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2008 Gen Con Reportfrom Beth
First Q & A With Alan Tudyk
Alan was up for his Q&A after that and as usual was a blast answering everyone’s questions and making fun of Nathan a lot. Alan gave out prizes for everyone who asked a question, he has some photos he’d printed from his own computer that are not available anywhere, a photo of him as Pirate Steve in the stands with a whole bunch of dummy audience members. He also had a bunch of collectable cards that he was defacing in various ways and autographing for people who asked questions.
Alan had wanted to show us a special video – like the one he showed us in Melbourne last year – but couldn’t get the disk to work and said he’d see if he could sort it out for tomorrow.
Someone asked Alan what role he’d like to play if he could do anything and said he’d love to play James Bond because you’ll never see him play any kind of role where he’s a womaniser or has a gun, because the minute he picks up a gun it’s kinda funny, and mentioned the gun he had in War Stories.
Alan’s favourite line of his own from Firefly/Serenity is “Who’s flying this thing?!” but because he didn’t really listen to anyone else’s line … it was always “blah blah blah blah” so unless someone did say “blah blah blah” he didn’t really have a favourite line from another character.
Someone asked what his favourite moment was and he talked about how when Nathan Fillion was in Sydney and was asked that question Nathan responded “when wash died” so Alan’s favourite moments are from Serenity are the fight scenes between Nathan and Chewetel because he was always getting his ass kicked and the funny thing about it is that “Chewy” actually makes a lot of contact so it was fun to watch because it was some of Nathan’s best acting, because it was real, real pain on his face… hehe.
Someone asked what the rest of the cast is up to, he said he pretty much still talks to everyone but “Nathan… I try to talk to him, but it’s hard, it’s really heard, like you’re talking to a child, a really sleepy child on cough medicine, you know, with hygiene problems”.
Someone mentioned Death at a Funeral and Alan told us that it had done really well in Australia but not everywhere else. He told us he loved playing the “high” part of it he’s glad he got the nudity thing out of the way, that Uncle Alfie from the movie waited till he was in his 70s and he was glad he got his “posterior for posterity” out of the way while he was in his 30s. He said he loved filming the movie and spending time living in London.
He mentioned the TV pilot he just did which is apparently called Fourplay. He said Nathan also did a pilot for ABC and the only thing he knows is that his is a lot better than Nathan’s, not necessarily the writing, just the acting. He mentioned they might know in 3 weeks whether or not it will go ahead. He said he loves the idea of doing it in front of a live audience. He said that he came out to do the first scene and the audience was dying laughing after he said about three words and hadn’t even got to the punch line yet and the creators and Warner Bros were so excited about it and he said “I’m just so funny, I didn’t realise how good I am at this” and then at the end of the show he went out to the audience to thank people fro coming out and everyone starts saying, I’m a Firefly fan, I’m a Serenity fan and then realises there’s a whole section of fans there. He said it was really cool that the fans had come out to support him, especially when the shooting was delayed by a day. He also mentioned Rosie was there. There’s a video below of Alan talking about this following a mention of Death at a Funeral.
He told us a great story about working on Patch Adams and his role as one of the insane people, and how he was a lot more spastic than he might have been because he had just received a shot of adrenaline because he’d had some bad chinese food. He’d had hives the night before and his girlfriend had brought him chocolate covered pretzels, he went to work the next day and the hives were worse and he was in the makeup chair and was having trouble breathing – the paramedic came over and said you need to go to hospital immediately, your windpipe is closing, whatever you do don’t eat chocolate or drink alcohol and he said “great, that’s what I had for dinner” so they rushed him off to the hospital, gave him benadryl and the shot and then he was straight back on set… he said all that plus the 4 cups of coffee and he was out of his mind. I definitely have to watch this movie now.. I saw it years ago.
Someone asked if Alan would like to write and he said he’d like to one day and if the actors strike happens he might because he’d need something to do, and thought it’d be a lot of fun to write something with Nathan.
Second Q & A Session with Alan Tudyk
Alan’s Q&A followed and he tried again to get the video to work for us. It was a video of him while they were filming the Firefly pilot that he’d made for his parents, if it was anything like the Jaynestown one he showed in Melbourne I’m really disappointed he didn’t get it to work, but the good news is, he said it may be available on any future release of Firefly – when I brought up that they WERE releasing Firefly again he seemed to think that that wasn’t confirmed or something – odd.
Alan talked about how much he enjoyed working on Death at a Funeral and said again how well it had done in Australia and that the writers and directors and everybody were really happy about that. He also talked about being nakid for most of the movie.
Someone asked Alan what sci fi show he’d like to see a crossover episode with him so he said, “Ok, so I’m imagining that Firefly’s still on the air, that’s great, that’s working out and I’m still alive, but we have the sets and the costumes from the movie”. Then he said he’d like Tricia Helfer from Battlestar Galactica, and that he didn’t care if anyone else from BSG was on the show, the crossover could just be her. Alan also mentioned he’d seen her recently and she and Nathan and Adam and he recorded voices for a Halo 3 supplemental and it was like the last time with Nathan having all the leader lines and him having to be scared.
Alan talked about going to Pirate camp while he was working on Dodge Ball and that the hardest scene to shoot was the “one shot” at the beginning of Serenity because they had to do something like 37 takes!
He talked about how hard he fought to get the moustashe in Out of Gas and that initially he’d tried to get a full-on mullet. He laughed when he said he’d had to have a little mutany to get his moustache but some time later Tim Minear had told him how glad he was that’d Alan had pushed for it because it worked out great. He also told us that the moustache appeared again in Serenity but was cut. It was in the scene where the Operative is looking at Mal’s profile and they did shots of Alan as well, and in the pic he had the moustache!
Rosie's Creation Saturday Report After Morena’s panel was supposed to be Zoic Studios which I was looking forward to but they did not show up for some reason. After that was Yan Feldman and I am sorry I missed it but I was hungry so I went to eat with Saxon and Ewok. We were looking forward to Alan’s panel. We arrived a few minutes early so that we were able to look at the California Browncoat’s booth and took pictures with James and Lynn. Next to them was the QMX table and Geoffrey Mandel was there to sign the Blue Prints Reference Pack which was a must have for me. Then I heard, “Give a welcome to Alan Tudyk.” At that point I grabbed Saxon and in we went.
OK so I grab Saxon, literally by the arm and don’t even take a moment to say anything since my brain is just thinking we’re missing it. She knows me well enough to follow. Alan looked great. He was wearing a black t-shirt with a black leather jacket. He started by talking to us about his trip to Melbourne and how he just returned and looked online to see what we were saying and all he read was: Alan says there is a sequel, over and over again. It was the news on the internet and he is not sure how things got confused. He knows Nathan told him. He’s just not sure what part is not true. He looked really confused and embarrassed about the whole thing. Alan checked his phone and started taking questions. He was so cute. I saw he started writing as the question was being asked and I did not know what he was doing. Well after answering the question he gave the girl an autographed packet of Serenity trading cards. Honestly I cannot remember all that was said during this panel. I was laughing too hard. Alan was doing great and then he got the call from Nathan. Nathan wanted to make sure Alan wasn’t spreading any rumors and blaming Nathan. Alan said, “You did tell me.” Nathan said I did not and he said, “Say that to my face.” The really funny part was hearing Nathan behind the curtain because there was a time delay with the phone. I just lost it. My brain was missing already since I didn’t really think Alan would be there and then Nathan calls. They usually call each other when one is doing a panel so that was expected by me however Nathan actually walking on stage after saying “Say that to my face.” was priceless. Nathan asks Alan to explain when he said this. Alan said about 2 weeks ago, we were at your place and you said people were talking. Nathan says,"Close, it was a month and a half ago and I was talking about what Joss was saying about a sequel if the DVDs sell enough." Alan says, "That's it? Really?" They laugh.
Alan made Nathan answer for him most of the questions. Nathan gives great detailed intricate animated stories. Alan gives funny one-liners with his beautiful expressive face. They truly play off each other well. It turns out that Nathan and Alan met years before working on Firefly. When Alan worked as a waiter at a place Nathan would often go to when he was on the set of One Life to Live. Nathan would walk in with a girl that Alan had a crush on. Morena’s dog Rudy came on stage at some point and she followed. Nathan didn’t know what the dog was doing on stage then he saw Morena. She was so excited she had to come join in the fun on stage. She gave both of them a big hug. You really could feel the joy and the love among them. Morena picked up on the fact Alan was giving stuff away and commented, “So that’s how you do it, you bribe them.” Nathan said, “Of course.”
It was really nice to see them on stage together.
Afterward was the autograph sessions. I just bought the day pass, Saxon and Ewok had the autographs. They made them sign behind the curtain so I couldn't get an interaction on the side as a tag along. Saxon didn't really have anything to sign so she and Ewok took some photos I had to sign for me. I had one with Morena taken 3 years ago in Anaheim. She wanted to know where that was and Saxon yells from the other side of the curtain. I answer back and Morena pulls the curtain and starts talking to me. She is just a sweetheart and I am so glad she came and I told her I'd see her next week at Starfury. Then Saxon and Ewok went to get in line for Alan but his line was long so there was not much time to chat. I did not get an opportunity to say hi to him but he did wave at me during the panel. It was very nice. Its been a long time since I last saw him. I didn't get to thank Nathan at all for coming. He totally made my dream come true by showing up Saturday.
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LA Comic Con June 27, 2004 Alan Tudyk
My reason for being there was Alan Tudyk. Other guests were JK Simmons, JJ Jameson from Spiderman and Lance Hendriksen, Weyland from Alien vs Predator, he’s done a lot of stuff, Millennium among them.
However, I was there for Alan. My little sister, Carol, went with me. We arrived at 7:30 am because I wanted the reserved seating. We were number 83 and 84 which was the third row. Tickets did not go on sale until 9:30 am. The majority was men very few women present. I called a friend because I wanted to ask Alan’s birthday. After we bought our tickets we left and returned just before noon.
