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Kyodo News
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Kyodo News
"The Rising of the Shield Hero" First Live Event: Voice Actors and Theme Song Artists Gather!
The anime series "The Rising of the Shield Hero" began its fourth season on July 9, 2025, airing on Crunchyroll, and other channels. Recently, on Sunday, June 15, the series' first live event, "Shield Fest ~The Rising Excitement of Shield Hero: The LIVE of the Shield Hero~," was held at the Sakura Hall in Shibuya Ward's Cultural Center Owada. The event featured voice actors Kaito Ishikawa (Naofumi Iwatani), Asami Seto (Raphtalia), Rina Hidaka (Filo), Natsuko Hara (Rishia), Yoshitsugu Matsuoka (Ren Amaki), and Makoto Takahashi (Motoyasu Kitamura). Additionally, theme song performers MADKID and Chiai Fujikawa were in attendance. As this was the anime series' first live event, the voice cast and artists took the audience on a journey through seasons 1-3, reminiscing about key moments through talks and musical performances. The event also featured a dramatic reading of an original story written by the light novel's author, Aneko Yusagi, making it a truly special experience for long-time fans of the series. The event provided a delightful opportunity for supporters who have been following the series to come together and celebrate their beloved show. Through a combination of engaging discussions and captivating musical performances, attendees were able to relive the most memorable aspects of "The Rising of the Shield Hero" in a unique and interactive way. This article presents a report on this event. Additional Animation for Ishikawa's Performance During Recording As the start time approached, Filo appeared in costume, adorably greeting the audience. Before the show began, fans enjoyed taking photos of Filo dancing to the music. With the venue buzzing with excitement, Ishikawa led the cast onto the stage. The opening talk touched on this being the first live event for the series and explained that the show would revisit seasons 1-3 through music and discussion. Seto and Hidaka mentioned they had been talking about doing an event like this on their radio show for a while, and even contributed ideas for the event merchandise sold at the venue. Matsuoka, Takahashi, and Hara were asked to reflect on their experiences. They revealed that the Four Cardinal Heroes cast had done a live broadcast before, but this was their first time meeting fans face-to-face. With Ishikawa hyping up the crowd even more, the musical performances began. MADKID performed "RISE" and "FAITH," the opening themes from the first and second cours of Season 1, respectively. Chiai Fujikawa sang "Kimi no Namae" (Your Name), which served as the ending theme for the first cour and episode 25, as well as "Atashi ga Tonari ni Iru Uchi ni" (While I'm By Your Side), the ending theme for the second cour. After the live performance segment, the voice actors reappeared on stage. The members of MADKID, who had just finished singing, shared their thoughts. They commented that both "RISE" and "FAITH" feature upbeat melodies and sharp dance performances that really get the audience excited. The members expressed their joy at seeing fans singing along and cheering them on. Each member was then asked by Ishikawa to share their favorite scene from Season 1, which they discussed in detail. The talk segment continued with a look back at memorable scenes from Season 1, based on a survey conducted with the cast members. Seto, who went first, chose a scene from Episode 8, "The Curse Shield," where Raphtalia embraces Naofumi and brings him back to his senses. Seto noted that this scene left a strong impression, showing Raphtalia's devotion and marking the moment when Naofumi, who had become distrustful of people, finally looked Raphtalia in the eye. It felt like they had become each other's safe haven. Hidaka selected a scene from Episode 17, "A Promise Made," featuring Filo's one-on-one battle with Fitoria. She explained that she liked seeing Filo, who is usually cute and comforting, working hard to become stronger for her companions. Hidaka also mentioned enjoying Filo's frustrated expression and her dislike of the ahoge (cowlick) that appeared after gaining the right of succession. Lastly, Ishikawa chose a scene from Episode 21, "Naofumi's Triumphant Return." This iconic moment features the brilliant voice acting of Bridcutt Sarah Emi as Malty S Melromarc, and the scene where Naofumi interrupts just before Malty and Aultcray Melromarc XXXII are about to be beheaded. Naofumi then renames Malty as "Bitch" and Aultcray as "Trash." Ishikawa shared a behind-the-scenes story about this scene. During a pre-recording test, he delivered