ANSWERS to FAQs - Regularly updated with show info Options

[Too Tall]

Some things are in the FAQ Section so please also look there before posting. If what you want to know isn't there or below, please do have a look at the previous threads to make sure it's not been asked and answered before. If not then please post I'm sure someone will know the answer

What I've tried to do is fill in some of the gaps:

If there's a quick answer I've given it in this first post. See the following sections for further information on each question.

1 - BEFORE THE SHOW:
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It's my first LFCC I have no idea what I should do...HELP?

1.1 - Show Info:
When is it?
What are the opening times?
Where is it?
How much is?
Will there be any more guests?
Can I pre-order an autograph, as I can't make it to the show?

1.2 - Ticket info:
Can I buy entry and talk tickets in advance?
What are gold passes and how do I get one?
What if my (entry, gold pass or photo shoot) ticket doesn't arrive?
Is it worth pre-booking a ticket?
What cards are taken at the online shop?

2 - ON THE DAY:
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2.1 - Autograph info:
How much are the guests autographs and what days will they be there?
How much are the 8x10 pictures that the show provides?
Is there a lower price for autographs on personal items?
How many autographs can I get at once?
What ways can I pay for an autograph?
What pictures will a guest have?
Are there any restrictions on what items can be signed?

2.2 - Organising your day:
I have an issue, what do I do?
What's the basic layout of the hall for LFCC?
Can I come and go as I want? - Yes
How busy will INSERT GUEST NAME be, so what time should I get there?
What are the guests like? A WARNING!!
What time do the guests arrive?
What time do the guests have lunch?
What time do the guests stop signing?

2.3 - Queuing inside and out:
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Where do I queue outside before the event, and how do the queues work?
What are Vitrual Queues and Virtual Tickets and how do they work?
What time are Virtual Tickets given out?
How much are Virtual Tickets?
Can I get a Virtual Ticket for a friend?
If I get a Virtual Ticket for a guest and don't get to see them can I use it the next day?

2.4 - Seeing the guests:
Can I have a photo with a guest when I get an autograph and will the guests be doing personalisations?
Can I go up with my friend/partner/child to see the guest, I'm not getting an autograph?
Can I see a guest without paying for an autograph?
What should I say to a guest and how should I act?
Can I give a guest a present?

3 - PHOTO SHOOTS:
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What photo shoots are there and how much are they?
How it works!
Does this mean I can’t take a picture of the guest during the autograph session?
What happens if it doesn’t come out for some other reason?
Where will it be?
Where do you get the tickets?
How many tickets can I buy at once?
Can my friend and I both be in the same picture?
Can I order extra prints?
What time will the prints be ready?
How many tickets will be sold?
What if my ticket doesn't arrive?
The Small Print

4 - TALKS:
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What talks will there be?
Where do I get talk tickets from?
When do talk tickets start being given out?
Can I get my friend a ticket, or do they have to queue up as well?
How much are the talks?
How many talk tickets are there and how fast do they go?
I'm only going on Sunday, will all the tickets go on Saturday for the Sunday talks?
Where will the talks be?
Are the talk tickets seat numbered?
What time should I get to a talk?
Can I stay in my seat if I have a ticket for the next talk?
Can I get autographs at the talks?
Can I have photos with the guests at the talks?

5 - USEFUL INFO:
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Where can I stay?
Where can I eat?
Where can I park?
Which tube station is best for LFCC (Earls Court 2)?
Which airport is best for Earls Court?
Where can I put my luggage on the first day?

6 - DISABLED INFO:
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Advice for disabled people who are planning to attend an event!

7 - OTHER:
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How can I meet other forum members?
I want to crew an SM event?
What do the stalls sell and what are the prices like?
Can I use Scottish or Northern Irish money at the event?

UPDATES and COMMENTS:

If you have any new questions or think something I've put is incorrect please do post so that I can keep this as accurate as possible.

Also if it's helped you please post. It'll be nice to know it's been worth doing

This post has been edited by Too Tall: Nov 27 2007, 04:39 PM

[Too Tall]

1 - BEFORE THE SHOW:

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It's my first LFCC I have no idea what I should do...HELP?

The main thing is don't be too worried and don't panic. Some people see 15-20 guests in a day. Yes there are queues but if you're sensible about it you will see everyone you want to. You just need to make sure you get there at a reasonable time if you want to see any of the big stars. See "How busy will INSERT GUEST NAME be, so what time should I get there?" for more info.

The basic plan:

1: Make a list of who you want to see from the LFCC website

2: Sort that list on who you think will be the busiest. So most popular first. You may have someone that's not so popular but you REALLY want to meet so you bump them up the list. It's also a good idea to try and group guests from the same film/series together as they will very likely be sat next to each other.

So you won't want to have (This is just an example, these guests were at C7):
James Marster (Buffy/Angel)
Sean Astin (LOTR)
Alexis Denisof (Angel)
John Ryes Davis (LOTR)
Because Sean and John would be sat next to each other and so would James and Alexis. You'd move Alexis up one so you got them at the same time.

3: Check if there are any talks you want to go to. Remember that there are only 100 talk tickets per talk so they can go quickly.

4: Try and get to the Show for the opening time. And an hour before the opening time if you have 3 or 4 big names on your list like the one above.

5: Once you get in, don't look at the stalls. Go straight to the ends of the queues (or to the talk ticket table) in the order on your list and get the Talk Tickets/Virtual Tickets (VTs are explained below).

Note: With some minor guests they won't have VTs. Don't worry about this it's because they won't have much of a queue all day. You can come back at anytime to get them.

6: Go and get your talk tickets.

7: Once you have VTs for everyone you want and your talk tickets you can then relax, walk around the stalls and get a coffee.

8: Wait for your VT numbers to come up. When they do, go get those autos

Note: If you know you're going to want items personalised it's a really good idea to bring a piece of paper with your name clearly written/printed on it. This way you can give it to the guest and there is no chance of spelling mistakes.

