Teens can dress as favourite characters at new Cosplay Club in Wicklow Library

The new venture got under way near the end of July as Wicklow Town Library hosted a teen Cosplay Pageant featuring young people wearing amazing, handmade costumes. These were the end result of a month-long series of workshops aimed at helping a group of teens create character costumes from their favourite books, comics, movies, manga, and television series.

They learned sewing and make-up techniques, as well as how to build props. They also gained confidence in public speaking as they had to explain to the audience who their character was. The pageant drew an enthusiastic crowd and afterwards the young people won prizes including tickets to Dublin Comic Con.

Due to the positive feedback from the teens and parents, a regular monthly Cosplay Club is being organised in the library with 15 teens already signed up.

Deputy Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Michael Nicholson couldn’t contain his enthusiasm as he said: “This activity is a winner for teens; it’s a chance to express their individuality, socialise and build friendships while learning practical and valuable skills.”

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Tommy Annesley, said: “It’s refreshing to hear about a new venture such as Cosplay, young people having the opportunity to develop a new hobby and learn hands-on skills such as sewing, making props and applying make-up sounds like a very resourceful way to put in a couple of hours.”

To register an interest in joining Cosplay Club, please contact Loretta by email at Wicklow Library wicklib@wicklowcoco.ie.