Saturday, 12 March 2011
GM
North America’s largest pop-culture tour continues as Wizard World Anaheim Comic Con returns to the Anaheim Convention Center, April 29 through May 1, with superstar guests Michael McMillian, John Schnieder, Adam West, Burt Ward and Chase Masterson headlining the list of celebrity attendees. The event will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop culture, movies, comics, toys, video gaming, television, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.
McMillian, known for roles in the TV series “True Blood” and “What I Like About You,” will be making his first Wizard World Comic Con appearance. Schneider, who has recurring roles in the hits “Smallville” and “Desperate Housewives,” first gained fame in the 1980's series “The Dukes of Hazzard.” West and Ward were TV's original “Dynamic Duo” in the “Batman” series, and Masterson's most popular roles have come on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” and “General Hospital.”
"Anaheim Comic Con was THE most anticipated and attended new event of the Spring, and we are thrilled to come back to the Anaheim Convention Center with one of the hottest new shows going.” said Gareb Shamus, Wizard World CEO. “We will have an incredible array of celebrity guests, and many award-winning comic creators lined up.”
Other popular Anaheim Comic Con celebrity guests include Nicholas Brendon (“Buffy: The Vampire Slayer”), Electra and Elise Avellan (MACHETE, GRINDHOUSE), Claudia Christian (“Look,” “Babylon 5”), Jeff Conaway (GREASE, “Taxi,”), Erika Eleniak (“Baywatch”), Dan Fogler (“Balls of Fury,” “Good Luck Chuck”), Elisabeth Röhm (“Law & Order,” “Heroes”) and Ian Ziering (“Beverly Hills, 90210,” “Dancing with the Stars”).
Fans can also meet their favorite comic creators and artists, including Judd Winick ("Power Girl, Justice League), William Stout ("The Dinosaurs"), Mike Grell ("Green Arrow," "Green Lantern"), Bill Sienkiewicz ("Elektra," "Assassin"), Arthur Suydam ("Marvel Zombies," "Army of Darkness"), Nathan Edmonson ("Who is Jake Ellis?" "The Light), Ethan Van Sciver ("Green Lantern," "Superman/Batman"), Whilce Portacio ("Artifacts," "Uncanny X-Men"), Phil Jimenez ("Amazing Spider-Man," "Astonishing X-Men"), Mark Texeira ("Wolverine," "Moon Night"), Michael Golden ("Batman," "Hulk") and Greg Horn ("Spider-Man," "Turn off the Dark").
In addition, seven artists from the popular "World of Warcraft" adventures by Blizzard Entertainment will be on hand. Fans can interact with Thomas Denmark, Cole Eastburn, Lucas Graciano, Mike "Daarken" Lim, Glenn Rane, Tony Washington and Michael C. Hayes.
Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in costume contests. Event-goers may also try their hand interactive product exhibits and shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at more than 100 dealer booths.
Special events at Anaheim Comic Con include the “Magic: The Gathering” card game tournament, professional photo opportunities (Photo Ops) and others.
Join tens of thousands of fans as they converge on the Anaheim Convention Center at Anaheim Comic Con Wizard World Convention to celebrate the best in pop culture. Anaheim Comic Con brings it all - Movies, Comics, Toys, Video Gaming, Games, TV, Horror, Wrestling, MMA, Original Art, Collectibles, Anime, Manga & More! Anaheim Comic Con is brought to you by the group who produces the most widely attended Comic Con tour!
Press Release for February 2011
Friday, 22 October 2010
GM
 Gareb Shamus, CEO of Wizard Entertainment, today announced the addition of New Orleans Comic Con to the world’s largest pop culture convention series. The event is scheduled for January 29-30, 2011, at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
The event will be the first on the 2011 Wizard World Comic Con schedule, and the first Wizard World convention in “The Big Easy.”
“We followed the Super Bowl Champions all the way to New Orleans this year,” said Shamus. “We are thrilled to come to the home of Mardi Gras, the Saints and World Famous Bourbon Street. New Orleans is the perfect place to create the type of pop culture event called Wizard World. We look forward to seeing all our fans there!”
The freshly renovated New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is an essential component of what makes the city’s major business events so successful. With 1.1 million square feet of contiguous exhibit space, the Convention Center is the sixth largest convention facility in the nation, and it consistently ranks in the country’s top ten of facilities that hold the most conventions and tradeshows annually.
