Panel Programming

Posted Mon, 08/08/2011 - 12:12 by bloo09

Here you will find updates about Anime Central’s Panel Programming. From attendee hosted panels, guest offered panels, and ACen hosted panels along with some workshops. We will be posting them as we get them so check back often!

There are a few new things coming for ACen’s 15th Anniversary!

We have a new track of programming called Children’s Panels for ages 14 and under. We will be hosting fun panels and interactive workshops to get our younger attendance excited and involved! We’ve already contacted professional event groups about bringing in some special treats for the kids!

More workshops! This year we’ll be pushing for many more workshops to get our attendance involved. So far we have KPOP panels, Poi, Belly Dancing, Yoga, Pepakura, Fusion/Perler bead fun AND even some workshops hosted by Bristol Renaissance Faire on how to sew, caring for your wig, and other fun things!

We’ve recently (as of Feb 3rd) officially added more event space! Panels is now in both the Hyatt and Double Tree. We added space to ensure that our room sizes would be appropriate for our attendance, and to accommodate the larger amount of panels hosted this year.

Panel Programming’s office will be located in the basement of the Hyatt in the Gatwick room and be open to our attendees. Every year we hear that some one couldn’t find a panel and they couldn’t find where it was after asking multiple people. Now you can stop by our office and we can help you find it directly!

For Panelists

Join our Panel Programming email mailing list!
Get updates on policies, changes, and everything we think you’ll need to know when hosting a panel at Anime Central. Apply to join at the following link! Click Here

Panel Descriptions

“Who Am I?” Anime Guessing Game! *Heathrow A-B Saturday 8:00pm – 9:15pm

This is that guessing game where you join a team themed after the anime you are most familiar with. Audience volunteers will have to use “yes” or “no” questions to determine the anime identity their team chose for them.

Academy of Horror: Villainy 101 *Vienna Friday 5:45pm – 6:45pm

Learn how to be a great villain. Study from the master villains of literature, anime, and movies. Have fun with being evil!

Adaptations Across Countries *Charles De Gaulle Saturday 12:00pm – 2:00pm

A long time ago, studios from different countries would buy the rights to some popular shows and change them so drastically they would scar the fandom forever. Come see how America made Street Fighter delicious, and how Japan gave Spiderman a giant robot, among others!

Ah! My Goddess *Charles De Gaulle Saturday 9:30am – 12:00pm

Round-table discussion of the various stories, characters, and incarnations of the series. All fans welcome, from casual to veteran. Come join our trivia contest for a chance to win prizes.

An Otaku’s Guide to the Awkward World of Dating *Florence Sunday 10:30am – 1:00pm

Your favorite ladies-of-love have returned! We’re changing the game with a “hands on” approach. Bare it all in our interactive lecture and use what you’ve learned at our mixer! You’ll laugh, cry, and might meet your otaku dream date, but remember, we’re not miracle workers.

Anime Name That Tune *Narita A-B Friday 9:15pm – 11:15pm

Think you know anime music? Prove it! Anime Name that Tune presented to you by the Speed Wagon Foundation! We invite you to come and compete against your fellow Anime Music otaku for prizes!

Anime Name That Tune *Vienna Saturday 12:00am – 2:00am

Think you know anime music? Prove it! Anime Name that Tune presented to you by the Speed Wagon Foundation! We invite you to come and compete against your fellow Anime Music otaku for prizes!

Anime: The Evolution of a Fandom *Florence Sunday 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Looking back on it’s history, anime has changed. We shape the culture to our own liking, moving the industry to create and bring us what we all enjoy. How we do this (as well as the industry) impacts us from the Golden age to it’s future.

Anzai Nobuyuki *DaVinci A-B Friday 6:15pm – 7:15pm

What do ninjas, robots, and otaku have in common? Come on by and enter the crazy world of this comic artist!

Arch Nemeses: Anime Villains *Paris Friday 1:00pm – 3:00pm

Enjoy being evil? Want to learn more about evil? Then come discuss the best of the worst anime can offer – anime villains! Learn all about new villains, old ones, and weird ones. Learn interesting villain facts, enter our evil laugh contest and win prizes from an evil scheme game show, complete with evil prizes!

Are You Smarter than an Otaku? *London Friday 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Based on the game show “Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader”, here you can challenge yourself on your own knowledge. But instead of testing your knowledge of science or geography, you will be testing yourself on your knowledge of anime! Come join us for a fun, exciting time and find out if you are smarter than an otaku!

Better Cosplay Photos *LAX A-B Friday 3:30pm – 4:30pm

Learn to take better cosplay photos using what already have. Whether you shoot with a traditional camera or a SLR, this session is for you! Topics will include lighting, poses, locations, camera settings, and bringing out your potential as a cosplay photographer.

Big Sword Panel This Time Its Anime *International DEF Friday 6:00pm – 8:00pm

We are service recalled humor from People’s Republic of China. Direct savings for consumer You! IT’S JAPAN! Did you doubt Big Sword Style? Now only to face consciences of doubt. This year bring big prizes from capital of animations! Hear Sumo? Now see it! Games from fabulous land of splendor!

