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ANSWERS to FAQs - Regularly updated with show info


Too Tall
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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 :unsure:

 

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

 

Firstly here is the G-Mex website that has a lot of useful info on the venue.

 

1 - BEFORE THE SHOW:

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It's my first Collectormania G-Mex 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?

Can I come and go as I want?

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?

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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How do I get there?

Where can I stay?

Where can I eat?

Where can I park?

Where can I put my luggage on the first day?

Where is the nearest cash machine or foreign exchange facility?

Last Minute Necessities and Emergencies!

 

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 :D

Edited by Queen_Sindel
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1 - BEFORE THE SHOW:

 

Click on arrow to return to main post 928815[/snapback]

 

It's my first Collectormania G-Mex 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 Collectormania website (not set up yet)

 

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: 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.

 

4: Once you get in, don't look at the stalls. Go straight to the ends of the queues in the order on your list and get the 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.

 

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

 

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

 

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:

*********************************************************************

 

When is it?

 

8th-9th March 2008

 

What are the opening times?

 

Saturday - 9am to 6pm

Sunday - 10am to 5pm

 

Where is it?

 

The G-Mex centre Manchester. G-Mex website

 

How much is?

 

SATURDAY ADMISSION: Early Bird £10 (from 9am)

Standard Entry (11am to 6pm) Adults £5, Children £3 (Under 12)

SUNDAY ADMISSION: Early Bird £10 (from 10am)

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:

******************************************************

 

Can I buy entry and talk tickets in advance?

 

To order entry 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 50 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<< This is a link to the C9 Gold pass at present as Gold passes for G-Mex 2 are not on sale yet.

 

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. If you are worried that the letter may not reach you in time because you live outside the UK, you can send SM an e-mail and ask them to send the letter slightly earlier for you. 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.

 

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

 

Click on arrow to return to main post 928815[/snapback]

Edited by Too Tall
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2 - ON THE DAY:

 

Click on arrow to return to main post 928815[/snapback]

 

***************************************

2.1 - Autograph info:

***************************************

 

How much are the guests autographs and what days will they be there?

 

As with the previous CM G-Mex most of the guests will be signing both days. But this is NOT a guarantee, so do check the website.

 

Note: The guests days are normally confirmed and the website updated 2 weeks before the show.

 

Showmasters have always updated the show 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. The below list will be updated with the days announced on the website.

 

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.

 

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.

Aldred, Sophie - SAT - £10

Andrews, Dean - SAT - £15

Beltran, Robert - BOTH - £15

Blessed, Brian - BOTH - £15

Bradley, Doug - BOTH - £15

Franklin, Richard - SUN - £10

Grey-Cabey, Noah - BOTH - £15

Harris, Alan - BOTH - £10

Head, Anthony - BOTH - £15

Krige, Alice - BOTH - £15

Louis, Jimmy Jean - BOTH - £20

McCoy, Sylvester - SAT - £10

Moore, Leah - BOTH - ??

Mori, Noako - SUN - £15

Owen, Kai - SUN - £10

Reppion, John - BOTH - ??

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.

 

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.

 

************************************************

2.2 - Organising your day:

************************************************

 

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.

 

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 G-Mex2 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 12:00pm at the latest to get VTs. Arrive after 12:00pm and it's possible you'll not get to see them:

 

None at present

 

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 definitely see them:

 

Andrews, Dean

Beltran, Robert

Blessed, Brian

Grey-Cabey, Noah

Head, Anthony

Louis, Jimmy Jean

Mori, Noako

 

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:

 

Aldred, Sophie

Bradley, Doug

Franklin, Richard

Grey-Cabey, Noah

Harris, Alan

Krige, Alice

McCoy, Sylvester

Moore, Leah

Owen, Kai

Reppion, John

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).

 

Click on arrow to return to main post 928815[/snapback]

Edited by Too Tall
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***********************************************

2.3 - Queuing inside and out:

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Click on arrow to return to main post 928815[/snapback]

 

Where do I queue outside before the event, and how do the queues work?

 

There will be 3 queues at the main entrance of G-Mex (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 :D 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.

 

Note: The Virtual Tickets start to be given out at 9:00 when the centre opens.

 

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:

*******************************************

 

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 :unsure:

 

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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Edited by Too Tall
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*****************************************

3 - PHOTO SHOOTS

*****************************************

 

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What photo shoots are there and how much are they?

 

Jimmy Jean-Louis - £15

Robert Beltran - £15

Anthony Head - £15

Sylvester McCoy & Sophie Aldred - £20

Hayden Panettiere - £20

Noah Gray-Cabey - £15

 

Photo shoots are usual announced about 2 weeks before the show.

