Costumes, talent, and creativity

Explore a diverse range of costumes and accessories at Joshua Jaralson Linang’s rental collection in Kuching. From fairytales to superheroes, and seasonal themes like Halloween and Christmas, discover outfits for every occasion.

Glamour Galore

If you are looking for costumes to rent, the good news is that there is someone locally who specialises in all kinds of costumes.

This amazing startup idea came from Joshua Jaralson Linang, an Iban originally from Kuching, who has 27 years of experience as a professional dancer and stage choreographer in the performing industry in Malaysia.

Under his business company, Showgate Entertainment, based in Kuala Lumpur since 2008, Joshua, together with his dancers and models, has provided entertainment for all kinds of events, including corporate dinners, beauty pageants, product launches, and even shows in other ASEAN regions.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit him hard, Joshua decided to return to Kuching with a container of costumes and a determination to refresh his ambition when the crisis ended.

According to him, the costume rental business is part of a continuously flourishing industry that can present opportunities for growth. The reason is simple: why would anyone want to buy an expensive costume just to wear once? It is cheaper to rent one.

We asked Joshua about the niche he wants to serve, his reply was, “Hopefully, I can get the support from production houses, comic festivals, or theatre groups looking for props for performances, music bands, educational institutes, churches, or individuals who are looking to rent costumes and accessories on a short-term basis.”

On the other hand, he is also scouting for local talents for performances.

“I am searching for versatile dancers for both modern and cultural performances, as well as talented performers of all genders for modelling and other talent acts for my upcoming and future events in Kuching,” said Joshua, adding that interested individuals can email their profile and portfolio to [email protected].

Spotted at a local dance competition in Kuching at age 18, where he won the Michael Jackson dance and impersonation act, he was immediately hired to teach dancing and to assist in dance and beauty pageant choreography for yours truly, who was then a fashion and pageant choreographer for Miss Cheongsam Sarawak, Miss Sarawak Malaysia World, and other beauty pageants.

In a few years, his passion for dance and performances grew, and his talent for creating costumes was discovered and nurtured.

Joshua then relocated to Kuala Lumpur to work for Maggie Loo, a veteran beauty queen at the peak of her career in the fashion and modelling industry. With her, he learned a lot and travelled around for performances.

Eventually, Joshua started his own business in show business, teaching many to dance and catwalk. Now, at his new studio in Kuching, he has a space within his operation for rent and to conduct classes for potential talents.

A good look at his rental collection shows outfits for various themes, including fairy look, angels, anime, celebration, and seasonal like Halloween, Christmas, Renaissance, and Victorian. Additionally, there are costumes from around the world, superheroes, uniforms, and even jackets for emcees and graduates.

“I carry all kinds of costumes and accessories such as wigs, hats, wings, masks, and even costume boots at a reasonable price. It will only be more expensive if you want it customised,” said Joshua, who is also a creative costume designer and seamster.

For more information, check out this place right above Hon Hin Café at 174, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman/Abell Road, Kuching.