Burn All the Witches *Vienna Friday 8:00pm – 9:45pm

Puella Magi Madoka Magica is a phenomenal dark magical girl show that has gained immense popularity around the world. If you want to learn more about the various references made and discuss the deeper themes of the series, this is the panel for you. Please note this panel will contain spoilers.

Carpe DM: Gamemastery for Tabletop RPGs *London Sunday 9:00am – 11:00am

Returning for its fourth year! Join DC from Panda Rage Productions as he discusses the rewards and challenges of life behind the DM’s screen. Topics include the roles of GM, the value of preparation, and ways to up your game! Tips, tricks, tactics, and tales will be shared!

CLAMP *Paris Sunday 9:30am – 10:30am

The manga group of 4 ladies known for their fantastic tales and beautiful art have a lot more to offer than you might think. Learn and discuss more of their 20 year history.

Competitive Fighting Games *DaVinci A-B Saturday 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Ever wanted the satisfying feeling of beating someone down in a fighting game tournament? We’ll discuss the latest fighters out now and coming soon, sharing our own tournament tips and stories along the way. Even if you’re just a casual fighting game fan, you’ll find something here for you.

Con Survival 101 *London Friday 11:00am – 12:00pm

First convention? Have no idea about how things go at conventions? Worried about that weird smell coming from the game room? Have no fear, we will address all questions and tips for first time con goers about what happens at these events.

Cosplay on a Shoestring *London Friday 12:00pm – 1:00pm

For those who want to make cosplay but don’t have the skills, learn from other amateur cosplayers just how to do cosplay on a strict budget with little skill!

Cosplay Speed Dating *LAX A-B Saturday 5:45pm – 7:45pm

Ever wonder what it would be like to date your favorite anime/manga/videogame characters? Now is your chance at our panel! Feel as if you’re socially awkard? Not a problem! We’ll be giving you very random topics every couple of minutes to help you get going! What are you waiting for?

Cowboys in Giant Robots: America in Anime II *Florence Friday 3:00pm – 4:00pm

Anime has an interesting view of the good ol’ USA. Whether its anime fangirls attending a convention in Japan, a football team named the NASA Aliens, or a giant boxing-surfer-cowboy mecha— we’ll make you WISH America was this awesome. All new material for ACen 2011!

Crack That Whip: Castlevania *Paris Saturday 7:00pm – 8:00pm

A video game series spanning 25 years, Castlevania has enchanted with its classic tale of Vampire Killer vs. Dracula. We welcome anyone well versed in the lore or fresh blood new to the series.

Creating Your Comic/Manga Part I *Florence Friday 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Two-time Harvey Award nominated husband-and-wife comic creators Comfort Love and Adam Withers teach you how to create your own comic/manga in a three part series covering 1) Concepting, Writing, and Marketing Your Story 2) Drawing a Story, and 3) Digital Color and Lettering.

Creating Your Comic/Manga Part II *Florence Saturday 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Creating Your Comic/Manga Part III *Florence Sunday 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Death Note Mafia *Paris Saturday 10:00pm – 2:00am

Death Note characters take the roles of this interpretation of the party game, where you must work with a team who could betray you at any time. Prior knowledge of the game and the series is not necessary. Can the investigators defeat Kira without falling prey to the Death Note?

Deculture! A Macross Panel *Paris Saturday 10:00am – 11:30am

Do you remember love? Join us this year in an overview of Super Dimension Fortress Macross and its universe of aliens, space travel, idol singers, romance, and Protoculture! We’ll discuss all the titles, from Super Dimension Fortress Macross to Macross Frontier: Wings of Goodbye. Listen to my song!

Devil May Cry Saga *Narita A-B Friday 7:15pm – 9:15pm

Come explore the history of the best and most stylish action game around: Devil May Cry! Join us in discussing the games, books/manga, anime, and we will deeply discuss the controversy of the upcoming title: DmC. All that, plus pizza and strawberry sundaes!!! Let’s rock baby!!!

Dressing It Up To Be Ripped Off *DaVinci A-B Friday 8:45pm – 11:45pm

18+ Learn how to dress up your yaoi or hentai characters in provocative costumes that are fun to rip off! Bishounen are always best just before the “reveal.” Draw your own lewd creations for an in-panel show! No talent needed – just think like a perv.

Dysfunctional Aspects of the Otaku Subculture *Paris Saturday 9:00am – 10:00am

Join us for a sociological investigation into some dysfunctional aspects of Japans Otaku subculture. In this hour we will take a look at some issues such as 2d girl complexes and NEETS and how these play into other social problems in Japan today.

Eco-Friendly Cosplay *LAX A-B Saturday 9:00pm – 10:00pm

Turn your cosplay hobby green with veteran cosplayer, Anne Marie Chua Lee of RedStar Costumes! Learn about environmental impact of the textile industry and how you can reduce it. Find out what materials are sustainable, where to buy them, and tips on how to reduce and recycle costume waste.