 

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(s) (and the A-Team Van for the A-Team shoot), 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) 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?

 

Within the hall, specific spot to be confirmed.

 

Where do you get the tickets?

 

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

 

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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Edited by Too Tall
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4 - TALKS:

 

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What talks will there be?

 

Talks are usually announced about 2 weeks before the event!

 

Every person, children included, will need a ticket to attend the talk.

 

Where do I get talk tickets from?

 

At the organisers booth at the show.

 

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

 

At the previous LFCCs where the talks have been free it has been possible to get a ticket for you and your friend. The one ticket one person rule which is used for VTs has not been inforced as far as I know.

 

I think if you tried to get more than 2 tickets you may be pushing your luck though.

 

How much are the talks?

 

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 100 talk tickets for each talk.

 

For the most popular talks (Stargate talk at G-Mex 1) the tickets went by 10:30am. So do go and get your talk tickets as soon as you can.

 

If you do not get tickets there is the possibility that you will be able to stand at the back to watch the talk.

 

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 will be held within the main 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 :unsure:).

 

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, but you can take pictures of the guests. Flash photography is only allowed for the first 5 minutes. No video cameras are allowed.

 

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Edited by Too Tall
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5 - USEFUL INFO:

 

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How do I get there?

 

The G-Mex website has info on how to get there by air, rail or road.

 

The www.gmpte.com website is good for info on train, buses and trams.

 

For those flying in there is a bus service from Liverpool John Lennon Airport called Airlink 700 run by Arriva. It stops at Sackville Street and Manchester Piccadilly train station. Low floor so easy access, services every hour 7 days a week. Adult return £5/10euros, Child return £2.50/5euros. Website www.arrivabus.co.uk.

 

There is a new FREE bus service called Metroshuttle that can be got from the main train and bus stations to G-Mex (may require a change of bus from some stations).

 

Where can I stay?

Thanks to feralmoggy for helping with the following information:

 

Travel Inn G-Mex

 

Car Parking at the Travel Inn - 50% discount with NCP Great Northern car park situated behind the GMEX centre Off Watson Street. There are at least 3 NCP car parks in the area, so make sure you are in the Great Northern car park, or you will not get the 50% off.

 

Travel Inn Portland Street

 

Ibis Portland Street

 

Novotel Manchester

 

Stay Inn - About 20-30 minute walk away but with free parking.

 

If you're coming to the event on a budget the nearest good value hotels are as above, Travel Inn (current rates of £55.25/room/night), Ibis (current rates £53.95/room/night) and Novotel. All of these are visible from the crossroads of Oxford Rd and Portland Street and within a 5 minute walk of the G-Mex. There is a multi storey carpark next to these but the rates are unknown. Ibis also have a hotel on the crossroads of Charles St and Princess St that is an additional 5-10 mins walk.

 

Should you find these to be fully booked you can always venture further afield and book into hotels on Portland Street such as the Thistle, Brittania or Jarvis Piccadilly but these are likely to be more expensive and are within the shopping area with a walk of 10 mins top to G-Mex. Also just around the corner near Piccadilly Train Station there is Malmaison. Should these not be to your taste if you are looking at hotel listings I would recommend that you keep your search within the postcodes of M1, M2 and M3.

 

However if you decide that you are going to make a weekend of it and would like somewhere very nice to stay (4* +) the Midland Hotel is almost on top of G-Mex and the Lowry Hotel is the most prestigious hotel in Manchester but is quite far away.

 

If everything goes wrong or you turn up on the day and don't have a hotel, Lastminute.com have a staffed booth at Piccadilly Train Station on platform 10 (open 10am-6pm 7 days a week) where they have reassured me that you can book a hotel through them for the same day.

 

Where can I eat?

Thanks to feralmoggy for helping with the following information:

 

There is a restaurant located in Central Hall, where Collectormania will take place.

 

G-Mex is located within a business district so quite a few places are shut on Saturday and Sunday however below is a list of some places that should be open.

 

St Peter's Sq - Don Giovanni (italian), Cafe Roma (italian), Allen's Fried Chicken, 3 Cooks Bakery, Dutch Pancake House.

 

Albert Sq - Pizza Express, Starbucks, Slug and Lettuce, Live Bait, Caffe Uno, Bowlers Patisserie, Beluga, Rajdoot Tandoori, Tampopo Noodle Bar, Wetherpoons.

 

Portland St / Oxford Road - McDonalds, Subway, Pizza Hut, Buffet City (Chinese), Ashoka (Indian), Wetherspoons, Tai Wu (Cantonese), Giorgio (Italian).

 

These are all within 5 mins walking of G-Mex. Should you like more choice the city centre has a wider variety and is within 15 mins walk or alternatively you can get the tram there.

