"It's the freedom of expression, [having] a haven and an opportunity to play with gender, with identity. To exist in a sea of people who accept who you are without judgement,” Evelyn told VICE as she sat within the weather-worn walls of her modestly furnished room. With costumes neatly tucked away in zip-close bags beneath shelves, she reflected on her experiences as a cosplayer and how it has helped her explore her sexual identity.“It's the freedom of expression, [having] a haven and an opportunity to play with gender, with identity. To exist in a sea of people who accept who you are without judgement.”
Evelyn Goh as Toga Himiko from 'My Hero Academia.' Photo: Alvin Ng
Evelyn Goh’s stuffed toy collection of her favorite Pokemon, Mew. Photo: Alvin Ng
Evelyn Goh as Plague Doctor from ‘SCP Foundation.’ Photo: Alvin Ng
Chris Lee as Saber from ‘Fate/Stay Night.’ Photo: Alvin Ng
Such an opportunity is rare in countries like Singapore, where freedom of expression and choice is a complicated and sensitive subject. This is true across many aspects of life — hobbies, fashion, lifestyle, and sexuality. People fear rejection from their loved ones and public shaming online or in real life. In a way, to truly understand cosplay, one must embody a character too. That of the fans — to put one’s self in the shoes of another faced with such a predicament. Imagine feeling fearful and anxious. Then, have those disappear and replaced by the warmth of acceptance after stepping into character. The real world fades away and you’re in a new one.“I turned to cosplay, which offers me a safe space where I'm able to dress up freely, away from reality, and also express my appreciations to my favorite characters.”
Chris Lee as Saber from ‘Fate/Stay Night.’ Photo: Alvin Ng
Phoenix Tan, 26, as Sasori from ‘Naruto.’ Photo: Alvin Ng
Caption: Dan as Kurosaki Ranmaru from ‘Uta no Prince-sama.’ Photo: Alvin Ng
