Where are you from?
I am originally from Rochester, England but I moved to Rochester, New York to be with my husband about 20 years ago.
How long have you been cosplaying?
My first proper cosplay was probably for the #DressLikeADemon contest in 2016 that Lesley-Ann Brandt hosted to promote Lucifer and then I won a signed picture from her. Everything escalated from there.
How did you first become interested in cosplay?
I've always been fascinated with dressing up but with vlogging, and then after the Lucifer contest it kind of took on a life of its own. I've always been a bit different and cosplay really lets you explore that.
What are some characters you have cosplayed?
Maze from Lucifer, River Song from Doctor Who, The "Posessed" Linda from Witchboard (which is one of my personal favorites), Stahma Tarr from the TV show Defiance, Several of the characters from the new Sandman series on Netflix, Keeley Jones from Ted Lasso .... honestly there are so many, and I take requests from my fans so LOTS have stemmed from there. I showcase new ones almost every Sunday on my Melanie's Muses Facebook live show!
What are some of your future cosplay plans?
I am debuting a new one at FC3 which I am really excited about. It's the first one that I have had custom armor made for and relates to a new book series from Author Susan Harris. I am also working on a fan-requested Pam from True Blood (when she is cursed and half rotting).
What is the most time consuming part of creating a cosplay?
The most time consuming part is usually deciding how I want to interpret them if it’s a specific person, or what look I’m going for if it’s an original character. Things also often then to change as I start working on them too. I usually try and pick a vibe, or with characters what I connect with about them, and then go from there.
What is your biggest cosplay pet peeve?
When people make negative comments about how the characters might not exactly match the original. If you love a character then you should go for it and interpret it YOUR way. If people don't like it they should mind their own business. Cosplay is an escape and everyone should be welcome to enjoy it!
Favorite movie? Video game? TV show? Band?Movie - True Romance Video Game - Bloody Roar 3 TV Show - Salem Band - HIM
Outside of cosplay, what are some of your other hobbies?
Reading, I watch a TON of TV and weird obscure movies. Oh and collecting Funko Pops - they are literally taking over the house at this point!
Where can fans find more of you?
https://www.melaniesmuses.com/