Alan was scheduled for 12:30pm. As we are walking up to the doors of the entrance, I noticed a guy on a cell phone. He is wearing big shades and his hair is just perfectly coifed, that’s the only word I can think of to describe his hair. It is styled, brushed perfectly. So I am looking at him thinking wouldn’t it be so cool if that were Alan. Then as we are entering I say that to my sister and start to go in. She takes a look and says, “Rosie! It is him. Get back here.” So I rush out and Alan is walking away so I have to shout, “Alan?” Alan turns around, kinda of startled wondering who’s calling his name. I smile and walk up to him. I tell him I am a fan of Firefly, and I was on the set of Serenity this past Monday and Tuesday. Alan nods, however he has a very expressive face, so I think he is thinking: Oh no a crazy girl. I showed him my picture with Adam. Then it seemed like he is thinking: Oh she’s not crazy. Of course that is just my opinion of what Alan was thinking. Then I asked if he could pose for a picture. He said sure and Carol took the picture. Then I asked if she could have a picture since she is also a fan. So then I took their picture. We thanked him, someone else approached and we went inside.
Alan was very kind. I noticed there was someone waiting to lead him inside, so I was sure he was taken care of. Once Alan came on I started taking notes. There was a promotions rep from Fox there with Alan to give info about the movie. One of the coolest things Alan said about his experience on I, Robot is the special effects guys did a fabulous job. He felt he was enhanced not erased. He had to wear a variety of green suits and they studied all of his movements. All of the expressions are Alan’s, transferred onto the robot, Sonny.
He was asked if he read anything to prepare for the role. He said yes, a book titled, Me, Myself and I How Children Develop Emotions. He also read the Alexander Technique. Sonny combines logic and emotions.
When asked about the green suit he said it was skintight and he received a lot of teasing. Will Smith kept calling the green suit Alan’s - all over body panty, that is correct it was repeated several times. Other teasing remarks were: “It’s not easy being green” and “Irish speed skater.”
He did read Asimov, he said that it was all-new to him. His favorite of the short stories is I,Robot.
About working with Will Smith, Alan said, “Will is a lot of fun.” This is a serious movie so when they were off camera there was a lot of levity. He would ask Will, “How are you doing?” and Will would break out into some character and speak with an accent and reply, “My car’s stolen!” Then he plays along and asks, “Where’d you park it?” And a whole conversation would ensue.
Alan had 1 day between I, Robot and Dodgeball. During the dodgeball tournament they shot all of that in 2 weeks, there were 12 hours days of shooting and they played Dodgeball for 8 hours a day. They played against real Dodgeball Players and won a few times. He enjoyed being able to slouch again. For I,Robot he had to be all poised and speak very precisely, very articulate. He actually went to Juliard and everyone said no they’ll make you into a robot. Well he used everything he learned there.
About Firefly-
What was it like when your show was cancelled did you think it would come back? Alan responds, “Joss said at the Christmas party he would pursue Firefly no matter what, even if only in etchings.”
Alan shared the Red Button Story form Out of Gas – Ripped it out the last day of shooting on the bridge, held onto it for about a week then gave it to Joss. He said to Joss, “When your miracle gets here just push this button to call us back.” Then Alan said, “The button wasn’t working properly but finally it worked.”
1st Day on the Set- How was it being back together again?
Alan said, “We never really separated, Nathan is one of my best friends, always hanging out with Adam. Jewel lives in Canada so I hung out at her place a lot. Morena and I went to the same school. It was great being back on the set and being paid to hang out with folks I would hang out with anyway.”
How about being back in character? “Its great. He said, “Being cancelled stinks. The first day of shooting I was watching the monitor and Sean and Summer were on and I remember thinking, I haven’t seen this episode. Then I realize we’re making a movie.”
About the movie, what to expect. –River, the Alliance hires a new guy to come after River and Simon.
I lined up for the Q/A and I said, “I never really understood Wash and his relation ship with the Captain until I saw Serenity, he was playing with the dinosaurs, then it all clicked, Oh that’s Wash. I loved Dodgeball. I saw it the day it came out it was very funny. I am really looking forward to I, Robot. I first noticed you in Knight’s Tale and 28 Days and then I saw he was going to be in Firefly and I knew it would be great for many reasons. I was just wondering, aside from Serenity, if there are any other projects coming out that I can look out for.” He said, “No not really. He did an indy film called R/X where he plays a gay drug dealer named Pepe, but he’s not sure because of the circuitous route those movies take.” Then I said, “You are a very talented actor with a broad range and if I had to compare you to anyone it would be Robin Williams.” Alan said, “Wow, thanks.” My sister says everyone clapped at the things I said. I was focused on my conversation with Alan. But I am very happy I said what I wanted to say.
Someone else asked about the fact there was someone with scheduling conflicts and he wasn’t sure if it was Ron or Alan. Then Alan confesses, “It was me! But I am back.” Everyone clapped.
He said his favorite movie is Dark City because it is a matrix before the Matrix.
That is all I have about Alan’s Q/A.
Alan btw wore the white t-shirt with Serenity on it like the one Adam has, with a black dress shirt. He looked FIIIIIINE. Very nice, made me melt HOT. He just looked great, very trim, but not too thin just right. He also appeared very cool, friendly and easy going. I don’t think he understands he is gaining leaps and bounds in popularity.
Once the autograph session started he was great. He took pictures, signed autographs and was just happy to be there. He said Will (Smith) was great and shook his head like he couldn’t believe working with him. I told him he was very talented again. I had him sign my little address that I took to the set of Serenity. I have a Firefly picture on it as a cover. I showed him where everyone else signed and then he signed. He wrote, -Rosie, You say the nicest things. Great to meet you. Alan Tudyk. - I told him I missed work and received points for taking a personal day. My little sister brought the poster of the cast that was signed by the rest of the cast back in December. He liked it and wanted one. I need to find out how to get more. I know the artist’s name is Jason Palmer, he wasn’t there that day though. Once he signed, my sister told him that last time she asked Adam for a kiss and he gave her one so she wanted to know if she could get a kiss from him. Alan said, “Sure” and leaned across the table. I took a picture. Everyone behind her went, “Aaaaaaaaaaah” Then Alan said, “Now we’re having a kissing booth.”
I walked around looking for the Firefly poster. I wanted to get one for Alan but then I just wanted to get contact info for anyone else who wanted one. I just found out his name is Jason Palmer here's the link: http://www.jasonpalmer.net It seemed like Alan really wanted one. He said Nathan had one.
Overall - A totally wonderful experience. Alan totally captured my heart that day.
Rosie
Versal Shindig July 12, 2004 Nathan Fillion, Alan Tudyk and Jewel Staite
Ok, I still cannot believe it. First I'll tell you the gist then the details. We had personal interactions with Nathan and Alan and Jewel. Also we went on the set and toured Serenity full of the little details. Summer waved hi to us. It was such an amazing experience. I just can't do it justice. It seems like I think it and want it then I can achieve it.
I took my little sister Carol and met up with another girl Ewok whose mom, Saxon, was going to be an extra on Serenity that day. We arrived early and went out for breakfast before going in to Universal Studios. The park opened at 9am.
Once inside Universal, the three of us went straight for the tram tour to see if we could see anything. I spoke to this guy who said Ingrid is the tour guide who loves Firefly. We told him we were expecting many Browncoats so was there some way to sit together. He said they could work something out if we all came down at the same time. We were disappointed because we saw nothing about Serenity on the tour. Apparently they were filming indoors and we hoped it would be an outdoor shoot. After the tram tour we went down to the Mummy Ride, which is really cool, but way too brief. Then we went on Jurassic Park the ride.
Then we started to go back to meet the rest of the Browncoats arriving at 11:30 am at the store Things From Another World in CityWalk. I really wanted to get a tour of Serenity for both my sister and her friend since they both got their work permits and were not able to be extras in the movie. I thought it would be great to get a tour of the set. So I went to inquire about it. I went to the VIP Experience and they said it needs to be set up through the production company, it is a closed set and they are not able to give tours unless someone authorizes it. Well, I was a little bummed and went to meet folks. I walked out of the park at 11:30 am and stayed at the store until noon. Only one Browncoat showed up, Wylie. We were planning on meeting up again at 2pm but we were a little busy. The four of us went to the 12:30 pm showing of Terminator 2.
When we exited, we got wet at the splash zone. That is when I received a call from my mom saying Saxon called. Apparently she did not have my cell number. I called Saxon and she said they were at lunch and she was trying to get some autographs. I told her we are going to come down and find the closest spot to the stage 12. There is a spot just across from where their trailers are. We had to cross a couple of barriers but finally we arrived. Saxon came to us once we were there. She looked so cute with her blue hair. She will be easy to spot. Then she left and we were just standing there in the bushes behind the gates/bars separating us from them.
We waited to catch glimpses of the cast of Serenity or of Joss Whedon. We arrived around 1:30 pm and I knew folks would be passing by until at least 2:30 pm. So we waited. We waited patiently. Many people walking by just stared at the girls in the bushes. We were actually at the farthest point the Jurassic Ride line would extend to. There was a path, bushes and the gate separating the park from the studio lot. Finally one of the production assistants, Bryan, walked over to us and asked, “Did you pay money to stand in the bushes?”
I responded, “Nooooooo, We are just trying to see if we can get a glimpse of someone. I’m Rosie I was an extra on the set a couple of weeks ago. You would be our hero if you could get us on the set of Serenity.”
Bryan replied, “That would take a miracle. But I’ll see if I can get someone to come over… I can’t promise anything.”
I said, “Thank you, of course we understand, thanks.”
I really didn’t expect anything. Everyone is very busy on the set. However a short while later I saw Nathan start to walk over with Bryan. I told the girls, “Nathan is coming!!! Everybody calm down, be good, Nathan is walking over.” I was just way too excited; it was unfathomable that Cappy was walking over. Nathan grabbed the bars separating us with both hands and my sister took a picture!
