UlasanAnime.com – The third day of Anime North mirrored the second in many ways, though with a more relaxed atmosphere and a notable absence of the usual celebratory brunch. Many of the Japanese Producers (Ps) returned to their hotels shortly after the closing ceremony concluded at 7 PM, a later end time than typically observed for weekend conventions. The author and others opted for a more affordable and equally satisfying dinner at a nearby Tex-Mex restaurant. The dining arrangements proved somewhat dynamic, initially planned for a smaller group of local Ps and the HPT crew, the party size swelled to 26 when some Japanese Ps joined, eventually settling at 16. Generous tips were provided.
During Saturday’s off-kai gathering at a local steakhouse chain, a session of RE@DY took place. The group secured a private corner of the establishment, and several Japanese Ps actively participated.
After spending time with newly formed friendships, the experience became quite poignant. By the third day, a strong bond had formed with some Japanese Producers, making the farewell at the parking lot a difficult one. Upon returning to the hotel, the group engaged in more calls and lightstick waving, even hacking the hotel TV to watch the 8th live performance, recalling the memorable “AI LIKE HAMBURGER” routine.
This extended engagement contributed to Anime North feeling like a four-day event, despite its official three-day duration. On Monday, a leisurely morning was spent exploring Niagara Falls, described as the “largest watering hole on earth.”
The author reflects on the experience of connecting with individuals for whom this was their first anime convention. These attendees had traveled great distances, drawn by the allure of Harami and the attractions of Toronto and Canada. The interactions with the HPT guys were familiar, akin to their usual online conversations. However, the connections made with other Japanese Ps were more emotionally resonant, particularly with a Japanese P visiting from Ireland during his study abroad. The group also met Filipino and Chinese Ps from Canada, and a Korean P from Washington State. New Jersey was well-represented from the US, and a Thai P studying in the States made a convenient trip to attend.
The overarching objective, as perceived by the author, was to have a good time, to welcome the Ps, and to express their admiration for IM@S and Yumi Hara. While not explicitly stated by those who organized the events and themed days, this sentiment was understood. For some, including the author, it was also an opportunity to enjoy the traditional aspects of an anime convention. The author expressed a wish to have spent more time with Mai Goto, attended the Rose Noire concert, and taken more cosplay photos, acknowledging that these desires were secondary to the overall adventure.
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The narrative then shifts to a humorous anecdote about ordering an “American-sized” steak, highlighting an “American-sized” appetite. The Japanese Ps in attendance were either dedicated Harami Cluster fans, focusing solely on Takane or Harami, or “DD” (dare de mo dai suki – likes anyone) like many local attendees. This provided a perspective on the challenges faced by some fans. A notable moment involved a “cool bro” engaging in lewd posting while en route back to Japan on the same flight as Harami, a juxtaposition that perfectly encapsulated the behavior of many “2.5D” event chasers. The author concluded this thought by encouraging responsible fandom if Harami is a significant draw.
Yumi Hara was indeed the central figure that brought everyone together. Within the broader context of the Idolm@ster franchise, she represents one of many appealing elements. Personally, even before meeting her and attending Anime North, she was considered the author’s top seiyuu from IM@S 765Pro All Stars. Her presence at the convention further solidified this position, though the author admits to being a DD, which implies a broader appreciation.
The author delves into the concept of “DD nonsense,” finding it an amusing realization. The Harami Cluster, by definition, consists of Harami fans who traveled great distances to experience a new culture and see her in a way not possible at home. However, the group also included individuals like the author, and a Minzoku who is a Makoto P, whose Twitter suggests Harami is their second favorite. This mix of fans reinforces a statement made by Masunari about Makoto Ps being “yakkai” (troublesome).
The official offkai involved approximately 35 attendees, occupying a long table, three booths, and an additional table for gifts donated by Japanese Ps. The author admits to forgetting to bring a gift but contributed to a last-minute Baskin Robbins cake for Ami & Mami. The organizers facilitated mingling between Japanese and non-Japanese Ps with translation support, and the author felt it was largely successful. The author sat with fellow blogger Moy, a local P, and three Japanese Ps. One of these Ps was a high-level DD who attended back-to-back events and shared the same phone wallpaper as Moy, featuring Koroazu with a hat. Another Japanese P was proficient in English and served as a translator.
As an icebreaker, although seemingly unnecessary, the group sang “Happy Birthday” and performed calls for READY in the restaurant. This was described as an “crazy” act by both American and Japanese standards, with some Japanese Ps going all out while others watched with nervousness or uncertain embarrassment. Despite this, it was considered a good time, with a reminder to “TIP TIP TIP.”
The author suggests that further details about these experiences are best shared in person, concluding that everyone had a good time.
Regarding the guest of honor, Yumi Hara, she is described as very personable, with an approachable demeanor akin to an Osaka-style Mamiko Noto. Her down-to-earth nature and good-natured straightforwardness led to humorous discussions, including her remarks about the “boobiness” of her voice. The author’s overall experience with Harami at Anime North confirmed her consistent persona seen in home videos, at SSA live events, and at the convention. Her physique is noted as “weapon-grade,” but as a person, she is considered “pretty all right” with a “cute” quality that is not overwhelming.
The author mentions writing up some Q&A sessions, which will be posted later.
In terms of merchandise, the author spent only about 20 minutes in the dealer’s room while exiting the queue for Harami’s autograph session on Saturday. This decision is not regretted, as time was limited. Traveling by car to and from the convention involved dealing with traffic, and with 3-hour dinners on two of the three nights, finding additional time was difficult. In retrospect, the author is unsure if there was even enough time to explore the dealer’s room due to the packed schedule, where more guest events meant less time for other programming.
Anime North is characterized as an “everything” convention, with the main hall hosting the majority of events. The International Plaza hotel across the road featured domestic events like panels and screenings, while the Sharaton, located further down the road, hosted video games and other activities. Transportation between these three locations was available via bus, though they were also within walking distance.
The convention’s scale has significantly increased since 2006, with attendance this year nearing 30,000, an increase of 10,000-15,000 people.
The only merchandise acquired this year consisted of gifts from other Ps and an “ancient N+” single from Mai Goto. The author also received Harami bromides, expressing gratitude to the anonymous donors. Thanks to a liberal autograph policy, the author obtained two “2-shots” with Harami, planning to use them on Facebook. In addition to personal autographs, a Yumi autograph was secured for a friend enjoying his time in Raleigh.
Looking ahead, next year’s Anime North is anticipated to be a “DD” event, with Animazement also showing promise. The author speculates that Anime North will likely feature another IM@S seiyuu, expressing a slightly overwhelmed sentiment (“Glup”).
Finally, a heartfelt thank you is extended to all the Ps and non-Ps who contributed to the weekend’s success. This includes Mai Goto and Yumi Hara for their work in beloved shows, the staff and attendees of Anime North for creating a “chill” and IM@s-heavy environment (with special thanks to Rin-san for assistance), and all the producers and non-producers who made the weekend memorable. The author acknowledges that some of these individuals are listed on Twitter, while others are not, but assures them they are all “in my heart” and wishes them luck escaping “otaku hell,” stating they were half the reason for attending Anime North.
