Cosplay: A History

Explicit content warning

06/29/22 • 89 min

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I had the unique and exciting opportunity to interview Andrew Liptak about his new book, Cosplay: A History. We hit the ground running with Andrew giving us his full blown origin story and how Star Wars pretty much kick-started his love of pop culture and all things nerdy. From learning Star Wars themed music pieces in high school band, to even joining the 501st Legion. That latter part is the overall theme in this book as it takes a look at the history of cosplay from the very first cosplayer ever recorded back in the 1930s to people attending the World Fair and so much more. In this chat, Andrew frames his time around the 501st as the blueprint for charting cosplay's growth into the mainstream status it's at currently. From things like cosplayers going from hobbyists to pros, making their mark in the movie industry, to individuals like Yaya Han bringing foam and her own fabric line to retailers like Jo-Ann's. There's a lot more to be heard in this conversation I have so be sure to listen to the whole thing! Cosplay: A History is available now at your local bookstore and Amazon!
Be sure to keep in touch with Andrew's adventures via the link below!
https://linktr.ee/AndrewLiptak
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twitch.tv/blulightningcos

Previous Episode

MegaCon 2022

For today's episode, Kayjora Cosplay joins me once again as we talk about her time at MegaCon in Florida a few weeks ago! Through working with Misty Mountain Gaming, Kayjora was able to work at their booth to help sell merch from both the company in addition to her own cosplay prints. Throughout our chat, we talk about Kay's cosplays that she wore. Each of which are standout in terms of its craftsmanship from Rani's massive hat from Elden Ring, to the sexier side of the Witch King from LotR. We go into more details regarding to MMG's line of products, Kayjora's personal favorites alongside participating in tabletop games like Dungeons and Dragons. Many other cosplayers/influencers are a part of Misty Mountain's Influencer group so there were some familiar names there when it came to looking at who populated that group. Kay chats about her high points at the con PLUS a look at her upcoming cosplays and how she views each new project. Enjoy! <3

Check out all of Kayjora's links through the site below!
https://kayjora.vip
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twitch.tv/blulightningcos

Next Episode

Fanime + Anime Expo 2022

Today I'm excited to have the opportunity to have Maru on again as we dived into her time going to both Fanime and Anime Expo which took place in May and July respectively. Throughout our chat, we dive more into Maru's gaming obsessions which extend through her outfits she wore such as the Dancer class from FF14, Jessie in booty shorts from FF7 Remake, Mature Tifa and so many others. From practically selling me on trying Elden Ring at some point to even having heartfelt chats about being a full time content creator. I mull over my thoughts about changing my own stream schedule again and seeing if I really enjoy it enough to pursue it harder as well. We even go into what makes Maru decide on future projects at this point and how she wants to challenge herself with each new build <3. This was such a fun time and I apologize for the wait. Really hope you enjoy it! :)

Be sure to follow Maru's work via the link below!
https://linktr.ee/maruwins
Follow me on Twitch!
twitch.tv/blulightningcos