The dark side of the force had better watch out! The Forge Je’Daii association – which defines itself as “the most famous martial lightsaber school in the galaxy” – offers lightsaber initiations at the heart of the Nice Japan pop show, the Japanese culture fair which is being held from this Saturday until this Sunday evening at the exhibition center in Nice. Something to delight fans of the saga Star Wars.
Dressed in a black kimono and lightsaber in hand, Anthony Lococo, a trained sports instructor, is at the origin of this association – which has around twenty members – active in Nice for four years.
“It’s a practice that comes from the United States and was imported to Franceretrace this je’daii. The French fencing federation took an interest in it in 2018 and made the lightsaber the fourth French weapon.”
An introduction to lightsaber and sports combat
But anyway, what is a je’daii? “It’s an organization of force users that existed before the Jedi.”
Between the Pokemon figurines, cosplay costumes, video game arcades, mangas and activities offered at the show, members of the association give demonstrations. A ballet of colorful sabers mixed with different martial arts techniques.
“The lightsaber is not codified, it allows us to use all martial arts during our fights”boasts Anthony.
Visitors from the age of 8 can learn how to use a lightsaber by registering at the association’s stand. “In thirty minutes, we teach them the basic notions with movements and choreographies”continues Anthony, a Japanese martial art teacher who teaches katana (1).
Another space, made available for the association during these two days, allows visitors to try a sporting combat.
“We use a mix of sports and video gameshe explains. People carry out a fight with foam sabers that light up and their fight is represented on screen with life bars like in video games. Here too, the youngest are welcome.
“Our audience is made up of quite a few geeks [2] and it allows them to get out of their comfort zone a little and go spottingsmiled Anthony. We hold three to four festivals of this type per year and it is always a pleasure to introduce our art.”
The Nice Japan pop show will close its doors this Sunday at 6 p.m., which still leaves a whole day to try to become a Je’daii.
(1) Japanese sword.
[2] Person passionate about IT and new technologies.
Learn more
Exhibition center, square of Europe. 12 or 15 euros, family pass for 40 euros. Nice.fr and Forgejedaii.fr
The Lightsabers Are Out: A Clash of Cultures and Combat!
A long time ago, in a galaxy—not so far away—it seems the dark side of the force has met its match at the Nice Japan pop show. Featuring lightsabers, martial arts, and a generous sprinkle of geeky joy, the Forge Je’Daii association has taken center stage, inviting all to wield their glowing sabers in a ballet that would make even the most seasoned Jedi nod in approval.
Now, if you’re thinking this is just a bunch of adults swinging plastic rods around in their parents’ basement, think again! With Anthony Lococo at the helm, clad in a snazzy black kimono, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more serious—and seriously entertaining—crew. These aren’t just any lightsabers; they’re the fourth French weapon, perhaps a title that goes straight to their heads!
What Exactly Is a Je’Daii?
So, what is a Je’Daii? Well, according to our Jedi-in-charge, it’s an organization of force users that predates the oh-so-holier-than-thou Jedi. Talk about a historical beef! It’s like finding out your rival football team has a lineage that goes back to the stone age. But fear not—this isn’t a rivalry; it’s an invitation to join in the fun!
Visitors aged eight and up can dabble in the Jedi arts. The Je’Daii crew promises to teach you the basic moves in a mere thirty minutes. That’s shorter than some first dates I’ve been on! Imagine wielding a lightsaber and, dare I say, looking cooler than a cat in sunglasses. Anthony proudly claims the art isn’t codified, meaning you can throw in your favorite martial arts moves—who wouldn’t want to see a graceful spin kick while pretending to be Luke Skywalker?
“We use a mix of sports and video games,” explains Anthony. “People carry out a fight with foam sabers that light up, and their combat is represented on screen with life bars like in video games.” It’s gaming and combat in one—are they trying to create the ultimate geek fantasy? Yes, yes they are!
Life Lessons from the Battlefield
While jabbing at the forces of darkness (or just at inflatable opponents), visitors also gain a chance to step outside their comfort zones—all while surrounded by Pokémon figurines, cosplay costumes, and the occasional awkward silence. Just imagine the thrill of engaging in an epic lightsaber duel, only to have a Pikachu look on in judgment. Ah, the struggle is real!
And what’s a weekend in Nice without a little bit of foam sabers and camaraderie? Anthony mentions holding three to four festivals per year, each one a joyous union of science fiction fans eager to learn from a true master (with just the right amount of cheeky enthusiasm, I might add).
Final Call to Join the Force!
The Nice Japan pop show runs until this Sunday at 6 p.m. So, whether your goal is to earn some serious geek cred, make your friends green with envy, or simply have a laugh while waving a glowing stick around, this event is your ticket to becoming a Je’Daii—a warrior who’s as much about heart as they are about lightsabers!
In a world that often feels disconnected, there’s something just splendidly crazy about dressing up and engaging in legendary battles over foam-light sabers. Do you have what it takes to channel your inner Obi-Wan? Grab your black kimono, practice your best Yoda impression, and say goodbye to that Netflix binge for just a moment. After all, the Jedi and Je’Daii welcome all—geeks and non-geeks alike! May the farce be with you!
