Special Guests

Shaun Weiss: From The Crease to Recovery
Shaun Weiss is much more than the face of a generation’s favorite underdog stories. While millions know him as the charismatic Greg "The Goldberg" Goldberg from Disney’s The Mighty Ducks trilogy and the lovable Josh Birnbaum in the cult classic Heavyweights, Shaun’s most profound performance isn't one captured on film—it’s his real-life journey of resilience and reclamation. After years of battling a highly publicized struggle with substance abuse, Shaun has transformed his life into a masterclass in perseverance. Today, he stands as a beacon of hope in the entertainment industry, celebrating six years of sobriety—a milestone he considers his greatest achievement, surpassing any box office success or Hollywood accolade.

A Career Reimagined
Shaun has returned to his roots in performance, channeling his wit and timing into a flourishing career as a Stand-Up Comedian. He uses the stage to blend his signature humor with the raw honesty of his life experiences, proving that while the journey was difficult, the "funny" never left.

Advocacy & Impact
Shaun’s mission has shifted from the screen to the soul of the industry. He is a dedicated advocate for recovery, focusing his efforts on:

• Fundraising: Raising vital resources to provide treatment and support for actors and artists struggling with addiction.
  
• Mentorship: Using his platform to ensure the next generation of performers has the tools to stay drug-free.
  
• Public Speaking: Sharing his story of "The Comeback" to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and dependency.
   

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Snarky Jay Cosplay - Jay Fett
@snarkyjay

I'm a South Florida based cosplayer with nearly six years of experience.

I've been a dedicated nerd my entire life, and I've always loved any opportunity to get creative and craft something worth sharing with folks.

The four values I live by are creation, innovation, education, and promotion.

I love getting to create cosplays and content, coming up with creative solutions to solve problems, teaching folks how to do what I do, and helping folks promote everything from t-shirts to blockbuster movies.

Cosplay is my passion. Over the years I've made, modified, and/or modeled over 50 different cosplays, spanning characters from Wonder Woman to Boba Fett. 

I consider it an outlet for my creativity and my nerdiness. Doesn't get much better than that! 

 

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Marius Groover | Versatyle Industries
@versatyle_industries

Widely recognized across the convention scene as Versatyle Industries—is a dynamic cosplay performer whose larger-than-life portrayals have captivated fans at events like Sunrise Comic Con. From the sleek mechanics of Bumblebee to the regal presence of Black Panther and the fun-loving charm of a Ninja Turtle, Marius brings each character to life with meticulous attention to detail, boundless energy, and a flair for immersive storytelling. His work seamlessly blends craftsmanship and performance, delighting audiences and leaving a lasting impression on fans of all ages.

Off the convention floor, Marius channels his creativity and passion into philanthropy as the founder of Heroes for Higher, a Winter Haven–based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The group unites individuals with compassionate hearts who are committed to making a positive difference globally through dedicated community service. What sets Heroes for Higher apart is its unique integration of cosplay into charitable initiatives, transforming heroic fandom into real-world impact and inspiring communities through joy, creativity, and outreach.

Through both his cosplay performances and his nonprofit work, Marius has cultivated a career defined by imagination, dedication, and heart. Whether entertaining crowds or uplifting communities, he consistently demonstrates that creativity can be a force for good. With Versatyle Industries and Heroes for Higher, Marius continues to push boundaries, inspire others, and prove that anyone can be a hero—on stage, in costume, and in life.

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Dr. Bill Slevin is a world-renowned paranormal investigator, demonologist, researcher, author, and educator with more than 36 years of experience confronting hauntings and demonic phenomena. He holds a Ph.D. in Parapsychology and Metaphysical Humanistic Science and is the founder of the Paranormal Existence Research Society (P.E.R.S.), an international investigative team with branches throughout the United States, the UK, Italy, and Greece. Over the course of his career, Bill has personally conducted more than 1,000 residential investigations, many involving dark and dangerous cases, always focused on helping families in crisis while advancing ethical and responsible paranormal research.