About Wizard Entertainment:
Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Shamus publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare and numerous books about pop-culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Shamus also produces the largest North American Comic Con tour. Wizard World Comic Con – The Pop-Culture Capital of the World!
For the most recent event information please visit www.wizardworld.com and become a Wizard World Comic Con Fan on Facebook.
Wizard World Comic Con Tour:
November 12-14, 2010 – Austin Comic Con – Austin Convention Center
December 4-5, 2010 – Atlanta Comic Con – Cobb Galleria Centre
January 29-30, 2011 – New Orleans Comic Con – Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
March 18-20, 2011 – Toronto Comic Con – Direct Energy Centre
April 29-May 1, 2011 – Anaheim Comic Con – Anaheim Convention Center
May 21-22, 2011 – Big Apple Comic Con ‘Spring Edition’ – Penn Plaza Pavilion
June 17-19, 2011 – Philadelphia Comic Con – Pennsylvania Convention Center
August 11-14, 2011 – Chicago Comic Con – Stephens Convention Center
September 17-18, 2011 – New England Comic Con – Hynes Convention Center
September 24-25, 2011 – Big Apple Comic Con – Penn Plaza Pavilion
November 2011 – Austin Comic Con – Austin Convention Center
December 2011 – Atlanta Comic Con
TBA – New Jersey Comic Con
TBA – Cincinnati Comic Con
TBA – Cleveland Comic Con
TBA – Nashville Comic Con
Press Release for October 18th, 2010
Monday, 23 August 2010
GM
Thursday, 17 June 2010
GM
 In the midst of an overwhelmingly successful 2010 Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con, Wizard Entertainment CEO Gareb Shamus today announced that the event will return to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, June 10-12, 2011.
This year’s event, which concluded on Sunday, featured stars Patrick Stewart, Adam West, Bruce Campbell, James Marsters, Linda Hamilton and more than 150 celebrities, comic artists and writers. The 10th Philadelphia Comic Con brought together fans of pop culture, comics, toys and collectibles and offered a chance to see the best each industry has to offer.
“We were blown away by the response to our 10th Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con this weekend,” said Shamus. “The crowds and the general excitement for the event were way up, and we plan on expanding our list of guests, artists and vendors even more in 2011.”
For more Philadelphia Comic Con guest and programming updates, check out our fan page PHILADELPHIA COMIC CON on Facebook.
Press Release for July 13th, 2010
 Gareb Shamus, CEO of Wizard Entertainment, today announced the acquisition of ComiCONN to create Wizard World Connecticut Comic Con 2011, to be held on a date and at a site to be determined. The announcement came on the first day of this weekend's Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
Shamus acquired ComiCONN (Alternate Universe LLC), whose officers, including Erik Yacko, Joseph Stinson, Mitchell Hallock and Jay Claus, will promote, advise, and consult on the show. ComiCONN "A Show for the Fans by the Fans!" will continue to run local events in Connecticut and are in the planning phases for their 2011 show.
"We are excited to build on the success of ComiCONN with the new Wizard World Connecticut Comic Con in 2011," said Shamus. "There is a large base of fans throughout the state and neighboring areas who enjoy comics, pop culture, science fiction, movies, television, anime, and the many other facets of Wizard World Comic Con shows. It is a strong addition to what will be our largest Comic Con lineup ever next year."
"ComiCONN is proud to join the Wizard World Entertainment family," said Hallock, chief marketing officer and one of the founders. This new alliance will expand the type of excitement that Connecticut-based comic and genre fans have been craving. Our event was created to be an outlet 'for the fans by the fans,' and we have no doubt that by partnering with Wizard we will fulfill that promise tenfold."
"This partnership is very positive for everyone: the industry, Connecticut, and most importantly, the fans," added Yacko, ComiCONN founder and co-owner of the Alternate Universe comic shops.
Wednesday, 02 June 2010
GM
 Patrick Stewart, known to legions of fans as “Professor Charles Xavier” in the X-Men film series and “Captain Jean-Luc Picard” on the television series “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” will attend the Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con, June 11-13 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, it was confirmed today by Wizard CEO Gareb Shamus.
