PUSCIFER RELEASE “IMPETUOUS” FROM FORTHCOMING ALBUM, NORMAL ISN’T (FEBRUARY 6, PUSCIFER ENTERTAINMENT/ALCHEMY RECORDINGS/BMG)
PRE-ORDER: https://Puscifer.lnk.to/NormalIsnt

VISUALIZER PREVIEWS FORTHCOMING PUSCIFER COMIC BOOK SERIES: “TALES FROM THE PUSCIVERSE”

“Don’t Lead, Move, or Follow. Let’s Just Dance.”

Kicking off the new year, Puscifer release “ImpetuoUs,” a third and final preview of the band’s highly-anticipated album, Normal Isn’t, arriving Feb. 6 via Puscifer Entertainment/Alchemy Recordings/BMG.

“I’m looking forward to hearing where this song takes people,” Maynard James Keenan says. “As the writers, we forget that in a way, we are carpenters and that we’ve been with this song since it was a pile of lumber. Our Perspective may differ from the final occupant of this space we’ve constructed. Shelter, Bridge or Gallows, Coffin? Curious to find out.”

The accompanying visualizer offers a first look at the Puscifer comic book series, “Tales From The Pusciverse.” The debut issue spotlights the character Bellendia Black, originally introduced in the “Pendulum” video. Additional details about the series, launching in tandem with Normal Isn’t, will be announced soon.

Puscifer has previously released two tracks from the 11-song album: “Self Evident,” a song that Stereogum called “gnarly” while noting Keenan and Carina Round “operatically growl” on the four-minute outing, and “Pendulum,” a nod to the post-punk underground of the 1980s that Consequence said sounds like the “lovechild of Bauhaus and Sisters of Mercy.”

Written and recorded across Arizona, Los Angeles, and on the road during last year’s Sessanta tour, the album blends the dark electronics and sharp humor Puscifer is known for with a more spontaneous creative process. “From the outset, we had discussed an element of rawness and edge, which guitar brings,” shares Mat Mitchell, who co-produced the album. “We got rid of the guard rails and made the music more aggressive.”

“Normal Isn’t reflects this time we are living in,” Keenan adds. “As storytellers and artists, our job is to observe, interpret, and report. We take in our environment and share what we see, and what we see around us does not appear normal. Not by a long shot.”

Album guests include Greg Edwards (bass), Gunnar Olsen (drums), and Sarah Jones (drums) with guests Tony Levin (bass on “Normal Isn’t” and “Seven One”), Danny Carey (drums on “Seven One”) and Mr. Ian Ross (father of Atticus Ross, who narrates “Seven One”).

Normal Isn’t is available now for pre-order and pre-saves (https://Puscifer.lnk.to/NormalIsnt), including multiple limited-edition vinyl variants: standard black, indie retail orange swirl, a Zia Records tan smoke exclusive, and a Puscifer.com-only black ice and clear with black splatter. The album is also available on CD, cassette, and digitally.

Normal Isn’t cover featuring an Andrea Kowch painting

Normal Isn’t tracklisting:

1. Thrust
2. Normal Isn’t
3. Bad Wolf
4. Self Evident
5. A Public Stoning
6. The Quiet Parts
7. Mantastic
8. Pendulum
9. ImpetuoUs
10. Seven One
11. The Algorithm (Sessanta Live Mix)

Puscifer kick off their North American tour on March 20 with stops at New York’s Terminal 5, The Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, and the famed Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Tickets and VIP packages are on-sale now via Puscifer.com.

Normal Isn’t North American tour dates:

March 20 Las Vegas, NV The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
March 21 Phoenix, AZ Arizona Financial Theatre
March 24 Austin, TX Bass Concert Hall
March 25 Dallas, TX Music Hall at Fair Park
March 27 Nashville, TN The Pinnacle
March 28 Atlanta, GA Coca-Cola Roxy
March 31 Asheville, NC Thomas Wolfe Auditorium
April 1 Durham, NC DPAC – Durham Performing Arts Center
April 3 Bethlehem, PA Wind Creek Event Center
April 4 Boston, MA Boch Center – Wang Theatre
April 7 New York, NY Terminal 5
April 8 Hershey, PA Hershey Theatre
April 10 Mashantucket, CT Premier Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino
April 11 Atlantic City, NJ Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Resort
April 15 Niagara Falls, ON OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino
April 16 Akron, OH Akron Civic Theatre
April 18 Detroit, MI Fox Theatre
April 19 Cincinnati, OH Taft Theatre
April 21 Louisville, KY The Louisville Palace
April 23 Indianapolis, IN Murat Theatre
April 25 Chicago, IL The Chicago Theatre
April 26 Milwaukee, WI Landmark Credit Union Live
April 28 Madison, WI The Sylvee
April 30 St. Louis, MO The Factory
May 1 Kansas City, MO The Midland Theatre
May 3 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre
May 5 Salt Lake City, UT Maverik Center
May 8 Portland, OR Theater of the Clouds
May 9 Seattle, WA WAMU Theater
May 11 San Francisco, CA Golden Gate Theatre
May 13 San Diego, CA San Diego Civic Theatre
May 14 Los Angeles, CA The Greek Theatre

• BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
• Music Hall
• Kansas City, Missouri

An incredible experience the entire family can enjoy, the fantastic Broadway touring production of “Beauty and the Beast” at the Music Hall in downtown Kansas City is nothing short of magical. From superb dance sequences to impeccable singing by the lead Kyra Belle Johnson, the show on opening night delivered everything you could want from a musical. Inspired by the 1991 Oscar-nominated animation and the 2017 Oscar-nominated live action version, which were based upon the original, 18^th century tale by French novelist, Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve (1685-1755), “Beauty and the Beast” takes on a journey that begins with a curse.

