Pre-registration is open for 2013, when our convention will be 4-6 January 2013 at the same hotel.

We are updating our website to bring you the most current information as we move closer to our 8th year.  We have plenty of exciting things happening , so take a look around!

Click here to load our mobile schedule app. Search for ‘Anime Los Angeles’ in guides.

Big Thanks to Pacific Media Expo for donating prize packs to Anime Los Angeles.

The Host Club room is where various local fan groups who want to do
“Host Club” or “Maid Cafe” events can perform during the course of the
convention. (Interested groups for next year should write to
liveprog2013@animelosangeles.org.) This year the Host Club Room has
moved to the 18th floor, to “Executive II.”

Schedule of events:

Friday
10:00 am – Noon
Happy Sweet Tea Maid/Butler For You (Sunny Morning Dining)

6:00 pm – 8:00 PM
Happy Sweet Tea Maid/Butler For You (Moonlight Tea Dining)

- – -
Saturday
10:00 am – Noon
Happy Sweet Tea Maid/Butler For You (Sunny Morning Dining)

1:00 pm – 3:00 PM
AniMaid Café presents the AniHost Game Club!

6:00 pm – 8:00 PM
Happy Sweet Tea Maid/Butler For You (Moonlight Tea Dining)

11:00 pm – 3:00 AM
Taco Party

- – -
Sunday
1:00 pm – 4:00 PM
Like a Maid Café… But Cooler! With lasers! (Game show)

[PLEASE NOTE: ALL schedule and program information is subject to change at any time.]

Sunday

Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu

Ever wanted to be a ninja?  The Bujinkan includes one of the oldest historically documented Ninjutsu schools – “ryūha” that have been passed down through generations of martial artists since its origin on Iga Mountain.  We will be demonstrating open hand and weapons techniques, then opening up the mat for you to learn.  Instructor Adrian, a 12th degree black belt in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu, has been studying since 1988 and teaching since 1999.  [Adrian Kaehler, Lyssa Kaehler]

Super Shonen Sunday!

Shonen battle manga is just not all about fighting.  Each one gives their own unique life lesson that if one master can truly become a master in their own mind.  Join Panda Cubed as we take a look at the best Shonen manga’s and reveal some of their hidden lessons. [Joe Sakamoto, Alyssa Ollive]

Songwriting Workshop with Raj Ramayya

Have you ever wanted to write your own songs, but don’t know where to start? Do you want to know what it takes to succeed writing songs for big name artists and brands on an international level? Composer Raj Ramayya shares his own tricks of the trade to help you find your inner songwriter and get started on creating your own original material. [Raj Ramayya]

Anime Jeopardy

This. Is. Anime Jeopardy! Test your knowledge of anime, manga, and video games in this trivia game based on the popular television game show. Don’t forget to phrase your answer in the form of a question! [Megan Schreiber, Shannon Deonier, D.J. Halladay]

The Anime Fanzine in America: Death and Rebirth

Join current and former publishers as they look back over the past 30 years of the anime fanzine in America. [Dave Merrill, Sean O'Mara, Matt Schley, Alec Orrock, Tim Eldred]

Advanced Cosplay: Sewing, Beyond the Basics

Commercial patterns almost never fit anyone well. Learn how to fix this, or even make your own pattern pieces for things you can’t find anywhere! This panel will also cover things like working with the odd fabrics that costumes often require, accessories for your sewing machine that can save you lots of time, effort and frustration, and an actual demonstration of techniques for fitting a practice garment (“mockup”). [Sionna Neidengard, Caistarrin T. Mystical]

Moon Prism Pop-tarts

A history of Sailor Moon in North America. For many anime fans who were 90s children, they are no stranger to Sailor Moon. Los Angelinos tuned to UPN 13 at 7:30AM to watch the adventures of the Sailor Scouts. This panel covers the history of Sailor Moon’s domestication and adaptation to North America. This also includes controversial fan movements such as Save Our Sailors. Bring in your Bandai adventure dolls as we figure out the origins of the moon cycle. [Jared Griego, Victoria Erica]

Shotokan Karate Workshop

The Shotokan Karate Workshop attempts to teach the
fundamental tenets of traditional Shotokan Karate including basic techniques of punches, kicks, blocks, etc. The workshop is geared for untrained students but students with previous training are more than welcome to show up. Students should come in loose fitting attire and ready for a workout! This is a noncontact but active workshop. [Keith Kato, Kenn Bates, Rochelle Uhlenkott]

Angel Hearts presents “the iDOLM@STER”

Angel Hearts is a pop-idol cosplay group that has been performing at conventions and events since 2003. Come watch a live cosplay performance from “the iDOLM@STER,” as well as learn about the game, the new anime, and idol culture!

The Origin of Anime Fandom

If you ever stopped and wondered how all this got off the ground, find out here! Step back into the 1970s and learn how anime fandom actually got started in Japan; what they watched, what they did, and why we have them to thank for everything we enjoy today! [Tim Eldred]

Gundam & Resin model building workshop

Gundam & Resin model building workshop [Clement Eng]

Masquerade Post-Mortem

As the con winds down, we stop for a moment to look back at the previous night’s main event. During this time, you can retrieve any documentation or music you submitted, pick up extra copies of award certificates, give feedback to make the next year better, and maybe even receive feedback from some of the judges. Contestants and audience members alike are invited; your suggestions help us make the show bigger and better!

V3 Cosplay Syndicate presents, “Bridging the gap” – Fandoms

“Bridging the gap” is part of V3′s panel series , about helping with the realization that all fandoms, brings something special to the table and no two series’s are exactly the same but what may not be known is at their core many key elements continually appear in all of the genre and with this truth in mind there is something for everyone in each genre be it; a brave captain traveling through space into the unknown, a child having to find the courage to save the world and in turn become a adult and great leader, an unlikely hero battling their way through the undead, the star crossed lovers and many more epic tales that we all love. [Paige Willey]

Anime Radio Theater

Come see Kyle Hebert and our cast of voice actors perform an improvisational Radio Show. [Kyle Hebert, Chris Cason, Jon Allen, Julie Rei Goldstein, Lauren Landa, Danielle McRae, Jessica Straus, Kaiji Tang, Stephen Weese, Cristina Vee, Tadao Tomomatsu]

Geeks with Cats

A panel and discussion about being a costumer, eccentric hobbyist, or general geek and living with cats. Come share stories, ask for advice, and enjoy light-hearted conversation. Crazy cat ladies and cat daddies encouraged. [Caistarrin T. Mystical]

What the heck is Touhou?

You’ve seen it, you heard it, you watched it on Youtube, Pixiv, NicoNicoDouga, and conventions like Comiket. Why is it the #1 most popular fan franchises in internet history? [Russell Chou, Derek Chou]

Para Para and Idolm@ster Workshop

[Ohtori Kagura, Katrina Leonoudakis]

Like a maid café……. But cooler! With lasers!

Like game shows? and winning? Well do we have the event for you! Welcome to “Like a maid café……. But cooler! With lasers!” Were like a maid café but cooler with lasers. (go figure right?) Come join our lax and entertaining game show café where you’ll surely have a chair to sit in and someone to talk to. In addition to that sweet chair you can also participate in the game show portion of the event. Everyone will have the chance to compete for some super secret prizes in various card, trivia, and puzzle type games. If this sounds like something you’d go to then shimmy on down and bring your friends because this game show café is totally more fun, organized and interactive than the one I use to work at!

