UlasanAnime.com – The Anime Next 2015 convention, held in my local area, was attended primarily to represent Elisa. This year’s event, while generally considered decent, unfortunately experienced several organizational missteps.
The most significant issue was the schedule, which was released less than a week before the convention and contained inaccuracies. Even the digital version, accessed via Guidebook, was at times incorrect when compared to the actual event proceedings. The printed schedule also had its own set of discrepancies, and these errors did not even align between the two formats. This created a frustrating situation, requiring attendees to actively report errors to Panel Operations for correction.
These scheduling errors extended to at least two major events, including industry and guest of honor panels, which were placed at the wrong times or locations. Some of these errors were not rectified until mere hours before the events were scheduled to begin.
A recurring problem for the convention has been outgrowing its venue. This year, the limited space contributed to various inconveniences. However, the organizers have announced a relocation to Atlantic City for the following year, which may alleviate these spatial issues.
The move to Atlantic City means the convention will no longer be in my immediate vicinity, reducing personal logistical concerns for next year. This year, my participation technically covered five events: an Elisa Q&A session, Trigger autographs on Saturday, an Elisa concert, and a post-concert autograph and photo session. Photos from Elisa’s events, including a group shot, are available on Facebook. Her performance featured her new song from “Expelled from Paradise,” but otherwise mirrored her Sakuracon setlist.
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Notably, Elisa appeared more personable this year, engaging deeply with audience questions, earning her considerable praise.
The Trigger guests, Wakabayashi and Koyama, were as expected, embodying a friendly “bro” demeanor, while Sushio was likened to a younger sibling. Their presence contributed to a fun and engaging experience, consistent with past interactions.
Several planned activities were unfortunately sidelined due to real-life commitments, making the $70 badge fee feel less worthwhile.
Beyond the convention events, a backyard grilling gathering was held, fostering a relaxed atmosphere for attendees to connect. The event was enjoyable, and the hope is to replicate it, though the move to Atlantic City makes this unlikely. This marks another anime convention where significant social engagement occurred, facilitated by a trip to Costco and assistance from friends. The advantage of a familiar local environment was clearly beneficial.
PS. No food pictures were taken as it felt unusual to photograph personal dining spaces. A highlight of the weekend was visiting “Stuff Yer Face,” a popular college hangout spot in New Brunswick, which is visited infrequently. The culinary journey concluded with a “whole #5” from Tastee’s, alongside substantial amounts of Chinese food. Notably, Tastee’s is also where one can find President Obama’s autograph. The advice is to save “Fat Sandwiches” for less formal convention Q&A panels and opt for a classic, authentic Jersey hoagie instead.