A selfish prince refuses to grant shelter to an elderly beggar woman after she offers an enchanted rose for her stay. An enchantress in disguise, she teaches the prince a lesson in humility by transforming him into a hideous beast and his entire staff in household objects. If he does not find true love by the time the last petal falls from the rose, then he will live as a beast for all time while his staff will become permanent house fixtures.

Time passes and in a nearby village, Belle (Johnson), the daughter of an eccentric inventor (Kevin Ligon), dreams of what life is like beyond her home by delving into every book she can find. Her beauty gains the unwanted attention of the arrogant Gaston (Stephen Mark Lukas), who wants to make her his wife…and he won’t take no for answer. When Belle later rescues her father from the Beast (Fergie L. Philippe), and the sparks eventually begin to fly, it is Gaston who seeks out a violent confrontation with what he views as a foul creature.

“Beauty and the Beast” is punctuated by creative set and costume designs that lend a certain bedazzlement to the overall performances. Johnson’s powerful voice hits every note with sheer perfection. She shares tangible, onstage chemistry with Philippe, whose vocal talents are matched by his terrific comedic timing. Speaking of comedy, Danny Gardner as the candlestick Lumiere is nothing less than a scene stealer. On opening night, he brought the house down with a rousing rendition of “Be Our Guest”. The other cast member of note was Lukas whose presence on state was nothing less than larger than life. Overall, I cannot remember a performance where so many scenes were met with such raucous, near-standing ovation receptions. It is truly must-see theater.

“Beauty and the Beast” will run through November 2^nd at the Kansas City Music Hall, located at 301 W 13^th St. in Kansas City, Missouri.  For ticket information, click HERE..

• THE BOOK OF MORMON
• Music Hall
• Kansas City, Missouri

To borrow a phrase….” Now that’s funny, I don’t care who you are”

I’m not sure why the satire of :The Book of Mormon” strikes me as so hilariously, but apologetically, it does.   I have always had a lure to the irreverent side of comedy….as a kid I bought every copy of Mad and Cracked magazine, George Carlin or Richard Pryor records, I would relate excerpts to my mother, who would rarely find the same level of amusement as I, claiming those things as not funny and a waste of my paper route money.

“The Book of Mormon” came to the world from the guys behind South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, with Robert Lopez, co-creator of Avenue Q with a premier in March of 2011 on Broadway,

The musical comedy tells the story of two mis-matched Mormon Missionaries and their assignment to go to Uganda.   The show begins setting the background for each one.  Elder Price (Sam McLellan) and Elder Cunnigham (Diego Enrico).  Their introduction to the Ugandan village, and the already in place group of Missionaries who have so far failed to produce any conversions gets everything rolling.  The entire cast was excellent in their acting, singing and dance numbers. Charity Arianna (Nabulungi) and Shariq Hicks (The General – BFN) led the supporting cast of villagers and ne’re-do-wells.

If you have any back knowledge of the Mormon story you can really enjoy the satire of the lyrics of the musical numbers like the opening “Hello”, or “I Believe”,  the best line is “ I believe, that the Garden of Eden was in Jackson County Missouri”, when you watching the show in Jackson County Missouri, that receives a rousing rise of laughter and cheers.

I’ve attended a performance of “The Book of Mormon” before, and this time I enjoyed it even more.  Knowing when certain scenes were coming only made them better by being able to really pay attention to the level of the production presentation (Fantastic !) and the characters’ development from introduction to the finale.    My wife attended with me this time, and could not stop laughing, as she put it…at all the inappropriate dialog and situations, and for a couple of hours, we were both giggling along like a couple of 14-year-old high schoolers.

On a scale of zero to five, “The Book of Mormon” receives ★★★★

• LIFE OF PI
• Starlight Theater
• Kansas City, Missouri

As the last show of Starlight Theatre’s Broadway season, “Life of Pi,” which is playing through Sunday, ends summer with a tragic, yet magical journey across the vast Pacific Ocean. Filled with wonderful imagery, masterful puppetry, and a talented cast, “Life of Pi” is a production that is perhaps once of the most memorable to grace the Starlight stage.

Based upon the 2001 best-selling novel by Canadian author Yann Martel and the 2012 Oscar-nominated film adaptation by director Ang Lee, “Life of Pi” begins in India during the late 1970s. Political unrest forces the Patel family to make the difficult decision to leave their homeland for a better life in Canada where they hope to restart their zoo. Their plan goes tragically wrong when the cargo ship they are on sinks during a bad storm in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

Over 200 days later, an epic story of survival is told at a hospital in Mexico through the eyes of 16-year-old Pi Patel (Taha Mandviwala). Stranded on a lifeboat with four other survivors – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a 450-pound Royal Bengal tiger named Richard Parker – Pi recounts the trials and tribulations of being on the open ocean for so long as he continually sought out divine guidance. However, the question is whether the animals in his story were real.

Mandviwala is just as captivating as the puppetry and set that surrounds him. While his character can be a little annoying at times, Mandviwala pulls the audience with a performance that reminds us just how indomitable the human spirit can be in the face of great adversity. His choreography with the elaborate puppets is seamless throughout as he deftly balances his character’s sanity and delirium.

The set design that represents the ship is a little confusing, but it works, nonetheless, while the lighting certainly helps set the tone and mood of each scene. All in all, “Life of Pi” is a Broadway production that should not be missed during its time in KC.

 For ticket information on upcoming shows on the tour, click HERE.

Stan Lee and John Romita’s THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN CLASSIC NEWSPAPER COMICS
Returns to Print For The First Time in Softcover
From Clover Press and The Library of American Comics

The Amazing Spider-Man swung into newsprint on Monday, January 3, 1977, bringing Marvel’s most popular hero from comic pages to newspapers worldwide. Through Stan Lee’s storytelling and John Romita’s masterful art, the strip delivered dramatic storylines that pitted Spidey against classic foes while introducing brand new characters, helping make Spider-Man a household name beyond the comic book stands. Now, for the first time ever in softcover, Stan Lee and John Romita’s THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN CLASSIC NEWSPAPER COMICS will return to print as a part of Clover Press’s spectacular new line of deluxe slipcase editions. The Kickstarter campaign is now live.

