‘Behind the Curtain’ is a bi-weekly advice column written by masquerade judges answering anonymous questions from the community. These columns are written with the perspective of how Guild run competitions are, and may not apply to non-Guild run contests. Our column is built on your questions, there is a form to submit your question anonymously at the footer of every column!
Entering a Cosplay Masquerade is an exciting and excellent way to show off your hard work. Whether you’re an experienced Artificer, a daring Adventurer, or a showstopping Bard, a well-prepared masquerade application or registration is your passport to the stage.
Each Masquerade will have different rules and steps for entering the show, so make sure you check out the specific show you are entering for details. This column is going to center on the MegaCon Live Masquerades in the UK and Ireland!
Masquerades will often either operate on a registration system or an application system, and some shows use both.
Whether you’re filling out an application or registering, you should take the time to make sure your form is complete, clear, and as detailed as possible! Our team has written a more detailed post on preparing for our applications here. Go check that out if you’re planning to apply for a MegaCon show.
What should you have ready when you are registering for a Masquerade?
It’s crucial to have certain elements ready, regardless of the category you’re entering. Here are some essential components:
- Reference and WIP Photos: Have at least 3, high quality reference photos from the source material in a sharable online drive along with your WIP photos. Ideally, you should have a photo of the front, back and side of the full costume. You won’t need to do this if you’re entering the Bard class at the MegaCon Live shows.
- Breakdown of Costume Elements: Be prepared to break your costume down into three categories- what you’ve made, modified and bought. This breakdown is a crucial step in evaluating your craftsmanship and helps you determine if you meet the minimum made requirements. Some forms (like the MegaCon Live Masquerade forms) will ask you to include this breakdown so that the folks reviewing the form can confirm you meet the made requirements.
- Inspiration Behind your Cosplay: Think about what inspired your cosplay, and the crafting choices you made. Forms often include a place to tell the judges a bit about your cosplay and the inspiration behind it.
- Description of your Performance: If the show includes performances (like the MegaCon Live Masquerades) then think about and draft your performance description. Performance descriptions should be as detailed as possible. Include details about choreography or blocking, any props you’ll be using and details about special effects, if you’ll be using stage ninjas etc. Prepare to submit some supporting evidence like scripts, rehearsal videos, or past performance footage. Not every form will allow you to submit supporting evidence, but it never hurts to be prepared.
If you are entering as a group, make sure you know who in your group is going to be filling out the registration or application. Groups should only submit one form (unless the contest you are entering specifies otherwise). Pick a person in your group who is most reliable when it comes to communication. You can all collaborate on filling out the same form, but make sure that you appoint a main point of contact for the application.
Do I need to have my performance audio ready when I apply or register?
This does depend on the competition greatly, so my answer in this case is going to be very specific for the MegaCon Live Masquerades.
For the MegaCon Live Masquerade, you can submit sample audio or rehearsal audio at the time of applying, but you won’t need to upload your final audio until pre-check which opens 2-4 weeks before the show.
Audio needs to be shared as an MP3 file, and has to be under 2 minutes in length for the MegaCon Live Masquerades. Our system will automatically cut audios off at the 120 second mark, so to avoid awkward cuts in your music, please make sure your music is under 120 seconds when submitting.
Remember, if you’re doing a walk-on style entry, you’ll only have 30 seconds, and your audio should reflect this.
Check out our article on audio editing tips here or our article giving you the rundown on everything you need to know about MP3’s and MP4’s here.
Final tips and suggestions
Artificers, make sure you highlight your advanced skills and experience when applying. Artificers are expected to have more in-depth expertise in cosplay making and your application should reflect that.
Adventurers, make sure that you’re application is as detailed and complete as possible! This class tends to fill up fast, and the best way to secure a spot is to make sure your application is as thorough and complete as possible.
Bards, put some thought and time into your performance details and description. You are pitching your performance to us and this class is one of our smaller class sizes, and the more detailed your description is the more likely you are to secure a spot.
Remember that a well-prepared Masquerade application or registration is your first step toward bringing your cosplay to the stage. Adventurers and Artificers alike should gather their reference photos, costume breakdowns, and performance plans to create a compelling application. Bards should put some serious thought towards their performance plan. Start early, reach out for assistance if needed, and embrace the opportunity to showcase your passion and skills in the world of cosplay. Your journey starts with a stellar application – make it shine!