The Destruction of Tokyo

There is one element that is absolutely essential for any science fiction story created in Japan: the Destruction of Tokyo! From Godzilla to Akira to Evangelion, no Japanese genre work is complete without Tokyo being reduced to rubble. This panel will examine these images and ask the question: Why do the Japanese love to destroy their capital city? [Jake Tarbox]

Convention Feedback

[Chaz Boston Baden]

RE: Video Game Musicals

Random Encounters is a geeky YouTube team that writes and performs musical numbers based off video games.  Come see your favorite games as show tunes that Sega deemed “Fantastic,” Namco called “Awesome,” and Electronic Arts claimed “blew them away.” [Andrew Pinkerton, Peter Srinivasan, Casey Dwyer, Lora Rivera]

William Draven Presents: Magic Macabre

Ladies and Gentlemen, Otaku of all ages! Grab your pens and mark the date on your calendars, because this year at Anime LA internationally famed magician William Draven, (TV’s Masters of Illusion) will be taking the stage by force to bring you one of the most jaw dropping exhibits of mental, and physical mystery ever seen at an anime convention! Fans worldwide have enjoyed Williams sleight of hand and marveled at his ability to control his own bodies tolerance to pain.  Whether he’s lying on a bed of razor sharp nails, driving ten inch spikes into his skull, speaking to the dead, or escaping from strait jackets in record speeds Magic Macabre is one show you won’t want to miss! [William Draven]

Enbukan Battojutsu

Authentic Samurai sword skills demonstration!  Battojutsu schools represent one class of traditional sword fighting schools in Japan. Unlike “Iaidō”, Battojutsu focuses on the application of it’s techniques in combat situations – and as such is very rare today even in Japan.  According to the essence of Budo’s teaching, before the enemy attacks you attack your enemy with calm, quick and precise motion.  Shihan instructor Adrian is a personal student of Soke Machida Kenshinsai in Japan and is pleased to share this unusual martial art with you. [Adrian Kaehler, Lyssa Kaehler]

Closing Ceremonies

Join our chairman, Chaz Boston Baden, guests of honor {GOHs} and toastmaster Tadao Tomomatsu as we bid fairwell to Animé Los Angeles 8 and give you a few tidbits about our 2013 convention. [Chaz Boston Baden, Tadao Tomomatsu, Chris Cason, Stan Sakai, Dave Merrill]

Regency Dance

Come in costume or come as you are. If you don’t know how to dance, we’ll teach you. Its fun and the dances are easy to learn. Dance master: John Hertz.

[PLEASE NOTE: ALL schedule and program information is subject to change at any time.]

Saturday

GoH Spotlight – Stan Sakai

[Stan Sakai]

The Anime Con Journalist

A professional development panel for aspiring anime bloggers who wish to observe and report on anime conventions and related events. This panel educates and informs bloggers the ethics of the press and how to get that hot button interview. The panel is run by Scarlet Rhapsody, one of the leading anime conventions reporting websites.  [Victoria Erica (Scarlet Rhapsody), Jared Griego (Ctrl Alt Kill)]

Oriental Fusion Handcraft Workshop

The Oriental Fusion Handcraft workshop is happy to be part of Anime Los Angeles 8 for its 4th occasion!  Listening to all the requests of the guests from previous years, the OFH would like to invite everyone to come join us in having a richer and deeper experience with recycling craft. The OFH expresses its inspiration from traditional Japanese craft. This year, the OFH will be offering private group classes where you can create a more intricate piece of work similar to what was on display during our exhibition in the past.  Workshop leaders will be with you every step of the way so that you can create and release your inner creativity.  [Rome Sotelo, Madoka Obara, Toshiro Obara]

*Registration is required for this workshop, so please sign up on the website as soon as possible. Seating is limited. (You may check if there are available slots open during the day of the event; however it’s best to sign up beforehand since it’s likely to fill up quickly)

Material costs: $3 donation at the workshop (per each craft; Cash Only, No Credit or Checks Accepted)

Guests may attend as many sessions as they want to make as many crafts as desired. (Registration required; One Craft per session)

Register for Workshop

1.                    Click Email Address Below

2.                    Include your Name & Session #

3.                    Verify on Website for Placement & Availability

*Registration may take up to 48 hours to be updated.  If you cannot see your name after 48 hours, please contact us again.

Saturday, January 7th

Session 1:  10:00am – 10:40am

Session 2:  11:00am – 11:40am

Session 3:  12:00pm – 12:40pm

Email: orientalfusionhandcraft@gmail.com

Website: www.orientalfusionhandcraft.com

Weapons of Kung Fu

Most styles of Chinese martial arts use a variety of Kung Fu weapons. There are 18 main categories consisting of saber, spear, sword, halberd, axe, battle axe, hook, fork, whip, mace, hammer, talon, trident-halberd, cudgel, long-handled spear, short cudgel, stick and meteor hammer. Different variations within each category make up the hundreds of weapons used in Chinese martial arts.

The grace and beauty displayed in weapons routines have been very popular among the performing arts. Many weapons are displayed in the Beijing Opera, in movies and in the successful Shaolin Wu Shu live stage tours around the world.

Chinese martial arts weapons training offers many advantages that contribute to the learning of kung fu and self defense, in particular defense against a weapon. Students learn conditioning the body as well as coordination and strategy drills about the range, timing and distance needed in order to be able to defend effectively and safely against a weapon attack.

This makes the student more efficient at defending themselves in the street or at home while keeping at a safer distance.

Chinese weapons for. Weapons training is generally carried out after the student is proficient in the basics, forms and applications training. The basic theory for weapons training is to consider the weapon as an extension of the body. It has the same requirements for footwork and body coordination as the basics.The process of weapon training proceeds with forms, forms with partners and then applications. Most systems have training methods for each of the Eighteen Arms of Wushu   in addition to specialized instruments specific to the system. [Sigung Billy R Smith Shaolin White Dragon Kung Fu]

Happy Sweet Tea Maid/Butler for you (Sunny Morning Dinning)

Welcome home master and mistress ! Come and dine with us sweet tea maids & butler. At our first ever happy sweet tea maid/butler for you cafe at Anime LA. We will be play fun games. There will also be dance and singing. -We will be surviving food for minimums donation(Only cash No credit card)

Masquerade Contestant Meeting

This meeting is mandatory for all Masquerade contestants. You’ll meet the Masquerade staff and judges, ¬find out to whom you need to listen and to whom you can go for help, and get important information about how the show will run. Any entries not present at the meeting will be dropped from the competition! Please, this meeting is for contestants only.

