Join us for an exciting panel discussion on "Getting Into Cosplay," hosted by Spielventure's Art & Victory series in partnership with Soonercon. This session is perfect for both aspiring cosplayers and seasoned enthusiasts, offering invaluable insights into the art of costume creation and character portrayal. Our expert panelists share their experiences, tips, and tricks on everything from selecting your first character to sourcing materials, mastering crafting techniques, and refining performance skills. Whether you're just beginning your cosplay journey or aiming to elevate your skills, this discussion will provide the inspiration and knowledge you need to bring your favorite characters to life.

THE PANELISTS:

Rachel Karch (R Karch Photography)

"I've spent years organizing events, supporting conventions and charities, and working in marketing. With over 14 years of experience in cosplay, I've worn many hats in the cosplay community. Recently, I've discovered a deep passion for cosplay photography. I love showing cosplayers how stunning and talented they truly are. It's incredibly rewarding when people tell me I make them look beautiful because I get to reveal the beauty that was already there, allowing them to see themselves through my lens."

Levi Hornsby (Levicious Cosplay)

"My love for cosplay started in 2017 when I went to Fan Expo Dallas. I was blown away by the amazing costumes and the excitement people had while dressed as their favorite characters. In 2019, I decided to give it a try and wore my first store-bought cosplay, Lemillion from My Hero Academia, to a convention. I even entered the cosplay contest, and while I didn't place, it showed me how much effort and skill goes into winning. After that, I started making my own cosplay pieces, learning from YouTube, friends, and lots of trial and error. In 2022, I entered another contest with my future wife, and we actually won first place in the novice class. I've learned and built so much over the years, and each experience has made me love cosplay even more.

Chelsea Hornsby (Sith Princess Cosplay)

My journey in costuming began in the early 2000s through middle and high school theatre. During this time, I developed a love for haunted trails, mastered special effects makeup, and immersed myself in creating unique characters and their stories. In 2021, I discovered a new passion for building cosplays, bringing my favorite characters to life. Since entering the Oklahoma cosplay scene, I have won first-place awards for foam armor work and, alongside Levicious Cosplays, received the Cosplayer of the Month award. I have had the honor of guesting at New World Comic Con and Enid Comic Con, participating in charity work with Funds for Small Heroes, and teaching valuable lessons to kids at the Superhero School hosted by New World Comics. Join us to connect with fellow fans and dive into the vibrant world of cosplay! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more exciting content.

Enjoy the discussion!

Thank you to Resonator for hosting us!

Thank you to Soonercon for working with us!

Join Theatre Crude and Spielventure for illuminating insight and inspiration as Art & Victory proudly presents a panel discussion on the art of creating fringe theatre productions. Whether you're an aspiring playwright, director, actor, or simply intrigued by the magic of theatre-making, this Art & Victory episode is tailored just for you!

Our esteemed panelists, seasoned veterans of the fringe theatre scene, share their invaluable experiences, tips, and tricks for navigating the exhilarating world of independent theatre. From conception to execution, they'll delve into the intricacies of scriptwriting, directing, casting, production design, and everything in between. Gain firsthand knowledge from industry experts and fellow creatives. Whether you're curious about the creative process or eager to embark on your own theatrical journey, this panel discussion promises to fuel your ambition.

THE PANELISTS:

Ashley J. Mandanas is an Oklahoman, non-binary, consent-forward performer. They've acted/sung/danced professionally on stage and screen for over two decades. Theatre Crude has remained a creative home for them since its inaugural year, 2019, and they are endlessly grateful to Jenny and Adam for fostering an environment of love, growth, and creation. Ashley is set alight by new works and devising processes, and has collaboratively devised specifically for Theatre Crude in the past and in the present. A graduate of OU (with a BFA in Musical Theatre), Ashley is a proud fixture of the Oklahoma theatre community, and is not going anywhere else any time soon.

Adam Brand began his career in theatre at Children’s Theatre Company in Minneapolis, MN in 2006 where he continued his employment for 10 years. Over that period he took advantage of opportunities to work and apprentice as carpenter, props artisan, follow spot operator, flyman, and deck crew chief. Adam also made time to work with other theatre companies around Minnesota including Mu Performing Arts, The History Theatre, Interact Center and Walking Shadow Theatre Company. In 2014 Adam wrote and produced his first show for the Minnesota Fringe Festival, adapting the work of Irvin S. Cobb to the stage. Adam moved to Oklahoma City in 2016 and is grateful for the opportunities that the community has provided for him. He is excited to bring Theatre Crude Fringe Festival to this vibrant community.

WHAT IS FRINGE?

Fringe is a national and international phenomenon, with festivals happening in every major city across the globe. Fringe performances are one hour or less, low-tech, and high on ingenuity. No restrictions are made as to the nature, style, theme, or content. All performers are welcome, regardless of professional or amateur status. The result is a festival full of the unexpected.

Theatre Crude Fringe Festival is an event in Oklahoma City every fall, showcasing creative and adventurous local performing artists, as well as fantastic performing artists from across the country (and potentially, the globe).

Learn more about Theatre Crude at https://www.theatrecrude.org