Ottawa's first anime convention set for March 29-31

A new weekend event celebrating the art, culture and fandom of anime will take place in Ottawa for the first time this month.

Organized by the same team behind Ottawa's fall Comiccon, Anime Ottawa is scheduled for March 29-31 at EY Centre.

In addition to attractions such as an artists' alley, dance showcases, workshops, panels and a masquerade contest, the three-day convention will feature an array of special guests, including voice actors Chris Hackney, Daman Hall and Emi Lo, plus live music by one of the top Japanese anisong groups, angela.

Comprised of vocalist Atsuko and instrumentalist Katsu, angela has been producing and performing music for anime projects for more than 20 years. Hailing from Okayama, Japan, the duo was officially certified by the Guinness Book of World Records for having created the most number of songs for an animation franchise for their work with the Fafner in the Azure series.

Another highlight is expected to be Saturday 's masquerade contest, an amateur costume competition for local cosplayers, to be judged by Canadian masters. Registration is full, but you can cheer on the participants at 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Awards will be handed out at 2 p.m. Sunday.

Earlybird tickets for Anime Ottawa are $30 for a single day, or $60 for a weekend pass, with discounts for children aged 6-12 accompanied by an adult. Some events, such as the meet-and-greet with angela, will require a separate ticket.

Earlybird pricing is in effect until March 24 online at animeottawa.com.