Enter stage right! ROH to lend hand to keep Free Comic Book Day alive

From left, Anthony Ejarque, Ralph DiBernardino, and Jenry Towle (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - The Rochester Opera House has announced it will assist in the continuation of Free Comic Book Day in downtown Rochester.

Jetpack Comics & Games recently announced that the 2024 Free Comic Book Day would be the last event they host downtown after 18 years. In response, Ralph DiBernardo, owner of Jetpack Comics, and Anthony Ejarque, Executive Producer of the Rochester Opera House, began discussing how the event could transition to a new home.

Jenry Towle, Director of Education and Associate Artistic Director of the Opera House, will oversee the weekend-long celebration.

"We are thrilled that the Opera House can keep this tradition alive in downtown Rochester. I look forward to continuing to partner with so many businesses, artists, and local organizations," Towle said. "Having Ralph's vast wealth of knowledge as a resource, alongside the support of Anthony and our Board, makes me even more excited to 'nerd out' this spring."

Free Comic Book Day will take place on May 3 as part of a nationwide celebration, offering free comics to visitors at participating comic shops. The downtown Rochester event, originally started by DiBernardo, has grown into a citywide celebration featuring multiple comics locations, discounts at businesses, a costume contest, and an artist alley. The Opera House plans to expand the festivities with live entertainment and partnerships with educational organizations to promote literacy and visual arts through the comic medium.

The Rochester Opera House will soon be seeking sponsors, vendors, artists, and volunteers for the event. More information about how to participate will be available on the Opera House website.