COSPLAY
Looking for cosplay meet ups and photoshoots?
Official Cosplay Frames
Want to share your cosplans for Tekko this year? Feel free to use our special frame and share them on social media!
Cosplay Guests
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Uptown Cosplay
Masquerade MC
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Lee the Leef
Performance Judge
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Clover Aura
Performance Judge
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Jack Erufu
Craftsmanship Judge
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Kiwi Ninamori
Craftsmanship Judge
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Steff von Shweetz
Craftsmanship Judge
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Marmalade
Performance Judge
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Claire Max
Influencer
Cosplay Lip Sync Showcase
Kicking off cosplay events on Thursday evening, Tekko is excited to invite you to join the Cosplay Lip Sync Showcase with Uptown Cosplay!
Whether your aim is to make the audience laugh out loud, hit ‘em right in the feels, or make everyone lose their voices from cheering, we welcome you to strut your stuff onstage and express yourself!
This event is a showcase, as opposed to a contest, to be welcoming and enjoyable for participants of all skill levels without the pressures of a competitive structure. The Showcase is designed to 1) give everyone the platform and spotlight to perform and tell a story as beloved characters, and 2) to entertain the audience and show them a good time!
If this sounds like fun to you, then let’s get started!
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RULES:
This is a show intended for general audiences. Song choices, costumes, and performances must refrain from profanity, explicit content, or anything that goes beyond Tekko’s guidelines for PG-13 programming.
Please ensure songs do not exceed 3:30 in length if possible! If a song you request is too long, it may be cut short during the show. We recommend editing your own song and attaching it as an MP3 or WAV file down below for best results.
Submitting an application does not necessarily guarantee a spot in the showcase! If you are not initially selected, you will be contacted at the provided e-mail address about your status, waitlist placement, etc.
You can surprise the audience, but never surprise the staff and crew! If you are planning a stunt/intending to throw props/use large objects that may require assistance to move on- or offstage/etc., please inform us so that we can ensure it is safe for you and everyone else.
Any offensive or inappropriate behavior, hate speech or symbols, or discrimination towards others or in your performance will not be tolerated. We will always foster a supportive and positive atmosphere in our community.
There may be opportunities for in-character interactions during the show. This is by no means a requirement, but if you have ideas for a “bit” in regards to your character, your host(s) will be more than happy to discuss ideas and potentially improvise something during the show!
Let’s Begin Your Application!
IRON COSPLAY
Cosplay crafters will test their mettle in a fast-paced trash to treasure speed building Contest!
Builders will work together as a team of 4 to turn scrap materials into an epic costume with only an hour on the clock! Along the way, audience members will have the chance to play mini games to aid their champions be it through advantages for their team or extra challenges for other competitors.
Iron Cosplay will take place on Sunday at noon at Hall stage. Any potential builders should show up 10 minutes beforehand. Those who sign up in advance will have first priority to join a team, but additional positions may be available at con.
Rules of Play
Teams will consist of 3 main builders and 1 model - the model is allowed and encouraged to help with building, but they must be wearing all parts of the cosplay when the timer ends
Teams will roll a die for the first pick of a selection of potential cosplay builds
Teams will be provided with some basic crafting tools - scissors, markers, duct-tape, and hot-glue. Everything else will come from supply runs to the scrap pile
The hour of build time will start directly after the first supply run is complete
Throughout the hour of build time there will be various audience mini games where audience members can help their champions. For each minigame won, that team will receive random advantages or challenges to the competing teams. These can be things like extra supply runs, having to use safety scissors for a little bit, having to have a builder sit out, etc.
When the time runs out, our lovely Iron Cosplay judges will get an opportunity to have a final look at our finished cosplays and speak with the builders before deciding on the winning team
SAFETY FIRST GROUND RULES - any unsafe or inconsiderate behavior will be grounds for disqualification and removal from the event.
Use all tools with caution. Hot glue is in fact hot. No running with scissors even if you gotta go fast. ABSOLUTELY NO DUCT TAPE WILL BE USED ON SKIN.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR MODELS. They were willing to get on stage and let you duct tape cardboard and scrap fabrics to them on Sunday of con. It is your job as a team to ensure they are okay with all scrap attachments and that they stay hydrated and comfortable throughout the competition.
The only team sabotages are the ones on the wheel and dished out by the host. You are welcome to throw good-natured jabs at your competitors, but you are not welcome to hurt or hinder them outside of our silly colorful game wheel.