In 2025, Bill released his highly anticipated autobiography, Living Life Haunted. The book is a deeply personal and unfiltered account of his life in the paranormal, going far beyond case files to reveal the emotional toll, personal battles, and unseen dangers that come with a lifelong calling to confront darkness. Featuring a foreword by David Sloan, author and caretaker of Robert the Doll, the book is an honest and compelling firsthand account of a real paranormal investigator’s journey.

His work has been featured across major media outlets including Discovery+, Travel Channel, Destination America, MAX, and Paraflixx, as well as numerous podcasts, radio programs, and publications such as American Paranormal Magazine and Paranormal Underground. Bill appeared in the Sock Doc The Devil’s Academy and on Ghost Asylum, where he presented evidence and firsthand experiences from the Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, Florida—solidifying his reputation as a well-respected and recognizable voice in the paranormal field. 

Bill has formerly served in leadership roles with organizations dedicated to preserving the legacy of Ed and Lorraine Warren, including serving as Manager and Director for the Warren Legacy Foundation and as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technology Officer of The Warren Society for Paranormal Research and Education. 

He is an Assessor in Demonology and Parapsychology with the Holy Sword Apostolate and a member of The Ghost Club in London, the world’s oldest paranormal research organization.

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Meet Heyblugeek: The Multiverse’s Favorite Hero! If you’ve spotted a web-head swinging through a convention center or a shield-bearing hero brightening up a hospital wing, chances are you’ve met Heyblugeek! Driven by a massive passion for pop culture and a "super" sense of creativity, Heyblugeek has become a staple of the cosplay community.

A Hero of Many Faces
Heyblugeek doesn’t just stick to one universe—he masters them all! His impressive repertoire includes:
• The Spider-Verse: From the futuristic edge of Spider-Man 2099 to the festive sweetness of Gingerbread Spidey, he’s got the wall-crawler covered.
• The Classics: He’s suited up as the patriotic Captain America, the cosmic Silver Surfer, and the legendary White Power Ranger.
• The Dark Side: He’s embraced the anti-hero life creating Venom mask and recreating the mysterious Qimir from The Acolyte.

From the Con Floor to the Big Screen
You can usually find Heyblugeek bringing the hype to the Southeast’s biggest stages! He’s a regular at MegaCon, but he’s also left his mark at NY Comic Con, Holiday Matsuri (HolMat), Fandom-Festival, Metrocon and now Sunrise Comic Con. Beyond the conventions, he teams up with Heroes for Higher for high-profile cameo appearances. Whether he's flaming on as the Human Torch for the Fantastic Four premiere or thwipping into action as Spider-Man, alongside the X-men, for the Deadpool & Wolverine debut at Regal Cinemas, he knows how to make a premiere feel like an event!

Heart of a Hero
For Heyblugeek, cosplay is about more than just great photos—it’s about making a difference. Alongside the Heroes for Higher team, he frequently visits hospitals to bring smiles, hope, and a little bit of cinematic magic to kids who need it most. Whether he’s on a mission of mercy or a mission to save the multiverse, Heyblugeek proves that you don't need a radioactive spider bite to be a real-life hero.

Cosplay Contest @ 6:00 pm

Main Theatre Stage! First come first serve basis. Limited to first 75 registrants. Online registration coming soon. In-person registration will also be available during event from 11 am to 2:30 pm in the theatre lobby.

Artists & Authors

Silverback, Creator of the City of Sunrise's  hometown Heroes: Captain Sunrise And Lieutenant Daybreak!  

Born Glaister G. Ormsby in Brooklyn, NY, with a  deep love for traditional animation, Japanese anime, and classic literature; including the works of Shakespeare and Poe, Glaister turned his love of art and literature into a thriving and substantial career. Glaister soon took up the mantle of his favorite animal "SILVERBACK" and parlayed his passions into making his childhood dreams a reality as the CEO and owner of Tattooed Ape Publishing LLC.

"SILVERBACK" wears many hats: mentor, teacher, illustrator as well as a nineteen time published author. In 2019, he refocused his energy to achieve an "UNHOLY" mission as  "SILVERBACK" that has now evolved into what he calls the "Unholy" literary trinity; The man, the ape, and the entity; three personas, two sides of the coin, and one unique and unearthly goal to have a title in every literary genre!

