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Otakon: Complete Guest of Honor List
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Thomas Heaton took a moment out of his schedule to pass the complete Otakon 2001 Guest List to the Otakon ML..
Excerpted from the Otakon ML posts:
The Guest Relations Department would like to announce it's Japanese Guests of Honor:
Masao Maruyama - Producer
How can the intensely cute Card Captor Sakura anime and the seriously mature (new) Vampire Hunter D movie be connected to each other in any way? Both are beautifully animated, and that is all thanks to Madhouse Studios, along with it's founder and CEO, Masao Maruyama. Madhouse is responsible for many great anime, the likes of which include (but is not limited to): Birdy the Mighty, Card Captor Sakura, Jubei-chan, Ninja Scroll, Perfect Blue, Record of the Loddoss Wars, and Trigun. Aside from running one of the most respected animation houses in Japan, Mr. Maruyama has helped produce some of the anime Madhouse has made, such as: Alexander, Loddoss Wars, and Petshop of Horrors.
Kazuya Tsurumaki - Director
Most people credit Hideki Anno as the Director for Neon Genesis Evangelion, which is true, but lurking in the shadows was Mr. Tsurumaki, Assistant Director for the hit anime show. Mr. Tsurumaki got to show the world what he was made of when he was given directorial control over the Evangelion movies. GAINAX's next project was Kareshi Kanojo no Jijoo; this too proved to be a success. After lending his hand to both Storyboarding and Technical Direction on KareKano, Tsurumaki was given his own project: FLCL (aka: Furi Kuri). FLCL is based on Tsurumaki's concepts, and this six-part OAV was Directed by him as well.
Toshihiro Kawamoto - Character Designer
Mr. Kawamoto is the character designer for Cowboy Bebop, a show that's probably familiar to most anime fans by now! With the new movie slated for release soon in Japanese theaters, even more people will come to know this truly wonderful story. Toshihiro Kawamoto's other works include character designs for Gundam 08th MS Team and Golden Boy, as well as being the Animation Supervisor on the Ghost in the Shell video game for the PSX. Please help us welcome this talented man to his first visit to OTAKON!
Hikaru Midorikawa - Voice Actor
Hikaru Midorikawa is perhaps one of the most popular Voice Actors in Japan today. His roles include Heero Yuy from Gundam Wing, Tamahome from Fushigi Yuugi (Mysterious Play), Zelgadis from Slayers, and many others. He's lent his voice to many anime and video games over the years, and OTAKON is pleased to have him take time out of his busy schedule to attend our convention.
These American Guests of Honor will be attending OTAKON for it's 2001 convention:
Steve Bennett - Guru
Website: http://www.ironcat.com/
"You know him, you love him!" If you don't know who this man is, you have either: a) Never attended an anime convention before or b) Been too busy in the video rooms. Never to disappoint, Steve has been a vital part of anime fandom since he hit the scene as a founder of Studio Ironcat. Ironcat is responsible for the translations of various manga like Futabakun-Change!, Vampire Princess Miyu, Crusher Joe, and Cutey Honey. You cannot miss him, just look for the entourage.
Jo Chen - Artist
Website: http://www.jo-chen.com/
In 1999, this young artist published a two-volume shoujo manga entitled The Other Side of the Mirror. Initially published in Taiwan, it made it's way to Hong Kong, China and, eventually Korea. Ms. Chen was quoted as saying "It sold very well and I think it won some sort of award recently." After the success of Wildstorm's Speed Racer adaptation, Ms. Chen was brought on to pencil the follow-up Racer X comic. Her most current projects are a new publication, Brain Stew and Darkminds Vol. 3.
Colleen Doran - Artist
Website: http://www.colleendoran.com
Colleen Doran has been illustrating comics for a long time. She's worked with almost all of the big publishers, but her current project, perhaps her most popular and high-profile, is the anime-inspired A Distant Soil, through Image Comics. Both she, and A Distant Soil have been praised and highly acclaimed by such notable people as Harlan Ellison and Neil Gaiman. Among her many projects, she's recently released Manga Mania: How To Draw Japanese Comics, and there is another "how to" book on anime in the works.
Scott Frazier - Animator
Website: http://sockfairy.com/scott/
Scott's importance to the American anime community is hard to deny. In 1989 he became the first foreigner to work in the production department of an anime studio. He's worked on such anime as Bubblegum Crash, Moldiver, and Genocyber in his many years in the field. After a stint working for the US leg of Production I.G., he moved on to work for Trimedia East, the makers of RETAS, an award-winning software that aids in 2D animation.