Note: As a lot of the guests are £15 SM run out of £5 notes very quickly. So it's always very helpful if you bring along as many £5s as you can.

Note: Some guests will have talks and obviously this means they will have less time for signing, also you don't want to turn up when they've gone for their talk. So do check to see if a guest is doing a talk (Of course you may want to go to it).

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1.1 - Show Info:
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When is it?

18-th19th July 2009

What are the opening times?

Saturday - 9am to 6pm
Sunday - 9am to 5pm

THE 2009 SHOW WILL OPEN AT 9AM ON THE SUNDAY!!!!!

Where is it?

Earls Court 2, London

>>Take a look at this map<<

How much is?

SATURDAY ADMISSION: Early Bird £10 (Entry from 9am to 11am)
Standard Entry (11am to 6pm) Adults £5, Children £3 (Under 12)
SUNDAY ADMISSION: Early Bird £10 (Entry from 10am to 11am)
Standard Entry (11am to 5pm) Adults £5, Children £3 (Under 12)

Note: There is no child price for Early Bird tickets.

Gold Passes £175 (For more info on Gold Passes see "What are gold passes and how do I get one?" below)

Will there be any more guests?

There is normally a minimum of 30 guests at the show (not including any extra reunions).

Please don't post "Is that all the guests?" as SM will never say YES. As there is always the chance of extra guests at the last minute. So please don't ask.

Can I pre-order an autograph, as I can't make it to the show?

MSPG is one of the show sponsers and they do a pre-order service on most guests at SM events for people that can't make it to the show. The autograph will be sent to you after the show. MSPG charge £10 on top of the SM price for this service. Here is the MSPG website.

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1.2 - Ticket Info:
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Can I buy entry and talk tickets in advance?

To order tickets click here

Note: Child tickets are not available in advance.

Note: Tickets are only available in advance up until 2 weeks before the show.

You can also buy entry tickets (including early bird tickets) on the door.

Talk tickets are free but available only at the event it's self, from the organisers booth.

What are gold passes and how do I get one?

A Gold Pass is like a VIP pass to a Showmasters event. There are only 100 sold per show.

Note: They are not available after 2 weeks before the show.

They are £175 and to buy a Gold Pass >>CLICK HERE<<

What a Gold Pass includes:

1. Entrance to the show - Entrance to the show both days is included and is through a shorter queue, purchasing a Gold Pass means you will then get to queue in the pre paid queue rather then the larger main queue.

2. Talk Tickets - A ticket for each talk (free and charged-for) will be available free of charge. Tickets will be held back for any Gold Pass Patrons, and will be available to collect during the event. Priority seating will also be given to Gold Pass Patrons, who will be able to enter the seating area before the main queue.

3. Autograph Queues - Gold Pass Patrons will have the advantage of being ABLE TO JOIN THE BACK OF ANY QUEUE WITHOUT HAVING A VIRTUAL QUEUING TICKET! This is the major advantage of the Gold Pass, it will cut down your overall waiting time incredibly and allows a great deal more to be done over the weekend. As you may know the busier guests at Showmasters events have virtual tickets (Please read "What are Virtual tickets?" in section 2 for more info). Having a gold pass is like having VT No.1 for all the guests.

4. An autograph pack of a number of autographs from your chosen theme: Lord Of The Rings, Star Wars, Harry Potter, Star Trek, Buffy & Angel, Stargate, Cult TV or Cult Film.

5. Assistance - If you have any problems concerning your Gold Pass you will be able to contact a dedicated crew member who will be available to help you at the show.

Note: There are no IN PERSON autographs included in the price of the Gold Pass.

Note: Gold passes are NOT sent to you but are picked up on the day of the event. You will be sent a letter a couple of weeks before the event. You take that letter to the show to get your gold pass and goody bags. Don't worry, if the letter does not arrive just bring along proof of purchase. i.e. The confirmation email you got when you booked and/or your bank statement with the transaction shown. Although the letter is sent registered post (has to be signed for) and so is unlikely to go missing. When you get there just go to the Gold Pass holders queue and there will be a member of crew there to help you.

Note: It can take up to 2 months for the Photo CD to be sent to you.

What if my (entry, gold pass or photo shoot) ticket doesn't arrive?

Tickets (and gold pass letters) are normally sent out a week before the event by registered post (i.e. you have to sign for them). So don't panic 2-3 weeks out thinking you've been missed. If in the unlikely event you don't get your tickets before you leave for the event, see below:

Entry tickets (early-bird or normal) - Bring along proof of purchase i.e. The confirmation email you got when you booked and your bank/credit card statement with the transaction shown (if you booked by phone just bring the bank statement). When you get there join the pre-paid queue and there will be extra crew at the doors to deal with this problem, don't worry you will get in.

Gold Pass - Gold passes are NOT sent to you but are picked up on the day of the event. You will be sent a letter a couple of weeks before the event. Don't worry, if the letter does not arrive just bring along proof of purchase. i.e. The confirmation email you got when you booked and your bank/credit card statement with the transaction shown. Although the letter is sent registered post (has to be signed for) and so is unlikely to go missing. When you get there just go to the Gold Pass holders queue and there will be a member of crew there to help you.

Photo Shoot - Bring along proof of purchase i.e. The confirmation email you got when you booked and your bank/credit card statement with the transaction shown and go to the organisers booth once you are in the show. They will help you.

Is it worth pre-booking a ticket?

I've not known the events to get sold out, so there is no worries you won't get a ticket on the day. So the advantages I see are 2 fold.

1: Is peace of mind that you have got you tickets and are ready to go, no faffing about at the entrance, you can just go straight in.

2: Is you get in quicker on the day.

Although both queues are allowed to start entering at the same time, obviously the pre-booked queue moves ALOT quicker as people just need to show their tickets and walk in, were as the Pay-on-the-day queue people have to pay.

