Despite challenges, young Cubans being drawn into world of anime, manga

HAVANA – Cuba may be one of the world's least connected countries but that is not stopping the Japanese subculture of animated movies, manga comics and video games from spreading feverishly among its youth. More than 1,000 otaku (geeks), or fans of such fantasy worlds, descended on Havana last week for the country's third otaku festival, defying the sweltering heat to sport the costumes of their favorite characters. Some performed scenes from animated movies on stage, while others belted out songs in Japanese with Spanish subtitles projected in the background. Others did role-playing dance choreographies. A prize was awarded for best cosplay, or role-playing in costume, and for best manga drawing.