This week we’re doing something a little different. Our guest tonight is Katherine Masiewicz, a.k.a. KEM Cosplay, an aspiring actress and model who is active in the world of Cosplay.

What is Cosplay?

For the uninitiated, “cosplay” comes from Costume Roleplay, where fans of a particular genre of popular culture create costumes and portray their favorite character. Cosplay can include Japanese Anime characters, characters from video games, television shows, movies, comic books, science fiction — the list is almost endless. Characters can be a mix of two different genres, so the only limit is one’s imagination.

An anime convention is an event or gathering with a primary focus on anime, manga and Japanese culture. Commonly, anime conventions are multi-day events hosted at convention centers, hotels or college campuses.

A Love Letter to Cosplay

In the video below, Adam Savage of “Mythbusters” fame describes his love for cosplay.

Cosplayers Get Happy

This fun video tells the story better than mere words.

In the United States conventions like San Diego Comic-Con and the Anime Expo have welcomed many thousands of guests, and cosplay has become a serious art form. Competitions with cash prizes are held, and some professional cosplayers are paid to make appearances at various conventions. There’s cosplaying, panels, workshops, booths, and even the chance to take a picture with your favorite writer, actor, hero, or designer. There are also numerous books and even television shows about the world of Cosplay.

KEM Cosplay photos

Katherine Masiewicz (KEM Cosplay) as “Carmelita Fox”

Comic Book Characters

If you’re interested in learning more, check out the books below.

Books

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