End of “The World” – The Secrets of .hack! *International DEF Saturday 8:15pm – 9:30pm

Continuing from “Welcome to ‘The World’”, this panel provides a deeper look into the world of .hack. What’s the deal with Sora and Haseo? Where did Aura come from and where did she go? These and other mysteries will be solved! Everyone interested in this thought-provoking series are welcome!

Everyone in Your Party Has Died: Let’s Play Oregon Trail! *Rosemont Friday 8:45pm – 11:00pm

It’s late, you missed the masquerade, and you’ve exhausted the video room. What’s a con-goer to do? Ford the river and kill your oxen in a crazy round of communal, democratic Oregon Trail! We’ve got prizes and many ways to make this a trip to the Northwest unlike any other.

Everything Pokemon *Rosemont Saturday 9:00pm – 10:00pm

We talk about Pokemon, answer a lot of questions, and cover stuff about the games and anime. This will mainly talk about the anime in general and touches up on the games.

Fairy Tail: Everyone is Gerard *Florence Sunday 9:30am – 10:30am

A discussion of Hiro Mashima’s popular manga Fairy Tail. Where everyone is Gerard!

Fanfiction Panel *Vienna Saturday 10:30am – 12:00pm

Have you ever wondered about the road not taken by your favorite anime? Perhaps you want to add your own twist to your favorite shows. Our mixture of old hands and new faces are here to help! We may not know all the answers, but we’ll have a fun discussion!

FanFiction: Avoiding the Cliched *Florence Saturday 5:15pm – 7:15pm

Tired of seeing FanFiction that is all the same? Want to make yours standout? Come see what FanFiction can be with hard work and a little dedication!

Fight the Stigma : Prevent Bullying in Anime Clubs *Heathrow A-B Friday 4:00pm – 5:00pm

Do you get picked on for being a nerd? Are you afraid to admit your love of Anime because of the reactions of others? Fear no more! Come learn how to deal with the bullies and rise above!

Final Fantasy MMORPG *Vienna Saturday 5:00pm – 8:00pm

Square Enix runs two major MMORPGs – Final Fantasy XI, celebrating its 10th anniversary soon. Final Fantasy XIV, and will undergo a dramatic reboot in 2012. This panel is for the celebration of both games!

Furry Costume Construction and Performance *Heathrow A-B Saturday 11:00am – 12:00pm

Furry? Definitely. There’s a lot that goes into making fursuits and costumes! Stop on by and see how everything comes together. This panel will cover basic patterns, construction techniques, materials, and finishing effects. We’ll also go over some public performance basics, best practices, and tips from some very experienced performers!

Ghost hunting in Japan & the United States *DaVinci A-B Friday 5:00pm – 6:15pm

Learn about how ghost hunting in the United States & Japan differs, both the real life ghost hunting actually practiced by investigators and the fictional ghost hunting seen in shows like “The Real Ghostbusters” and anime like “Ghost Hunt”.

Go Nagai’s Legacy *LAX A-B Friday 12:00am – 1:00am

Do you like giant robots? Horrifying demons and violence? Then Go Nagai, father of series such as Mazinger Z and Cutie Honey, is for you! Come learn about the man, his groundbreaking works, and their influences.

Gore Effects *Heathrow A-B Friday 2:00pm – 3:00pm

What to learn how to do make up for zombies or realistic gore effects? This panel will teach basic trauma gore with make up, including: bruises, skin gash, fake blood and effects with latex. There will be time at the end for questions.

Growing up Lolita *Vienna Sunday 9:45am – 10:45am

This panel explains the true basics of the Japanese fashion: Lolita. Going over topics such as; Divisions of lolita, anatomy of an outfit, history of lolita, and how to make some of your own basics at home.

Gundam Fight! AU Mode *Paris Saturday 3:00pm – 4:00pm

An all out Gundam Trivia panel involving everything related to the Alternate Universe of Gundam. Contestants will be pulled from the audience to battle it out for prizes.

Gundam Fight! UC Mode *Paris Friday 5:00pm – 6:00pm

An all out Gundam Trivia panel where contestants compete vs each other in Universal Century trivia. Plenty of Prizes to give out.

GunDam Yo Ass is Finel! Endless Waltz Edition! *DaVinci A-B Saturday 3:00pm – 5:00pm

Do pick-up lines work? Need ideas for a first date? Have a question about a current relationship? This panel is for you! We had such a great panel last year that we’re back again to talk about all things related to dating in a subculture context! All over 18 are welcome!

Halo: You Picked a Heck of a Day to Join *DaVinci A-B Saturday 9:30am – 11:30am

A talk about the extended Halo universe: How it relates to the games, and to the Halo Legends anime. We will also look into game strategies and the upcoming release of Halo 4.

Hellsing Hentai: After Dark *International DEF Friday 11:00pm – 12:15am

Most of Hellsing’s characters are lifted (often directly, without even a name change or face-lift) from Hirano’s earlier hentai works. Join in the fun as we take a look at some of these rare, hard-to-find pieces – Mystery Science Theater style, of course! Funny, rowdy hecklers are welcome!

