Wizard World sent the two day programming schedule for the upcoming Wizard World Toronto Comic Convention our way. If you are fan of stars like Jeri Ryan, Amy Acker, and Scott Bakula, you’ll want to head up north to check the show out.
Interactive sessions with “Quantum Leap” headliners Scott Bakula and Dean Stockwell, the “Being Human” trio of Sam Witwer, Sam Huntington and Meaghan Rath and stars like Jeri Ryan, Paul Wesley, WWE® Hall of Famer Edge® and Amy Acker, evening parties, movie screenings, comics sessions and more highlight the special programming offerings at Wizard World Toronto Comic Con, April 14-15 at Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC). The two days are packed with fun, informative panels which span the world of pop culture from movies to comics to television and more.
Some of the top sessions include:
- A “Quantum Leap” reunion, with stars Bakula and Stockwell sharing stories about the award-winning sci-fi series
- Witwer, Huntington and Rath show their human sides in discussing the hit Syfy series which already has a huge cult following
- Q&A and unique meet-and-greet opportunity with Ryan, “Seven of Nine” on “Star Trek: Voyager” and standout character actress in “Boston Public” and “Body of Proof”
- WWE® Hall of Famer Edge® won’t throw any chairs – we don’t think – but fans will want to grab one for this larger-than-life superstar’s panel
- Acker, Paul Wesley, Colin Ferguson and Sean Maher dish on their respective careers and roles
- Informative, interactive sessions with superstar artists including Michael Golden, Dave Ross, Mike Deodato Jr., John McCrea, Ken Lashley, Francis Manapul, Dale Keown, Greg Horn and others
- Screening of the groundbreaking 1984 film THE LAST STARFIGHTER, hosted by stars Catherine Mary Stewart and Lance Guest
- Portfolio reviews by Glass House Graphics CEO David Campiti and his professional team, looking for the next big star artists
- Party time… including Wizard World Toronto Drink And Draw, hosted by artist Tommy Castillo, and the Official After Party (locations TBD)
- The popular adult costume contest and fun kids costume contest with great prizes
Unless noted, Toronto Comic Con programming will take place in the designated panel rooms at the MTCC, and is included with admission to the event. The Jeri Ryan Meet and Greet requires a separate ticket purchase. Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels.
Saturday 04/14
Portfolio Reviews
Calling all artists! If you’re an aspiring comic illustrator, make sure to visit the Glass House Graphics booth where CEO David Campiti will conduct professional art and portfolio reviews. David has discovered and trained such superstars as Ed Benes, Ivan Reis, Joe Bennett, Luke Ross, Al Rio, Stephen Segovia, Harvey Tolibao, Bong Dazo, Cliff Richards, Will Conrad, and Mike Deodato – and you could be next! (BOOTH 919)
11:00 – 11:45AM
How To Fail In Comics
Big City Comics hosts this informative panel dissecting some of the biggest failures and successes of in the comic industry, including video clips from the documentary How to Fail in Comics, which features interviews with dozens of comic greats – including Stan Lee, Neal Adams, Michael Golden and more! (ROOM A)
Storytelling With Michael Golden: Taking It To The Next Level
Join groundbreaking storyteller Michael Golden – known for his work on Dr. Strange, The ‘Nam, G. I. Joe, and Batman – as he shares his fundamental rules for how to craft your story and take it to a professional level. (ROOM B)
12:00 – 12:45PM
Penciling For Comics With Dave Ross
Max the Mutt Animation Studios presents this interactive workshop where students will be introduced to the step-by-step process involved in the art of illustrating comic books, including script breakdowns, page and panel design, and the roughing out of story sequences through to the finished “pencils” stage. (ROOM A)
Colin Ferguson Q&A
Actor Colin Ferguson makes his Wizard World debut at Toronto Comic Con, and will take to the stage to spill on his days as Sheriff Jack Carter on the wildly popular Syfy series “Eureka.” (ROOM B)
1:00 – 1:30PM
Vampire Lore And Other Urban Myths And Legends
If a little “love bite” could make you faster, stronger, more beautiful and immortal, why wouldn’t you do it? The “Pop Culture Professor” Dr. Rebecca Housel answers this question and more as she explores the world’s fascination with vampires, wolves, ghosts and everything supernatural. (ROOM B)
1:00 – 1:45PM
Chalk Talk With Mike Deodato Jr.
