Why in the World Would You Do That?
As shocking as it may be, there are some folks that think dressing up as Star Wars characters is just plain silly...perhaps even sinful. *gasp* I have been asked often times, "Why in the world would you want to do that? Don't you have better things to do?"
Well, I suppose it depends upon your definition of better...
Today was the first Sunday of our Western Washington Fair, otherwise known as the Puyallup Fair. This is our third year at this large fair and it is tons of fun. In exchange for a donation to a local children's charity, the 501st and Rebel Legion agreed to arrive in costume to thrill the crowds. I always wonder at these events how many photos are actually taken - hundreds, easily. As I share some of the pics I snapped, I will try to enumerate why anyone would want to dress as a Star Wars character...
1. You get to know really cool people like my Jedi friends here. And who doesn't want more opportunities for friendships?
2. Doing something that raises money for children's charities is a noble thing to do, wouldn't you agree? Plus, you get to see the pure joy and excitement on children's faces as they see Stormtroopers, Jedi and even Darth Vader. Watching the children is one of the biggest thrills for me, personally.
3. Doing something well is always satisfying. Creating a movie-quality costume requires research, skill and perseverance. The reward is appreciation and the opportunity to inspire others to challenge themselves to stretch and accomplish their own aspirations.
4. It is just plain ole fun to dress up. No one is going to dispute me on that one, I'm sure!
5. The vast majority of adults love, or at least like, Star Wars, as well as any other well-told story about good vs. evil...especially when good wins out. It is enjoyable to have that connection with people that appreciate the saga. You get to have many conversations with complete strangers about Star Wars that leaves all parties feeling like they have made a new friend.
6. You get to troop in many different venues; many that you wouldn't have had the opportunity otherwise. I have trooped for a Disney Fan Convention, birthday parties, small town parades, televised parades, comic book stores, Lucasfilm concerts and promotions and science fiction conventions. Who wouldn't say that is exciting?
7. You have the opportunity to explore prop-making, which is an interesting hobby all on it's own. I truly enjoyed making my own lightsaber, comlinks, holocrons and more...even dressing a beanie baby as a Jedi.
8. Lastly, I love to troop because I spend a lot of time laughing, schmoozing, smiling, posing, robe swooping, more laughing, spotting, flanking, taking pictures and enjoying my time as a Jedi. Plus, I get to take some really great pics of some really interesting people...like these two guys with colorful head adornment. Now, you gotta say that you don't see that everyday!
And, don't tell anyone, but some Star Wars costumers costume and troop because it makes them feel like a rock star!
Well, I don't really feel like a rock star when I troop, but I do enjoy my time 'in the robes' and look forward to our two more Sundays this month at the Puyallup Fair.
May the Force be with You!
Well, I suppose it depends upon your definition of better...
Today was the first Sunday of our Western Washington Fair, otherwise known as the Puyallup Fair. This is our third year at this large fair and it is tons of fun. In exchange for a donation to a local children's charity, the 501st and Rebel Legion agreed to arrive in costume to thrill the crowds. I always wonder at these events how many photos are actually taken - hundreds, easily. As I share some of the pics I snapped, I will try to enumerate why anyone would want to dress as a Star Wars character...
'1. You get to know really cool people like my Jedi friends here. And who doesn't want more opportunities for friendships?
2. Doing something that raises money for children's charities is a noble thing to do, wouldn't you agree? Plus, you get to see the pure joy and excitement on children's faces as they see Stormtroopers, Jedi and even Darth Vader. Watching the children is one of the biggest thrills for me, personally.
3. Doing something well is always satisfying. Creating a movie-quality costume requires research, skill and perseverance. The reward is appreciation and the opportunity to inspire others to challenge themselves to stretch and accomplish their own aspirations.
4. It is just plain ole fun to dress up. No one is going to dispute me on that one, I'm sure!
5. The vast majority of adults love, or at least like, Star Wars, as well as any other well-told story about good vs. evil...especially when good wins out. It is enjoyable to have that connection with people that appreciate the saga. You get to have many conversations with complete strangers about Star Wars that leaves all parties feeling like they have made a new friend.
6. You get to troop in many different venues; many that you wouldn't have had the opportunity otherwise. I have trooped for a Disney Fan Convention, birthday parties, small town parades, televised parades, comic book stores, Lucasfilm concerts and promotions and science fiction conventions. Who wouldn't say that is exciting?
7. You have the opportunity to explore prop-making, which is an interesting hobby all on it's own. I truly enjoyed making my own lightsaber, comlinks, holocrons and more...even dressing a beanie baby as a Jedi.
8. Lastly, I love to troop because I spend a lot of time laughing, schmoozing, smiling, posing, robe swooping, more laughing, spotting, flanking, taking pictures and enjoying my time as a Jedi. Plus, I get to take some really great pics of some really interesting people...like these two guys with colorful head adornment. Now, you gotta say that you don't see that everyday!
And, don't tell anyone, but some Star Wars costumers costume and troop because it makes them feel like a rock star!
Well, I don't really feel like a rock star when I troop, but I do enjoy my time 'in the robes' and look forward to our two more Sundays this month at the Puyallup Fair.
May the Force be with You!
Comments
Anything worth doing, is worth doing well.
My 4 year old granddaughter said to me about something "NaiNai, it's only make believe". If she
can discern at 4 years, then shouldn't we adults be able to?
Keep on making people smile.