When was the last time you wore fancy dress? Did you know it was growing in popularity around the world?
Rather than being called fancy dress, it is now known around the world as cosplay.
Cosplay, or costume role-play, is a global phenomenon where fans of franchises from all forms of media dress up as their favourite pop culture icons.
According to trading platform Liquid, the global cosplay industry is estimated at a value of more than $45 billion and is growing at a rate of 15 per cent each year.
Cosplay is so big that Melbourne is hosting a two-day cosplay event at the Royal Exhibition Building on 30–31 January next year, which will be attended by legendary Star Trek actor William Shatner.
As well as a stellar career in Star Trek, the Emmy and two-time Golden Globe-winning actor has also starred in globally successful TV series Boston Legal and TJ Hooker as well as more than 50 movies across eight decades including the Miss Congeniality films and cult classic Dodgeball.
Mr Shatner will take part in a Q&A session as well as meeting and greeting fans and participating in one-on-one photos and autograph signings with fans over both days of Melbourne’s Cospendium convention.
“When you’ve been around as long as I have and worked in this business for so long, there’s a heck of a lot to share,” Mr Shatner said. “I’m very excited to be bringing the spirit of the Starship Enterprise, Boston Legal and more down under.
“One of the surprising things I discovered years ago about conventions is that they’re filled with love.
“It’s very special to be up on that stage and share a unique moment with thousands of people at once – I can’t wait to feel the love when we usher in the first-ever Cospendium!”
Have you heard about cosplay? When was the last time you wore fancy dress? Do you think this sort of event will be a success in Australia?
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