“The Library of American Comics remastered and collected the strip in a series of hardcover collections—but so many of them are out of print, making the collection highly sought after and almost impossible for your average comics lover to get their hands on,” said Clover Publisher Hank Kanalz. ”Now, Clover Press and The Library of American Comics are bringing the collections back to print in an affordable softcover format! We’re collecting the strip strictly by year, reprinting each installment from January 1 to December 31. We can’t wait to help get these iconic comic strips into the hands of Spidey lovers everywhere!”

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN CLASSIC NEWSPAPER COMICS campaign features for volumes, with strips from the years 1977, 1978, 1979, and 1980. Each volume will measure 11″ x 8.5″ in a horizontal format and slide into a vertical slipcase, designed for protection and easy shelving. The first offering will collect the strip from the years 1977 to 1980. Backing this Kickstarter campaign will allow readers to get all four volumes in one bundle. The campaign will also include extras such as a puzzle, stickers, lithographs, and more.

To visit the campaign for THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN CLASSIC NEWSPAPER COMICS, head to Kickstarter. For updates, follow Clover Press on Instagram, X, Bluesky and Facebook. You can subscribe to the Clover press newsletter here.

PHOTOS BY VALENTINO CAPONE

It has been one heck of a summer.  With the return of Jaws to the big screen this weekend, I felt the need to take a look back at the 50^th Anniversary Celebration, which took place on Martha’s Vineyard from June 19-22.  I was not only there as a fan.  I had the amazing honor of taking part in many of the festivities.

The official Amity Homecoming Weekend kicked off on Thursday, June 19^th, when the Martha’s Vineyard Museum allowed myself and my co-hosts, Nate Jones and Jane Jones Clark, to record our long running YouTube show, “Let’s Talk JAWS Live!” in front of a sold-out audience, most importantly because it was a fundraising event for the Museum.  We were joined by such JAWS celebrities as Production Designer Joe Alves, actors Jeffrey Kramer, Tom Dunlop and Gary Springer, author Dennis Prince and special effects creator Kasey Erokhin.  Also joining the show via the Internet was actress Gigi Vorgan.  For 90 minutes, the audience had the opportunity to ask questions in an up-close and intimate setting.  What those in attendance didn’t know was that a very special guest had decided to join the show.  The crowd rose as one and burst into applause when Matt Hooper himself, Oscar winner Richard Dreyfuss, entered the room.  Taking his place in front of the room, Dreyfuss answered questions and shared stories with Alves and Kramer.  As I write this, the video of Dreyfuss’ surprise entrance has received over two million views on Tik Tok.

Friday, June 20^th, the film’s official 50^th Birthday, saw myself and Joe Alves, along with Dennis Prince, at Edgartown Books, which sponsored a book signing for Joe’s new biography as well as my own “FINATICS – 50 Years of JAWS.”  The crowd was steady for the two hours we were there, often stretching down the street in front of the bookstore.  Other authors, including Ryan Dacko (“The Book of Quint”) and Ira Marcks (“Shark Summer”) also graced the porch of the bookstore that week. 

Friday also saw two major panels at the Museum.  The first, “JAWS: A Deep Dive” was presented by Historian and JAWS expert Bow Van Riper.  Later in the day, director Guy Masterson took fans behind the scenes of the Broadway show “The Shark is Broken,” which was scheduled to make its Vineyard debut in July. 

Friday also saw the return of two classic modes of transportation to the Island.  Michael Sterling, who had created his own replica of the famed ORCA, docked it along the water in Oak Bluffs, allowing fans the opportunity to take photos of the classic ship.  On the land, fans were treated to Gabe DiSaverio’s replica of Chief Brody’s Amity PD 1974 Chevy Blazer. 

Finally, Friday also saw the beginning of the largest non-official event of the weekend:  a cast and crew meet and greet held at the Wharf Restaurant.  The event, which took place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening, was hosted by the Wharf’s longtime manager, Jeffrey Voorhees, who is better known as shark victim Alex Kintner.  As I did not attend the event I reached out to fans that had for their thoughts.  While some enjoyed the experience of having the opportunity to see so many famous Jaws celebrities in the same room, others complained about ticketing issues, the confined space – one attendee wrote “packed like sardines in a hot tin can does come to mind” – while others lamented the fact that guests promoted as appearing via the internet, most notably actor and co-screenwriter Carl Gottlieb, were “inexplicably absent.”  Still, many enjoyed the opportunity to meet a who’s who of Jaws alumni.

Saturday featured two more packed panels.  “Growing Up with Uncle Quint,” featured author Christopher Shaw Myers, the nephew of Jaws co-star Robert Shaw.  Mr. Myer’s mother, Joanna – Robert Shaw’s sister – had appeared at the 2012 JawsFest.  Also speaking that day, Wendy Benchley, the wife of Jaws author Peter Benchley.  Ms. Benchley not only shared stories from the set of the film but also highlighted her work highlighting global ocean conservation efforts.

Later that evening, fans gathered at the Winnetu Oceanside Resort for an outdoor screening of the film, accompanied by the Cape Symphony.  The show began with an appearance by Richard Dreyfuss, who addressed the crowd prior to the screening.

Sunday was the last day and the promoters of the event saved the best for last.  Panels with Joe Alves, with Dennis Prince, Hollywood makeup master Greg Nicotero, and Deputy Hendricks himself, Jeffrey Kramer, were presented to sold out audiences.  The lawn of the Martha’s Vineyard Museum took on a carnival vibe as “Reunion Day,” a joint effort between the Museum and the Vineyard Gazette Media Group, welcomed fans from literally all over the world to mingle with special guests, participate in Jaws trivia games, and get autographs from the special guests in attendance.  One such guest was Molly Scheider, the daughter of Chief Brody himself, the late Roy Scheider.  As a young man, with Roy’s permission, I had started and ran his official fan club.  It was truly an honor to meet Molly.  As we said hello I surprised her with a gift – a scrapbook of photos and articles featuring her father that I had begun collecting 50 years earlier.  Just the expression on her face told me I had given her something special, something I hope she passes on to her children.

