To think that it all started with a modest little storefront in Albany, long since closed.
Fantaco---the mere name is an amalgam of fantasy & comics----opened its doors in 1978, and that same year hosted its first convention, aptly titled, Fantacon, at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center, where the event was regularly held, albeit sporadically, between 1978-90. Fantaco wasn't just a comics shop, though. It was a developing cottage industry all under one roof. They also had a publishing division that had a modest line of titles, again published sporadically, through the company's history.
It has been 22 years since the last Fantacon, and, I have to admit, I was taken by surprise when a friend e-mailed me to tell me that the convention is being revived for 2013. The dates & location are already set, but this time, it's not going to be in downtown Albany. Instead, due to insurance concerns, the event is set for the Marriott hotel in Colonie on September 14-15, 2013. Guests have already been lined up, and advance tickets are available. Mind you, this is all a year in advance, and a lot can change between now & then.
For comics fans, veteran artist Michael T. Gilbert, best remembered for the independent hit, Mr. Monster, back in the 80's & 90's, is already signed to appear. Advance two-day passes are available, either by themselves, or with a t-shirt or some other gift, and prices start at $30.80. Sadly, no single-day tickets are available-----yet, but should be. In today's economy, average schlubs like ye scribe might not afford to commit to both days for a number of reasons, especially money.
For more information, I direct you to the following website:
www.fantacon.com
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