We’re a diverse team of creators united by a shared vision: to create something truly different. Our backgrounds span across a broad creative spectrum—from cosplayers and photographers to event planners and logistical coordinators—with each person bringing their unique expertise to our collaborative mission.

While parts of our team have collaborated for over half a decade on various projects, IRIS Interactive as we know it today was born in early 2025 at Pop Umai’s “Night at the Harbor” event. It was there that the Director, working alongside Pop Umai, approached @smoobibs.cos with an ambitious idea: merging cosplay with performance theater. Our first project was small yet successful called the LANTERN RITE COMMISSION with only 7 performers. Our second project was ambitious with over 15 performers across three different IPs called OPERATION: IRIS. With over 95% of participants completing the whole quest line we proved that the project’s success meant the concept had legs, and we’ve been growing steadily ever since.

But our growth wasn’t just about expanding—it was about reimagining what events could be. We’d all witnessed how the creative community was often locked out of meaningful experiences by high costs, exclusive networks, and profit-driven gatekeepers who prioritized revenue over genuine connection. Too many incredible artists, performers, and creators were sitting on the sidelines, not because they lacked talent or passion, but because the traditional event sphere had built walls instead of bridges. We knew there had to be a better way. Events shouldn’t be luxury experiences reserved for those who could afford premium tickets or had the right connections. They should be spaces where creativity flourishes, where communities gather, and where everyone—regardless of background or budget—can participate in something magical.

By mid-2025, we knew we wanted to take our vision further. We established IRIS Interactive as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a clear mission: to bring performing cosplay and creative education to the Southern California community in an accessible manner. Our name draws from a fictional resource we created for one of our original event stories as a reminder that imagination and storytelling are at the heart of everything we do.

“WHERE THE WIND BLOOMS” marked our debut as IRIS Interactive, and we’re excited to share this journey with you. One where creativity belongs to everyone.