The anime event TOKYO ANIME NEXT, organized by the Association of Japanese Animations and co-hosted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, took place on November 2. The event served as a launch initiative for a new anime award planned for 2027, and was divided into three main segments: a talk session, a live orchestral stage, and a formal award announcement.
Part 1: Talk Session on the Appeal of Japanese Anime
The first segment brought together Shoko Nakagawa, comedian Toshiyuki Itakura (Impulse), and voice actress Sally Amaki (22/7) for a discussion themed around “the appeal of Japanese anime loved around the world.”
When asked what first got them hooked on anime, Nakagawa cited Sailor Moon, Itakura named Fist of the North Star, and Amaki pointed to Gintama. Nakagawa, who performs “Sorairo Days” — the opening theme of Gurren Lagann — shared that “even overseas, everyone sings along in Japanese.” Amaki, who grew up in Los Angeles, then surprised the panel by revealing: “That song is actually what got me into anime music. It was hugely popular in America — I even sang it at an audition.” Nakagawa reacted with delight, exclaiming, “That wasn’t in the script!! I’m so glad to be alive!!”
Part 2: Live Orchestral Performances from Three Iconic Series
The second segment was the evening’s centerpiece, with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra performing live scores from Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Attack on Titan, and Detective Conan, accompanied by iconic scenes from each series projected on screen.
- Nami Nakagawa sang “Kamado Tanjiro no Uta” from Demon Slayer
- Higuchi Ai performed “Akuma no Ko” from Attack on Titan
- Mai Kuraki delivered “Secret of my heart” from Detective Conan, with footage from the series playing behind her
Each performance drew thunderous applause from the audience, who were visibly moved as beloved memories from their favorite series came flooding back.
Part 3: Japan Anime Award Announced for November 2027
In the final segment, Kazuko Ishikawa of the Association of Japanese Animations officially announced the name and date of the new Japan Anime Award. The inaugural ceremony will be held on November 21, 2027 at SGC Hall Ariake in Tokyo.
The award is positioned as a successor to the Tokyo Anime Award Festival, which concluded this year after 13 years of history. While full details have yet to be disclosed, the award is expected to place particular emphasis on recognizing the contributions of creators.
A video message from Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike was also screened, in which she stated, “The Tokyo Metropolitan Government will continue to offer strong support to anime and all those who create it.” Ishikawa added: “Alongside this award, we aim to work with Tokyo to further develop anime culture, create new opportunities for the next generation, nurture up-and-coming creators, expand business opportunities, and shine a light on new talent.”
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