Voice Acting Tricks of the Trade

Join some of our guests as they discuss their experiences in the business. [Chris Cason, Kyle Hebert, Jessica Straus, Cristina Vee, Kaiji Tang, Jon Allen, Derek Stephen Prince]

The Rise and Fall of the OVA

The editors of ColonyDrop.com present a brief history of the Original Animation Video from 1983 to the present. We’ll trace the origins of the OAV (or OVA) from its beginnings in early fandom, to its decline in the early 2000s and its revival in the last few years. [Sean O'Mara, Matt Schley]

Self-Defense for the Otaku

Tired of defending yourself against friends and relatives who dis you with questions like, “Why do you waste your time on that junk?” Come join this panel, learn how explain manga and anime as high art, and quiet your critics up for good! We will examine otaku culture, including the value and merit of anime, manga and pop culture in comparison to other entertainment and hobby subcultures in America. This panel will give you the tools, concepts and arguments you need to inspire awe in your listeners, silence in your detractors and pride in yourself as an otaku. [Jake Tarbox]

Touhou Dance Workshop

The Touhou Dance Workshop has currently confirmed Cirno’s Perfect Arithmetic Class as the song we will be teaching, yet if there’s anyone with any other requests for a second song, we could surely do it. [Ohtori Kagura, Astra]

World of Warcraft: The Players and the Game

Pandaren will soon invade Azeroth! Get your Kung Fu on and learn the ways of the Monk! Join Kazrakon (Jarod), Squiddy (Mikey), Tygramore (Jordan), Celanna (Sandahl) and other obsessed players of World of Warcraft for year three of their insight and experience in the open discussion of the highly popular MMORPG. They’ll discuss gameplay, strategies, PvP, helpful tips and, of course, the next Expansion:  Mists of Pandaria. You’ll hear their personal stories of hilarity and adventure in the world of Azeroth and be able to share some of your own! This time there will be three times the discussion, three times the experience, and three times the loot! Don’t miss out on this raid. No minimum item level required. PST for invite. [Jarod Nandin (Moderator), Sandahl von Sydow, Jordan Brown, Tony Lavoie (Guarding the door)]

So You Want to Sew Your First Cosplay?

Want to learn how to sew your own cosplay but don’t know where to start? Not sure what sewing machine to buy? Which fabric is right for your character? Don’t know what a pattern is? Well Ginger Aka GNB Cosplay is here to help! In this panel you will learn where to start when picking your  fabrics, how to manipulate existing patterns into your cosplay, and finishing tips & tricks to make your costume look complete and professionally made! Bring a note pad because you will definitely want to take notes! There will be a Q&A at the end, so bring photos of your upcoming cosplay plans!! Ginger has been running her growing Cosplay Commission business since summer of 2007! Her costumes have been featured in Cosmode, LA Weekly, the Cosplay in America Photo book, the CSUN Newspaper, and numerous geek-related sites online! She has created 60+ costumes for herself and others, as well as making custom cosplay patterns for the cosplay community!  [Ginger Burton (GNB Cosplay)]

Scavenger Hunt

Have you noticed all kinds of random things around the convention? If not, would you like to? Then why not make a game of it? Join us for the Scavenger Hunt! Compete against others in a race to find the most items on the list before time runs out. Keep your eyes peeled, because you never know what you may find, or where you may find it. Prizes go to the winning teams, so do your best to get it all. Besides, it gives you a perfectly valid reason to ask random questions of complete strangers! What better way to make some new friends?

The Blue Exorcist Podcast

The Blue Exorcast fandubs the manga and covers all news about Blue Exorcist manga, anime, merchandise, and events alike. We aim to bring together the fans for this series and provide an inside scoop from the Voice Actors and Artists. At this panel we will be sharing a brief part of our podcast episodes and displaying our short animation opening. After that we will take Q&A, any and all questions are welcome as long as they are related to Blue Exorcist. We will be giving away small prizes for those who cosplay from Blue Exorcist at our panel, also we will be holding two small games. The 1st is a trivia game of both the manga and anime. The 2nd game will be a surprise. Everyone who participates in the games will receive a small prize, and the winners will be given rare Blue Exorcist Merchandise. [Nicole Schroeder, Kaitlyn Schroeder, Ashley Uribe, and Kailyn Nakakihara, Joshua Rogers, Dorie Weaver]

How Technology has changed the Anime Industry

Discussion about the various ways technology has impacted the anime industry over the decades. [Dave Merrill, Jake Tarbox, Justin Sevakis, Criag Miller]

Kunoichi Ninja Skills

Learn how to defend yourself and look good doing it!  A demonstration and skills class of Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu techniques, this Japanese martial art emphasizes balance and control over strength.  This class will focus on useful ways of defeating opponents who are larger and/or more powerful than you – we will be focusing on self-defense for women, but these techniques are generally useful for men and women of all ages.  The instructors, Adrian and Lyssa, have a combined 32 years of martial arts experience.  [Adrian Kaehler, Lyssa Kaehler]

AniMaid Café presents the AniHost Game Club!

For their 3rd year: AniMaid Café presents the AniHost Game Club! Spend an hour with the 100%  delicious men from the world famous AniMaid Café Host Club playing games like Jenga, Hungry Hippos, Don’t Break the Ice, and many more! Their attentive company is guaranteed for every Ojo-sama & Hime sama! But don’t worry dear Gentlemen, the famous AniMaids will also be in attendance, ready to serve their Goshujin-sama with all their moe moe love- in ties!

Cosplay Posing: How to Look Excellent in Your Photos and Everyone Else’s

Want to bring your cosplay to life? It’s amazing what simple things can make it look like you just stepped off the screen! Join the cosplay group LimitlessEdge as we guide you through the ins and outs of posing for photos, using techniques from fine art and filmmaking to improve your poses! With something for every skill level, this panel will cover topics like character, composition, and silhouette. Cosplayers and photographers alike are welcome to come for instruction, demos, workshops, and fun! [Gwendolyn Bassett, Jessica Kernan]

Jpop vs Kpop Battle Royal

Jpop once ruled the air ways in Asia but now a threat is winning the hearts of millions of people around the world.  Join Panda Cubed as we pit Jpop vs Kpop in a battle royal to see who is supreme! [Joe Sakamoto, Alyssa Ollive]

Anime Song Singing 101

Are you interested in singing Anime Songs in Japanese, but you’re not sure where to begin? Come to this panel to discover various tricks and secrets to start singing! Japanese cosplay performer Mikarin will answer your vocal questions by going over singing basics such as key setting, your voice range, and your vocal health keeping issues, and then, pronunciation, intonation and rhythm issues of Japanese anime songs.   [Erich Homsher, Yu Homsher]

Living and Working in Japan

So you’ve finally made it to Japan! How are you going to live day-to-day? Where can you find work? Where are you going to hang your hat? Can you function on speaking English alone? Join Raj Ramayya as he discusses the basics of living and working in Japan, drawing from his own experiences of living and working more than 12 years in the land of the rising sun. [Raj Ramayya]

Ani.Me Live

An hour of fun real-talk from the interactive anime lifestyle website Ani.Me. Expect site news, Japan travel tips, site announcements, yaoi, mecha action, zombies, and of course videos and debate. AS ALWAYS, WE WILL GIVE YOU THE LOW-DOWN ON OUR CON-EXCLUSIVE EVENTS AND GIVEAWAYS!!! (Read: free stuff!) [Evan Jones, Mike Prasad, Chris Prasad]

Cosplay Photography at Hotels and Convention Centers

We’ll show you how to make use of hotels and convention centers as locations to do cosplay photoshoots. We’ll also show you how to make the best use of what you have when you can’t find any location. Download our panel outline at www.cosplayphotographers.com/ala2012.pdf [Richard Bui, Tim Vo, Chloe Doan]

