Superheroes and sorcerers: Why I can’t wait to attend Comic-Con for the first time, even if it is virtual

Having always dreamt of attending the world-famous San Diego Comic-Con, Sabrina Barr can't wait to join in the event – even if it is through a computer screen

(Getty Images)

If I were to imagine my life as a superhero origin movie, it would open with a scene set during my childhood; a five-year-old girl sat with her eyes glued to the TV as the animated Spider-Man and X-Men series play on repeat. As a child, I dreamt of being inducted into Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters, of swinging from the highest skyscraper in New York City as an electric guitar riff played in the background. I took any symptom of illness as a possible sign my mutant powers were manifesting, that I would soon be able to move objects with my mind or change the weather at will. I lost myself in stories of superheroes and sorcerers, desperately wishing that I could one day join their ranks to help save the world.

At a time of mass isolation, virtual Comic-Con will help people let their imaginations run wild

While I may no longer believe I am harbouring any secret powers, my enthusiasm for superheroes, sci-fi and fantasy has far from waned in adulthood. As soon as I learnt of the existence of Comic-Con, I knew it was where I belonged; a place where I could connect with people from around the world who share the same earnest excitement as I do for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Star Wars, Game of Thrones and so much more. For years, I’ve said “next year will be the year I finally go”, I already know I will dress as Rogue from X-Men, with a green and yellow leotard, brown bomber jacket and white-streaked wig.