We are sure many of you remember the beloved local comic character Mr Kiasu, and he’s now back with a new comic book and you can even get a limited edition toy figure of him and his cute dog Ah Kow! Look our for it at this year’s Singapore Toy, Game & Comic Conventions (STGCC). And since it’s the 10th Anniversary edition this year, expect an even bigger and more exciting event. Here are some of the highlights:
Catch the return of Singapore’s favourite cultural icon, Mr Kiasu at STGCC with the launch of a brand new comic book – Mr Kiasu Everything Also Like Real by Singaporean comic artist Johnny Lau. In conjunction with the launch, there will also be a specially-designed toy figure set available in limited quantities. You can also meet Johnny Lau to get his autograph!
The most iconic ship from the Star Wars universe is undoubtedly the Millenium Falcon, piloted by everyone’s favourite rogue smuggler Han Solo and his furry pal Chewbacca. Ever wondered what it would be like to be inside the Millennium Falcon? You can with a life-sized fan-built replica. Also, don’t forget to catch Rey’s Speeder from Star Wars: The Force Awakens – try to spot film director J.J Abram’s signature!
STGCC has always brought in big names in comics, and this year is no different. Expect a star-studded guest line-up including famous creators from the US: Comic book writer and illustrator Frank Cho (pictured above), comic book writer and artist David Mack, writer Arthur Adams, comic book illustrator Joyce Chin, James C. Mulligan, one of Disney’s top selling artists, and Marvel Comics editor and talent scout, C.B. Cebulski.
A top fan-favourite of STGCC is illustrator and toy creator Simone Legno, whose cute and colourful Tokidoki line has been charming fans both young and old here since early editions of the convention. This year, Tokidoki will collaborate with another popular toy property, BE@RBRICK to release BE@RBRICK Adios – a limited edition collectible to commemorate the 10th anniversary of STGCC. We are quite sure there will be long queues for this!
Daruma is a small and round traditional Japanese doll which is said to bring good luck and success to its owner. It is now updated as an art toy collectible called Daruma Club collectibles by Tamashii Nations. This year, a special never-before-seen exhibition featuring customised Darumas by artists around the world will be held at STGCC. Look out also for an eye-catching life-sized Daruma, standing at approximately 1.2 meters, and featuring a uniquely Singapore design done specially for STGCC.
This Singaporean comic artist did us proud when he won not just one, but three Eisner Awards (the Oscar equivalent of the comic world) this year. Catch Sonny at his booth and if you have not yet read his award-winning work, The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye, do yourself a favour and get it… and be sure to get his autograph too!
What’s a comic convention without cosplayers? Other than our local cosplayers (you can expect many to be there!), you’ll be able to meet famous international cosplay stars who have a legion of fans, like professional stuntman and model Leon Chiro from Italy (pictured), Taiwanese cosplayer Shimo, Iori Moe from Japan and Siu Tao from Hong Kong. Grab them for a selfie at their appearances!
Singapore is one of the stops in the prestigious Global Championships of Cosplay – a first of its kind platform that serves to unite the cosplay community and elevate the best cosplayers from around the world. Be sure to catch the exhilarating finals where cosplayers vie for the top spot with their best costumes. Be sure to also catch the kids’ cosplay parade where the little ones show off their talents too.
Japanese pop music fans can look forward to beloved Japanese dance vocal groups Color Pointe and Tokyo CLEAR’S making an appearance at STGCC, along with composer Yunomi feat. nicamoq and DJ MarGenal.
The 10-day Star Wars: Experience the Force Singapore festival culminates with an immersive experience at STGCC, where an entire zone has been specially dedicated to Star Wars. Of course, expect lots of Star Wars cosplayers to show up, including Singapore’s most famous Star Wars costuming group, 501st Legion.
Singapore Toy, Game & Comic Conventions (STGCC) is from September 9 to 10, 10 am to 8 pm, at Sands Expo & Convention Center, Level B2, Halls E & F, Marina Bay Sands. Visit www.singaporetgcc.com for more information.
Text: Sean Tan / Photos: STGCC
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