THOSE passing through the University of Reading this weekend will be forgiven for mistaking its Whiteknights campus for an alternative universe.
That’s because CosXPo will be returning for its fourth running on April 1 and 2 – a cosplay event which focuses on developing crafting and photography skills.
Taking place across various rooms at the university’s 3Sixty venue, the schedule is jam-packed with workshops, live demos, competitions, exhibition stalls and even a VIP after-party.
The event’s managing director, Kenny Lam, said: “We’re really excited – a little nervous and stressed though – all the emotions really. We’re expecting around 1,300 people this year, having had 700 come to our first event.
“It’ll be a great chance to learn how to make costumes – we’ll see armour made from materials like camping or yoga mats using embroidery, hoops and other patterns.
“There’ll also be competitions running, including the European qualifiers, with winners going to France and Austria.
He added that CosXPo differs from bigger comic cons, where cosplay is often a smaller part of the event.
CosXPo will have some vendors on site, but largely focuses on classroom activities, so visitors can come away having learned a skill which will help enhance their enjoyment of cosplay.
It prides itself on providing the ideal opportunity to share knowledge and expertise, while speaking to industry professionals and accomplished cosplayers.
Live demonstrations include a crash course into cinematic lighting, working with plus size cosplay, leather embossing, designing foam-fitting bodysuits and modern silicone techniques.
The workshops are targeted at anyone from cosplay veterans to those starting out for the first time.
Winners of CosXPo’s cosplay competition and showcase will qualify to represent the UK at the European Cosplay Gathering in Paris and the Tournament of Champions in Austria.
There will also be a photography competition where entrants will demonstrate their talents with both natural and artificial light.
The event starts at 11am on both days at the university’s 3Sixty venue.
Tickets are £18 per day or £32 for both, with VIP tickets for the weekend costing £40.
For more information or to secure tickets, visit: www.cosxpo.com