As the sun set at the end of a perfect weekend I said goodbye to old friends, some I’d known for years and some I’d just met.  It was that kind of weekend!     

Shock Rock Superstars
GWAR
March on with 40th Anniversary Celebration
“The Return of Gor Gor Tour”
with Special Guests Helmet, The Dwarves & Blood Vulture

New Multimedia Release
‘The Return of Gor Gor’
Out July 25th via Pit Records + Z2 Comics
Pre-Order HERE

Legendary shock rockers GWAR have announced The Return of Gor Gor Tour, a devastating North American headline campaign kicking off October 18th in Salt Lake City with support from Helmet, The Dwarves, and Blood Vulture. The tour celebrates GWAR’s 40th anniversary and the return of their long-lost, crack-addicted Dinosaur, Gor Gor. The tour also supports your Lords and Masters’ forthcoming multimedia release ‘The Return of Gor Gor,’ out July 25th via Pit Records/Z2 Comics.

Blothar comments on The Return of Gor Gor Tour:

“Gor Gor demands sacrifice! The Tyrant Teen is all grown up and he wants love! Don’t look him in the eye!! The beast demands a bride! Come in your bridal finery. An ocean of chiffon to satisfy the bloodlust of the great lizard!”

Before The Return of Gor Gor Tour officially begins, GWAR will lay waste to the following cities with these live assaults:

GWAR Live:
7/24 – Richmond, VA @ Allianz Amphitheater (w/ Lamb of God, Hatebreed)
8/2 – Anchorage, AK @ Williwaw Outdoor Block Party
8/15 – Thornville, OH @ Gathering of The Juggalos*
9/17 – Detroit, MI @ Crofoot
9/18 – Pittsburgh, PA @ The Roxian Theatre
9/19 – Cincinnati, OH @ Bogart’s
9/20 – Chicago, IL @ Riotfest*
9/21 – Cleveland, OH @ Globe Iron
10/05 – Sacramento, CA @ Aftershock @ Discovery Park*
*Festival appearances

THE RETURN OF GOR GOR TOUR
w/ Helmet, The Dwarves & Blood Vulture
10/18 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Complex
10/20 – Tempe, AZ @ Marquee Theatre
10/22 – Las Vegas, NV @ Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas
10/23 – Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
10/24 – Reno, NV @ Virginia Street Brewhouse
10/25 – Berkeley, CA @ The UC Theatre
10/26 – Bend, OR @ Midtown Ballroom
10/27 – Seattle, WA @ Showbox Sodo
10/29 – Vancouver, BC @ Vogue Theatre
10/30 – Penticton, BC @ Penticton Trade & Convention Centre
10/31 – Calgary, AB @ MacEwan Hall
11/1 – Edmonton, AB @ Fan Park @ Ice District
11/3 – Spokane, WA @ Knitting Factory
11/5 – Denver, CO @ Summit
11/6 – Lincoln, NE @ Bourbon Theatre
11/8 – San Antonio, TX @ Vibes Event Center
11/9 – Dallas, TX @ House of Blues
11/11 – Nashville, TN @ Marathon Music Works
11/12 – Greensboro, NC @ Piedmont Hall
11/13 – Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade
11/15 – Orlando, FL @ Warped Tour*
11/16 – Tampa, FL @ The Ritz Ybor
11/18 – Baltimore, MD @ Nevermore Hall
11/19 – Worcester, MA @ Palladium
11/20 – Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore
11/21 – New York, NY @ Palladium Times Square
11/22 – Norfolk, VA @ The NorVa
*Festival appearance

General on sale begins Friday, June 27th at 10am local time, with various presales starting today.

Check out a special message from GWAR “Bohab 4 Life”
Ethan Embry about The Return of Gor Gor Tour HERE

‘The Return of Gor Gor’ features three brand new GWAR songs mixed by Kurt Ballou (Converge, GodCity Studios) and four live tracks captured at The Masquerade in Atlanta, GA during GWAR’s 2024 tour, mixed by Chris Ronan Murphy. All songs were produced by GWAR and mastered by Alan Douches. The release also includes a 32-page comic detailing Gor Gor’s return, which is included with all versions. Vinyl editions boast an animated etching of Gor Gor on Side A, with a Semi-Translucent Etched Deep Purple Vinyl available exclusively at GWAR.net and Semi-Translucent Etched Green vinyl at Z2Comics.com. A Deluxe Hardback edition is also available.

Blothar comments on ‘The Return of Gor Gor’:

“The last time I saw Gor Gor he was just a wee fart dragon. He had crawled on the hood of my Kia Soul and was holding on for dear life while I drove to the store to buy Clamato. I bathed him in wiper fluid and used my wipers to knock him off my sweet ride. Next thing I know, he’s a 20-foot tall trans-species prostitute working a pickle park. Apparently, he’s all grown up and looking for revenge. This record chronicles his struggles as a young Dino-American trying to make his way in a cruel world.”

Watch the Music Video for “Lot Lizard” HERE

Watch the Music Video for “The Great Circus Train Disaster” HERE

‘The Return of Gor Gor’ Track List:
1. The Great Circus Train Disaster
2. Tyrant King
3. Lot Lizard
4. Crack In The Egg (Live)
5. The Founding Fathers (Live)
6. America Must Be Destroyed (Live)
7. Fishfuck (Live)

‘The Return of Gor Gor’ will be available in the following formats:
=> CD with 32-page comic booklet
=> LP with 32-page comic booklet and etched vinyl
=> Deluxe LP with hardcover 32-page comic and etched vinyl (D2C exclusive)
=> Standalone 32-page comic

2025 marks 40 years since the world first felt the wrath of GWAR. Since forming in Richmond, Virginia, GWAR has defiled every convention of what a band should be—creating a sprawling mythology, unleashing gallons of bodily fluids, and building a fanbase as rabid as their live shows are chaotic. What began as an underground theatrical freakshow has grown into a full-blown intergalactic empire of heavy metal madness, with landmark albums like ‘Scumdogs of the Universe,’ ‘America Must Be Destroyed,’ and ‘The Blood of Gods.’