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Sunrise resident and painter, Carlos Aleman. My enchantment with the yin of the east as seen through western eyes began in 1995 on my first trip to the Morikami Japanese Museum and Gardens in Delray Beach, Florida.  It was like the artist’s pilgrimage that I had made to Italy as a young man, which caused me to want to paint for the rest of my life.  Only this short trip from home seemed to transcend identity and purpose and carried me away into a sort of mysterious fantasy that I’ve never quite awoken from.  

On the practical side of things, it wasn’t long after falling in love with the art of Asia that the internet revolution took hold and I discovered that my geek nature was well suited for web development and digital product design.  During the many years that I worked for technology companies, I twice had the opportunity to travel to Asia.  My first trip in 2010, brought me to China, a land of natural splendor and beauty, as well as breathtaking art.  Monochromatic landscapes and inkwash art fueled my creativity and thus began a time of much productivity and a few exhibits, as well as several novels.  In 2013, I went to Kyoto, Japan, another life-changing experience that again inspired me to produce much art.  My fascination has only increased over the years.  Together with Tokyo fashion, cosplay, manga, geisha, and samurai, I found a rich visual language for magical realism and pop surrealism.

Smash Tournament 

Provided by FLYNN'S ARCADE & MORE

• Smash Ultimate Tournament ($5 entry)
  • All DLC - Multiple Setups - Game Cube adapters - 1ms Monitors - Single Elimination
  • Finals in the Theatre (View Theatre Schedule for 4:45pm)

   

  Flynn's Arcade & More: 

• Arcade Assortment
  • several multi play stand up arcade cabinets

 

Free Play All Day

Provided by HERO HYPE INC.

• Free Play Gaming all day!

 

Theatre Schedule

11:45 AM The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-along
Join Rizzle’s Rangers for The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along, a delightfully spooky and spirited panel that invites fans to sing along to the beloved songs of Tim Burton’s holiday classic. Whether you’re a die-hard Halloween Town resident or a first-time visitor, this interactive experience promises festive fun, audience participation, and plenty of ghoulish cheer for all ages. Panel ends at 12:30 PM.

12:45 PM The Theme Song Guessing Game - Anime Edition
Test your anime music knowledge in The Theme Song Guessing Game – Anime Edition, presented by Fantasticarium! From iconic openings and endings to unforgettable original scores, see if you can identify which show or movie each song comes from. The top three contestants will walk away with exciting prizes, so bring your A-game and prove you’re the ultimate anime music fan! Panel ends at 1:30 PM.

1:45 PM K-Pop Demon Hunters Sing and Dance Along
Join Pompompop for the high-energy K-Pop Demon Hunters Sing and Dance Along, a fun-filled panel where fans can belt out hits and learn choreography alongside your favorite K-Pop-inspired heroes. Sing, dance, and celebrate the exciting world of demon-slaying adventures in this interactive, audience-driven experience. Get ready for music, moves, and nonstop fan-powered fun! Panel ends at 2:30 PM.

2:45 Living Life Haunted: A Journey Through the Paranormal
Join Dr. Bill Slevin - world-renowned paranormal investigator, parapsychologist, demonologist, and author seen on Discovery+, Travel Channel, and more - for a chilling and insightful presentation inspired by his autobiography Living Life Haunted. Drawing on over 36 years of real-world experience, Dr. Slevin shares true hauntings, unforgettable cases, and behind-the-scenes insight that separates paranormal fact from fiction, captivating believers and skeptics alike. Panel ends at 3:30 PM.

3:45 PM Act That Fandom!
Join AMPdUzi for Act That Fandom!, where pantomime meets fandom in a hilarious, high-energy challenge. Can you act out popular fandom terms clearly enough for your teammates to guess, or will you fumble in total silence? Test your skills, share the laughs, and find out who’s the ultimate silent performer! Panel ends at 4:30 PM.