Fred Gallagher & Rodney Caston - Web Manga
Website: http://www.megatokyo.com
The World Wide Web may not be the new frontier it used to be, but it's still a great place for young aspiring artists and writers. Two such people will be attending OTAKON, and the culmination of their work is Megatokyo. A fusion of their gaming roots and love for anime. If you have not already experienced Megatokyo, go to their website, it's free, and it's fun.
Tiffany Grant - Voice Actress
Website: http://www.eva-r.com/tiff/tiff.htm
Tiffany Grant is very happy to be returning for her third OTAKON appearance after having had a very enjoyable time here in 1998 & 1999. Best known as Asuka in the English dub of Neon Genesis Evangelion, Tiffany was the first voice actor hired by AD Vision in early 1994. She has since voiced characters in 120+ videos (series, OVAs & movies). Current roles include Yoko Tokashiki Princess Nine, as well as the upcoming theatrical release of Spriggan and supporting work in Gasaraki (episode 20) and AD Police (multiple episodes).
Scott Houle - ADR Director
Have you ever had aspirations of being a voice actor? Well this man can help. He runs Coastal Carolina Studios and will be bringing up one of his studios so you can "Dub Yer Own Anime". Scott has been involved in many projects from Blue Submarine no. 6 to the Virtua Fighter TV series. Be sure to check it out!
Ian Kim - Artist
Website: http://www.emikogenesis.com/, http://www.genesischronicles.com/
Ian is the designer of several Otakon shirts and program books (including this year's). He is also the sole artist/writer for Genesis Chronicles, a non-existent comic that has been under development for over seven years. He will be more than happy to share his thoughts on life, love, and anime, whether you are an Emiko fan (i.e. a pink-hair otaku with inhuman patience), or someone that shares a keen interest in creating and drawing anime. Approach with a sense of humor. ^_^
Shin Kurokawa - Translator...?
Website: http://www.animeigo.com/
AnimEigo's "translator in chief" can be found roaming the halls of most any anime con. Rumor is that Shin does more goofing off than actual work, but translations do get in. He's a great guy to talk to, so take the chance and talk to him. He doesn't bite.
Fred Perry - Artist
Website: http://www.cheetaholics.net/
Fred Perry has been involved in the American manga industry for a long time now. He is probably best known for his work on the Gold Diggers and Legacy manga series'. Few equal Fred in his artistic ability, and he is an all around great guy. When not doing guest-type events, he can be found roaming the Artist's Alley or playing video games...
Gilles Poitras - Author
Website: http://www.mindspring.com/~cowpunk1/
Normal guy by day, Anime lecturer by night, Gilles Poitras is one knowledgeable anime fan. He has written much about anime, including the Anime Companion and Anime Essentials. Don't miss him as he comes back to OTAKON. You may actually learn something...
Adam Warren - Artist
Fan Site: http://www.adamwarren.com/
Even with artistic contributions to Spin magazine, and a new writting gig on Wildstorm Comic's Gen 13, Adam Warren can't forget his roots... manga. Along with Toren Smith, Warren produced one of the earliest American adaptations of an anime or manga. The Dirty Pair has since spawned multiple volumes, and Warren also helped to produce the American Bubblegum Crisis comic. He keeps busy writing these days, but you will most likely find him wandering about the Artist Alley.
Pamela Weidner - Voice Actress
Although most of her time is taken up Editing and Directing for Coastal Carolina Studios, Pamela has had her hand in many voice acting roles. She was the Voice for Skuld in Oh! My Goddess, Sheena from Shinesmen, and Miyu in Vampire Princess Miyu. She will be helping Scott Houle with the "Dub Yer Own Anime" panel.
And our favorite Mascot:
Hiroko-chan - Mascot
Age: late teens
Blood type: AB
Hair: Red, long
Eyes: Blue/Green/depends on her mood. ^_^
Hiroko-chan joined the OTAKON staff in 1995 and as our friendliest, cutest member she has been our mascot ever since. She made her first public appearance on the OTAKON 1995 flyer/t-shirt, and while she has changed her look a little over the years, she remains the same girl no matter who draws her. Her name comes from the anime Otaku no Video, but don't confuse her with Misty May. Hiroko-chan likes anime, cute guys, and mint chocolate chip ice cream.