‘The Return of Gor Gor’ marks the next chapter: a celebration of past chaos and a prophecy of future destruction. All hail your Lords and Masters. Long live GWAR.

World-Renowned artist/tattooer Paul Booth has been announced as the Tattoo Headliner for the 2025 Inkcarceration Festival which is scheduled for July 18-20th at the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, OH. Media Mikes Presents had the chance to speak with Paul recently about the upcoming appearance, his 30 plus years of tattooing and his newly released signature coffee blend “Devil’s Pact”.

Click Photo For Interview:

https://inkcarceration.com

https://www.paulboothart.com 

Tampa Bay Comic Convention is August 1-3, 2025; Tickets are on sale now at https://tampabaycomicconvention.com/ –

TAMPA BAY – May 20, 2025 – As you wish! Fans asked for him, and now Cary Elwes, the actor best known for playing Westley in The Princess Bride is coming to Tampa Bay Comic Convention (https://tampabaycomicconvention.com/) on August 1-3, 2025. 

Elwes has had a prolific film and TV career. In addition to The Princess Bride, he’s starred in Robin Hood: Men in Tights, the Saw series, Glory, Days of Thunder, Hot Shots!, Twister, Kiss the Girls, Liar Liar, and Mission Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One. His TV roles include The X-Files, Seinfeld, Psych, Stranger Things, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Over the course of his career, he’s been nominated for a Screen Actors Guild Award and two Satellite Awards. In 2014, he published his memoir on The Princess Bride called As You Wish. 

“Cary has starred in some of the biggest and most recognizable movies and is always one of the most requested guests we get and a fan favorite wherever he goes,” said Dan Farr, Tampa Bay Comic Convention Show Producer. “The Princess Bride has some of the most memorable quotes such as ‘Inconceivable!’ and ‘As you wish’ that are still quoted nearly 40 years after the movie came out and fans love to hear Cary say these quotes and the behind-the-scenes stories about filming The Princess Bride and the other movies and TV shows he’s been a part of.”

Tampa Bay Convention Center will feature the best in geek and pop culture, including movies, TV shows from network TV, streaming services and other online sources, cosplay, gaming, books, comic creators, artists, vendors and many more. Attendees can meet all their favorite celebrities, artists, authors and comic creators for pictures, autographs and panels where they can hear about their careers and current projects.

Tampa Bay Comic Convention has already announced a number of fan-favorite celebrity guests, including Chris Bartlett, John Ryhs Davies, Neil Newbon, Devora Wilde, Jennifer English, Aliona Baranova, Lou Ferrigno, Steve Burns, Susan Eisenberg, Nolan North, Cristina Vee, Doug Jones, Shameik Moore, Joey Fatone, Steven John Ward, Lou Diamond Phillips, Kim Rhodes, Abby Trott, Grey Delisle, Keith David, Kari Wahlgren, A.J. Beckles, David Mantranga, Mallorie Rodak, Bryce Papenbrook, Marty Grabstein, Greg Baldwin, Nicolas Roye, Linda Larkin and Landon McDonald.

More guests will be announced leading up to the convention in August, including guests from fan-favorite fandoms such as Marvel, DC, Disney, Star Wars, 90s Sitcoms, Cartoons, and many more. Indiana Comic Convention will also feature the best in geek and pop culture, including movies, TV shows, cosplay, gaming, books, comic creators, artists, and vendors.

To stay current on Tampa Bay Comic Convention 2025, visit the website, Tampa Bay Comic Convention Social Media, and subscribe to the Tampa Bay Comic Convention Newsletter for all the latest Tampa Bay Comic Convention 2025 Promotions and Guest Announcements.

For more information about Tampa Bay Comic Convention 2025 or to purchase tickets now, visit  https://tampabaycomicconvention.com/. 

ABOUT TAMPA BAY COMIC CONVENTION:

Tampa Bay Comic Convention is a comic pop culture convention located in Tampa, Florida. Tampa Bay Comic Convention is Tampa’s largest, true comic convention. Featured are exhibitors that cater to a wide-spectrum of interests including comic books, magazines, toys, games, Star Wars, Star Trek, anime, manga, cosplay, artwork, sketches and apparel. In addition, a roster of comic industry professionals, and comicdom-related celebrities are in attendance for attendees to meet and greet. As admission is kept reasonable for adults and FREE for children 10 and under, the Tampa Bay Comic Convention is a family-friendly convention. Find out more at: https://tampabaycomicconvention.com/.

THE AYKROYD FAMILY AND JUDY BELUSHI’S ESTATE ARE PASSING THE BRIEFCASE OF BLUES TO THE NEXT GENERATION WITH ANNOUNCEMENT OF FIRST GRAPHIC NOVEL VIA Z2

FEATURING A FOREWORD BY DAN AYKROYD

The beloved Blues Brothers universe will come roaring back to life over the next few years with forays into television, film, live events, music and much more with the first IP offering being a brand new original Graphic Novel: THE BLUES BROTHERS: THE ESCAPE OF JOLIET JAKE. Written by Stella Aykroyd, Luke Pisano and James Werner with artist Felipe Sobriero, The Blues Brothers: The Escape of Joliet Jake is both a love letter and sequel to the original Blues Brothers film. With editorial oversight by Dan Aykroyd, the utmost care has been taken to ensure this new chapter is true to the classic skits, legendary film, and iconic albums. The result is a wild and entertaining ride for both the longtime fans, and those new to the world of Jake and Elwood Blues. This project was originally conceived with the architect of The Blues Brothers, Judy Belushi Pisano, who sadly passed away during this book’s production.

