The world of Neon Genesis Evangelion is set to expand once more, thanks to a stunning announcement at the conclusion of the “Evangelion:30+; 30th Anniversary of Evangelion” festival. The event, held at Yokohama Arena from February 21st to 23rd, culminated in a surprise video and a breathtaking live cello and choral performance, revealing a brand-new series for the beloved franchise.
Yoko Taro at the Helm: A ‘Next Genesis’ Vision
This ambitious project, dubbed the franchise’s “Next Genesis,” is spearheaded by a powerhouse team of creative talent. Leading the charge is Yoko Taro, the acclaimed mind behind NieR:Automata, SINoALICE, and KamiErabi GOD.app. Taro’s unique storytelling approach and penchant for emotionally resonant narratives make him a perfect fit for the complex world of Evangelion.
Joining Taro are directors Kazuya Tsurumaki (known for his work on Rebuild of Evangelion and Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX) and Tōko Yatabe (assistant director on Evangelion: 3.0+1.0: Thrice Upon A Time and storyboarder/episode director for Chainsaw Man). The musical landscape will be shaped by Keiichi Okabe, the composer celebrated for his scores in the NieR franchise and Nisemonogatari. Production will be a collaborative effort between Studio Khara and CloverWorks, ensuring a high level of animation quality and artistic vision.
Highlights from the 30th Anniversary Festival
The “Evangelion:30+; 30th Anniversary of Evangelion” festival was a celebration of the franchise’s enduring legacy. A key highlight was the exclusive premiere of “Evangelion Broadcast 30th Anniversary Special Screening,” a brand-new 13-minute anime short featuring Asuka. Fans were also treated to a special performance by Yoko Takahashi, the iconic voice behind the opening theme of the original Neon Genesis Evangelion television series, delivering an “Eva Fes Ver.” of her “Back to Neon Genesis” concert series.
The festival also offered a preview of the upcoming Kabuki Kōkyōkyoku Dai Kyū-ban Evangelion (Kabuki Symphony No. 9 Evangelion) stage production, showcasing the franchise’s ability to transcend mediums and captivate audiences in new and innovative ways.
The announcement of this new series marks an exciting chapter for Evangelion, promising a fresh perspective on a story that has resonated with generations of fans. With Yoko Taro leading the creative charge, the “Next Genesis” is poised to deliver a truly unforgettable experience. Stay tuned for further updates as more details about the project are revealed. You can find more information about the festival and the franchise on the official Evangelion website.