If you're intending to arrive 1.5+ hours before your entry time (Early-bird Sat before 7:30am, Standard Sat before 9:30am, Early-bird Sun before 8:30am, Standard Sun before 9:30am) then the advantage isn't going to be much. You'll only have maybe 20 to 50 people in front of you so you'll get in maybe 5 minutes quicker by having a pre-booked ticket.

If you're intending to arrive at about the opening time (Early-bird Sat 9am, Standard Sat 11am, Early-bird Sun before 10am, Standard Sun before 11am)) then you'll probably have 300-500 people in front of you and you'll get in about 15-20 minutes quicker with a pre-booked ticket.

If you're intending to arrive 30+ minutes after the opening time (Early-bird Sat after 9:30am, Standard Sat after 11:30am, Early-bird Sun before 10:30am, Standard Sun before 11:30am)) you'll lose any time advantage of having pre-booked.

At the end of the day it's up to you.

What cards are taken at the online shop?

VISA
Mastercard
Switch
Solo
Delta
Amex
Maestro

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This post has been edited by Too Tall: Jul 28 2009, 08:17 AM

[Too Tall]

2 - ON THE DAY:

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2.1 - Autograph Info:
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How much are the guests autographs and what days will they be there?

At previous LFCCs most of the guests have signed both days. But this is NOT a guarantee, do check the website.

Note: The guests days are normally update 2 weeks before the show.

Showmasters have always updated the LFCC website and don't answer posts on the forum. So just keep an eye on the website. SM will update the website once a guests days are confirmed.

Do keep an eye on the forum and website on the run up to the event as they can and do change. If there is a major change at the last minute SM normally post on the forum as well as changing the website.

The list below includes the days guests will be attending, as per the announcements so far on the main LFCC website.

Firstly all autograph prices are PER AUTOGRAPH, you get ONE autograph for the price shown. With each autograph bought you get a FREE show provided 8x10 picture. You can have this or your own item signed, it is the same price.

A specific price list MAYBE posted by SM (but if it is it's normally not posted until 2 weeks before the event), so until then the rule of thumb is that guests will be £15 or £20. On some rare occasions some have been £10 or £25. So it is best to budget for £20 per guest and then you wouldn't go wrong.

For a more precise price go to the MSPG website. They normally have most of the guests on there as a pre-order. They add £10 onto the autograph price on the day. e.g. If they are asking for £25, the guest will be £15 on the day.

This price list is based upon the MSPG pre-order price (-£10) or if the guest isn't on the MSPG website it's based on my own experience, so is not a definitive price list but is here as a guide to the prices on the day. Saying that, it's normally pretty accurate, only one or two guests will be wrong and only by £5. Also includes the days the guests will be attending as per the announcements so far on the main LFCC website.

Baker, Tom - days TBA - £15
Bakula, Scott - Sat & Sun - TBC
Boxleitner, Bruce - days TBA - £15
Collins, Mike - days TBA - TBC
Courtney, Nick - days TBA - £10
Couvela, Paul - days TBA - TBC
Facinelli, Peter - Sat & Sun - £15
Furlong, Edward - days TBA - £15
Gilsig, Jessalyn - days TBA - £15
Ironside, Michael - days TBA - £15
Jimenez, Phil - days TBA - TBC
Mayhew, Peter - days TBA - £15
Mignogna, Vic - days TBA - TBC
Myles, Eve - days TBA - £20
Park, Ray - Sat & Sun - £15
Ramamurthy, Sendhil - days TBA - £15
Rankin, Robert - days TBA - TBC
Shanks, Michael - Sat & Sun - £20
Spencer, Spike - days TBA - TBC
Staite, Jewel - days TBA - £15
Suydam, Arthur - days TBA - TBC

Note: As a lot of the guests are £15 SM run out of £5 notes very quickly. So it's always very helpful if you bring along as many £5s as you can.

How much are the 8x10 pictures that the show provides?

The 8x10 pictures that the show provides for signing are FREE. They are primarily for those people who do not have a personal item of their own to get signed; usually, if there are spare, you can get an 8x10 picture free when you buy an autograph, though Showmasters may decline to do so if giving one to someone who doesn't want it signed might mean they will run out, leaving other fans with nothing to get signed.

Is there a lower price for autographs on personal items?

No, the price shown is per autograph. This is the same price for either personal items or the show provided pictures.

Comic artists set their own price. They may sign for free, but will charge for sketches.

How many autographs can I get at once?

The max number of autographs is 5 per person. Please remember all autograph prices are PER AUTOGRAPH, you get ONE autograph for the price shown.

If you want more than 5, then you can either go up when the queue is quiet and then the crew will normally allow you to have up to 7 or 8. Or simply queue multiple times and get up to 5 each time.

What ways can I pay for an autograph?

Cash - You pay the crew member at the guests desk.

Cheque - You give a cheque to the crew member at the guests desk made payable to Showmasters Ltd. Cheques must be accompanied by a cheque guarantee card.

Credit Card - You can pay for autographs by credit card at the organisers booth. Please make sure you get all your Virtual Tickets before you join the credit card payment queue.

What pictures will a guest have?

SM do not post what pictures a guest will have in advance. There are reasons for this that I'm not going to go into. When you get there you can ask to see the pictures and if there are none you like you could go and buy one. There are always lots of stalls with good quality 8x10 photos. Saying that it's always a good idea that if you want a specific image signed, get it in advance and bring it with you.

Are there any restrictions on what items can be signed?

It really depends on the guest. Some are very picky some aren't. Basically if you THINK there is a CHANCE the guest will not sign your item. e.g. It's not official, it's a nude/semi-nude picture. Then make sure you have a back up.

You may want to bring along another item or picture with you but do remember when you pay for an autograph you are entitled to one of the guests 8x10 pictures for free. So do take one, that way if the guest will not sign your item for whatever reason you have the picture to be signed instead.