Vocaloid: The Fan Phenomenon

What is vocaloid?  No, not just the software, but the whole ecosystem that has
become “Vocaloid”.  How did it come to be, and what will become of it? [Russell Chou, Derek Chou]

Fan Fiction Writing Workshop

This panel will be a writer’s workshop for beginning fanfic writers. It will cover characterization for main, secondary, and antagonist characters as well as writing styles, plots, dealing with writer’s block, and fanfic terminology. Free writing guides will be distributed courtesy of you-fic.net [Wesley Hartman, Shannon Hartman, Stephanie Novikoff]

Masquerade 101

Have you ever wanted to participate in Masquerade, but never known how to, or what to do? Come to Masquerade 101, where we’ll give you a basic introduction to Masquerade, and tips on everything, from conceiving and improving upon an idea, to writing a script, recording, rehearsing, and performing on stage! [Katrina Leonoudakis]

Pokemon Ondo Dance Workshop

The song is called Pokemon Ondo, and it is an ending theme to the series, Pokemon (the first season) [Ohtori Kagura, Amanda Hayward, Alex Fry]

Broken Spirits Film starring Anime Voice Actors

Come see never before seen clips of the soon to be released live action Broken Spirits sci-fi/action film. Meet the creator/star Stephen Weese, as well as stars Cristina Vee and Richard Epcar. View special scenes with your favorite actors Vic Mignogna, Spike Spencer, and even Kyle Hebert. Q&A and prizes.  [Stephen Weese, Cristina Vee, Richard Epcar, Kyle Hebert]

Ultimate Marvel Vs. Capcom 3 “ASSIST ME!” Panel

Come and meet the cast and crew of “Assist Me!” for a look into what goes into making an episode, where Maximilian gets his inspiration, and some Anime LA exclusive first looks at footage from Season 2′s “Deadpool” episode! Don’t miss out on this great chance to meet some key members of the hit YouTube series “ASSIST ME!” [Mike Young, Maximilian Christiansen, Matthew Simmons, Andrew Schieffer]

Writing for Animation

Learn the ins and outs of script writing for animation. [Craig Miller]

One Piece Fan Panel

Come join fellow One Piece fans as we discuss the most recent story developments in both the anime and manga. Share your theories and questions in an open discussion among fans.  There will also be some news from Japan and prize giveaways, too. Hosted by Podcast West members of the Unofficial One Piece Podcast. Presented by The Animanga Podcast and the Cosplay Jam podcast. [Dennis Magat, Joseph Medina, Kate Hopp, Keith Muller]

Buried Treasures of Anime

Join Justin Sevakis (Anime News Network) as he covers all that great anime you never knew existed.  [Justin Sevakis]

Rotoscoping in Animation

From the lightsabres in Star Wars to Kanye West’s Heartless, Rotoscoping (an animation technique in which animators trace over live-action film movement, frame by frame) has been a little known trick in the animation industry to bring intense realism to animation.  Join this panel to learn about the History of Rotoscoping, as well as watching famous examples of rotoscoping (A Scanner Darkly, Конёк-Горбуно́к, and Betty Boop, etc).  [Austin Wright]

Stupid Comics

For five years Dave Merrill and Shaindle Minuk have been highlighting the crazy failures of 80 years’ worth of comics on their “Mister Kitty” website. Now join them for a live slide-show presentation of some of the most hilarious, disturbing, inept, and/or clumsy examples of the comic arts!  [Dave Merrill, Shaindle Minuk]

Let’s Buy Toys

Buying toys from overseas can be quite intimidating. Join Panda Cubed as we walk you through the process and tell you is it really as good a deal as you think it is. [Joe Sakamoto, Alyssa Ollive]

Manga as High Art

Despite its ever-growing popularity, manga and anime are still looked down on a “low culture” unworthy of respect. This panel will present a discussion of how manga and anime function as art and culture, and what they mean in the modern world. It will give all otaku the tools to defend the value of their chosen hobby to unenlightened critics.  [Jake Tarbox]

Happy Sweet Tea Maid/Butler for you (Moonlight tea time)

Welcome home master and mistress ! Come and dine with us sweet tea maids & butler. At our first ever happy sweet tea maid/butler for you cafe at Anime LA. We will be play fun games. There will also be dance and singing. -We will be surviving food for minimums donation(Only cash No credit card)

Voices in Video Games

Voice actors discuss the various aspects of doing voice over work for video games and how it differs from anime production. [Julie Rei Goldstein, Kyle Hebert, Lauren Landa, Danielle McRae, Jessica Straus, Derek Stephen Prince, Jon Allen]

The Secret History of Gainax

Join us as we explore the secret 20-year history of Gainax. A royal history lesson about the circumstance and genesis of the animation studio behind titles like GURREN LAGANN, PANTY & STOCKING and EVANGELION. This panel will surely hit a nerve as we reveal long-lost details about a group of young animators that aimed for the top. [Sean O'Mara, Mark Aspillera, Matt Schley]

Clash of the Comics Main Show

For those who brought you AX Last Comic Stand. A panel worth watching with barbwire comedy, jabbing heckles and a roundhouse kick of laughs. D-boy will be hosting this comedy tournament. Auditions On Friday 4:00 PM in LP2. [Danny Gonzales]

Shibuya-Kei and Japanese Indie Music

In the 1990s, a new group of Japanese musicians hit big in the U.S. Artists like Cornelius, Pizzicato Five and Fantastic Plastic Machine combined the sounds of ’60s pop and ’90s electronic music for what came to be known as Shibuya-kei. Their songs were played at nightclubs and on college radio stations and their success opened the doors for a new generation of Japanese musicians. Join Tune in Tokyo founders Greg Hignight and Del Martin and writer Liz Ohanesian to find out just who these bands are, why they’re important and how you can track down their music. [Liz Ohanesian, Greg Hignight, Del Martin]

Spooky Classic Anime

Make the proper sacrifices and don’t miss this exploration of horror and supernatural-themed anime from the early days of Japanese animation. Traditional Japanese demons rub shoulders with ghosts, vampires, spirits, devils of all religious backgrounds, and other things that go “bump” in the night in these classic anime shows like Ge Ge Ge no Kitaro, Kaibutsu-Kun, Yokai Ningen Bem, Akuma-Kun, and Dororon Enma-Kun! [Dave Merrill]

Advanced Discussion: -isms within the anime con scene

An open discussion which attempts to tackle complex issues within anime fandom.  Is Lolita culture emotionally healthy?  Is the merchandise of Artist’s Alley simply plagiarism?  Is pretending to be Japanese destuctive to one’s identity?  Has America completely subjugated the culture of Japan and Korea by occupying their land as well as interfering with their politics?  [Austin Wright, Anton Torres, Matthew Gregory Cartagena]

Bad Asian Movie Night (18+)

Join Panda Cubed as we dive deep into our movie vaults to show you the worst that Asia has to offer. [Joe Sakamoto, Alyssa Ollive]

Colony Drop Presents: Not Kids Stuff (18+)

Politically incorrect, ultra-violent and full of adult situations, these Japanese cartoons are definitely NOT KID’S STUFF. Join the writers of Colony Drop as we explore the depths of depravity in Japanese animation, showcasing exactly the kind of filth your parents were afraid of. 18 AND OVER ONLY. [Sean O'Mara, Matt Schley]

Jessica’s late night Art Jam

Come hang out with other artists, doodle, work on backed up commissions — whatever tickles your fancy! All skill levels are welcome; just make sure you bring your sketchbooks, markers, and creativity!  Paper and pencils may be provided if needed. [Jessica Gaona]

Taco Party

If you’ve heard the word of the Taco Party then you know what’s in store but if not then come give it a try! Stop by to socialize, watch anime, play some games, make friends, and of course EAT TACOS! Everyone chips in a buck or two and in return TACOS GALORE!

