Collectormania Manchester Cosplay Competition

[Ladyd]

WHAT IS COSPLAY?

The word cosplay comes from mixing 'costume' and 'play'. It basically means the hobby of making and wearing costumes of your favourite characters from films, anime, books or video games. Cosplay is all about bringing characters to life, so many cosplayers also try their best to look or act like the character.

 

 

FACILITIES FOR COSPLAYERS

 

Full changing and cloakroom facilities will be available to all cosplayers attending Collectormania Manchester. Male and female changing rooms will be available, as well as a cloakroom where it will be possible to up to store two items per person free of charge, up to the size of small suitcase or weekend case.

 

Please note that these facilities are available only to cosplayers and that items stored in the cloakroom may be subject to a security check. It is not advised to leave valuables in the cloakroom or changing rooms as we cannot be held responsible for theft or damage. For non-cosplayers or those with excess luggage, extra cloakrooms will be available next to the entrance for a small additional charge.

 

As we understand that wearing a costume can sometimes be hot and tiring, water and seating will be available for cosplayers upon request.

 

If you have a question about cosplaying at Showmasters events, please post it on the online forum, or email the cosplay co-ordinator: cosplay@showmastersonline.com

 

 

MASQUERADE ENTRY RULES FOR COLLECTORMANIA MANCHESTER

1. OVERVIEW

 

The masquerade is a competition where prizes are awarded for the best costumes as judged by a panel.

 

The competition and prize-giving will take place on Saturday 3.15pm and Sunday 3.10pm on the main stage. All registered contestants must be ready in their costumes to meet outside the changing rooms at 2.45pm.

 

2. ELIGIBILITY

 

The competition is open to all ages, but entrants aged under 16 must have their entry form signed by a parent or guardian. If you are 16 or 17 but look young, please bring proof of age.

 

All types of costume may be entered within reason. Costumes from Film, Anime, Video games, Music, TV, comics, books, theatre and even original costumes may be entered.

 

Currently entering single applicants only.

3. REGISTRATION

 

Registration for the masquerade will take place on the day, between 11am and 1pm at the Cosplay Desk. Entries will not be accepted outside of these times.

 

There is a limit of 40 places in the masquerade. Places will be allocated on a first come first serve basis.

 

All entrants (with the exception of origional ideas) MUST provide a reference picture of their character for the judges. This is to be handed in with the registration form on the day. Please label it carefully with the name of the character and contestant.

 

4. JUDGING

 

The judging panel will be made up of a mixture of celebrity guests and respected costumiers (this may include fashion designers or people from the media or theatre industry, as well as experienced hobby costumers). The judging panel will be mixed, male and female.

 

Each judge may award up to 10 points for each costume. Up to 3 points each will be awarded for Accuracy, Craftsmanship and Resemblence, with an extra point awarded at the judge's discretion.

 

Accuracy judges the detail and complexity of the costume. A high score will be given for accurate details, colours and patterns.

 

Craftsmanship judges the quality of the costume and how well-made it is.

 

Resemblence judges the overall look of the costume and contestant, and how well they represent the character. This includes details like hair and make-up, and even how they act or move on stage.

 

5. IMAGE COPYRIGHT

 

You may be filmed or photographed during the masquerade, and Showmasters or its associates may wish to use your image. By entering the masquerade you agree to this.

 

If you have any questions about entering the masquerade, post them in the online forum or email the cosplay co-ordinator: cosplay@showmastersonline.com

 

 

COSTUME WEAPONS AND PROPS GUIDELINES FOR COLLECTORMANIA MANCHESTER

 

All props must be taken to the Cosplay Desk for inspection upon arrival. If the item is judged to be safe, it will be issued with a sticker and you will be allowed to carry it around the event. If not, it must be stored in the cloakroom until you are ready to leave the event.

Types of weapons

 

Weapons and props up to a length of 1.5m will be allowed for floor cosplay, providing they are made from a lightweight material and all sharp edges have been rounded off. Suggested materials include foam, plastic or balsa wood. Larger props following the same guidelines are allowed during the masquerade, but they must be stored in the cloakroom until the time of the masquerade.

 

Plastic replica guns such as BB guns are allowed, but they be must shown to have the magazine removed or be fitted with an orange 'flare cap'.

 

We regret that metal replica weapons will not be allowed in the event under any circumstances.

 

Conduct

 

Mock battles or 'play fights' are not allowed inside the event area.

 

Please be safe with your weapon or prop. Anyone found behaving in a way which endangers themself or the public will have their weapon confiscated and/or be escorted immediately from the event without refund.

 

During the event, you may be approached by a member of the cosplay team or security to check your weapon has been approved. If this happens, please be co-operative.

Transporting weapons and props

 

Finally, remember to be extra vigilant when transporting items to and from the event, especially considering the recent terrorist threat. Replica weapons should be kept out of sight in a locked box or carry case. Please remember that replica weapons must NOT be taken out of the arena and into the shopping centre. YOU are responsible for transporting your items so be safe and have fun!

Edited February 20, 2008 by Ladyd