1. fandom
COSPLAY

2. COSPLAY basics
Otaku (the person)—fans that transform themselves from “real world” identities into chosen fictional characters [creation fans]
Cosplay (the act)—a combination of “costume play”
Masquerade (the place)—costume competitions at conventions

3. Cosplay—art analysis THE UNEXPECTED—Industry DRAMATIZING MESSAGE—Fans
Character reboot (change in canon/mythos)
Change in appearance (video game/movie)
DRAMATIZING MESSAGE—Fans
Masquerades and conventions
Websites, weblogs and online journals
FANTASY CHAINING—Fans
Replications
Parody

4. CONTEXT OF Cosplay PEOPLE
Cosplayer can be anyone who expresses his/her fandom and passion for a character by dressing and acting similarly to that character
Professional or amateur
Research is key
Dedication to depiction of chosen character

5. Context of Cosplay SOCIAL SETTING
Masquerades (costume or performance based)
Photo sessions
Themed parties
Karaoke
Club meetings
Conventions

6. Context of cosplay CHARACTER
Character chosen based on personal criteria
Character subgenres
Mecha
Cyborg
Furry
Lolita
Crossplay
Role-playing is an essential skill

7. not

8. Context of cosplay DRESS Body modifications (padding for muscles)
Makeup, jewelry, wigs or dyed hair
Costume
Accessories (wands, staffs, swords, etc.)
Each otaku determines the extent of his/her transformation

9. masquerade COSPLAYER JUDGES SPECTATORS
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COSPLAYER
Pose/act in skits relevant to character
JUDGES
Accuracy of costume appearance
Construction/detail of dress
Entertainment value/accuracy of skit
SPECTATORS
Use applause, verbal cues and laughter to encourage otakus

10. Fan interview
Cosplay is a highly social activity. The character provides a protective identity for the cosplayer which may allow for more confident and open interactions.
Why do this event?
What does this character mean to you?
Ask opinion of your artifact?
What did focus on when researching?
Where/why go to source for research?
How would describe event community?