“Anifest” by Krasnodar: When the fictional world comes to life
Borat, Freken Bok, NEO of “Matrix”-No, it’s not a dream, but a reality of Krasnodar “Anifest”. The crowd buzzed in the pavilion, the camera clicked, and joy was in the air. From May 17 to 18, the city became the center of all fans of anime, comics, games and cinemas. Read the report from Yugopolis Report to learn how the geek culture has passed.
Long-awaited opening ceremony, role-playing performances and events
On the first day of the festival, long before the opening ceremony, many guests in spectacular costumes gathered in the rooms and open areas. This time, the theme of the event is a confrontation between heroes and villains. The event unites participants of all ages – from school children to adults with children.
According to one organizer, the “protester” is a place where people with different interests can find like-minded people, walk, entertain themselves and see professional famous role-players, musicians and other media people.
this is true. All the warmth greets each other and even meets old friends. The real hunting begins with bright people – it is necessary to have time to take as many photos as possible with his favorite characters.



When the last few minutes before the game begins, everyone pulls themselves onto the stage and freezes in anticipation. The festival is open to a spectacular role-playing show (speakers recreate heroes from popular cultural works). Participants presented the images to feature music. Some danced, some played scenes from movies, series and cartoons. Everyone listed the biggest: gait and facial expressions – everything hit the point! Who isn’t here: From Neo and Trinity from “Matrix” to “Carlson who lives on the rooftop.”


Of course, this is not without anime characters. The audience enjoys the performance and supports prominent loud applause.


Some participants were merged into their own image so that they did not leave their role for a minute. For example, a guy wearing a Borat costume from a comedy movie of the same name. Even with simple communication with other guests, he spoke heroic phrases, improving his mood for everyone around him.

During the break between scenic numbers, the celebrations don’t miss out on the chance to have fun. The most active people gathered in the “train”, danced, passed the mission, and fought for the prize, shot from the bow, and walked on the expo. A more peaceful holiday lover participates in a prefix or board game game. In addition, everyone has the opportunity to try to take the image of any character in real time. Professional Brands – Ups works on the holiday website and within minutes it makes guests recognized.



The official part of the first day plan ends with an awards ceremony. When selecting winners, the jury is evaluated not only by costumes, but also by artistic evaluation. They chose the best images and valuable prizes for hand-played actors.
After everyone, a concert was waiting, a party of music from DJs and of course dancing.

Special devils, lectures and master classes
The next morning began to surprise – not the plot, but the weather. Krasnodar covered it up and organizers had to urgently transfer street events to warm rooms. However, no bad weather can defeat the participants’ mood: life is boiling in the pavilion again.

The main event in the first half of the year was the audience deception. This time, it was not the professionals who entered the stage, but the ordinary fans who decided to show themselves and their image. But there is a feature: Participants don’t know what music they have to say – the tracks are randomly launched, which means improvisation becomes mandatory. Someone freezes in confusion, but the charming speaker helps defeat the moment. The opposite person added the character from the first note. The audience had no one without support, and they held meetings and escorted applause, shouted encouraging words. In the final, the jury once again selected the best award and awarded them the memorial award.

By the evening, the pace changed – the time for lectures and masterclasses was up. Here, it is not only possible to be inspired, but also to really master your skills. Experienced role-players from Moscow are through subtle ways: how to wear wigs, how to collect clothing elements on a 3D printer instead of handling plastic and fabrics to make it look like a movie. Participants accepted a masterclass of performances: they talked about how to feel and understand the character’s personality working with the body and voice, and why not suits, but feed is more important.


Everyone can ask questions – the atmosphere is almost friendly, almost a conference hall. For many, this has become one of the most useful parts of the festival: not only to see, but to learn from real masters.
Under the curtains, the organizers thank everyone who came, performed, helped and inspired. They report that the next meeting will be held on August 30.

The festival is over, but the aftertaste will be with the participants for a long time – among the photos, memories and new acquaintances. Anifest shows that HYK culture is not only a hobby, but an entire world where everyone can be themselves and not afraid of condemnation.


Photo: Margarita Shpak