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2.2 - Organising your day:
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I have an issue, what do I do?

If it's something minor, the first thing to do is talk to a member of the crew. They're pretty easy to spot and they'll do all they can to help. If they can't they'll escalate it.

If it's something pretty serious then go to the organisers booth. One of the shows organisers is always on hand there to sort out any problems you may have. Be it a problem with a stall holder, a crew member or a lost bag.

Sending Showmasters an emails or posting on the forum later isn't very constructive as it's normally too late for them to do anything about it. Please do go straight to the organisers booth as soon as possible so that they have a chance to rectify the problem.

What's the basic layout of the hall for LFCC?

This has completely changed for this years LFCC. Once the layout is confirmed this section will be updated.

Can I come and go as I want?

When you leave for the first time you will be given a stamp on the back of your hand so that you can leave and re-enter as many times as you like.

How busy will INSERT GUEST NAME be, so what time should I get there?

The honest answer is no one knows for sure. Below is a list of all the guests going to LFCC so far and I've put them into groups of how busy I believe they will be, and so what time you should get to the show to make sure you meet them. This is only my best guess.

GROUP 1 - Will be busy so you should be there by 11:00am to get VTs. Arrive after 11:00am and it's possible you'll not get to see them:

Bakula, Scott

GROUP 2 - Will have VTs up to about 300-600 but will likely have an open queue by 4pm. As long as you're at the show for about 6 hours (9-3, 10-4, 11-5) you'll very likely see them:

Boxleitner, Bruce
Facinelli, Peter
Furlong, Edward
Ironside, Michael
Myles, Eve
Ramamurthy, Sendhil
Shanks, Michael
Staite, Jewel

GROUP 3 - May not need VTs (and if they do it'll be up to 300 max) and will have an open queue for most of the day, especially in the afternoon. There will be no problems seeing them:

Baker, Tom
Collins, Mike
Courteney, Nicholas
Couvela, Paul
Gilsig, Jessalyn
Jimenez, Phil
Mayhew, Peter
Mignogna, Vic
Park, Ray
Spencer, Spike
Suydam, Arthur

Personally if I want to see a guest I know will be in GROUP 1 or 2 then I will always try and be at the show an hour before opening time.

The main thing is you don't HAVE to be there at 4:00. As long as you are there by the shows opening time you will get to meet the big guest you want to. You may just have to wait until the afternoon. Saying that if you want to meet 3 or 4 of the big guests you should think about getting there an hour before the shows opening time.

WARNING - If you want to see any of the guests in GROUP 1 and you don't arrive until 3 hours after the show opening time you will very likely be disappointed.

What are the guests like? A WARNING!!

The guests are only human. I'm not going to get into the "They get paid to be there they should be nice to everyone" argument. They have bad days just like the rest of us. Most of the guests are very nice and polite, but do be aware the guests will not always live up to your expectations and might be grumpy, not talkative or even just sign your picture without looking up at you. Basically it's always safer to start with low expectations rather than expecting the world and being upset when you don't get it.

Saying this though, don't forget that we all react better to a smile than a frown. Go up to the guest smiling and looking happy to meet them and you're more likely to get a good response in return.

What time do the guests arrive?

Normally this is 10am, but can and does change.

What time do the guests have lunch?

Guests go for lunch anytime between about 12:00 and 14:00 for about an hour. So don't worry if they're not there. They'll be back.

What time do the guests stop signing?

As a norm if a guest is busy they will continue signing until about 17:30. But it is not a good idea to leave it this late. Sometimes if a guests queue goes quiet they will leave at about 16:30. So as a rule of thumb don't leave it until after 16:30 to join a guests queue.

One other thing to be aware of is guests will have talks and obviously this means they will have less time for signing, also you don't want to turn up when they've gone for their talk. So do check to see if a guest is doing a talk (Of course you may want to go to it).

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This post has been edited by Queen_Sindel: Apr 3 2009, 10:42 AM

[Too Tall]

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2.3 - Queuing inside and out:
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Where do I queue outside before the event, and how do the queues work?

There will be 3 queues at the main entrance to Earls Court One (you can't miss it), there will be signs on the doors as to which queue is to enter through which door.

Q1: Gold pass holders.

Q2: Pre-Booked tickets.

Q3: Pay-on-the-day tickets.

SATURDAY....
At 9am the doors open:
Q1: Will be let in first.
Q2: Those with early-bird tickets will go straight in.
Q3: Those wanting early-bird tickets will go to the ticket desk to buy tickets.

At 11am:
Q2: Those with normal tickets will go straight in.
Q3: Those wanting normal tickets will go to the ticket desk to buy tickets.

SUNDAY....
At 10am the doors open:
Q1: Will be let in first.
Q2: Those with early-bird tickets will go straight in.
Q3: Those wanting early-bird tickets will go to the ticket desk to buy tickets.

At 11am:
Q2: Those with normal tickets will go straight in.
Q3: Those wanting normal tickets will go to the ticket desk to buy tickets.

What are Vitrual Queues and Virtual Tickets and how do they work?

To help cut down the amount of time you have to spend standing in a queue SM have introduced a virtual queuing system. When you go to meet one of the busier guests, instead of everyone standing in an "real" queue you will be handed a ticket with a number on it (your Virtual Ticket). This number is your position in the "virtual" queue. Only around 30 people stand in the "real" queue. You can join this "real" queue once your position in the "virtual" queue is reached. Think of it like taking a number in a doctors waiting room. You will know your position is reached when your Virtual Ticket number is called.

This system means once you have your VT for a guest you are free to wander around the event, join other queues and get other VTs.

This system is only used on the busier guests, for the quieter guests you will just join the "real" queue straight away.

Note: You do not pay for the Virtual Tickets they are free. You pay per autograph when you come back and join the "real" queue.

