Arizona iCon’s First Annual Toy Convention

Another convention comes to Arizona and its name is iCon.  Arizona iCon is a toy and pop culture convention and it features many local toy collectors and dealers.  Many of the collectors and dealers involved in the convention are permanent vendors at “The Collector Marketplace” in Phoenix, Arizona. 

iCon was created to be a convention that was solely based on the love of toys and collectible items.   It was located in Glendale, AZ at the Glendale Civic Center.  The con featured many well known vendors that have graced their presence at several conventions and some other less known ones as well.  It had some great sponsors this year like: Pop Culture Paradise, Toy Anxiety, Drawn to Comics, Gotham City Comics, Arizona Collector’s Marketplace and more.

 Keeping in the tradition of many of the other cons, they also had panels.  A handful of these panels discussed toys and collectibles.  The other panels included titles like: 75 years of Batman with Drawn to Comics, Creating He-Man with Mark Ellis, Creating GI Joe with Dan Klingensmith and Frank Coroneos, GI Joe vs. Transformers Anniversary Spectacular, 30^th Anniversary of Transformers, 30 years of Ninja Turtles, So You Want to Start a Podcast, Meet the AZ Tardis, The Hunt, Ask WhoLock, and 3 Drunk Geeks. 

A few of the most popular charity groups were present at iCon.  The Arizona Avengers, the 501^st, AZ Tardis and Very Awesome Girls Into Nerdy Activities brought their A-Game and brought much excitement for a lot of the con-goers with their awesome displays and their fantastic costumes.  It still excites me every time I see the “Big Blue Box” aka “The Tardis” sitting there for all to see.  I also enjoy chatting with my friends at the Arizona Avengers and the 501^st.  They work so hard on the costumes and do so much that’s good for their community.  I’m honored to know many of them and be friends with several others.

There are some things that do need to be improved for next year’s convention.  When you bought your ticket, they put a stamp on your hand to indicate that you can come and go as you please.  They need to change this and either make wrist bands, or invest in lanyard badges.  Even though the panels were printed in the program, it didn’t seem to be enough notice for the panel, or much in description in the pamphlet on what the panel was all about.  This needs to change and I hope they take these critiques to heart.

With so many toys, collectibles and vendors, you might find yourself broke from all the things to purchase.  All-in-all, I enjoyed myself and I probably spent more money than I should have.  If you’re a toy lover, or a collector, then iCon is the convention for you.

Arizona iCon has come and gone like so many conventions, but this is not the end.  iCon will return next year and it will take all that it has learned from this year and make it even better.  I look forward to seeing what new things are on the horizon for this convention and I hope the readers will check it out next year as well.     

Coverage Submitted By: Jeremy Colwill

Phoenix Comicon 2014

Phoenix Comicon 2014 has come and gone. It seems that I wait all year for this one weekend and suddenly it's here and just as fast it's gone. I've referred to it as the 3.5 longest shortest days of the year. The days whip by being surrounded by amazing talent and in my case, friends..yet, at the end of the day, the physical exhaustion (and my fitbit!) tell me just how long the day actually was. In fact, even on the shortest day, I averaged walking about 4+ miles each day! No wonder I had some sore feet and legs!

Now...on with the good, the bad and the summary!

The Good -

• Phoenix Comicon got it's fire drill out of the way on Thursday. Granted, it wasn't planned, but it made me chuckle hearing that it not only happened again, but also seeing the jokes regarding Throw Back Thursday - PCC fire alarm.
• Expansion - Over the past few years, the convention has grown and had begun to stretch the fabric of space and time..or at least the sections of the convention center that were rented for the event. This year, the good folks in charge made some pretty big changes! Entire sections of street outside the convention center were closed off for various events. Registration was moved over to the South building and I believe that they even held a few panels over there. On top of that, there were still things happening in the North and West buildings as well as the Hyatt and the Sheraton. It meant for more walking but helped a lot with crowd control issues.
• The App! - I was super excited when I heard through the grapevine that there was a conquest app for this year. I've loved the conquest in the past, but being able to have it on my phone and not print things out was fantastic. I did hear some complaints about it not working, but it did for me and was really handy.
• Scheduling - I am a huge fan in the fact that PCC places a 30 minute gap between all of their panels. This allows for some movement time. Also, if you look at their schedule within the programming guide, it's laid out in categories, so if you're only interested in anime,  you look at that column. If you're interested in comics, you look there. It saved me a ton of time when I was sleepily trying to decide which panels to attend the following day.
• Friends - For me, this convention has become a where's waldo adventure of trying to find where various friends and folks that I enjoy are located. It can be frustrating, but when I do find them, there are hugs and laughs and lots of catching up being done. 
• Costumes - Holy canole do people come out with the most amazing things! I could spend hours just looking at all of the amazing costumes that people come up with. I don't always recognize the characters but I appreciate the time, effort and passion that goes into making one of them. Not to mention the dedication of wearing some of them in 108 degree temperatures!
• Variety - I love that this show covers anime, steampunk (Tea dueling, anyone?), comics and writing. There's a bit of everything for everyone. I do hope though that they never forget that they're a comicon and the core of that is comics. Otherwise, it will be time to rebrand as an entertainment expo which will make me horribly sad.
• Great attendees - This year I only signed a few autographs (yes, I grin ear to ear over that) and I
  was asked when I'm going to do a panel regarding reviewing and what it takes to be a good reviewer. I told them that all I'm waiting for is an invitation. Seriously, I am. ;)  This show has some of the best attendees..they're fun, they love their fandoms and even on the hottest days, I've never encountered someone who didn't have a smile in them.

One of Angelwolf's fans!
My first autograph for the show.

