“For over a quarter of a century, The Virginia Comicon has made it a mission to bring in top comic book talent to a venue that is very approachable, comfortable and
“For over a quarter of a century, The Virginia Comicon has made it a mission to bring in top comic book talent to a venue that is very approachable, comfortable and fun for our fans both old and new,” said Dan Nokes from the Small Press/sales section of VA Comicon in an email interview.
The locally owned and operated Virginia Comicon and toy show returns the Richmond Raceway this Saturday, May 9th, and promises to be just as packed and prolific as always.
“We have such comic book veterans as Chris Claremont (Uncanny X-Men), Paris Cullins and Gary Cohn (DC Creators-Amethyst, Blue Devil), Sam Ellis (Archer Character designer) Tim Shinn (Darkhorse Comics Artist) as well as a host of indie creators, geek craft folk and merch, comic and toy dealers far and wide,” said Nokes.
For those of you unfamiliar with Claremont (pictured above) he is arguably the man behind the prolonged success of the X-Men through the late 70’s, 80’s, and early 90’s.
Claremont was the head writer for Uncanny X-Men for 17 years and over that time he created such popular characters as Phoenix, Rogue, Psylocke, Mystique, Jubilee, Emma Frost, and Gambit and created such classic story arcs as The Dark Phoenix Saga, Inferno, and Days of Future Past.
Claremont will definitely have the longest line and will charge $5 per signed item with a 10 item limit. It is recommended by the event organizers that attendees who really want to meet Claremont purchase ELITE tickets which get you in an hour earlier than standard ticket holders and cost $19.95.
In addition to a slew of creators and artists VA Comicon will also feature an appearance by the VA 501st, Virginia’s premier charity Star Wars Cosplayers.
Josh Hamlin, VA’s #1 comic book expert will also be at the show and will be offering cash for comics of value.
Typical to convention standards, the event will also host a variety of panels including one on the just released Avengers: Age of Ultron. The convention will also play host to a custom toy and diorama contest, cosplay armor panel, and costume contest.
Cosplay is encouraged as long as it follows the rules established by those running the convention.
The best way to find out about VA Comicon and their future events is to join their Facebook page or their email list.
“We are fostering a community of Richmond-based fans 15,000+ strong,” said Brett Carreras Owner of the VA Comicon. “I invite you to visit our newly re-designed website at www.VAcomicon.com to register for what is sure to be the most amazing 1-day show in town, with world class talent.”
Tickets for the con can only be purchased online, with a child ticket costing $9.95 and an adult ticket costing $14.95. This can be done through the VA Comicon’s website and it is recommended registration be done sooner than later. There will not be any tickets sold at the door the day of, so if you wish to attend what will be the largest one-day comic show in Richmond’s history you’re going to have to register online.