Luke Pisano shares “The Blues Brothers weren’t just a SNL act or movie, they were real musicians, in awe of the legends who came before them. This book is a continuation of that labor of love. This book is dedicated to my mother, Judy Belushi Pisano – the widow of John Belushi and the fierce, loving steward of the Blues Brothers legacy for over 40 years. After John’s passing, she didn’t just preserve the story—she expanded it. With the team at Z2, and with the talents of Stella and James, we finally found the right partners to make that dream turn reality. I am proud—and humbled—to continue her work in expanding this world of fun, music, and mischievousness.”

“It makes complete sense to me that the new generation of Blues Brothers will begin in comic book form, where the possibilities for destroying police cars is infinite, physics have no bounds, and the potential for jam partners is off the charts.” James Werner points out. “The Blues Brothers universe is full of music and absurdity. Jake and Elwood are FINALLY reuniting , and I am forever grateful that Luke and Stella have asked me to join the band.”

Stella Aykroyd adds “Elwood and Jake are precious to me, in fact, one of them is actually my Dad. I’ve helped him sharpie ELWOOD onto his knuckles before Blues Brothers shows with ‘Brother Zee’, I’ve walked behind him as he’s made his way through a sea of fans dressed as Elwood and Jake all over the world and I’ve been his co-pilot on the road, where he’s explained to me the proper way to T-bone a car. Now, with Elwood, and the one and only ‘Sister Zee’, Judy Belushi’s blessing, Luke, James, and I take the wheel and swerve into the endless possibilities that Z2, Felipe Sobreiro, and the comic book world provide for Jake and Elwood. In many ways the antics we’ve seen from the Blues Brothers have always been perfectly suited for the comic strip; flying cars, supernatural nuns, dusting an entire apartment building worth of bricks off your shoulders, and now Felipe Sobreiro’s illustrations bring them to life once again. Our development process was guided and inspired by the stories and real life occurrences from the lives of Judy, John, and Dan and their process of conception of the Blues Brothers and using it not only for easter eggs but for plot points. I am so excited to share this whole new story with all our music loving anarchists.”

Lastly, Z2 President, Josh Bernstein adds “The Blues Brothers are comedy, pop-culture and musical royalty. Z2 is proud to expand the creative universe built by Dan Akyroyd, John and Judy Belushi-Pisano and welcome new band members: Luke, Stella and James. When you mix their story with the art of Brazilian Blues Brother, Felipe Sobreiro, fans of all ages will be delighted with the epic return of Jake & Elwood Blues. (We apologize in advance to the fine men and women of the Chicago Police Department.)”

THE BLUES BROTHERS: THE SCAPE OF JOLIET JAKE will be available for pre-order via Amazon, Barnes and Noble, as well as many other fine independent book, comic, and record stores.

Bank of America Broadway at The Straz
APR 29 – MAY 4, 2025

Great Scott! BACK TO THE FUTURE, the beloved, the Broadway musical, which premiered back in 2021 at the West End in London has its destination set for Tampa in this month. I had the pleasure of seeing this musical in London back in 2022 and 2023 and also on opening date on Broadway in 2024. I would have to say that it is one of my favorite musicals in the past few years. Still regardless having seen this show three times previously, The Straz Center delivered the goods for this touring production. The sets were fantastic, the sound was perfect and the acting was on par with previous stage adaptations. And most important the car flies (sort of)! This was an amazing experience and I highly recommend getting tickets while you still can to catch this amazing show at the Straz Center in Tampa, FL.

Winner of the 2022 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, four WhatsOnStage Awards, including Best New Musical, and the Broadway World Award for Best New Musical, BACK TO THE FUTURE: THE MUSICAL is adapted for the stage by the iconic film’s creators Bob Gale (Back to the Future trilogy) and Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump) and directed by the Tony Award®-winner John Rando with original music by multi-Grammy® winners Alan Silvestri (Avengers: Endgame) and Glen Ballard (Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror”), alongside hit songs from the movie including “The Power of Love,” “Johnny B. Goode,” “Earth Angel” and “Back in Time.”

Having seen BACK TO THE FUTURE: THE MUSICAL previously with original cast Olly Dobson, who played Marty McFly and Roger Bart, who perfectly became Doc Brown it was setting the bar high for Tampa, FL. Lucas Hallauer, who plays Marty honestly did a fantastic job. Haven seen the show three times with three different Martys, he fit right up there with the best of them. Don Stephenson, who plays Doc also delivered the good. My favorite is still Roger Bart but the guy originated the role so its hard to beat the best. Don did a solid job and hit all the right notes. Notable performances were Cartreze Tucker, who plays Goldie Wilson and Marvin Berry, he sang his heart out and delivered a fun performance. Also I thought that Ethan Rogers was a really solid Biff Tannen. He has the looks and the chops to go along with the role. Honestly highly recommend this touring cast overall.

After seeing this show in London and New York, I was a bit concerned about how they would do a few of the shows key moments and depict the sets. Well let me tell you we were blown away but the sets. They did an amazing job replicating taking you back to Hill Valley. And if you have seen the show you are probably wondering if the car flies…and it does in Tampa, FL. Not fully like in London and New York but it does what it can for a touring production and honestly let the audience in awe and us quite impressed with how things were handled. So I say, get out to Tampa, FL for this run of BACK TO THE FUTURE: THE MUSICAL before time runs out because you don’t want to miss this show!!

• PARADE
• Music Hall, Kansas City, Missouri
• February 4, 2025

People often assume that musicals simply provide audiences an escape from the misery and gloom of the world outside the theater, but Parade is an example of a play that wrestles with a thorny incident in 1913 Atlanta that still haunts our nation.