Note: Virtual Tickets are given out ONE PER PERSON, you will only be given one ticket. If you want to get a ticket for a friend there is nothing stopping you from joining the queue again and getting another ticket Just remember it will only be one ticket for each time you queue up.

Note: Only a ticket holder will be able to join the queue once their number is called. If you are planning to accompany someone (to take photographs or help carry bags, etc) you will still need a ticket, even if you are not planning on getting an autograph yourself. This does also apply to adults accompanying children.

Virtual Ticket numbers for guests will be announced (in batches of around 30) once the previous group of people in the "real" queue have their autographs.

Once your Virtual Ticket number is called you can then join the much smaller "real" queue. There will of course still be some queuing involved in the "real" queue! If you don't want to have to keep going back to the guests queue to see what number they are up to, you can check one of the white boards around the hall. These are kept up to date every 15 minutes or so.

The numbers shown are for any number UPTO that number. You can go up anytime after your number is called. So if you have ticket number 100 and the board is showing 200, this is fine, you haven't missed your turn.

What time are Virtual Tickets given out?

Virtual Tickets start to be given out at the shows opening time and not before.

How much are Virtual Tickets?

You do not pay for the Virtual Tickets they are free. You pay per autograph when you come back and join the "real" queue.

Can I get a Virtual Ticket for a friend?

No, Virtual Tickets are given out ONE PER PERSON, you will only be given one ticket. If you want to get a ticket for a friend there is nothing stopping you from joining the queue again and getting another ticket Just remember it will only be one ticket for each time you queue up.

If I get a Virtual Ticket for a guest and don't get to see them can I use it the next day?

No, Virtual Tickets are only valid on the day you are given them.

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2.4 - Seeing the guests:
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Can I have a photo with a guest when I get an autograph and will the guests be doing personalisations?

The simple answer is "normally YES" but there is no guarantee of getting either, see below for more info.

Note: There is no extra charge for either.

The norm is posed photos - The guest gets up and puts there arm around you. Sometimes there will be a member of the crew there to take the photo for you. If not ask someone in the queue behind you.

Sometimes if the guest is very busy a sign "No posed photos" will be put up at the end of the queue and behind the guest. You may take photos of the guest whilst they are signing your item but the guest will not pose with you for a shot.

Rarely there will be no photos. Again there will be a sign saying "No photos" at the end of the queue and behind the guest. This means no photos including from the queue. This can be because of time, but more likely at the request of the guest.

As a norm guests do personalisations (i.e. add your name or a quote). However again sometimes it is necessary for there to be no personalisations. Due to the guest being busy etc. If for any reason a guest is not doing personalisations there will be a sign up at the end of their queue and behind them at the signing desk.

No personalisations, no posed photos and no photos can happen with guests in Group 1 (see "How busy will INSERT GUEST NAME be, so what time should I get there?" for the groups) and sometimes guests in Group 2. But obviously any guest may ask for no photos for some other reason like a headache.

The signs (photo and personalisations) can and do change thoughout the day, so do check for the signs when you go up to get your autograph, as they may have changed since you got your VT.

Please do remember that the signs are there for a reason, don't try and ignore them because the crew will have to intervene and it can get very embarrassing for all (especially the guest).

If you are really desperate only to have a personalised autograph and/or posed photo, and wouldn't bother otherwise, and it's a big guest so they are likely to be busy. You can do one of two things, to give yourself a better chance of getting a personalised autograph and/or posed photo.

1: Get there as early as you possibly can, and be in the first 100 or so.

2: Leave it to the end of the day (4-4:30pm) when queues may have died down. But remember not to leave it too late (after 4:30pm) as if they're quiet the guest may leave. You are very likely to still need a VT, so do get one by 10am at the latest.

If you know you're going to want items personalised it's a really good idea to bring a piece of paper with your name clearly written/printed on it. This way you can give it to the guest and there is no chance of spelling mistakes.

Can I go up with my friend/partner/child to see the guest, I'm not getting an autograph?

The answer is yes. But please be aware that if it is not an open queue you WILL need your own VT. Without a VT you will not be allowed to join the queue with your friend/partner/child. They are free so please make sure you take one when your friend/partner does. This does also apply to adults accompanying children.

Can I see a guest without paying for an autograph?

Note: This applies to both having a chat or just taking a photo!

Firstly the best thing to do is (as above) to go up with someone that is getting an autograph. Please be aware that if it's not an open queue you will need your own VT to join the queue.

If you don't have someone who's getting an autograph to go up with, then the follow guide lines apply:

For guests with a seperate photo table, as long as they have no queue, please go and ask the member of crew at the end of the queue, or on the photo table. The crew will be able to tell you at the time if it's OK for you to go and speak to the guest.

For minor guests without a separate photo table feel free to chat to the guest, but again only if there is no queue.

Three things to remember if you're going up without someone buying an autograph:

1: Paying customers have priority, so if you're talking to a guest and a paying customer arrives you should move along straight away.

2: Virtual Tickets are for people wanting autographs, please don't take them if you just want to meet the guest. Even with a VT you will not be allowed into the queue without paying for an autograph. As I've said above if there is NO queue then you can ask if it's OK.

3: The show is there to make money, it's how we get such good guests in the first place. So do not take it personally if the crew says no. There can be reasons that are not obvious to you as to why they've had to say no.

What should I say to a guest and how should I act?

The main thing to remember is THEY ARE ONLY HUMAN. Yes they've been on TV or in a film but they're no different to you or I. What would you say to someone you meet in the pub? Just be yourself.

So a good start is:

Hi, I'm YOUR NAME. It's nice to meet you, how are you today?

