Toronto Comicon attendees share how cosplay brings meaning to their lives

Torontonian Edward Healy says it was 13 years ago that a small mob of Stormtroopers changed his life for the better.

Healy, who was attending Toronto Comicon at the time, says a conversation with someone cosplaying as one of the Star Wars characters left him with a year-round passion, the opportunity to give back to his community and the chance to meet one of his closest friends.

"That was a mind-blowing experience," said Healy. "I didn't realize that you could actually make these things."

Healy is now a member of the 501st Canadian Garrison, a group that attends Comicon every year, as well as other events, cosplaying as "the bad guys doing good" from the Star Wars franchise.

This year's Toronto Comicon takes place March 15 to 17 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre with 35,000 lovers of sci-fi, horror, anime, comics and gaming expected to attend. The event is a place to find comic books, collectibles and meet artists and writers. For many, it's a chance to find community by dressing up as your favourite character.

Edward Healy (third from the left) dressed as a Tusken Raider, regularly participates in charity events after connecting with a group at Toronto Comicon. (Submitted by Edward Healy)

Healy says the 501st have been working on their costumes together, 3D-printing, trading items and sharing tips.

He says the group is very diverse and made him feel welcome.

"I think what would surprise people is underneath that armour, there might be a woman, there might be a man, there might be a fireman, there might be a doctor, there might be a lawyer… it could be anybody," he said.

The group is also raising funds for the Make-a-Wish Foundation, a favourite of these "bad guys doing good."

Toronto Comicon a family affair 

But there's competition for the Stormtroopers and Tuskens that Healy's side represents.

The Rebel Legion is also attending this year's convention. They'll be dressed as the "good guys," representing characters like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia and Rey, says member Stephanie Middleton.

Philip Middleton poses for a photo at a previous event. (Submitted by Philip Middleton)

Comicon's a family affair for her Pickering family. Her brother, Philip Middleton, is also a member of the Rebel Legion and attending this weekend.

"We definitely share an intense bond," said Philip. "And I think it's only just enhanced by all of this."

When the pair first started attending they wore store-bought costumes, Middleton said, but with help and encouragement from the group, they now make elaborate costumes.

"The level of detail and skill, especially in our group, is insane," she said, adding that the group has been so supportive of each other for years.

"We like to think of the group as an extended family," said Philip. "It's so uplifting, not only for the people we interact with, but also for each other."

He says it's an honour to represent the characters, but also to contribute to charitable causes all year, which the siblings say is one of the most meaningful aspects.

Stephanie Middleton dressed as Rey from Star Wars and posing for a photo with a small fan. (Submitted by Philip Middleton)

The pair regularly participate in events at SickKids Hospital, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital and other locations, and will be uniting with the 501st to raise money for Make-A-Wish at this year's Comicon — even if the Comicon reunion comes with some playful taunting.

Building community a big part of Comicon

While costumes are certainly encouraged at Toronto Comicon, the event welcomes fans no matter what they feel ready to don this weekend, says Andrew Moyes, the VP of FAN EXPO HQ.

Star Wars is just one fandom expected to make a strong showing.

A wide view of the 2023 Toronto Comicon at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. (Michael Wilson/CBC)

"What makes FAN EXPO events unique is that we really lean into every genre," said Moyes. "People can come and not only explore the fandom that they know and love but get exposure to other fandoms."

He says it's common to run into people dragged along by family or friends who find something for them, whether it's a drawing lesson, meeting a celebrity or a new social group.

"So many times, I bumped into people that say, 'Oh, my goodness, I wasn't quite sure. But I'm so glad I came. There's something here for me,'" he said.

He says ultimately, these events are about community, which might mean joining one you didn't expect.