The Convention Temple of Loon – Part Two
Just desserts?
After Misha’s and Jim’s panels it was standing in line again for the photo ops, and I had one with each and an Angel-FatherlyFriend-sandwich. It works like this – you approach the photo op room in a long line and you can watch on the last metres what’s going on in the room where Creation’s fantastic photographer Christopher Schmelke works his magic.
Many fans brought some props to the photo ops with Misha, and one fan had a rose, and asked him to react to her presenting him with that flower, and he did an adorable ‘what, for me?’ gesture, which was really sweet. The sarcastic guy from the stage was not entirely there anymore, no, I saw a very polite, albeit funny and still a bit crazy person who tried to have fun with the fans. As I approached him, waiting on my mark on the floor (not unlike those marks actors use to find their spot for a scene), he smiled at me and said ‘Ah, it’s you…’ Let’s assume he was not too shocked to see me there.
The atmosphere changed slightly when the sandwich pictures with Misha and Jim were taken, and you could actually feel how much they like each other. They had obvious fun during the photo ops, and though Jim is a humorous guy himself, he somehow managed to tune down Misha a tiny bit, it seemed.
I, on the other hand, felt quite excited having my picture taken with these two witty gentlemen. I really have to praise Christopher’s abilities here – he put us fans so at ease (and I think the actors, too) with his calm and quiet nature. Apart from that he was actually able to take a beautiful picture with just one shot, and would sometimes even take a second one if he felt the first one might not be good. It all happens so fast that it’s a miracle how those photos turn out to be that nice. Should you read this, Chris – thanks so much, you are a master!
Special to me was my pic with Jim, however. The photo ops with him were the last of this afternoon, so we met for the fourth time that day. I was happy to see him again and came up with ‘ah, I fear it’s me again, Jim’, he just said ‘Good’ and pulled me into a hug for the picture which was totally endearing and lovely.
I was happy that day. I actually felt like in heaven in a way… A notion that would accompany me for the whole weekend, truth be told. I haven’t been that happy in a while, and being away from my stressful job was a relief I needed badly. Don’t get me wrong – I absolutely love my work, but there are moments I feel so overwhelmed by all I have to take care of and the occasional responsibility of having to make sure a patient will live through the night instead of jumping from a high rise that I require experiences like this to fill up my batteries. And – so far this con had already exceeded my expectations by far. It’s probably not a bad thing to be a ‘newbie’.
Some of the fans who had attended several cons to date described disappointment. Especially concerning the Saturday Night Dessert Party – which didn’t go well, to say the least.
I had met the lead singer of Area 51 (the band for the night) in the corridors, searching for a responsible person to show him the stage and where he could retire with his band. I sent him to the lady in charge, but he couldn’t find her, and he passed by several times before he found someone to help him. He was a guy of heavy make up and long hair, and that should have prepared me for the style of the music we were to expect.
I was looking forward to this party, as some the guests were announced to come and a few fans I became friends with told me how nice that was – the guest coming to the table, chatting a bit with the fans sitting there, moving on to another table, and so on. I slipped on my little black dress and went down to the rooms where the party was to take place and was greeted by music so loud I could not even hear my own voice – not to mention that I didn’t hear what anyone else was saying. Or shouting.
It was impossible to talk at all, so we were basically sitting at our tables, having a drink (and I was not even able to get drunk, as I mostly get terrible migraines from alcohol, so I had to stick to soda, ah, great, the full volume of the band alone was perfect to get a head ache…), trying to communicate via sign language.
Kurt, Travis, Misha came, too, while Jim was still signing autographs (he showed up about midnight), and Misha suggested they should just mix and mingle, ‘let’s pretend this is a normal party situation’. Dear Misha, did you really expect a ‘normal situation’? As soon as he left the stage and tried to mingle, he was surrounded by a group of fans. Those others who were too shy to even speak to him sat on their chairs, still hoping that he might come over, as expected. I spoke (or rather bellowed, ahem) to some of them, and one girl told me she would not dare to say a word to him, and had simply hoped she might have taken a look at him while he was sitting down at their table… I tried to encourage her to go to him, or I could take her to him, but she was too shy and terrified. I really felt for her.