Although Parade, first hit stages in 1998, it feels curiously more urgent in the current touring revival, which played at the Muriel Kaufman on January 28, felt less like a period drama and more like a stirring account of how the issues that played America 112 years ago are still with us.

Having a sincere recorded introduction from U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock, who now represents Georgia, makes the play seem anything but a fossil. The book by Alfred Uhry (Driving Miss Daisy) and songs by Jason Robert Brown (The Bridges of Madison County) recount the murder of a 13-year-old pencil factory worker named Mary Phagan (Olivia Goosman). One of the few people to see her on the day she was killed was a manager named Leo Frank (Max Chernin).

Frank was working when Atlanta residents were celebrating Confederate Memorial Day, and the Texas native had moved there from New York. Being a Jew also made him seem suspicious to his neighbors. 

Robert Knight and Ethan Riordan in the National Tour of PARADE, photo by Joan Marc

Parade recounts Frank’s trial and the sensational coverage news coverage that followed. While Frank was convicted, much of the evidence against him was circumstantial and seemed to be based on bad vibes and prejudice instead of hard evidence. Eventually, the governor commuted his sentence from death to life in prison, but Phagan’s murder wound up metastasizing into something far more horrific.

While happy endings aren’t going to happen in this situation, the current touring production of Parade is still consistently engrossing. It unfolds in an almost cinematic manner with dates and images of the real participants projected on the stage and lightning fast transitions between locales.

Chernin is terrific as Leo demonstrating both a stellar singing voice and an outsider persona that makes the ill-starred manager inherently sympathetic. Talia Suskauer is equally solid as Leo’s determined wife Lucille. Her quest to get Leo acquitted even after the trial gives the story a crucial momentum. 

Even though you could look up the people and events in Wikipedia, Parade moves like a rocket and is buoyed by a dark humor that never feels like a history lesson. Because this is a musical, having the yellow journalists recount the crime with copious embellishments, seems even more fulsome and grandiose. Similarly, having the questionable police investigations sung instead of spoken makes that toxic folly feel even more real. 

It’s easy to tell the tale is personal for Uhry because his great uncle owned the factory where the murder took place. The fact that he could fit a love story into the tale of a hate crime is remarkable. It’s little wonder that the 2023 revival won a Tony and that new tour is so rewarding.

Happy 21st Birthday, The Walking Dead!
Skybound & Image Debut Lineup of The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 Variant Covers

The Comic’s Historic 100th Issue Celebrated with Ten Covers, Skybound Store Exclusives

In celebration of the landmark comic series’ 21st anniversary today, Skybound and Image Comics revealed a stacked lineup of variant covers for The Walking Dead Deluxe, including Skybound.com exclusives. The covers for the monumental 100th issue will hit comic book shops on November 6, 2024.

These all-new covers will appear as variants to The Walking Dead Deluxe #100, with the issue presented in full color format for the first time from writer/creator Robert Kirkman, artist Charlie Adlard, and colorist Dave McCaig. Fans will also receive a new look at the worldwide pop culture phenomenon with pinups and exclusive “Cutting Room Floor” commentary by Kirkman, celebrating the secret history of the series.

In addition to the main cover by Adlard & McCaig and its wraparound variant, The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 will be released with seven additional covers by comics talent David Finch, Mattia De Iulis, Julian Totino Tedesco, Arthur Adams, Yasmine Putri, Simon Bisley, and Derek Hunter, as well as a blank sketch cover.

The “Something to Fear” arc continues here! This extra-sized chapter contains one of the darkest moments in Rick Grimes’ life, and one of the most violent and brutal things to happen within the pages of this series—finally in color!

“How many comic book series have had the honor of reaching issue 100? Now tell me how many have had the fortune to do that twice!” Said creator, Robert Kirkman. “Holy moly, I’m just blown away by the level of support our fans have gifted us with year after year. What an incredible ride this continues to be. If you’re not experiencing this deluxe presentation of the series, featuring glorious color from the master Dave McCaig, you’re really missing out.”

Also on November 6, Skybound will release an exclusive The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 variant cover that is an homage to the original Bloody Lucille Skybound Exclusive by series artist Charlie Adlard, released in 2012 (SRP: $30.00). The cover features a red spot foil logo and spot gloss on the bloodied Lucille. Preorders are open now on the Skybound store, and purchases are limited to two per order.

Preorders are also open now on Skybound.com for The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 Yesterday’s Slabs Cards (SRP: $20.00). Each Slabs card features one of the nine new TWDD #100 covers, and one in ten Slabs cards will be autographed by Charlie Adlard.

On October 8, 2003, The Walking Dead #1 debuted in comic shops and began a historic run from creator Robert Kirkman that would change the face of pop culture. For nearly sixteen years, The Walking Dead rewrote the rules of comic book storytelling, including its surprise ending at issue #193, and has since expanded to include special one-shots, graphic novels, video games and an unprecedented hit television franchise on the AMC network. The franchise continues to grow in new directions, from the Clementine YA graphic novels by superstar Tillie Walden to dynamic interactive experiences like The Walking Dead: The Last Mile and further expansion of AMC’s The Walking Dead universe.

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 (Lunar Codes Below | SRP: $4.99) will be available comic book shops and digital platforms including Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, and Google Play.

