Since 2012, North Alabama has been home to Con Kasterborous, the first "Doctor Who" convention in North Alabama. Every year, the conventions grows into something better than the previous. This year was no different.
I have been a con attendee since the convention started. It was meant as a surprise birthday present because my birthday was the same week, but my dad quickly caved when I repeatedly asked him why I couldn't take the June ACT. Needless to say, I was ecstatic. My family did not watch "Doctor Who" at the time, only me and occasionally my sister.
Because I was told in April, I had a torturous wait till June. It was worth it because since that first convention, I have been back every year. This year was amazing and just as fun as previous years.
Last year, I tried my hand at cosplaying and this year was no different. I attempted a Clara Oswald cosplay from the episode "The Time of the Doctor".
The convention saw a new location this year, the Embassy Suites. It was a somewhat smaller venue in my opinion, but that was my only complaint for the weekend. The main room where the opening ceremonies and some of the panels had a very interesting ceiling.
The main guest for this year was Colin Baker, known for his portrayal of the sixth Doctor. Joining him was Frazer Hines, known for his portrayal of second Doctor companion, Jamie McCrimmon. Caitlin Blackwood, the young Amelia Pond, came back for a second year at Con K. Filling out the rest of roster was actress and writer Ellie Collins, comic book artist Kelly Yates, and script editor during the 7th Doctor's year, Andrew Cartmel.
I had the pleasure of attending panels featuring most of the guests. The panels hosted throughout the duration of the convention contain something for everyone. Curious about what it was like to play the Doctor? You had to stick around after the opening ceremonies and sit in on Colin Baker's panel. Wonder what it was like to be the companion to the second Doctor and the inspiration for "Outlander"? Frazer Hines' panel was a must. If you liked cosplay and writing, attending Ellie Collin's panel was necessary. There was even a panel for writers featuring some very talented writers, including Andrew Cartmel.
And if "Doctor Who" isn't your thing, there are still plenty of events and activities to enjoy. The vendors and artists don't just sell "Doctor Who" merchandise. I walked away from the convention with a SHIELD necklace and an Uncanny X-Men comic book. Authors come to promote and sell their books, and artists come to show off their pieces.
This convention is full of the nicest people in the world. From the staff to the guests to the attendees, everybody is so incredibly kind and supportive. The concept of "southern hospitality" is truly embodied here, and I am always at ease when I am at the convention. For someone like me who has anxiety, this is truly amazing. And the feeling of community doesn't just stop when the con the does, it goes on all year-round on the Facebook page.
As always, the Con K staff outdid themselves once more and I look forward to next year, so join me and other Whovians next year in Huntsville, AL.
Photos courtesy of Kirby Bartlett-Sloan and Michael Sylvester.
