Thorhild library charms with first annual Fanfest

By Brandie Majeau
Thorhild Library invited the community into the artistic expression and world of Cosplay.
On Aug 16, the first ever Thorhild Fanfest was held. Fanfests and cosplay is a world dedicated
to the fans, celebrating superheroes, video games and all favourite characters. For many
children in attendance, this was their first experience with cosplay. Thorhild Librarian, Kathy
Pasay, commented, “some of the guests walked in and were all like…what is happening!?”
While several attendees did not dress up for the event, many others donned their costumes
and showcased the full extent of cosplay entertainment. This fun filled affair welcomed all ages
to attend and dive into the fantasy and magic of this enjoyable hobby.
Cosplay guests, Will and Taylor Rettman, led a discussion panel and shared informative
knowledge, discussing their experience of the craft. They spoke of the competitive nature of
cosplayers and the attention to detail that goes into creating costumes. These guest speakers
entranced their audience with stories, drawing them in to this mystical world. As the
conversation came to a close, participants were then taught to create paper dragon puppets.
Puppet master, Taylor Rettman, shared her amazing talents and skilled instructions, guiding
participants into a remarkable project. Paper was cut and decorated and manipulated,
enchanting forms emerged, and each guest ended up with an individually beautiful “pet”
dragon to follow them home. One guest expressed her excitement that Thorhild Library was
the “cool library” for putting on such an event. The first Annual Fanfest of Thorhild was a
success. It was a unique experience for a small community to be drawn into the niche of
cosplay and the world beyond it.