Panels and Workshops
Here are descriptions of most of the panels and workshops that you will find at Providence Anime Conference:
The Absolute Worst of Osamu Tezuka
Presented by Mike Toole
Osamu Tezuka, the "God of Manga," was a genius who blazed the trail of the entire manga and anime industry, creating celebrated favorites like Astroboy and Kimba. He was always a workaholic and notorious micromanager, whose genius was flawed as often as it was not. You know his hits -- now, let's look at the rest of Osamu Tezuka's legacy!
ADR Directing
Presented by Christopher Ayres, David Williams, and Tom Wayland
Learn what it takes to create an English dub from start to finish from three experienced ADR directors. It doesn't matter if you've dreamed of becoming a voice actor or if you're just fascinated by the behind-the-scenes process.
ADV Films
Presented by David Williams
For a decade and a half, ADV Films has been one of the leaders in producing and distributing anime in the United States. Join ADV veteran David Williams for this discussion about what is going on at ADV and what plans they have for the future.
All About Anime Cons
Presented by Patrick Delahanty of AnimeCons.com
Have you thought about starting up an anime convention of your own? Have you wondered what it takes to get it off the ground and make it successful? PatrickD, co-founder of Anime Boston and Providence Anime Conference and the creator of AnimeCons.com, shares his insight into the convention scene.
AMV Creation: Start to Finish
Presented by Brian Auxier, Heather Kiselica, and Laura
Ever want to make an anime music video? Do you want to know what that is? Do you want info on how make one step by step? Then come to this panel and find out.
Anime as Education: Using Anime in the Classroom
Presented by Sarah Hodge-Wetherbe
With a wealth of stories to tell, anime and manga can be used to enhance many lessons for students today. Paralibrarian Sarah Hodge-Wetherbe discusses some of her favorite "classroom" anime, and opens the discussion for participants to add their own to the list.
Anime in China
Presented by Kevin McKeever
In the spring of 2007 the Robotech Convention Tour attended the 3rd China International Cartoon Animation Festival (CICAF) in Hangzhou, China. Did people cosplay? How big was it? How many people were there? Did they have a dealers' room? What was the city like? Now it is your chance to get your answers to these questions and see how anime and Robotech is viewed in the world's fastest growing economy.
Anime in the 60s
Presented by Mike Toole
The 1960s was the first great "boom" period for Japanese animation, and would define the look and feel of our favorite crazy foreign cartoons for decades to come. Here, we'll take a look at how it all started, and chronicle the high-budget movies and low-budget TV that would launch the storied careers of guys with names like Miyazaki and Tomino.
Anno Atomu: Manga Before the Age of Tezuka
Presented by Geoffrey Tebbetts
While many see Osamu Tezuka as a pioneer in manga after World War II, most tend to forget that he was not the first cartoonist in Japan and that his craft was molded from both foreign and domestic influences. This panel will show examples of prewar and wartime manga from Japan, as well as develop a discussion on major themes covered in manga from the 1920s and 1930s.
Art Theft
Presented by Eilonnwy, Ang
When art theft is now as easy as a right click and save, it's important to know what you can do about it. This panel is an in depth discussion art theft including defining art theft, copyright laws, how to protect yourself, and how to recognize art theft.
A Brief History of Japan
Presented by the Comiku Girls
Thousands of years of history! All in one hour! The Heien Era, the Warring States, the Feudal Period... Where do Samurai and Ninjas fit in? This panel talks about the history of Japan so that fans can have a better sense of the historical context that has helped shape some of their favorite anime and manga.
Back in MY day...
Presented by Chris Beveridge, Kevin McKeever, David Williams, and others
Join veterans of anime fandom as they sit around and swap stories of what life was like back in the day. Share your own stories of walking ten miles in the snow to buy anime.
Bleach - of Death and Dyings
Presented by Iris "Rakshar" Gordon
The origins and meanings of concepts, perspectives and symbols within the series. Explore the characters, creatures and symbols from a mythological and cultural anthropological perspective spanning thousands of years in Japanese lore. Death has never been so entertaining. (Discussion will not span beyond the North American release of manga; spoiler-free people welcome!)
The Business of Anime
Presented by Adam Sheehan
FUNimation Entertainment's Senior Events Manager, Adam Sheehan, presents a general 101 on the business behind anime.
Chris Ayres Guest Panel
Presented by Chris Ayres
A noted voice actor and ADR director, Chris Ayres has acted professionally since the age of 6 and is the voice behind a multitude of anime characters; notable roles include Kei Kouron in Gantz, Suitengu in Speed Grapher, Von Kampher in Trinity Blood, Hayashimizu in Full Metal Panic Fummofu, Nakamaru in Maburaho, and many more. As an ADR director of ADV Films, he has worked on The Nerima Daikon Brothers, Xenosaga: The Animation, and Magikano.
Color Theory for Anime Artists
Presented by the Comiku Girls
Why does everyone say skin tones "have a lot of blue in them"? Red and blue make purple but did you know red and green can make brick red? More than just a color wheel, this panel will talk about how to use color to help define a focal point in a piece using contrast and tone.
Conference Feedback
With Providence Anime Conference Staff
Let the staff of Providence Anime Conference know what you liked about the event. Participate in a discussion of what can be improved and what we have learned from the world's first 21+ anime convention.
Convention Essentials
Presented by Bill Todd
New to the convention experience? Having trouble avoiding the pitfalls of attending a convention? Not to worry, experienced con-goers at your service. Learn about what you should research before you leave your house and what you need to know when you get to the convention to make the convention a truly enjoyable experience.
Cosplay Props, Flutes, and How Not to Build a Robot
Presented by R. "Sketch" Scholz
They say that Sketch is one motherf-SHUT YO' MOUTH! Just talkin' about Sketch! And we can dig it. Talk shop with the master of cosplay props. If you're foxy, he may even draw for you. He's a complicated man.
Couples in Fandom and Industry
Presented by Adam Sheehan and Tristen Citrine
Mr. Sheehan and Ms. Citrine have quite an interesting relationship -- both have the pleasure (pain?) of calling anime both fandom and work. Friendly arguments abound about the series that sell, the ones that make us squee, and even tracking what the cosplayers will latch onto. What's it like to watch dubs when many of the voice actors are people you like to go out drinking with? How does all this flavor a romantic relationship? These two will share stories of what it's like to view the genre through the eyes of businesspeople as well as nerds.
Death Note - The Psychology of Solipsism
Presented by Iris "Rakshar" Gordon
A psychological analysis of character personality and behavior from both clinical and research perspectives, and overview of human aggression as depicted in the series. Discover just how real Death Note truly is.
Dick & Buster's Hentai Dubbing Extravaganza
Presented by Dick Tripwire
Do YOU have what it takes to dub some hardcore Hentai? If you think so, time to put your money where your tentacles are and come on down to Dick & Buster's Hentai Dubbing Extravaganza! Join the undisputed king & queen of the hentai dubbing business, Dick Tripwire and Buster Highman, for a hilarious fun filled show and watch some brave fans come on up and strut their stuff as hentai dub superstars. Enjoy some all new scenes added for this year's show - as well as exclusive scenes from the upcoming sequel to the hit mockumentary Future Tentactle Demon Hell Beast Part 6: The Final Battle! Live Hentai Anime Music Videos! Audience participation extremely encouraged! So come on down and rock out with your cock out, or just hang out with your wang out and this year's Dick & Buster's Hentai Dubbing Extravaganza - and remember to check your shame at the door.
Do Anime Conventions Have a Future?
Presented by Kevin McKeever
Oil is over $100 USD per barrel, gas is over $3 USD per gallon, airlines are raising fares and cutting services, inflation is on the rise, the economy is slowing, and disposable income is on the decline. Can anime conventions, as we know them today, survive -- let alone grow -- in this environment? Join, Robotech.com's head of marketing, Kevin McKeever, for an in depth look at these issues and the surprising answer.