4:45 PM Ultimate Smash Brothers Tournament Finals
Get ready for an epic showdown at the Ultimate Smash Brothers Grand Finals, hosted by Flynn’s Arcade! The top two finalists from across the tournament will face off in an intense battle to claim the ultimate title of Smash champion. With every move, combo, and strategy on the line, this is where the best of the best will prove who truly reigns supreme. Watch as the excitement builds, the stakes get higher, and the competition heats up in this thrilling grand finale. Whether you're a die-hard Smash fan or just here for the excitement, you won’t want to miss this high-octane event! Final match ends at 5:45 PM.

6:00 PM Cosplay Contest Finals - Theatre
Don’t miss the ultimate celebration of creativity and craftsmanship at the Sunrise Comic Con Cosplay Contest! Watch as cosplayers of all skill levels—from Novice to Journeyman to Masters—battle it out for amazing prizes and the chance to showcase their incredible costumes. Whether you're here to cheer for your favorite characters or be wowed by the artistry of the creations, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the Fan Favorite award is in your hands! Applause and cheers from the audience will determine which cosplayer wins the coveted title, so be ready to get loud and show your support! It’s a fun and interactive way to wrap up your Sunrise Comic Con 2026 experience!  For details check out the Cosplay section.

 

Amphitheater Schedule

12:00 PM Live Entertainment: School of Rock – Set One
Get ready to rock as School of Rock takes the Amphitheater stage with a high-energy live performance showcasing the next generation of talented musicians. Featuring electrifying renditions of classic and contemporary rock hits, this crowd-pleasing show delivers big sound, youthful passion, and nonstop excitement for music fans of all ages. First set ends at 12:50 PM.

1:00 PM Live Entertainment: School of Rock – Set Two
School of Rock returns to the Amphitheater for a second electrifying 50-minute set, bringing even more energy, talent, and rock anthems to the stage. Packed with dynamic performances by young musicians, this encore-style show delivers powerful vocals, blazing guitar riffs, and a high-octane concert experience audiences won’t want to miss. Second set ends at 1:50 PM.

2:00 PM Live Entertainment: School of Rock – Set Three
School of Rock closes out their Amphitheater performances with a final 50-minute set that cranks the volume all the way up. Featuring standout student musicians and a thrilling mix of iconic rock favorites, this high-energy finale delivers an unforgettable send-off filled with passion, precision, and pure rock ’n’ roll excitement. Final set ends at 2:50 PM.

4:00 PM Coastal Championship Wrestling presentation featuring Gangrel
CCW presents David "Gangrel" Heath. Panel ends at 6:00 PM.

Panel Schedule

 

Dance Studio A

11:00 AM Saturday Morning Cartoons - Dance Studio A
Join Fanatically Correct for some trivia, prizes, and an open discussion on all things of the cartoons that livened television screens in the early hours of Saturdays to the crunching of cereal and Pop-Tarts everywhere. Panel ends at 11:45 AM.

2:00 PM Comedy at the Con - Dance Studio A
Join Dade County Comedy for this family-friendly comedy show geared towards nerd and geek life. With handpicked comedians from across South Florida, there will be guaranteed laughs and smiles throughout. Panel ends at 2:45 PM.

5:00 PM Ballroom Etiquette & Dancing - Dance Studio A
Step into elegance with Ballroom Etiquette & Dancing, presented by Fantasticarium! Learn the fundamentals of ballroom dance, proper etiquette, and classic manners from the masquerade community, including the waltz, polka, and more. Perfect for anyone ready to glide into the magical world of a formal masquerade! Panel ends at 5:45 PM.

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Community Room

12:15 PM Speed Friending - Community Room
Check it out everyone! It’s time to make some new friends in 45 minutes or less with Nerds Know! But don’t be fooled . . . this is not your “typical” Speed Friending session! (You will not be playing a game of conversational musical chairs.) So, join us for fun, adventures, and GASP . . . AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION! Yes, we know that sounds scary, but trust us, we will all be friends by the time this event is over! Panel ends at 1:00 PM.

