THE OBSERVATION BOOTH
OP / ED & PHOTOS BY ANDREA DIALECT
WHO DAT?
COSPLAY – the art or practice of wearing costumes to portray characters from fiction, especially from manga, animation, and science fiction. a skit featuring these costumed characters.
“Who dat” in slang terminology means “who is that.” In this context, it serves as a double entendre: it can mean “who is that person” while also referring to “who is that character being portrayed.”
It was the second time CowGirl Pamela invited me to meet her and Hood Boy Tobias – her horse, whom I affectionately call Hoodboy – at Elmwood Park on October 31st for East Orange’s Trunk or Treat event. While I don’t personally celebrate, it’s was an incredible gathering filled with vibrant people, creativity, and lively entertainment.
The costumes were especially nicely done, with some truly intriguing choices that caught my eye. Unfortunately, there’s not enough room in this Observation Booth to showcase them all, but here are a few standout costumes and participants who have become my muses. Do any of them look familiar? If so, let them know they’re now the talk of Local Talk.
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DID YOU KNOW THAT….
The word “cosplay” comes the words “costume” and “play.” Cosplayers are known for their versatility and strong attention to detail, combining the skills of sewing, foam and thermoplastic work, prop building, wig styling, special effects makeup and more into their work to ensure everything looks according to a specific character’s design. These characters are sourced from a variety of things, such as movies, video games, Japanese anime series or even original designs – basically anything you want as long as it makes you happy!
The “play” part comes in when actions or dialogues are included to mimic the character even further past the visual aspect. Most cosplayers will flock to either fan conventions or cosplay social media spaces where they can interact with others who enjoy the same fandoms as they do and take part in impressions, skits and more. The community aspect of cosplay is very strong, allowing for a safe, judgment-free space to simply have fun and be yourself. {blog.spoonflower.com}
DO YOU KNOW ANY OF OUR COMMUNITY ACCESS CONTRIBUTORS?
- IF SO LET THEM KNOW THAT THEY’VE MADE THE CUT AND THEY ARE THE TALK OF LOCAL TALK THIS WEEK!
- PASS IT ON!
- LIKE, COMMENT, SHARE!
