Modest Beginnings
In 2017, the Queen City Anime Convention (QCAC) debuted in Charlotte as a modest, one-day event with an entry fee of only $6. The event was a grassroots effort, marked more by its ambition than by its size. Our inaugural event hosted over 1000 attendees, and this modest yet pivotal success laid the groundwork for QCAC’s future growth.
Prioritizing the Performing Arts
At the heart of Queen City Anime Convention (QCAC) was a profound appreciation for the performing arts, a passion that drove the event’s unique character. Rather than solely focusing on traditional anime convention elements, QCAC distinguished itself by showcasing a wide array of performances that I often described as “a performing arts festival disguised as an anime convention”
The main events lineup frequently included acts like cosplay wrestlers, aerialists, burlesque performers, bands, DJs, rappers, improv performers, taiko drummers, theatrical productions, dancers, and others.
Central to this artistic vision was Cirque du Cosplay, a performing troupe I founded and performed in. This troupe has since evolved, creating shows inspired by popular themes like "Demon Slayer" and "Avatar: The Last Airbender." The presence of Cirque du Cosplay added a unique and dynamic flair to the convention, blending the artistry of aerial performance with the imaginative world of cosplay, and it’s popularity was a driving force in QCAC’s growth.
This emphasis on the performing arts was instrumental in shaping the identity of QCAC, setting it apart as a uniquely vibrant and inclusive event in the anime convention circuit. It was a reflection of a belief that conventions could be more than just gatherings; they could be celebrations of diverse artistic expressions, resonating with a wide audience and leaving a lasting impact.
Rapid Growth in Attendance
From its inception in 2017, Queen City Anime Convention (QCAC) experienced remarkable growth in attendance, a testament to its increasing popularity and appeal. In four years, QCAC expanded from a modest gathering of 1,000 attendees to an impressive 7,000, marking a significant rise in its scale and impact.
Community Impact
A cornerstone of QCAC's mission was its commitment to community engagement and social responsibility. In 2021, we raised $27,000 for Greater Charlotte Rise, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing aid to homeless individuals in Charlotte. This initiative was particularly close to our hearts, as Greater Charlotte Rise plays a crucial role in offering essential services and support to one of the most vulnerable segments of our community.
These accomplishments were a source of pride for everyone involved – from the organizers and volunteers to the attendees and performers – and they set the stage for QCAC's continued evolution as a prominent cultural event with a heart for community service.
Navigating COVID-19 Challenges at QCAC
Pioneering the Return to Live Events
In August 2021, Queen City Anime Convention (QCAC) became one of the first anime conventions in the country to return to live events post-lockdown. This transition presented an array of unprecedented challenges, particularly in the context of managing health risks and attendee expectations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Balancing Health Concerns and Diverse Opinions
One of the most significant challenges was addressing the concerns and expectations of our attendees and staff, many of whom were highly risk-averse. We faced a delicate balancing act: ensuring the safety and comfort of those who prioritized strict COVID-19 precautions, while also managing the expectations of attendees who opposed such restrictions, and weighing both against our financial obligations and sunk costs.
This divide created an atmosphere of conflict, as we navigated differing opinions on how the convention should be conducted amidst the health crisis.
Implementing Safety Measures
As the summer of 2021 progressed, Charlotte did not have a mask mandate for most of the season, adding complexity to our safety planning.
In addition to the mask mandate, QCAC implemented a rigorous "vaccine card or negative test" policy. Understanding the importance of accessibility to testing, we procured 2,000 BinaxNow tests, enabling us to conduct on-site testing for attendees. This policy was a critical step in ensuring that our return to a live event was conducted responsibly, prioritizing the health and safety of all participants. It was also critical in our efforts to include children and families in our event, many of whom were ineligible for vaccine at the time.
Overcoming the Pandemic's Challenges
Navigating the event under these circumstances required meticulous planning, clear communication, and adaptability. Our proactive approach to enforcing health and safety measures, coupled with the external support from local authorities, allowed us to provide a safer environment for our attendees. The success of QCAC under these challenging conditions was a testament to our team's resilience and dedication to the community’s well-being.
Reflecting on the QCAC Journey: Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations
Adapting to Growth and Change
As I look back on the journey of Queen City Anime Convention (QCAC) from its modest beginnings in 2017 to its remarkable growth and significant community impact, I am filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. This experience has been more than just organizing an event; it has been a journey of learning, adapting, and creating something meaningful.
One of the key lessons learned through the QCAC experience has been the importance of adaptability. As the convention grew in size and scope, so did the complexity of managing it. Balancing the expectations of a diverse set of stakeholders, while staying true to the core values of the event, was a continuous learning process. The rapid growth in attendance highlighted the need for scalable strategies and reinforced the value of staying attuned to the community's evolving needs.
A Foundation for Future Endeavors
The lessons learned, from embracing artistic diversity to navigating logistical hurdles and prioritizing community welfare, have shaped my approach to event management and community building . As I look to the future, these experiences form a strong foundation for my next endeavors, inspiring me to continue creating events that not only entertain but also enrich and give back to the community.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every individual who has generously volunteered their time, graced QCAC as guests, showcased their talents, or invested their hard-earned money in supporting this venture. It's through the collective dedication and passion of these remarkable individuals that this event continues to thrive in my absence today.