Dubs that Time Forgot
Presented by Mike Toole
Anime has been Japan's cultural export since 1961. While some classics endure, decades of English-language anime have faded from the spotlight. Here's a chance to rediscover some of these lost classics, take in some truly odd features and unsold pilots, and laugh at crazy cartoons we didn't get to see the first time around.
The Fans Fucking Scare Me
Presented by Adam Sheehan
Adam Sheehan has been on the road and across the country for the over seven years deep in the heart of fandom. From fans who strip while driving to fans who have punched out their best friend for a free shirt, he's seen it all. In this panel, he will share some of the more fun -- and quite insane -- stories collected over the years.
Final Fantasy: 20 Years and Counting
Presented by Elizabeth O'Malley and Patrick O'Malley
For over 20 years, Final Fantasy has been one of the most influential video games out there, and not just in RPGs. Come discuss all the games of the series, the best and the worst, with fellow fans. A number of topics will be discussed including common themes, music, art, and the future of the series.
Fujoshi Librarian: Yaoi, the Comics Industry, and Libraries
Presented by Robin Brenner
Yaoi in libraries!? If you request it, we'll get it! Yaoi has become one of the biggest subgenres of manga, demonstrating the strong female voice in the manga market alongside the constant "girls read manga!" refrain in the headlines. It can also, however, be an expensive habit. Join Robin Brenner to discuss the genre, the current yaoi market, and how to give your wallet a break by requesting manga at your local library -- including josei and yaoi!
Fullmetal Alchemist - The Symbolism of Alchemy
Presented by Iris "Rakshar" Gordon
The investigation of alchemical constructs and symbols used within the series and their meanings. Explore the origins, ideals, characters and plot behind the practice from historical, psychological, and mythological perspectives. Understand the origin, creation and ideal behind the philosopher's stone, and how one series embodies the meaning of alchemy.
FUNimation Entertainment
Presented by Adam Sheehan
FUNimation is known for acquiring top-rated anime series from Japan and is a market share leader for home video sales of anime in the United States. Adam Sheehan, Senior Events Manager for FUNimation, will discuss FUNimation's upcoming plans in the anime industry.
Got Yaoi?
Presented by Cyn
Leave your prejudice at the door, and come and join one of the Boys Next Door babes for a rollicking trip through yaoi-land. Perversions will abound with games, prizes and more. Learn about the history of the genre, what's due to be released over here and what's good and what to avoid in the world of boy porn.
History of Manga and Anime
Presented by Robin Brenner
While a lot of folks are die-hard manga fans today, ever wonder just where all of this came from? Join Robin Brenner to discover the roots of manga and anime, where both art forms came from, and why they developed into the media we love today.
How I Got Into the Anime Industry
Presented by Kevin McKeever
How did one person go from a small town in Connecticut to working on one of the world's best known anime franchises? Here is where you will find out.
Hunting the Forest Spirit: Mythology in Anime
Presented by Sarah Hodge-Wetherbe
From Miyazaki to Princess Tutu, anime incorporates mythos and folklore from both Japan and all over the world. Join paralibrarian Sarah Hodge-Wetherbe as we explore how this new art form spins ancient stories.
Identifying Bootlegs
Presented by Christian Daly
It's frequently very difficult to tell the difference between legit anime merchandise and bootlegs. This panel, hosted by our intrepid chairman, is aimed at helping everyone learn a bit about how to identify bootlegs, counterfeits, and the like and avoid getting completely ripped off.
Introduction to Independent Filmmaking
Presented by Kevin McKeever
Join industry veteran Kevin McKeever as he shows you the ins and outs of getting a career started in the world of independent filmmaking.
Introductory Mixology and Room-Party Basics for the Discerning Adult Con-Goer
Presented by Jeni Duschak
The social aspect of anime cons is often what keeps many of us Older Otaku coming back to these events year after year. Even though we may not be as inclined to sit in a video room as we once were, the room parties that happen in the evenings can certainly make up a cornerstone of our con experience. This panel focuses on the basics of how to throw a room party that will keep both your guests (AND the hotel staff) happy.
Learn the basics of bartending, keeping your bar stocked, simple drink recipes, setting up your party space, keeping control of your party, and making sure everyone has a great time. Whether you are planning a gathering for a small group of friends in your hotel room, or a large open-invite event in the Presidential Suite, these simple pointers will help you throw a party that your people will be sure to remember... for all of the RIGHT reasons!
Kimono & Yukata
Presented by the Comiku Girls
A demonstration of how to properly put on Kimono and Yukata, including how to tie the obi. In addition, we will discuss the differences between Kimono and Yukata and Japanese ideals of beauty. We will talk about how to make your own yukata, including where to find patterns and fabric choices. Li Izumi studied how to properly put on a Kimono (a nearly hour long process) in Akita, Japan. Akiko Meigetsu and Li Izumi have sewn their own Yukata and Kimono.
Life Drawing for Anime Artists
Presented by the Comiku Girls
Everyone says "draw from life", but not everyone has access to life drawing classes. This panel gives anime artists the opportunity to draw from a live model as we discuss figure drawing techniques such as gesture drawings and sketching techniques. Participants should bring their own drawing materials.
Mock Combat for Cosplay
Presented by Christopher Ayres
Do you want to give your cosplay scene a little something extra? Ever wanted to look like you are beating the life out of your friends and be able to do it in a safe way so that no one gets hurt? Come join voice actor, ADR director and veteran fight director, Christopher Ayres for this on-your-feet workshop where you will learn tricks and techniques to add to your cosplay. This workshop is not only for cosplayers, but for anyone interested in learning the basics of stage combat.
Nandeyanen!: The Finer Points of Owari Comedy
Presented by Geoffrey Tebbetts
A metal tub falling on one's head. Anywhere else, and it's a lawsuit waiting to happen, but in Japan that's comedy gold, man. Whether it be the classic two-man manzai set-up, the storytelling of a rakugo performer, or the well-documented misfortunes of Japanese gameshow participants, comedy has been a staple of Japanese entertainment. This panel will try to explain just what the heck we're all laughing at!
Neon Genesis Evangelion - The Man in the Machine
Presented by Iris "Rakshar" Gordon
Psychology of the self and self-realization as depicted within the series. Understand the pathology and the remission of identity crisis from several psychological perspectives as personified within the characters and plot of one of anime's most classic and groundbreaking mecha tales. (No previous knowledge of psychology required.)
The New Wave: Women, Manga, and Where We Stand
Presented by Robin Brenner and Sarah Hodge-Wetherbe
Newsflash: teen girls read manga! The wider media still seems to be realizing that female readers are a huge part of the boom in the manga market, but what about as those teen girls grow up, and the adult women who are fans now? The stereotypical manga and anime fan as long been the otaku, always male, but as women continue contributing to fandom, the professional industry, and push for recognition in the comics industry and beyond, how do we make our voices heard? This panel will discuss the ins and outs of women and manga fandom, the state of female fans within and without the manga community, and just where we might go from here in supporting and advocating for the media we love.
On the Road with Steve Lin
Presented by Steve Lin (CEO, Anime Pavilion) and friends
Steve Lin is the man behind the Anime Pavilion table in the Dealers' Room of many conventions across the country. With that kind of job, you meet a lot of people and have a lot of crazy adventures. Join Steve and friends to hear some road stories and find out a bit about what goes on to bring all sorts of things to conventions.
Robotech: Past, Present and Future
Presented by Kevin McKeever
Kevin McKeever, head of marketing for Harmony Gold, covers the history of the animated series that introduced a generation to anime and discusses upcoming new releases in the wake of the announcement of the live action feature film.
Samurai, Yakuza, and Schoolgirls: Stereotypes and the Problems of Promoting and Collecting Manga in Libraries and Schools
Presented by Robin Brenner
One of the hardest things to contend with, as a manga and anime fan, is the preconceptions people have: that they're full of sex and violence, that they're not "real" reading, and that they're going to rot your brain. Join local librarian Robin Brenner to discuss how to convince your local library or school that manga is a quality, exciting, and necessary addition to any collection. Gain tips on how to best educate everyone, from doubting librarians to skeptical parents, on the wonders of manga.
