2010 HAMACON

Had a chance to check out another Con this past weekend, namely, the brand new HAMACON. Much like CrisisCon in 2008, this one's a start-up, but geared to all things Anime and Japan.

Ok, my first brushes with Anime included the 80's Transformers show, some weird thing about Steaming Hot Rice, and Hamtaro. (If you listen carefully, you'll hear thousands of faceplams going off 'round the net over that last statement.) In the last few years I was introduced to Full Metal Alchemist, Inuyasha, and Ghost in the Shell. (Now you'll hear a "ok, we'll forgive him" murmur.) Translation: I had a respectable reference frame going in, but an expert, I'm clearly not. Thankfully, both the pleasant staff and kind con-goers were my teachers.

Anime runs the topic gamut. If you can imagine it, there's a series about it and plenty of merch to go along with it. No surprise, con costumes ran the gamut. I saw more pigtails in practically every rainbow color than I have ever seen anywhere. The reason? Said hair-dos were often just a small part of the VERY detailed costumes meant to mimic particular characters. Things like cell phones, platform shoes, etc, were very carefully selected props. Many costumes were hand sewn. Yes, there were several maid and school girl outfits pertaining to particular shows. Those that didn't have a set costume, often went with Neko ears and tails or similar to join in the fun. Saw some very cool kimonos and geta as well as video game characters like the Kingdom Hearts person pictured above. (Do I get Anime points for knowing that? Maybe?)

Now, with all this running around, and Anime being a mainly younger crowd, safety and security is a must. I was glad to see several visible adults keeping eyes and ears open. During a conversation with staff, I was informed that there was at least one low profile security person keeping tabs on potential creepy people. You know what I mean here. In short, this was a thought-out and safe place to enjoy.

While my time was limited, the Okinawa Festival Drums and N. Alabama Seibukan Karate School demos were enjoyable. There was a Maid & Butler Cafe themed meal with gourmet snacks and drinks. (Wish I could've gotten to that one.) Naturally there were a ton costuming panels, discussing everything from cell phone bling to body types, to Cosplay makeup, to Steampunk, to plushie sewing. Anime screening rooms were also set up for folks who wanted a break . Same for gaming rooms.

The Dealer's Room and Artist Alley were each respectable. If you wanted custom made buttons, sketches, Pocky (and who doesn't love that HIGHLY addicting stuff?) or collectibles, there was a decent amount of all.

For first year con, this was a good showing, considering the enthusiastic crowd and wide variety of offerings. The admission discount if you showed your Rocket City FurMeet badge from the previous week's Con was a nice extra.

Like Japan? Anime? Both? Then head on over to http://hama-con.com/ for more info.

Thanks to HAMACON and staff for the warm hospitality and my second press credit. All greatly appreciated. :)