Hellsing: Behind the Blood *Paris Friday 9:00pm – 10:15pm

Hellsing is more than just a fun blood fest. There are layers of subtext lost on the casual fan, and doubly lost on the casual English-speaking fan. Did you know Rip’s entire storyline was taken from the German opera she sings? No? No worries! We will take you Behind the Blood.

Help! I’ve Been Caught In A Trap! *Florence Saturday 9:15pm – 10:30pm

Test your knowledge on traps, reverse traps and more in this fun tournament! So put your thinking cap on and put your knowledge to the test! But be careful; you might be caught in a trap! You’ll laugh, cry or even throw up but hey, you might get a prize.

Henshin! A Recent History of Tokusatsu *Florence Friday 6:00pm – 8:00pm

There are certain heroes of Japan who take it upon themselves or are chosen to fight enemies who seek to invade the earth. Using metal, spandex, leather, or a combination of suits, these people ride motorcycles, summon big robots or even are advised by talking rings to fight. Come learn all about these heroes!

Hentai Hell *International DEF Friday 1:15am – 3:15am

Inspired by the genius of Anime Hell, come join the guys from The Bad Anime Panel as they take you on a ride through the realm of strange and bizarre pornography and erotica from around the world!

How (Not) to Write a Lemon *DaVinci A-B Friday 11:45pm – 1:45am

Want to write fantastic adult FanFiction? Join us to find out what not to do in creating your lemony masterpieces. Laugh, groan, cringe, and learn from the worst of the worst (and maybe hear from some of the best as well). Want more bad euphemisms? We’ve got ‘em!

How to be an Anime Reviewer *Narita A-B Friday 4:00pm – 5:15pm

Want to be an online anime reviewer? Then this is where you’ll want to be! We will be offering tips, tricks, and suggestions to become an online reviewer. As well as recommending: websites, software, the best way to put yourself out there, creating your own style and many other ways to become an online anime reviewer.

How to Convert Your Friends Into Steampunk *LAX A-B Saturday 3:15pm – 4:30pm

It’s hard to man an airship singlehandedly, but what if your friends don’t have a clue what Steampunk is? It’s time to educate them and assimilate them into the perfect Steampunk Crew! Don’t know how? We can fix that. They’ll never know what hit them!

How to Run an Anime Club *Florence Friday 4:00pm – 6:00pm

The JAC team returns once again for another town-hall-style discussion on anime clubs. Be it high school, college, community or otherwise, we’re here to help. Bring your ideas, experiences and an open mind.

In Soviet ACen, Chumps Stump YOU! Part Dva! *DaVinci A-B Saturday 6:30pm – 7:45pm

Privjet, Comrades! We’re The Chumps and we’re here to make you rage. Prove your anime/manga/music/video game knowledge and you can win our stockpile of stuff that we were saving for the war. Come and join us! Let the trivia blow your mind.

Intro to Decoden *Heathrow A-B Saturday 4:30pm – 6:00pm

Decoden is a popular hobby in Japan with a strong following here in the states. In this panel, you will learn different techniques and actually deco a treat for yourself that you get to keep.

Intro to Lolita *Florence Friday 11:00am – 12:00pm

This is a panel for beginning Lolita only! Those who do not know or want to know more about how to go about buying their first outfit, the iron clad rules, and what to do when people approach you when out and about.

Introduction to Light Novels *Charles De Gaulle Saturday 3:15pm – 4:15pm

What do Slayers, Haruhi & Durarara! all have in common? They are all based on Light Novels, a growing force in the Anime industry. Come and learn about how some of your favorite titles got their start and discover some new favorites.

It’s a Rumic World *Narita A-B Friday 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Rumiko Takahashi remains one of Japan’s best known manga authors. With works spanning over 30 years such as Urusei Yatsura, Ranma 1/2, Inu-yasha and her newest, RIN-NE. We’ll compare manga to anime, series to series, and character to character as we delve into Takahashi’s popular works.

It’s Raining Wolves *Florence Friday 9:00pm – 10:00pm

A panel discussion for fans of Wolf’s Rain. Come in costume for an hour of wolfy fun. Bring plush wolves if you have them. Just a fun little panel.

J-rock Heaven Part 1 *Florence Saturday 3:15pm – 4:15pm

Interested in Japanese rock music? Ready to go beyond anime openings? Looking to find some new bands to listen to? Come join the guys from the Monochrome-Heaven.com J-rock Forum. Have fun and expand your musical tastes!

J-rock Heaven Part 2 *Florence Saturday 4:15pm – 5:15pm

Can’t get enough of Japanese rock? The guys from the Monochrome-Heaven.com J-rock Forum will guide you down the path to more obscure and awesome bands and have fun doing it!

Japan in 3 Dimensions *Charles De Gaulle Saturday 4:15pm – 6:15pm

Looking for some extra depth in your Japanese TV? Did you ever wonder what it would be like to see Ouran HSHC or Hana Kimi with real people? Why not try live action, where your characters come in 3D! Join us for an introduction to J-dramas!

