As he’s no stranger to event organisation and after a decade living in the Dogpatch (a term used back in the 90s than today), it will be difficult to sway some people who have opinions about this part of Greater Victoria. But since Lonnie is up-to-date in seeing how this sleepy township has grown, he felt it was time to set up a celebration locals can like. The response has largely been positive.
For example, Daniel Ross’ love for all things nerdy continues with gaming in all its iterations. He helped develop Edmonton’s Animethon back when it started and understands the uphill battle. He now lives in Langford and said, “This show looks promising. Fandom events in Victoria have had issues surviving, so I’m curious to see how this event will thrive.”
Even the two geeky businesses who operate here are happy this is happening. At Everything Games, Langford’s one-stop shop for all things card and tabletop gaming related, “Ron and I are talking about whether we should vend. Since we only found out about it yesterday, we’re still processing the news,” said Kahzen Roberts, co-owner. He mentioned his business partner helped run LANtasy many years ago and knows the scene better than he has.
For Nicolas Pollet who works at Curious Comics‘ Downtown Victoria and Langford branch, he knows both operations get their fair share. “Events like this help spread pop culture around like our stores do, and I am looking forward to Island FanCon,” he said when word reached his ears.
And in the City of Victoria proper, Biagio Woodward of Cherry Bomb Toys and Capital City Comic Con knows that when anyone wants to start an event that is this large, he stated, “They’ll definitely need [the extra] help and this group will figure it out. And if you’re not from here, it’s best to book your hotel now if you’re planning to come.”
On the other hand, Nathan Patten, a long-time resident of Victoria who is very active in the tabletop gaming scene, offered this quote from H.P. Lovecraft to emphasize how he feels. This author wrote: “I find cons (instead of science fiction authorists convention), and the concept of them gaudy and uninteresting. A true fan does not engage in such baccanael delights.”
This organiser has heard it all; whether that’s because of what others have experienced from past events not delivering what’s promised or something else, these individuals will make up anything to validate their stance instead of being open-minded. But ultimately, what they express still has an impact, especially if the individual believes he or she is an Alpha nerd.
The only valid concern stated by other operations catering to this market is that the news doesn’t leave time for some to plan accordingly. Some have said this news is last minute. Usually, announcements happen at least half a year in advance. Cosplayers need months to create what they have, and the shops need just as much time to have staff and stock available. As for convincing those living outside the municipality to come, Eckardt’s arms are open to welcome them all like the master of ceremonies that he is. He said that those unable to make it this year can mark their calendars for the next one.
And when he needs to take a break to recharge, he’ll go home as he often does. Whether that’s to connect with those roots or to be with those people he calls fam back in Prince George, it’s all about those fond memories. It’s possible he’ll need to talk to his peers to identify what elements from the parent show are best to bring to Island FanCon.
Also, when some talents have personal connections or bought homes nearby, that’s a good enough reason to return. Todd McFarlane cut his chops in the comic book world while still living on Vancouver Island. He’s said that he often comes back to see his folks and siblings. And even when at home, he may still want to interact with those fans unable to attend the big shows. It’s possible to find him at a local comic book shop checking out local publications being put on shelves, like Nevin Arnold’s Monsterella! “And because they are familiar with our events, these individuals reached out to us than the other way around,” said this organiser. He believes he’s not the only one who loves the magic that comes from a FanCon event.
“When I had a brief conversation with the City of Langford last year and asked ‘Can we bring that vibe here?’ they were very supportive in helping us move forward.”
And when he knows a lot of young families live in this area, there’s a market to tap into. He’s glad to say kids under 12 can attend Island FanCon for free. Westshore Rebels wanted to make this happen and is this event’s newest sponsor.
As for corporate support, sometimes knowing just how well this brand has done in one city can mean continued help in another. Harris Dodge is a car dealership supporting both events. That’s because one of the general managers, Kyle Bachman, also made the move from Prince George to Langford. He recognises the value of what Island FanCon represents and was quick to jump on board once again. Another name is a condo sales company known as Viking. It’s easy to read between the lines to realise these groups simply want this community to grow.
In order to make this event viable for the long term, Eckardt says he hopes to work with the city council on a regular, ongoing basis. Everything is to do what’s best for the municipality. He said there’s no plan on taking it out, either. And unlike the big events where they oversell, he’s smart to recognize the limits. He stated, “We also want Island FanCon to not feel like it’s too crowded or jam-packed. So we’re actually limiting ticket sales.”
He also said, “In the future, we will be limited by capacity and people’s willingness and desire to join. While our location does not have the same square footage that Fan Expo Calgary or Vancouver has, we want to deliver an experience that’ll be formidable.”
And the more people who are happy, and can say good things through word of mouth, the bigger this show can get.
Island FanCon takes place at the Eagle Ridge Centre and West Hills Arena on April 13 & 14, 2024, at City Centre Park. Like every other convention, the cosplay contest is where it’s at. “It’s the crown jewel of our event, open to all, which is on the main stage on Saturday,” revealed this organiser.
Anyone wanting to be a panellist is encouraged to apply (link). Eckardt hopes to have workshops too. He wants them to help people get into the entertainment industry. Whether that’s in how to prepare for an audition, start a career in voice acting, or learn makeup, it will be up to those applicants to decide. Although this emphasis is like Fan Expo Vancouver’s show, he wants even more of this Film and TV production world to show off their wares, so attendees can learn about the process. And the result may let the City of Langford recognize that it’s time to finally build warehouses for movie studios to use.
He also said there’ll be an announcement every week on Tuesday starting today. And Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson is leading the charge regarding who’s attending. This Game of Thrones star also played Thórfinnr Tooth-Gnasher from The Northman!
Also, he revealed that ticket sales have been steady and very good since the box office opened on Feb 9th. “So if we can be the fastest growing convention in Canada over the years, coupled and teamed up with the fastest growing city in Canada. Everyone’s a winner,” concluded Eckardt.
For a sense at what Island FanCon may be like, please check out Mile Zero represented at Northern Fancon’s video:
