Anime action: Japanese pop culture fest to hit Abu Dhabi

Manga mania has found its way to these shores with a three-day festival celebrating all things Anime to be held on Yas Island in October.

The Alliance, organisers of the Middle East Film and Comic Con, and GAMES Middle East event, will launch of ANI:ME at du Forum, Yas Island from 27 to 29 of October.

Expected to draw thousands of pop culture fans for what will be a celebration of Japanese entertainment and popular culture, you can expect some of the best in anime, manga, cinema, music, games, fashion and culinary delights.

The event will also include some of the biggest J-Pop/Rock bands, “anisong” legends, creators of some of the most popular anime and manga titles, along with voice talent, cosplayers and artists from the world of video games.

Visitors will also be able to explore and experience traditional elements of Japanese culture including calligraphy, traditional sword fighting, art and amezaiku candy making in the Japan Culture Village alongside fashion, traditional and contemporary cuisine, authentic handicrafts and live demonstrations.

The ever popular art of Cosplay will also be a massive component at ANI:ME with, for the first time in the region, a competition that will send the best cosplayer from the event to Japan, to compete in the world finals of the World Cosplay Summit.

According to organisers, ANI:ME visitors of all ages will be transported to another world where they can enjoy the unique and eclectic style of Japan.

“The ANI:ME Festival will be an immersive experience, with every element, act and exhibitor encompassing the theme. So whether you want to meet some of your manga creator heroes, or just enjoy a fun and fascinating weekend, ANI:ME in October has it all covered,” said Arafaat Ali Khan, Director of Communications at The Alliance.

“As a result of the massive appetite for anime and Japanese culture in the Middle East, ANI:ME intends offer die-hard fans and newbies alike the chance to gather at an event that caters to every aspect of the ever-growing pop culture phenomenon,” said Ben Caddy, CEO of The Alliance.

He added: “We hope to build the ANI:ME project in partnership with Yas Island to become a regional celebration of art, entertainment and culture and celebrate the strong ties the Middle East already has with Japan.”

Details of the line-up of guests, activities demonstrations and events will be announced in the coming weeks.

Tickets will be available soon.

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