Supanova – the annual pop culture pilgrimage is on
Don’t be frightened, this is not a real Pokemon, but a person in a self-cast fibreglass suit
Do you know what “cosplay” is? It’s when grownups go to a huge amount of trouble to costume themselves as their fictional pop culture heroes. It’s elaborate, it’s competitive, it’s artistic, and it’s only one tiny strand of the extraordinary colour and fun of the annual Supanova event, taking place in Sydney this coming weekend.
Every year fans of scifi, comics and graphic novels, fantasy, anime, gaming and many and varied other subcultures find their way to Sydney Olympic Park to join with others of their kind. Imagine a giant dome filled with superheroes, elves, robots, pirates and monsters. Imagination rules, and everybody’s goal is simply the joy of sharing in a more whimsical world, whether you happen to be into Conan the Barbarian, Sailor Moon or Doctor Who.
The celebrity guest list is vast and astonishing. There are actors like James Bond George Lazenby, artists like Wonder Woman illustrator Nicola Scott, and authors like Robin Hobb and Scott Baker. Did your heart ever beat for Jamie Bamber from Battlestar Galactica, or Ming-Na Wen from Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., or Nikolaj Costa-Waldau from Game of Thrones? They will be there alongside voice-over artists from hit animation series like Adventure Time, Naruto Shippuden and Ben 10, and beloved genre fiction novelists. This year even the king of Marvel comics Stan Lee is in town.
Some queue to speak to or gain the autographs of actors and other artists from cult movies and television shows, or their favourite genre fiction authors. Some are there to compete for cosplay titles. Some just want to watch and wander. Everyone seizes the opportunity to browse the work of independent artists who bring their images, graphic novels, costumery and themed merchandise to sell. This is a family-friendly event, and everyone is encouraged to dress up (not compulsory), take photos and share their passions.
What: Supanova Pop-Culture Expo
When: Friday 13 (1-8pm), Saturday 14 (10am-6pm), Sunday 15 (10am-6pm) June
Where: The Dome, Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park
Cost: basic day passes start at $27.50, children 12 and under free with paying adult.