(Submitted story and photos)
The comic convention scene in the Augusta area continues to grow, and CanaCon is no exception with even more to offer than its debut last year.
CanaCon, a comics and pop culture convention, will return for a second year from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 30 at the American Legion, 90 Milledge Rd. and brings with it even more guests than its first year along with a charitable purpose.
At the con, guest Tim Shockey will be showcasing The Green Goblin Head which he has owned for several years. The Green Goblin Head is the original screen used truck prop used in the classic 80’s Stephen King horror movie Maximum Overdrive.
“The Goblin Head was salvaged and restored to glory by Shockey, and this will be its first appearance in Georgia,” said Danny Meade, CanaCon co-promoter.
Accompanying it will be Shockey’s mobile museum, featuring movie, television and wrestling authentic set and wardrobe pieces. Con attendees will be able to have their picture taken with the Green Goblin Head with paid admission.
“(They can) hear Tim’s amazing story of bringing the monster prop back to life,” Meade said.
CanaCon is fun with a purpose and will be raising money through a charity raffle benefiting Alice Abbott.
“Miss Alice was born with a rare genetic disorder known as POLR3-related leukodystrophy. The disorder has no cure at this time with all treatments still considered experimental,” Meade said.
All raffle ticket sales are being donated directly to the Abbott family. Prizes up for grabs include a full-size ping pong table, a retro game console with a 32″ TV, a full art set, a Monster High doll collection, art prints and scooters.
“There will be multiple chances to win and help Miss Alice,” Meade said.
Other guests will be featured in the CanaCon Artist Showcase. They include CSRA-based comic book artists and creators such as Randyl Bishop, KJ Eldridge, Lee Newman, Specks Thompson and Michael Rushbrook. The showcase will also feature the works of Shelice Toomer and Beansprout Doodles. Actor William G. Stone and award-winning author Bobby Nash, among others, will also be featured.
Cosplay has a major role at CanaCon as it does at many cons throughout the country.
“CanaCon is holding an exciting cosplay championship. Cosplay continues to grow, becoming more mainstream as an outlet of expression and artist skill. All ages and skill levels are welcome and encouraged to compete,” Meade said.
The grand prize this year is a one-of-a-kind cosplay championship title belt which had been on display at Augusta Book Exchange in Martinez. Cash prizes will be awarded to runners-up.
The cosplay judges overseeing this event will be Atlanta Cosplayers Ambassador Kelly Ann Carroll (Pumpkin of Steel), professional wrestler the Saturday Night Scream Karl Hager, Paul Rogers of Augusta Book Exchange, and the CanaCon mascot, The Ringmaster. The championship begins at 3 p.m. and is free to compete with admission.
Artists and vendors will be set up all day long, featuring pop culture collectibles, toys (modern and vintage), video games, comic books and autographed film, television and wrestling memorabilia.
At the end of the event at 6 p.m., Atlanta-based rock band, Radio Cult, will be performing a live set. For more information on the band, go here.,
“This is an all-ages performance open to everyone. Rock out and have fun,” said Meade.
Tickets for CanaCon are available through Eventbrite and at the door. They are $10 for adults, $5 for teens (ages 13 to 17), with children 12 and under admitted free.
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