Hello everyone! My name is Jamie Hennessy, and I’m the chairperson for Anime USA 2024. When I started with the convention in 2009 I was just a Hall Cosplay staff member, but I worked my way up through the Events department, eventually becoming the Cosplay Director. Now, I’m proud to be the Chairperson, and an active member of the Board of Directors.

Anime USA has always been a convention where its staff and members come together to learn, grow, share and experience their love for anime, gaming, and pop culture.  I have enjoyed watching this show grow and evolve into what it is today – and I’m excited for the hard work my staff has put into making 2024 a fantastic year.

Our weekly newsletters will hopefully get you excited for this year, I can’t wait to share all of our exciting announcements with you!

Join us in welcoming Mallorie Rodak, the talented voice behind Frieren in the critically acclaimed anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End! Known for her captivating performances and incredible range, Mallorie brings the character of Frieren to life with a voice that perfectly captures the blend of nostalgia, wisdom, and vulnerability that defines the character. As a key figure in this emotional journey, Mallorie’s portrayal of Frieren has resonated deeply with fans, making her one of the standout voices in the anime world today.

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End tells the poignant story of Frieren, an elven mage reflecting on her adventures long after her companions have passed away. Mallorie’s performance highlights Frieren’s inner conflict as she grapples with the passage of time and the meaning of friendship, drawing audiences into a world where memories and legacies intertwine. Her ability to convey both the strength and sorrow of Frieren’s character has earned her widespread praise and admiration from fans and critics alike.

In addition to Frieren, Mallorie is also well known for Yukino (Fairy Tail), Raphael/Great Sage (That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime), Rossweisse (High School DXD), High Elf Archer (Goblin Slayer), Yumi (Senran Kagura), Yuki Mori (Star Blazers), Nia Honjo (Date A Live), Solution Epsilon (Overlord), Nebra Silva (Black Clover), Tenya’s Mother (My Hero Academia), Woman in Black (Fire Force), Fanis Laminitus (How Not to Summon a Demon Lord), Astaroth (Combatants Will Be Dispatched!), Miyu Takano (Higurashi: When They Cry – Gou), Turquoise (Dr. Stone), Prince of Wales (Azur Lane), Finè (Izetta), Orsola (A Certain Magical Index II), Kyoh Goshoin (Netoge), Enishida (One Piece), and Sayuki (Hensuki).

Whether you’re a fan of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End or one of her many other roles, this is the perfect opportunity to hear about her experiences, ask your burning questions, and get a glimpse into the world of voice acting. Be sure to keep an eye out for her panels, or stop by and visit her in the dealer’s room!

 

Get ready to shine! Idol*USA is back and better than ever, bringing the energy and excitement of idol anime straight to the convention stage. This year, we’ve made an exciting change: the showcase will now take place on Friday, giving you an early weekend treat filled with music, dance, and dazzling performances! Inspired by beloved idol shows like Love Live!, this event features groups of talented attendees who have worked tirelessly to perfect their song and dance routines. It’s a celebration of passion, dedication, and all things idol culture—an experience you won’t want to miss.

Our idol groups have put their hearts into creating performances that will leave you cheering and dancing along! Stay tuned for the announcement of our performing groups in the coming weeks! Each group is ready to bring their A-game and make this year’s Idol*USA the best yet. Mark your calendars, grab your glow sticks, and get ready for a Friday night filled with idol magic. We can’t wait to see you there!

Prepare for double the cuteness on Saturday with two special panels! First up is “Meet the Shiba Inu,” where you can meet the real-life version of the internet’s favorite meme doge. If you’ve only ever seen these charming pups in pictures or video games, now’s your chance to interact with a Shiba Inu in person and learn about the breed’s fascinating history. This panel offers the perfect blend of education and adorableness, giving you a deeper appreciation for this iconic Japanese breed.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Right after, join us for “Meet the American Akita,” where you’ll encounter another majestic and powerful dog with a storied past. Known for their loyalty and strength, the American Akita has a unique place in both Japanese and American culture.

If you’re looking for a Saturday packed with wagging tails, fascinating facts, and unforgettable encounters with two beloved breeds, we’ve got you covered!

Panel, Workshop, and Gameshow Programming Submissions are still live until September 1st, 2024!  Use the following link to get started and help Anime USA continue to be “Of Otaku, By Otaku, and For Otaku“!

We’re still seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join our team this year. As a staff member, you’ll receive some great perks, including:

If you’re ready to be part of an amazing team and help make this year’s convention unforgettable, apply now!

Book Your Stay at the Anime USA 2024 Hotel! The hotel room block is now open, offering a special rate for Anime USA members. The Hyatt Regency Crystal City is located at 2799 Richmond Highway, in Arlington, Virginia.

Staying at the convention hotel means you’ll be just steps away from all the excitement, panels, and events. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to immerse yourself in the full convention experience while enjoying the perks of a special rate. Book your room now and get ready for an unforgettable Anime USA 2024!