I tried to mingle with other fans I had met during the day, but talking was only possible while the band was taking a break. As they started playing again, we decided to get up to the bar and have a chat there. As much as I would have loved to have a word with the guest stars, this was an impossible situation.
I didn’t get away that easily, though, because, as I got up and turned around, I literally bumped into Misha who had been standing right behind me. ‘Ah, it’s you again’ he shouted (normal speak was, as you know by now, out of the question) and them smiled wickedly, saying ‘So, how do you like it?’ I thought for a second – did he mean the con or the party? As I took a breath to answer, Misha went ‘you hesitated too long, you don’t like it’. Another smile which didn’t seem happy at all. I guess his impression of my dislike might have mirrored his own, he didn’t look like a person who was enjoying himself.
‘No, I enjoy the con, but this party – not so much.’ I finally answered. – ‘Ah, you don’t like it all.’ – ‘Please stop twisting my words, Misha.’ – ‘Why don’t you like the party?’ – ‘Because I have to shout at you like this. If I wanted to have a party like this, I’d have hired a piano player, put him in a corner and have him play some easy jazz tunes, so we could talk.’
He thought about that for a moment and said ‘You might be right.’ – ‘I hope you have a nice night. I have to get out of here.’ He nodded, shook my hand and turned to the other fans piling up around him. But I really tried to get out of there. I hated this party, to be honest. I stayed a bit longer to meet a few of the fans I had talked to earlier, though. Had this been a rock concert, the band would have been fine, but for this occasion everything was too loud and somewhat too brutal.
And I felt bad for the guests, even though Kurt actually tried to talk to the fans a bit longer, while Misha and Travis were gone pretty soon. From an actor’s point – this was also poison for one’s voice. If you have to shoot the next day or the day after you can’t be shouting like this for some time, as it will affect your voice tremendously. In fact, your voice can be ruined fairly easily for whispering or soft, but distinct words. For a person dependant on their voice, as actors are, this was a really bad idea.
Jim, who came in after his autograph signing, concurred and was hardly able – who would have guessed – to talk to the fans, albeit he was actually doing the going-from-table-to-table. As Jim came to our table, I took a moment to thank him again for his kindness and said goodbye (and earning yet another hug from this lovely guy), not knowing yet that this was not the last I would see of him on this convention weekend.
I went up to the bar with some new friends, were we sat till they closed and then moved on to the lobby where we stayed talking till about three a.m. Sleep, as I said before, is overrated. I didn’t mind. I had a blast sitting there, engaged in a quiet, soulful conversation with some of the sweetest people I had met there. Marlaine, Kelly, C., you were a joy to be around. Thanks so much for some most wonderful memories…
I finally got some sleep before Sunday. And Sunday – did I mention this – was a blast also. You will hear about Jensen, Jared, ah, and ole buddy ‘Lucifer’ in part three of my report, to follow soon.
Thanks for reading and take care, everyone.
Even with the web series, it would be a major misstep to not have the Ghostfacers make an appearance next season.
And you confirm that Mr. Beaver really is a class dude. Very cool. Kurt Fuller, a nice guy, so comical given how expert he is at playing one of the slimiest characters I can remember in a long time. As for Misha vs. the lunatic fans (those are the real ones, that can’t separate the character from the actor) there are always a few rotten apples in every bushel. Nature of the beast. Crazy Sam girls. 😉
Aside from the over-loud party (loud is fine for concerts, but a meet-n-greet-ish mingle gig? That’s just dumb.) sounds so far like it was completely worth the trip. We remain completely not jealous. Hmph.
Hi Jasminka
Wow getting to meet up with both Jim and Misha on several occasions…your guardian angle must have been watching over you.
They say that the worst villains on TV and movies are usually the nicest/sweetest guys you will ever meet in real life. Looks like Kurt Fuller fits that bill.
