Cosplay Contest

MAGWest Cosplay Contest Rules & Guidelines

A contest for cosplayers of all interests and skills. A chance to show off on stage, roleplay as your favorite character and win prizes. Get a commemorative sticker for coming to the event for stopping by.

In order to participate, each contestant will need a badge. To register visit, www.magwest.org/registration

Event time: Saturday, September 28, 2024, 1-2:30 pm

Sign up Location: Saturday, September 28, 2024, 10am - 12pm* behind the registration desk
* LAST SIGN UPS ACCEPTED AT 11:40AM

Event Location: Variety Stage, Second Floor

General Safety Rules

MAGWest is rated E for everyone so please keep it safe and appropriate for everyone of all ages.

  • All contestants must follow MAGWest’s Code of Conduct and Dress Code.

  • All contestants must have the appropriate amount of clothes on at all times. No stripping.

  • All props must adhere to MAGWest's weapons policy.

    • Prop weapons are welcome but must be checked in with security promptly upon arrival. Sharp corners, metal rods, or any other elements of weapons that may be dangerous to others will not be allowed. If constructing a prop please err on the side of caution, or contact us ahead of time for approval.

    • No real weapons, or any item that can be easily mistaken for a weapon, may be carried either openly or concealed at any time in festival space, regardless of any concealed carry permits. An exception will be made for folding pocket knives without double-edged blades that are no longer than four inches. If a prop weapon or folding pocket knife is held or used in a threatening way, it will be considered a weapon. On such occasions, a staff member may take any reasonable measures to ensure the continued safety of MAGWest attendees, which could include remanding the attendee in question immediately to the custody of the local police. These policies are enforced at all times.

  • No special effects for the purpose of the contest, including smoke machines, fire, dry ice, liquid, or anything else that could potentially disrupt operations.

  • DO NOT throw items offstage, at the audience or judges.

  • As a reminder, alcohol and smoking/vaping are not permitted in MAGWest function rooms and stages.

Prejudging

Talk to the judges about your costume. From your inspiration, the materials and techniques.

*Prejudging is required to be eligible for the “Craftsmanship” and “Best in show” awards.

Prejudging will be open from 10 am - 12 pm.

Location: Table will be behind the registration desk.

Guidelines for the stage

  • Each contestant gets about 30 seconds to do their walkup. Once done they will simply exit off the stage.

  • Young kids that need supervision can have their parent/guardian be with them on stage. This also goes for people who need assistance moving.

  • If contestants want to perform as a group they may. (Will be judged as a group as one entry for performance but can be individually judged for craftsmanship.)

  • We, the Magwest staff, reserve the right to refuse entry or participation to anyone for any reason.

Categories

The following list is an example breakdown of the awards that may be awarded. However, at the judge’s discretion they may choose to omit or add to the awards as they deem appropriate for the entries received.

  • Judges choice - An honorable mention that needs to be awarded.

  • The Fan Favorite - The favorite of the crowd. Had the most cheers and brought the most smiles.

  • Best Performer - The best act on stage. In their short amount of time this person really embodied the character.

  • Best Craftsmanship - Costume and/or props are really well made and impressive. *Prejudging required

  • Best In Show - Best entry overall of the whole competition, based on their score, their costume and performance is well deserved. Wowed everyone with everything they got. *Prejudging required

Cosplay Judges