Whose Line Is It? Anime! – Late Night (18+)

ACO3 Presents “Whose Line Is It? Anime!” special late night edition. Whose Line Is It? Anime! is a comedy show done in the styling of the famous TV show of similar but less punny name, with a hint of Anime and Japanese/Gaming pop culture references mixed in. We have been entertaining audiences all over Southern California for the past eight years. Whose Line Is It? Anime! has been a runaway success at major conventions all ove the west coast. Come to our show ready to laugh. [Jennifer Jaegge, Wayne Phelps, Ruthie Hanson, Norris Lo]

[PLEASE NOTE: ALL schedule and program information is subject to change at any time.]

Friday

Happy Sweet Tea Maid/Butler for you (Sunny Morning Dinning)

Welcome home master and mistress ! Come and dine with us sweet tea maids & butler. At our first ever happy sweet tea maid/butler for you cafe at Anime LA. We will be play fun games. There will also be dance and singing. -We will be surviving food for minimums donation(Only cash No credit card)

Opening Ceremonies

Opening Ceremonies

[Chaz Boston Baden, Chris Cason, Stan Sakai, Dave Merrill, Tadao Tomomatsu]

Con going 101

The premise of this panel is to discuss and share thoughts and suggestions of what the new/young con goer should consider when they attend conventions. Throughout the panel we will talk about what services and attractions conventions provide, rules/tips/community know-how that will help you have the best time without jeopardizing your time at the convention, and handy hints and helpful suggestions to make your stay at hotels that much more relaxing and enjoyable! [Matthew Lewis, Andrew Alandy, Wes Bartel, Jordan Brown]

GoH Spotlight – Chris Cason

[Chris Cason]

My Little Panel: Friendship is Magic!

A panel that takes a look into the brief history of the MLP:FiM phenomenon from its small following on /co/ to the large dedicated group otherwise known as “bronies.” There will be a trivia contest; a quick Q&A with some of the characters, and of course, ponies. [Jacqueline Yanez, Amy Lora]

DIY Advertising

Learn how to market your products with practical methods that can win and expand your target audience. Azure Lorica, Inc., a Los Angeles Theatre Company will discuss and help you get in touch with people and resources that are available to the public. Join us! Whether you are a writer, artist, amateur, or freelancer, Azure Lorica will aid to your business. We’re here just for you. [Eugene Docena, Stefanie Warner]

Advanced Cosplay: Props and Accessories

An “anything-goes” panel about how to make and wear just about anything you can’t run through a sewing machine. Need wings? Armor? Maybe you need blue skin for a day, or a gravity-defying wig? This is the panel for you! There will be samples of materials to poke at and some demonstrations of how to put things together. Bring lots of questions, any helpful hints of your own to share, or all of the above! [Sionna Neidengard, Caistarrin Mystical]

Anime’s Most Hated

Everyone has their most beloved characters that get all the love. So what happens to the ones that are the most hated? Join Panda Cubed as we give some love to the most hated anime characters ever! Come see if your favorite character made our list. [Joe Sakamoto, Alyssa Ollive]

Jaded Otaku Media Presents: You’ve been a Bad, Bad Anime

It came from the 90s! Join the Jaded Otaku as he riffs through some awesomely bad OAVs. [Jared Griego]

Intro to Playing and Running RPGs

Did you ever wonder about Role Playing Games or want to join one? Ever dream of being a GM and running your own world? This panel will take you through the steps and tricks to be successful! RPGs are being highlighted in table top gaming this year, with 4 hour sessions Friday night, Saturday night, and Sunday as well s a weekend long LARP. [Cameron Brenner, Scott Corum, Victor Gipson]

Advanced Cosplay: Lights & Electronics

Who doesn’t love costumes that light up? Or maybe you’re making a mecha costume and you need to know how to include some ventilation fans so you can breathe. This panel will cover the basics of adding electronics to your costumes – types of lighting, battery options, switches, and how to actually wire things up as simply and safely as possible. No prior experience required. [Sionna Neidengard]

Fight Scene Choreography 101

Learn the process of creating martial arts action sequences with Team Lift XMA.  With tutorials on Parkour and Freerunning technique and easy to use, good looking fight combo’s, you’ll see how the foundation of today’s action movies are choreographed and created. [Dustin Breiter, Gurpreet Sahan, Erin Fitzpatrick, David Bloom, David LaVera]

Parental Panel – What did my kids get me into?

Parents of fans and convention veterans, these folks will share their experiences and ideas for success with having progeny navigate the convention. Questions from fans on how to explain this to parents, or questions from parents are welcome! [Heide Nichols, Todd McCaffrey]

Anime Voice Actors Round Table

Join some of our guests as they discuss their experiences in the  business. [Julie Rei Goldstein, Jon Allen, Lauren Landa, Danielle McRae, Kaiji Tang, Stephen Weese, Mark Allen Jr.]

Japanese Media during the Cold War

Learn about how the war between the USA and the USSR affected Japanese Video Games during the 80′s and 90′s. Topics include ”Mutually Assured Destruction”, the “Red Army” and “Nuclear Winter,” with highlights from such games as Contra, Rush’n Attack, and Golgo13. [Austin Wright]

Clash of the Comics – Auditions

FanVibe presents: How to survive a con

The Crew of the FanVibe podcast dicuss how to survive a con in a funny, but informational way. Many laughs will be had, but you’ll walk away with some great tips and ways to handle life at a Con.  [Drew Kuethen, Taylor Mitchell, Sara Doughtry, Nicole Schroader, Shannon Wolfe, Dori Weaver, Joshua Rogers]

Who’s that Character?!

Remember the old days of Pokemon where before commercials, you’d see that “Who’s That Pokemon?!” screen with the blacked out image of the “mystery Pokemon”? Well think of this panel as something like that, but we’re going to asking about several characters from other anime series and video-games! We have candy as prizes! [Serenity Lee, Eric Oliver]

Fight Scene Choreography Advanced

Learn the process of creating martial arts action sequences with Team Lift XMA.  Using advanced techniques, you’ll see the process of choreographing actual fight scenes, chase scenes and action sequences.   Watch full speed action as you learn and experience the thrill of stage and screen combat and stunts. [Dustin Breiter, Gurpreet Sahan, Erin Fitzpatrick, David Bloom, David LaVera]

Anime Let’s Make A Deal

Join Panda Cubed as we host the only game show where everyone who plays wins! Well in some cases they win big other cases not so much. The rules are simple, pick a prize and it’s yours. But did you pick the good prize or the bad one? [Joe Sakamoto, Alyssa Ollive]