Not a good start:

Wibble...*stare*...*giggle*...*run*

How friendly you can or should be with the guests is obviously a personal thing to both you and the guest. Like with anyone you meet you can normally gauge if someone is going to like personal interaction or not. Just use your common sense. If the guest looks happy and bouncy and you want to hug or kiss the guest. Ask nicely and maybe you'll be lucky. Pretty much all the guests are happy to shake your hand, so just put it out there

You may have a specific question you want to ask. Just ask it.
If not, you can always use the old tried and tested ones:

What are you working on at the moment?
Did you enjoy working on xxxxxx?
Do you keep in touch with anyone from xxxxxx?
What's your favourite episode/scene from xxxxxx?
Do you enjoy doing events like this?
If they're from the US - How do the UK events compare to the US ones?

If you hadn't guessed you may want to replace xxxxxx with the name of the film or program you liked them in

Can I give a guest a present?

There is no problem with giving gifts. Please do be aware that the guests rarely take these things with them when they leave.

Basically don't waste your money on anything too expensive. Either go for something they may like to eat or drink (sweets, chocolate, beer, but not home made things as they're unlikely to eat them as they won't know what's in them). Or give them something different and personal. I know one girl on here that gives people vegetables. Sounds odd but they remember her and that's the point really, you want them to remember you from the crowd.

Trust me you'll get the same positive reaction out of a £1 bag of sweets or a 4 pack of beer as you will out of a £10 generic teddy bear and they're more likely to enjoy the sweets, than to take the bear home.

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This post has been edited by Too Tall: Jul 23 2007, 12:39 PM

[Too Tall]

3 - PHOTO SHOOTS:

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What photo shoots are there and how much are they?

Saturday:

Baker, Tom - £ 15
Bakula, Scott - £ 25
Boxleitner, Bruce - £ 15
Facinelli, Peter - £ 15
Gilsig, Jessalyn - £ 15
Park, Ray - £ 15
Ramamurthy, Sendhil - £ 15
Shanks, Michael - £ 15

Sunday:

Bakula, Scott - £ 25
Facinelli, Peter - £ 15
Furlong, Edward - £ 15
Ironside, Michael - £ 15
Mayhew, Peter - £ 15
Park, Ray - £ 15
Shanks, Michael - £ 15
Staite, Jewel - £ 15



Times for the photo shoots will be announced more close to the date.

Most guests will do one photo session per weekend. Additional shoots on other days may be added if a photo session is close to selling out or sold out.

Photo session tickets are not numbered. You only get in line and wait for your turn.

For extremely busy sessions tickets may be colour coded. This will be announced here on the forum and also on signs near the photo areas.

How it works:

1) Your photo will be taken by a professional photographer.
2) The shot will be taken in front of a backdrop and with lighting to ensure the best possible image.
3) You will be standing beside the guest, and not leaning over a table.
4) Your picture will be a 6” by 9” colour photo (not an inkjet print) and, all being equal, should be ready for collection a couple of hours after the shoot finishes.
5) It will come with a mount to keep it safe and nice.
6) All of this combined should provide you with something unique and special.

Does this mean I can’t take a picture of the guest during the autograph session?

No, there will be no restriction on taking posed photos at their autograph table because of the photo shoots. The photo shoot is purely an added extra for those that would like it.

There is of course the chance that due to time constraints or the guests wishes that posed photos will be stopped at their autograph table.

NOTE: Please be aware that what it says on the on-line shop is not correct. The above is correct.

What happens if it doesn’t come out for some other reason?

Then you will get a full refund.

Where will it be?

They will be within the main hall. See What's the basic layout of the hall for LFCC? in section 2.2 - Organising your day: for the location of photo shoots.

Where do you get the tickets?

Pre-sold from the online shop or on the day if any are still available.

If buying your tickets in the online shop please be aware that VAT is added at check out, prices in the overview are showing without VAT.

How many tickets can I buy at once?

There is no limit on the number you can buy. You can buy more than 1, i.e. for friends or others without internet access.

Although if you're thinking you'll buy 20 to get more time with the guest(s), you should remember that its the moving people in and out of shot which takes time - photographing two stationery people 20 times takes a lot less time than photographing 20 different couples.

Can my friend and I both be in the same picture?

The simple answer is yes, but you will both have to have a ticket. It is one ticket per person! You can then pose together in two photos and one copy of each will be developed.

If you buy only one ticket you CAN NOT have two people in the one shot!

Note: No more than 2 people will be allowed in the shot.

Can I order extra prints?

No

What time will the prints be ready?

Barring unforeseen etc, same day.

How many tickets will be sold?

Around 400.

The Small Print:
Showmasters reserves the right to refuse anyone from taking part in the photo shoot; if payment has already been made then we will refund them.
While it is SMs intention to have all photos developed and back within a couple of hours of the photo shoot ending, if for any reason the photos are delayed then SM will distribute them later in the day. Any uncollected on Saturday will also be available the next day, and if someone has to leave before their photo is available because of any such delay, it will be posted out to them so long as they leave their name and address.

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This post has been edited by Queen_Sindel: Apr 3 2009, 10:16 AM

[Too Tall]

4 - TALKS:

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What talks will there be?

The majority of talks are FREE

TBA

Each free talk is for half an hour, with a gap afterwards to allow the hall to empty and the next audience to be seated. Every person, children included, will need a ticket to attend the talk.

Where do I get talk tickets from?

All FREE talk tickets are given out on the day. They will be given out at special tables (See What's the basic layout of the hall for LFCC? in section 2.2 - Organising your day: for the location of these tables)

If there's talks where tickets will be sold, the tickets will be on sale from the on-line store. Any not sold in advance will be sold on the day.

When do talk tickets start being given out?

At the shows opening time.

Can I get my friend a ticket, or do they have to queue up as well?

If tickets are sold - you can buy as many as you want.

For FREE talks, the one ticket per person rule will be fully enforced. So everyone wanting a ticket will have to queue up.

There is a certain number of talks that you will have to buy a ticket for. Seating for those talks is numbered.

How much are the talks?

