I was very lucky to have been able to attend the Cape Town Comic Con Convention that took place at the CTICC (Cape Town International Convention Centre) this past Friday.
The convention took place over a jam packed weekend, starting on Thursday, 27th April to Sunday 30th April 2023. In partnership with Fan Con Cape Town, the event was aimed at being the ultimate convention for all things geek, gaming and cosplay.
I attended the event on Friday as the Saturday sold out in record time! Having complete FOMO, I managed to get tickets before the entire weekend was completely sold out. Being a cosplay convention, I was keen to build my own cosplay. With a renewed love for all things Studio Ghibli, I decided to go as the lovable Totoro, a gray lovable forest spirit from the cult classic, My Neighbour Totoro released in 1988 (which so happens to be the year I was born, so twinsies). Doing a reimagined version, I combined elements from the movie to create my cosplay, such as the susuwatari or soot sprites found in the house, the markings on Totoros body and the leaf on his head.
The event was buzzing with hype, covering two floors for a bigger and better experience. The first floor was the main buzz area, starting off with a wider array of artists in Artist Alley, covering an array of characters, with each design so unique in itself. I did wish that the section was more central, as this side tended to be a bit quieter than the rest of the convention, but getting to see all the different art pieces was really inspiring.
Not to mention the huge variety of vendors, with comic books, display pieces, jewelry and merchandise to drive your little geek heart mad with happiness. The price range was not really set, with some amazing specials, and others being exceptionally expensive, you really had your choice to splurge on the items you really wanted. Comic books especially were selling at 50% off, which made it a dream for collectors.
The Cape Town International Animation Festival was by far my favorite stand, with various speakers and information on how to build your animation career.
Then the Cosplay Zone where you could meet all your favorites, from Leon Chiro to Elizabeth Rage. I was most excited to meet Toonibug! A local cosplayer who makes the most amazing cosplay and shares her tips constantly on how to create cosplay on a budget. I fangirled a bit when I met her, as she towered over me in her Loki cosplay, looking every bit amazing, and then told me she thought my Totoro costume was adorable (Did my heart skip a few beats? Indeed).
On the second floor you were met with all things gaming, we got stuck watching the Call of Duty knock off rounds and then found the table top games as well. I really loved that it catered to every gamer, from noob to pro, everyone had an opportunity to immerse themselves in the range of games available, as well as perhaps purchasing new gaming gear from the different vendors on the floor.
I have left food till last because I have some thoughts, the food trucks outside were a really cool addition to the event, but I do wish it had more variety. Especially as I would have loved something more easier to eat in cosplay, like snacks, as I had more sauce in my wig than anything else. It could just be me though, as I would have loved more anime inspired foods, but again, this is a personal preference as others I had spoken to absolutely loved the food on offer.
Ultimately the event was a roaring success and I am already reared and ready for next year!
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