The Arkansas Anime Festival Announces Special Guests

The Arkansas Anime Festival is back and better than ever, returning to the Holiday Inn in Springdale, Arkansas, from June 27th to 29th! This family-friendly celebration of anime, cosplay, and pop culture promises an unforgettable weekend packed with fun.

Fans can explore an amazing lineup of artists, vendors, thrilling performances, and engaging panels. This year’s festival will also feature a fantastic lineup of special guests, including talented cosplayers and world-famous voice actors. Don’t miss out—mark your calendars for an action-packed anime adventure!

Special Guests announcements below:

Bryan Massey

We’re thrilled to announce that multi-award-winning actor Bryan Massey will be joining us! With an impressive career spanning stage, screen, and voice acting, Bryan brings a wealth of talent and experience to every medium. He’s voiced iconic characters such as Crimson Riot in My Hero Academia, Oolong in Dragon Ball Z Kai, and Wilhelm the Enforcer in Borderlands: The Pre Sequel. You’ve also seen him in films like W., Mad Money, and Drive Angry, as well as series like X-Files and Prison Break. Stay tuned to hear from this incredible performer who continues to captivate audiences worldwide!

Amanda Gish

We are excited to welcome the incredibly talented Amanda Gish! Known for her dynamic roles as an actress, model, cosplayer, singer, and voice actor, Amanda has brought countless characters to life. Fans will recognize her as Kinoko Komori in My Hero Academia, Witch in Goblin Slayer, and Inara in the video game Paladins, among many others.

Outside of acting, Amanda produces k-pop music videos and English covers as Black Rose Garden, and shares lifestyle content on her YouTube channel, AmandaGish0802. Be sure to follow her creative journey on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @Mastagish!

Shawn Gann

We’re excited to introduce Shawn Gann, a talented Filipino-American ADR Voice & Casting Director, Voiceover Artist, and Educator. Shawn has voiced roles in beloved titles such as My Hero Academia, Dragon Ball Super, Attack on Titan, and One Piece. His impressive directing credits include Buddy Daddies, Fruits Basket, Kaiju No. 8, and many more.

You may also recognize his voice from video games like Borderlands 3, Genshin Impact, and Tales of Luminaria. Recently, Shawn completed filming for Amazon’s The Dark Places and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Don’t miss the chance to meet this accomplished artist!

Marissa Lenti

We’re thrilled to welcome the amazing Marissa Lenti as our special guest! Best known as the voice of Moze in Borderlands 3 and Gangle in The Amazing Digital Circus, Marissa has lent their talent to countless beloved characters. Fans will recognize their anime roles such as Cocotte in Dragon Ball Super, Libra in Fairy Tail, and Chiaki Hoshinomori in Gamers!.

In gaming, Marissa shines as voices like Financier Cookie in Cookie Run: Kingdom and Thor in Marvel Avengers Academy. Don’t miss the chance to meet this multifaceted star of anime, video games, and so much more!

Go here for tickets and other information.