An Audience with Scott Bakula (Saturday, time TBA) is £20.
An Audience with Peter Facinelli (Sunday, time TBA) is £15.


All other talks are free, but every person, children included, will need a ticket to attend the talk.

How many talk tickets are there and how fast do they go?

There are about 200 talk tickets for each talk.

For the most popular talks (Star Trek talks at LFCC3) the tickets went by 11am. So do go and get your talk tickets as soon as you can.

I'm only going on Sunday, will all the tickets go on Saturday for the Sunday talks?

Sunday tickets will not be given out until Sunday.

Where will the talks be?

They are held within the main hall itself (See What's the basic layout of the hall for LFCC? in section 2.2 - Organising your day: for the location of the talk hall)

Are the talk tickets seat numbered?

No the talk tickets are not seat numbered, it is a first come first served system. You sit where you like (in a free seat ).

What time should I get to a talk?

Firstly the talks are not over sold so if you have a ticket as long as you get there before the start time you will get a seat.

If you want to sit in the front 3-4 rows you need to be there at least 30 minutes before the talk.

Can I stay in my seat if I have a ticket for the next talk?

Sorry but no. The talk area will be emptied before the next talk begins. Although this may seem unfair to someone who is in the previous talk and wants to see the next talk, it would be equally unfair for someone who only wants to see the second talk to end up at the back of the area even though they have been queuing for half an hour. It's swings and roundabouts I'm afraid.

Can I get autographs at the talks?

No, it is a talk only. The main event is for autographs.

Can I have photos with the guests at the talks?

No, no photography of any kind is allowed in the talks, this includes video cameras.

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This post has been edited by Queen_Sindel: May 3 2009, 10:04 AM

[Too Tall]

5 - USEFUL INFO:

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Where can I stay?

Most of the crew including myself previously stayed at the Ibis Earl's Court. It's less than 5 minutes walk away, you can actually see the venue from the hotel and it's about £60-£65 per room a night. The parking is £14 per 24 hours.

For hotels suggested by Earls Court look >>HERE<<

Look >>HERE<< for some cheaper alternatives.

Where can I eat?

The main thing is that the new venue is in the middle of a main shopping type area so there is a lot more around outside. Unlike at the old venue.

Take a look here for info on places to eat in the area...

Where To Eat

Where can I park?

You can park at Earls Court itself for around £20 a day, take a look >>HERE<<. Most of the hotel car parks are about the same price. The IBIS car park is £14 per 24 hours.

For cheaper options take a look at this PARKING Thread

Which tube station is best for LFCC (Earls Court 2)?

Info provided by TommyT, Thanks again.

Earl's Court 2 (EC2) is basically stuck on the back of the main Earl's Court exhibition centre (EC1). As such, the closest tube station to EC2 is West Brompton, on the Wimbledon branch of the District line. However, Earl's Court tube station is served by considerably more trains/tube lines, and is only about a 3 or 4 minute longer walk than from West Brompton tube, basically because from Earl's Court tube you have to walk round EC1 to get to EC2.

It's usually not worth the wait to change for a train to West Brompton in my opinion (and years of experience living on the Wimbledon branch of the District line, waiting for a connection ) Earl's Court station is only about 3-4 minutes more walk, and the West Brompton trains are scheduled to be every 9 minutes or so (and believe me there's a lot of room for stretch in those schedules - I can't see the point in waiting 4, 5, 6, 7 (or more) minutes for a train, to ride it for another couple of minutes, just to save yourself 4 minutes walk. And if you've got so much luggage that it's a problem, how are you going to cope lugging it round EC2 all day?

Basically I would say that unless you have major mobility problems which will make a few minutes extra walk a serious problem, then:

If you're approaching the venue from the south on a District line (Wimbledon branch) train, get off at West Brompton.

If you're approaching the venue from the east on a District line train that will be going down the Wimbledon branch, stay on the train at Earl's Court and get off at West Brompton.

If you're approaching the venue from the east on a District line train that will not be going down the Wimbledon branch, get off the train at Earl's Court - if there is a Wimbledon branch train there waiting (or due imminently) on the adjacent platform, catch that to West Brompton - if there's no such train imminent just leave the station and walk.

If you're approaching the venue from the west on a District line train, get off the train at Earl's Court, leave the station and walk - by the time you've crossed over the bridge to get to the relevant platforms for a train to West Brompton, you might as well have walked to the venue anyway.

If you're approaching the venue from any direction on a Piccadilly line train, get off the train at Earl's Court, leave the station and walk - by the time you've wandered through the station and changed lines to get to the relevant platforms for a train to West Brompton, you might as well have walked to the venue anyway.

If you are getting off at Earl's Court, make sure you look for the exit for the Exhibition Centre.

Which airport is best for Earls Court?

Heathrow - 45 min by tube.

Gatwick - 30 mins train into Victoria, and then 5 min by tube.

Stanstead - 45 mins to Liverpool Street, and then 20-30 mins by tube.

City Airport - 25 mins DLR, and then 20 mins by tube.

Luton - 35 mins train to King's Cross, and then 25-30 mins by tube.

For further info take a look at this thread

Where can I put my luggage on the first day?

There is a cloak room in EC2 that is £1 an item for all day.

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This post has been edited by Too Tall: Oct 17 2006, 02:59 PM

[Too Tall]

6 - DISABLED INFO:

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Advice for disabled people who are planning to attend an event!
(by a disabled person who has tried it out!)

Showmasters have catered for people with a variety of disabilities at their previous shows, and in my own experience they are very helpful when you get there in their own words, they always endeavour to balance treating all attendees equally, while recognising at the same time that some may have special requirements.