Nathan said, “They told me there were fans in the bushes and I just had to see for myself.”
He looked at our shirts, two Blue Sun, one Serenity design and I was wearing a BDH t-shirt. My sister asked for a picture then Bryan still standing there said, “Here let me”. He took a picture and then the rest of the girls posed for a picture with Cappy. I was not to be left out so I took a picture as well. We thanked him for coming over and taking the time and they walked off.
We were just basking in our unique opportunity and since I led the expedition I am declared their hero. Then before I know what is happening my sister told me to be quiet. She said she just heard Nathan say, “Alan come over and say hi to Rosie.”
I was trying to rack my brains figuring out how Nathan knew my name. I don’t believe he remembered me but then I finally remembered I told Bryan my name. The girls were up against the gate and I stepped back onto the path trying to get calm. This was just too much!
Then I heard Alan say, “Hey Rosie is that you?” He was peering through my sister and her friend trying to find me!
The girls stepped aside and I stepped forward extended my hand to him and said, “Sure is sweetie.” I was holding his hand, honestly not sure for how long. I was talking to Alan and he remembered me. (I am so lucky I did not faint right then and there.) I told him I had given Saxon a copy of the picture we took. I asked if he got it and he said yes then corrected himself and tapped my hand with his finger and said, “No, she told me about it but I still haven’t got it.” I told him he looked good.
Then somehow Nathan jumped into the conversation asking about the picture and I told Nathan about seeing Alan outside the Shrine Auditorium. Directing myself to Nathan, “Imagine I am paying money go and get his autograph and he is standing outside on his cell trying to figure out how to get in?” Then Alan said, “Yeah I was trying to figure out how to get in.”
That was when Jewel walked up. She walked up with this look like she wondering what we were doing in the bushes. She didn’t make a comment though. She is truly beautiful. My sister told her so and took her picture.
Then Nathan said, “Let me take a picture of everyone.” He took my sister’s camera and took a group picture. Then he saw the bars were blocking people’s faces so he said “Let me take another one from this angel.” more straight forward.
We then took a picture of the 3 of them and thanked them for stopping by. I told Jewel how much I loved her blog and thanked her for posting. I love the way she writes. They are so cool and walked back to the set. So we were still waiting because it is not yet 2:30 and we hadn’t seen Adam yet. We still hoped for a glimpse.
Then I got a call from Audrey, my superhero production assistant. She said Saxon gave her a piece of paper about the VIP Experience. I had given that to Saxon earlier so that we could get permission to go on to the set. I explained to Audrey that I wanted a tour of the set of Serenity and they said it is a closed set. We needed someone from the Production Company to authorize a visit. She said ok let me see what I can do and hung up. So the waiting continued and then she called back not even 5 minutes later. She said she was sending an intern, Matt, to come escort us and give us the tour. I told her where we were and as soon as she saw us she said, “I am hanging up now.”
So now she was standing at the corner where we were and said, “Ok let me see if I can find someone…” I interrupt, “ The gate is open over there!” So she turned and walked toward it. I am sure she was thinking if its open why are you in the bushes? She did not make any comments however. I introduced her to everyone with me. Then I declared Audrey my hero. I extended my hand and asked the guy with her his name. It’s Matt. Then we started walking over to the stage. Now I was focused on Audrey and Matt and what she was saying to him. I was not looking around since I expected no one to be around. The girls glanced over to the trailers and Alan was just sitting outside and waved. They tried to get my attention but I was focused on Audrey. After they told me, “Alan was waving at you.” I missed it. Audrey said she had to go but Matt would give us the tour.
We entered the soundstage. We could not really see anyone because we were on the opposite side of the ship. The ship was dark so it was hard to step in and look around. We entered through the fore deck and went up into the bridge. They started rolling as we were in there. I placed my hand where Alan would rest his back. Just looking around the ship, I spotted the 3 switches and the 2 new panels Alan mentioned. We went back through the fore deck to the kitchen. My sister said, “Touch the handles”, so I did and I touched the top ring of Kaylee’s bunk. Lights were up and so was her sign. Then we entered the kitchen. People were lounging in the kitchen, just hanging out. Then we entered the engine room. I touched Kaylee’s hammock and noticed a poster on the wall; lot’s of Chinese touches. Then we walked out and over to the cargo hold. They were shooting there but we entered through a side way. We stood in front of the infirmary. They had just finished rolling, and then we walked in. Summer saw us and waved. All I saw was Nathan and Jewel. My sister said she saw Sean and Gina.
Then the tour was over, the other stages were down. Matt asked if we wanted anything more and I waited to see if anyone else had any requests but we were just floored with all we had been given we could not ask for more. We told him they had already gone above and beyond. So Matt escorted us to just outside the stage. The girls wanted to wander but I said no. We were going to be good. Then I saw Bryan going over to get Alan and he asked, “How did you get here?” I replied with a smile, “Audrey”, now I am not sure if I said it or just thought it but I added, “She’s a powerful woman.” Then Alan came out on his cell walking toward the stage. We all waved but couldn’t talk.
Then we went back through the gate and that was it really. It was way too cool for words. Standing next to Nathan, Alan and Jewel, then touring Serenity left me totally dehydrated. I could no longer think. I was overloaded with joy.
We all felt bad for those who didn’t make it but then again it would never have been possible for a large group. Bryan and Audrey both rock.
San Diego Comic Con - July 25, 2004
The full Cast for the first time!!! Alan Tudyk, Gina Torres, Adam Baldwin, Nathan Fillion, Morena Baccarin, Jewel Staite, Summer Glau, Sean Maher, Ron Glass and Joss Whedon.
First the most exciting thing happened at the end and by now you probably already know. Adam Baldwin shouted my name, “Rosie!!!” as if I were a long lost sister. Then walked across and gave me a big beautiful hug. That was the best moment, for many reasons, too many to go into but that was my highlight.
I’m starting with the day before because it will give a bit of understanding to my state of being.
Saturday I worked a long shift. I wanted to get out early. I needed to go to Mass and then to Betsyslu’s graduation party. She is going to be a teacher. Anyway I did not get out early. My shift ended at 6:15 p.m. There was a Vietnamese Mass at 6:30 p.m. nearby so I went there. I followed along in English. I left at 7:35 p.m. and hit the road on my way to Riverside. It is a 43-minute drive according to Mapquest. However there was a terrible traffic that I just did not expect, no accident, just congestion. It took half an hour to go 8 miles!!! I finally arrived at Betsy’s house at 9p.m. The party had started at noon. I stayed about 2 hours. It was nice seeing her again and celebrating such a great accomplishment. I left her house around 11:30 p.m.
I arrived home at 12:45 a.m. and woke up at 4:45 a.m. That is 4 hours sleep. I require minimum of 5 hours to function properly. Anyway my sister Carol and I left at around 5:30 a.m. to go pick up my friends in Anaheim. We met up with Saxon around 6:20 a.m. And our first stop was at a gas station. The name of which was Alliance. Saxon pointed that out and took a picture. We were entering into a whole New World.
We arrived in San Diego around 8:41 am. We got in very quickly and without problems. As we stood in line for our freebies, I decided to apologize in advance for anything I may say or do. Proximity to our BDHs causes a problem with my brain being missing. The hand out listed the autograph session at 11 am. I called Tamara to find out where she was and tell her about the change. Afterwards we found out where the autograph session would be and it was at 2pm and people realized they would need to make a decision. Carol and my 2 friends decided to go to the autograph session. The rest of us decided to go to the Serenity panel. It was 9:46 so we had just over an hour. We went downstairs to see what there was to see. I was very excited at this point. I was eager to see the whole cast and get good seats. I walked around with Saxon and Ewok. Eventually Carol called when she found Jason Palmer. She knew I really wanted to get a poster for Alan. When he signed mine at the LA Comic Con he looked at it with such awe and wonder. So I decide to contact Jason and I had already emailed him. Turns out Jason grew up in the city next to mine. So I told him I wanted to get one for Alan and he autographed it for him. He drew the dinosaurs and wrote over one “curse your sudden but inevitable betrayal” and over the other dinosaur “mine is an evil laugh”. He wrapped it up and so now I had a specific goal: get this to Alan. It was around 11 am so we made our way up to Ballroom 20.
After the 11 am session we tried finding better seats but apparently we did not come early enough. We sat in the 6th row on the right side. We had a huge screen in front of us. The room was seriously HUGE. I am glad we sat as close as we did. There were 4 sections I think it was 20 seats in a row per section all the way back. I saw someone else post that the ballroom seats 4900. I was thinking if everyone in the autograph session came to the panel, everyone would not have been able to get in!!! I sat next to a woman named Julie. She recognized me and asked if she knew me. I told her who I was and I was on the OB and then it clicked she has seen my pictures at fff.net It was very cool. Jason had asked me to save seats for him and his wife Yelena. So I sat next to Julie and saved 2 seats. I walked over to the middle section and that’s where I saw a strong Browncoat contingent. I saw Wiley again. I met Hasulef, in person and received a big hug. I saw Jeremy and several Browncoats I met at various shindigs. It was great seeing everyone. They had excellent seats, front and center. The 12 p.m. session was the Seed of Chucky. After watching a disgusting scene I walked out. I decided to go back to my car to get some food I had left there. I needed food. I was super excited and needed food. Ewok came with me.
