Cape Comic Con wraps up its 17th year

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – Actor Ming Chen has attended his fair share of Comic Cons, but Cape Comic Con ranks high on his list of favorites. 

“I go to Comic Cons all around the country, and I always wonder what pop culture is like,” Chen said. “Are people as nerdy as where I’m from in New Jersey? and I’m pleased to say that yes, the fandom here is pretty amazing.” 

Conventions like Cape Comic Con provide a unique opportunity for fans to meet their favorite actors and actresses, like Nakia Burrise, who is best known for her role as Tanya Sloan on Power Rangers Zeo and Power Rangers Turbo from 1995 to 1997. 

She said she had no inkling of the impact Power Rangers had until she began attending conventions more than a decade ago. 

“I started doing conventions in 2009,” she said. “I had no idea that people would remember my character because I was on the show from 1995 to ‘97. We didn’t have social media, we didn’t have Facebook, any of that, so I didn’t know what impact Power Rangers had on people until I started attending comic conventions.” 

Burrise said it is inspiring to hear the stories from people whose lives have changed for the better because of her. 

“I’ve had a lot of people of color come to me and tell me after seeing me on screen, it inspired them to go get the job that they wanted,” she said. “They knew that they could become an actor or an actress. It means a lot.” 

With dozens of vendors and all the fun one could ask for, Chen said to mark your calendars. 

“If you’ve not been to Cape Comic Con, definitely put it on your calendar for next year,” he said. “I’ve been to countless conventions. I’ve been to almost 30 this year alone, and this is one of the best ones, so if you’ve not been here, if you’re close, come by. You’re going to have a great time.” 

An official date has not been set for next year’s Cape Comic Con.