Frankenstein, werewolves and mummies fascinated Mike Drummond as a child.
His favourite comic book character is Moon Knight.
“He first appeared in the late ’70s and I remember it was in a Werewolf by Night comic where he first appeared,” said Drummond.
After that the character was featured in his own series.
“I read that and totally loved it. As a collector and comic book fan I have collected probably about 95 per cent of all Moon Knights now. I have a bunch of signed copies,” he said.
Comic books help “spark the imagination” of children, said Drummond.
“It already gives you the pictures so when you move into novels you already have your imagination flowing,” he said.
Comics led to the creation of Curious Comicon in Nanaimo. What started during Free Comic Book Day is now a convention that attracted about 1,500 people last year. The event is now in its third year and admission to the event is free.
Drummond, Curious Comicon organizer, said that idea of free admission was reinforced for him after he heard a story about a single mother who attended last year with her children. The family couldn’t afford to go to other paid events on the mainland, but could attend the Nanaimo event.
The mother told his friend she felt like a hero for the day because she was able to bring her children to a free event.
“That is what it’s all about … making it accessible for everybody to come and enjoy it and experience a con without breaking your pocketbook,” said Drummond. “If you want to spend some money in here there will be lots of vendors to spend money on or if you want to bid of stuff for the silent auction, great, but you’re not forced to. Just come and hang out and have some fun.”
Curious Comicon, presented by Curious Comics, is Saturday (May 6) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Country Club Centre.
A variety of comics for different ages will be given away free.
The event is raising money for the Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada with raffles, a silent auction and donations will be accepted during the event.
Drummond, Curious Comicon organizer, said the goal is to raise money for the charity.
“If we do $6,500 I will be blown away,” he said.
This year’s event features GhostBusters of B.C., Little Tales Princess Parties, Mandalorian Mercs Costume Club, Dark Knight of Victoria and Heroes Inc.
There will also be a cosplay contest, Minecraft tournament, artist alley and vendors. There will be about 90 tables throughout the shopping centre.
The cosplay contest begins at 2 p.m.
Actor Mackenzie Gray, known for roles in Man of Steel, Warcraft and various television shows, is attending the event. Gray is a two-time Leo Award winner.
For more information about the Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada, please visit www.childrenwish.ca.
For more info about Curious Comicon, please visit www.facebook.com/curiouscomicsnanaimo.
arts@nanaimobulletin.com