The Emmy-nominated actor, who has performed in more than 100 television and film roles, is one of several actors to appear in all three “X-Men” films: X-Men (2000), X2 (2003) and X-Men: The Last Stand (2006). His role as Captain Jean-Luc Picard, which started on Next Generation, placed him in four Star Trek films: Generations (1994) First Contact (1996), Insurrection (1998) and Nemesis (2002). He also served as the voice of numerous animated characters in movies like Chicken Little and Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, as well as popular TV shows such as “Family Guy” and “American Dad.”
“Patrick Stewart is an international movie, TV and stage icon, and just his presence shows our commitment to the fans and the city of Philadelphia.” said Shamus. “With his addition to our already star-studded guest lineup, this makes Philadelphia the largest Star Trek celebration in the country, and will push the Philadelphia Comic Con to the forefront of the industry.”
Stewart, who is scheduled to appear both Saturday and Sunday, will meet fans and sign autographs at the event. He and the Wizard World team are currently planning programming panels, which will be announced shortly. Check back at http://www.wizardworld.com for further updates.
About Wizard Entertainment:
Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Shamus publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare and numerous books about pop-culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Shamus also produces a North American Comic Con tour.
For the most recent event information please visit http://www.wizardworld.com and become a Comic Con Fan on Facebook.
Press Release for May 24th, 2010
Tuesday, 23 February 2010
GM
 CEO of New York based Wizard Entertainment, Gareb Shamus, announces his latest convention acquisition. Nashville’s Comic & Horror Festival is now Nashville Comic Con Wizard World Convention.
“The fans in Tennessee have supported and have grown this show into what it is today,” said Shamus. “We will continue to bring our fans more of what they love about comics and pop-culture.”
The 10 year old Comic & Horror Festival was previously managed by Marc Ballard, owner of ComicCityTN. Ballard will act as an advisor and consultant to maintain the local feel of the show. Nashville Comic Con “It’s an honor that Wizard took note of this show. The new Nashville Comic Con will broaden the fan base and bring an exciting presence to comic conventions in Tennessee,” said Ballard. New dates, venues and ticket on-sales will be announced soon. For information on all Wizard World Comic Con Tour stops visit http://www.wizardworld.com. About Gareb Shamus:Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Wizard Entertainment publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare, and numerous books about pop-culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Gareb also produces a North American Comic Con tour.
Wizard World Comic Con Tour:
March 26-28, 2010, Toronto Comic Con, Direct Energy Centre
April 16-18, 2010, Anaheim Comic Con, Anaheim Convention Center
June 11-13, 2010, Philadelphia Comic Con, Philadelphia Convention Center
August 19-22, 2010, Chicago Comic Con, Donald E. Stephens (Rosemont) Convention Center
October 7-10, 2010, Big Apple Comic Con, Pier 94
October 15-17, 2010, New Jersey Comic Con, New Jersey Convention and Expo Center
November 12-14, 2010, Austin Comic Con, Austin Convention Center
Atlanta Comic Con, TBD
Cincinnati Comic Con, TBD
Cleveland Comic Con, TBD
New England Comic Con, TBD
Nashville Comic Con, TBD
Press Release for February 23, 2010
Saturday, 13 February 2010
GM
 Avi Arad will speak to Anaheim Comic Con fans on the morning of Saturday, April 17, welcoming them to the inaugural event.
“Gareb and I have been friends for 20 years, and I am honored he asked me to give a keynote address to the fans at Anaheim Comic Con,” said Arad.
Later in the day, Arad will take part in a Q&A panel with fans.
“Avi is a mentor to me, and it means a lot to me personally that he is coming out to show his support of the show,” said Shamus. “The fans are in for a real treat. Avi is a pioneer in our industry, taking comics from print to worldwide films and breathing new life into classic characters. The fans know and respect that.”
While at Anaheim Comic Con, Arad will also sit down for an exclusive interview to be featured in WIZARD magazine.
About Avi Arad:
Arad is currently the head of Avi Arad Productions, and he has Producer or Executive Producer credits on over 50 films to date, including some of the biggest Super Hero franchises. He is the Former Chief Creative officer for Marvel Entertainment and former Chairman and CEO of Marvel Studios. Arad was an executive producer on such films as Spider-Man, X-Men, Blade and Fantastic Four. He was also a producer on Ghost Rider, Spider-Man 2 & 3, Iron Man and The Incredible Hulk. Arad was invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Producers Branch) in 2005.
About Gareb Shamus:
Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Shamus publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare and numerous books about pop-culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Shamus also produces a North American Comic Con tour.