Don’t miss the chance to learn from superstar artist Mike Deodato Jr. (The Amazing Spider-Man; Wonder Woman) in a special workshop where he will share the tricks and tips behind some of his best works. Moderated and abetted by Glass House Graphics artist agency’s CEO David Campiti, who will also do portfolio reviews all weekend for their 2012 talent hunt! (ROOM A)
1:30 – 2:00PM
Wizard Spotlight: WWE® Superstar EDGE®
WWE® Superstar Edge® sits down in a very special session where he will share the story behind his rise to wrestling superstardom. (ROOM B)
2:00 – 2:45PM
Being Human Panel
Sam Huntington (“Cavemen”; Superman Returns), Sam Witwer (“Smallville”; “Battlestar Galactica”) and Meaghan Rath (“The Assistants”) reunite to dish on their on-screen double lives, and all of the shenanigans that go on behind-the-scenes of their Syfy series “Being Human.” (ROOM A)
Breaking Into Comics: International Invasion
International superstar artists John McCrea (Batman; Superman), Javi Fernandez (Flashpoint; The Outsider) and Jock (Detective Comics; Batman) share how they propelled to the top of the American market, as well the differences and difficulties they have when dealing with American editors and publishers. This is a rare USA appearance for all three artists, so don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn from these comic masters! (ROOM B)
3:00 – 3:45PM
Paul Wesley Q&A
Paul Wesley’s fame reached new heights with his role as Stefan Salvatore on the breakout series “The Vampire Diaries.” Don’t miss his Wizard World Comic Con debut, where he will share his favorite moments from the show at the core of America’s vampire obsession. (ROOM A)
Steampunk 101
Join the Toronto Steampunk Society as they give you a tour of the exciting world of prop weapons and Steampunk fashion! They will share the tricks and short cuts to building your own Steampunk armory and wardrobe, including step-by-step instruction on everything from corset construction and bustling, to distressing your weapons. (ROOM B)
4:00 – 4:45PM
Jeri Ryan Q&A
With a résumé that includes impressive roles including Seven of Nine on “Star Trek: Voyager,” Ronnie Cooke on “Boston Public,” or her newest role as Kate Murphy on “Body of Proof,” Ryan talks to fans about her extensive career, ups and downs in the industry and her thoughts on the new generation of sci-fi and fantasy on television. (ROOM A)
Comic Scene: 2012 Preview
Ken Lashley (Batwing; Lucas Films), Marcus To (Batwing; The Huntress), Francis Manapul (The Flash; Adventure Comics) and Marco Rudy (Action Comics; Superboy) – four incredible artists working on one of the most anticipated re-launches yet – team up to discuss all of the great new projects we can expect to see in 2012. (ROOM B)
5:00 – 5:30PM
Jeri Ryan Meet And Greet
Don’t miss your chance to meet Jeri Ryan, and you will also have the opportunity to take one photo with her on your own camera. Refreshments will be served. Spots are very limited and this event will be closed once we reach capacity. You must present a Jeri Ryan Meet and Greet ticket to gain entry to this event.
