Creating Your Own Convention Experience
As seasoned experts in holiday decor and artificial Christmas trees, we understand the joy and excitement of attending fan conventions. The sights, sounds, and camaraderie of these events can be truly magical, transporting attendees to a world of imagination and shared passions.
When Creation Entertainment announced their “Star Trek to Chicago” convention in 2024, it piqued our interest. After all, the guest lineup included many familiar faces we had been eager to meet. While we had some mild concerns about how this event might differ from the conventions we typically attend, the opportunity to check off so many names on Anne’s Trek-actor checklist was just too good to pass up.
To our delight, “Star Trek to Chicago” exceeded our expectations in many ways. The intimate venue, dedicated fans, and welcoming atmosphere combined to create an unforgettable experience. In this comprehensive article, we’ll share practical tips, festive decoration ideas, and behind-the-scenes insights to help you plan your own convention adventure.
Saturday’s Events: From Dawn till Dusk
Our second day at the convention began bright and early, with Anne and I arriving at the Hyatt by 8:30 a.m. to secure parking. Though the garage was quite spacious, we knew the crowds would only grow as the day progressed. After a quick breakfast, we made our way to the theater for the daily welcome panel hosted by our gracious emcees, actor/podcaster Ryan T. Husk and Bonnie Gordon, the voice of the ship’s computer on Star Trek: Prodigy.
Engaging the Audience
The centerpiece of their presentation was Gordon’s rendition of the guest list, sung to the tune of a song from the musical Chicago. It was a delightful way to kick off the day and get everyone excited for the slate of events to come.
Our first guest of the day was Jonathan Del Arco, best known as the autonomous Borg Hugh from The Next Generation. Rather than a traditional Q&A, Del Arco flipped the script and invited fans to step up to the microphone and share their own first Trek experiences. This interactive approach fostered a sense of camaraderie, allowing attendees to connect over their shared love of the franchise.
Exploring the Vendors’ Hall
After Del Arco’s panel, we headed to the vendors’ hall to see if any of the Next Generation cast members had arrived at their autograph tables. Sure enough, Marina Sirtis had already drawn a long line of eager fans. Though Anne had already met Sirtis at an earlier convention, she couldn’t resist the opportunity to revisit her all-time favorite Trek actor.
The “Star Trek Rat Pack” Takes the Stage
At 10:45, we reentered the theater just as the “Star Trek Rat Pack” panel was winding down. This quintet of Trek supporting actors – Casey Biggs, Max Grodenchik, Vaughn Armstrong, Jeffrey Combs, and Ethan Phillips – delighted the audience with their tuxedo-clad song parodies. Highlights included Combs confirming Shran as his favorite character and Biggs revealing his original audition was just five words long: “They’re in range, sir. Fire!”
Q&A with John de Lancie
The main event of the day for Anne was the Q&A with John de Lancie, who portrayed the iconic character Q. Though she had seen him speak many times before, de Lancie’s effortless charm and storytelling ability never failed to captivate. Audience questions ranged from Trek trivia to his roles in Breaking Bad and Days of Our Lives.
A Pottery Surprise from Anson Mount
After de Lancie’s panel, we returned to the vendors’ hall to finally meet Anson Mount, aka Captain Christopher Pike from Strange New Worlds. To our delight, Mount had brought his own handmade pottery to sell – a unique hobby that set him apart from other actors. We couldn’t resist purchasing one of his creations, carefully securing it in the car to avoid any mishaps.
An Afternoon of Photo Ops
The rest of the afternoon was devoted to a series of photo ops with the Trek stars. Despite the longer lines, the process was surprisingly smooth, thanks in part to our familiarity with the convention’s procedures. In between appointments, we enjoyed chatting with fellow attendees and even provided guidance to those who were new to the convention experience.
The “Women of Sci-Fi” Panel
As the day wore on, we took a break to rest our feet and catch up on phone notifications. We reentered the theater just as the “Women of Sci-Fi” panel was getting underway, featuring Tawny Newsome, Gates McFadden, and Michelle Hurd. Their insightful discussion touched on the evolution of women’s roles in the genre and the importance of diverse representation.
The Star Trek Rat Pack in Concert
To cap off the day, we attended the highly anticipated Star Trek Rat Pack concert. The five actors performed their signature Trek-themed song parodies, with Ethan Phillips providing comedic relief between numbers. While a few of the jokes fell flat, the overall energy and enthusiasm of the group was infectious. We even had the opportunity to purchase their autographed CD as a memento of the occasion.
Embracing the Unique Convention Experience
Throughout the day, we were struck by the many ways in which “Star Trek to Chicago” differed from the conventions we were accustomed to attending. From the intimate theater setting to the unconventional autograph procedures, the event offered a truly unique experience that required adaptability and patience.
Navigating Unfamiliar Protocols
One notable difference was the way autographs were handled. Rather than the standard open-table format, several actors were only available for scheduled signings in the back of the theater. This required attendees to remain seated during programming to await their designated time slot. While an unusual approach, it allowed the convention to maintain a cohesive schedule and minimize disruptions.
Embracing the Intimate Atmosphere
The smaller venue also lent itself to a more intimate atmosphere, fostering a sense of community among the attendees. We found ourselves frequently playing the role of “honorary volunteers,” answering questions and guiding first-time con-goers through the process. This personal interaction was a refreshing contrast to the sometimes-overwhelming crowds of larger events.
Discovering New Passions
One of the highlights of the weekend was discovering Anson Mount’s unexpected talent for pottery-making. This unique hobby not only set him apart from other actors but also provided a tangible souvenir for fans to cherish. Moments like these remind us that conventions can spark unexpected discoveries and enrich the overall fan experience.
Conclusion: Designing Your Own Convention Adventure
As we reflect on our time at “Star Trek to Chicago,” we’re reminded of the joy and wonder that can come from immersing ourselves in the fan community. Whether you’re a seasoned convention-goer or embarking on your first event, the key is to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to embrace the unique experience.
By focusing on the practical aspects of convention planning, such as navigating unfamiliar protocols and anticipating potential challenges, you can set yourself up for a successful and enjoyable event. And don’t forget to leave room for the unexpected – it’s often the serendipitous moments that create the most lasting memories.
So, as you plan your next convention adventure, remember to pack your sense of wonder, your holiday spirit, and your artificial Christmas tree expertise. With these tools in hand, you’ll be well on your way to crafting an unforgettable experience that celebrates your passions and connects you with a community of like-minded enthusiasts.
To learn more about the Artificial Christmas Tree Shop and our wide selection of high-quality trees, visit our website today. Happy holidays, and happy convention-going!