Wizard World Comic Con Tour:March 26-28, 2010, Toronto Comic Con, Direct Energy Centre April 16-18, 2010, Anaheim Comic Con, Anaheim Convention Center June 11-13, 2010, Philadelphia Comic Con, Philadelphia Convention Center August 19-22, 2010, Chicago Comic Con, Donald E. Stephens (Rosemont) Convention Center October 7-10, 2010, Big Apple Comic Con, Pier 94 October 15-17, 2010, New Jersey Comic Con, New Jersey Convention and Expo Center November 12-14, 2010, Austin Comic Con, Austin Convention Center
Atlanta Comic Con, TBD
Cincinnati Comic Con, TBD
Cleveland Comic Con, TBD
New England Comic Con, TBD
Press Release for February 12th, 2010
Wednesday, 10 February 2010
GM
 Gareb Shamus, CEO of Wizard Entertainment, today announces the re-launch of North Coast Comic Con as Cleveland Comic Con Wizard World Convention. “We admire Roger’s vision for this show and promise to bring Cleveland an event filled with creators, celebrities and so much more,” said Shamus. Shamus bought the North Coast Comic Con from Roger Priebe who will advise and consult on the show. Priebe will continue to run local events.
“This partnership is a win-win for everyone; the fans, the industry and the locals. I see nothing but good things ahead,” said Priebe.
Wizard’s Comic Con Tour will bring the strong caliber of stars and exhibitors that fans across the nation have come to expect. New dates and venues will be announced soon.Cleveland Comic Con
For information on all Comic Con tour stops visit http://www.wizardworld.com.
About Gareb Shamus:
Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Shamus publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare and numerous books about pop culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Shamus also produces a North American Comic Con tour.
Wizard World Comic Con Tour:
March 26-28, 2010, Toronto Comic Con, Direct Energy Centre
April 16-18, 2010, Anaheim Comic Con, Anaheim Convention Center
June 11-13, 2010, Philadelphia Comic Con, Philadelphia Convention Center
August 19-22, 2010, Chicago Comic Con, Donald E. Stephens (Rosemont) Convention Center
October 7-10, 2010, Big Apple Comic Con, Pier 94
October 15-17, 2010, New Jersey Comic Con, New Jersey Convention and Expo Center
November 12-14, 2010, Austin Comic Con, Austin Convention Center
Atlanta Comic Con, TBD
Cincinnati Comic Con, TBD
Cleveland Comic Con, TBD
New England Comic Con, TBD
Press Release for February 9th, 2010
Tuesday, 02 February 2010
GM
 Gareb Shamus, CEO of New York based Wizard Entertainment, today announced the acquisition of the Cincinnati Comic & Anime Show in Ohio which is now Cincinnati Comic Con Wizard World Convention. “What Marc accomplished in his first year of the Cincinnati show inspired us,” said Shamus. “We’re excited to have fans experience our Comic Con for the very first time. We promise to bring an event filled with artists, writers, creators, celebrities and so much more.”
Shamus bought the Cincinnati Comic & Anime Show from Marc Ballard, convention producer and owner of ComicCityTN. Ballard will advise and consult on the show to provide insight on local customs and traditions. Cinci Comic Con “To be able to partner with Wizard to expand this show is so exciting; for me, for the fans and for the local business owners,” said Ballard. Attendees can anticipate the strong caliber lineup of stars and exhibitors that fans across the nation have come to expect. New dates, venue and ticket on-sales will be announced soon. For information on all Comic Con tour stops visit http://www.wizardworld.com. About Gareb Shamus:Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Shamus publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare and numerous books about pop-culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Shamus also produces a North American Comic Con tour. Wizard World Comic Con Tour: March 26-28, 2010, Toronto Comic Con, Direct Energy Centre April 16-18, 2010, Anaheim Comic Con, Anaheim Convention Center June 11-13, 2010, Philadelphia Comic Con, Philadelphia Convention Center August 19-22, 2010, Chicago Comic Con, Donald E. Stephens (Rosemont) Convention Center October 7-10, 2010, Big Apple Comic Con, Pier 94 October 15-17, 2010, New Jersey Comic Con, New Jersey Convention and Expo Center November 12-14, 2010, Austin Comic Con, Austin Convention Center Atlanta Comic Con, TBD Cincinnati Comic Con, TBD New England Comic Con, TBD
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