A Dazzling Start to the 2024 Mousequerade
Ready for fashion and fandom to collide? That’s exactly what happened when the 2024 Mousequerade D23 took over the Premiere Stage at the Anaheim Convention Center during The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. With a packed audience and electric energy, this cosplay competition celebrated creativity, storytelling, and serious Disney style.
The morning kicked off with DJ Rubin Ervin warming up the crowd, paving the way for host Nina West to make a grand entrance. Fresh off her Broadway Hairspray tour and appearance on RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars Season 9, Nina returned to host Mousequerade once again—this time in an Alice in Wonderland-inspired ensemble. With backup dancers by her side, she performed her original song “You Are the Dream,” setting the tone for an unforgettable show.
Star-Studded Judges Panel
After Nina’s performance, DJ Rubin introduced the panel of celebrity judges. Returning favorites included Emmy® nominee Yvette Nicole Brown, known for Disenchanted, Big Shot, and Alice’s Wonderland Bakery, and Ashley Eckstein, voice of Ahsoka Tano and founder of the Her Universe fashion brand.
New to the panel were Caitlin McHugh Stamos—model, designer, podcaster, and cosplayer—and four-time Oscar®-winning costume designer and Disney Legend Colleen Atwood, who brought decades of professional expertise to the judging table.
Happy Birthdays and a Magical Kickoff
Before the contest officially began, Ashley Eckstein led the audience in a joyful rendition of “Happy Birthday”. For both Nina West, celebrating that day, and Yvette Nicole Brown, who would be celebrating hers soon after. The moment was a perfect reminder of the community and joy that Mousequerade represents.
Nina then outlined the competition’s three categories. “Fantastic Worlds” featured dazzling looks from Disney, Pixar, Muppets, and Disney Parks. “Epic Adventures” highlighted designs inspired by Marvel, Lucasfilm, National Geographic, Hulu, and 20th Century Studios. “Cast of Characters” focused on group or duo cosplays from across the Disney universe. In addition to judge-selected category winners, fans could vote through the D23 app for an “Audience Choice” award.
“Fantastic Worlds” – Diva of EPCOT: Tangledfett
“Epic Adventures” – The Rumor, The Legend, The Mystery! Grand Duchess Anastasia: Maryna Matlock
“Cast of Characters” – Golden Afternoon: Cassie Wanda and Friends
“Audience Choice” – Disney’s Magic Beginning: Jessica Martin and Friend
