In a new industry development, Yoyogi Animation Academy, Starry Cube, and Andraft, led by renowned director Ryu Nakayama, have announced the establishment of a new anime production company, Aurora Animation Co., Ltd. An official website was also launched.
The newly formed studio aims to create a high-quality, creator-friendly environment while producing innovative animation content for both Japanese and global audiences.
A New Animation Studio with a Strong Foundation
Aurora Animation brings together three companies with unique expertise:
- Yoyogi Animation Academy, a leading educational institution in the anime and entertainment industry with a 47-year history of training talent.
- Starry Cube, a production company known for overseeing projects like Aharen-san wa Hakarenai and Dropkick on My Devil!.
- Andraft, an animation studio helmed by Ryu Nakayama, recognized for his work on hit anime titles such as Chainsaw Man and Jujutsu Kaisen.
With this collaboration, the three companies intend to bridge the gap between education, production, and cutting-edge animation techniques, ensuring a sustainable and supportive environment for creators.
ALSO READ:
Ryu Nakayama Appointed as Chief Creative Officer of Studio Mayflower
Andraft’s Background and Vision
In January 2024, Ryu Nakayama officially announced the establishment of Andraft, describing it as a “creative unit” focused on providing an innovative space where animators, background artists, and producers can work freely without the constraints of traditional production norms. The company quickly began recruiting talent and launched its official website.
Andraft’s first project was a promotional video for the collaboration between the trading card game Cardfight!! Vanguard and the VTuber group Vspo. Nakayama served as the director and storyboard artist for the video, while Studio Mew and HYBRIDLABO assisted with animation.
Nakayama is well-known for his directorial debut on Chainsaw Man, and he has an extensive background in animation. Some of the titles he was involved with include Jujutsu Kaisen, Sword Art Online, No Game No Life, One Punch Man, Kill la Kill, Black Clover, Rising of the Shield Hero, among many others. This season, he directed the opening for Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective, with Andraft credited for the production.
Studio Goals and Vision, Comments From Key Members
Aurora Animation aims to establish a workplace where animators can thrive creatively while maintaining high production standards. The studio is set to begin operations on April 1, 2025, with its preparatory office located in Chiyoda, Tokyo.
Daiki Hashimoto, President and CEO of Yoyogi Animation Academy and now also Aurora Animation, emphasized the need for an educational and production environment that adapts to industry changes.
Since its founding, Yoyogi Animation Academy has been dedicated to contributing to the Japanese animation industry through skill development and talent cultivation. However, seeing the industry’s recent transformations, I realized that to provide the necessary education for the future, we must gain deeper insights into the needs of creators and studios by engaging directly in production.
I am honored to establish this new animation production company in collaboration with Starry Cube, which has planned and produced numerous works, and Andraft, a studio known for its exceptional technical capabilities and dedication to creators. Through this venture, we aim to foster an environment where the next generation of creators can flourish, further advancing the industry.
Ryo Aizawa, President of Starry Cube and a director of Aurora Animation, highlighted the importance of valuing creators:
The word ‘anime’ originates from ‘anima,’ meaning ‘soul’ or ‘life.’ Each work carries the soul of its creators, bringing it to life. The process of creating something finite and irreversible is arduous yet truly precious. That is why I want creators to be fairly rewarded and find happiness in their work.
This is no easy task, but with Yoyogi Animation Academy’s nearly half-century of experience nurturing young creators and Andraft’s world-class technical excellence and human-centered approach, I believe we can make it a reality.
Ryu Nakayama, President of Andraft and a director of Aurora Animation, expressed his commitment to fostering a sustainable anime production environment:
I joined this project with the goal of improving the working environment in the anime industry and supporting the growth of young creators. By collaborating with Yoyogi Animation Academy, an educational institution, and Starry Cube, a production planning company, we aim to operate the studio from multiple perspectives.
We are committed to providing a stable production environment where creators can thrive while producing high-quality works. Our goal is to create a space where creators can grow with confidence and explore new creative possibilities.
Source: Andraft Official Website
ALSO READ:
CyberAgent Launches New Anime Studio, CA Soa
Masaaki Yuasa Founds New Animation Studio ame pippin with Aniplex, CoMix Wave Films, and Asmik Ace
Participate In Discussions