The magazine of the art-form of the photo-essay
“A free, really high quality photo-essay magazine. Fabulous!”
Stephen Fry. British actor, writer and film & documentary maker
Jan 2014 back issue
by Rubén Salgado Escudero
It is the first time in more than half a century that Myanmar has sent a Miss Universe contestant to the Miss Universe
International competition. In 1962 dictator Gen. Ne Win put an end to most entertainment events which were seen as
'western' whilst at the same time imposing a socialist government on an already conservative Buddhist society.
The contest took place in the tightly secured Yangon National Theatre and was broadcast live by a private satellite
channel. After five decades of repressive military rule, the current elected government instituted a reform which allows
for private participation of mass media, making this a historic moment; further showing signs of the transitional
changes which Myanmar is currently going through.
A singer gets ready before performing on stage.
A contestant gets her hair styled in a backroom of the National Theater before the contest begins.
Dancing Performers chat and get prepared before going on stage.
An 8 year old model gets her nails done by her grandmother backstage.
Dancers perform in traditional Shan clothing as a crew member creates fog manually for the stage.
Contestants get their final touches done before going on stage.
A wig and other hair products lie in the dressing room of the Miss Universe Myanmar 2013 event.
Contestants watch nervously for their cue right before stepping on stage.
Contestants walk gracefully across the stage during the "traditional-wear" stage of the competition.
Dancers watch in awe by the side as contestants dance on stage.
Contestants chat to calm nerves behind the stage before the swimsuit stage of the contest begins.
Contestants walk off stage during the final round of the Miss Universe Myanmar 2013 contest.
Luxury cars drive off at the end of the Miss Universe Myanmar event.
A contestant telephones her loved ones in the changing room after having lost in the competition.