 

Where can I park?

Thanks to feralmoggy for helping with the following information:

 

The G-Mex does have parking facilities which are located underneath the G-Mex. Prices for this are at the date of this publication:

0-3hrs £5

3-6hrs £7.50

6-9hrs £9.50

9-12hrs £11.50

12-24hrs £15.00

 

Should you find that the car park is full there is a multistorey car park just off Portland St near the Novotel.

 

Car Parking at the Travel Inn G-Mex - 50% discount with NCP Great Northern car park situated behind the GMEX centre Off Watson Street.

 

For further advice and information regarding car parking in Manchester please look at this link for Manchester City Council. http://www.manchester.gov.uk/environment/parking/

 

Or here Car Parks near G-Mex from the G-Mex website

 

There is also a car park by Manchester University North Campus on the corner of Charles St and Sackville St (about a 5-10 minute walk) which is £2 all day on Saturday and Sunday. There is also a car park by Picadilly train station that is £2.50 all day for Saturday and Sunday! Both car parks do close at 11pm though.

 

Where can I put my luggage on the first day?

 

There is a cloakroom located in the main G-Mex Foyer and there is no charge for its use.

 

Where is the nearest cash machine or foreign exchange facility?

Thanks to feralmoggy for helping with the following information:

 

Whilst the G-Mex does have its own cash point located in the main G-Mex Foyer, there is a fee of £1.65 to use it.

 

The free cash points closest to G-Mex are within a 5 minute walk at the cross roads of Oxford Road and Whitworth Street (Sainsburys Local Bank) or at the crossroads of Deansgate and Peter Street opposite Sainsburys Local. You might see a theme appearing here.

 

If travelling by train it is recommended that you use one of the four cashpoints at Piccadilly train station that are located either on the concourse opposite platform 10 next to Sainsbury's or actually on platform 10. Details for Victoria Train Station will appear soon. Alternatively there are cash points galore along Mosely Street or Cross Street where most of the banks are located or within the shopping area of Market Street and the Arndale Shopping Centre. All of these can be reached within a 10-15 minute walk of the G-Mex.

 

Banks are usually open on a Saturday between the hours of 9am and 1pm with most having a foreign exchange facility. There is also a foreign exchange facility on Platform 10 at Piccadilly train station.

 

Last Minute Necessities and Emergencies!

Thanks to feralmoggy for helping with the following information:

 

For the last minute necessities this is a brief list that should hopefully cover them all.

 

Emergency Services telephone number 999

 

Nearest Police Station - Bootle St. 0161 872 5050 Non Emergency Number

They cover the city centre and should be contacted with regard to permissions for replicas in use with costumes and any other queries that may come under their jurisdiction.

 

Nearest Hospital - Manchester Royal Infirmary (MRI)

Located in South Manchester near the University. Is easy to get to using public transport.

 

Nearest Chemist - Oxford Rd/St Peter's Square.

This is a late night chemist and stocks almost everything. Boots and Superdrug can be found in the city centre (Boots in Market Street and Superdrug in Piccadilly Gardens).

 

Newsagents - Aleef's corner of St Peter's Square and Oxford Rd.

Self explanatory

 

Royal Mail Post Box - Corner by Midland Hotel on St Peter's Square

Suitable for postcards telling your nearest and dearest not to worry but that you'll be very happy living the rest of your life with one of the guests. Stamps can be bought from Newsagents.

 

Internet Access - EasyEverything? (bright orange) St Anne's Sq.

Should be open 24hrs a day. Rates vary according to how busy the cafe is. Max 15mins walk from G-Mex.

 

Nearest public telephones - St Peter's Sq.

 

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Edited by Queen_Sindel
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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! Thanks to sully for the info.)

 

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!

 

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Edited by Too Tall
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7 - OTHER:

 

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How can I meet other forum members?

 

My god are you MAD????? :unsure: 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 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, clothes, 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 :D

 

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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Edited by Too Tall
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  • 1 year later...
  • 3 weeks later...

Hey, would I be able to buy an early entry ticket for Sunday during Saturday's queing up?

 

Jemz x

 

Not during queueing up from what I remember.

 

Best check with the Organisers Booth during the day. At past events I've occassionally seen them selling tickets for the next day.

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Hey, would I be able to buy an early entry ticket for Sunday during Saturday's queing up?

 

Jemz x

 

Not during queueing up from what I remember.

 

Best check with the Organisers Booth during the day. At past events I've occassionally seen them selling tickets for the next day.

 

Ok thanks. I'm just trying to cut down on wasting anymore time queing. I forgotu had to book 2 weeks prior :S

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