Sunday, March 4, 2007

Surviving Comic Con NY Pt 4

Okay, the night has ended at the NY Comic Con and it is time to head to the 2nd Annual Indy after Party sponsored by DreamChilde Press, Drumfish Productions, Comic Artist Guild and Crazee Comics. I so need this at this point and collect my things to head out with Jorge Da Dreamer and Anibal Da Animal.

We get there and it is already full of creators of the Indy world. I head upstairs to gather our recording devices to cover the show. I go to place my bag, which contained extra batteries and my PowerBook G4 by Co-Sponsors Phil Clarke’s things and the DJ seems to have an attitude about it. Not a good way to start the night and I definitely wanted to consume a few brews before having to get into it with anyone (it justifies behavior when the law arrives).

So the bag was safely stored away and we headed downstairs to discuss POA for the night. At one point (first half hour) the two floors of the Twins pub was crowded. It changed when people assumed there was not food. The fact is that it took time for the caterers to replenish tables so people left to get something to eat elsewhere and never actually returned.

The music was the kind you would here at a museum (BORING). New DJ next year! The atmosphere was tenser then last year and people huddled in sections with those they knew rather then mingling and connecting with those they did not know. The large round tables made it difficult for navigating (get rid of the tables next year). Those who were seated never got up for fear of losing their seats. The live performances were shorter this year which was an issue since we had the pub all night but the DJ owned the mixer so he left earlier (not a good thing).

One comedian / performer made some comments that did not sit well with several others in the audience and a full out demolition almost erupted had it not been for the professionalism of the individuals insulted. There was one female who had too much to drink and collapsed. She had to be seated and monitored until she was able to leave safely. Another altercation almost erupted between two artists over a misunderstanding. I am telling you, tension was the mood of the night and who knew why an all out brawl did not consume the night.

Other then that, it was cool. If you’ve seen ST. Elmo’s Fire, then that is what it was like to be at this years Indy party; a get together of friends, and colleagues. Last years party was a coming out party and it was lively, hilarious, and an all out blast. This year it was toned down a bit, which I felt should have been the exact opposite. A party or event should be BIGGER each time out. This was no fault of any individual; in fact Phil Clarke did an extraordinary job considering he handled the bulk of things from California. I think for next year the sponsors should start working together four months out to secure acts, communicate to the Pub floor layout and plan, make certain individuals being paid for services are under contract to remain until time indicated and a play list is prepared with the latest and best in music.

I enjoyed catching up with friends I have not seen since the last show and just unwinding. Next up Day 3 of Surviving NY Comic Con 2007.

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