When we returned I called Saxon and she came out. She told me that her daughter Coffeewench had spotted Joss downstairs in the exhibit hall. He signed an autograph for Saxon. .Ewok needed to go to the restroom so they went, I followed but stayed outside eating a sandwich. They had just gone in when I see Joss come up an escalator. He is alone, walking around like a regular Joe Schmo and then a mom and her 2 little girls around 8 years old stop and chat with him. He is very nice and chats and smiles. Then he takes a few steps and someone else spots him. Then he is just standing there and pulls out the cell. That’s when I think I might be able to get Saxon out. Joss is walking and talking on his cell. I run into the bathroom and shout, “SAXON OUT NOW, SAXON OUT NOW.” She was washing her hand and comes immediately asking “Where? Where?” I love the fact she knew why I yelled. I point over to Joss he is walking away and Saxon says let’s go say hi. So we start walking briskly after Joss. Saxon says, “We’re not stalking, We’re not stalking.” I am not sure what was said because I was in awe and he was on the phone. Seems like he was looking for the side entrance to Ballroom 20. He was looking the opposite way so I tell him where he needs to go. He’s on his cell getting directions and give me a look, kinda like how did you know what I need? He finishes and Saxon asks for a picture and I pull out the camera and take a picture. Saxon says, “Rosie your hand is shaking.” I was just so excited. I show her it came out fine. I remind Joss that I was on the set the first 2 days and he nods and shakes my hand. I don’t recall him really saying anything. There was another guy waiting to take a picture so we say bye. Then I see him walking off in the direction I told him. Of course if my brain weren’t missing at that point I would have followed him to see the rest of the cast enter. Instead I went inside.
The folks presenting were from Shaun of the Dead. I had no clue who they were. They showed a clip from a British sitcom called Spaced that was cancelled. It was hilarious so very very smart. The one part that stood out to me was the 2 main characters a guy and a girl were in a stand off in an alley. There were 5 guys standing there. Then all of a sudden IN PANTOMIME, the 2 main characters pull out these big guns and start shooting. The guys also PANTOMIME pulling out their guns and there is a great shoot out all in PANTOMIME. It was the most rutting hilarious thing I ever was. I was rolling on the floor. One guy PANTOMIMES being shot and blood is spewing out his neck. His hand is making the spewing/spraying motion coming out of his neck. The whole clip was funny but that is what really stayed with me. The whole room is rolling with laughter and then thunderous applause. The guy who made it says, “Made for geeks by geeks”. We all yell. It was very funny. I definitely hope it comes to dvd or I can find someone who will download it for me.
So they ended and then we all waited for Joss and company. The Ballroom was packed. It truly was larger than a large movie theatre. We were asked to move to the center to allow others to sit. There was no gap all the way to the back. If everyone in the autograph session had gone into the ballroom they would have exceed the maximum occupancy. I remember we told Joss how we came early and camped out at the session and it was full. When Joss walked out it was amazing. He was visibly stunned, moved awed by the HUGE LONG STANDING OVATION. He had never had such a response before. He said some stuff I don’t recall at the moment and then brought out the entire cast at one time. It was beautiful to see them. The clip came before the cast I believe and it was uber-shiny. I think it is more of a tease than a spoiler but I will not say anymore about it. Joss really did not give anything away.
Joss began the Q/A saying this is the first question so it better be good. Honestly I was just taking it all in. I enjoyed seeing Joss answer questions. I love Nathan going for the funny. One question was about nicknames. Nathan said Adam is known as stinky pants. Adam smiled kinda embarrassed. Morena said she is just called whore. Then I think it was Joss who said that’s not true sometimes we call you stupid. Sean thinks he deserves the tighpants nickname. All the girls swoon. He makes a face not understanding. Silly boy! It is just so obvious that they really get along and enjoy each other. Another question was what is the
Favorite thing about your character:
GINA: My gun ALAN: Finding non-violent solutions ADAM: Value of work NATHAN: Dancer legs JEWEL: Gets along with everyone MORENA: Intelligence SUMMER: Walking Barefoot SEAN: Simons love for his sister RON: something unpredictability commitment.
I really can’t remember it all I just enjoyed watching them and laughed A LOT! They are a great bunch and I love them all so much. The clip was shown once more and it was just awesome. It looked like an unaired episode but grander still more epic. There WILL be sequels. In Joss I trust.
Afterward I tried to get close to give Alan his gift but they had to move out to the signing. I followed the throng and tried to find Carol. She was up close. She had waited since 11 a.m. but this was their moment. I walked outside behind the autograph session to find Saxon. She said Adam gave her a kiss on the cheek as he was walking to the session. I was still trying to get my gift to Alan. I asked a female security and she said no. Then a big tough guy said, “Step away from the door.” Saxon tried to explain and he cut her off, “ I am not going to ask you again.” So she backed off and started to turn around. I told her to follow me. I was hoping if they came in this way they may come out this way. Now, I was not sure of anything. I could not tell folks to come since all I was doing was hoping that we would get a glimpse, an opportunity to interact.
We waited for the whole hour. The rest of our group found us. We saw when they came out. We were waiting for them to pass by and I had a gift for Alan. The lead security guard told us to step back. The rest of my group stepped back but I stayed put. He goes I am not going to ask you again. Earlier he had been rude to Saxon so I was ready for this man's rude tone and was unfazed. I told him, as I am holding out the gift, "I have a gift." This guy rolls his eyes. Another female security comes and stands next to me and he tells me to give it to her. I roll my eyes like yeah right and keep looking for Alan because I think I might miss him. The security guard, using a skeptical tone, says, "Well if they acknowledge you."
So I see Nathan walk by, Gina waves and smiles, I am still looking for Alan, , I didn't even see Adam he was on the opposite side from us. I see Jewel and I think she may be the last of the crew. I call her name then I see Alan at the back of the line and I say never mind. I was going to ask her to give Alan the gift.
All of a sudden I hear a booming voice, it's Adam shouting, "Rosie!!!" like I am his long lost sister.
I turn and see him cut across the folks walking by. He gives me a big beautiful warm hug. I say, "Hi Baby." It just came out like that. Then he walks past me to the rest of the group. He takes pictures and hands out Serenity money. Alan looks to see what going on, I step out and I am able to give him his gift. We hug as in greeting then I tell him he did a great job with Sonny. At that point Adam is telling everyone he's got to go. They are leaving.
I wish I had seen the security guards face. My friend did and she said his face just dropped. As she put it, he was moaded.
The thing with our crew is that they are amazing people. They don't think of themselves as movie stars. They are fully grounded. I really want Serenity to be successful; I also hope our crew does not lose their grounding. The whole cast and crew are truly shiny.
I was flying after my encounter with Adam. I still get all teary eyed.
Then people split off and I went to see Wonderfalls. Whoever did not give it a chance needs to. It is just great. Tim Minear was great and it was fun to watch a new episode. DVDs are coming out December 6th they said.
Then I walked Odile and Tamara out. It was 4:30 p.m. I walked over to the Hilton across from the hotel and I just waited for my group.
Honestly I am in orbit. I am no longer flying and I am not sure when I will return to Earth. Adam was simply precious. He really is a warm and affectionate man. The entire crew is amazing and I am very happy for my recent encounters. I promise to come back down in time for the premiere.
Odile said that it was only 70 people. Many OB Browncoats arrived early and hung out at the bar. No one official arrived until 5pm.
I was waiting for Saxon and HandmaidenAnde to arrive. I got the call they were in the parking lot so I went outside to meet them.
The convention center was literally across the street from this outdoors 2 story mall. I walked down the stairs and across and noticed a group walking over and beautiful blonde hair. Alan was speaking to Erin Gray I think. He was being very emphatic telling her something. He was pounding his left fist I believe into his right like three times.
I was struck dumb. I was alone and just mesmerized. I noticed Adam on the other side of Erin I just kept staring then it looked like Alan noticed me but just then my phone rang and I looked down. I answered it and they continued walking on. I spazzed (sp?) out with Handmaiden on the phone. “If you were here 2 minutes ago you would have seen them.”
Poor Ewok has a broken foot and on crutches and that slowed them down. By the time we arrived everyone was seated. DamnitGirlie got a seat for Saxon Ewok Carol and I. Handmaiden and her 2 friends had to sit elsewhere. The table was right next to Adam and Alan’s table!!!
Well, I approached Erin Gray since I met her at GenCon and re-introduced myself to her. She seemed to remember I went with a group of teachers so she thought I was one too. I spoke to her for a bit. I noticed Alan and Adam out of the corner of my eye at the table where I was going to be sitting but I stayed with Erin talking. Finally I made it over and Alan was talking at the next table I was afraid I missed him.
Adam was sitting next to my seat. Carol wanted a picture so I went to get the camera and take her picture.
WARNING: I CANNOT TAKE PICTURES OF OUR BDHs
I greeted Adam and he stood up shouting, “Rosie!!!” Opening his arms wide. He really is adorable. People started taking pictures then I told him I wanted to take his picture with Carol. It did not turn out well and I took too long. So you are all warned.
He went to sit down and then Erin told him he had to talk to the whole room. So off he went to the other side. I was going to sit down but heard Alan starting to end the conversation. I stood there and wanted to get his attention. I thought I missed him at our table.
So I touched his left hand with my right hand tall fingers. He finished and then looked up. He smiled warmly, gave me a hug and kiss on the right cheek. I told him I was at this table and I was afraid I missed him. I let him go talk to the rest of the room.
Then I sat down. However, I could not just sit there. I knew a lot of Browncoats so I went to talk to them. I do not know how many OB Browncoats were there that I did not know were Browncoats. I do not have delusion of grandeur and I did not walk up to everyone thinking they wanted to talk to me. I did greet folks as they entered especially if they entered alone. I apologize if I did not talk to anyone. If you want to talk to me then just come say hi I’ll give you a big hug.
Anyway I went to talk to Tamara, Betsy and 11th Hour. Then Betsy said she wanted to meet Erin Gray so I went to introduce her. I explained to Erin that most Firefly fans are first time con goers. She noted that and shared it with someone else. I thought it was important they know that about us.
Then I went to sit with HandmaidenAnde and her 2 co-workers/Browncoats. As I was about to leave I notice that Alan disappeared and then saw the security guy with him standing between our booth and that booth so I sat back down. I realized Alan was coming over.
