A Trek to Ticonderoga

Nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks, the cleverly named Trekonderoga is a highly unique comic convention. Located in Ticonderoga, New York, the event not only boasts celebrities, vendors, reminiscences, discussions and a perfect reincarnation of Star Trek’s USS Enterprise (built using the original blueprints from the series – which is celebrating its 50^th year), but also features the rich history and striking natural surroundings at the heart of the small locale. Misty mountains, lush green forests, a rapidly flowing miniature waterfall, the impressive structure that is Fort Ticonderoga, historic buildings and other forms of beautiful nature are all found in the location that straddles both Lake George and Lake Champlain.

The cozy three day event, which feels more laid back and homey than so many of the gargantuan ‘cons’, boasted the two stars of 2001: A Space Odyssey – Keir Dullea and Gary Lockwood. Both actors have had long careers, featuring wonderful roles in both television and film. Dullea also starred in the classic Otto Preminger movie Bunny Lake is Missing as well as the iconic Canadian horror flick Black Christmas, to name just two of his other lasting roles. Lockwood had an important role in the pilot episode of Star Trek, had a turn in the memorable Elia Kazan motion picture Splendor in the Grass, and also co-starred with Elvis in It Happened at the World’s Fair. They are featured in the top right image, where Gary Lockwood can be seen speaking while Keir Dullea intently listens at their hour and a half talk titled: 2001 Memories.

I also had the chance to spend some time with Felix Silla. Though perhaps not recognizable by name or face, the man has played a huge role in film history – mostly behind costume and mask. A few performances that may surprise you include Cousin Itt on the original Addams Family, Twiki in Buck Rogers, as well as stunt work on E.T. the Extraterrestrial and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. Keep your eyes open for upcoming articles featuring the three men that will look at their expansive careers as well as some of their favourite films. Each will also include a video interview that will take you behind the scenes, letting you in on film secrets, filling you in on how directors like Stanley Kubrick, Otto Preminger and Steven Spielberg work with their actors, as well as many other interesting tidbits that can only be found here at Filmizon.com.

It was also great to catch up with actresses Beverly Washburn, Louise Sorel and BarBara Luna. I interviewed the three women at CAPE Cornwall back in April, and it was so much fun meeting up with them once again – continuing our discussions from last time.

Though I only made it to the event for Saturday, I must say that I enjoyed my time at the second annual event. Though not large in stature, it makes up for it with small town charm, hospitality and a tight-knit feeling. It thrives because of its size, with it feeling perfectly manageable (you will not feel overcrowded, overheated, or overwhelmed). It has a charming atmosphere that only small town America can bring.

I want to thank the Trekonderoga staff for being so helpful – they truly bent over backwards to make the event run smoothly (while also aiding me along the way – providing me with the perfect backdrop to film in depth interviews with the stars). Though I beamed out of Ticonderoga yesterday evening, I look forward to making the trek once again next year – hopefully the event will continue to live long and prosper.