Adventure Time Panel

WHAT TIME IS IT GUYS?!? ADVENTURE TIME!! Come join our freaken sweet  panel as we talk about and laugh about all things Adventure Time. There will be plenty of geeking out to your favorite adventure time clips, songs and quotes. This is for Adventure Time fans that are down to have crazy candy parties with Finn and Jake and is ok with letting everyone and their moms know We will be referencing from all 3 seasons of Adventure Time so feel free to come dressed as your favorite Adventure Time Character and share the awesomeness that is ADVENTURE TIME! [Justine Villamarzo, Garrett Cechinni, Vladimir Medel]

Anime Convention Runners Round Table

Run or staff an anime convention or event? Interested in helping out? Or just interested in hearing the inside goings-on of anime conventions? Join the staff of various anime conventions and events talk about their experiences.  [Dave Merrill, Lloyd Carter, Marlon Stodghill, Darius Washington, Chaz Boston Baden, Natalie Daniel,

Scott Melot, Hector Reyes]

History of Lupin III

Learn about the world’s greatest gentlemen thief from the early inspirations from French novelist Maurice LeBlanc to the 40th anniversary of the Lupin III animation in Japan. Lupin III is arguably part of the great anime classics. Join Jared Griego, host of the web series “History of Lupin III” and “Best Anime You’ve Never Seen” as we go in a whirlwind history of the Lupin gang.  [Jared Griego]

Come Meet Chocolate Covered Cosplay!!!

Ever had someone troll your costume? Too tall to be Krillin, too skinny to be Wario, or not exactly the same heritage as Mulan? We are a group of 5 Women of Color dedicated to promoting the freedom of cosplay by showcasing and empowering the gamer/nerd/geek/cosplayer within us all chocolate style! Founders, Ginger Burton(GNB Cosplay), Brittney Angel Drake (Stylized artist), Ashphord ‘ashi-chan’ Jacoway (I Wish My Life Was a RPG), Danielle McRae (League of Legends), and Deanna McRae (Freelance Artist), met in June of this year and have attended and helped in many local events, contests, performances, and meet-ups in the Cosplay community, including events by LAWeekly, V3 Cosplay Syndicate, SpikeTV, MTVGeek and Meldown Comics. We welcome all fans, girls & guys of all different backgrounds to come meet the lovely ladies of Chocolate Covered Cosplay for an open and honest dialogue on con-culture and see what we ladies of C3 are all about. [Ginger Burton, Brittney Angel Drake, Ashphord Jacoway, Danielle McRae, Deanna McRae]

Japanese Action figures that kick

The panel discusses articulated action figures, and the company that produces them. [Stan Oh, Ramses Rivera]

Animé Singled Out

Are you Single? Are you Funny? Or are you just a Troll? if you answered yes to any of these questions please come on down to Animé Los Angeles Singled Out, come troll with fellow trolls, meet the love of your anime dreams and have a blast!, if you answered no then please read the part that followed Yes.  [Michael Mansour, Jason Hk Daley, Matthew D Johnson]

Team Lift XMA Q&A

Join Team Lift after the workshops for a Q7A session. Anything not answered in the workshops? Want to see a technique in play-by-play one more time?  This is the perfect opportunity to pick the brains of the Team Lift XMA Members. [Dustin Breiter, Gurpreet Sahan, Erin Fitzpatrick, David Bloom, David LaVera]

Happy Sweet Tea Maid/Butler for you (Moonlight tea time)

Welcome home master and mistress ! Come and dine with us sweet tea maids & butler. At our first ever happy sweet tea maid/butler for you cafe at Anime LA. We will be play fun games. There will also be dance and singing. -We will be surviving food for minimums donation(Only cash No credit card)

Henshin! Saving Japan since 1971

The panel discusses the history of Kamen Rider, Super Sentai, and Ultraman series, three of the Japan’s most popular franchises in Japanese TV history. [Stan Oh, Ramses Rivera]

From Mixx to Kodansha: Sailor Moon Manga, MAKE UP!

Sailor Moon has undergone a transformation with the reissue of the manga under a different publisher. Come for a comparison of the two different versions and a discussion on the changes that have been made. [Tiffany Thomas, FER Morgan]

Anime Fandom before the Internet

Do you know what an ‘APA’ is? Ever published a fanzine? Wonder how information and news got around the world before the net? Join us as we discuss the beginnings of anime fandom. [Dave Merrill, Alec Orrock, Sean O'Mara, Matt Schley, Tim Eldred]

A Dance across Time

Come join us for a beautiful formal dance surrounded by twinkling lights as we dance across time. Show off your most lavish costumes for the Crowning Contest where we will crown one queen and one king to start the last dance of the evening.

Anime Then & Now

Come join anime Producers Robert Napton, Taku Otsuka, Loy Fruel and Anthony Foronda as they wax poetic about when they joined the fandom, production, where it’s been and where it’s going. [Robert Napton, Taku Otsuka, Loy Fruel, Anthony Foronda]

How to get started in Artist Alley

Have you found yourself thinking about getting a table in
Artist Alley? Not sure where to start? Maybe you’re experienced, but
could use some tips on how to run everything more efficiently. This
panel is a crash course in how to prepare and run your Artist table
like a pro! [Jessica Gaona, Ben Juwono]

Bad Trivia for Bad Prizes (18+)

This is a comedic anime trivia panel. There will be prizes and not all of them are bad! But you won’t know until you get there. [Denzel Walkes, Andrew J Alandy, Jeniffer Beadles]

A Comedic Look at Anime: Gurren Lagann

A 30 minute video presentation of a review of Gurren Lagann and a Q&A session afterwards as well as a gift giveaway. [Justin Karvelot]

Otaku Speed Dating (18+)

Are you an Otaku? Looking for date? 18 and over? Then this is the event for you. Come in and experience OSD the Obvious Solution to Dating. This is a pre-register event with limited on-site registration.

https://www.facebook.com/events/262981563758727/

Anime Convention War Stories

“So at this one time at that anime con…” We all have our convention horror stories to share and tell from masquerade drama, road trips from hell, roommates who lack hygiene, and the inevitable con plague. We also welcome you to take the microphone and share your stories. [Jared Griego, Austin Wright, Victoria Erica, Dave Merrill, Jake Tarbox]

True Poke Stories: The Rise and Downfall of Togepi (18 + panel)

One would think that getting on the hit TV show Pokemon would be the greatest thing ever.  Well with the good comes a dark, sinister shadow waiting to corrupt the innocent.  Join Panda Cubed as we take a candid look at the life of Togepi.  We show you everything from when he was young to when he hits rock bottom. [Joe Sakamoto, Alyssa Ollive]

Pajama Party

Who needs sleep?  Well, you’re never gonna get it here!  Break out the pillows and blankets, snuggle up with your favorite plushie and stay up late with us at the Pajama Party!  Come in pajama-cosplay or just your favorite pair of PJ’s and join us for late-night fun and games.  We’ve got a Twister tournament, Karaoke, and even cosplay contest for best PJ-interpretation of your favorite characters!  Awards will be given for best PJ interpretation and best skit.

Chris’s best known voice credits include: “Gluttony” in Fullmetal Alchemist, “Tien Shinhan” in Dragonball Z, “Mr. Popo” in Dragonball Z and Dragonball Z Kai, “Holy Roman Empire” in Hetalia: Axis Powers, “Jack the Ripper” in Soul Eater, “Boo” and “Whitey” in Shin-Chan, “Miyamoto” and “M1” in Yu Yu Hakusho, “Fumihiro” in Initial D, “Chamo” in Negima, “Hanai” in School Rumble, “Babbit” in Kodocha, “Taruru” in Sgt. Frog, “Seigfried” in Kenichi, and “Hanbei” in Sengoku Basara.

