Meet some fantastic guests every year at the convention.
The husband and wife team of Daniel and Jillian Coglan are full-time martial art instructors, specializing in 16th century Samurai Arts. When not teaching at their dojo, the Kojokan, they travel the United States performing and teaching the ancient ways of the most famous warriors in history.
With a combined 35 years of experience, their show is a unique blend of history, combative skill, and humor, designed to educate and entertain audiences both large and small.
Beyond their martial skills, the dynamic duo collaborated to write, direct, host, and star in a 12 episode TV series entitled, “The Way of The Samurai.”
Daniel is also an author, with several martial art articles published, and is currently working on his second full-length novel.
My name is Meagen Whitchelo better known as @cosplayhooray! My love of costume making began at an early age of 6 when I began to teach myself how to hand sew costumes for me and my dolls. I have come a long way since then and have since learned to build huge props, construct armor and bring to life my favorite anime characters by learning more about wig styling and makeup application. I have made costumes my whole life, but it wasn’t until 5 years ago that I started to officially make cosplays. My first cosplay build was Ikaros from Heaven’s Lost Property and after building her I was hooked! My favorite thing about cosplaying is becoming all of the fantastic characters from the anime and manga that have left great impressions on me and embody qualities I deeply admire. When I am in cosplay, I can do anything! I was even Anime Midwest’s first ever world crown winner last year as Alice Zuberg from Sword Art online Alicization! Through cosplay I have met so many great people and I have learned so much about myself and my artistic abilities. Cosplay allows me to be creative, silly, to dance, to act, to spread messages, and most importantly to have fun!
Step into a world of whimsy and wonder with DawnStarCosplays! As a passionate cosplayer from Northeastern Iowa with over a decade of experience, DawnStar loves to share what they’ve learned with fellow cosplayers, spreading the love of the hobby wherever they can!
Meet Astro (they/them) a seasoned cosplayer with a passion for the craft that spans over 8 years. In the last year, Astro ventured into the realm of crafting their own cosplays, adding a new dimension to their creative journey. As a chronically ill and disabled cosplayer, Astro stands as a powerful advocate for the belief that everyone can cosplay, breaking down barriers and inspiring others to pursue their cosplay dreams without limitations.They can’t wait to meet and see everyones cosplays!