Japanese Exploitation and B-Movies *DaVinci A-B Sunday 11:00am – 12:45pm

Have you ever thought a movie was so bad or over the top it was hilarious? Whether you do or don’t, come out to watch us talk about various directors from Japan you may or may not know and learn about their contributions to our favorite styles of film making.

Japanese Folklore *Rosemont Sunday 12:00pm – 1:00pm

Come here stories variety of Japanese Myths and legends and how they get used in popular anime. We’ll talk about Shinigami and Youkai, tengu and kappa!

Japanese Legend + Culture in Anime & Media *Florence Saturday 9:00am – 11:00am

Ever wondered at the references and back story in your favorite anime & games? Join us for a crash course in Japanese legend and culture and how they tie in! We’ll cover everything from kami to Gundam as well as festivals to strange creatures. Don’t miss the fun, knowledge, and chance at prizes!

Jrock And Pop: It’s More Than a Theme Song *LAX A-B Friday 4:45pm – 6:00pm

Have a favorite theme song? See what else the artist produces! This panel introduces audiences different venues in which musicians appear. Video games, dramas, community work, foreign films, etc… If you don’t know where to buy music foreign music, we’ll help with that too!

Jrockrevolution, Keeping You Connected! *Florence Saturday 11:00am – 12:00pm

This is an opportunity for fans to get together and hear some of the latest news and upcoming events from JRR first hand. Audiences will have opportunities to give feedback about JRR and offer input for future events. Join us to find out how to be part of JRR and more!

Katamari Otaku 101 *LAX A-B Saturday 4:30pm – 5:45pm

Join the antics of this comedy duo as they go over the trials, tribulations, and controversial topics of being an otaku in American society today. All while they are under the iron fist of I.T. Domo-kun! Come participate in Cosplay Bingo for fabulous prizes!

Kawaii Kokoii Crafts *Heathrow A-B Sunday 11:00am – 1:00pm

Creating a fun atmosphere for children to create crafts to remember their ACen experience. We will be creating origami photo frames, dressing the children up in Japanese costumes, and taking photos for the frame.

Learn How to Dj With Your Soap Bubble Djs! *Vienna Friday 12:45pm – 2:45pm

The Soap Bubble DJs will be teaching all the essentials needed to get started in DJing. Attendees will be taught the history of DJing, basic beat matching, remixing with Ableton, and various scratching techniques. Prizes will be given throughout the panel!

Let Me Tell You ‘Bout Homestuck *Narita A-B Friday 5:15pm – 6:15pm

This panel will center around the webcomic on mspaintadventures know as homestuck.

Making Anime Educational for Your Anime Club *Heathrow A-B Friday 3:00pm – 4:00pm

Come gather ideas and materials to use in your club to prove the educational worth of Anime! This panel will outline different educational topics that can be easily infused with the most popular anime titles out there today.

Master Plans Gone Wrong – Big Bad Buffoonery *DaVinci A-B Saturday 12:45pm – 1:45pm

If you were a super villain, how would you conquer the world? Would you exploit the hero’s weakness? Create a doomsday device? Use an army of minions? Or would you use noodles? After Power Ranger Pachinko and jinchuuriki hijinks, you’ll wonder how these villains could ever be considered dangerous!

Matsumoto 5555 *LAX A-B Friday 12:30pm – 1:30pm

From Galaxy Express 999, Yamato and Captain Harlock, Leiji Matsumoto has created a vast galaxy of works, even collaborating with Daft Punk. Learn and discuss about him and his titles.

Midnight Tarot *DaVinci A-B Saturday 11:45pm – 1:45am

This panel takes a closer look at the Magical Girl Journey and its relation to the tarot Major Arcana cards.

Murder Mystery *Heathrow A-B Friday 5:00pm – 6:15pm

Speed dating and murder mystery combination. Someone is dead, and the killers are loitering around. While guests intermingle with the opposite sex, they will determine who the killers are by asking questions, some based upon 3 clues that identify the murderers. At the end, numbers are exchanged with interested parties.

My Favorite Anime That No One’s Heard Of *LAX A-B Saturday 11:30am – 1:45pm

An open discussion panel dedicated to the lesser-known anime and manga (our essential guilty pleasures) that seem to go unnoticed next to more popular anime and manga in the same category and genre.

Name that RPG Tune *Vienna Saturday 11:00pm – 12:00am

Ever geek out over game music? Finally you can use that love of electronic music to win prizes! Come and join your fellow game music fans for a fun-filled hour of “Name That Tune”, RPG style!

Newton: Toughest SOB in Space *DaVinci A-B Friday 3:00pm – 5:00pm

From aliens, to spectres, to love intrests, to—What the heck are reapers anyway? Come in for some fan discussion of the Mass Effect universe and a nice glass of ryncol (not really). You might just learn why Newton is the toughest SOB in space.

Occult in Anime *DaVinci A-B Saturday 10:30pm – 11:30pm

A panel that spans the various genre of Anime and helps the audience identify the odd aspects of the Anime we love. From the Magical Girl Journey, to the released spirits from destroyed road side shrines.

