In case you missed, Ani-Con is a new anime convention coming to the Memorial Union at Arizona State University this July. You don’t need to be a student to attend (but you do get a discount if you are a student). I recently was able to ask the Events Director Dylan a few questions about the upcoming convention.

Q: What advantage(s) does holding Ani-Con in the heart of ASU have?
Dylan: ASU is a vibrant and beautiful campus with a thriving student population, which creates a unique and energetic atmosphere for the convention. The location allows our team to tap into the university building’s resources and facilities, providing spacious venues for panels, performances, and interactive activities. The venue we have chosen also allows students, faculty, and alumni who are passionate about anime at ASU to experience a convention in a familiar, yet different, environment in the form of Ani-Con!

Q: It truly feels like the popularity of anime and manga in Arizona is growing at lightning speed. We’ve seen a handful of new events geared toward anime, how do you put your own spin on the event and separate yourself from other anime events in Arizona?
Dylan: The growth of the anime community has been truly astounding, and multiple amazing new events are sprouting up across the valley as we speak! Ani-Con stands out by offering a fresh environment to attendees and we strive to put our own spin on the event by promising to bring a unique experience to each and every one of our attendees. Our programming showcases a diverse range of content such as, panel discussions with industry experts, cafes, and unique collaborations with local artists, cosplayers, voice actors, and even a comedy show! We also aim to provide a platform for aspiring creators to showcase their work, organizing contests and exhibitions that encourage a fun and creative event. By creating our own inclusive environment, we ensure that Ani-Con will be a memorable experience that caters to the interests and passions of anime fans of all ages!

Q: From your experience in attending other events, what makes a truly fun experience at an anime convention in your opinion?
Dylan: In my opinion, the biggest element that makes an anime convention truly fun are the events and the people who attend. An anime convention without intriguing programming does not make it very appealing for many attendees to attend. That is why our team is trying to make Ani-Con an experience to remember by bringing in many local and out of town talents to showcase their skills to the anime community in Arizona!

Q:What’s one thing you want attendees walking away from Ani-Con thinking?
Dylan: If I were to choose one thing that attendees would take away from Ani-Con, It would be the goal of discovering the world of anime and manga beyond the convention. We hope that attendees would leave the convention satisfied and with a new found curiosity to explore more within the medium of anime and manga. whether it be through cosplay, fan art, or storytelling. Ultimately, we strive for attendees to leave Ani-Con with a renewed enthusiasm for anime!

Q: What anime are you currently watching?
Dylan: I’m glad you asked! Currently I’m watching many different anime this season, however there is one anime that truly stands out to me and that is Hell’s Paradise! I won’t be giving too much of the story away, but the story and characters are fantastical and intriguing and I highly recommend giving it a watch!

For more Ani-Con news, make sure you are following Legion of Sand on Twitter/Instagram as well as Ani-Con on Instagram.