HAVE FUN AND STAY HYDRATED - at the end of the day, contest may be in the name, but this is all a game built for your fun and entertainment. Enjoy it, don't be afraid to be silly, and make some really cool trash.
The Magic of Cosplay Exhibit
Welcome to a unique experience, here at Tekko! Once again we welcome The Magic of Cosplay Exhibit! We believe in Cos-Positivity and look forward to another wonderful year.
We have secured a number of beautiful costumes, props, and wigs for your viewing pleasure. The exhibit will give you a chance to get up close and personal with the creations, but please, No Touching. Don’t worry, we do have some great items that you can touch and a project you can participate in. We have videos, costume construction books, and a Cos-Positivity question for all to answer.
We hope the exhibit will inspire you to get creative! Our experienced Cosplay Staff will be present to answer any and all questions you may have. We look forward to seeing you at the convention.
Cosplay Competitions
Cosplay Sponsors
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The Five Wits Wigs
Friendly cosplayers selling heat-resistant cosplay and costume wigs.
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Surreal Makeup
Eco-centric, designer cosmetics hand blended in the USA from only the finest choice, ethically sourced natural and synthetic minerals, micas and ingredients from around the globe.
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Surebonder
Surebonder has been a trusted name in hot melt solutions since 1968, leading the way as a pioneer in manufacturing hot melt adhesives and innovative hot glue guns. With decades of expertise, Surebonder continues to provide reliable, industry-leading products
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1. Competition entries must comply with all Tekko dress code and conduct policies. [https://tekko.us/rules]
2. Entrants must be registered attendees of Tekko. Active Tekko staff and current guests are not permitted to compete.
3. Costumes or performances that have won major awards are not allowed to compete unless major revisions or significant improvements have been made. Please review the Division below. Participants may not enter a costume that has been judged in any previous Tekko craftsmanship contests.
- Tekko has zero tolerance for sandbagging (recompeting with an awarded performance/costume, entering at a lower level, falsifying commissions/purchased costumes, etc). Any competitor found to be sandbagging will be barred from future competition at Tekko.
4. Please arrive at least 5 minutes prior to scheduled appointments. If the participant is not present at their assigned time, they will forfeit their right to compete.
5. The contest judges are chosen with their experience and integrity in mind, and our staff endeavor to create a fair and welcoming competition. Any concerns with judging outcomes or the competition should be brought to Tekko cosplay staff. Those found to be disparaging competition results in public forums without attempting to discuss with staff may be barred from future competition at Tekko.
6. The Masquerade will be held on Saturday on the Main Stage at 2:00 PM. Entrants and handlers must arrive no later than 1:30 pm. Performance rehearsals are Saturday at 10am.
CRAFTSMANSHIP
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1. Only costumes handcrafted by the entrant are allowed to be entered into the Craftsmanship contest. Commissioned, store-bought, or thrifted costumes cannot compete. Most of the costume should be made from scratch or heavily altered.
2. Craftsmanship judging will be held on Friday evening and Saturday. Competitors may only enter 1 costume for craftsmanship. Preference for a Friday or Saturday time slot will be included in the application form.
- Entrants with a Friday judging time may participate in the Performance portion of the Masquerade. The costume used for performance does not have to be the same as submitted for craftsmanship.
- Entrants with a Saturday judging may compete only for craftsmanship, due to conflict with performance rehearsal.
3. Official designs or fan art designs of licensed characters from any media source are welcome to compete. Original characters will not be permitted. All entries must have accompanying reference materials brought to their judging appointment. Participants will be judged on faithfulness to the design in addition to craftsmanship.
4. If a costume will be modeled by someone else, the crafter of the costume is considered the entrant. They are the person who must submit the application, speak to the judges, and the one eligible for a craftsmanship award, not the person wearing the costume.
5. All craftsmanship awards will be presented during the Masquerade main event. Craftsmen are encouraged to participate in the Walk-On portion of the show with their entered costume, but it is not required. If the entrant cannot participate for any reason, please notify a judge or staff member during the scheduled judging session. goes here
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Junior: Participants 15 years of age or younger. This category is meant to encourage young participants to develop their crafting skills. As such, Junior entries must have made most of their own costume. Costumes made by adults for juniors cannot compete at the Junior level and must compete at the skill level of their creator.
Novice: You are new to costume making or have received no major awards*. Novices are expected to have hand-made or altered at minimum 50-60% of their cosplay. This category encompasses beginner cosplayers and first-time competitors who may already have foundational skills.
