Comicpalooza 2018 to mark milestone with celebrities, comics and cosplay
In July 2008, the first Comicpalooza was held at the Alamo Drafthouse Theater in Katy, Texas. From May 25–27, the 10th annual Comicpalooza will be held at the George R. Brown Convention Center.
Recognized as “Texas’ largest entertainment and pop culture event,” the Houston First Corporation owned comic convention has grown significantly over the last 10 years. Compared to the estimated 500 people who attended the first Comicpalooza, this year’s three-day event is expected to draw nearly 50,000 attendees.
Director of Communications for Houston First Corporation Carolyn Campbell states that Comicpalooza 2017’s economic impact on Houston was between $25 million and $30 million.
“Whether you are into cosplay, comics, gaming, film or just a fan of popular artists and entertainers, we think Comicpalooza has something fun and exciting for everyone from 2 to 92,” Campbell said.
This year’s line up of guests consists of actors, comic artists and writers, cosplayers, authors and more. Notable celebrities appearing include Tom Holland, John Cusack, Krysten Ritter and Charlie Cox.
“Of course we are very excited that the real Spider-Man, [played by] Tom Holland, will be part of this year’s festival,” Campbell said.
Emmy winner Michael Chiklis is one of the celebrity guests making a first-time appearance at Comicpalooza this year. Chiklis is known for his roles as Vic Mackey in “The Shield” and Ben Grimm/The Thing in the “Fantastic Four” franchise.
“Comicpalooza is 100 percent about the fans,” Chiklis said.
Along with the ability to interact with celebrities, attendees will have the opportunity to browse vendors, participate in events and be a part of live podcast recordings.
Liz Serna, UHCL alumna and co-host of the Nerdy Bitches podcast, will take part in the recording of the show’s 100th episode during Comicpalooza.
“We planned on doing our 100th episode a few months back, but as it happens, my co-host Heather moved out of state, so it slowed things down,” Serna said. “We knew that she would be flying into town for Comicpalooza 2018, and we really wanted to record the 100th episode in person.”
The podcast, which has been released since January 2015, has been a part of the Comicpalooza Podcast Partnership Program since 2016.
“It really has come to feel like family,” Serna said. “What better place to celebrate a huge milestone like 100 episodes than surrounded by friends and family?!”
Along with live podcast recordings, Comicpalooza will also present various panels, Q&A sessions, games and contests.
“In addition to our live 100th episode, we are excited to also co-host a trivia game show with another local podcast, and will be running a panel on Women in Podcasting,” Serna said. “It’s shaping up to be a great weekend!”
For more information on Comicpalooza 2018 including a schedule of events, the full guest line up and how to purchase tickets, visit www.comicpalooza.com.
Also published on Medium.