The full list of covers is below:

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR A by David Finch (Lunar Code: 0924IM293)
The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR B by Charlie Adlard & Dave McCaig (Lunar Code: 0924IM294)
The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR C (Connecting) by Mattia De Iulis (Lunar Code: 0924IM295)
The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR D by Julian Totino Tedesco (Lunar Code: 0924IM296)
The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR E by Arthur Adams & Dave McCaig (Lunar Code: 0924IM297)
The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR F (Wraparound) by Charlie Adlard & Dave McCaig (Lunar Code: 0924IM298)
The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR G by Yasmine Putri (Lunar Code: 0924IM299)
The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR H by Simon Bisley (Lunar Code: 0924IM300)
The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR I by Derek Hunter (Lunar Code: 0924IM301)
The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR J (Blank Sketch Cover) (Lunar Code: 0924IM302)

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR A by David Finch

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR B by Charlie Adlard & Dave McCaig

The Walking Dead Deluxe #99 CVR C by Mattia De Iulis

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR D by Julian Totino Tedesco

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR E by Arthur Adams & Dave McCaig

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR F (Wraparound) by Charlie Adlard & Dave McCaig

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR G by Yasmine Putri

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR H by Simon Bisley

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR I by Derek Hunter

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 CVR J (Blank Sketch Cover)

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 Bloody Lucille Skybound Exclusive (Foil) by Charlie Adlard

The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 Slabs Cards

• PETER PAN
• Starlight Theater, Kansas City, Missouri
• September 17, 2024

“Peter Pan” needed more fairy dust

As the last show of Starlight Theatre’s Broadway season, “Peter Pan,” which is playing through Sunday, tries to take us on magical journey with a few pinches of fairy dust and some loud crowing. While the talented cast does their best to make it an unforgettable experience, “Peter Pan” the musical falls a little short of taking us back to Neverland.

It’s hard to believe how old the story is, but “Peter Pan” was first conceived as a play in 1904 by Scottish novelist and playwright, Sir James Matthew Barrie (1860-1937). In 1911, Barrie adapted it into novel form with the title “Peter and Wendy.” It was adapted as a musical several times including in 1950 with music and lyrics by legendary conductor, Leonard Bernstein. However, it was the 1954 Broadway adaptation with actress Mary Martin playing the title role that put it into the stratosphere, resulting in multiple television broadcasts which enabled generations across the country to see it.

The story of “Peter Pan” is well-documented so there is not a lot of need to delve into the storyline’s details. What is more important is a discussion of the touring production itself. On the plus side, Nolan Almeida as the title character and Hawa Kamara as Wendy displayed amazing vocals throughout the entire opening night performance. Cody Garcia as Captain Hook almost stole the show as the dastardly pirate villain. His red and gold costume also equally stood out and was perhaps the best of the production.

The dance sequences were largely in sync and some special effects, most notably a scene involving Pan interacting with his shadow, were captivating. Unfortunately, the set design was less than inspirational with little to no wow factor. The same was true for the costumes. The story itself was bland even though there are attempts to modernize some of the dialogue, which doesn’t suit the story all that well. While the cast did their best, “Peter Pan” was less than magical and needed a whole lot more fairy dust.

“Peter Pan” will run through September 22 at Starlight Theatre in Kansas City.  For ticket information, CLICK HERE.

• COME FROM AWAY
• Starlight Theater – Kansas City, Missouri
• August 6, 2024

In “A Streetcar Named Desire,” Blanche Dubois famously stated, “ I have always depended on the kindness of strangers.”   Now imagine there are 7,000 Blanche’s in a small Newfoundland town and you have the Tony nominated musical “Come From Away.”

Gander.  A small town whose airport was once one of the world’s busiest.  However, with the invention of newer and longer distance planes, it’s usually pretty quiet on Tuesday afternoons.  But today, September 11, 2001, is not an ordinary Tuesday.  Following the terrorist attacks in New York City, Washington D.C. and Pennsylvania, the government has closed all airspace.  My current job at the time required me to drive directly past Kansas City International Airport and I remember thinking to myself how odd it was not to see, or hear, a plane taking off or landing overhead.  Over two dozen planes are diverted to Gander and, curing the course of the show, we meet the passengers and the townspeople on whose kindness they will depend.

Nominated for seven Tony awards, “Come From Away” is an uplifting story about the human spirit and the ability for strangers to come together.  We are introduced to several of the townspeople, including the Mayor, a worker at the local animal shelter and a news reporter on her first day on the job.  It’s business as usual until news comes of the day’s tragedy.  As if a switch has been flicked, problems that may have seemed major only hours earlier – school is about to start and the bus drivers are on strike – pale in comparison to how to feed, house and clothe 7,000 people.  The passengers are an eclectic mix – a British businessman, an experienced pilot and a gay couple, both oddly named Kevin, are among the stranded, doing their best to stay sane while basically unsure as to what has happened.  Once the word gets around, a lot of eyes are turned towards a passenger from the Middle East, and not sympathetically.  As the days begin to build up we learn their back stories and, for some, their futures.

I had the great fortune of catching this show on Broadway in September 2021, right after the 20^th Anniversary of 9/11.  It was the time of COVID and it was eerie to stand in line, wearing a mask, waiting to show your vaccination card before you get go into the theater.  But the show was amazing, as is this production.

The cast is outstanding.  Many of the featured players portray more than one character, with only a slight change or clothing or location to help you differentiate them.  That there was never a false moment in the show, or a “hey, that’s the guy that played Bubba” moment is a true testament to the talents of the cast.

The book is very well written, with humor added when needed, never gratuitously.  Even in song the events of the day are treated respectfully.  The big difference between Broadway and this production is that there is no intermission.  Also, after the curtain call the audience was introduced to Kevin Tuerff, one of the real life “Kevins” featured in the show, who speaks to the audience and takes questions promoting his PayItForward 9.11 foundation.

Up against the juggernaut that was “Dear Evan Hansen,” the only Tony award “Come From Away” won was for it’s direction.  Almost a decade later, “Come From Away” continues to resonate with audiences while “Dear Evan Hansen” has gone the way of many similar shows that caught fire then slowly faded.  This is a show that not only entertains but informs.  Don’t miss it.

On a scale of zero to five I give “Come From Away” ★★★★★

For more information on the PayItForward 9.11 foundation, click HERE. 

“Come From Away” continues at the Starlight Theater in Kansas City through Sunday, August 11^th.  For tickets to this engagement or future shows please click HERE.