MONSTER-MANIA 59: August 2-4, 2024. Cherry Hill, New Jersey

Monster-Mania 59

The 59th Semi Annual Philadelphia Horror Film & Memorabilia Convention.

Special Guest: Clive Barker, Robert Englund, William Shatner, Juliette Lewis, Henry Winkler, Doug Bradley, Ashley Laurence, Andrew Robinson, Heather Langenkamp, Marley Shelton, Melissa Barrera, Jonathan Breck, Craig Sheffer, and many more.

Monster-Mania was packed. If you think Salem during Halloween is crowded, you have never attended a Horror convention featuring Robert Englund, and Clive Barker. People of all ages, all walks of life gathered at The DoubleTree By Hilton in Cherry Hill, New Jersey to meet their favorite celebrities,  and pick up items and collectibles from some of the most talented vendors. I met Vera Worthington who has Vera Worthington Fine Art. The talent is unparalleled.  Her art is vibrant and unique. It stands out.

Also in attendance the AMAZING, Horror Show Jack who was hard at work making fangs, and surrounded by the one of a kind stuffed Horror characters he creates. Katrina: Horror Inspired Printmaker, Studio Katoween.

Buffalo Bill’s House owner, Chris Rowan was deep in conversation with a group of excited souls who wanted to hear all about how to visit Buffalo Bill’s House where The Silence of The Lambs was filmed. I was able to visit, and it’s exquisite.  It’s such a peaceful, fun location.

I also attended Craig Sheffer’s Q&A, William Fichtner’s Q&A, and Heather Langenkamp’s Q&A. I frantically waved my hand to ask a question and then I pictured Robert Englund waving his hands in slow-motion with the Freddy glove on in Wes Craven’s New Nightmare which is one of my favorites. I had to ask Heather if she had any fond memories or just memorable moments in general while working on New Nightmare.  She joked, “Nope, none at all.” She then politely went into a beautiful story about working with Wes Craven, Robert Englund, and how happy she was to work with John Saxon as a protector and not a “drunk father.” He certainly was portrayed differently in New Nightmare as all of the actors were.

Each actor told great stories, fond memories, and Craig Sheffer turned down Robert Downey Jr.’s role in Weird Science. IMAGINE!!! How wild is that.

Monster-Mania is always one of my favorite conventions. It’s always good to see friends, and the Horror Family. Make sure to check it out in Maryland, and Oaks, PA.