The 2nd Annual Once Upon A Time Convention in Whippany, NJ took place this past weekend and it’s clearly becoming one of my favorite conventions to attend. This particular convention is part of a roster of conventions that tour North America and is run by Creation Entertainment. Creation’s roots dates back well over 40 years and I remember going to my first convention in the early 90’s in New York City. Now taking my daughter to these makes it all come full circle. Let’s take a look back at this magical weekend…
I think what separates this convention from traditional ones like San Diego and New York Comic Cons is these here feel like a party. It’s not to say that the bigger cons are not festive because they are but these specific themed conventions feel more intimate and the interaction with the cast is unlike any con I’ve ever attended. The main focus here is not on merchandise. The vendor’s room this year about doubled to 6-7 tables. It’s not an overwhelming amount but there’s enough swag to buy including artwork, funko pops, photos to get signed, t-shirts and mugs, etc. The main focus is on the fan-talent interaction. Each talent has their own 45-60 minute solo panel filled with Q&A from the fans. It’s an incredible way to get to know each one on a more personal level. To be fair this type of setting is harder at a bigger convention to pull off but this is why I love and appreciate what Creation Entertainment has been able to do with theirs.
One of the biggest highlights of the weekend besides the cosplay contest and auction which saw a staggering winning bid of $2600 for a Colin O’Donoghue signed banner was both karaoke night that took place Friday evening and the concert the following evening. Both of which, ran pass midnight. To say members of the cast of OUAT are talented, is a gross understatement. Stars like Gil McKinney (Prince Eric), Karen David (Jasmine), Beverley Elliott (Granny) Chris Gauthier (Smee), Michael Coleman (Happy) and Raphael Sbarge (Archie) are beyond incredible as entertainers. McKinney, David and Elliott in particular, can belt out a tune like it’s no ones business. They love their fans as much as the fans love them. To put it plainly, it’s a celebration and a wonderful celebration it is. Besides the aforementioned supporting cast of characters that attended, the four headliners of Rebecca Mader (Zelena), Colin O’Donoghue (Hook), Lana Parrilla (Evil Queen) and Jennifer Morrison (Emma) were as gracious as you would hope and if anything exceeded our expectations with their time, their stories, their laughter and their love for the fans affectionately known as Oncers.
Creation has the pulse of the fans. Much like the talent that comes spends time with us fans, Creation knows that it’s the passion of the fan base that becomes the backbone of their success. Check www.creationent.com for the remaining 2017 dates and look at where the tour goes in 2018. I know I’m looking forward to OUAT returning to New Jersey in October of 2018.
May the Dork be with you,
JPB
The Dork Knight