The Bad  - 

• Expansion - While it does help with crowd control, it does mean for a lot of extra walking and for those of us unfamiliar with the area, it also sometimes means us getting completely lost. Thank goodness for the bike cab gentleman who sent me in the right direction after I'd walked a block in the wrong!
• The App! - I heard quite a few complaints this year that the app wasn't working for them. Like I said above, I didn't have this problem but if others did, it's a problem. What I would love to see for next year is the ability to set alarms on the app that go off before a scheduled event. I lose track of time and this would help me to actually get to the things that I want to be at. Perhaps an option to connect your Google Calendar might help with this. 
• Exhibitor Floor - Everyone that knows me knows that this is my favorite place to be. However, this year, it left a lot of people confused. I had a tough time finding people and I heard more than one complaint that the numbering system was confusing this year. I more than once commented that I needed a con floor gps where I could plug in a booth number and it would guide me to where I needed to go.
• Exhibitors - From what I heard, there was a wait list to get a table this year. I'd like to congratulate the convention for getting to a popularity level where that happens. The problem with this? You need to start being selective in who you allow to have a table. It can't just be anyone who is willing to pay for one. This year, I saw not one but two ladies selling Scentsy. While they sell great products, there are more appropriate venues for them to sell their wares. I would have rather have seen a great table selling custom costume pieces or figurines/statues. Yes, even geeks and nerds like their houses to smell nice, but I can get Scentsy-like products just about anywhere. I live in the middle of nowhere, with no local comic book store...so conventions are my place to buy up all my geek goodies.
• Safety - Last year, the bag check system was smooth as can be. This year, it was hodgepodge and random. Over the course of the weekend, I had my bag checked once. I'll be honest and say that it annoyed me to a minor extent. With a media badge, I feel as if I've been vetted and shouldn't have to do this. That being said, I'd rather they search everyone if it keeps everyone safe. 
• 
  
• Safety Part 2 - Every single weapon like item that comes through the door must be checked and tagged. This is awesome. What isn't so awesome is the fact that you could buy real weapons on the convention floor. I'm not talking about the amazing light sabers but that at least one place was selling knives. While I personally love ornamental knives and blades, it doesn't make much sense to put a ziptie on an obvious toy gun, just to have that same person go downstairs and buy a very real knife.
• 
  

• 

  Loved these guys and their metal parrot!

• Communication - 
• Badges/Media - I had to go to 3 different locations because nobody had told me where mine would be located. I also gave directions to no less than a dozen people over the course of the weekend because they didn't know. On the media side, I was also very frustrated because I was never given the opportunity to sign up for interviews. I received my email saying my badge had been approved and that another email would be coming but I never received any further communication. I also keep hearing rumors that there's a press/media room, but I'm never told where it's located.
• Geek Prom - Every year I comment that the convention does little to promote this event. It disappoints me since all proceeds go to a very awesome charity. This year was worse than others because not only did they change the location of the event, they also changed the day that it's held on. I lost track of how many people didn't realize it and then missed the event because of it.
• The App - Most of us found out about this from folks who were actually part of the convention staff. I would have loved to have seen a press release or something on the site about this.
• Parties - One of the things that is very loved about this particular show is that there have always been after parties for each night of the convention. However, for whatever reason, every single of the 3 well known parties was moved to the same day. This just doesn't work. First of all, every single party has a different theme and for those of us who like to dress up, 3 costumes in one evening is just too much. On top of that, holding Geek Prom on Friday night was rough. I quite literally did not get out of there and into my bed until about 3am...followed by Saturday, which is always an exhausting con day. If I had a vote, I'd suggest rearranging the parties: Party Like a Time Lord (Thursday night), Captain's Cantina (Friday night) and Geek Prom (Saturday night). Let everyone enjoy their fandoms without running themselves into the ground.
• Badge Art - I loved the badge art this year (yay for my Jeff Pina badge!), but one of the things that I used to brag about when it came to this show was the badge art contest. It gave unknown artists a chance to show off what they can do. It gave the fans a way to feel involved in the con planning. I missed it this year and I know that others did too.

Are you my mummy?

The Summary -
I know that my list of bad looks pretty darn long this year, but honestly, this is still one of my favorite events every single year. I love the guest lists, the panels and the chance to visit with friends. I love that during the day I have absolutely no excuse to say I'm bored. There is always something going on and since escalators are the easiest way to get up and down, I get to work on my fear of the darn things. I love that the convention really seems to care about the fans and does its best to bring in the best. I won't hesitate to still recommend this show to anyone who is looking to check one out. With an attendance of 77,818 this year combined with someone new at the helm, growing pains are to be expected. I've already been told that next year they'll be opening up even more convention center space, so I'm looking forward to another year of awesome! Phoenix Comicon 2015, I'm already looking forward to walking your halls, listening to your panels, interviewing your guests and just having an amazing time.

To check out our full Phoenix Comicon Photo Gallery, check out our Facebook Fan Page!

Adam Beechen, Paige Braddock, Joe Corroney, Phil Hester, Brian and Kristy Miller, Todd Nauck, Brian Pulido and Andy Runton to Join PHXCC 2014

Phoenix Comicon is proud to announce that comic book artists Adam Beechen, Paige Braddock, Joe Corroney, Phil Hester, Brian and Kristy Miller, Todd Nauck, Brian Pulido and Andy Runton will be attending Comicon 2014.

“At Phoenix Comicon, we can never have enough comics guests and we are very excited about the large number that will be here for 2014,” says Convention Director Matt Sorberg.

Adam Beechen is an American comic book writer best known for writing Countdown to Adventure.

