PAniC stands for Perth Anime Convention. PAniC is the organiser of Perth’s only annual anime convention. The PAniC committee started planning for the first ever convention (held in December 2004) as far as back as September 2003, and was incorporated as a non-profit organisation a few months later.

Okay, what is anime?

Anime is the word that the Japanese use to refer to all animated works. When used by the Western fan base, it refers specifically to Japanese animation and its very unique style. Our convention, Wai-Con, is a celebration and exploration of Japanese culture through this medium.

So what’s this Wai-Con, then?

Wai-Con is our yearly convention, whereas PAniC is the working body who organises the convention through an annually elected committee.   Traditionally held at the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre due to its easy access and central location, Wai-Con attracts a large amount of Perth’s anime fan base to its halls.  At Wai-Con 2011 there were over 3600 paying attendees not including traders or staff.  That’s a lot of fans!

At Wai-Con, there is a metric ton of stuff to enjoy!  Here’s just a small selection of what attendees will discover at Wai-Con in 2012:

• Screenings of the latest anime from Japan, as well as the newest acquisitions from local Australian DVD distributors.
• A large traders hall where various national and international companies and stores sell and advertise their wares to the local community.
• Many fan-groups advertising themselves and selling their homemade works.
• Competitions for all ages and skill sets – costume-play, a variety of art contests for both the quick-draw and the perfectionist, the latest videogame tournaments, homemade music videos and karaoke.
• Guest performers, including local musical acts and demonstrations.

 

When and where is Wai-Con 2012?

This year, PAniC will be holding Wai-Con at the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre, on the 28-29 January 2012. Mark your calendars!