Identity play among live action role players: Constructing, performing, and managing fantasy identities

Live action role playing is a unique type of leisure activity in which participants construct a fantasy identity. In this study, I utilize ethnographic methods to examine how NERO live action role players construct, perform, and manage fantasy game identities. Participants develop these identities through several processes of identity work that structure the creative performance of the identity. The players utilize identity typifications, construct characters, and manage costuming and appearance to create fantasy identities situated in a role play environment. This role play environment is also one of multiple realities with borders that must be symbolically managed by participants so as to separate the fantasy frame from that of the everyday frame. Players engage in various aspects of border work and border blending while navigating the world between these frames.