Heart Japan Launched in Aid of Tohoku Earthquake

Recovery efforts are underway in Japan after the earthquake and tsunami that struck it on the 11th of March but the situation is still serious. Fortunately, anime fans can contribute through a variety of events that are being organised across the country and Anime UK News has received exciting information about a new campaign named Heart Japan which is due to launch on the 20th of April at Vibe Bar, in the heart of London’s Brick Lane.

In a press release, Heart Japan organisers explained:

In response to the ongoing tragedy surrounding the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan, this month, anime, J-Pop and Japanese fashion fan groups from around the country have decided to get together and create Heart Japan – parties in aid of the Tohoku Earthquake Relief Fund.

The main event is taking place at the Vibe Bar, in the heart of London’s Brick Lane on the 20 April. Heart Japan is registering its events with Play for Japan and all profits will be donated to the Tohoku Earthquake Relief Fund, a charity set up by the Japan Society to directly fund the relief and rebuilding effort in Japan.

Anime and J-Pop societies from across the UK, as well as famous author Helen McCarthy, have pooled their resources to create a exciting evening of music, performance and live art! Guests at the London event can look forward to:

Live Bands and DJs

Playing the best in J-pop, J-Rock and anime themes, organized by the Grand Cosplay Ball and J-Pop Go! Performances will include an dance routine and ota-gei performance by all-Japanese idol tribute group, LDN48!

Electro/dance artist Zonic will also be performing at Heart Japan’s London launch. Her music is described as a unique blend of trance and electro with haunting, melodic vocals and samples from her favourite video game soundtracks.

Live Manga Art

Experience big-screen anime visuals, or join in with our giant drawing wall! Manga portraits and commissions will be available from Kelly Kimber and artist group Umisen Yamasen. You can also have your portrait drawn by Chi-tan from manga artist collective Umisen Yamasen! All profits will go to charity.

Charity Auction

Up for auction is an original artwork by Scott Pilgrim artist, Bryan Lee O’Malley amongst other items! Bryan Lee O’Malley has drawn us an original piece of art, which will be auctioned off at the Heart Japan launch and Scott is wearing the Heart Japan logo on his t-shirt!

There will also be a charity raffle with prizes including DVDs courtesy of MVM, CDs from Erased Tapes, £30 of Wagamama vouchers and £150 of t-shirts from Uniqlo’s anime range!

Cosplay Portrait photo booth

Cosplay Portrait will be running a cosplay photo booth, with all profits donated to charity!

Cupcakes and maids and lolitas, oh my!

Sample delectable cakes and fancies in the café area, all made by the Heart Japan committee and a group of London lolitas! The café will be manned by the lolitas, together with maids from Oh My Lord! Maid café! There will also be a fashion show during the evening, showcasing the best Lolita brands, straight from Japan.

No dress code, but cosplay or Japanese fashion is encouraged!

For more information, please visit: http://www.heartjapan.org.uk

Heart Japan J-Pop / Anime Fundraiser

Date: Wednesday, 20th April 2011

Time: 18:30 – 23:00

Venue: Vibe Bar, Brick Lane, London E1 6QL

Tickets: £7.50 (in advance), £9 (on the door)

To purchase tickets for the event, you can click here.