The Guest Relations Department would like to announce it's Japanese Guests of Honor:
Masao Maruyama - Producer
How can the intensely cute Card Captor Sakura anime and the seriously mature (new) Vampire Hunter D movie be connected to each other in any way? Both are beautifully animated, and that is all thanks to Madhouse Studios, along with it's founder and CEO, Masao Maruyama. Madhouse is responsible for many great anime, the likes of which include (but is not limited to): Birdy the Mighty, Card Captor Sakura, Jubei-chan, Ninja Scroll, Perfect Blue, Record of the Loddoss Wars, and Trigun. Aside from running one of the most respected animation houses in Japan, Mr. Maruyama has helped produce some of the anime Madhouse has made, such as: Alexander, Loddoss Wars, and Petshop of Horrors.
Kazuya Tsurumaki - Director
Most people credit Hideki Anno as the Director for Neon Genesis Evangelion, which is true, but lurking in the shadows was Mr. Tsurumaki, Assistant Director for the hit anime show. Mr. Tsurumaki got to show the world what he was made of when he was given directorial control over the Evangelion movies. GAINAX's next project was Kareshi Kanojo no Jijoo; this too proved to be a success. After lending his hand to both Storyboarding and Technical Direction on KareKano, Tsurumaki was given his own project: FLCL (aka: Furi Kuri). FLCL is based on Tsurumaki's concepts, and this six-part OAV was Directed by him as well.
Toshihiro Kawamoto - Character Designer
Mr. Kawamoto is the character designer for Cowboy Bebop, a show that's probably familiar to most anime fans by now! With the new movie slated for release soon in Japanese theaters, even more people will come to know this truly wonderful story. Toshihiro Kawamoto's other works include character designs for Gundam 08th MS Team and Golden Boy, as well as being the Animation Supervisor on the Ghost in the Shell video game for the PSX. Please help us welcome this talented man to his first visit to OTAKON!
Hikaru Midorikawa - Voice Actor
Hikaru Midorikawa is perhaps one of the most popular Voice Actors in Japan today. His roles include Heero Yuy from Gundam Wing, Tamahome from Fushigi Yuugi (Mysterious Play), Zelgadis from Slayers, and many others. He's lent his voice to many anime and video games over the years, and OTAKON is pleased to have him take time out of his busy schedule to attend our convention.
These American Guests of Honor will be attending OTAKON for it's 2001 convention:
Steve Bennett - Guru
Website: http://www.ironcat.com/
"You know him, you love him!" If you don't know who this man is, you have either: a) Never attended an anime convention before or b) Been too busy in the video rooms. Never to disappoint, Steve has been a vital part of anime fandom since he hit the scene as a founder of Studio Ironcat. Ironcat is responsible for the translations of various manga like Futabakun-Change!, Vampire Princess Miyu, Crusher Joe, and Cutey Honey. You cannot miss him, just look for the entourage.
Jo Chen - Artist
Website: http://www.jo-chen.com/
In 1999, this young artist published a two-volume shoujo manga entitled The Other Side of the Mirror. Initially published in Taiwan, it made it's way to Hong Kong, China and, eventually Korea. Ms. Chen was quoted as saying "It sold very well and I think it won some sort of award recently." After the success of Wildstorm's Speed Racer adaptation, Ms. Chen was brought on to pencil the follow-up Racer X comic. Her most current projects are a new publication, Brain Stew and Darkminds Vol. 3.
Colleen Doran - Artist
Website: http://www.colleendoran.com
Colleen Doran has been illustrating comics for a long time. She's worked with almost all of the big publishers, but her current project, perhaps her most popular and high-profile, is the anime-inspired A Distant Soil, through Image Comics. Both she, and A Distant Soil have been praised and highly acclaimed by such notable people as Harlan Ellison and Neil Gaiman. Among her many projects, she's recently released Manga Mania: How To Draw Japanese Comics, and there is another "how to" book on anime in the works.
Scott Frazier - Animator
Website: http://sockfairy.com/scott/
Scott's importance to the American anime community is hard to deny. In 1989 he became the first foreigner to work in the production department of an anime studio. He's worked on such anime as Bubblegum Crash, Moldiver, and Genocyber in his many years in the field. After a stint working for the US leg of Production I.G., he moved on to work for Trimedia East, the makers of RETAS, an award-winning software that aids in 2D animation.
