News
Otakon to Host Pop Culture Diplomat Takamasa Sakurai
posted on by Gia Manry
Otakon announced author and pop culture diplomat Takamasa Sakurai as a guest of its July 30–August 1 event in Baltimore, Maryland. Sakurai is most famous as the author of books such as the Anime Bunka Gaikō (Anime Culture Diplomacy) and Sekai Kawaii Kakumei (World Kawaii Revolution), and for taking part in the establishment of "Kawaii Ambassadors" — three Japanese girls who offer lectures on Japanese fashion at such events as Bangkok's Japan Festa and Paris's Japan Expo.
Sakurai himsel has reportedly toured around the world researching the global impact of Japanese popular culture. His travels have taken him to such locations as France, Saudi Arabia, Myanmar, Russia, and Brazil.
Also announced was anime voice actor, ADR Director/producer, and script writer Christopher Bevins. Bevins' credits total over 70 titles, including directing BECK: Mongolian Chop Squad and voicing Mercutio in Romeo X Juliet.
Previous Otakon 2010 guest announcements include designer Naoto Hirooka and musical acts The Yoshida Brothers and Home Made Kazoku.
