UlasanAnime.com – This article delves into the considerations for North American anime conventions when inviting Japanese voice actors (seiyuu), drawing insights from fan surveys and industry data.
The author begins by referencing a translation from Anime Anime, acknowledging that such fan surveys, while potentially biased, generally reflect attendee interests accurately. Historically, forums were used to gauge these interests, but more recently, social media data and direct surveys have become the primary methods.
The piece highlights the value of these surveys in understanding current fan preferences and notes that sites like ANN still conduct annual surveys. The author also mentions their past practice of publishing personal lists of seiyuu requests based on their own analysis of public personas and suitability for convention panels.
For those interested in Japanese survey data, the author encourages exploring the provided link for other surveys, including those focusing on male seiyuu and music artists. A new chart is then introduced.
This tweet describes a chart that ranks seiyuu based on CD sales annually, specifically excluding character-based groups like Wake Up Girls! and Love Live!. The author describes this method as “quick and dirty” but effective in conveying its message.
The author then suggests that this data is also highly relevant for conventions looking to invite seiyuu. They propose that the information could be used to create a chart of worthwhile conventions based on the number of artists from the list who have appeared at them. Alternatively, it could indicate which conventions have stronger industry ties.
The author advises ignoring the color coding but points out that orange highlights indicate conventions with only one recorded appearance, noting that this is a generous estimation. The chart is primarily limited to US and Canadian events, and the author acknowledges potential mistakes due to the rushed compilation.
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It is stated that the majority of popular seiyuu do not typically travel to North America for events, for various reasons. However, some prominent figures do attend major conventions like Anime Expo (AX) and Anime Festival Asia Singapore (AFASG). The author anticipates that in ten years, more of these guest slots at North American cons will likely be filled by popular seiyuu.
