Sharjah is set to dazzle animation fans this May with the return of the highly anticipated Sharjah Animation Conference (SAC), now in its third year. Scheduled to run from May 1 to 4 at the iconic Expo Centre Sharjah, the event promises a whirlwind of inspiration, education, and creativity. What sets this year’s event apart is the inclusion of world-renowned artists from two of the most beloved animation houses—Studio Ghibli and Disney.
Fans of Japanese animation will be thrilled to learn that acclaimed Studio Ghibli collaborators Masayuki Miyaji and Tamiya Terashima are attending the event. Miyaji, known for his directorial work on Tales from Earthsea, and Terashima, the music composer for several iconic Ghibli films, are expected to offer fans exclusive insights into their work, artistic process, and the magic behind some of the studio’s most enduring masterpieces.
A Meeting of East and West in Animation
This year’s SAC isn’t just about Japanese animation. It will also host some of the biggest names in Western animation. Leading the lineup are Tom Bancroft and Tony Bancroft, two brothers whose work has shaped the childhoods of millions through Disney’s timeless films. Tom, the CEO of Pencilish Animation Studios, is known for his contributions to The Lion King, Mulan, and Pocahontas, while Tony served as co-director of Mulan and has animated for The Emperor’s New Groove and Aladdin.
Adding even more star power to the event is Sandro Cleuzo, a legendary character designer and animator. His work includes contributions to beloved classics such as Anastasia, Tarzan, and Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers. Cleuzo’s presence at SAC brings a deeper dive into character development, design philosophy, and how animators breathe life into their characters.
Why the Sharjah Animation Conference Matters
While comic cons and fan festivals are popular across the world, SAC stands out due to its focus on artistic integrity, education, and cultural exchange. Organized by the Sharjah Book Authority and curated by Executive Director Khoula Al Mujaini in collaboration with Artistic Director Pietro Pinettie, the event blends the vibrancy of animation with intellectual depth and cross-cultural dialogue.
This unique vision has positioned the Sharjah Animation Conference as a major fixture in the global animation calendar. With its inclusive programming and prestigious lineup, SAC goes beyond being just a fan event—it’s a melting pot of global creativity, a hub for learning, and a celebration of animation as an art form.
Program Highlights and What to Expect
The conference will feature panel discussions, live workshops, interactive sessions, screenings, and Q&A opportunities with the attending artists. These sessions aim to connect budding artists, students, professionals, and animation enthusiasts with some of the most seasoned creators in the industry.
Workshops led by the Ghibli and Disney guests are expected to cover everything from storyboarding and character design to the intricacies of animation scoring and directing. For instance, Miyaji may walk participants through how a scene from Spirited Away evolves from sketches to a moving masterpiece. Meanwhile, Terashima might delve into composing emotionally rich soundtracks that become as iconic as the visuals they accompany.
Tom and Tony Bancroft’s sessions are likely to focus on traditional animation techniques, navigating the animation industry, and even advice for aspiring creators hoping to make a mark in the world of animation.
Global Trends and Local Impact
SAC also comes at a time when AI-generated art, including AI-created Ghibli-style visuals, is sparking debate online. From questions about authenticity to the ethical use of AI in creative fields, these discussions are particularly relevant in today’s animation landscape. The presence of traditional artists like Cleuzo and the Bancroft brothers allows for a thoughtful contrast and richer conversation around the future of animation.
Beyond the artistic value, events like SAC have a significant cultural and economic impact. Sharjah, already known as a cultural hub in the UAE, is further enhancing its position on the global creative map. Events like this not only drive tourism but also nurture local talent and encourage youth to pursue creative careers—aligning with the UAE’s broader vision for a knowledge-based, diversified economy.
How to Participate and Be Inspired
Whether you’re a student curious about character animation or an artist hoping to break into the industry, SAC offers a rare opportunity to connect directly with some of the best in the field. Entry details, ticketing information, and schedules are available through the official Sharjah Book Authority channels. Given the global recognition of the guests and the wide array of sessions, early registration is recommended.
SAC is not just another pop culture event—it’s a celebration of stories, emotions, and the powerful ways in which animation connects us all. It reminds us that behind every frame of our favorite films are real people with incredible skills and deeply personal journeys.
