LIHU‘E — Kaua‘i Comic Con 2 is coming to the Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort on April 8, the birthday of the Buddha, and the day before Easter.
A limited number of “badges,” or tickets are currently on sale online through kauaicomicconvention.com, and the recommendation is to get them quickly before they sell out, if anyone is interested in participating.
During the last Kaua‘i Comic Con held before the COVID-19 pandemic, tickets sold out, and space was at a premium at the door to the point where the venue capacity would be surpassed.
Early order tickets are also being offered at a lower price to encourage people to get badges early. People are still able to purchase a badge on the day of the event by cash or credit card at a higher price than if getting them online.
Aaron Yamasato, the Kaua‘i Comic Con producer, said a lot of the artists and vendors from the first Comic Con will be returning after reserving space prior to the pandemic setting in. There will be some new vendors, space pending. Comic Con also confirmed the appearance of special guest dancer — of YouTube, Instagram and TikTok — Nicole Laeno, who will be available for dance workshops, autographs, and a special panel question-and-answer.
“It’s amazing how she has millions of followers on YouTube and TikTok,” Yamasato said. “She’s a very talented young celebrity; even Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson posted videos of her dancing on his social media. She and her family are super sweet, and I hope you’ll be able to meet them at the convention.”
Yamasato, himself a writer and film director, said another appearance will be made by Ming Chen and the Comic Book Men.
“We’re super excited to finally be able to do this again following all of these years,” Yamasato said. “There are lots of fun things being planned, including our cosplay costume contest. This was a big hit the first time, and people are getting ready for this next one. I’m so curious and excited to see all of the costumes.”
More special guests and events will be announced as the date for Kaua‘i Comic Con gets closer, he said.
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 808-245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
