We know there will always be many questions concerning entering the masquerade, but hopefully the information below will help. If something isn’t covered that you need to know prior to the event, please direct your questions to the forum or to cosplay@ayacon.org.uk.

Registration opens on the 31st July and will close on the 17th August. To all competition and Eurocosplay participants - you will be entered into the masquerade automatically to perform in a separate section of the event, please do not apply for a place in the masquerade using the form.

As a cosplayer, what do I need to do?
Simply put, all you need to do is to register before the event, then turn up on the day with your costume and strut your stuff! The event will be held on the Saturday evening over a course of a few hours, and will require your attendance at 1pm in the Butterworth Hall on Saturday for a rehearsal and checking your details. If you do not attend this - you may not be able to take part in the masquerade.
This year, the masquerade at Aya will be done in a catwalk style. You will enter on stage to your introduction, and will have the full run of the catwalk to show off your costume and pose.

How do I register?
To participate in the masquerade you must be registered for the convention, but entry is free. Entries need to be submitted via an online form, registration will open on the 31st July and run until the 17th August, or when all spaces are taken.

Can I enter with a group of people?
Due to the catwalk style of the masquerade, a maximum of two people can promenade at one time safely. If you wish to enter in a larger group, you will be asked to go up on stage together and strike a pose while each member or small groups takes their turn on the catwalk. We've removed the previous limit of 10 people, although please make sure to state the number of people in your group on the form so we can adequately prepare.
If you have exceedingly wide or bulky costumes however, we suggest either entering solo or with a much smaller number of people.

At the masquerade rehearsal (Saturday, 1pm) you will be able to see the stage properly. Once the briefing is over you be able to do practice runs if you wish, if you want to coordinate poses within a group for example.

Are there any rules concerning non anime and manga costumes?
As long as you are in a costume it doesn't matter if your outfit is from the latest shounen manga, a tribute to your favourite idol singer or a creation from your own design. Over the last few years we've seen some stunning original designs, so we don't wish to clamp down on rules regarding where the costumes are from - all costumes are welcome.

Can I enter with a bought costume?
As the masquerade is non competitive, there are no restrictions concerning store-bought or commissioned costumes.

Can I do a performance?
The masquerade is a walk-on performance only, you may act in character while walking and posing, and perhaps have a brief interaction with other characters if you are in a group, but a staged act or performance is not permitted due to time and tech requirements. For those wishing to do a performance in their outfits, Ayacon's Sunday Night Live would be more suited to you.

Can we provide our own music?
The masquerade will be a flowing performance of cosplayers - to keep that feeling we will be providing music for the event. As such for people entering the masquerade only, will not be able to have specific music.

I have limited vision/movement in my costume – is this a problem?
Entering, promenading on and exiting the stage involve no steps, but the catwalk itself is raised from where the audience is sitting – if you have limited visibility please let us know via the registration form or on the day and we will arrange an escort for you on stage to avoid any mishaps!