ONE OF the biggest names – and loudest voices – in showbiz is coming to Lower Earley this Saturday, along with a galaxy of surprises.
Reading Comic Con is back, bringing with it a chance for people to meet the stars of cult films and classic TV, as well as comic creators.
The event also features displays recreating moments from much-loved films.
Heading the guest list is Brian Blessed, famous for his roles in Flash Gordon and Z Cars, as well as directing murder mystery plays at The Mill at Sonning and guest roles in shows such as Doctor Who, and I Cladius.
Also appearing will be Red Dwarf actor Chris Barrie, Only Fools and Horses star Steven Woodcock, Harry Potter actor Sean Biggerstaff, and Star Wars actor Paul Blake.
Creators attending include Nick Gribbon, who has illustrated trading cards for Topps, Upper Deck and RRParks Cards; Jamie Richards recently produced artwork for Star Wars, and Paul Fry who has illustrated comics for DC and Marvel, including the Alpha and Omega 30th Anniversary Spider-Man 2099 Exodus range.
Photo displays include a Jabba The Hutt throne room, a K9 display and a chance to sit with Gremlins in a cinema. There will also be a car from Resident Evil, and a special Jaws prop set up to make it look like the shark is eating the participant.
A special retro gaming zone will allow people to try their hand at video games past, and visitors are encouraged to dress up as their favourite characters – an activity known as cosplay, and there will be stalls offering all manner of comic, film and TV related books, comics and merchandise.
The event is organised by Creed Conventions, and more than 70% of tickets have been sold for the 10am opening slot.
George Burrows, from Creed, said: “We have a whole host of bays on display, from Doctor Who to Star Wars, even through to Jaws, and with guests like Brian Blessed and Chris Barrie, and many others from the films and TV shows people have grown up loving.
“They’re both icons in their own right; I don’t think there’s anyone who hasn’t heard of Brian blessed through Flash Gordon or of Chris through Red Dwarf, so they’re great additions for us to have.
“After the covid break, we’ve only just returned, but it’s always thriving, and the more who come along, the more we can grow and grow every year.”
Speaking on the growing popularity of Comic Con events around the world, he added: “It used to be more of a collector’s kind of fair, but now it’s so much more family-oriented. That means that it has brought it out of the niche and it’s a more normalised thing to do, and people appreciate it.
“And that’s great for our industry, great for the events and attendees, and it’s all so much more fun as a result.”
As for what attendees can expect: “I’m always looking for another opportunity to make sure we’re delivering the best for Reading.
“So you can expect a diverse event which caters to everyone’s needs.”
The event takes place at Loddon Valley Leisure Centre in Chalfont Way between 10am and 5pm. Tickets cost from £6.28, with star autographs and photo sessions available for an additional fee.
For more details, or to book, log on to: www.creedconventions.com
