SASKATOON – Fan fiction took over Saskatoon this weekend for the second annual Comic and Entertainment Expo. Prairieland Park was packed for a “nerd-tastic” celebration of film, television, comics and more.
“A lot of people have this inner nerd in them and they’re excited about whatever medium or franchise it is,” said expo spokesperson Emily “Expo.”
Participants dressed up as their favourite characters, calling themselves “cosplayers,” a combination of the words costume and play.
“Cosplay is this amazing community. A lot of the stuff is homemade. People put hours and hours, days, months, years making these amazing costumes,” Expo said.
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Fans were eager to show off their original works of art, some designed by hand.
“This one I made myself so each of the leaves was stitched and glued on. There are over 3,000 leaves,” said cosplayer Melody Wood.
The event offers an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate a common love of fiction in all its forms.
“It’s growing, we are finding our community. Everyone is beginning to embrace their inner nerd,” said cosplayer Kris Brehaut.
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Fans of all ages flooded through the doors hoping to meet their favourite stars and shop at over 200 vendors. There was something for everyone, including live robot battles.
Canadian actress and model Tricia Helfer from Battlestar Galactica couldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the Prairies and share the excitement.
“Getting into costume is fun and I think that’s why a lot of people here enjoy it. You’re playing a part. Not any different than if you went to a sports game and people are in the jerseys with the colours of the team. It’s just it’s fun,” said Helfer.
Crowd favourite Star Trek actor William Shatner will also be representing Canada at the expo Sunday.
Global’s Kevin Stanfield was an emcee at the event.
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