Alan came in and started shaking my hand and then realized it was me. I kept silent and let the girls speak. He was sharing how it was to see William Shatner. Then I congratulated him on his pilot and told him how there was a group that attended the taping of Nathan’s pilot. I was wondering if it would be in front of a studio audience, he said no. He said the writers are folks that worked on 28 Days they wrote the soap opera scenes. He was very excited. Can’t remember much more than that, sorry. He looked so good. He said goodbye and moved on to the next table that was Tamara and Betsy’s table. They were loud and animated. I stayed where I was and we were talking to the security guy. Finally I left to go back to my table.
Turns out there were antics aplenty at my table. Saxon has her story to tell so I won’t tell it. She is currently at Disneyland so I will allow her to tell her story. I was hoping to hang out with a lot more Browncoats. I was on my way to see Odile when I decided to go to the bathroom. On my way back I just want to get back to my table. Adam is still in the outer room and finally move to the main room. He asks how much time he has, when do they have to leave. He only had 20 minutes left. Alan is almost to the end of the room and Alan and Adam start a little power struggle they were just playing and I didn’t see the whole thing. I went to talk to Tamara, Betsy and 11th and they tell me of their encounter with Alan. They were all dreamy eyed. I tell you Alan looked super fine and ultra hot. Then I move over to HandmaidenAnde and I hear Adam is in with Tamara’s booth. So I sit and wait and ask the girls what they want to say. Then Adam slides in.
He looks great and really comfortable with the schmoozing. He is really getting into it and relaxed. He asks what we want to talk about and HandmaidenAnde tells him her students, well the girls think he’s really cute. That reminds me to tell him Pip says hi and Stacey says hi and ILJ, everyone from the board. He says he want to know who doesn’t like him. He asks who’s your favorite character but they all say him. Then I say Wash, Adam goes good see it takes the pressure off. We had all seen Serenity so we spoke a little about that and then it was time for him to move on.
I did ask about The Inside, I asked when will it air. He said, “Don’t know, after American Idol is done maybe April or May.” With that he was off.
I went back to my table and They told me that they never got any time with Alan. On my way to see Odile I spoke some more to the security guard. He asked me if I was having fun and I said yes. I explained a little of my involvement and said I was having a blast. So I returned to the Security guy and tell him Alan missed a table he said they have to come back here. So I go back and tell everyone at my table to move, they start to question but I said hurry. So they start moving, someone asks what’s happening and I say it’s not for you. I need to get them settle before Alan needs to leave. Time is running out. So I sit Ewok and Carol and Damnitgirlie. Saxon is standing I tell her to sit and she says there’s no chair. I walk over ask if I may take the chair and then tell Saxon, “Chairs are movable.” I tell the security guy this is the new table.
Now while I am walking back and forth we have run out of time. They are supposed to leave but Adam has not even seen a whole series of tables. They are trying to make him leave and he says he will not be rushed. I was going to try to talk to him to move and at least say hi to those tables he missed but he was talking to a little kid and I just didn’t have the heart to take him away. Also it was not my job and I was busy trying to get the Alan thing set up.
Finally they are saying they have to go now. Alan says alright but comes by quickly to the table I just set up. He signs Ewok’s foot. Saxon handed me her camera and I tried to get a picture. Alan circled the table and said hi bye to everyone. I was so frantic I don’t remember even saying goodbye. It was all about those who didn’t get a chance. I never saw Adam leave so I don’t know if he even said hi to everyone.
Alan did a great job of talking to everyone quickly but not rushed. He seemed to have it timed. He was excellent at this.
Adam was really relaxed and enjoyed his conversations but did not move quickly. I was thinking, if we ever did this again they need a timer or a bell so once the bell rings then everyone moves. Also I was exhausted and I didn’t talk to everyone. They couldn’t eat and talk at the same time. 70 people in an hour was definitely too many.
It was totally awesome and overwhelming for me. I was hungry and tired at the end of it so I just imagine how they must be. Definitely they should be fed before hand and given a break half way through.
And that was it. Everyone went back to the convention or home a few stayed to get some food. I did not get a picture with Alan but I did get one with Adam. I am sorry Nathan wasn’t there but overall everything went well.
Wish you were all there.
Rosie
NY City and Spamalot Alan Tudyk
I arrived in NY City for the first time and my friend Marie gave me a whirlwind tour. First stop after dropping off my bags was Central Park. We walked around and then we had drinks at Tavern on the Green in Central Park. Afterward we went to Ground Zero so I could pay respects. Then we went off to the top of the Empire States Building, all of that on day 1.
Day 2- I slept in because I was very very tired. I flew to NY from DragonCon. So this was like taking back-to-back vacations. I went to take the Staten Island Ferry just to go past the Statue of Liberty. It was spectacular see her in person. After that I walked through Wall St and was in front of the NY Stock Exchange. Post 9/11 you can't go in anymore. But I was impressed with what it represents and the architecture.
It was recommended and seconded that I walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. I walked A LOT. It was hard finding the starting point to get on. I was almost hit by a patrol car backing up. He passed me and parked then backed up. I thought he saw me, I was wrong. But another cop helped me out. Then I walked across. I highly recommend it too.
Then I made my way to the pre-screening of the Serenity. This was my 6th time and I loved it.
Day 3 was Time Square and Alan Tudyk. From Polly:
Since Rosie hasn't gone on-line yet (I don't think she has Internet access where she is staying), I guess I'll break the good news on her behalf: Alan WILL be coming 9/22 to the premiere!
He didn't come out after the matinee showing, so she was kinda bummed about that, although she loved the show. Then after a great dinner with Josie/Diet Coke and Tzegha, Rosie and I took a walk around Times Square. We passed by the Shubert Theater, and Rosie was like, Oh, could you take this picture I couldn't get anyone to take before? So I did, and then she realized that they were putting out the crowd-control barricades up and the evening show was about to end, so we positioned ourself near the end of the barricade so she could slip around for a photo. And this woman came and stood next to us holding a FF DVD set, so we introduced ourselves--she was a Browncoat from Detriot. Well, everyone came out--except Alan. And then the woman who played the Lady of the Lake (Sara Ramirez?) came out, and Rosie asked her if Alan was coming out, and she was like, Oh, I think he's talking to some people inside. And then she took the other woman's DVD set inside so that Alan could sign it (!! she is SO NICE as well as so very talented, she was really nice the last time too), but just then, the man himself came out.
And he recognized Rosie and gave her a big hug, and they chatted and then she asked about the 22nd, and he is indeed getting the day off from Spamalot and flying out for the premiere! Which is awesome for everyone going there, although when you see him he'll be a brunette (they dyed his hair for Spamalot--his arm hair is still quite blond). See if you can get him to sing--he's really good. Anyway, Rosie was just about exploding with joy afterwards! I'm sure she'll have a lot to say about it when she gets on-line, but it was a REALLY fun evening!
From Rosie:
That was Polly’s perspective. She was with me when I finally saw Alan. Saturday was all about the show. I slept in again, got ready and off I went. I had tickets for the 2pm matinee. I arrived around 12:30 pm. This was my first Broadway show and I did not want to miss a thing. I went to Starbucks to get some coffee and into the gift shop next to the theater. I did not have a camera with me but decided I needed a picture with Alan., so I walked to a corner store and bought a disposable camera. The show was just awesome. I got a great deal on the air so I splurged on the tickets and bought orchestra seats. It may be a once in a lifetime moment and I wanted the best view. I had always wanted to see a Broadway show and I did not know if I would ever return. It was worth every penny. I sat 10th row aisle seat 101. My aisle was on the same side that Alan first appeared on. Alan was absolutely fantastic. I can’t pick out a single moment because it was all-great! Seeing him on stage with David Hyde Pierce and Tim Curry was wonderful. I would love a recording of his performance.
Afterward I waited by the side of theater stage door. Unfortunately Alan did not come out. Actually only a few did. It was 4:30pm and they had another show that evening. I was disappointed but I understood. I was just happy to see him on stage. I had a postcard from Atlanta signed by Morena, Jewel and Ron for Alan. I wanted to give him something and I thought words from friends would mean most. I had plans to meet with 3 other Browncoats at a nearby restaurant after the show. I wanted to celebrate the occasion. I was so happy I still can’t remember what I ordered. It was great to reconnect with 2 of them I had met at other shindigs and to finally meet the leader of the NY City Browncoats. We had fun talking about Serenity since we had all seen it and about the Comics. After dinner 2 had to leave and Polly and I walked around Time Square. It was great to see it all lit up. We walked into the huge Toy-R-Us store and then past some souvenir shops. My feet were killing me at this point since I wore heels to the show. I bought some slipper shoes to walk around as well as t-shirts for my family. We ended up back near the Shubert Theater and it was also lit up. I wanted to have my picture taken outside by the marquee and was unable to earlier. Polly took it for me. Then I noticed they were setting up the autograph area next to the stage door. I will confess that I hoped things would turn out this way but did not plan it. Again Alan did not come out.
Now I was really disappointed and wondered why he wouldn’t come out at all. Sara Ramirez went in to see if he was coming and then came right back out since Alan was on his way. All of you who have been near me can imagine my utter joy after my Alan encounter. No nametag or anything! Alan was signing the DVDs for the girl on my right and he looked up recognized me. His eyes went wide with surprise, smiled and said, “Hey, Rosie!” I smiled and was stupefied. Couldn't really believe it. Then the girl on my left asked for a picture so I held back. Then stepped up when it was my turn. I told him I had left something for him earlier. A postcard of Atlanta, signed my Jewel, Morena and Ron. Alan looked confused then I explained I was here for the 2pm show. Then he got a little sad and said "And I didn't come out." as if he was picturing a disappointed Rosie.
I told him I understood, no worries. Then we took a picture, it happens to be the only picture that came out well. After that is when I asked him about September 22nd he said, "Oh, I am going". I gave him a hug, thanking him. I also told him he was the reason I finally came to NY. I wanted to see him perform. I told him he was really funny and gave him a hug.
I walked away giggling and then dancing for joy. That made the whole trip. I had a blast. I love NY City. I really want to return. I love this city. NY Rocks.
