and TV shows like Batman, Star Wars, The Sopranos, X-Men, The Dukes of Hazzard and The Terminator are on hand along with stars from current hit shows like Battlestar Galactica, American Idol, Survivor, Dollhouse, Warehouse 13, The Real Housewives of New Jersey and Smallville to speak with fans, conduct seminars and sign autographs. Hundreds of comic book illustrators and vendors are also appearing live, and there will be a Halloween costume contest for participants of all ages.

It is anticipated that tens of thousands of people will attend the three day event, which opens Friday at noon and will run until Sunday at five. There are also a number of after hours VIP events featuring movie screenings, meet and greets, as well as musical performances by Grammy Award Winning artists Naughty By Nature (Friday night) and Taylor Dayne (Saturday night).

WHAT: BIG APPLE COMIC CON
WHEN: October 16-18, 2009, FRI-SAT-SUN
WHERE: PIER 94 MANHATTAN (711 12 th Avenue @ 55th Street)

Tickets are on sale now at www.wizardworld.ticketleap.com/bigapple and by phone at 1-877-402-3751. One day Friday and Sunday tickets are being sold in advance for $25 and 3-day passes are available for $45. Get $5 off with code NYC (online only). Saturday tickets are $30. Kids 10 years old and younger are FREE with a paid adult ticket on Sunday only. For a full guest and vendor list and more information on the event go to www.wizardworld.com.

Show hours:
Friday, October 16: 12 noon – 8 pm
Saturday, October 17: 10 am – 7 pm
Sunday, October 18: 10 am – 5 pm

About Wizard Entertainment
Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Wizard Entertainment publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare, and numerous books about pop-culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Gareb produces Big Apple Comic Con at Pier 94 October 16-18, 2009, Anaheim Comic Con at the Anaheim Convention Center, April 16-18, 2010, Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con at the Philadelphia Convention Center June 11-13, 2010, Chicago Comic Con at the Donald E. Stephens (Rosemont) Convention Center, August 12-15, 2010 and Toronto Comic Con, dates TBD.

Disclosure: Big Apple Comic Con is a current advertiser with Convention Scene.

FCBD 2009

Free Comic Book Day is the day when the industry tries to draw in new fans with the lure of free comics, along with the appearances of many comic book creators at a local comic book store. This year, a few stores in Los Angeles and its neighboring cities held some very high profile events, and I went on a 100 mile trek to see what FCBD had in store this year.

First off was Golden Apple in Melrose, Hollywood’s Comic Store to the stars. Although the store brought in a myriad of comic creators such as Marc Andreyko and Kevin Eastman, the star of the day was William Shatner. The line outside went around the block and people continued to trickle in after the event had started.

While the people waited, Mr. Shatner had arrived and got himself ready to sign his FCBD comic!

Mr. Shatner was a consummate professional. He signed about 300 books in about 40 minutes! Warp speed ahead!

After about an hour, Mr. Shatner took a break, and I went along my way to see Tim Sale at Meltdown Comics. Unfortunately, I caught him at the tail end of his FCBD appearance, but did snag a picture of a great commission piece he did while he was there:

A little disappointed, I carried on my little excursion to the next destination: Comic Odyssey in Pasadena, where Philip Tan was there signing and sketching for the fans. There was a line of about 10 people when I showed up, and Philip took the time to sketch for every fan in line. And not only were these simple head sketches, but he was pounding out 3/4 body pieces. It’s amazing to watch an artist go to work and be in a zone where he’s cranking out sketches every 10 minutes.

After getting a sketch from Phillip, I drove out to Westminster, where Comics Unlimited was hosting a signing by comic legend Jim Lee! The line went out the door and around the store:

The signing was supposed to end by 7, but Jim kept cranking out some great sketches. Finally, I drove back to Sunset to go back to Meltdown. They had a gallery showing of 80′s cartoon characters taking on the LA art scene. One of the featured artists was David Finch, who painted a beautiful Strawberry Shortcake. I was extremely exhausted by the end of the day, but the 100 mile trip gave me hundreds of new memories. I can’t wait till next year.

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