the line "It's Bitch!" in a more casual tone. The staff liked it and asked him to keep that style, which led to additional animation being added for the final broadcast. Myne's Overwhelming Presence Leaves Matsuoka Speechless After concluding the Season 1 segment, the event transitioned back to the live performance section. This time, they revisited Seasons 2 and 3. MADKID performed "Bring Back" and "SIN," while Fujikawa sang "Yuzurenai" and "Suki ni Natte wa Ikenai Riyuu." Following the performances, Fujikawa shared her thoughts on the live event. During her comments, Fujikawa expressed her deep love for music, dogs, and Filo. It was also revealed that Seto and Hidaka had attended Fujikawa's live performances after she appeared as a guest on their radio show. Hidaka, in particular, was so enthusiastic that he even attended concerts alone, passionately praising the appeal of Fujikawa's songs. When discussing singing the show's songs in front of fans for the first time since the Season 1 screening event, Fujikawa shared how comforting and reassuring the audience's warm applause was. The talk segment highlighted memorable scenes from Seasons 2 and 3. Hara chose Rishia's confrontation with Kyo=Ethnina from Season 2, Episode 6, "Pursuit." He noted how Rishia's journey with Naofumi and the others had strengthened her, allowing her to perceive Kyo's weaknesses. Matsuoka selected the scene from Season 3, Episode 6, "The Direction of Strength," where Ren falls into darkness after being deceived by Myne. Matsuoka expressed sympathy for Ren and pondered how many lives Myne had ruined. Takahashi chose the scene from Season 3, Episode 4, "Spear Hero Capture Operation," where Motoyasu finds guidance through Filo's song. Before screening this scene, the voice actors were given light sticks to cheer along with the audience. The crowd was incredibly enthusiastic, with "Filo!" chants echoing throughout the venue. Takahashi described this scene as a new beginning, suggesting that everything up to this point was merely a prologue. It leaves fans wondering about Motoyasu's future role. Matsuoka added that he had watched this scene in real-time at home and found it moving and inspiring. After the talk segment concluded, a dramatic reading featuring all six cast members' characters was presented. This reading was based on an original story outline written by the series' creator, Aneko Yusagi. The story was set in a timeline just before the Bow Hero, Itsuki Kawasumi, joined the group towards the end of Season 3. The reading showcased a slice of everyday life, both comical and peaceful. In one scene, Motoyasu chased after Filo, only to be kicked into the stars. Another highlighted Naofumi's culinary skills as he prepared a stew using a rare ingredient called Golden Usapil, which he had acquired by chance. Just when it seemed the event was coming to a close, an encore began. MADKID performed "Resolution" and Chiai Fujikawa sang "Eien ni Ikkai no" - the opening and ending themes for the upcoming Season 4, set to air in July. The audience's excitement reached its peak! Amidst this enthusiasm, the voice actors returned to the stage to reveal the latest information about the series. This included a preview video featuring Fujikawa's newly performed song, the latest key visual, broadcast details, and information about the anime "Isekai Quartet" Season 3, in which characters from "The Rising of the Shield Hero" also appear. To conclude the event, Kaito Ishikawa, speaking on behalf of the cast, expressed gratitude to the fans. He hinted at new bonds and storylines with fresh characters in the upcoming Season 4, building anticipation for what lies ahead in the series. The event wrapped up with a commemorative photo session, including Filo who had greeted fans before the show. In a surprise twist, a cake was brought out to celebrate the birthdays of Asami Hidaka and YOU-TA, MADKID's leader, which coincided with the event date. The entire venue joined in the celebration. About the Anime Synopsis As the Shield Hero, Naofumi Iwatani, prepares for the impending battle against the soon-to-be-revived "Phoenix" of the Four Guardian Beasts, he confronts and reconciles with the other three Cardinal Heroes, aiming to unite their powers despite their previous conflicts. However, Raphtalia is mistakenly perceived as having intentions to inherit the throne, leading to assassination attempts by agents from the nation of Q'ten Lo. To resolve this misunderstanding, Naofumi decides to visit Siltvelt, the demi-human country that maintains the only active ferry service to Q'ten Lo. While warmly welcomed by the demi-humans who revere the Shield Hero, Naofumi's group discovers that Siltvelt is not entirely unified, with some factions