UlasanAnime.com – The convention season for this year is shaping up to be quite busy, with several notable events on the horizon. Here’s a rundown of what’s planned:
Animazement has concluded, and the focus now shifts to their charity auction. A significant amount of donated merchandise was collected for the event. Due to the auction running shorter than anticipated, a substantial number of items, likely over a dozen, are expected to be put up for sale on eBay to benefit charities. The funds raised are earmarked for tornado victims in Oklahoma and relief efforts in Tohoku. Among the items available are sketches and other unique pieces. The author has a particular interest in two autographed scripts from Chihayafuru Season 2, expressing a willingness to let others outbid them if necessary, given the worthy cause.
Anime Next is scheduled for June 7-9. The official schedule is now available. This year’s event notably lacks an iM@S panel, a departure from the previous year. Conversely, there will be an Aniplex panel. Another difference from last year is the absence of conflicting wedding commitments. While expectations for Sayo Yamamoto’s appearance are moderate, there’s a hope she might sign a copy of “Arakawa UB,” a series whose opening theme is highly appreciated. The possibility of attending Moon Stream at Anime Next instead of Anime Central (AX) is also being considered, especially since attending Vertical’s events is already planned, making this a manageable scheduling conflict.
The Origins Game Fair will take place from June 12-16. This event is mentioned primarily as a heads-up in case the author is unavailable for a week.
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Anime Expo is set for July 4-7. The author’s specific role at the event is still undecided, but there’s a strong likelihood of engaging in more press-related activities. The aim is to connect with fellow Twitter users and bloggers. There’s also a chance to attend a Megumi Han panel, which would be a first. Preparations for digging up interview questions are underway, as some of the guests are considered interesting subjects for interviews.
Otakon, scheduled for August 9-11, is anticipated to be one of the most impressive Otakon events to date, particularly regarding its guest lineup. The presence of Yoko Kanno is expected to draw a significant crowd of long-time fans. While Kanno won’t be performing at Camden Yards, her appearance itself is a major draw. The event is predicted to be a highly engaging, albeit potentially overwhelming, three-day period due to the extensive overlap of content.
These are the primary conventions planned for the year. There’s a possibility of attending New York Comic Con (NYCC), and a much more remote chance of attending AWA. The author expresses a strong desire to attend AWA this year but acknowledges the potential difficulties in justifying the time off work and the cost of travel.
The article concludes by posing a question about any other significant events happening.
