User:Dronicus/sandbox

Motaku is an annual anime convention based in Kansas City, Missouri typically held in mid-August. For 2012, the convention will be held at the Holiday Inn CoCo Key Water Resort from Friday, August 17th to Sunday, August 19th. The convention is organized by Matt Weston and Jared Presler and has been active for four years.

Programming
The convention includes a variety of programming including panels on a variety of anime and animation topics, modern and retro video gaming, and industry guests including voice actor Kyle Hebert and Funimation's Sophie McNutt. For the past three years, the convention has featured Daniel Coglan, a professional Samurai martial artist who provides demonstrations for convention guests and lessons on Japanese culture. The convention also includes a cosplay contest and vendor area.

History
Motaku was founded in 2009 and has grown steadily from 360 attendees to over 800 in 2011. Originally held at the Park Place Hotel in Kansas City, it has since moved to CoCo Key Resort to handle the additional capacity.

Organization
Motaku staff consists of an all volunteer board lead by Matt Weston and Jared Presler. Additional volunteers are brought to handle roles ranging from registration to security on an as needed basis. The convention has no restrictions on who can apply to be a volunteer.