Rosie
The Walk of Fame and Serenity Panels
Friday
The Walk of Fame is where they have all the autographs. Kevin Sorbo, James Callis, Nicholas Brendon aka Xander from Buffy, then actors who played C3PO, Darth Vader and Chewbacca, Mickey Rooney, the Happy Days gang Potsy, Ralph and Joanie and many others were there.
However the only line was a line for Alan and Summer. We walked around and saw the front of the line for Alan and Summer. It was great seeing them again. I went to get in line with my friend P. The line was about 30 people when I lined up. There were 10 inside and the rest outside the hall.
My sister Carol put together a scrapbook for Alan at my request. The Spudyks from www.alantudykonline.com wanted to present Alan with some letters of appreciation. I thought it would be a good idea to add a picture so Alan knew who was saying what. Carol put it all together as a scrapbook. Poor dear spent the lots of time working on it, getting the right scrapbook, she chose a cream one with leaves, for our leaf on the wind We had to go buy ink for the printer for the pictures and figure out the right size for the layout. She printed the pictures and cut out the shape of Alan and the Spudyk in the picture. Carol was leaving for Vegas early Monday morning. Sunday night she started printing everything and cutting things out. She did not go to sleep until about 3am, she is a perfectionist so that made things take longer. She ran out of time and did not write a letter herself but at least her picture was included.
So when I got to the front of the line I was excited to see Alan and give him the scrapbook. The lady collecting cash tried to help me calm down but I am always excited each time I see them. P was in line ahead of me. I didn’t hear what she said but in the end she did tell Alan she was with Rosie. He looked up and smiled and gave me a hug. I took a picture of her and Alan. It took a while because I must admit holding a camera facing any of our BDHs is difficult for me. It was a disposable camera so I am not sure yet how it turned out. I gave Alan the scrapbook and Carol full credit for the work. He looked at each page and nodded. I honestly can't recall what he said but he did like it. Then I chose the traditional Wash at the cockpit with the dinosaurs at the console for Carol. Then I chose a Steve the Pirate for myself since I don’t have that one. As he signed I told him they had the longest line out the door. Alan signed Garrrrrrr as I told him as if in response. P took a picture of Alan looking at the book, then of us both together. Unfortunately we missed Summer, she had to take a break. We decided not to wait. There was a panel starting in a few hours, we needed to get in line.
We made our way to the Hyatt around 3:45pm the Serenity panel began at 5:30 pm. There was no official line. Though there were many Browncoats hanging in front. JenskiJen already went to speak to the head of security. A line formed in the middle of the lobby. I walked up to the guy in front and asked what his job was. He said it was to guard the door. Then I asked what the line was for. He said, “They think it’s the line for Serenity but we haven’t started that yet”. I told him that the line had formed and they needed to take charge. As I said that there was a man behind me taking charge of the line. I turned and thanked him and got in line. The line was in the same place as last year. It went around the hall and up the stairs and out the door. I was at the door. Actually those ahead of me should have been at the door but they began to wrap back around. I opened the door and said, “No. The line goes out the door.” They stayed there but the rest of the line followed me out the door. It went around the building to the curb and around the corner. It was about 4:30pm at this point.
We were finally allowed to enter at 5:25pm and we formed a chain linked by putting a hand on the person in front. This was because we had to cross through the middle of an open area to get to the Ballroom. I was in the 2nd row center and there were 2 ballrooms that first night. Each ball room was 2,000 people and so there were 4, 000 folks there for Firefly Friday night. I really can’t recall what was said, just that Alan was very funny and it seemed he was really enjoying himself with Summer. Summer was also funny. They were asked how they felt when they read the script and found out Book and Wash died and Summer said she didn’t feel anything. That’s when Alan gets a look and then gets a call from Nathan and tells him about Summer. Nathan starts talking about Summer, then asks if he’s on speaker phone. Then he say, “Oh awkward.” The panel was an hour long and it just goes by so fast. It ended with Summer and Alan doing a re-enactment of the beginning of Serenity with Wash on the bridge playing with the dinosaurs. Summer did the this land part. Alan did the your grave part. It was cute. As they left Alan threw the dinosaurs out to the audience.
Saturday
We woke up at 8:30 am. We all wanted to see the DragonCon Parade. Definitely a must see. Last year was my first year and I missed it. We stood in front of the Starbucks. There were lots of cars from the Batmobile to the Ghostbuster car. It was very shiny, great to be represented. I think we needed more participants for the Browncoats to show superior numbers. After that we, Nef, S, B and I went to the Hilton to check out the Exhibit hall and the Walk of Fame. My friend P discovered a dental guy who makes fangs from the same material dentists use. She got them Friday and went back to get them fixed.. B and I walked about and Nef and S walked and then got in line for an autographs. Summer gave their baby a rubber ducky. She’s such a sweetie. I walked around with B looking for a specific movie on DVD. The Exhibit Hall didn’t have it. So we left and went to the Marriott Dealer room and then the Exhibit Hall at the Marriott. We all finally met up for lunch my friend P was picked up by her father.
After lunch we walked by the line for the Serenity Panel. It was about 2pm. Nef and S were not going and B wasn’t going. I had friends in line saving me a spot so B and I walked some more, this time through the art show at the Hyatt. There were a lot of very interesting images. A dragon and a kitten playing were my favorite. B and I split up and I went to sit in the line with my friends. At this point the line was so long that folks were directed to the opposite end to find the end of the line. There were some Browncoats in line since 12pm. Folks take turns sitting in line and walking about. Browncoats are very smart and well organized. Peter the security guard said we were among the best groups he has been in charge of. He is a con geek from way back so working Dragon Con is a treat for him. We finally made it in and it turns out there were already 6 rows full. Apparently some folks rushed the doors when they opened. We still had great seats and Alan and Summer were still funny. One of the things I love the most about seeing our BDHs is the fact it just never gets old. Some questions may be the same but they always seem to keep it fresh. I really can’t remember what was said when. I just remember laughing so hard and having tears in my eyes.
After the panel was the Wake for Wash and Book at 7pm. It was a walk through when I arrived since I went up to change. Alan came and left before I arrived. There was a woman who was dressed as Wash’s mom, she actually wrote the winning eulogy which Alan read the next day. There were plenty of dinosaurs and books .We went to have dinner after that and then we were ready to go to the Shindig. The line started at 9pm we arrived around 9:30pm Once we went in our first item was finding a seat. We sat in the back because the band was set up in the front. The Shindig started with the costume contest, over 70 contestants, my favorite was the ship. There were many contestants but I was unable to see them since we were in the back. We all saw them file out to take pictures. The contest lasted an hour then the music began. Emerald Rose played the theme from the Done The Impossible soundtrack. That was my favorite part of the Shindig, a room full of Browncoat singing the Ballad of Serenity.
Sunday
After church I walked over to the Hilton to check out the Walk of Fame. I still needed Summer’s autograph. I walked through the Marriott and there were lots of people waiting to get in to the exhibit hall and the dealer room. When I arrived outside the exhibit hall at the Hilton I saw there was not line for Alan & Summer. I walked over to the guy sitting there and asked if I could start the line for Alan & Summer. He said, “No, everyone enters through the same door. If there’s a line then we’ll move it.” I told him there will be a line. He looked as if I was nuts. I turned away and he said it looks like someone is moving the line. It was the most beautiful thing to see: about 100 Browncoats moving in an orderly manner to where the Alan/Summer line goes. That was about 2/3 of the people waiting. As we saw the line moving the same guy who said "if" a few moments ago now said, “Holy Crap ” All of a sudden everything just seemed right with the world.
So I stood in line for Summer. I was about 30 from the front and some lady walks out and makes sure we know this is just the line for Alan and Summer, not for the exhibit hall. No one moved. I told her we know this is the line. It was as if she thought there couldn’t possibly be a line this big. While waiting in line I wrote a letter to Summer. Honestly can’t remember what it all said. I know I told her she is very talented and playing River is very hard. Summer said in a panel that she doesn’t think she is very good. I assured her she was. She also wanted to see Alan play the role of Pepe in RX aka Simple Lies. I gave her the link to www.alantudykonline.com so she could find it.
As we approached someone warned us that Summer had another panel so she would have to leave early. Since I already had Alan’s and Summer was leaving I wanted to make sure to get her autograph so I skipped Alan when my time came. I was going to say hi but the lady said I could move over to Summer instead of waiting, so that is what I did. Summer was beautiful as always. I gave her the letter and a wooden rose I brought for her. I bought a bouquet at a fair and it was hand carved. I didn’t want to talk much since there were many folks in line hoping for her autograph and I knew she’d be leaving. I ask for an autograph for my sister and then for myself. I asked if her mom came with her and she said she planned to but something came up at the last minute. Summer is moving and her mom had to stay behind to oversee everything. I wanted a picture but decided against it in the interest of time. I don’t have a picture with Summer but I hope to in the future. I felt bad not saying hi to Alan but he was busy and I really didn’t want to steal any time from anyone else.
From there I walked over to the line for the Serenity panel with a spot saved already. Jenski was working on getting some storm troopers to hold the line so we could enter and not have folks rush the doors as the previous day. In the end she just asked many Browncoats to do the honors. We formed the link and in we went. Our 2 BDHs continued to be great. How they do it I don’t know. I remember one question that stumped Alan was what would you do with unlimited resources. The possibilities being endless he couldn’t really think of anything. I can’t remember Summer’s answer. I do remember Alan speaking in Gerhardt’s voice from 28 Days, it gave me chills. The lady who wrote the winning eulogy for Wash’s wake wanted him to sign it saying yes I read this as confirmation for her son. Someone else requested he read it and he did. He made corrections along the way. He added a lot of sexy, sexy, sexy descriptions for Wash and finally one for Zoe. He made a great job of reading it. Summer was asked what her method is to prepare for a role and she said, panic and prayer. Alan said she’s a natural. Summer only took one class for acting and it was to help people who are shy speak in public. It was a Jazzercise class. Alan laughed, he thought it was great. It was neat seeing Alan react to Summer’s answers. It was as if he were finding these things out along with us. They were congratulated on winning the Hugo Award and Neither knew what it was. They thought it was cool once they were informed. Alan said he needs to call Joss. That’s about as much as I can remember.
