http://nwitimes.com/entertainment/music/ar...d2dbc27000.html
Convention fit for a King of Pop
Michael Jackson fans have "Got to Be There" when the first MJ Fanvention convenes in August.
Plans for the first MJ Fanvention were announced Monday during a news conference at Merrillville's Star Plaza Theatre. The convention, honoring the King of Pop, will be Aug. 26 to 29 at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza. The event coincides with what would have been the legendary singer's 52nd birthday on Aug.29.
"This is the only event of its kind taking place near Michael's childhood home (Gary), and it will attract attention to Northwest Indiana," said presenter Renae Brantley, CEO of Fluid Entertainment Inc. and Fluid Productions LLC. "This is also the only event endorsed by the Jackson family."
The convention will feature entertainment by members of the extended Jackson family and other performers, question-and-answer sessions, author talks, tours of the Jackson family home in Gary and more.
"We wanted to honor Michael's stellar career and to recognize his marvelous contribution to the entertainment field," Brantley said.
Singer Genevieve Jackson, daughter of Michael's younger brother, Randy Jackson, appeared at Monday's announcement.
"I'm happy to be here," Genevieve said. "And I'm looking forward to being here in August because this is where it all began," she said, adding her "Uncle Mike" used to tell her what it was like growing up in Indiana. Genevieve will perform at the August event in addition to The Triple Dose Band, led by Michael's cousin Keith Jackson, and various members of the latest generation of Jacksons.
Among other entertainers scheduled to perform is Michael's protege, Omer Bhatti.
"Today we're announcing a very exciting tribute to one of the greatest entertainers of all time," said Charlie Blum, president, CEO and talent buyer for Star Plaza Theatre and Star Productions.
"We're absolutely thrilled to be the host venue for this illustrious event."
Michael's cousins Trent and Kayla Jackson, along with his mother Katherine's assistant, Mary Christmas, appeared via satellite from Encino, Calif. They sent best wishes from Katherine, who originally was scheduled to appear by live feed.
Along with the media and other guests, members of the extended Jackson family who still reside in Northwest Indiana attended the conference.
Evelyn Lahaie, the woman known for naming the Jackson Five, also appeared.
She said she's looking forward to being a part of the August event, where she'll be on a speakers' panel.
"It's a very special time, and it's a chance to honor the family and all they've contributed," Lahaie said.
The MJ Fanvention also will include a special tree planting ceremony at 2 p.m. Aug. 28 at Jackson's childhood home, where Katherine Jackson and other family members will pay tribute to Michael's love for the environment. A VIP gala reception will follow the ceremony at 6, with a concert titled "The Jacksons -- The Next Generation" kicking off at 8 p.m.
The Michael Jackson Birthday Celebration will run from 3 to 5 p.m. Aug. 29 and feature a tribute concert by West Side Theatre Guild.
A portion of the proceeds from the MJ Fanvention will be donated to local charities honoring Michael's commitment to the environment and humanity.
Ticket packages, which went on sale Monday night, range from $1,013.32 for single rooms to $2,767.52 for quad rooms (tax included) and include access to all events and lodging. Tickets can be purchased at
www.mjfanvention.com. Stay tuned for future event-only ticket sales. FYI:
www.mjfanvention or (877) 653-2658
MJ FANVENTION: Ticket packages, which went on sale Monday night, range from $1,013.32 for single rooms to $2,767.52 for quad rooms (tax included) and include access to all events and lodging. Tickets can be purchased at
www.mjfanvention.com. Stay tuned for future event-only ticket sales. FYI:
www.mjfanvention or (877) 653-2658
