I had no idea that Mariko and Choko of Barbara would be in attendance in Hangzhou this year and all 3 of us were surprised because they didn't know I would be there either. Barbara were the Web Japan representatives at WCS2006 and are true veterans of cosplay; Mariko has been at it for 20 years and Choko for 16. Along with the expected photo sessions and signings they acted as judges, presented awards and presented 2 performances on stage. You may remember they included the theme of "hayagae" or "quick (costume) change" in 2006, they continue to be active in presenting the attributes of Japanese cosplay to layers from around the world. In the photo above they hold up a costume which they actually made on stage in a few minutes as a part of their performance.