Journeyman: You have some experience in costume making or have received no more than 2 major awards. Journeymen are expected to demonstrate intermediate skill in several areas (fabrication, wig styling, textiles, detailed finishings, etc).
Master: You are an experienced costumer or have received 3 or more major awards. Masters are expected to show competence in applied skills and have made at minimum 80-90% of their cosplay.
PERFORMANCE
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1. Tekko is an all-ages event and performance material must reflect such. No explicit sexual references or gestures, obscene language, graphic violence, or nudity is permitted.
- All audio must be edited for content.
- Stage combat and other more physical things will need approval at rehearsal to ensure the safety of attendees and equipment.
- Anything that comes on the stage with you must leave the stage with you. Confetti, glitter, silly string, and other “messy” props are prohibited. Your performance must also be limited to the stage area.
2. Performers are required to be in cosplay or costume. Hand-made costumes are encouraged but not required for the Performance contest.
- Performance competitors are not judged on their costume and will not participate in the Walk-On portion of the Masquerade. You are welcome to compete in Craftsmanship as well based on availability of Friday judging times. Please review the Craftsmanship rules above if you are interested in entering both competitions.
3. Saturday morning performance rehearsal is mandatory unless cleared with the coordinator prior to the start of Tekko.
4. Set pieces may be stored backstage and must fit within a 5ftx5ft footprint. Storage needs must be communicated to Cosplay staff prior to the event.
5. The run timee for all performances must be between 1.5 - 2 minutes.
- Pre-recorded music and/or dialogue is HIGHLY ENCOURAGED and PREFERRED. We cannot guarantee more than 1 microphone. You will be asked to submit your audio file via email before the convention.
6. You will be required to submit a script or outline of your skit as part of the application for the Performance competition. Applications will be juried to ensure a variety of performances during the masquerade.1. Tekko is an all-ages event and performance material must reflect such. No explicit sexual references or gestures, obscene language, graphic violence, or nudity is permitted.
- All audio must be edited for content.
- Stage combat and other more physical things will need approval at rehearsal to ensure the safety of attendees and equipment.
- Anything that comes on the stage with you must leave the stage with you. Confetti, glitter, silly string, and other “messy” props are prohibited. Your performance must also be limited to the stage area.
2. Performers are required to be in cosplay or costume. Hand-made costumes are encouraged but not required for the Performance contest.
- Performance competitors are not judged on their costume and will not participate in the Walk-On portion of the Masquerade. You are welcome to compete in Craftsmanship as well based on availability of Friday judging times. Please review the Craftsmanship rules above if you are interested in entering both competitions.
3. Saturday morning performance rehearsal is mandatory unless cleared with the coordinator prior to the start of Tekko.
4. Set pieces may be stored backstage and must fit within a 5ftx5ft footprint. Storage needs must be communicated to Cosplay staff prior to the event.
5. The run timee for all performances must be between 1.5 - 2 minutes.
- Pre-recorded music and/or dialogue is HIGHLY ENCOURAGED and PREFERRED. We cannot guarantee more than 1 microphone. You will be asked to submit your audio file via email before the convention.
6. You will be required to submit a script or outline of your skit as part of the application for the Performance competition. Applications will be juried to ensure a variety of performances during the masquerade. -
Performance
Novice: You are new to performing or have received no major awards*. This category encompasses beginner cosplayers and first-time competitors.
Journeyman: You have some experience on stage or have received no more than 2 major awards. Journeymen are expected to demonstrate intermediate skill in several areas (utilization of stage, audio mixing, audience engagement, etc).
Master: You are an experienced performer or have received 3 or more major awards.
*Major award examples include: ";Best Of…,"; "Best In…," "First Place," "Second Place," and so on. Judges'; awards, fan favorite awards, etc. do not count towards the participant’s skill level. The Tekko Masquerade division levels only consider awards won in the category of entry: performance-only awards do not impact craftsmanship division, and craftsmanship awards to not impact performance division. If you have questions about your division, please reach out to cosplay@pittjcs.org.
Participants may compete in the highest division they feel represents their skills but may not compete at a level lower than their competition history.
- For example, a Best Journeyman winner may not compete as a Novice, but a first-time entrant with 5 years of theater experience does not have to enter as a Novice. We encourage entrants to challenge themselves!
- Once the participant wins an award at a certain level, they can only compete at that level or higher in future.