Beechen has written scripts for various cartoons, such as Teen Titans, Rugrats, The Batman and Pink Panther and Pals. For comics, Beechen has wrote several Rugrats and Rocket Power comic strips for Nickelodeon Magazine and scripts for Teen Titans Go! And Justice League Unlimited for DC Comics.

Paige Braddock is a comic book artist and creator best known for the long-standing comic, “Jane's World.” In 2006, “Jane’s World” received an Eisner Award nomination for best humor book. Now distributed by Universal Press Syndicate, daily installments of “Jane’s World” appear on GoComics website. There are currently 10 volumes of “Jane’s World” in print. Paige also co-created the graphic novel series The Martian Confederacy. Currently, Braddock is the Creative Director at Charles M. Schulz Creative Associates.

Joe Corroney is an illustrator who is best known for providing Lucasfilm Ltd. With official Star Wars artwork for related books, games, trading cards and magazines since 1996. He has also developed his creator owned comic book series, Death Avenger. Currently, he is creating new Star Wars artwork for Lucasfilm and Star Wars Insider.

Phil Hester is an American comic book artist, penciller and writer best known his work on The Wretch and Green Arrow. His pencilling credits also include Swamp Thing, Brave New World, Flinch, Ultimate Marvel Team-Up, Clerks: The Lost Scene and Aliens: Purge. For his work on The Wretch, Hester was nominated for an Eisner Award for Best New Series in 1997. Hester is currently writing the new adventures of Golden Age hero The Black Terror.

Brian and Kristy Miller are best known for their work on Hi-Fi Color for Comics and Master Digital Color. Brian is a comic book colorist, founder of Hi-Fi colour design. Kristy is the VP of Development at Hi-Fi colour design.  Both Brian and Kristy are co-authors of Hi-Fi Color for Comics and Master Digital Color from Impact Books.

Todd Nauck is an American comic book artist and writer best known for his work on Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, Young Justice and his own creation, Wildguard. While working for DC Comics, Nauck helped launch the Young Justice series and drew 53 issues of the 55 issue run of the series. Nauck's art was featured in the eighth season finale of the reality television show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition in 2011.

Brian Pulido is a creator, writer and producer of comic books and films and is best known for his work on comics Lady Death and A Nightmare on Elm Street. For his film work, Pulido created, produced and wrote the story for ADV Films' animated feature, Lady Death: The Movie. He wrote, produced and directed the short horror film, There's Something Out There. He also wrote and directed the film The Graves, which was released in 2009. His current comics work for Texas Chain Saw Massacre was nominated as Best Screen-to-Comic Adaptation on the TV Scream Awards from Avatar Press.

Andy Runton is the creator of the graphic novel series, Owly. First published in 2005, the reflection on wildlife series, Owly would helo Runton win the Ignatz Award for Promising New Tablet, also in 2005. His work was also nominated for "Best Publication for a Younger Audience" in Esiner Awards in 2006, which he would win.

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its twelfth year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 65,000 attendees to its June 5-8, 2014 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com. 

Patrick Rothfuss to Join PHXCC 2014

Phoenix Comicon is proud to announce that author Patrick Rothfuss will be attending Comicon 2014.

Patrick Rothfuss is an American fantasy writer best known for the series The Kingkiller Chronicle.

Marketing Director Jillian Squires says that, “We are very please to welcome Patrick Rothfuss and his fans to Phoenix Comicon 2014.”

In 2007, Rothfuss published The Name of the Wind, which is the first part of the projected three-part The Kingkiller Chronicle series. The second part of the series,The Wise Man's Fear was published in 2011. The Name of the Wind was name one of the "Best Books of the Year" for Science Fiction/Fantasy/Horror in 2007 by Publishers Weekly. Rothfuss has also been a #1 The New York Times Best Seller as well.

In addition to writing, Rothfuss has also been a college lecturer at his alma mater, the Unviversity of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. The third part of The Kingkiller Chronicle, The Doors of Stone is currently in progress now.

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its twelfth year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 65,000 attendees to its June 5-8, 2014 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com. 

Bruce Campbell to Join PHXCC 2014

Phoenix Comicon is proud to announce that actor Bruce Campbell will be attending Comicon 2014. 

Bruce Campbell is an American actor who is best known for his character of Ash Williams in the cult horror Evil Dead series of movies.

“We are very excited to announce our first guest for Phoenix Comicon 2014 as Bruce Campbell,” says Convention Director Matt Soberg.

Campbell burst onto the scene in 1981's The Evil Dead, in which he is part of a group of college kids staying at a remote cabin in the woods when demonic shenanigans begin to unfold. Despite its low budget, the film went on to become one of the the most iconic cult horror movies and help to launch the careers of both Campbell, and his friend and director, Sam Raimi. Campbell would reprise the role of Ash  for sequels, Evil Dead 2 (1987) and Army of Darkness (1992).

In addition to the Evil Dead series of movies, Campbell has also had roles in major studio movies Congo (1995) and Escape From L.A. (1996). He also co-starred on the television series Burn Notice as Sam Axe, which aired from 2007-2013.

Campbell is also an accomplished voice actor, has dabbled in directing and his 2002 autobiography, If Chins Could Kill: Confessions of a B Movie Actor  became a New York Times Best Seller. He will reprise his famous Ash Williams character for the upcoming Army of Darkness 2 movie.

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its twelfth year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 65,000 attendees to its June 5-8, 2014 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com.

Valiant Gets Fired Up For Phoenix Comicon 2013!

This weekend, Valiant is hitting the road for Phoenix Comicon 2013 – the signature pop culture experience of the Southwest!

 

From Thursday, May 23rd to Sunday, May 26th at the Phoenix Convention Center, visit Valiant at booth #652 for a weekend packed with signings, panels, and exclusive giveaways! 

