If it’s the witching season, Chiller Expo has set up shop for its Halloween extravaganza. This edition of the long-running semi-annual convention runs from October 28 through October 30 and features, as always, several stars of motion pictures and television. It’s a great place to drink in Halloween atmosphere or simply star gaze and spend a fun-filled day.
Headlining this season’s guest list are Tim Curry (“The Rocky Horror Picture Show”), Martin Landau (TV’s “Mission Impossible”), Barbara Eden (“I Dream of Jeannie”), Traci Lords (“Cry Baby”), singer Meat Loaf, Sara Karloff, daughter of horror legend Boris Karloff, Jon Provost (“Timmy” from the “Lassie” TV show), entertainers Tony Orlando and Dawn, and Barbara Feldon (“Get Smart”). There are scores of additional celebrities from the worlds of film, television, music, and sports
Chiller Expo consistently inspires the enthusiasm of visitors who enjoy meeting actors they have long admired in movies or on TV. Sometimes the lines to get autographs are long, but visitors are patient and often strike up conversations with fellow visitors.
A not-to-be-missed attraction is the massive dealers area, where hundreds of dealers sell all kinds of memorabilia. Rare books, monster magazines, autographed photos, models, vintage toys, masks, jewelry, novelty items, posters, lobby cards, and one-of-a-kind collectibles form a treasure trove of goodies to pore over. The range of items available is incredible and the displays are worthy of being exhibits in a museum.
The show will be bittersweet this season because of the passing on October 27 of longtime Chiller fixture Zacherley, the alter ego of actor John Zacherle, who hosted “Shock Theatre” nearly 60 years ago — a series of Universal horror films of the 30s and 40s. Zacherley would conduct comical experiments during breaks in the movies and often appear “in” the film through carefully timed planning.
Chiller Expo will be held on October 28, 6 to 11 P.M., October 29, 10 A.M. to 7 P.M., and October 30, 11 A.M. to 4 P.M. Tickets are $30 per day. Children age 12 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. For directions to the Sheraton Parsippany Hotel, check the Chiller website at chillertheatre.com or call (973) 515-2000.