- In a group, the skill level of that group is determined by the highest classed skill member of that group. For example, a group of Novices with one Journeyman must all compete as Journeymen.Performance
Novice: You are new to performing or have received no major awards*. This category encompasses beginner cosplayers and first-time competitors.
Journeyman: You have some experience on stage or have received no more than 2 major awards. Journeymen are expected to demonstrate intermediate skill in several areas (utilization of stage, audio mixing, audience engagement, etc).
Master: You are an experienced performer or have received 3 or more major awards.
*Major award examples include: ";Best Of…,"; "Best In…," "First Place," "Second Place," and so on. Judges'; awards, fan favorite awards, etc. do not count towards the participant’s skill level. The Tekko Masquerade division levels only consider awards won in the category of entry: performance-only awards do not impact craftsmanship division, and craftsmanship awards to not impact performance division. If you have questions about your division, please reach out to cosplay@pittjcs.org.
Participants may compete in the highest division they feel represents their skills but may not compete at a level lower than their competition history.
- For example, a Best Journeyman winner may not compete as a Novice, but a first-time entrant with 5 years of theater experience does not have to enter as a Novice. We encourage entrants to challenge themselves!
- Once the participant wins an award at a certain level, they can only compete at that level or higher in future.
- In a group, the skill level of that group is determined by the highest classed skill member of that group. For example, a group of Novices with one Journeyman must all compete as Journeymen.
WALK-ONS
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Description text goes hereWalk-Ons are a runway-style showcase of cosplayers featured during the Masquerade. You walk the stage, pose a few times and that’s it! This portion of the event features both craftsmanship competitors and non-judged exhibition participants.
This portion is open to all costumes from any genres, as well as original designs. You do not have to have made your costume to participate.
Registration for walk-ons will be done at-con before the Masquerade.
- Please come to Main Events an hour before the competition starts and staff will direct you. There are limited spots available and they will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Craftmanship entrants are already accounted for and do not need to sign up separately.
- Walk-ons do not attend Performance rehearsals. Please have the following information ready to go! This will be provided to the MC, who will read it to the audience as you walk on stage.
IF YOU ARE WALKING ALONE
1. The name you want to be called on stage. This is YOUR name, not your character’s name. A cosplay handle, nickname, or first name are all acceptable.
2. The character or design that you are cosplaying.
3. The source material of the character. If you are not cosplaying from a series, you do not need this information.
Examples:
Erica as Princess Jasmine from Disney’s Aladdin
Bob Cosplay as an original fox spirit design
John as Shoto Todoroki from My Hero Academia
IF YOU ARE WALKING AS A GROUP
1. List all group members on one card, including name, character, and series as above. Make sure that they are all comfortable with the name you provide being broadcast.
2. The title(s) of the media the character(s) are from. If you are not cosplaying from a series, you do not need this information.
3. You do not all have to be from the same series, but all groups must be under ten people.
Example:
Erica as Kyoko Kirigiri, Bob Cosplay as Makoto Naegi, and John as Monobear from Dangan Ronpa
Dragon Cosplay as Batman and Evan as Goku from Dragonball Z
Shiny Idols as Aquors from Love Live!
COSPLAY REPAIR STATION
Cosplay Repair Hours
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THUR | July 23
5:00PM - 8:30PM
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FRI | July 24
10:00AM - 11:00PM
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SAT | July 25
10:00AM - 11:00PM
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SUN | July 26
10:00AM - 2:00PM
It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood Cosplay Repair Room! Look for the helpers--that's us!
We are an experienced team of hard-working makers, ready to help you handle the mishaps and the mayhem. Whether it's loose threads, a snapped prop, melting shoes, or a "wardrobe malfunction", your neighbors have your back!
Steel City Skills (Free for all badge holders):
The All-Star Crew: highly skilled help for Sewing, Wigs, Glues, Electronics, 3D prints and Paint.
Championship Prep: Dedicated stations to fix your gear, style your wig or prep for judging!
A Safe Space: Private dressing rooms to change outfits.
One City, One Team: Not a cosplayer? No problem! If you rip your pants, tear a top, lose the sole of a shoe, come see us--we're here for everyone!
Stop Dahn and Get Redd Up: Mosey on over and see us! Just bring your gear, we'll get you sorted.
Cosplay Guest Suggestions
Would you or someone you know make an amazing cosplay-themed guest at Tekko? Let us know who you want to see and why!
