More Fun at Days of the Dead

In my last blog here, I talked about my Friday evening at Days of the Dead, a horror fest featuring actors, writers, artists and several thousand attendees.  As promised, I am back today to discuss the rest of the Days of the Dead weekend.

My nephew Matt and I got to the Marriott in Schaumburg very early on Saturday.  When attempting to interview anyone, the best times are usually when they just arrive at their booth.  Such was the case with Thomas Ian Nicholas, perhaps best known for his role in American Pie and Chris Sarandon, who was nominated for an Academy award for his role in Dog Day Afternoon.  Both actors were very fan-friendly.

Horror acting couple Sarah French and Joe Knetter were kind enough to give us our third interview with them in two years.  I learn something new each time and always have fun with these two.

Another favorite of mine was actress PJ Soles.  I admit, I had a crush on PJ back when she co-starred with the Ramones in Rock and Roll High School.  Getting the chance to interview her was fantastically surreal.

We also talked to artist Brian Steward, author Joe Spencer, comedian Brad Thacker, actress Ashley C. Williams and artist Kurt Dinse.  Each talked about their career and any current projects.  These lesser known celebrity guests can be the most interesting. 

Next we talked to Undead Johnny and several members of The World of the Weird Monster Show, a local production.  They are based out of the Wilmette Theater, but they also appear on cable television and the internet.  They are all approachable and entertaining.

With our “work” done, we enjoyed the rest of the convention just roaming around and checking out the cool stuff at the vendor tables.  Matt picked up a They Live poster, which he had Roddy Piper and Keith David sign.

We were lucky enough to run into Days’ organizer Adolfo Dorta, who is the busiest, fan-friendliest, most passionate convention big cheese I have ever met.  Adolfo promised to continue to make Days a great convention.

We also ran into several friends we know from other conventions, as well as PL Myers, the main man at PCW wrestling on the south side.  You just never know who you might see at a convention like this.

At the risk of repeating myself, Days of the Dead is a great horror convention run by a fantastic local guy.  My calendar is already marked for Days of the Dead in Indianapolis in July of 2013 and I am awaiting the announcement of the return date to the Chicago area.  I will be at both and I will report back here.