This week we’re shining our spotlight on Northeast cosplayer Robin, AKA Agent of Fulcrum (they/she)!
How long have you been a cosplayer?
I officially considered myself a cosplayer beginning in 2020. Though, I have loved wearing costumes my whole life, so it feels like it’s been much longer!
What got you into cosplay?
During the 2020 pandemic, there was this huge surge of cosplay content online and I really understood the world of cosplay for the first time. It looked so cool, and I wanted to be part of it. I suddenly realized that I had so much costume potential just sitting in my own closet, I started doing closet cosplays at 14. I wanted to keep making better and better costumes and be like those epic cosplayers I saw on Instagram.
Do you make, buy, or use a combination for your costumes?
I love making my cosplays. There is no feeling compared to finally seeing something you’ve been tirelessly crafting come to life and begin to fit your vision. I’m very particular about how I want my cosplays to look, and I’m never fully satisfied- always tweaking things or having plans to make a new version. I’m actually a second year BFA Theatre Costuming major at Penn State, and my cosplays had a big role in my admission. One day, I will have all the skills to make a 100% handmade cosplay- that is my big goal. For now, I make as much as I can: mostly armor and accessories. I usually heavily alter bought pieces to better fit both me and a character.
First cosplay?
My very first “real” cosplay was during the 2020 lockdown: my Mandalorian original character Adinla Dral. Her first version was 99% stuff I already had at home. I patterned and assembled the armor from cardboard boxes, the flight suit was old clothes I wasn’t using, and the boots and accessories were stuff I used for horse showing. The only thing specifically bought for her was a cape. The first time I wore her in public was for my Mandalorian-themed 15th birthday party. She was what made me realize I have a knack for designing. The photos I sent in are of version 2.5, made of EVA foam. She’s still not done- I want to remake it again with 3D printing and add more detail to the soft parts, too!
Latest cosplay?
My newest cosplay is Blitzo from Helluva Boss. I con-crunched a little too close to the sun and it was… certainly a look at Zenkaikon 2024. I didn’t figure out the horns in time and I also didn’t have good body paint. Not my proudest public appearance, but it was fun, nonetheless. I learned a lot from that experience. I properly finished him post-con, and now it’s looking a million times better! I still think the tail looks incredible for being self-patterned and 100% hand sewn from a cheap t-shirt and a pillow in just two days. I cannot wait to wear my improved (and gender swapped) Blitz at my next con!
Favorite thing about being a cosplayer?
My favorite thing is the freedom to be creative and be who you are. Finding cosplay has helped me find my sense of self, to be honest. The cosplay community throws away a lot of “taboo” social restrictions and allows people to express the ‘weirder’ parts of themselves. It’s deeply entwined with the LGBTQ+ community, too, and that assisted in becoming comfortable with my sexuality. Cosplay can be such a safe space, and I’m very grateful for it. I have met so many cool people and made amazing friends through cosplay.
Least favorite thing?
The stigma around fandom and cosplay. I mean, even I was judgy at first. Many people act like all of us are creeps, perverts, and weirdos- and that certainly isn’t the case. It stems from misconceptions, misinformation, and a few bad apples that are made out to be indicative of the whole. There was a Christian protest that brought bomb threats with them to Zenkaikon this past year (2024), and for what? People dressing up for fun? People genuinely enjoying themselves? It was scary because cons are supposed to be safe places for us to gather. I get that a lot of the stuff you may see at cons can be strange and off-putting to those unfamiliar with the culture, but some people’s reactions and comments really can be quite hurtful. Though I’m much more confident than I used to be, l still get kind of nervous to cosplay in public because of this.
What do you do for work outside of cosplay?
Currently, I do stage crew at Penn State’s Bryce Jordan Center. I work backstage and behind the scenes to set up all the concerts and events that happen there throughout the year. I’ve worked for big name concerts like Kasey Musgraves and Zach Bryan, and unique events like Olympic qualifier trials and The Price is Right. Though it’s hard work and late hours, it’s much more interesting than a desk job and I learn a lot about backstage showbiz.
What are your top 3 fandoms?
Star Wars, specifically The Mandalorian. Honestly… it’s mainly Star Wars, for me LOL. I also love Good Omens and Five Nights at Freddy’s.
What cosplay are you planning next?
There’s nobody specific on my plate right now with marching band season being so busy, but I would love to make Springtrap from FNAF. I already have a plan set in my mind of how I would make it, and even what song I would enter a masquerade with him. (Hand Me My Shovel, I’m Going In! by Will Wood and the Tapeworms, if you were wondering.) I just, unfortunately, am short on time as a college student. My next closet cosplay is probably going to be Jedediah from Night at the Museum.
What’s one piece of advice for new cosplayers?
Don’t be intimidated by the experienced cosplayers, and especially don’t beat yourself up over how your first build looks. It’s like riding a bike. With patience, creativity, and determination, I believe that anyone can be a successful cosplayer. Also, do not put down the value of thrifting pieces to save money or buying your costume. It shouldn’t be diminished to a competition of who looks the most extravagant or lore-accurate; having fun is what cosplay is about! If you’re enjoying yourself, no matter what your cosplay looks like or costs, then you’re doing it right!
Where can people find you on social media?
My cosplay account is @agent.of.fulcrum on both Instagram and TikTok! (The handle’s a reference to my Mandalorian character, who wears Ahsoka Tano’s fulcrum symbol on her shoulder.)
Below is a gallery of some of our featured subject’s cosplays!