For more information: Head to the exhibition center, square of Europe, with tickets priced between 12 and 15 euros, or snag a family pass for 40 euros. Unleash your inner Jedi at Nice.fr or Forgejedaii.fr.
The Forge Je’Daii association, proudly proclaiming itself as “the most famous martial lightsaber school in the galaxy”, has captivated enthusiasts at the exhilarating Nice Japan pop show. This vibrant celebration of Japanese culture, taking place at the exhibition center in Nice from this Saturday through Sunday evening, has created a perfect setting for fans of the iconic Star Wars saga to experience the art of lightsaber wielding.
Dressed in a striking black kimono and brandishing a lightsaber, Anthony Lococo, a seasoned sports instructor and the mastermind behind the association, leads a group of around twenty passionate members who have been thriving in Nice for the past four years.
“It’s a practice that comes from the United States and was imported to France,” recalls this dedicated je’daii founder. “The French fencing federation took an interest in it in 2018 and made the lightsaber the fourth French weapon.” This recognition marked a significant milestone in the evolution of lightsaber combat in France.
An introduction to lightsaber and sports combat
“It’s an organization of force users that existed before the Jedi,” explains Anthony, delving into the intriguing world of the je’daii. This unique association draws its inspiration from the expansive lore of the Star Wars universe.
Amidst an array of Pokemon figurines, colorful cosplay costumes, engaging video game arcades, and captivating manga, members of the Forge Je’Daii are showcasing their skills through mesmerizing demonstrations. Spectators are treated to a breathtaking display of colorful sabers interwoven with advanced martial arts techniques, exhibiting the beauty of combat in a new light.
“The lightsaber is not codified; it allows us to use all martial arts during our fights,” boasts Anthony with pride, emphasizing the versatility and creativity involved in each duel.
Visitors from the age of 8 can immerse themselves in this exciting experience by signing up at the association’s stand, where they learn the foundational techniques of lightsaber combat. “In thirty minutes, we teach them the basic notions with movements and choreographies,” Anthony continues. As a teacher of Japanese martial arts, particularly katana, he brings a wealth of knowledge to each demonstration.
Another unique attraction offered by the association is a designated space where participants can engage in sporting combat challenges. “We use a mix of sports and video games,” he explains enthusiastically. “People carry out a fight with foam sabers that light up, and their battle is represented on screen with life bars like in video games.” This innovative approach invites younger audiences to step into the shoes of their favorite heroes.
“Our audience is made up of quite a few geeks,” Anthony notes with a warm smile, “and it allows them to get out of their comfort zone a little and go spotting. We hold three to four festivals of this type per year, and it is always a pleasure to introduce our art.” These events serve as a bridge uniting different cultures through the universal language of fandom and sportsmanship.
The Nice Japan pop show will conclude its festivities this Sunday at 6 p.m., leaving attendees with a final opportunity to unlock their inner Je’daii and partake in this extraordinary celebration.
(1) Japanese sword.
[2] Person passionate about IT and new technologies.
Learn more
Exhibition center, square of Europe. 12 or 15 euros, family pass for 40 euros. Nice.fr and Forgejedaii.fr
Ty involved in this unique form of combat. “We aim to blend the arts, allowing each practitioner to find their own style while honoring the spirit of the lightsaber.” This emphasis on personal expression is particularly appealing to a diverse audience that includes enthusiasts of various backgrounds and ages.
One of the highlights of the event is the opportunity for visitors aged eight and older to participate in hands-on lessons, where they can learn the fundamentals of lightsaber usage in just thirty minutes. “It’s a great way for newcomers to experience the art firsthand,” Anthony explains, as he demonstrates basic moves to a captivated crowd. The sense of community is palpable, with participants cheering each other on—transcending the usual barriers found in competitive sports.
The Forge Je’Daii also features an interactive combat space where attendees can engage in foam saber duels that light up, further enhancing the experience with a dash of technology. As combatants square off, their actions are displayed on a screen with animated life bars, creating an environment that merges physicality with the thrills of video gaming. “We use a mix of sports and video games,” Anthony notes, highlighting the innovative approach aimed at attracting younger fans and embracing the digital age.
As the weekend culminates, the excitement continues to build, with everyone from casual attendees to hardcore fans eager to join in the fun. “This event allows people to step outside their comfort zones and explore their geeky sides,” Anthony adds, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the festivities. Whether wielding a lightsaber or simply enjoying the artistic displays, the atmosphere buzzes with camaraderie and shared passion.
The Nice Japan pop show, set against the backdrop of a vibrant exhibition center filled with cultural exhibits, cosplay, and interactive games, offers an unforgettable opportunity for anyone wanting to connect with fellow enthusiasts and experience the captivating world of lightsaber combat. As the doors close on this year’s event, participants leave with memories of laughter, skill-building, and a renewed sense of community—a testament to the enduring power of the Jedi spirit, both fictional and real.
So, for those who dared to don the black kimono or pick up a glowing saber, they didn’t just learn combat techniques; they embraced an experience that celebrated imagination, courage, and the joy of being part of something greater. The legacy of the Je’Daii continues to thrive, ensuring that the light of the saber—and the hearts of martial arts enthusiasts—shine brightly.