The West End’s first ever Musical Theatre Fan Convention is taking place this weekend at ExCeL, London. Tickets to the Main Stage are already sold out, but fans can still take part in workshops and masterclasses, while getting an autograph and a photo from their favourite West End stars.
Visitors can watch popular West End shows, such as Frozen, Back to the Future, Heathers, and Les Miserables. The Main Stage will also feature cast reunions, show spotlights, talks led by an all-star panel, Q&As, interviews and games. Ambassadors include Aimie Atkinson from Pretty Women, Omari Douglas from Cabaret, Trevor Dion Nicholas from Hamilton, and many more.
Singing and dance classes are taught by performers like Alice Fearn from Wicked, Layton Williams from Everybody’s Talking About Jamie and Alex Sarmiento from Hamilton. There are also acting workshops available by Idriss Kargbo from Lion King, and Bobby Little from Heathers, just to name a few.
On Theartland visitors can explore the marketplace with independent fan art and collectables, meet exhibitors from all facets of musical theatre and take part in unique photo shoots. At the Stage Door, photo and autograph experiences with performers will also be available.
Fan meetings and competitions are organised, so theatre enthusiast can meet up with like-minded people. The Cosplay Competition will be shown on the Main Stage along with the Masquerade parade, after which a panel of industry professionals will choose the winner. The Star of Musical Con competition aims to find the West End’s next star, the winner will receive incredible prizes along with a crown. A Lip Sync Battle will also take place where fans can slay their favourite musical numbers on live stage.
The Voice of London has reached out to fans preparing for the event. Megan Carter, cosplayer, said: “I can’t wait to attend Musical Con. I’m so excited to meet so many like-minded fans and interact with all my favourite shows. I’m preparing by making sure my cosplay is as accurate as possible and finding other people who are attending to meet up with. It’s going to be such a brilliant experience!”
Other fans have turned to Instagram to express their excitement:
Words: Anna Kamocsai | Subbing: Mathumithah Kandiah