Omaha ‘becomes’ London as Britishfest takes over convention scene Aug. 4-5
Chris Mendolia builds everything by hand. You won’t find an any power tools in his garage – aka workshop – where all the magic occurs. Why is it important to note that a man uses hand tools to create his work? Because Mendolia doesn’t build bird houses; though, if he did, they would likely move and make bird noises. Instead, he could challenge some mad scientists for his creations. Or, maybe George Lucas and Sydney Newman, the brains behind “Star Wars” and “Doctor Who,” respectively. Mendolia builds droid units and Daleks (evil robots from “Doctor Who”).
As a child, Mendolia – affectionately known to anyone who meets him as “Moose” – loved to tinker. He came across some schematics for robots in a catalog. He played with them, eventually drawing a model of what the robots would look like. One day, someone asked him if he was a “Doctor Who” fan. “Who?” Mendolia replied. “’Doctor Who,” the man said. “He’s on ITV Saturday nights.” That was it. Eight-year-old Moose was hooked from the first episode. His love for the “Doctor” is known nationally. A couple of years ago, Lisa and I visited a “Doctor Who” store – the only one in the United States dedicated to the “Doctor” – and the Indiana storeowner was familiar with Mendolia. Small world, indeed.
Which brings us to the present. Mendolia is the brains behind Britishfest, an annual science fiction and pop culture convention of all-things British. From “Doctor Who” to steampunk cosplayers to “Star Wars” – yes, “Star Wars” – the convention seeks to share Mendolia’s love of the Isles’ entertainment legacy with like-minded fans. Celebrating its fifth year in 2018, Britishfest will again call the Comfort Inn hotel near 72nd and Grover Streets home Aug. 4-5.
But, as the convention approaches, Mendolia must prepare his props and toys. While his garage is where his creations are born, the basement of his and wife Jen’s Bellevue home is practically a wall-to-wall storage unit of Daleks, droids, props and trains. Mendolia is also a model train aficionado who created his own miniature train and railroad (again, all by hand).
In one corner are items he needs to get out and assemble for the show. In half of another room are the Daleks and “Star Wars” droids, including his own BB8 from “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” Each robot or droid moves and talks, as needed, even when they’re scared, he said.
Headliner, attractions
So, as Britishfest 2018 approaches, what can guests and participants expect?
The con’s main attraction will be the “Black Archive,” a “Doctor”-themed exhibit where alien items are kept. There will be additional Easter eggs hidden among the archive as part of a contest for fans.
David Busch – a production manager and voice talent – will headline the event. Working with Titmouse Inc animation studio, Busch was part of the animation crew for “Doctor Who: Shada,” a six-part series written by Douglas Adams, of “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” fame. It is scheduled for release in the United States this fall. Busch has also worked on the animated “Black Panther” series for Marvel. Busch has also lent his voice talents to “Black Panther.”
Of course, the Davros head and hand worn by Terry Malloy while appearing on “Doctor Who” episodes from 1984-88. Malloy may be Mendolia’s favorite Britishfest guest. That’s saying a lot since the convention has hosted several series-related actors over the years, including Simon Becker-Fisher. Other celebrities have included Mark Ryan from “Black Sails” and “Transformers.”
Cosplay, panels
Panels will be hosted to discuss “Doctor Who” and “Star Wars,” among a series of other topics, such as cosplay and “Harry Potter.” Lisa will also lead a panel about our book “100 Things to Do in Omaha Before You Die” on Aug. 5th.
Britishfest will feature a lot of fun events, as well as vendors and, of course, cosplayers. Seeing people dress as their favorite characters is my favorite thing about attending conventions. The steampunk version of characters is impressive, such as someone’s take on Darth Vader, moving away from the typical view of him to maybe add a splash of color to the all-black costume or maybe making him a woman. Britishfest will offer a lot of cool people watching opportunities.
So, grab your favorite Hogwart or droid and jump into your TARDIS to be transported to jolly old England Aug. 4-5 as sci-fi and pop culture fans converge at Britishfest. We’re sure everyone will have a good time. For more information about the event, please visit https://britishfest.weebly.com.