I did not get to see them on Monday, the panel that day was cancelled and I did not make it back to the Walk of Fame. I did hear though that they were both tired but still gracious when signing autographs.
Alan is sexy, sexy, sexy, as well as smart and sensitive. Summer was beautiful and sweet. They were both funny with Alan really cracking jokes throughout and Summer holding her own.
Rosie
B3 - Browncoat Back-Up Bash December 7-10th, 2006 Thursday Well really the story begins a week earlier when we first heard the Flan 2 was cancelled, then told it was actually a go. However I will start with Thursday, the day before Flan 2 is scheduled to begin. Rumors are flying that Flan is cancelled. First Nathan’s rep tells people that Flan 2 is cancelled. Then Friday morning Vicki posts on Booster Events that she has sold her interest in the company to Denise’s husband Dave. Dave is driving down from Oregon to Flan 2.
4pm comes the official notice on the Booster Board that Flan 2 is cancelled. It’s insane but its true. Now I would be angry for all those people who spent literally thousands of dollars to be here. Unfortunately I spent all my anger the week before when the cancellation was first announced. I was shaking I was so mad. Now I was just mad they said it was a go and still dropped the ball enabling us to put on a great planned out Bash.
So I start to get ready to go to the hotel Thursday. I wasn’t planning on going until Friday afternoon so now I need to get things together. At 6:30pm I get a call from Suinegagpf that Adam Baldwin has just arrived at the hotel. Once again proving what a sweetheart he is. He got off work, heard that there were about 50 people in the lobby/bar upset and he went and spent his own precious free time with fans. Now to understand the enormity of people’s plights, well really you just can’t do it. People traveled from UK, Scotland, Germany, Australia, Canada and all over the US. People took vacation time. Some came for NanoCon that was also cancelled the week before. So getting to see Adam meant a lot.
Unfortunately I was still stuck at home getting things ready. For those who don’t know I have had many many many opportunities to meet Adam. So many in fact that Adam knows me from the OB The original board and likes to shout - ROSIE !!!- when he sees me. I keep thinking he won’t do it again but it’s gotten to be a thing and I love it and others get a kick out of it. So when Suinegagpf called he handed the phone to Adam and he shouted my name. I told him I thought it would be an hour by the time I got there so he said he would be around for an hour and a half. Suinegagpf called again and put Adam on the phone I told him I was just a few minutes away and he said he would have one more beer then he had to go. I arrived at 8pm. I went straight to the bar, saw DanRegal and gave him a hug. I saw a few others and gave them a hug as I made my way to Adam. I saw him cross the bar and sit with another lady. I knew he had just sat down so I held back. Adam was waiting for me but I did not want to take time from someone else. I just stood nearby and watched. Then Adam looked up and shouted my name again and got up and gave me a hug. He always makes me feel incredibly special. He pulled up a chair so I sat next to Adam and discovered the lady he was speaking to was Tribblelyn.
So I sat there with a few others Wyobar and another woman. Basically Adam was talking about politics and posting on the board. He likes the conversation and doesn’t take himself or anything serious. Everyone has an opinion and he just really enjoys the conversation that happens no matter what is said. He also talked about some of the movies he made and someone mentioned Captain America but he thinks it should be someone younger. *shrugs* Adam is our Captain America no matter how old he is. Then we got on the subject of Rock Hudson and Adam went to the same school as Rock Hudson. Adam’s dad actually knew Rock Hudson. Adam shared that in 1981 he was doing a play I think and Rock was nearby doing a play and someone thought these 2 should get together since they went to the same school and made it a photo op. So apparently there is a photo of Rock Hudson with his arm around Adam kind of looking at him sideways and Adam looking at the camera clueless. I’d love to see that picture.
Finally Adam had to go. Someone came up to ask if she could take a picture and he discovered she came all the way from Australia for Flan so of course he said yes. With that he said goodbye and that he would return Saturday. He said Nathan has called him to ask what they could do to help. Our BDHs truly care about the fans and are generous with themselves. I left Adam and went to the planning meeting of Back-Up Bash. I was a proud volunteer. The Organizers are an amazing group. The hotel could not allow us the space that Booster had reserved so we had to find alternate location to have events and transportation as well as the schedule for the event. As of Thursday there were 160 people signed up for the Back-Up Bash.
Friday I arrived at the Hilton about 9am on Friday. I am walking up and I am happy to see Jason Palmer there. He is a great artist www.jasonpalmer.net for those who don't know. Someone called him last night to let him know Flan was cancelled. Unfortunately he was hard at work getting things done so he missed the message. He was just walking out of the hotel and to the car where his wife Yelena sat. I heard him tell her to park the car. Its not good. When Yelena returns I break the news and give as much info as I know and we make our way to the B3 planning meeting. The news really takes a while to sink in to everyone told. The B3 meeting was to finalize the details of the announcement that would be made at 11am. We had told folks there would be an update and so folks gathered in the lobby waiting for news. We had over 200 people there. Mark Sheppard arrived around 9:30am and was in the lobby for the announcement.
Adam was the speaker and he let folks know we were not allowed to have any space at the hotel. There was one room because Universal had arrived early Thursday to set up and display the costumes. However we needed a space for the dealer’s room. No one except I guess the stars were notified of the cancellation. Many vendors came anyway. So we set up a con suite where they could sell there wares. We received discounts for entry into Universal Studios. The SoCal Shindig was moved to Friday night instead of Saturday. We were told to dress up fancy or come as you are. We were told about the donations coming in from all of those online. Then the planning going on for something on Saturday but we could not share because this event was for Flan attendees and we had limited space. We asked everyone to be ready to go Saturday morning at 9am to an undisclosed location. Transportation would be provided and no one had to pay for anything other than their own food.
I volunteered to sign up all volunteers. I spent all of Friday standing by the doors as folks walked in. We were not allowed to post signs so I became a walking billboard. I made a sign about volunteer sign ups. Adam said we need to have folks hang in the lobby to break the news to folks as they arrived. I felt that was very important. I knew folks would continue to arrive without knowing what happened. So I gave my volunteers a spiel of the schedule. I told them you need to tell them a story. Let them know what is going on. This is who it went: Friday Flan 2 is cancelled. Back Up Bash is on 12pm Costume viewing 12:30pm Bedlam Bards are playing by the pool. 1pm Dealers Room in suite 570 6:30 pm Mark Sheppard is signing autographs. Also Brett Matthews is signing autographs. 8pm SoCal Shindig in the Bar Saturday 9am be ready to in the lobby, wear comfy shoes. Field Trip.
This was repeated to everyone arriving and they were asked to sign in so we could get a headcount. Most folks knew what was happening but came anyway. They heard Adam had come by and a Back-Up was being planned so they decided lets go anyway. These folks were easy. Breaking the news to those who didn’t know was like telling them someone died. It was a devastating loss. The first person I told was a lady carrying a suitcase. I told her to put her case down. Then I told her Flan is cancelled. The look of shock and disbelief was common. I waited for it to sink in and repeated Flan 2 is cancelled. I held up a paper and said that is the top of the list there’s more. They would ask questions about Flan and I would repeat Flan 2 is cancelled. I tried to stress this is something else. The next person I told was a guy who arrived on the shuttle, saw Mark Sheppard and was happy shouting with joy and enthusiasm. Others saw this and realized he didn’t know and went "awww you don’t know." But no one broke the news to him. Finally he came to me and asked why do they keep doing that. My friend did the same thing and tried to give him a hug and I shoooed her away. It was obvious he didn’t know and no one was telling him. I told her you can’t hug him if he doesn’t know why. So I broke the news to him, he was a BDP holder and lost $800. He went from flying high to falling flat. It took some time for it to sink in. He went back outside and sat down, dejected. Dawn, another volunteer went and sat with him. Eventually he came in and signed up to volunteer. Something clicked and he decided to make the most of this weekend.
The next person was a gentleman who had paid for a luncheon with the stars. He was confused by it all. They all stayed and had fun. There was a family Mom, Dad and grown-up daughter who had checked that morning and the booster board said it was on. Not sure what mom saw but because of that it was very hard for them. Adam (lexigeek) and a few other organizers had to come up to back me up. I didn’t see them on Saturday so I don’t know if they stayed. I hope so. I took a break after telling the third person. I had a couple other volunteers and so I made them practice breaking the news. I think they broke the news to 5 more people.
I was standing most of the day so I was very tired and sat for awhile. After a few hours I went back and took over when Mark and Brett Matthews were signing autographs. Dark Horse donated some Mal and Inara comics for Brett to sign. Jonathan Woodward came and posed for pictures. Someone went and got me food, when it arrived I asked someone else to take over so I could eat. It was about 8pm autographs signings were over. I just walked to a quiet place with no people and sat down to eat a large slice of pizza. I was just halfway through and I heard a loud roar. The Captain had just arrived. Nathan Fillion and Alan Tudyk decided to come by. I finished my pizza and saw a few women stampede past me, I assume since they were running from the Captain it was to get their cameras. I walked back to my post and the Captain had already made his way to the bar joining Jonathan and Mark. Later I heard Christina Hendricks was also at a bar.