Fred Gallagher & Rodney Caston - Web Manga
Website: http://www.megatokyo.com
The World Wide Web may not be the new frontier it used to be, but it's still a great place for young aspiring artists and writers. Two such people will be attending OTAKON, and the culmination of their work is Megatokyo. A fusion of their gaming roots and love for anime. If you have not already experienced Megatokyo, go to their website, it's free, and it's fun.
Tiffany Grant - Voice Actress
Website: http://www.eva-r.com/tiff/tiff.htm
Tiffany Grant is very happy to be returning for her third OTAKON appearance after having had a very enjoyable time here in 1998 & 1999. Best known as Asuka in the English dub of Neon Genesis Evangelion, Tiffany was the first voice actor hired by AD Vision in early 1994. She has since voiced characters in 120+ videos (series, OVAs & movies). Current roles include Yoko Tokashiki Princess Nine, as well as the upcoming theatrical release of Spriggan and supporting work in Gasaraki (episode 20) and AD Police (multiple episodes).
Scott Houle - ADR Director
Have you ever had aspirations of being a voice actor? Well this man can help. He runs Coastal Carolina Studios and will be bringing up one of his studios so you can "Dub Yer Own Anime". Scott has been involved in many projects from Blue Submarine no. 6 to the Virtua Fighter TV series. Be sure to check it out!
Ian Kim - Artist
Website: http://www.emikogenesis.com/, http://www.genesischronicles.com/
Ian is the designer of several Otakon shirts and program books (including this year's). He is also the sole artist/writer for Genesis Chronicles, a non-existent comic that has been under development for over seven years. He will be more than happy to share his thoughts on life, love, and anime, whether you are an Emiko fan (i.e. a pink-hair otaku with inhuman patience), or someone that shares a keen interest in creating and drawing anime. Approach with a sense of humor. ^_^
Shin Kurokawa - Translator...?
Website: http://www.animeigo.com/
AnimEigo's "translator in chief" can be found roaming the halls of most any anime con. Rumor is that Shin does more goofing off than actual work, but translations do get in. He's a great guy to talk to, so take the chance and talk to him. He doesn't bite.
Fred Perry - Artist
Website: http://www.cheetaholics.net/
Fred Perry has been involved in the American manga industry for a long time now. He is probably best known for his work on the Gold Diggers and Legacy manga series'. Few equal Fred in his artistic ability, and he is an all around great guy. When not doing guest-type events, he can be found roaming the Artist's Alley or playing video games...
Gilles Poitras - Author
Website: http://www.mindspring.com/~cowpunk1/
Normal guy by day, Anime lecturer by night, Gilles Poitras is one knowledgeable anime fan. He has written much about anime, including the Anime Companion and Anime Essentials. Don't miss him as he comes back to OTAKON. You may actually learn something...
Adam Warren - Artist
Fan Site: http://www.adamwarren.com/
Even with artistic contributions to Spin magazine, and a new writting gig on Wildstorm Comic's Gen 13, Adam Warren can't forget his roots... manga. Along with Toren Smith, Warren produced one of the earliest American adaptations of an anime or manga. The Dirty Pair has since spawned multiple volumes, and Warren also helped to produce the American Bubblegum Crisis comic. He keeps busy writing these days, but you will most likely find him wandering about the Artist Alley.
Pamela Weidner - Voice Actress
Although most of her time is taken up Editing and Directing for Coastal Carolina Studios, Pamela has had her hand in many voice acting roles. She was the Voice for Skuld in Oh! My Goddess, Sheena from Shinesmen, and Miyu in Vampire Princess Miyu. She will be helping Scott Houle with the "Dub Yer Own Anime" panel.
And our favorite Mascot:
Hiroko-chan - Mascot
Age: late teens
Blood type: AB
Hair: Red, long
Eyes: Blue/Green/depends on her mood. ^_^
Hiroko-chan joined the OTAKON staff in 1995 and as our friendliest, cutest member she has been our mascot ever since. She made her first public appearance on the OTAKON 1995 flyer/t-shirt, and while she has changed her look a little over the years, she remains the same girl no matter who draws her. Her name comes from the anime Otaku no Video, but don't confuse her with Misty May. Hiroko-chan likes anime, cute guys, and mint chocolate chip ice cream.
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