Spa-Con: Arkansas's Premier Pop Culture Extravaganza

Hot Springs, Arkansas is gearing up to host its annual Spa-Con, a celebration of all things pop culture. This three-day event, taking place from September 22-24, promises to be a haven for fans of comics, movies, TV shows, and more. Attendees can look forward to meeting celebrity guests, attending informative panels, and browsing an array of vendor booths showcasing the latest in geek-chic merchandise.

Unlock the Secrets of Arkansas's Pop Culture Playground

Dive into the World of Iconic Voice Actors

Spa-Con's lineup of celebrity guests is a true treasure trove for fans of iconic voice acting. Rodger Bumpass, a native of Little Rock and a graduate of Central High School, is set to captivate audiences with his legendary portrayal of Squidward Tentacles in the beloved animated series "SpongeBob SquarePants." Bumpass's versatile voice work extends beyond the underwater world of Bikini Bottom, with credits in other beloved shows like "Invader Zim," "Where on Earth is Carmen Sandiego?," and "The Kids from Room 402."

Celebrating the Talents of Arkansas-Born Actors

Spa-Con also shines a spotlight on the homegrown talent of Arkansas. North Little Rock native Joey Lauren Adams, an acclaimed actor and director, will be in attendance. Adams' career began in 1977 with a small role in "Exorcist II: The Heretic," and she has since graced the silver screen in iconic films like "Dazed and Confused," "Mallrats," "Bio-Dome," "Chasing Amy," "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back," and "Clerks: The Lost Scene." In 2006, Adams made her directorial debut with the film "Come Early Morning," which was shot in Little Rock, further cementing her connection to the state.

Exploring the Diverse Roles of Acclaimed Actors

Spa-Con's guest list extends beyond the borders of Arkansas, with the inclusion of acclaimed actors like Seth Gilliam. Gilliam, a New York-born performer, is best known for his roles as Ellis Carver in "The Wire," Dr. Alan Deaton on "Teen Wolf," and Father Gabriel Stokes on "The Walking Dead." His versatility and depth as an actor have captivated audiences across various genres, making him a must-see attraction at Spa-Con.

Celebrating the Artistry of Multifaceted Performers

The convention also shines a spotlight on the multifaceted talents of performers like Tohoru Masamune and Minae Noji. Masamune, known for his work in live-action films and as a voice actor, delivered the first line in Christopher Nolan's "Inception" and portrayed The Shredder in the 2014 reboot of "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles." He has also lent his voice to various animated series, including "American Dad!," "Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness," and "Club Penguin." Noji, a graduate of the University of California, Irvine, has captivated audiences with her portrayal of Karai in the 2014 "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" reboot and her role as Dr. Kelly Lee in the long-running soap opera "General Hospital." Her impressive voice acting credits further showcase her versatility as a performer.

Bridging the Gap Between Science and Science Fiction

Spa-Con's lineup also includes a unique guest in the form of Erin Macdonald, an astrophysicist, aerospace engineer, and consultant who works with science fiction creators. Macdonald is best known for her work as a science consultant for the "Star Trek" franchise, and she has even made cameo appearances in the first and second seasons of "Star Trek: Prodigy." In addition to her impressive credentials, Macdonald also runs a successful YouTube channel, "Dr. Erin Explains the Universe," where she shares her passion for science and its intersection with popular culture.With a diverse array of celebrity guests, informative panels, and a vibrant vendor marketplace, Spa-Con promises to be a must-attend event for pop culture enthusiasts in Arkansas and beyond. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the world of geekdom, this convention offers something for everyone, making it a true celebration of the boundless creativity and talent that exists within the realm of pop culture.