Behind the Scenes: Numb3rs…

You can’t plan a convention without working out a budget: it’s not glamorous or fun, but it has to be done. For executive staff, the big budget meeting is their cue to kiss loved ones goodbye, grab a 2-liter bottle of something caffeinated, and lock themselves in a conference room until everyone passes out or the budget is blocked out, whichever comes first.

Here at PAC, one of the main budget issues for us was the registration rate. Like many of you, we also regularly attend anime conventions of all shapes and sizes, and while the biggest conventions are now up to $60-65 for at-door admissions, we knew that isn’t the typical rate for most events. But our goal for PAC has always been a combination of the best of both worlds: the ease of access and friendly atmosphere of a small convention, with the amenities and programming you’d find at a large event. We want you to relax, participate, and have fun—in style! However, first we had to book a facility that fit our needs.

Patrick Delahanty, PAC’s Director of Programming, explains it best:

We looked into other function space in Providence. We also looked into having the event in a hotel. Believe it or not, that was even more expensive than the Rhode Island Convention Center!

It was pretty clear that if there was ever going to be more than a small anime gathering in Providence, it would need to take place in the RICC. Fortunately, the people at the RICC and the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau were thrilled that we were interested in holding a conference in Providence. In the process, we got a very nice facility with a lot of space.

As you can see from the above, the venue was one of the biggest factors we had to consider in planning our budget. And even though we’re a smaller event, our vision of PAC included unique programming and great guests and panelists, on par with what you’d expect from a much larger convention: that was the other major factor to consider. With PAC’s smaller attendance cap, those two factors are reflected in the registration fee—but rest assured, we aim to make this event well worth the price of admission!

Right now we’re working on some cool things behind the scenes, so stay tuned for more guest announcements and programming updates in the months ahead. We don’t want you to be a stranger, either; your opinions and ideas matter to us. PAC executive staff regularly check the forums, so don’t hesitate to drop us a line—and feel free to say hi in October when you see us in person!