 

Stop by for a full selection of Valiant comics, trade paperbacks, hardcovers and merchandise – including convention-exclusive, double-sided Shadowman #1/Harbinger Wars #1 Sketch Flipbooks! And get an advance look at the summer's biggest releases with the Valiant Summer 2013 Preview Edition – a FREE convention-only comic book, featuring a look inside Quantum and Woody #1 by James Asmus and Tom Fowler and an extended preview of Harbinger Wars #1, the debut issue of Valiant’s first crossover event. And look for signings by Harbinger Wars creators Joshua Dysart and Clayton Henry throughout the weekend!

 

Then, get the inside track on the Summer of Valiant 2013 on Friday, May 24th at 1:30 pm in room 125B at the Valiant 2013: Harbinger Wars and Beyond panel presentation, featuring special guests Joshua Dysart (Harbinger Wars, Harbinger), Clayton Henry (Harbinger Wars, Archer & Armstrong), Christos Gage (Bloodshot and H.A.R.D. Corps) and Chief Creative Officer Dinesh Shamdasani! Find out everything you need to know about the next year of the Valiant Universe right here, directly from a panel of Valiant insiders!

 

For more information, visit PhoenixComicon.com or ValiantUniverse.com.

 

We'll see you in Phoenix!

Boom! Studios Debuts at Phoenix Comicon

Los Angeles, CA -  BOOM! Studios is thrilled to be exhibiting for the first time at PHOENIX COMICON taking place Memorial Day weekend beginning Thursday, May 23rd through Sunday, March 26th. Headlining BOOM! Studios’ exciting line up of guests and exclusive variant covers is 2 Guns creator Steven Grant (PUNISHER, 3 GUNS).

BOOM! Studios will bringing four exclusive variant covers to Phoenix Comicon, which will be available only at the BOOM! Studios booth (#559). From the KaBOOM! imprint, copies of ADVENTURE TIME ANNUAL #1 and REGULAR SHOW #1 both with southwest-themed covers by Meredith McClaren (HINGES) will be available for purchase. Additionally, BOOM! Studios is pleased to partner with local retailer Jesse James Comics on two limited edition variants, SUICIDE RISK #1 with a cover by Joëlle Jones (HELHEIM) and CLIVE BARKER’S NEXT TESTAMENT #1 with a cover by series artist Haemi Jang (HELLRAISER: THE ROAD BELOW).

BOOM! Studios is thrilled to host Steven Grant (2 GUNS) along with Eric Esquivel (FREELANCERS), and Caleb Monroe (STEED AND MRS PEEL, ICE AGE) at the BOOM!/KaBOOM! booth (booth # 559) all weekend long. Grace Randolph (GRACE RANDOLPH’S SUPURBIA) will also be at our booth on Saturday and Sunday.

Travis Hill (ADVENTURE TIME, CARS) will also be at the BOOM!/KaBOOM! booth (booth #559) sketching GET-A -SKETCH covers all weekend long! Make sure to stop by for your chance to pick up the hottest comics, trades and variant covers including hit brands like ADVENTURE TIME, PEANUTS, GARFIELD, BRAVEST WARRIORS, PLANET OF THE APES, HELLRAISER, and many, many more!

BOOM! Studios is also a proud sponsor of the Bleeding Cool Fan Awards, to be presented at Phoenix Comicon on Friday at 6PM in Room 132. Attendees will receive a free ADVENTURE TIME #16 limited edition variant cover for free. The exclusive Adventure Time #16 variant is ONLY available by attending the Bleeding Cool Fan Awards. The Fan Awards are rated for mature audiences.

Phoenix Comic Con will take place at the Phoenix Convention Center located at 100 N 3rd St. Phoenix, AZ 85004.  On Thursday the 23rd, the shows hours are from 4pm-9pm, on Friday the 24th, the hours are from 10am-7pm, on Saturday the 25th, the hours are from 10am-10pm and on Sunday the 26st, the hours are from 10am-5pm. If you would like more information about the show, visit the official website: http://phoenixcomicon.com

 

About BOOM! Studios

Founded by Ross Richie in 2005, Diamond Gem Award-winning "Best Publisher" BOOM! Studios (boom-studios.com) generates a constellation of best-selling Eisner and Harvey Award-winning original and licensed comic books and graphic novels with the industry's top talent. BOOM! Studios is the home of Mike Carey's SUICIDE RISK, Clive Barker’s NEXT TESTAMENT and HELLRAISER, Paul Jenkins and Humberto Ramos' FAIRY QUEST, PLANET OF THE APES, Max Bemis' POLARITY and Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE. Steven Grant's graphic novel 2 GUNS will be released as a feature film from Universal Pictures August 2nd, starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. BOOM!'s all-ages imprint KaBOOM! publishes Charles Schulz' PEANUTS, Jim Davis’ GARFIELD, Cartoon Network's ADVENTURE TIME and REGULAR SHOW, Mike Kunkel's HEROBEAR AND THE KID and Roger Langridge’s Eisner Award-winning SNARKED.

     

Pass Me A Slice

If you're familiar with burlesque and happen to live in the southwest you may have heard of a performer by the name of Pisa Cake. Let me tell you, she's the whole f#@$ing cake. Recently, I had a chance to sit down with her, on her birthday no less, and talk about her performance acts, including a Princess Peach act she's been asked to perform at the upcoming Phoenix Comic Con this May. We decided to meet up at the Chrystal Rhinestone Boutique near downtown Tucson where most of the local dancers come to buy their bling. Taking in the luxurious furniture and gourmet coffee nook, I can see why they stay to chat long after a purchase has been made.

When Pisa comes in she's already wearing the wig, which she laughingly agreed doesn't convert well in reality. Her lips are bubblegum pink and her energy is equally bubbly. I expected the wig. I wasn't expecting the full costume or her willingness to put it on. Never let it be said a burlesque dancer did anything half way.

