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Labour Weekend marks the 30th anniversary of pop-culture expo Armageddon with tens of thousands of fans expected to attend the convention across the three days to share their passion for comics, anime, manga, movies, and video games.
Organisers promise that this year’s Auckland event will feature some of the best gaming and event displays in years, as well as “more special activities than ever”.
The line includes an impressive list of A-List stars including Lord of the Rings’s and Hobbit stars Elijah Wood, Andy Serkis, Evangeline Lily, Star Wars’ John Boyega, Doctor Who’s Billie Piper and Alan Tudyk, fresh from his roles in Superman and sci-fi tv series Resident Alien.
The expo promises an action-packed schedule, with free experiences available throughout the weekend for fans of all interests, ages and dedication alike.
A highlight is the world premiere concert by Mortal Kombat 11 voice actress and singer Mela Lee, debuting her brand-new album live on the main stage Saturday. Her anticipated solo release is called Stealing Moonlight, and will be accompanied by stars Michael “Fish” Herring (Prince, Christina Aguilera, Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey) and keyboardist Alexander Burke (Magnolia Memoir, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan). Her performance will be on Saturday 25 at 4pm on the main stage.
Musical and Stardew Valley fans alike can immerse themselves in an orchestral performance of the video game’s soundtrack in an arrangement titled Symphony of Seasons. The music will take fans through the game’s most memorable locations with its 35-piece performance, along with some original content exclusively made for the concert.
Fantasy fans can look forward to daily live Dungeons and Dragons sessions, with guest appearances from DM Tommy Gofton and a cast of celebrities that change each day. Saturday’s campaign is called Imarian Nights: A Dungeons and Dragons Music Adventure. Sunday’s campaign will present a full performance, titled: A Cabin in the Woods, An Evil Dead 2 themed Dungeons and Dragons Actual-play. Monday’s campaign presents: The Tavern of Timeless Tales! An Epic “Multi-Game Master” Actual-Play, Dungeons and Dragons Experience.
All three D&D events will commence from 10am each day on Stage two.
Video gamers can expect to see gaming events throughout the long weekend, including Marvel Rivals, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, Ghost of Yotei, Crypto Gaming Lounge and the Ultimate Just Dance Arena. Along with meeting fellow gamers and competitive players, there are some prizes available to be won. For those wanting to talk to tech experts or expand their PC setup, ASUS Republic of Gamers will also have a stall for people to drop by.
For the creative spirits among the crowd, Armageddon’s Cosplay Parade and Photo Wall will be on display for the entire weekend. Attendees are encouraged to borrow, buy or DIY costumes to wear to the event. Without the pressure of judging and competition, the organizers emphasise the cosplay catwalk to be an event to “show off how fabulous you are in your costume to our adoring audience, without the pressure of competing”. All ages and interests are welcome to take part.
To avoid traffic congestion and parking issues, Auckland Transport recommends leaving the car at home. A suggested route from the Hibiscus Coast starts with catching local buses to the Hibiscus Coast Station, transferring to the NX1 bus into the city, then hopping on the 30 or 309 service from the Civic Theatre up to Manukau Road, just around the corner from the venue.
Erin Dwyer, the event’s communications manager, advised fans to “plan your days,” especially if you’re aiming for celebrity autographs or panel events.
“There’s going to be so much on,” she says.
Tickets are available for purchase online through the Armageddon Expo website, or cashless at the door.
