Future of Niagara Falls Comic Con uncertain
Niagara Falls Comic Con is still scheduled to take place in four months, but even the organizers are unsure what it may look like this year.
The event’s 10th anniversary was supposed to take place next weekend at the Scotiabank Convention Centre but co-owners Chris Dabrowski and James Ponce opted to postpone — instead of cancel — due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It now runs Sept. 11 to 13.
But how the massive fan gathering will function in light of social distancing is still a mystery.
“We will cross that bridge when we get to it,” said co-organizer Chris Dabrowski, saying the show will adhere to “protocols instituted by health officials” for large consumer shows — whenever that may be.
“Right now our main concern is that people remain safe and healthy.”
More than 28,000 people attended last year’s Comic Con over three days. In its current format, social distancing would be challenging — comic cons everywhere are known for their large crowds, long lineups and packed venues. But Dabrowski says four months is a long time for new rules and regulations to come into effect, making it difficult to make plans now.
“New protocols could be in place tomorrow, or next week or next month.”
Photo ops pose another challenge. One of the most popular features at comic cons are meetand-greet pictures fans can take with celebrities, often in proximity. They can cost anywhere from $25 to even $200 each.
“We will cross the photo op bridge when we get to it,” says Dabrowski.
Co-owner James Ponce says the show’s main focus is “to run a safe, fun event for fans.
“Whatever protocols the government recommends we institute will be followed. Right now, we are taking this day by day, just as everyone else is.”
Before it was postponed, the show was scheduled to include guests like comic book legend Frank Miller, “Star Trek” icon George Takei, horror mistress Elvira and “Sons of Anarchy” star Ron Perlman. While many have rescheduled for September, others are still pending.
Other major fan events like San Diego Comic Con and Toronto Comic Con have cancelled their 2020 shows. Toronto’s Fan Expo Aug. 27 to 30 is still going forward.
The litmus test for other shows may be the Tampa Bay Comic Con, which is still being held July 10 to 12. Among the safety measures being put in place are temperature screenings for anyone entering the Tampa Convention Center and limited occupancy of exhibit halls.