Geek-o-Rama: So how did you get into burlesque?
Pisa Cake:  There are several points it could be argued that happened. I officially began performing on stage in October 2011... I've been performing 2.5 years. Where I debuted at ,BurlyCon, they have things called peer reviews. I'd never actually performed for an audience but I had an act put together from when I was working with Black Cherry down here. It was never staged and I used that  as an opportunity to show people and get feedback from other performers. You're performing for other performers.

I've actually been studying burlesque in some capacity for about six years, I saw my first show when I was 18 at Ain't No Body's Bizness and I actually saw one of the Black Cherry's there. I thought to myself 'this is the most amazing thing I've ever seen.' But, of course, I was 18 and it's really difficult to get gigs when you can't even get in the bar.

G-o-R: So how did you go from seeing your first performance to stepping on stage for the first time?
PC: Well, it was a rocky sort of road. The first time I actually did it, my first time was with a dance class. It was a class being taught by Fanny [the headmistress of Tucson's only burlesque school]. It was only a class at the time and their first time doing any of this. My boyfriend saw an ad on Myspace, and said 'hey this is right up your alley, you should do this.' I'm very thankful that he's been 100% supportive through everything and he's actually the reason I got into it because without him I wouldn't have known about the dance class and the opportunity that eventually led me where I am today. But there was a huge break from when I was taking classes and learning from Black Cherry and when I actually started performing.

GoR: What would you be doing if you were not doing burlesque? I assume you have a day job?
PC: I do and it's like working two full time jobs. I go to my nine to five office job, I'm a software engineer, come home and do promotions, rhinestone things, and rehearse and then go to bed at midnight if I'm lucky. It got to a point a while back where it was too much, I'm actually on a break right now and I'm literally not doing anything till the comic-con show. This is the only thing I'm doing that's Pisa Cake related.

GoR:  So what's going on with the Princess Peach Act? How did that birth its way into existence?
PC: I've really had a thing for Mario pretty much my whole life. I always played it as a kid and my mom was so...odd. She'd make people watch me play it. She thought it was cool that I was really good at it. It's the only game I've ever played. I'm not really a gamer, but I've played every single Mario except for Mario 64 which I despise.

GoR: Aww, you're breaking nerdy hearts everywhere.
PC: I know I know, I'm just a purist that way. I love Mario, I love the 2D run across the screen, the stuff in Mario 64... I threw the controller at the screen. But for the con, I originally wanted to do a Ghostbusters act which has been in the back of my mind for a very long time with the full on figuring out how to make a power pack and there were visions of having silly string come out of the guns so we could cross streams. All kinds of crazy stuff, turns out Provocatease up in Phoenix did their Ghostbuster act last year with the entire troop. You can't step on toes that way so then I thought now what the F@*k am I going to do? So I started to think what other nerdy characters are there and Princess Peach occurred to me. I thought oh my god I can do this to Mario music and that song from the Lost in Translation movie by Peaches! It transitions from the Mario music to that and you get to see a whole other side to Princess Peach. I have a Yoshi and I carry him up on stage with me, he sits in a chair watching me until the dirty music comes on and then I turn him around.
           

I really wanted to do a Geekesque act, a Nerdlesque act. It's getting more and more popular and I want to have one that I can pull out of my back pocket so I'm ready. Plus, we were going to the comic-con anyway so I said, of course I want to perform. Let's do it, I get to walk around as Peach and take pictures as Peach, it'll be awesome.

GoR: So did they contact you or did you take your act to them?
PC: I was on a list of performers from Talk Nerdy to Me from last year so when I saw the announcement I had to audition. I wasn't asked. A couple other Tucson performers are going up with me. Nikki Riot is doing a Link act from Legend of Zelda, Olivia Twisted has her Darth Vader act, and Wanda Pout is also doing an act but I don't know the name of it. We have a good Tucson representation.

GoR: So from little Super Girls to other busty burlesque babes what do you want them to take away from your performance?
PC: I want them to see a woman who has accepted her body, embraces it, and derives pleasure and happiness from sharing it with others. It's a whole other level of self acceptance when you accept your body and don't try to change it- to be willing to show it to other people. It's a very liberating and validating experience, so when you see people enjoying it makes it even better.

GoR: Last and most important question, how can we find you at PCC?
PC:  There will be a Nerdlesque panel, I'm not actually on it but a lot of my friends are. The Talk Nerdy to Me show itself is on the Friday night May 24th. I believe the show is at 9pm and we have a little competition in Wil Wheaton doing a panel at roughly the same time, which I am very sad I cannot go to. I'm not sure if we'll be doing tabling yet. I'll be around, I'm also cosplaying as Me-Mow from Adventure Time; an evil cat who likes to poison people.

PHXCC Looking for Information Desk Volunteers for 2013

Phoenix Comicon is still looking for some great Information Desk volunteers for our 2013 event.

“We value all of our volunteers and working at the Information Desk is a great way to interact with our attendees and to learn a lot about the convention that you wouldn't know otherwise,” says Convention Director Matt Sorberg.

As a volunteer for the Info Desk staff, you will be:

ñ  Working shifts at the Info Desk during the convention to answer attendee questions with accurate information.

ñ  Assist with answering phones and emails during and before the convention.

ñ  Will need to attend training sessions and meetings to be prepared for the event.

We are looking for team players that like to work with people. Customer Service experience preferred but not required.

For more information, contact: dawn.crawford@phoenixcomicon.com.

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its eleventh year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees to its May 23-26, 2013 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com.

Phoenix Comicon Brings the Comics!