James was standing there as I walked up. He was smiling and telling me to look at who was here. I must confess that all I saw was some scruffy guy wearing a blue hat. It was just his left profile. I thought ok focus James is excited and he thinks you know this guy. Then I focused on the hair, beautiful strawberry blond Alan Tudyk hair. IT WAS ALAN TUDYK!!! Now you all know how much I love Alan. I love all the BDHs but Alan is just special to me. James wanted me to go up to him. Instead I turned around and went straight to the restroom to spazz out. This is what I do. I need to spazz and jump for joy and squeeel and get out the nervous energy. Seeing Alan walk in when he should be in Santa Fe was enough to take the sting out of the day. I was truly happy. I went back to my post and was told to "GO!!! " by several people. So I went. Alan was in front of the registration desk taking pictures. I did not have a camera but I needed to give him a hug. So I did, I told him I did not have a camera but just wanted to give him a hug. Honestly I can’t remember much of what I said. I am not sure if he really remembered me but he was friendly. I commented on his facial hair and told him I didn’t even recognize him. He told me he was filming a western. I thanked him for coming. That’s about all I can remember. Then he went to the bar and I went back to the lobby. There were over 200 people in the bar. I heard Nathan was playing Santa. He brought a box of stuff from his closet and started handing it out to those who came the farthest. I was far from the bar but heard a loud, high decibel roar from the bar. Not sure what happened but it scared me.
Later Lexigeek posted to me: The loud roar you heard after Nathan had been in the bar a while was when people realized Alan was there. He had been standing there for about 5 minutes, but because of the hat he was wearing and the 3:10 To Yuma beard he had going, people didn't spot him at first. Only once he started to make his way through the crowd to Nathan did they figure it out.
Thanks Lexigeek for clearing that up. I have been blessed to see these folks a lot so I wanted to make sure others had their chance. Many folks at the Back Up Bash were new first time con goers. The roar had them exit the bar and move to lobby to take pictures. I heard Nathan and Alan took pictures with everyone in line.
Our Big Damn Heroes truly rock. Alan had the day off so he came in (from Santa Fe, New Mexico) when he had already cancelled. Nathan brought presents. Christina Hendricks came to hang out in the bar with a first date.
Finally I went to the evening meeting to discuss the plan for the next day. I left there around 11:30pm and heard Jonathan Woodward and Mark Sheppard hung out in the bar very late. I went to sleep around midnight. It was a very surreal day for sure full of sadness and lots and lots of joy.
Saturday
I woke up at 5am. I normally wake up around that time since I need to be at work to open at 6:30am. I got ready and went down to the lobby and started on this report. Then I found Tribblelyn and we went to have breakfast at the hotel restaurant. We went to the hotel lobby and waited for the announcement. Corey Bridges, from Firefly Multiverse, provided the funds for the buses. He came to announce the Firefly Multi Media Online game. He found out Flan was cancelled but a back-up plan was being made so he came anyway. We needed to transport 300 people from the Hilton to the offsite location which ended up being The Pickwick Gardens almost 3 miles away. I think we only had 2 buses and they normally hold about 60 people so it took some time. We didn’t want to say where we were going because space was limited. We were in a ballroom. The dealers were set up along two walls. There was a stage.
I am not sure what the schedule was. I had to organize volunteers to help others board the bus. Everyone attending was given a wristband so we would know they were on the list. Lynn gave them directions to coordinate the system created by Arielle. I also needed to find volunteers to stay at the hotel to greet anyone who showed up on Saturday and get them registered. Believe it or not we did get folks arriving late last night and on Saturday. The one I heard about was a 10 year old boy, devastated by the news when he arrived Saturday afternoon. I saw him later at the party that night.
I missed most of what happened at the Pickwick Gardens. I got there late and needed to find food. So I missed Corey’s announcement and Greg Edmundson’s talk about the music which is probably the one talk I wish I had stayed for but I was hungry. I did hear some of the Chinese swearing lesson and the Bedlam Bards play as well as the Done The Impossible presentation of a couple of easter eggs. I am trying so hard to remember what else happened on Saturday at Pickwick. The buses started heading back at 3pm. Jonathan Woodward showed up once about half the folks had left. He thought folks had bailed and was worried if we would show for the party that night. We planned to start leaving the Hilton again around 6pm. I drove folks down to Pickwick and drove those same folks back again. I decided to just hang out in the lobby.
At 6pm the buses started running, 2 buses taking people to Hollywood. We were going to preview Clare Kramer’s husband’s new club that was going to open in a few weeks. Clare heard about what happened and just felt like she had to do something. Many people were involved in getting this event organized for us. They arranged for the transportation and free food at the club, absolutely delicious hor d’oeuvres. The club is called La Cantina. It is located on Hollywood Blvd in a very nice shopping alley. The place was not large enough for everyone to be inside. It probably held 100-150 people. We were a group of 300, so about half stayed outside in the outdoor patio area. It would have been just fine if it hadn’t poured. It hardly ever rains in LA but Browncoats shindig outside and of course it needs to rain on our party. I just thought it was hilarious. So many things trying to get us down and it rains too.
Already there when I arrived on the last bus was Nathan and Morena, Mark and Jonathan and James Leery and Camdon Toy. I did get to see Ron Glass arrive. The folks outside created a walkway for him and held the line. Ron was told they were volunteers and he said, “So am I.” Michael Fairman, Niska, was there as well. He was the one I really wanted to see. I looked everywhere for him. Most of the stars were sitting in a special booth surrounded by glass so you could see them but not access them. The only chance was when they went to the restroom. Michael, however, was walking around and it seemed like he was having a blast. I told him he was the reason I finally decided to buy a ticket. He smiled, gave me a hug and said something in a Niska voice. Jonathan and Mark sat for a while but they walked around as well. Morena walked by me on the way to the restroom with Christina behind her. I’ve seen Morena over 15 times and I was very happy when she saw me and very naturally, with a smile, said, “Hey Rosie, Having fun?” I said yes and thanked her for coming and thanked Christina as well. Nathan finally had to go and he tried to make his way but it was hard with so many fans and he kept stopping to talk. Eventually he decided to go around the outside. He did walk though the inside on his way back. I didn’t get a chance to say hi. He said hi to just about everyone on his way back from the restroom. Saxon was telling him about Dragon Con and the 76th Brigade and he was concern about not having a costume. He was interested but made no commitment so we’ll see what happens. The dream, of course, is to have more Browncoats in the Brigade than the 501st. That would be something to see.
I didn’t see Ron get up. I kept walking in a loop inside then outside. I had 2 margaritas the first was ok and the second was potent. When it started raining I just felt like I needed to be outside with those not coming inside. I did tell people that there was a bus if they wanted to leave. At one point the rain came down in sheets. Saxon was outside most of the time against the glass where the stars sat. At one point Morena turned around and saw us in the rain and made a face and asked if we were cold. Saxon got playful and Morena smiled. Morena looked like she was having fun. It really felt good to do something. At one point Jonathan Woodward got up on the bar but I was outside. I did see Nathan just cracking up at Jonathan. I saw Mark outside in the rain as well as Jonathan. They were both around a lot interacting with the fans. I kept going in circles. I did not want to stay inside when so many were outside but I did not want to stay outside either so I compromised and went in and out. When the rain started I just started to dance. I was drenched. My hair was a mess as was my makeup. Lucky for me there were no cameras allowed at the party.
Finally it was time to leave around 11pm. I heard Mark say that they were working on getting the place ready up to that day, painting. He said there was expense to get it done on time. I just had to thank Clare personally. She is such a beautiful woman both inside and out. Clare is sitting in the booth now almost empty. I thank her and she sits up on the booth and asks if I had a good time. I assured her we did and thanked her again for getting this place ready. It was an honor to meet her and see what a good person she is. Then I made my way to the bus. Dawn shared her room with Saxon, Ewok and I and it was time to go. We stayed with Tribblelyn the first night and Dawn the second. Very generous Browncoats for letting us invade. Now by this point I was very tired and ready to sleep so I got a little cranky and non-sensical. Lucky for me Saxon is accustomed to this. Dawn was a sweety so I hope I didn’t offend her.
Sunday
I normally go to church on Sunday. I woke up early and went back to bed I finally got up and ready and left for church around 7:30am. I went to mass and then went back to the hotel to see if anyone still needed a ride. I gave some folks a ride. Sunday at the Pickwick was a different Ballroom. Again I am trying to remember what happened. I know that once again I needed to find food. I went to El Pollo Loco and ran into two older ladies and a young lady. One asked if there was a convention and I explained briefly then started talking about the show since that is what I do. The lady told me they were big fans. I thought how shiny to be sitting in a restaurant and all of a sudden there’s a Browncoat invasion. The lady at the next table asked the name of the show and I told her. Who knows she may become a new convert.
Once I returned to Pickwick I went to find a place to sit. There was not enough seating for all. Space was limited. So I disappeared for a bit. I went to lie down on the grass. I figured I would here a loud roar if things started back up again. There was. Shawna Trpcic the Costume designer for Firefly was there doing a Q&A. Then Tim Minear came and showed us a fanvid he created of his work. Then we watched Ariel as he did a commentary, sharing little known facts. Finally he had some things he wanted to just raffle off. Tim was wonderful and so very funny. I am really looking forward to seeing his new show Drive. After that there was 11th Hour’s presentation about her art work for the RPG and the alternate DVD covers. Finally it was church with Jonathan Woodward. Now, being a religious person I was not sure about this. However Jonathan is just so very funny that if you get the chance you need to just watch him perform. Jonathan has a wonderful, funny and giving heart and I just love him for all the fun we were able to have with him as well as with Mark Sheppard. These two gentlemen hung out the most. We were blessed by being able to know them a little better. Jonathan makes wallets. I think the website is Johnny Wallets.com. They are high fashion items and I want one just because they are from Jonathan Woodward. Among the prizes raffled off was a Browncoat Cruise full access. DTI is organizing a Browncoat Cruise and you should all think about this. Browncoats together always have a lot of fun.
Well it was time for me to go. I gave many hugs and went home instead of back to the hotel. It was about 6pm. I had to go to sleep since I start at 9pm. I heard more fun was had back at the hotel and if I had Monday off I would have stayed. I am proud to be a Browncoat. I know how much we care about the show, each other and about the actors. To know that those actors care so much about us and went out of their way to help everyone have fun is unheard of anywhere. Our BDHs care about us as much as we care about them and other Browncoats. Many people gave, sacrificed to make this happen. I am tired and did not run around as much as the core group of Organizers they worked while we slept. This is a beautiful fandom. We are family. BROWNCOATS FOREVER
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