Victoria, BC has lost another pop culture convention, and it’s not due to some fiasco. Earlier this week, Capital City Comic Con announced they are unable to continue putting on future shows and thanked the community for their support. Whatever the reasons are–to which a some Facebook posts asked–they did not disclose.
After attending and taking part in many similiar events in my home city since the 90s, I’m aware of the challenges, hurdles, and problems. In the past, I helped organize the video programming for the video screening rooms, ran role playing game sessions, and even presented a few panels. I know coordinating so everything goes off without a hitch can is not as simple as many may think.
We’re a small city, plain and simple, with perhaps a lower than average percentage who are hard core pop culture enthusiasts. And without the tourism numbers (and dollars) on top, to grow past year three is tough! That’s my theory because the geeky events I’ve attended tend to shut down at or after that cursed numerical count. Gottacon is an exception, and based on what I heard from the grapevine, the move to the Victoria Conference Center led to new difficulties; they eventually folded. Even after many long years as a local fixture, LANtasy, announced their closure.
My home town is allegedly the tourist capital of this province, especially during the warmer seasons, but quite often the people visiting are here for the gardens than other activities. Also, without the hotels showing equal enthusiasm than thinking about the dollars, no show can truly succeed. I have noticed a lot of dining establishments more than happy to host after hour events, but as for other businesses–it’s still with trepediation due to experiences from the past.
Film Festivals and the Arts scene (theatrical) are a different beast, as city wide advertising and arts grants help. I’m not saying CCCC was struggling on that side. It still depends on strong marketing and word of mouth to make these exhibitions worth checking out. Even Emerald City Comic Con began quite small (around 3000 people according to the wiki) and grew from there. When this event got the attention of ReedPop (Exhibitions), the name was bought out and rebranded (slightly) to be the phenomenal event that it is.
People from aound the Pacific Northwest and beyond congregate here because its a meccha of everything you want to shop for, guests you want to see and much more–namely the parties and special events after the exhibit floor closes! Last year’s event blew me away because I got to see Tom Kenny (Spongebob Squarepants) sing! I haven’t had that adrenelin rush for a long time. That happened when Michael Bradley (voice of Lancer from Robotech: Next Generation) performed at a private event during Anime Expo! I’m not saying Capital City should have done the same. They did offer an evening burlesque show for the adults. Younger people may be ready to retire for the night, but that’s an afterthought since to know what they want is tough.
Thankfully, there are other smaller sized localised conventions able to continue the love. I can’t vouch for evening activities, but I’m glad these events are still ongoing. The organisers are aware of the limitations and keep it simple. I wish them all–Covacon, Tsukinocon, Island FanCon and Curious Comic Con–to continue growing. And for those thinking of visiting the Garden City, please check them out!
Highlight Reel of Capital City Comic Con from Outer Rim Garrison 501st Legion
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Naturally I concur with your conclusions. As someone who spends a fair bit of money traveling to conventions in other cities (and occasionally other countries outside North America), I enjoyed saving that money to spend on vendors at the CCCC events instead.
I still think small events in a venue other than the convention centre could work in Victoria with the right focus, be it gaming or sci-fi, with the backing of local businesses that cater to those audiences. I hosted a panel or two on my own obsession, Doctor Who, at more than one of the CCCC events, and it was really nice to meet fellow fans.