WARMING UP
Duke City Comic Con returning for second summer in a row
There was a summer lull in the comic convention scene in New Mexico.
And for the second year, Jim Burleson has helped fill it.
The promoter and founder of Duke City Comic Con is bringing in a smaller, more intimate convention this weekend at Hotel Albuquerque Old Town.
“The summer was left empty for three years and people were getting frustrated,” Burleson says. “Last year, we decided because we have the infrastructure, we would put it on. It turned out really well.”
The second year is bringing in guests including Garrick Hagon, Michael Copon, Tom Kane, Dirk Benedict, Billy Gunn, Jayme Hinshaw and Wil Traval.
Comic artists Andy Kuhn, Franchesco, Brohawk and David Harrigan will also be at the convention.
“Because summer is the convention season and the larger shows can offer a lot more money to the guests, what we focus on with our celebrity guests is getting those that want to come to Albuquerque. Either they missed out on one of our bigger shows or were so impressed with the convention they wanted to come back. It’s also really cool to be able to get more one-on-one time with each of the celebrities.”
Burleson started a sensitivity opening at last year’s event.
This allows children with autism to get in for free as long as they are accompanied by a guardian.
“There will be plenty to see and do,” Burleson says. “Special programing will be developed for the community. This was such a success last year that we incorporated it into our Santa Fe and Albuquerque conventions. It gives a chance for the event to be inclusive.”
The convention is also working more with foster programs.
Burleson says foster children will be able to be an assistant to one of the celebrity assistants for the day.
“They’ll get to see the inner workings of the convention,” he says. “It also lets them see their value.”
Burleson says advance ticket sales have already outpaced those for last year’s event.
“Having the community come out and support the event is special,” he says. “We’re trying to offer a great experience for families.”