Now in its third year, BroadwayCon knows how to deliver a showstopper. From January 26-28, attendees enjoy three days of over the top cast reunions, panels, costumes, and of course, musical numbers – BroadwayCon is a rush of excitement and positivity. Co-created by Anthony Rapp of Rent fame and author Melissa Anelli, the ‘Con’ is true a source of inspiration for a community of musical enthusiasts of all ages. It is also a masterclass for hopeful stars who come from all over the world; the majority of whom dream that their young careers will take off or that they will get into their ideal College program.

The event is located at the Javits Center, a venue with ample room to entertain thousands on the grand stage. Throughout the open marketplace, ‘Con’ goers can mingle, take pictures, meet their favorite stars for autographs and come together to sing a show tune. Intimate conference rooms are used for more informative panels with a Q&A portion.

Award for Most Anticipated Panel: The ten year reunion of the cast of In the Heights with actor, composer and playwright, Lin Manuel Miranda. Apart from creating and starring in this award winning musical, Miranda is also well known for co-writing the songs from Disney’s Moana and for creating and starring in Broadway smash hit musical, Hamilton.

Award for Most Inspirational: Lesli Margherita on Sunday Morning Church. Billed as ‘going to church with Lesli’, the actress took questions from students and teachers on how to stay positive while auditioning.

Award for Most Classic: Blizzard Call-Line. The hosts started calling Broadway actors on their cellphones. Saturday evening at the ‘Con’ becomes a guessing game of who will videocall live. No blizzard necessary!

Award for Fan Participation: 1st Annual Lip Sync Battle. The winners rocked a song from what else but Hamilton!

Written by Pia Finnigan – Pen To Paper Media’s New York correspondent.