Phoenix Comicon is proud to announce Colleen Doran, Katie Cook, Annie Nocenti, Kevin Maquire, Mark Morales, Mark Greenawalt, Natali Sanders, Jolene Houser, Jenevieve Broomall, Michael Macropoulos, Scott Godlewski, Jim Hanna, and Marat Mychaels will be joining us for 2013.

“Our line up just gets more and more awesome. I can't believe all the amazing talent from across the industry we have coming this year.” Marketing Director Jillian Squires

Colleen Doran is an illustrator who has worked for Lucas film, The Walt Disney Company, Marvel Comics, Image Comics, DC Comics, and many more. Her graphic novel series A Distant Soil,  was listed among the 101 best graphic novels of all time, and has tens of thousands of readers as a webcomic. A Distant Soil has recently returned to Image Comics, with a final chapter run, and new, digitally restored editions of the trade paperback collections.

Annie Nocenti is a former editor for Marvel Comics. In the late 80's Nocenti took over Daredevil  as the writer from 1987 to 1991. She went on to write for many other Marvel titles and the Miniseries Kid Eternity.  Nocenti left the industry in the late 90's to pursue journalism but returned last year and took over as writer for Green Arrow.

Kevin Maquire is an artist known for his working on the Justice League, Defenders, Batman Cofidential, X-men, and many many more.

Mark Morales is a Inker who worked on Marvel Comics such as Secrect Invasion, Siege and Thor.

Mark Greenawalt is best known for his live bodypainting exhibitions at galleries, conventions, and even the prestigious Playboy Mansion. He has lectured on the art of bodypainting in Europe, Asia, and throughout North America and he currently lives  in Phoenix.

Natali Sanders entered the comic world after attending last year’s Phoenix Comic Con. Her first cover was with BDI (Big Dog Ink) and since then she has drawn covers for Penny for Your Soul, The Legend of Oz the Wicked West, and the new series Ursa Minor.

Jolene Houser got her start in Comics industry with Dusk Comics in 2008. Drawing a few short stories in their flagship book "Dusk". She has  been working in the industry doing conventions and local events since then. She is a contributor in the first volume of IDW's Womanthology.

Jenevieve Broomall is a cover illustrator and character designer whose work has appeared in Critter and Joan of Arc From the ashes.

Cartoonist, artist and illustrator Michael Macropoulos is the creator of Spookgirl.

Scott Godlewski is co-creator of the action anthology Mysterious Adventure Magazine and a freelance illustrator, having most recently been published in Dracula: The Company of Monstersfor BOOM! Studios.

Jim Hanna is an Artist/Writer based in Mesa, Arizona. He has provided art for Arcana Studio, Upper Deck, Red 5 Comics, Cryptozoic Entertainment and Marvel/The Hero Initiative. Jim’s newest project is the creator-owned title, Jack Rabbit, part of Contraband Comics’ initial wave of titles.

Marat Mychaels has worked at Marvel Comics on titles such as X-Force:Shatterstar and Deadpool Corp, and a number of DC 52 titles including Hawk and Dove and Grifter. He currently resides in Brea, CA where he freelances as a graphic designer and comicbook illustrator. Marat is currently working on his creator owned projects Blindside and Notti & Nyce published by Contraband Comics.

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its eleventh year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees to its May 23-26, 2013 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com.

The Indigenous Narrative Collective joins Phoenix Comicon 2013

Phoenix Comicon is proud to announce the Indigenous Narrative Collective will be joining us for 2013.

The Indigenous Narrative Collective is a group of Native American comic book writers, artists, designers, and creators dedicated to the creation of native American superheros and comic books. Guests representing the Indigenous Narrative Collective will be  Ryan Huna, Theo Tso, Jacques La Grange, Marty Two Bulls, Arigon Starr and Janet Miner.

Ryan Huna is a member of the Colorado River Indian Tribes in Parker, AZ. He attended the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, NM and received his BFA from the University of Arizona in Tucson. In 1996, Ryan illustrated “Tribal Force” which was the first mainstream comic book created by both a writer and illustrator that were Native American. 

Theo Tso born and raised on a tiny thirteen-acre parcel in Nevada. His credits include “Masked Men” and Phil Yea’s “Winged Tiger.” Tso has also served his community as a Tribal Council member, while raising his family. His character “Captain Paiute” will soon be a full-length comic series.  

Jacques La Grange is a member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe and is the creator/artist of “Shadow Wolf.”

Marty Two Bulls Sr. is an Oglala Lakota from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Spanning a twenty-nine year career Marty has worked in the commercial design sector in television, print technologies, daily newspapers and new media.

Arigon Starr is a multi-talented and multi-award winning musician, actor, playwright and artist based in Los Angeles. She wrote, penciled, inked and colored  the webcomic  Super Indian.

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its eleventh year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees to its May 23-26, 2013 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com. 

Suzanne Young and Jon S. Lewis Join Phoenix Comicon 2013

Phoneix Comicon is proud to announce authors Suzanne Young and Jon S. Lewis will be joining   2013.

Suzanne Young is the author of  A Need So Beautiful, A Want So Wicked, and The Program. She currently lives in Tempe, Arizona, where she drafts novels on restaurant napkins while eating chimichangas. When not writing, Suzanne is a high school English teacher obsessed with books. Young with only be  attending PHXCC Saturday and Sunday.

Jon S. Lewis is the author of the CHAOS with Thomas Nelson. His new book, Domintion comes out in April 2013. Lewis is currently working on a variety of projects that include feature films, comic books, graphic novels, animated series, and a variety of philanthropic endeavors.

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its eleventh year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees to its May 23-26, 2013 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com.

Additional Babylon 5 cast members Join PHXCC 2013

You spoke, We heard, Here they are!