1:15 PM Harry Potter Practice O.W.L.s - Community Room
Get ready for the Ordinary Wizarding Levels (O.W.L.s) Practice Exam, presented by Nerds Know! Wizards and witches in training can test their magical knowledge in this trivia-style challenge—though muggles beware, it’s not as simple as it seems. Successfully navigate the practice O.W.L.s to earn special rewards, and remember: all magic (wands, potions, and enchanted devices) must stay in your robes per Ministry guidelines! Panel ends at 2:00 PM.

2:15 PM Disabilities and Dysfunction - Community Room
Navigating Conventions as a Disabled Cosplayer 
Join VoidfulEternity for an insightful panel on the unique challenges and experiences of disabled cosplayers at conventions. Learn practical tips and strategies for navigating cons and participate in an open discussion where attendees can share their own stories and advice. This panel is a space for learning, support, and community. Panel ends at 3:00 PM.

3:15 PM Who’s That Pokéman? - Community Room
Attention Pokémon trainers! Join Nerds Know to help complete the Pokédex by identifying as many Pokémon as you can from our carefully crafted clues. Trainers who correctly recognize the most Pokémon will earn fantastic prizes - or maybe even some rare candy! Panel ends at 4:00 PM.

4:15 PM Marvel Movie Madness! - Community Room
Join Nerds Know to test your Marvel knowledge in the ultimate Marvel trivia contest! From the Silver Screen to TV shows and beyond, we’re covering every corner of the Marvel universe. But you better bring your A-game! Only the biggest fans will conquer this epic challenge! Panel ends at 5:00 PM.

5:15 PM PCD, Go Away! - Community Room
Join AMPdUzi as we explore Post-Con Depression, the all-too-common feelings that follow the end of a convention. Learn why post-con depression happens, strategies to cope, and how to embrace the anticipation of the next event. After the discussion, stick around to share snacks, water, and all the memories made during the con with fellow fans. Panel ends at 6:00 PM.

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Art Studio

12:30 PM Dressing the Role - Art Studio
Theater & Cosplay Costume Magic
Step into the world of costume magic with Curtain Call Cosplay! Discover how to transform characters through design, materials, and clever techniques that bring both stage and fandom favorites to life. Learn insider tips for creating costumes that are as functional as they are visually stunning, and leave inspired to craft your own show-stopping looks! Panel ends at 1:15 PM.

1:30 PM  TBA

2:30 PM How to Draw with Hailee's Corner - Art Studio
Unleash your inner artist with How to Draw with Hailee's Corner! Join Hailee as she guides you step-by-step in bringing both popular and original characters to life on the page. Perfect for beginners and seasoned sketchers alike, this panel will have your creativity soaring! Panel ends at 3:15 PM.

3:30 PM 3D Printing 101 - Art Studio
Level up your maker skills and dive into the basics of 3D printing with Cody Dickinson of Cody’s Cosmic Carnival breaks down where to find a printer, what to look for, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re building cosplay props or just curious about the tech, this beginner-friendly panel is your first step into a whole new dimension of creativity. Panel ends at 4:15 PM.

4:30 PM Anime & Manga - Drawing Art Studio
Join Carlos Aleman for a free 45-minute presentation on the City of Sunrise anime and drawing workshops! During the presentation, you'll get a glimpse of what our workshops are all about and get an opportunity to explore your creativity and learn new skills! Panel ends at 5:15 PM.

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Dance Studio B

12:45 PM Anime Trivial Pursuit - Dance Studio B
Test your anime expertise in Anime Trivial Pursuit, presented by Cosplay_Kenny! From iconic openings to Studio Ghibli trivia and beyond, see how much you really know about the world of anime. Bring your knowledge, challenge your friends, and prove you’re the ultimate anime aficionado! Panel ends at 1:30 PM.

1:45 PM Disney Trivia with Sailor Kit Kat and Friends - Dance Studio B
Step into the magic of Disney with Sailor Kit Kat and Friends! Test your knowledge of beloved Disney classics, Pixar adventures, Marvel heroes, and the wonders of the Disney Parks in a fun, all-ages panel. Bring your friends, show off your Disney expertise, and win enchanting prizes for the top three trivia champions! Panel ends at 2:30 PM.