One Piece Podcast *Paris Friday 6:15pm – 7:30pm

This is a panel about the acclaimed series One Piece from Shonen Jump and Toei Animation! Join the hosts of The One Piece Podcast as they take you through the series past and present. We go over the latest events and all the latest news concerning One Piece.

Osamu Tezuka *DaVinci A-B Friday 11:00am – 12:00pm

This panel is a celebration of Osamu Tezuka’s life and works. Astro Boy, Kimba the White Lion, Princess Knight, and Phoenix are a few works of his that paved the way for the anime and manga community we know today.

Pepakura Made Easy *Heathrow A-B Saturday 2:30pm – 4:30pm

The process of Pepakura (papercraft). How it starts out and how every cosplayer can benefit.

Pierce the Heavens With Your JUMP Gintaman! *DaVinci A-B Friday 1:30pm – 3:00pm

What do you mean no one cares about Gintama? Just because Viz signed the eviction notice and Sentai Filmworks stopped returning our calls doesn’t mean anything! Let Gin-san and co. fill you in on everything Gintama. Heck, you might even get to play Extreme Janken.

Plus sized Girls Dress to Impress *DaVinci A-B Saturday 9:00pm – 10:30pm

A discussion panel on anime fashions for the plus-sized ladies. We’ll celebrate curves and show how to dress in ways appropriate to the larger figure that still retains the wow factor. Without a costume becoming an oh-no disaster. Wear your own designs and show off!

Professor Layton and the Puzzling Panel *Narita A-B Saturday 11:00am – 12:30pm

An interactive panel in which teams of 5 will work together to gain points by solving logic puzzles. Teams will receive packets of riddles of varying difficulties. There will be 4 ten-minute rounds. The winning team will play a bonus round for a grand prize.

Prove Me Wrong *London Saturday 9:00am – 11:00am

Know a show is bad even when everyone loves it? Or that a series that everyone hates, does have good points? Come on by and tell us we’re wrong, or come up and tell us what you think and see what people say! Compelling arguments are rewarded!

RPGs That Don’t Start With Final Fantasy! *Florence Saturday 12:00am – 2:00am

An open discussion forum where we discuss great RPGs past and present. Audience participation encouraged! Will include various Name That RPG games as well.

Scott Pilgrim vs. Anime Central!!! *Paris Friday 7:30pm – 9:00pm

We’re going to discuss the comic, the film, the game, and the creator in this free-for-all dinner of supreme awesome with epicness as our garnish! Replenish your power gauge before showing up, because the bonus round is a little tough!

SFX Makeup: Wounds, Scars, and Zombies. *Heathrow A-B Saturday 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Create your own army of the undead to fulfill your evil schemes! Demonstrating several methods of applying various wound, scar, and horror effects as well as making and applying your own prosthetic pieces and masks on a budget. Including latex free methods.

SGLBT Otaku Unite! *Florence Friday 12:00pm – 2:00pm

SGLBT stands for Straight, Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transexual. This is an open discussion panel where fellow otaku can share stories, help support each other, and help make people feel better about who they are.

So you wanna be a Pokemon Master? *Narita A-B Friday 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Attendees, we choose you! Come share and discuss the all-time classic series that we’ve loved for over 15 years, Pokemon. We will discuss the TV series, video games, manga, trading cards, and anything else related to Pokemon. This year Ash, Misty, and Brock will be here to answer all of your questions!

Sports in Anime and Manga *Florence Saturday 7:15pm – 8:15pm

Discussion about anime where sports are a main focus of the show.

Stump the Chumps! Return of the Chumps! *DaVinci A-B Saturday 5:15pm – 6:30pm

I’ll bet you an arm and a leg that we know more about FMA than you do. “The Chumps” challenge you! Stump us in our most knowledgeable series, then perhaps you can walk off with some of our most “prized” possessions. We’re back!!!

Tales of Fanfiction Horror *Narita A-B Friday 12:00pm – 1:00pm

We’ve all read terrible things online that we just can’t un-see and I’ve been reading them longer than most. Please join me as I go through a few of the most horrifying things I’ve ever read in the world of Fan Fiction.

Teach Yourself Vocaloid in Less than a Day *LAX A-B Saturday 7:45pm – 9:00pm

Ever wanted to use Vocaloid software but you were totally lost on where to get started? We can help you get started in ten seconds flat!

The ACen Guys Present: Static Anime – Manga *International DEF Saturday 12:00am – 1:00am

You’ve watched anime, right? Well have you ever read it?! Well now you can, with the ACen Guys Manga Story Presentation Spectacular! Join us as we speak right to left, utilize heavy action lines, compare Anime & Manga, make jokes, and fight each other to the death in monotone 2D!

The Art of the Plushie *Florence Friday 8:00pm – 9:00pm

Beginner at plushie making? Interested? Not sure where to start? Anne Marie Chua Lee of RedStar Costumes will show you basic plushie-making techniques. Learn about patterns, materials, and look at an array of cute and simple examples.