Phoenix Comicon is proud to welcome Peter Jurasik, Robin Atkin Downes, Jason Carter, Andrea Thompson, and Tracy Scoggins to Phoenix Comicon 2013.

“The Babylon 5 fans were very clear with us. They wanted more and here they are!” Convention Director Matt Sorberg

This is in addition to the previously announced guests including show creator J. Michael Straczynski, actors Walter Koenig, Jerry Doyle, Stephen Furst, Pat Tallman, Claudia Christian, Bill Mumy, Bruce Boxleitner, Julie Caitlin Brown, and Mira Furlan! 

Babylon 5 ran for five seasons and includes six made for TV movies. It won multiple awards including: an Emmy for Special Visual Effects and two Hugo awards for Best Dramatic Presentation. Known for being groundbreaking, it was the first TV show to use CGI effects.

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its eleventh year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees to its May 23-26, 2013 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix. 

Phoenix Comicon : The Talent Just Keeps Coming!

Eric Mengel, Jason Gonzo, Jeff Pina, Michael Kessler,   Radi Lewis, Spencer Brinkerhoff, Val Hochberg, Tom Hodges, Mike Norton, Ming Doyle, Jonathan Glapion, and Andy Runton Join PHXCC 2013

Phoenix Comicon is proud to announce Eric Mengel, Jason Gonzo, Jeff Pina, Michael Kessler,   Radi Lewis, Spencer Brinkerhoff, Val Hochberg, Tom Hodges, Mike Norton, Ming Doyle, Jonathan Glapion, and Andy Runton will be attending Phoenix Comicon 2013.

Eric Mengel is the writer/artist/publisher of OCHO. OCHO is an alien missionary sent to make Earth a better place. Eric and OCHO have been staples of the Arizona comic book scene since 1995. OCHO is Eric's life's work with regard to comics and has dedicated himself to making OCHO the best comic book he can.  

Jason Gonzo is a Chicano artist who currently resides in Mesa, AZ. Gonzo worked in-house as the Senior Art Director for McFarlane Toys/Todd McFarlane Productions. After having worked his way to Creative Director for an advertising agency, Gonzo left to freelance full-time and shift his focus primarily to art, illustration and completing his Comic Book project - La Mano del Destino.

Jeff Pina launched his first comicbook Dr. Oblivion's guide to Teenage Dating in late 2005 and has been making comics since. Jeff does the art chores on the weekly web comic Drunk-Robot with collaborator Brian Powell. He also has two other self-published series Imaginatives and Monkey in Space.

Michael Kessler is the owner and writer for Bleating Goat Comics out of Phoenix, AZ. Founded in 2010, Bleating Goat Comics has published three titles to date. In 2013 Bleating Goat Comics will unveil its newest title Unearthed, an epic global exodus story with an international ensemble cast.

Radi Lewis is making his return to the Phoenix Comicon and he’s bringing the 3rd installment of his hit series TechWatch right along with him. This indie writer currently has a title that is distributed through Diamond Comics; he recently finished a comic for Department of Public Works & Transportation in Arlington TX; and is currently working on a mobile video game.

Spencer Brinkerhoff debuted his art work in 2008 at the Star Wars Celebration in Japan and the San Diego Comic Con, where his animated short was a finalist in the Star Wars Fan movie challenge. He's also created sketch cards for Lord of the Rings, Marvel, Indiana Jones and The Clone Wars.

Val Hochberg is the artist and writer of the popular webcomic series Mystery  Babylon. The extreme post-apocalyptic story features Kick Girl, a very unhappy demon, who is forced to travel with the happy-go-lucky priest, Zero.

Tom Hodges is well known for his work on Star Wars comics, but in 2012, Tom provided the artwork for a 40 page Graphic Novel/Digital Comic/iBook to accompany the 5.1 surround sound release of RUSH's landmark album, "2112". 2013 will see Tom's long awaited return to his Hero MIDKNIGHT (Red 5 Comics)

Mike Norton is an artist and writer.  Norton worked as a freelancer for several years before launching his own web comic Battlepug in 2011. His recent works includes the  the critically acclaimed series, revival.

Ming Doyle is a freelance illustrator and comic book artist known for her work on Women of Marvel's Girl Comics and the comic series Mara.

Jonathan Glapion is an inker for DC and works on Batman, Final Crisis Revelations and Outsiders.

Andy Runton is the creator of the Owly graphic novel series and Owly and Wormy books. Owly  an award winning children's graphic novel that centers around the adventures of an owl. 

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its eleventh year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees to its May 23-26, 2013 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com.

Phoenix Comicon - The Guests Never End!

Phoenix Comicon is proud to announce Steve Rude, Dave Beaty, Mike DeBalfo, Shannon Eric Denton, Eric M.Esquivel, Tony Parker, Alfred Trujillo, Andy Bohn, Ben Glendenning, Brian Augustyn, Daniel Bradford, and Denny Riccelli will be joining us for 2013.

“ We certainly are not holding out on Comic Book guests this year. We have a ton of fantastic and talented people on hand for 2013.”  Convention director Matt Solberg

Steve Rude is the co-creator of the groundbreaking Nexus comic series. Throughout his career he has won multiple awards including the Kirby award for best artist and many Eisner's for artistic achievement.

Comic artist, wirter and graphic designer Dave Beaty, who's worked with BOOM Studios, Marvel and DC among others. He has produced numerous award winning illustrations.

Mike Debalfo began his career by illustrating covers for Zenescope entertainment in 2009.  Debalfo continued drawing  overs for the companies most popular series including Grimm Fairy tales, Wounderland,and  Grimms Myths & legends. In 2012, he began working with Aspen Comics on Soulfire volume four.