School of Zombie: Class is in Session
Presented by Jennachan, Nikki Gingerelli, and Nick Jabour
In this panel we invite you into a world of well death. The undead walks, crawl, and even run. It is up to you if you will live and perhaps take a few of the undead out along the way. We invite you to see the different species of zombies that have evolved over the years in folk lore, books, and media in general, and how to battle each one of them in their own special way. We'll show you which weapons you as a civilian are best equipped to use, and what key items you will need in order to survive wave after wave of attacks from the undead. Make no mistake one attack is usually not the end of it. This training session will additionally let those of you know what NOT to do when confronted with the putrid walking undead. So do join us in this survival training panel at PAC 2008 it may just save your life.
She Might Not Be Into Meowth: Dating Tips for Otaku
Hosted by Sarah Hodge-Wetherbe, Dating Guru Columnist for Soulgeek.com
Love is complicated, and its even more complicated in the world of various fandoms. Join relationship columnist Sarah Hodge-Wetherbe of Soulgeek.com, for a discussion on love and relationships in the fandom world. Sarah will talk about some of the questions she's written about, and take more from participants. Ask her advice or offer your own!
State of the Industry
Presented by Chris Ayres, Chris Beveridge, Kevin McKeever, Adam Sheehan, Tom Wayland, David Williams
The anime industry has obviously changed since we were all kids. Get insight from the insiders, hear about how it got where it is and where it could go from here.
Totally Lame Anime
Presented by Neil Nadelman
When he's not busy travelling to exotic locales overseas with his super best friend Karl Rove, millionaire playboy anime translator Neil Nadelman likes to call up his friends and show them the horrible DVDs that he finds at the dollar store. At this friendship-simulation panel, you can pretend that you're Neil's friend and watch the amazing garbage that he's managed to dig up. Virtual ride on his jet ski not included.
Tristen Citrine Cosplay Extravaganza
Presented by Tristen Citrine
Tristen Citrine, the Internet's most bloved sexy Toad cosplayer, is always happy to share construction tips and tricks, makeup advice, candid life tales, and pretty much anything else under the sun. Do you need someone to help you solve a physics problem? Ask Tristen Citrine! Need a quote on homeowners' insurance? She can help! Are you wondering what that mole on your neck is about? Tristen Citrine knows, she's a doctor!*
* note: she isn't.
The Vile Spectre of Moe
Presented by Christian Daly
Lt. Yamamoto of Irresponsible Captain Tylor warns us, "the enemy is within." An otaku's worst enemy is himself. His current drug of choice, the vile spectre of moe, is possibly the most insidious and addictive to date. Explore the origins of this movement and learn how you can protect yourself and your family. (Sense of humor is recommended.)
What? Why? Hentai!
Presented by Amber Frazier "The Hentai Pirate", James Dion, and Brian Darby
Finally a hentai panel for adults! Here we will discuss all the fantastic kinks we see in hentai, yaoi and yuri today, as well as learn about the history of hentai, and some key legal and cultural differences between Japan and the US. All you need to enjoy this panel is some healthy curiosity and an open mind.
When Otaku Attack: The Dark Side of Fandom
Presented by Sarah Hodge-Wetherbe
The world of anime fandom can be a wonderful place. Unfortunately, we all know it has a darker side. From online cyber-bullies, to elitists, to con stalkers, there are many pitfalls waiting for the unprepared- especially the youngest fans. This panel will talk about some of these dangers, and what we can do as fans to make the world of anime fandom safer for everyone.
Witch Hunter Robin - The Hero's Tale
Presented by Iris "Rakshar" Gordon
A mythological overview of the mono-myth and personality transformation as embodied in the series. Topics will include characters, plot and symbols investigated from anthropological, psychological and sociological perspectives. Take a comparative mythological approach to investigating one of the most profound series to date, and discover the power behind the "modern myth".
Written Japanese
Presented by the Comiku Girls
An introduction to the Japanese written language, including the differences between the three main writing systems, its history and development from its Chinese origins. After the initial discussion, participants will have the opportunity to ask questions about the Japanese written language.