The Bad Anime Panel *Florence Saturday 12:00pm – 2:00pm

It’s back! Come join us for our third year of making fun of the worst anime ever made. We’ve got plenty of new material, old favorites, and many more awesome (terrible) prizes to give away. So what are you waiting for, huh?

The Best thing I Ever Read *Narita A-B Friday 3:00pm – 4:00pm

Have you ever had a fan fiction you were laughing about days later and just couldn’t get out of your head? I have. Come share you favorite fan fiction with a group for friends and maybe find a new favorite fan fiction along the way.

The First Twilight: Umineko Game Board *Heathrow A-B Saturday 1:00pm – 2:30pm

A mystery game inspired by the “Umineko no Naku Koro ni” series. The host will give the audience a story from the perspective of magic. Then the audience will need to decipher it to determine who the criminal is based on the rules of the game board.

The Gainax Panel *Florence Saturday 10:30pm – 12:00am

Gainax is one of the most influential studios in anime. It has created some of the most well known series in Japan. If you wish to discover the information about the people and some of the most well known series in anime, this is the panel for you!

The Greatness of Osamu Dezaki *LAX A-B Sunday 12:00pm – 1:15pm

Anime director Osamu Dezaki passed away in 2011 after a 40 year career directing excellent titles such as Rose of Versailles, Golgo 13, Cobra, Clannad, and Black Jack. Come hear how his works influenced the American animation scene, watch some clips, and maybe answer some random trivia.

The Gundam Experience: Alternate Universe *International DEF Saturday 9:30pm – 11:45pm

In 1994, the Gundam franchise started doing yearly self contained stories intended to reach a newer, broader audience. From G-Gundam to the current show, Gundam AGE, join us as we discuss the ups and downs of the later contemporary shows in this gargantuan franchise!

The Gundam Experience: Universal Century *International DEF Friday 8:30pm – 10:30pm

Mobile Suit Gundam is perhaps the single most endearing mecha franchise in the world, and certainly one of the most well known anime titles of all time. But when did this gargantuan franchise begin? From 0079 to Victory, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of Gundam’s classic original timeline!

The Hired Gun of Japanese Cinema: Takashi Miike *LAX A-B Saturday 12:00am – 2:00am

This panel has two goals: Firstly to give an overview of Miike’s films, from Yakuza to Yatterman, and secondly to discuss their themes. This includes the use of gore, roles for women and the transgendered, and use of camera work, as well as nigh perpetually absurd twists!

The Influence of the Monkey King *LAX A-B Friday 11:30am – 12:30pm

This panel is meant to talk about the ancient Chinese Money King myth and the tremendous influence it has had on anime through the decades. We will be looking at clips from various titles and discussing them.

The Life And Times of Yoshiyuki Tomino *LAX A-B Saturday 9:30am – 11:30am

Yoshiyuki Tomino is well known as the creator of Gundam, but this panel isn’t about that! He did a lot of other things, like being a pizza and spaghetti cook. We’re going to talk about all the other anime this eccentric man wrote and directed.

The Manly Tournament *LAX A-B Friday 8:00pm – 10:00pm

Who is the manliest character in anime and video games? We want to know! Make or break the case for your favorite characters as we debate it out tournament style. Audience participation is encouraged as we take suggestions for finding who is the champion.

The Mecha : Love of Giant Robots *LAX A-B Friday 1:30pm – 3:30pm

A panel made for giant robot fans! Discussing different series and going over a history of this genre. Audience discussions as well! Stop by mecha lovers!

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya *Vienna Saturday 9:00am – 10:30am

Welcome back to the best Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya fan panel ever!! This year we come back with more series discussion, rumors circulating around, and movie discussion. All aliens, time travelers and espers are welcome! Q and A to follow!

Tokusatsu For Beginners *Charles De Gaulle Saturday 2:15pm – 3:15pm

Go Go Super Sentai! Never heard of Super Sentai? They’re the Japanese Power Rangers that started way back in 1975. Want to learn more about the Tokusatsu genre? Then come to the Tokusatsu Panel and find out the spin-offs and where you can start watching.

Tokusatsu Tropes *LAX A-B 9:30am – 11:00am

A fan panel for the veteran tokusatsu viewer. Come and discuss the common themes of the tokusatsu genre and make up a few of our own. Even if you’ve not seen a lot of the various shows, feel free to learn about some of the devices used in the shows.

Top Hats, Tea and Puzzles: Professor Layton *Davinci A-B Saturday 1:45pm – 3:00pm

Join us for an overview of Level-5’s popular Nintendo DS puzzle series. Discuss the adventures of Professor Layton and his apprentice Luke, from Curious Village to Last Specter, the feature movie Eternal Diva, and the new 3DS game, Mask of Miracle. A gentleman never leaves a puzzle unsolved!

Transformers: Life in Japan *Florence Saturday 8:15pm – 9:15pm

Discussion dedicated to the Transformers series that aired in Japan after the conclusion of the American cartoon. Transformers: Headmasters, Masterforce, and Victory.

