While the activity is not strictly Japanese in origin, the word "cosplay" (costume play) was coined in Japan in 1983, and it has become an enduring pop culture phenomenon in the country.
Sydney based cosplayer, Megumi says she first encountered cosplay in 2014 through a friend.
Megu is normally a “very shy girl”, but when she cosplays, she totally transforms, and not just visually.
Sydney based cosplayer, Megu Source: Lumina Lightworks
“I am able to communicate with others and make friends. I am a completely different person,” the New South Wales woman who works as a croupier tells SBS Japanese.
“Cosplay has allowed my self-development,” she says, acknowledging that this also extends to learning sewing and make-up skills.
Most of her costumes are handmade, and depending on the costume, it can take from a week to few months to complete.
Prior to the COVID pandemic, Megumi was cosplaying 2-3 times a week. Now in her 20's with a stable job, she has considered quitting cosplay, but says she is unable to let go of cosplay that brings smiles to people's faces.
Canberra based cosplayer, Zumi also entered the world of cosplay through a friend.
Canberra based cosplayer Zumi, with his handmade jacket Source: @iscariot_photography
Although Zumi has once left cosplay when the friend quit, upon return, Zumi has been deeply consumed with the art. Today, Zumi enjoys cosplaying outside of events, gathering with other cosplayers to take photos.
In his everyday life, Zumi does not put any make up on.
"All the energy for that goes into cosplay"
Zumi tells SBS Japanese that you can enjoy cosplay however you wish.
"You can buy the costume, or challenge yourself to make one. You can enjoy at your own level, and so cosplay is actually easy to get into"
For Megumi and Izumi's full interview, listen to the audio below.
Sydney will host one of the country's largest Japanese pop culture festivals, Sydney Manga and Anime Show, SMASH!, from July 16-17, with many cosplayers in attendance. This year, the event has sold out weeks in advance. The organisers say the COVID-19 pandemic has played a part.
SMASH! 15th Anniversary T-Shirts!
For your chance to win SMASH! limited edition T-shirts released to commemorate their 15th anniversary, send your name and contact email address to SBS Japanese via email at（japanese.program@sbs.com.au） or to our Facebook page.
There are 3 T shirts to give away (Size M only)
Entry close Sunday, July 24, 9:00 a.m. AEDT. Only winners will be notified.
Listen to SBS Japanese Radio on Tue, Thu and Sat from 10pm(AEST)
