Musicalcon - ExCel

It's about time we had something like this. Remember several years ago when one was announced and fell through? I think it was a con from the off and they still have my money!

Anyway this sounds good, has the backing of loads of stars and the ticket prices are so reasonable!!

I was just thinking that. It was about 3 years ago? And the cancellation had nothing to do with covid.

It sounds like fan hysteria central and I'd walk miles to avoid it.

Not to diss on the general idea, but the line up of "stars" with so many performers from Six, Heathers and other fan favourites and most of what's announced like "...epic cosplay competition, fan meetups, musical lip-sync battles and show sing-alongs" sounds like it's very squarely aimed at a young fan audience, probably with Mom and Dad in tow to finance overpriced "photo opportunities" and "rare merchandise" and so on.

I wish they would announce the West End Flea Market a lot earlier or make it a fixed date like the Broadway Flea Market, so I could plan for THAT as I'd much rather simply have a stroll along stalls, pick up some bits, knowing the money goes to an actual charity and savour the atmosphere without all the hysteria and hype, or as Aimie Atkinson is quoted "It's stagedoor turned all the way to the max"

Hell, no. I'm rather officially old.

Sorry, which way do you want it?

It's ok to monetise a show by selling tickets for it, but not by selling tickets to a convention about the shows?

Wonder whether the outdoor con which was supposed to run in May fell at the post because of this one?

The answer is there if you look for it…. ‘I’m not sure how I feel about it’.

They are totally different things. Presumably some of it will be displays, informative talks and maybe the odd performance, but it will ultimately be about paying for a meet and great, and to get a photo & autograph. This used to be free and for some a fun part of their theatre trips. So, no I don’t think they are the same. Kind of you to go out of your way to quote me from a completely separate thread though, almost like having a discussion on a discussion board.

Reading this thread, I had to Google what "cosplay" is. I'd heard the term but wrongly thought it was one of those new words trans people have coined. Here's the link for anyone similarly in need of education: en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosplay

Have to say and I don't think I am in the minority. But this sounds hateful. A pure money making exercise and no real genuine love behind this.

The only issue with the Excel in terms of West End Live is it's quite far out, it's not anywhere near the theatres. The best part of it being in Trafalgar Square is it's really close to most of the theatres, which is also a plus for the cast as it's not far to get back to their theatre. Also, with more shows doing Sunday shows now, I'd expect the Sunday of WEL to be better than it has previously been.

Welcome to the board thesoberpanda

Plus when you go to a stage door you’re not guaranteed anything and with this you can ensure, at a price, that you get the photo or autograph you’d like.

I agree, whilst I'd never go to something like this in a million years, that doesn't mean others can't and have a brilliant time. The way I see it is it's better to have the option than not!

Some performers will do a roaring trade (CHF, Elphabas, people from Six) in merch and photos which I can't begrudge either.

I do think there is a bit of a carny "hustle" tradition about these convention events, however. The smaller performers often handle the cash themselves in their bumbags, and there's something a little uncomfortable/disingenuous about the act of physically paying someone for a minute or so of their time/a signed photo from their stand. It's a little bit of a soliciting situation for my liking...

An actor I worked with previously told me about the "con circuit" and how certain fans will go to every single one, always pay for a photo and autograph, and it was his responsibility for those five or so minutes to be their "friend". He would make notes on certain superfans with key info, e.g. "cat named Fluffy" for example, then when they pay to meet him again he can check his notes and say "how's Fluffy!!?" which would make that customer's day. Basically, creating a false parasocial relationship in order to secure repeat business. Very carny.

I was also astonished how much relatively obscure names can make in one day, thousands of pounds for shaking hands and taking photographs.

That said, if people choose to do it and enjoy doing it, what's the harm?

I will finally also add, people at these events *can* be truly intolerable. You know the screaming fans at, say, a cast change or first night at Wicked? How they will do anything to get attention from "their cast", usually hurting the enjoyment of those around them?

Now imagine that non-stop, for a whole weekend, in costumes. It isn't for everyone, but some will love it, mostly 12-16 year olds.

Security is always on hand at the big events, and there is always at least one fight/notable incident at every one I've had dealings with. Arguments over cosplay, their favourite actor/actress, who gives the best gift to the actor, how long the actor talks with one person instead of another etc etc etc. The ExCel seems worst for this for some reason.

Despite all that, I'm glad it's happening and hope everyone who goes has a great time.

CHF isn't going, it's her birthday.