Underrated Series *DaVinci A-B Sunday 9:30am – 11:00am

We will be discussing and showing series that many fans of new and old may enjoy. Introducing series that are not well known and would be a welcome addition to any Anime fans collection.

Violence, Sex, and Death: The Films of Takashi Miike *LAX A-B Friday 10:00pm – 12:00am

Takashi Miike is one of Japan’s most exciting filmmakers; with a filmography that consistently pushes the envelope. “Ichi the Killer,” “Audition,” “13 Assassins,” and more span his 70+ film career. Come for an evening where we will discuss one of the masters!

Vocaloid: Past, Present, Future *DaVinci A-B Friday 7:15pm – 8:30pm

A crash course discussion on some of Vocaloid’s history and where it might be going not too far from now.

Vocaloid: The Future of Game Shows *LAX A-B Saturday 10:00pm – 12:00am

This is what happens when Vocaloids host a game show. That’s all we’re allowed to say.

Welcome to “The World” – All About .hack! *International DEF Friday 9:30am – 10:30am

Join us whether you’re a complete newbie to .hack or a fanboy/girl of this unique series. Spanning over multiple manga, anime, and video games, we will guide everyone through .hack’s massive universe!

Welcome to Gensokyo 2012 *London Saturday 3:00pm – 4:30pm

A quirky comedy sketch presentation detailing the world of Touhou that is pleasing to both new and seasoned fans in an innovative way.

What Are You Doing Here? KPOP Dance! *Narita A-B Saturday 5:30pm – 7:00pm

Japanese Para-para’s are old news. KPOP dance is where it’s at! Like KPOP and wanna do the dances? Join us and get your groove on! Oh! And you get to see really, really, really hot Korean boys on screen.

Who Wants To Be A Voice Actor? *Rosemont Saturday 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Join us for an interactive workshop/discussion/Q&A on what it takes to make it in voice-over. Bring along all those characters in your head; audience members will have a chance to participate in exercises and mock auditions aimed at showing you the ins and outs of voice acting!

Word to Your Mother: Earthbound *Narita A-B Friday 6:15pm – 7:15pm

The Mother series is a much loved RPG trilogy. While it may not be as well known as other RPGs, it has gained a cult following due to it’s unique use of a modern setting and quirky humor. Explore and learn more about the origins of Ness and Lucas!

World Folklore and Mythology *London Saturday 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Ever wonder about the Norse gods and Irish spirits that pop up in dozens of anime series? Come and hear some of the stories and legends that work their way into the shows we love!

Write and Sell your Anime eBook *Heathrow A-B Saturday 12:00pm – 1:00pm

Ever wanted to write your own anime-inspired story and put it on Kindle or Nook? Rocco Ryg, author of “I Am Become Death”, will guide you through the steps. Learn to write a great story, put it on eBook readers, and market it to your audience.

Yarn Ball for Cat Boys and Girls *LAX A-B Friday 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Costume mixer and discussion panel for neko fans! History of cat-characters in anime explored. Come in neko gear, show off and mingle with fellow fans. Instructions on staying in cat mode. Costumes will be judged. Ribbons for the best – kitties luv ribbons!

Yoga for Otaku (And Everyone Else!) *Narita A-B Saturday 10:00am – 11:00am

Take a relaxing break from the stress and excitement of AceN with an hour of yoga! Gentle stretches and basic poses will help you gain a calmer perspective on the events of the weekend as well as invigorate you in preparation for the rest of the weekend!

You Are Shock! The Fist of the North Star! *Florence Friday 10:00pm – 11:00pm

Discussion of the hit 80’s action anime, Fist of the North Star, as well as the newer “Fist of the Blue Sky.”

Zombie Survival 101 *Paris Friday 10:15pm – 12:15pm

From the classic slow moving zombies, to the Booomers and Hunters of Left4Dead and Left4Dead2, to the recent addition of Dead Island—zombies are everywhere. The question is, do you know how to survive? Learn the basics and then some from attending Zombie Survival 101. This panel will be running twice.

Zombie Survival 101 *Paris Saturday 8:00pm – 10:00pm

ACen 2012 Panel Programming Schedule

Click on the files below to view the PDF version of our current rough draft schedule. There are about 4-5 rooms not listed in the schedule because they have not been filled yet. We still have about 90 or so panel applications and other professional panels to list! Panels in the Rosemont room are subject to change since this is one of our main programming rooms and changing things around happens a lot there.

As our panelists review this schedule they make requests to move, shorten, extend, and generally change their time. So make sure you check back often if you’re keeping track of the times of certain panels.

*If the pdf is too small to read in your browser you can press CTRL and Scroll on your mouse or trackpad to make the print larger. To return to the normal screen size just scroll the opposite way
*If you’re looking for a specific panel click CTRL F and type in your key word. You may need to hit Enter a few times to find which panel containing that word you are looking for

Attachment	Size
Official Friday Schedule - Sheet1 (21).pdf	68.23 KB
Official Saturday Schedule - Sheet1 (13).pdf	76.09 KB
Official Sunday Schedule - Sheet1 (3).pdf	45.75 KB