Violating any Masquerade or Convention rules will automatically disqualify you and a serious violation may result in removal from the convention.
All participants (including each member in group entries) must have a valid membership (badge) for AnimeNEXT. You can view our registration help articles here.
All entries must choose the proper Skill Division as listed in the Cosplay Masquerade Entries section. Any entries that are submitted to the incorrect skill division may be denied, disqualified, or moved to the proper division at the sole discretion of the Cosplay Masquerade Staff.
Non-competing entries are allowed, but priority for slots will be given to competing participants in the interest of ensuring a diverse and fair contest.
Each participant may only be involved in one skit each. You cannot participate in multiple skits.
Each group is limited to 10 people. This includes stage ninjas, as no more than 10 people are allowed on stage at any given time… even if they are dressed in camouflage.
AnimeNEXT is an all-ages event; As such, all performances & costumes may be kept to a PG-13 level. No explicit gestures, nudity, swearing, dancing, etc. participants are expected to carry themselves in a respectful manner onstage and backstage.
For safety reasons, oversized costumes or props that cannot easily navigate the stairs or backstage area will not be allowed. All participants must be able to get on and off the stage via the stage stairs without interrupting the event or causing undue delay.
While backstage, during walk-ons, or during check-in, you must stay in the designated area to which you are assigned. Anyone found loitering in areas that are off-limits will be subject to dismissal from the event and/or the convention itself.
Any items brought onstage with you must also exit the stage with you. No throwing or use of toilet paper, tissues, rice, water, fireworks, pyrotechnics, etc. Please respect the stage and leave it clean.
Reference material is required upon submitting your application. More information on reference material is available in the Cosplay Masquerade Entries section.
All participants must attend mandatory rehearsal on Saturday morning. Rehearsals will be done by appointment; if you do not show up to your rehearsal you will forfeit your right to perform. You can find more information in the Cosplay Masquerade Check-In section.
Acrobatics or martial arts are not allowed on the stage however, we will allow slower, choreographed, dance-like movements. Be sure to indicate such this in your application. Safety first!
Microphones WILL NOT be provided. We STRONGLY suggest pre-recording all dialogue or music. Live musical performances are permitted – however, they must be approved by the Masquerade Staff prior to the show, please indicate this information in your application.
If you are using pre-recorded audio it must be in .MP3 format and MUST be submitted prior to or during check-in.
You can submit an audio file in your application, but you can also update this audio file with a link our Staff will provide after reviewing your application.
There is a time limit for each skit based on the total number of participants in the group. The time limits are as follows:
1 or 2 Participants - 45 seconds
3-5 Participants - 2 minutes
6-10 Participants - 2:30 minutes
AnimeNEXT Staff is not permitted to enter the competition.
The Cosplay Masquerade Staff will have the final say regarding concerns.