Sorry to hear about your poetry book…hoped it survived ok.
I don’t think I would of survived that party as well. I would of preferred the piano idea.
I guess I’m just getting old (shhhh Randal).
Thanks for sharing Jas….looking forward to part 3
Last years Misha panel and desert party was better. I loved Misha’s sarcasm, too bad it was lost on some nutty fans. In all honesty, i thought his group of minions were a little crazy. I mean i am just as big a fan of Misha but to fret the whole weekend about finding a yellow carnation was taking things to far. I felt sorry for Misha up there. He sounded hoarse. But it was unprofessional of him to leave the dessert party early considering people paid solely for that part but i understand why he left. Like you said, Kurt, Jim and the ghostfacers were made of win. I enjoyed their panel tremendously. Kurt was the sweetest. We are very lucky to have such a group of great supporting cast. I had fun. And yes, the live band playing at the same time as the mingling was the worst idea.
Wow, Jas, you actually got an answer from Misha on the panic room. Always been on my mind. Hope he did give you a ‘spoiler’ there.
Your talk with Jim Beaver was great too. You sure had some interesting moments.
Your trip so far has been awesome. Looking forward to part three!
Randal, Dany, Karen, anene, Sablegreen, dear fellows, thanks!
Randal, Jim Beaver is indeed a man of class. There aren’t enough nice words to say about him. As for the ‘crazies’ among Misha’s minions, well, let’s not care about them. This ‘crazy Sam girl’ will have a fantastic story to tell about meeting the guy… Coming up, soon.
Dany, I just mailed the WB-publicist I met there and asked him whether we will be able to watch the Ghostfacers Spin-off in Europe. I’m sure he’ll get back to me as soon as he reads my mail, he always does, and I’ll let you know.
I sure hope, Suze will read this – I wanna see that happy dance…
Karen, this ‘villain’ surely fit the bill. He was really nice and witty! My poetry book did survive. It still has some stains, but it’s okay. That was one part of the price I had to pay for such a fantastic experience. The memories will there forever, lodged like a bullet in my brain.
Btw, you’re not getting old. I prefer the piano jazz, too, when it comes to a classy dinner party.
Anene, where were you girl? I tried to find you and asked anyone who was called something like Anne or so, but couldn’t find you, what a shame! I was beginning to think you didn’t come, but you did, right?
There were some voices who also uttered heavy disappointment that Misha left so early, for the same reason you put here, but also because some of the really shy ones lost on a chance to see him up close for just one time (like the girl I mention in my article. Later I saw her sobbing, she was desperate. Even if that might have been over-reacting, for her, being quite young (she probably wasn’t older than twenty) it might just have been a disaster).
Sablegreen – let’s just hope it was a spoiler… Misha reportedly lets something slip out. Hope that was it…
Cheers, thanx, love Jas
Hi Jas,
Great second installment! You got a straight answer from Misha AND chatted to him at the party like a real person – I’m sure that he appreciated someone else who didn’t love the party too and was honest about it. I saw your question on youtube – you really made Misha think and it was funny!
Also caught your J2 question – it was a fabulous question (I won’t spoil it here because I’m sure you’re going to put it in part three) and the boys genuinely answered and put thought into it.
Looking forward to part three!
How sweet of you, Elle, thanks!
I really did enjoy that second day and I’m happy that it comes across. I just sent the third part to Alice, it should be up soon.
Take care, Jas
Wow, Jas, sounds like your second day was awesome, minus the band migraine.
I’m so glad you mentioned the zombie alligator! Suze is going to be psyched, and it would be hilarious to see that play out.
It sounds like Kurt Fuller had a great panel. I saw a few interview clips with him on a different site, and he’s really funny and witty.
And as a fellow Bobby enthusiast and Jim Beaver fan, I’m so glad you got to hang out with him at his little private schindig! He really is a class act.
I can’t wait for part 3!
It was, Ardeospina, and we’re not dwelling on party mishaps, it’s all ‘water under the bridge’ (borrowing Misha….).