opposing their presence. Meanwhile, Q'ten Lo faces its own political instability, with Raphtalia being unwittingly elevated as a symbol of revolution. Amidst this complex and turbulent situation, can Naofumi become the guiding light for his companions? Cast Naofumi Iwatani: Kaito Ishikawa Raphtalia: Asami Seto Filo: Rina Hidaka Fohl: Kouhei Amasaki Atla: Konomi Kohara Sadeena: Ami Koshimizu Ren Amaki: Yoshitsugu Matsuoka Itsuki Kawasumi: Yoshio Yamaya Motoyasu Kitamura: Makoto Takahashi Melty: Maaya Uchida Lecia: Natsuko Hara Éclair: Ruriko Aoki Sein: Maria Naganawa Mirellia: Kikuko Inoue Aultcray: Yutaka Nakano Welner: Takeo Otsuka Jaralis: Jiro Saito (C)AnekoYusagi_Seira Minami/KADOKAWA/Shield Hero S4 Project ※Some parts of this text have been translated using machine translation
Time of India
16-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Air India Flight AI171 Tragedy: Travel Industry Unites in Mourning and Calls for Safety Reform, ET TravelWorld
Advt Advt Air India plane crash prompts India to launch high-level aviation safety review The Air India AI-171 crash, which claimed more than 260 lives, has prompted the Indian government to initiate a high-level aviation safety review. With global investigators, including the FAA and Boeing, involved, the tragedy marks the first-ever Boeing 787-8 crash and raises urgent questions about aircraft safety, oversight, and systemic reforms. See More Details By , ETTravelWorld Join the community of 2M+ industry professionals. Subscribe to Newsletter to get latest insights & analysis in your inbox. All about ETTravelWorld industry right on your smartphone! Download the ETTravelWorld App and get the Realtime updates and Save your favourite articles. The Indian travel and tourism industry has united in a wave of grief and support following the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 on June 12, shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad en route to London Gatwick. The crash of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which claimed more than 270 lives, including those of 241 people onboard, has sent shockwaves across aviation, hospitality, and trade travel community's grief is underscored by the widespread participation of associations across inbound, outbound, adventure, and tourism training sectors, each issuing heartfelt tributes and action-oriented Ministry of Civil Aviation, Air India, and emergency responders have been quick to take swift actions, while stakeholders across the ecosystem are calling for an in-depth safety review and stronger support systems for affected travel trade associations have responded by sharing condolences to the families while calling for safety review by the government. Rajiv Mehra, Secretary General, FAITH (Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality), said, 'FAITH stands with the aviation ecosystem in mourning this tragic loss. Our prayers are with the families of the deceased. We welcome the government's announcement of a high-level safety review and stress the need for preventive mechanisms. This is a moment for the entire industry to unite and push for reforms that prioritize human life above all.'Sunil Kumar, President, TAAI (Travel Agents Association of India), said: 'This tragedy has deeply shaken our industry. We express our profound grief and offer condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. Air India, as our national carrier, is not just a brand — it is a legacy. We extend our solidarity with the airline's staff and management. TAAI supports the government's move for a thorough investigation. Ensuring the safety of air passengers must be our foremost priority.'Ravi Gosain, President, IATO (Indian Association of Tour Operators), stated, 'It's a devastating loss. We send our deepest condolences to the families of the passengers and crew. As part of India's inbound tourism community, we have always worked closely with Air India and are proud of its contribution. The tragedy warrants a strong policy-driven approach towards aviation safety. We stand with Air India and all the support staff handling this crisis.'Himanshu Patil, President, OTOAI (Outbound Tour Operators Association of India), remarked: 'We are stunned and heartbroken. As outbound tour operators, many of our clients have flown with Air India to the UK and other long-haul destinations. The crash has deeply impacted traveller confidence. We urge the authorities to conduct a transparent inquiry and support international cooperation for aviation safety. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families and to Air India's team.'Ajeet Bajaj, President, ATOAI (Adventure Tour Operators Association of India), said, 'Every single life lost was on a journey, possibly of hope and purpose. We express our condolences to the families and pray for strength in this difficult time. The crash reminds us of the shared responsibility we carry as travel professionals. We join hands with the broader fraternity to push for safety reforms across sectors.'Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson, THSC (Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council), shared, 'The crash is not just an aviation tragedy, but a human one. The loss of life, including young professionals and travellers with aspirations, is painful. Our hearts go out to the families. We must now turn to action — through better training, upgraded standards, and emotional support services . THSC pledges to work closely with authorities and operators to implement robust safety and skills frameworks.'Satish Sehrawat and Bobby K.S. Sawhney, Executive Committee Members, ITTA (Indian Tourist Transporters Association) issued a joint note: 'This disaster has left an irreparable scar on our industry. As ground transport providers who regularly connect with airports and inbound travel, we feel this loss personally. We extend our support to families and urge the government and Air India to offer transparent updates and long-term rehabilitation measures.'Beyond condolences, these industry voices collectively underscore the need for resilience, transparency, and long-term support. From psychological counselling to policy-level changes, the associations have pledged to contribute wherever possible, from operational support to advocating for systemic investigation efforts continue, the tragedy of AI-171 stands as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the need to continually reexamine aviation and travel protocols.
New Indian Express
27-04-2025
- Business
- New Indian Express
Kashmir tourism stumbles after Pahalgam terror attack, but industry leaders remain hopeful
NEW DELHI: Tourism in Kashmir, which had been on the rise since the Covid pandemic, has come to a standstill following the the According to the Association of Hoteliers in the Valley, footfall has plummeted drastically, and 80 percent of bookings have been cancelled in the last four days. 'People are obviously scared and don't want to come to Kashmir, so they are sending requests for cancellations. So far, 80 percent of bookings have been cancelled. However, this is secondary. Whatever has happened is unfortunate. We have no regrets about the business; for us, the well-being of our guests is foremost. We hope the situation will improve soon,' said Mushtaq Ahmed Chaya, President of the Kashmir Hotels Association (KHA). The association held a press conference on Saturday with their business associates, in which travel and tour operators from other parts of the country participated. It was a confidence-building measure. Chaya, who is also the Founder and Chairman of The Mushtaq Hotel Group, said that the booming tourism in Kashmir was the result of joint efforts and years of hard work. 'The confidence in the whole country had declined over the last 30 years. And now, once again, our credibility has taken a hit. On Saturday, all the people who work with us from across the country had come. Still, there are a good number of tourists in Kashmir… I will say that time is the best healer,' he added. In 2024, about 29.5 lakh tourists visited the Valley, including 66,000 foreign nationals. The tourist season in Kashmir typically starts around March and lasts until August or September. During the season, the average monthly footfall is 2–3 lakh. As tourists are now calling off their plans to visit Kashmir, many hotels and restaurants, particularly in Pahalgam, have closed. Despite the slump in the Union Territory following the incident, industry leaders—including hoteliers and tour operators in the Valley—are hopeful of a resurgence in business. Rajiv Mehra, General Secretary of the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH), said that while some cancellations are inevitable, with support from all stakeholders, tourism will surely bounce back. 'FAITH stands shoulder to shoulder with our brothers and sisters in Jammu & Kashmir's tourism and hospitality sector. We share in their pain and reaffirm our unwavering support. The resilience of the people of Kashmir has always inspired us. Today, more than ever, they need our solidarity, compassion, and encouragement,' said Mehra. Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), also emphasized the need for unity in the tourism industry. 'Kashmiris are certainly resilient. I think we just need to stand together to condemn the attack and support them in every way we can—by supporting tourism. We'll have to work on making it a safe destination again,' she said.