5:00 – 5:45PM
Doctor Who: From Totter’s Lane To Demon’s Run – Adventures In Time, In Space
Doctor Who is the longest running science fiction series in the world. Travel by TARDIS and explore this phenomenon with fans of both the classic and new series. It’s a panel about everything Doctor Who! (ROOM B)
5:00 – 7:00PM
The Last Starfighter Screening – With Catherine Mary Stewart And Lance Guest
Lance Guest and Catherine Mary Stewart host a special screening of the 1984 sci-fi adventure film The Last Starfighter, where Lance Guest stars as Alex Rogan, an average teenage boy that runs away from his family and girlfriend (Stewart) after he is recruited by an alien defense force to fight an interstellar war. (ROOM A)
6:00 – 6:45PM
Comic Con Costuming With The 501st
The 501st costuming group shares their tips, skills and ideas on how to build and improve your comic con costumes. Whether you’re a Jedi, Rebel Pilot, Trooper or Princess, they will share their knowledge on how to make sure your costume is the best. (ROOM B)
7:00 – 9:00PM
Adult Costume Contest
Get your best costume together and come on down to Wizard World’s Toronto Comic Con costume contest for fun prizes and some of the craziest outfits you’ll see this weekend! (ROOM A)
8:00 – 10:00PM
Wizard World Toronto Drink And Draw – Hosted By Tommy Castillo
Some will drink…some will draw…and the best will take on the challenge of doing both! Don’t miss your chance to hang out with some of your favorite artists at the official Wizard World Drink and Draw, hosted by Tommy Castillo! (Location TBD)
Official Wizard World Toronto Comic Con After Party
All dressed up with nowhere to go? Come hit the dance floor and show us what you’ve got at the official Wizard World Toronto Comic Con After Party! It’s the perfect chance to mingle and show off your costumes, or just have a drink at the bar. There will be lots of surprises in store for the night and you never know just who will pop in, so make sure to get there early. Free admission with show wristband. Must be 21+ to enter. (Location TBD)
Sunday 04/15
Portfolio Reviews
Calling all artists! If you’re an aspiring comic illustrator, make sure to visit the Glass House Graphics booth where CEO David Campiti will conduct professional art and portfolio reviews. David has discovered and trained such superstars as Ed Benes, Ivan Reis, Joe Bennett, Luke Ross, Al Rio, Stephen Segovia, Harvey Tolibao, Bong Dazo, Cliff Richards, Will Conrad, and Mike Deodato – and you could be next! (BOOTH 919)
12:00 – 12:45PM
Quantum Leap Reunion With Scott Bakula And Dean Stockwell
Scott Bakula and Dean Stockwell reunite for a very special appearance at Toronto Comic Con. The two will take a leap back in time to dish on their days as Dr. Sam Beckett and Admiral Al Calavicci on the hit show “Quantum Leap.” (ROOM A)
The Makings Of A Superhero
Tyler Kirkham (Green Lantern Corps; Amazing Spider-Man) Greg Tocchini (Batman and Robin; FF) and Dale Keown (Hulk; The Pitt) are the super artists behind some of your favorite superheroes, and will share the art processes behind their work on legendary series such as X-Men, The Hulk and The Amazing Spider-Man. (ROOM B)
1:00 – 1:45PM
Sean Maher Q&A
Sean Maher – better known to Whedonites as Simon Tam on the sci-fi series “Firefly” and its spin-off movie Serenity – is sure to keep you laughing when he shares the stories behind how his jump into Whedonverse has changed life as he knew it. (ROOM B)
Kid’s Costume Contest
Bring kids 10 and under for this special event with fun prizes just for families and the youngsters. (ROOM B)
2:00 – 2:45PM
Amy Acker Q&A
With leading roles in shows such as “Angel,” “Alias” and “Dollhouse,” it’s no wonder why Amy Acker has become a fan favorite. Acker sits down to talk to fans about her favorite career roles, and shares her thoughts on the new generation of sci-fi and fantasy on television. (ROOM A)
Star Wars Kids: Power Hour
It’s never too early to experience Star Wars. Bring the whole family for this special activity session featuring Star Wars-themed games, crafts and activities for kids ages 3 – 10. (ROOM B)
3:00 – 3:45PM
Digital Art School With Greg Horn
Marvel and DC artist Greg Horn (Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark; Blackest Night covers) leads a discussion on the future of digital art, and takes you through his creative process in creating all of your favorite pieces. (ROOM A)
4:00 – 6:00PM
Gaming 101 With Anime North
Gamers unite! Anime North hosts the gaming panel of all panels, and will share the tips, tricks and secrets that you won’t find anywhere else. (ROOM B)
Animation Domination
The National Film Board of Canada invites you to explore the process of animation with this special animation workshop designed for kids ages 3-13, where they will have the opportunity to create their own original short film that they can keep! (ROOM A)
Toronto Comic Con is scheduled as the second stop on Wizard World’s 2012 North American tour. Hours are Saturday, April 14, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, April 15, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworldcomiccon.com/toronto.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($38 on site); two-day tickets are $40 ($55 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available on a limited basis.
About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.
The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworldcomiccon.com.