Shannon Eric Denton is writer producer and artist who has worked with Cartoon Network, Warner Bros., NBC, Disney, Sony, Marvel Entertainment, Paramount, CBS,  DC Comics and many many more. Denton has also worked in the games industry on titles such as God of War  and Neo-Pets.

Comic book writer and journalist Eric M. Esquivel, has contributed to Boom! Studios, Bleeding Cool, Moonstone Books and many more.

Illustrator and storyteller Tony Parker, who works with Boom! Studios, Dark Horse Comics, DC, and most recently Aspen Comics. Other properties he's worked on include the HERO Initiative covers, Warhammer Fantasy and Warhammer 40K, Elephantmen, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Conan, Godzilla, Starship Troopers, and a myriad of pen and paper role playing games.

Comic book artist Alfred Trujillo has worked professionally in the omics industry since 2010. Zenescope, Big Dog Ink, Chameleon and Moonstone were the beginning. In 2012, Alfred gave up life behind a corporate desk and began his own company 183 DEGREE STUDIO writing and drawing his first creator owned book PROJECT: SHADOWS.

Andy Bohn has been a local creator since Phoenix Comicon 2010. In that time he focuses on creating, writing, and illustrating his own comic story, Elvatron Chronicles. Andy has also worked on various books such as Unite and Take Over: Stories Inspired by Songs of The Smiths, Mark of the Pterren and more.

Artist and writer Ben Glendenning has created SuperWorld, R.I.F.T. And more recently Tin Star Tex. Glendenning also created the series Skulljammer.

Daniel Bradford is a comic artist and co-creator of Robot 13, KING!, and disappointing monsters.

Comic book editor, writer, and creator of The Comic Book Insider, Bryan Augustyn, known  as an editor for DC comics. He work on  many of the most popular series including Batman, Flash, Justice League of America, and Wonder Woman. He has also worked as a writer for many other publishers including Marvel, Dark Horse, and Wildstorm.

Denny Riccelli is the creator of popular webcomics including Get That Chicken, Lollygagging, and Cousin Harold

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its eleventh year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees to its May 23-26, 2013 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.
For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com.

Laurie Holden and Danai Gurira Joins Phoenix Comicon 2013

Phoenix Comicon is proud to announce Laurie Holden and Danai Gurira, from the cast of the hit TV show The Walking Dead will be attending Comicon 2013.

“The Walking Dead has become a cultural phenomenon.  Having Laurie Holden and Danai Gurira at Phoenix Comicon this year is very exciting.” Says Marketing Director Jullian Squires

Laurie Holden is an American-Canadian actress and portrays Andre on The Walking Dead. For her work on the show, Holden was nominated for a Saturn Award in 2011. Outside of The Walking Dead, she is known for numerous rolls in TV shows such as, The X-Files, The Shield, The Magnificent Seven, and movies Silent Hill and The Fantastic Four.

Danai Gurira  is an actress and an award winning playwright. She joined The Walking Dead as a regular for season three, playing the katana wielding Michonne.   She has also appeared in TV shows Law and Order, Life on Mars, Lie to Me, Law and Order CI and has a recurring role on HBO’s Treme.

We have many more guest announcements over the coming weeks. To get up to date information as it is released you can follow us at https://www.facebook.com/phoenixcomicon

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its eleventh year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees to its May 23-26, 2013 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com.

Announcing Big Dog Ink Cosplay Edition Variant Covers

Big Dog Ink is proud to announce a new feature for convention appearances: Cosplay Edition Variant Covers.  Limited edition, collectible variant covers have become a mainstay of the convention scene.  When the family goes to a theme park you buy a collectible key chain or shot glass.  When you go to a comic book convention, the variant cover is your must-have take home commemorative item.  Cosplayers are also a huge part of the convention scene.  Very little beats the thrill of seeing someone so in love with comics that they are inspired to dress up in a costume and wrap themselves in the personae of their favorite character

So what’s a Cosplay Edition Variant you may ask?  In short, it’s Big Dog Ink’s way of saying we love our devoted, committed, fanatical, amazing fans who come to conventions dressed up as Big Dog Ink characters and we want to support and reward their time, effort and general bad-assery.  Starting with our first 2013 convention appearance at Amazing Arizona Comic Con at the Phoenix Convention Center Jan 25-27^th, any fan that shows up at the Big Dog Ink booth dressed as one of our characters will take home one of a series of special super limited Cosplay Edition Variant Covers, completely FREE!

To start the series off with a bang, the first Cosplay cover will be a variant for Critter #8 featuring a gorgeous Mike DeBalfo cover with colors by coloring master Nei Ruffino.  So come out and visit Big Dog Ink at a convention appearance near you, get dressed in your best Naomi, Danica, Lucifer, Critter, Tin Man (or any BDI character that tickles your fancy) and pick up your very own FREE Limited Edition Cosplay Edition Variant Cover as a token of our appreciation for helping us prove that Big Dog Ink has the best and most committed fans in all of comicdom!

 About Big Dog Ink

Founded in 2009, Big Dog Ink is an independent publisher of diverse comic book properties such as PENNY FOR YOUR SOUL, URSA MINOR, CRITTER, KNIGHTINGAIL and REX: ZOMBIE KILLER.  Since its inception, Big Dog Ink has quickly become a top publisher in the industry with its hit series, THE LEGEND OF OZ: THE WICKED WEST, which has consistently charted in the "Diamond Top 300" list.  BDI has gained a loyal fan following due to our high quality art, stories and dedication to elevating the art of small press and creator owned publishing.

Editor's Note: Wow, wow and wow again! BDI is pulling out all the stops! I've never cosplayed but I've wanted to. This might be just the incentive I need!