2:45 PM TBA

3:45 PM Gamer Kahoot - Dance Studio B
Are you a true gamer with a sharp mind? Put your gaming knowledge to the test and compete for awesome prizes in a high-energy game of Gamer Kahoot with South Florida’s beloved nerdy troupe, Rizzle’s Rangers! Join in for a fun and fast-paced trivia challenge filled with surprises and see how you stack up against fellow fans. Don’t miss out on the chance to win some cool swag and show off your gaming expertise!  Panel ends at 4:30 PM.

4:45 PM Broadway Bingo - Dance Studio B
Be our guest for Broadway Bingo, presented by Curtain Call Cosplay, where we swap out traditional bingo numbers for iconic showtunes - from The Sound of Music to Beetlejuice. Just identify the songs and mark your card in this fast-paced, show-stopping game. Whether you’re a theatre newbie or a seasoned Broadway buff, fun and dazzling prizes await! Panel ends at 4:30 PM.

Special Offerings

 

501st Legion Everglades Squad - Star Wars
Our Mission “...The Legion is an all-volunteer organization formed for the express purpose of bringing together costume enthusiasts under a collective identity within which to operate. The Legion seeks to promote interest in Star Wars through the building and wearing of quality costumes, and to facilitate the use of these costumes for Star Wars-related events as well as contributions to the local community through costumed charity and volunteer work...”

To Promote Interest in Star Wars
While a growing number of people are experiencing a reawakening of their Star Wars fandom, new generations are seeking ways to celebrate their passion for George Lucas’s modern mythology. The 501st Legion brings these fans together, reinforcing the enduring longevity of the Star Wars saga.

To Facilitate the Use of Costumes
Some fans are content to collect action figures...other fans want to be action figures. Nothing professes your passion quite like building your own detailed costume replica of a classic Star Wars villain, and there’s nothing quite like the feeling that comes from bringing the characters of Star Wars into the real world and sharing the magic with others.

To Contribute
While our organization was founded to simply provide a collective identity for costuming fans with similar interests, the 501st is proud to put its resources to good use through fundraising, charity work, and volunteering. Read more about our charity work at 501st.com

 

The Magic City Ghostbusters
Founded: 2008

Are you troubled by strange noises in the middle of the night? Do you experience feelings of dread in your basement or attic? Have you or your family ever seen a spook, spectre or ghost?

Introducing the Magic City Ghostbusters – South Florida's premier fan costuming charity group, here to bring the paranormal to life in the most extraordinary way! We're on a mission to make the unexplainable, well... explainable, all while spreading smiles and doing good for our community!

The paranormal has never been this thrilling! Get ready to believe, because we're about to redefine what it means to be a fan and a force for good in South Florida. Stay spooky, stay excited, and stay tuned for the Magic City Ghostbusters! 

 

School of Rock returns to showcase masterful talent at the new iconic Sunrise Amphitheater and will delight Sunrise Comic Con with rock & roll car tunes perfect for artists alike!

School of Rock is Music School reimagined. The patented School of Rock Method uses programs that are designed to encourage learning in a supportive environment where students of all skill levels are comfortable and engaged. We take the music school concept to the next level for kids, teens, and adults.

School of Rock is a music school for all skill levels, ages, and musical aspirations. With students ranging from toddlers to adults, School of Rock is where music students grow into real musicians. 

Make sure to check us out at the Sunrise Amphitheater with three amazing sets starting at noon!

 

LittleFire360 - Experience unforgettable fun for you and your guests! Step onto our dynamic platform and get ready for lights, camera, action! Become the star of your very own video as our HQ camera spins around you, capturing every moment.

From the very first spin to the last moments of your event, our 360º photo booth will elevate the experience and create unforgettable memories. With stunning lighting and a professional setup, your guests will be treated to a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the magic of every moment. It's more than just a photo booth—it's the highlight of your event! 

Provided sample is a condensed version - featuring Snarky Jay.

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