He can also be heard in: Case Closed, Gunslinger Girl, Basilisk, Ouran High School Host Club, Suzuka, Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles, Black Cat, Darker Than Black, Bamboo Blade, Kaze no Stigma, Aquarion, One Piece, Big Windup!, D. Gray-Man, Beck: Mongolian Chop Squad, RIN, Corpse Princess, Speed Grapher, Summer Wars, and Fairy Tail.

Some of his ADR directing and assistant ADR directing credits include: DBZ Uncut, Dragonball, Dragonball GT, Yu Yu Hakusho, Negima, Kodocha, Galaxy Railways, Baki the Grappler, School Rumble, Hell Girl, Kaze no Stigma, Bamboo Blade, Birdy the Mighty: Decode, Initial D, and Tsubasa Tokyo Revelations.

He has also had the opportunity to be a part of many popular video games.  His two favorites were: voicing random ghouls and specters for Ghostbusters: The Video Game, and as one of the contributing guitarists in Guitar Hero 3.

For additional information, visit “Chris Cason’s Anime Chuckle Hut” on Facebook.

Rules for the Anime Los Angeles 8 Masquerade are now available.

Click here for registration forms.

To download a PDF version of the Masquerade Rules for 2012 .
This file requires Adobe Reader to view.

How to fill out the form: Print out a copy of the forms to fill out by hand (sorry, they can’t be filled out on the computer). The first page is the most important; here you’ll fill out info about your entry. All fields on this page are required. For information on the different skill divisions, please review the Masquerade Rules. Workmanship judging is not required, but if you do decide to submit yourself for judging, please bring any reference materials when you check in. Note: we will not print images for you, but there is a FedEx Office in the hotel lobby that is available for your use. Audio is not required for any entry, but please note that there will be no microphones onstage. Please pre-record your audio, or provide a narration script for the MC either on page 2 of the form or on a separate sheet.

Releases: All contestants are required to fill out the releases on pages 3 and 4 of the registration forms. This includes everyone in your group, including ninjas. Minors (contestants under 18) must also provide the signature of a parent or guardian. It’s all right if you don’t know your badge numbers when you fill out the form; you can fill that in when you arrive at the con. (As a reminder, all members of your group, even those who might not go on stage, must be members of the convention.)

To register at-con: Bring your completed forms, audio, and reference materials to the Masquerade desk during its open hours (see below). We will also have extra copies of the form available at the Masquerade desk.

All entrants: All contestants are required to check-in at the Masquerade desk in the convention center lobby at-con. Please bring any additional material at that time. You will also sign up for Tech Rehearsal (MANDATORY) and Workmanship Judging (optional) time slots at this time. No slots will be given out before the convention, so come to the desk early in the weekend for the best selection of times.

If you have any questions, concerns, or problems, please leave a comment here or use this form to contact us. We look forward to having you in the Masquerade!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What color are the drapes behind the stage?

A: They’ll be black.

Q: Can we get on and off the stage on either side?

A: Yes! There will be stairs at both stage left and stage right, and enough room behind the stage to go back and forth as long as you let us know ahead of time. The default staging will be to enter stage right, exit stage left (that’s left and right when you’re facing the audience); you’ll need to let us know if you plan on doing something different.

Q: I have a piece of music I’d like to use for my skit, but I want to edit it a little bit. What program should I use?

A: I recommend Goldwave. It’s a open-source audio editing program that you can download for free. It’s easy to use, can record from a microphone, and can do a lot of other cool things like mixing two tracks together (great if you have recorded dialogue and want to put music in the background).

Q: Help! I don’t have any recording equipment! What do I do?

A: Try asking around to your gamer friends; a lot of MMORPG folks have headsets with microphones that work just fine for recording audio (see above for a good editing program). If that doesn’t work, you have a couple options: Consider writing a script for the MC to read, either as narration or as something more interactive. Or, consider forgoing dialogue altogether, and turning your skit into pantomime, a lá silent films. Or, consider doing a walk-on to a piece of interesting music with a bit of choreography.

Q: I’d like to say “[expletive deleted]” in my skit. Is that okay?

A: Our Masquerade is rated PG, and is a family show with children in the audience. Think about things you’d see on ABC Family or The Disney Channel. To quote from the MPAA guidelines, “A … single use of one of the harsher sexually-derived words, though only as an expletive, initially requires at least a PG-13 rating,” so don’t do it. I recommend refraining from profanity if at all possible, though groups in the past have “bleeped” out the swear words Jerry Springer-style. If in doubt, feel free to ask.

Animé Los Angeles welcomes you all!  First, we would like to thank
everyone and their inquiries.  It shows to us how excited and
enthusiastic everyone is for the upcoming convention.  Animé Los
Angeles is happy to announce that Artist Alley applications will soon
be online!  We apologize for the extreme delays as we have been
working on several exciting news of Artist Alley!

New Location

Artist Alley will be moving to a new location!  Previously, Artist
Alley has been located downstairs in the Marquis Ballrooms.  This
year, to help alleviate demand, Artist Alley will be moving to the
Meridian Ballroom, located on the lobby level of Marriott LAX.  The
move to the Meridian will increase the number of tables being offered
as well as a quieter area with ample room to move around.

New Registration and Application Process

The registration and application process will be as simple as previous
year, however we will be implementing a new change.  We understand
that not everyone has the same connection speed, or computer speed, or
schedules.  Like many, most artists like yourselves also have classes,
work, and social events to attend to.  To give everyone a fair chance
to apply, Animé Los Angeles will like to announce that we have
switched to a lottery system.  While there may be concerns about this
process, we feel that this is the most fair way to give everyone a
chance to represent their work in Artist Alley.

Rules and Guidelines

The new Artist Alley management team is currently hard at work and
will be posting the new rules and guidelines within the next few days
for Animé Los Angeles 8.  By studying current trends and how many
other conventions operate, the management is ensuring that all artists
are able to sell and operate equally as fellow artists.

As we finalize the number of spaces available for Artist Alley, if you
have any comments, questions, or concerns that have not been covered,
please feel free to contact any of us either at
artistinfo2012@animelosangeles.org or
exhibits2012@animelosangeles.org.

Please feel free to share this
information with your friends and colleagues!

We thank each and everyone for your patience and look forward to
seeing you at Animé Los Angeles 8!

Gary de Guzman
exhibits2012@animelosangeles.org
Animé Los Angeles 8 Exhibitions Head

.

Friday

1:30 – 2:30    Momotama

3:15 – 4:15    Kairu

Saturday

11:00 – 12:00    Stephanie Yanez

12:30 – 1:30    Kairu

2:00 – 3:00    Dig Jelly [CANCELLED]

3:30 – 4:30    Tanuki Suit Riot

Sunday

11:30 – 12:30    Vocalekt

1:00 – 2:00    Raj Ramayya

2:30 – 3:30    Momotama

Momotama – Momotama is comprised of guitarist Rome and vocalist/ keyboardist Mikarin. This project came to fruition because of the passion for anime songs that these two otakus from Japan have. Guitarist Rome was seventeen years old when he first started playing the guitar. His heart was captured by the beauty of Bossa Nova when he first heard Evangelion’s version of “Fly Me To The Moon.” Since then he has performed in various sessions as a “Bossanovista” as well as participated in other sessions involving Samba and West African music. Vocalist Mikarin hasn’t stopped singing since she was four years old and singing children’s songs to her bed-ridden grandmother. In fact her main reason for coming to the USA was to study vocalization techniques. Eventually her heart turned back to her country and she realized the beauty and joy that exists in Anime songs as well as cosplay. So far, as a cosplay performer, Mikarin has taken parts in PMX, SoCal Cosplay Ball and a fundraiser for Japan held in Irvine.

