Fredericton — As it enters into its seventh year, the New Brunswick Comic Convention is expecting its biggest slate of celebrities yet.
“In the past, we’ve only been able to secure, uh, let’s say ‘lower tier’ celebrities,” said convention organizer Tamara Pryor. “You know — bit players in sitcoms, comic book writers, people like that. But, for some reason or another, we’ve suddenly received a huge influx of interest this year.”
For this year’s event, the organizers of the convention have been able to attract huge names from across all facets of the entertainment industry.
“Oh yes, we have giants in animation like Pixar’s John Lasseter and Ren and Stimpy’s John K., singer/songwriter Ryan Adams, comedians Aziz Ansari, Louis C.K. and T.J. Miller as well as astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. Additionally, Nerdist founder Chris Hardwick will be hosting several events throughout the festival,” said co-organizer Eliza Grogan, listing their itinerary. “I tell you, this thing is to going to be incredible.”
“Incredible as in not credible,” said convention lawyer Tom Morris, butting in. “Regardless what the media might be saying.”
Do they have a personal favourite guest attending the convention?
“Well, I was shocked that we were able to get Brian Singer,” said Pryor. “Not only is he coming off of the huge success of Bohemian Rhapsody, but his work on Superman and X-Men makes him a perfect fit for our demographics.”
“Mhmm, yeah,” added Grogan. “He actually offered to host a free filmmaking workshop for teens, which he’ll be holding in his hotel room over the weekend. I mean, he has just been super generous with his time.”
The added draw for big-name talent this year has allowed the organization to put together some larger events than the typical booths and games the convention usually sees.
“We’re excited to finally announce that, for our main event, we will be hosting a 20th anniversary panel for the enduring classic American Beauty,” said Pryor, excitedly. “And you won’t believe who we got to show up for it!”
While events like these are difficult to put together even under normal circumstances, the organizers say that the added effort will be worth it in the end.
“I really don’t mind putting in the extra work,” said Pryor. “Why? Because I think that this is going to be our best convention yet!”
“Me too,” agreed Grogan.