In Scarlet Rhapsody's first ever Guest of Honor spotlight, we had the honor of attending press conferences for Vic Mignogna (Edward Elric in Full Metal Alchemist), Wendy Powell (Envy in Full Metal Alchemist), and Todd Haberkorn (Death the Kid in Soul Eater). All three Anime Central guests of honor have done extensive work as voice over talent in various anime.

Vic Mignogna's conference took place on Friday, May 14. Vic talked about his own personal experience in fandom. Did you know he has a light sabre collection? When Vic was younger, he attended science fiction conventions dressed up like the jedi from Star Wars. Vic also highlighted his anime convention experience as a guest of honor.

In this clip, Scarlet Rhapsody asks Vic about his favorite convention memory. This is what he had to say about this year's Anime Central.

More on Vic Mignogna's press conference can be seen on the Anime Central Playlist. I apologize for the sound glithces. I tried transfering the video to both iMovie and Avid Liquid on two different operating machines. If anyone knows how this problem can be avoided in the future, please email me (staff @ scarlet-rhapsody.com).

On Sunday, May 16, Wendy Powell and Todd Haberkorn had a joint press conference in the morning. Todd was running a few minutes late because everyone was checking out of the Hyatt at noon. He was delayed by elevator traffic. Wendy requested that there would be no video taken of the panel. Both voice actors have been attending the convention circuit for about three years. The two of them talked about their adventures across the country.

Wendy said she'll never forget Todd cosplaying at Anime Central during opening ceremonies. It was Todd's first cosplay experience. Todd is very impressed by the quality of cosplays by the fans. Both actors are very thankful with how Anime Central treats their guests and fans. "No one ever gets angry at each other," Todd says.

Wendy talked in depth about Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood. She is excited about the new production of the series. The experience feels different since most of the cast relocated to Los Angeles. Wendy calls Full Metal Alchemist the "gateway to anime." She is excited that a new group of fans will be introduced to this series.

Todd and Wendy also gave advice for those aspiring to be voice actors in the anime industry. Both voice artists advise to be professional and understand that you should be taken seriously. Todd suggests to listen to other voice artists. In addition, Wendy suggests to take acting classes and voice lessons. "If you don't have any training ... it's going to be a rough ride for you," Wendy says.

Though Wendy and Todd were tired on Sunday, I have to thank them for still committing to the press conference. As a member of the press, I appreciate their time. Many thanks to Vic Mignogna for sharing his stories.

Many thanks to Vic Walter of Anime Central press for getting these conferences together. I would like to see more anime conventions have these special opportunities for members of the press.

Pictures are copyright by Scarlet Rhapsody . If I took your picture, feel free to use it on your site or cosplay gallery. While you're here, do sign the guestbook. This site was brought to you by the font Andes. Many thanks to Chaz Boston Baden for the image resizing and watermarking program.