Kairu – Inspired in Jr.high by the Japanese rock genre Visual-Kei Kairu began performing live at age 16 forming and leading the band {mid:night}. After years of honing his song writing and live performance skills all over the West Coast {mid:night} dissolved and kairu began his solo project with the aim of bringing together the modern sounds and styles of the east with the west. Kairu’s first live was at the famous San Francisco venue BOTTOM OF THE HILL in May 2010 and constant live activity began in January 2011 with a 3 day consecutive live at two of the largest anime conventions in California: SAC-ANIME and ANIME LOS ANGELES. Half-way into the first year of live activity the line-up of Kairu’s backing band was solidified and became known as “FLESH FEVER”. Whether at a anime convention, a night club, or a divey bar Kairu w/FLESH FEVER brings a live energy and genre spanning rock sound that will connect with anyone.

http://www.facebook.com/kairuofficial
http://www.myspace.com/schwarzesonneband
http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/kairu/

Stephanie Yanez – Stephanie Yanez is an American Jpop singer, Virtual Idol of Japanese anime avatar site TinierMe.com, and Anime Expo’s AX Idol. She has toured all over the States and in Japan. She has been seen on T.V. as the Tokyo Reporter for Anime Select’s Comcast On Demand documentary “Crazy Sexy Tokyo”. Miss Yanez has released numerous CD’S and singles which are all on iTunes, Amazon,etc. She has worked with Crypton Future Media, Gcrest, Aniplex USA, I’VE Sound, Geneon USA, Victor Entertainment, and Broccoli on numerous projects. She has opened up and shared the same stage with Kotoko, Yousei Teikoku, and Nikka Costa. She recently officially collaborated with Crypton Future Media’s Hatsune Miku and TinierMe with “Ultimate Miku World”, an exclusive song and music video.

http://stephanieyanez.com

Dig Jelly – Dig Jelly is a Los Angeles based female fronted high – energy modern rock band unlike anyone, versatile yet grounded in it’s signature sound. Dig Jelly has released a self-titled EP “Dig Jelly” and two full length/self produced CDs “For Your Inner Angry Child” (3 of it’s tracks engineered by Richard Kaplan – Korn, Deftones, Limp Bizkit) and “ParaNoize” which independently sold well over 1000 copies a couple weeks following the release date. Dig Jelly’s mind blowing live show is filled with raw energy and sex appeal and it demonstrates the band’s unmistakable chemistry and musicianship. They have an “in your face” attitude and impressive showmanship on stage that is well received. Dig Jelly has done National Tours opening for Veruca Salt, and The Lovemakers of Interscope. Show after show has proven to be a testament to their hard work and dedication. Dig Jelly has been consistently entertaining packed crowds throughout California and Arizona. In 2007 Dig Jelly had built two full on protool recording/rehearsal studios both in Los Angeles and Orange County where they continue to record their new material.

http://www.digjelly.com
http://www.facebook.com/digjelly?sk=info
http://www.reverbnation.com/digjelly

Tanuki Suit Riot – From funk, jazz, rock, and even salsa, the Riot infuse every possible style into their musical onslaught of hip and hilarious covers of classics from Mario Brothers to Cowboy Bebop, to toe-tapping J-Pop hits. The versatility of these nerd masters will convert even the most jaded snobs to the joys of videogame-core, where the best of Prince, Bowie, and Michael Jackson compete with a riff from Donkey Kong, and Mozart meets Sonic the Hedgehog head on. The Riot can be seen playing at outdoor events, festivals, bars, and conventions near you. You can download their debut album, The Edo Sessions at www.tanukisuitriot.com.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tanuki-Suit-Riot/203407589697868
http://twitter.com/tanukisuit
http://www.myspace.com/tanukisuitriot

Vocalekt – Tempo-P and NeutrinoP started Vocalekt Visions in 2011. Since then, Vocalekt Visions started spreading their network to join in team members from all around the world. Together with partners, Vocalekt Visions have gone to different conventions to show Hatsune Miku the software, giving public speeches and hosting live DJ performances using their original Vocaloid/Hatsune Miku music, AniMiku animations and cosplay team.

Starting with J-pop Summit Festival 2011 in San Francisco CA, Vocalekt Visions has made their presence known in Vocaloid panels in Cambridge MA, Berkeley CA and Los Angeles CA. Next year Vocalekt Visions’ original music and animations are scheduled to perform in the Philippines, Scotland and Romania. Quickly they are becoming the most active Vocaloid group outside Japan.

Vocalekt Visions’ music is featured in fan-made video games, and fan-made movies and available at major Internet retailer outlets such as iTunes and Amazon. Recent contributions to the Western Vocaloid scene have made Vocalekt Visions a buzz topic among the English/Western Vocaloid fan base. Major Vocaloid websites such as Vocaloidism have written articles about their recent activities.

At AnimeLA, Vocalekt Visions will guest star a popular Engloid Producer – Koda-P. His popularity within the Western Vocaloid and UTAU fandom is increasing with his popular songs written using English Vocaloids and UTAU software.

FREE Vocalekt Visions EP CDs “Tuned in the West” for participants who arrive early!

Raj Ramayya – Raj Ramayya is an Indo-Canadian singer, composer and lyricist based in Marin County, California. He has been featured as a guest singer/composer with several distinguished artists, from famed composers Yoko Kanno (Turn A Gundam, Cowboy Bebop, Wolf’s Rain) and Tatsuya Oe (Captain Funk, Hotei), to lyricists Chris Mosdell (Eric Clapton, YMO) and Ron Sexsmith, and everyone in-between. His work has won him multiple awards and critical acclaim from around the world. Among his projects are the electronic Indian fusion music project “Bhang Lassi”, the alternative Indian-influenced folk rock band “The Beautiful Losers”, and session singing for products ranging from Asahi Beer and KFC, to Toyota and Coca-Cola. He is also a guest vocalist with Japanese electronic music groups Captain Funk, Akakage, and Studio Apartment, with SA’s song “Strawberry Rainbow” (which Raj both sung and wrote lyrics for) hitting #1 on the iTunes Japan charts. Raj’s most famous work to anime fans, of course, would be his songs with Yoko Kanno on the soundtracks for Cowboy Bebop the Movie and Wolf’s Rain. Raj sung “Ask DNA” and wrote the lyrics for “Cosmic Dare (Pretty with a Pistol)” from Cowboy Bebop: the Movie, and both sang and wrote the lyrics for “Strangers” from Wolf’s Rain. Raj has also worked on songs for video games from the likes of Konami, Sega, and Capcom. He’s excited to be coming to Anime Los Angeles for the first time and can’t wait to meet everyone!

http://www.rajramayya.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Raj-Ramayya/107723239249478