If waiting in long queues is difficult for you, you can get a friend/carer to collect extra Virtual Queue tickets for you. Your friend/carer will need to explain to the crew member handing out the tickets that the extra ticket is for a disabled person. To prevent abuse of the system, the ticketer may ask for some sort of evidence. If you are able to be somewhere visible near the queue, then your friend/carer can point you out to them. If you can't manage to be nearby at the time, or your have a disability that is not immediately obvious, it's a good idea to bring along some sort of proof of your disability (if you don't have any, ask your doctor to write a letter) that your friend/carer can show to the ticketer. If you have any problems getting extra virtual queue tickets, ask to speak to the Pit Boss, who should be able to sort it out.

If you want to attend any talks and can't queue up for a seat, speak to one of the crew members at the talk room, preferably allowing plenty of time before the talk starts (if you can, try approaching them before the talks start in the morning, or during a lull when one of the quieter talks is happening). They should be able to help you avoid the queue and get a seat. If you can't get hold of a crew member, go to the Organisers Booth and ask there.

If you do not have anybody to queue up for you, or you have any other requirements not covered here, the best thing to do is to go to the Organisers Booth as soon as you arrive and talk to Showmasters. Explain what the problem is and what you need, and they should be able to sort something out.

The main thing to remember is IF IN DOUBT, ASK!

Thanks to sully for the info.

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This post has been edited by Too Tall: Oct 17 2006, 02:58 PM

[Too Tall]

7 - OTHER:

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How can I meet other forum members?

My god are you MAD????? OK most of us are alright.

There are various section meets that go on over the weekend. I know at previous events groups for Stargate, LOTR and CSI have got together. Go to the fandons section, introduce yourself, make some friends and normally about 3-4 weeks before the event someone will post about a meet. Or you may want to start the thread yourself.

You can also use the below sources to recognise forum members. You can then come and say hi, we don't bite, well not much.

There is the I-Spy sheets. These are sheets with forum members mug shots on. The latest iSpy thread in the C8 section.

There is the Forums most wanted website >>HERE<< If you'd like to be added send an e-mail with your photo, real name and forum name to autographmania@blueyonder.co.uk

I want to crew an SM event?

All the info is >>HERE<<

What do the stalls sell and what are the prices like?

DVDs, autographs, toys, weapons, cloths, posters, trading cards, pictures, books. Pretty much if it's film or TV related you're likely to find it on one of the stalls.

You can find some very good deals, I have in the past. There are also things there you'll not see anywhere else. On average things are about the same price as on the web. But of course in this case you get it there and then and have the fun of browsing the stalls

Can I use Scottish or Northern Irish money at the event?

You should be aware that Scottish and Northern Irish banknotes are not legal tender in England, but are legal currency. This means that the stall vendors and SM do not have to accept them, although they may choose to do so. We would suggest that to minimise disappointment and inconvenience that you try to bring predominantly English banknotes with you, or obtain them from a cashpoint/bank local to the venue.

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This post has been edited by Too Tall: Oct 18 2006, 10:03 AM

[Mrs. Pattinson]

I have got a standard early bird programme for Saturday so can I please upgrade it to a Gold Pass? Thanks.

[Queen_Sindel]

I have got a standard early bird programme for Saturday so can I please upgrade it to a Gold Pass? Thanks.

You can't upgrade tickets I'm afraid, you'd have to make a new, separate purchase of a Gold Pass.

[Mrs. Pattinson]

I have got a standard early bird programme for Saturday so can I please upgrade it to a Gold Pass? Thanks.

You can't upgrade tickets I'm afraid, you'd have to make a new, separate purchase of a Gold Pass.

Thank you for the prompt reply. Is there any chance to change my Saturday to Sunday tickets?

[Queen_Sindel]

EDIT: I stand corrected - Jason has just posted this in the Peter Facinelli talk topic:

i think if someone is wanting to upgrade to a gold pass we will do this for them for this show as its long away from the show and we can work it out in time for them , i will let Jola know this

jason

So looks like you get the chance to upgrade after all. Write Jola at info@collectormania.com and give her your order number, she'll let you know how to proceed.

This post has been edited by Queen_Sindel: Apr 27 2009, 07:01 PM

[Mrs. Pattinson]

EDIT: I stand corrected - Jason has just posted this in the Peter Facinelli talk topic:

i think if someone is wanting to upgrade to a gold pass we will do this for them for this show as its long away from the show and we can work it out in time for them , i will let Jola know this

jason

So looks like you get the chance to upgrade after all. Write Jola at info@collectormania.com and give her your order number, she'll let you know how to proceed.

I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YOU SIMPLY ROCK!!!! I'm sending Jola my email right away!!!! YAY!!!!!!

[lena13]

Hi, sorry but I got a bit confused - I just want to get a photoshoot and autograph with Peter Facinelli on the Saturday and attend his talk on the Sunday - would it be best for me to buy a standard entry programme for each day and then the other things seperate? Thanks

[Queen_Sindel]

Hi, sorry but I got a bit confused - I just want to get a photoshoot and autograph with Peter Facinelli on the Saturday and attend his talk on the Sunday - would it be best for me to buy a standard entry programme for each day and then the other things seperate? Thanks

Are you planning to order online?

You can put everything in one order if you want, that won't be a problem. If you'd rather spread costs you can do separate orders too, that's up to you.

If you spread out things I'd personally buy the talk ticket first, then photo session and entry tickets last. His talk is going to be popular, it may sell out. There's two photo sessions for him announced, these won't sell out as fast. Entry tickets have never sold out, you can even buy those on the day.

[lena13]

Thanks thats really helpful

[lil_aber_lisa]

In the FAQ's here it says that the show is being held in Earls Court 2, yet on the website for this event it says Earls court 1

Thought i would mention it

[Railok]

In the FAQ's here it says that the show is being held in Earls Court 2, yet on the website for this event it says Earls court 1

Thought i would mention it

It says Earls Court 2 for me.

[Queen_Sindel]

The main page says Earls Court 2, but there's still one Earls Court 1 on the "travel" page that apparently was overlooked.