Cosplacon returns to Capital City

Pachinko Fever owner Jared Presler shows Westphalia sisters Michelle, right, and Marlene Kliethermes how to play pachinko during Cosplacon 2015 at the Capitol Plaza Hotel. Pachinko is a popular Japanese arcade game similar to a pinball machine but stands vertical and doesn't use flippers.
Pachinko Fever owner Jared Presler shows Westphalia sisters Michelle, right, and Marlene Kliethermes how to play pachinko during Cosplacon 2015 at the Capitol Plaza Hotel. Pachinko is a popular Japanese arcade game similar to a pinball machine but stands vertical and doesn't use flippers.

Anytime a new event sprouts, there's always fear it won't be successful, but Jefferson City's Cosplacon has grown since it began in 2012 and has a few twists from last year.

The four-day event - starting today - is expected to draw about 800 people from across the state and even outside Missouri's boundaries, said Cosplacon creator Rodney Hussman.

This year, they've brought in voice actor Bryce Papenbrook, who is in several anime shows and video game characters. Hussman said his team spends about a year contacting agents to bring guests to the event. Papenbrook is a character in a few shows that are gaining popularity, making him ideal for the event.

Event attendee Aaron Rabe said every year he sees so many amazing costumes it's hard to pick just one. But he dons a Captain Jack Sparrow costume from Pirates of the Caribbean and walks around in full character.

"That's really amazing," he said. "There's a lot of really good (costumes). There have been some really good Iron Mans and certain creatures."

There will also be a cosplay-themed drag queen show, which is the first time they've done one. Every year they typically have at least one 18-years-and-older event that's a little more mature, he said.

Tickets will be available at the door at Capitol Plaza Hotel. Today is free. A one-day pass for Friday or Saturday is $25, and two-day passes for Friday and Saturday are $40 and Sunday is $15. Wristbands for individual 18-and-over events on Friday and Saturday are available for $10 per event.

For more information and the event schedule, visit cosplacon-mo.squarespace.com.