EMCon: Where comics meets community spirit at the East Meadow library

Lovers of comics, anime, sci-fi, pop culture and more found a place to enjoy everything at the annual EMCon, held on April 20 and 21 at the East Meadow Public Library.

Like larger comic conventions, EMCon boasts an array of workshops, meet-and-greets and contests. Despite the similarities, returning guests and contributors love the size and intimacy of their own comic-con, right in the heart of East Meadow.

The weekend-long event was emceed this year by a dancer, entertainer and visual artist from New Jersey named “Peace.” He brought an infectious energy and style to his performance. He’s entertained crowds for years at various anime cons — stamping each one, including East Meadow’s, with his memorable brand of fun.

On both Saturday and Sunday, there was an artists block, so those visiting could meet extraordinarily talented artists who create things in the anime and manga styles. Many had their work for sale, along with original comics and additional merchandise.

Along with the artists block, there was a variety of workshops attendees could take part in, including a humor writing workshop led by Francis Bonnet, and a makeup workshop, led by Karen Gebbia.

And for the second year in a row, Mark Torres, who hosts “It Came From the Radio,” at the East Meadow library once a month, presented “Designated: The Radio Play,” a comic book adapted into a play, specifically for the radio. Guests could pick up a copy of the book beforehand, and read along with the show.

Musical guests, meet ups with performers, costume contests and more all made this year’s EMCon one to remember. For more on future events — or one’s like EMCon — visit EastMeadow.info.