Oh, Baka! We must be determined! Were hyping First Fridays CosPlay Exhibit and Competition at the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix on March 6, but since bored teenagers dont typically read our weekly sell-out rag, were left to explain to our doddering, 20-something demographic why this subcultural role-playing stuff is astoundingly cool. Pick up any manga novel -- One Piece, Naurto, Bleach, Death Note, Sailor Moon, or our favorite, Full Metal Alchemist -- choose a relatable character, hand-sew the intricate costume, practice the dialogue and posturing, pose yourself next to the Gardens 12-foot waterfall or koi pond, and emote. Master of Ceremony Yihki Kaneta will present prizes for youth, adult, and group. There will also be a fashion showcase from Rising Sun Productions called Tokyo Girls detailing the historical evolution of Japanese fashion over the last 150 years.
Fri., March 6, 4-6:30 p.m., 2009