Anime Conference Hits Memphis
Fans of Japanese cartoon style animation have showed up in costume for the first Anime (AN’-ih-may) Blues Con in Memphis.
The conference drew about 1,300 fans to the Hilton Memphis on Sunday for panel discussions, autograph signings and what fans call “cosplay” – dressing up as their favorite cartoon characters.
Dalya Gebba of Jonesboro, Ark., came as Princess Peach from the “Mario Brothers” series. Another fan dressed as Mario himself, complete with blue overalls, red undershirt and mustache.
The style first popularized by the cartoon “Speed Racer” has transcended geography, age and culture. Conference organizer George Min says there are no boundaries as anime has spread globally, according to The Commercial Appeal.
The three-day conference raised about $1,000 for the American Red Cross.
