Although the month-long 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang already wrapped up, the high felt by avid figure skating fans is still very much felt. Nothing compares to the admiration and awe after watching your favourite athlete do well in their event. These feelings can be elicited by both real life and animated events. For fans of Yuri on Ice, they are very familiar with the wondrous feeling of art imitating life.
With this year’s Yuri on Ice fan gathering just around the corner, you won’t have to wait too long for your next figure skating fix. While we await the return of this event, let’s take a look back at Born to Make History, the first Yuri on Ice Fan Gathering that happened last year.
On March 26, 2017, Bayanihan Center in Pasig was absolutely packed with fans of all ages. Attendees lined up very early, excited for the merch booths, fan art, and talks planned for the day. Both regular attendees and cosplayers really showed their dedication as the line grew longer under the noontime sun.
Cool air greeted everyone as soon as the doors were opened. The venue was packed with interesting booths; it’s almost impossible to go home empty-handed.
Perry in Disguise’s jackets patterned after the ones from the anime were a big hit with the crowd, especially those planning to cosplay some of the characters.
Cosplayers milled around the venue excitedly greeting each other, almost as if instant friendships were formed from cosplaying characters from the same show. The popular character among cosplayers seemed to be Yuri Plisetsky, fondly known as Yurio.
Inside the main stage area was a maze of local artists showcasing their prints, stickers, keychains, and other merchandise. Each and every piece was clearly the product of hard work. There were smiles and compliments all around as people bonded over the fandom that brought everyone together.
The main stage was graced by the presence of singer and artist Judee Zee, professor and writer Paolo Tiausas, and figure skater and pambansang eros, Joel Minas. Cosplayer Barimor also joined the event through an exclusive video interview live from St. Petersburg.
Yuri on Ice’s popularity and impact on the local community is what brought about the creation of #YOICONPH2017, an event for fans and by fans. The passion that drove this event forward was definitely a key aspect in its success. We can’t wait to see what #YOICONPH2018 has got in store for us this year!
—
Born To Make History: A Yuri!!! on ICE Fan Gathering 2 will be held on March 18, 2018 (Sunday) at Bayanihan Center, Pasig City from 12nn-8pm. For more info, visit https://www.facebook.com/yoiconph/
#yoiconph2018
About The Author