Actually I think, considering the crazy Facers, that a zombie alligator would fit perfectly into their show. I really hope Suze reads this, as I believe she’ll be delighted, but she hasn’t been around for a while, I can only hope that she’s alright!
Thanks for commenting, dear, cheers ,Jas
Hi Jas. What? I’m not jealous, why do you ask? :twisted
Ok, so maybe a little bit, but reading your encounters it’s like I was there 🙂 I’m a very grateful fangirl 😀
Your second Con Day sounds lovely, just wonderfull. Jim seems like such an old fashioned, charming man and I’m sure he is all that. I’d like to meet him too, in a not-so-crowded situation, I’m sure he has many fascinating tales of his life and his craft.
And I’m sure you’re right about Misha C. also. He seemes like such a cook but I too get the sense that in real life he’s a really sensitive and soulful guy (I think the J&J are too, I like the fact that they are so private, not caring about the red carpet -lifestyle). This whole sarcastic thing of his (which I love, sarcastic humour is my fave kind) is just an act (well some of it anyways :D) and I bet he takes some things a little too close to the heart. I agree with Randal that those people who can’t separate the character from the actor are the ones who don’t get it and think they can say what ever they want, forgetting that there’s an actual person standing there. I know I’m offended by some of the things the fans say. But that’s the price of being an actor I guess, you put your work out there and there will be a reaction. I really appreciate these guys for going to these events and giving the fans lovely experiences. Even if they don’t really want to be there, they make the most of it 🙂
Sorry to hear about your poetry book, I hope it didn’t get damaged too much. Did Misha sign it? I’m not sure I read that he did… Did I skip a page? Have to go back and see.
That Dessert Party -thing sucked. They really weren’t thinking. Nothing’s more soothing and relaxing background music than a heavy rock band 😀
But despite of this, you had a great time so it doesn’t sound that bad. Everything can’t be a success you know, our heads would explode from all the seething jealousy 😀
Thank you, a lot, and off to the last part!
‘Facers verses ‘Gators, what could be more perfect!
Jas, you’re a star and if this comes off I shall shower you in gratitude and eggs benidict ( or possibly just a double helping of gratitude as it would be a lot less sticky and I’m not 100% sure what eggs benidict actually are anyway … ) 😀
Sorry I’m a bit late to the party but I got stuck in Crete with the ash and the planes and all that flaffing about ( hard life, I know … 😆 )
Supernarttu and Delighted Suze, I’m also very late to responding to your lovely comments.
Dearest Viking, so happy I could give you something here – and thank you so much for your continuing support
Suze… Let’s hope the zombie gators come off… I just thought of you and had to mention it… Happy if it put a smile on your face!
Cheers, Jas
Ok, so where is this report on the Facer meeting!?
And I nearly choked when you called Kurt a cracker. So unexpected and innocent…awww. (It’s a racial slur here in the States toward whites. Not a lot of punch to it since whites are the majority but… :mrgreen:-)
So sad that your book was spilled on!
Delighted to hear you had such a great encounter(s) with Jim Beaver. I bought his book a short while ago and it’s near the top of my ‘to read’ stack.
Love Cas but can’t say I’m a big Misha fan. Least not like I am with the boys. Everything I’ve heard about him is positive if mostly nutty. I’d actually love to meet his wife since I find the spouses of those who tend toward nuttiness to be fantastic people.
Yvonne, dear, now that I didn’t know – that cracker means something so different in the US, what an innocent mistake, indeed. In Britain it means something like a great guy… I hope Mr Fuller didn’t read this and felt offended….
You should read that book Jim Beaver wrote. It’s so warm, kind, sad and moving, what a fascinating and dear human being.
Thank you so much! Hugs, Jas
P.S.: the ghostfacers report is to be found here:https://www.thewinchesterfamilybusiness.com/news-and-announcements/news-and-announcements/7441-ghostfacers-ready-to-break-loose-with-spinoff-.html