We spoke to one of the producers of Portsmouth Comic Con, Nick Coles, who brings the incredibly successful, yearly convention to Hastings for the first time this summer.
The inspiration behind bringing Comic Con to Hastings stems from a desire to create a community-focused event that celebrates geek culture in an inclusive and accessible way. What makes Hastings Comic Con unique is its emphasis on community and inclusivity. Unlike other conventions that focus heavily on big celebrity appearances, and major media announcements, Hastings Comic Con prioritises creating a safe space for fans to express themselves without judgement.
The event will feature a diverse range of activities, including a cosplay parade, panels and workshops from internationally renowned artists and a host of exhibitions, all designed to celebrate the talents and knowledge of individuals in the industry.
Most rewarding is seeing the joy and excitement on attendees' faces as they connect with their favourite characters, artists, and fellow fans, which is incredibly fulfilling. It's a unique opportunity to bring people together and foster a sense of community.
A challenging element is coordinating all the moving parts, from setting up the venue to managing schedules and ensuring everything runs smoothly, this can be daunting. Attention to detail is crucial to avoid any hiccups.
Our Chief Operating Officer Rachel was in a lift and on one floor, three 7-foot Wookies got in with her. When the lift finally got to the ground floor, she ran out screaming, chased by these Wookies. It was one of the funniest things to see!
Photos from Portsmouth Comic Con, credit Vernon Nash.
We have an open office where anyone can pop in with new ideas which fosters creativity and inclusivity. Fan feedback from previous events, social media polls, and community input play a significant role in determining which guests we invite in the future. The availability of guests and the logistical feasibility are also important factors.
Plan ahead: Check the event schedule in advance and prioritise the panels, signings, and activities you don't want to miss. Use the event website to keep track of times and locations.
Comfortable clothing and shoes - you'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers to adjust to varying temperatures.
As a big Dr Who fan, Tom Baker was my Doctor, and I would love to have a chat with him. This year we have three of the Doctors at Hastings who are all fantastic guests, but Tom would be mine.
Comic Con is a celebration of creativity, inclusivity, and community. It provides a space where fans can connect, express themselves, and find inspiration among like-minded individuals.
Photos from Portsmouth Comic Con, credit Vernon Nash.
Comic Con makes its debut in Hastings on the 14 and 15 June! Snap up your tickets today for an unforgettable weekend.
