FAQ

FAQ

SMASH! On the Day

What is SMASH!?

SMASH! Sydney Manga and Anime Show is an annual Japanese popular culture convention held in Sydney, Australia. SMASH Inc, is a registered non-profit volunteer-run association this means we are truly run by fans for fans.

When is SMASH! 2019?

SMASH! 2019 will be on Saturday 13 July & Sunday 14 July 2019.

Where is SMASH! 2019?

SMASH! 2019 will be held at the ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre. It is located in the heart of Darling Harbour at 14 Darling Dr, Sydney NSW Australia 2000.

How do I get to SMASH! 2019?

There are various public and private transport options as well as car parking facilities at ICC Sydney and the surrounding area. For more information, please refer to our page: Getting to ICC Sydney.

When are your opening hours?

The opening hours for SMASH! 2019 will be as follows:

Saturday 13th July
  • Opening time for presales ticket holders: 9:00am
  • Opening time for those buying on-the-day: 9:30am
  • Closing time: 6pm
Sunday 14th July
  • Opening time for presales ticket holders: 9:00am
  • Opening time for those buying on-the-day: 9:30am
  • Closing time: 5pm

Attendees who have purchased their tickets prior to the convention (either online or at one of our pop-up booths) will be let into the venue half an hour earlier than those buying at the door!

Am I too young or too old to enter SMASH!?

You are never too young or too old to enter SMASH! However, persons under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Children aged 7 or under may enter free with a paying adult.

Can I bring a carer with me? Do you accept Companion Cards?

If you hold a current and valid Companion Card, your carer may accompany you on the day for free! On the day, please show both your ticket and Companion Card to our staff, and we’ll provide your carer with a free pass. If you are purchasing a ticket online or at one of our pre-convention pop-up booths,only purchase a ticket for yourself!

Can I bring an assistance animal?

Yes, bringing a registered service animal is fine! Please note that you may be asked to produce a registration certificate for your animal so please bring your certification with you.

Do you have pensioners, child or concession tickets?

At SMASH!, prices for all ticket types are the same for all attendees regardless of age. However, if you have a current and valid Companion Card and/or plan on bringing small children to the convention, please see our friendly staff on the day and we will try to sort something out for you!

Do tickets include free travel on public transport?

Unfortunately, your ticket does not include free travel on public transport to and from the venue.

ONLINE SALES

When do online ticket sales open?

Sunday, 31st March 2019 10AM (AEST)

When do online ticket sales close?

Sunday, 30th June 2019 11:59PM (AEST)

Are there any advantages to pre-purchasing a ticket?

Pre-purchase tickets holders not only get to benefit from a reduced ticket price, but they also gain access to the convention 30 minutes earlier than those purchasing tickets on the day.

What payment methods do you accept online?

You can purchase tickets online using your credit or debit VISA or Mastercard.

If you wish to pay via cash, please keep an eye out on our social media for our pop-up booths for alternative payment options.

What ticket should I buy? Single day or the Weekend bundle?

We would highly recommend the Weekend ticket in case you miss out on some of our more popular events and activities, such as our guest signings, panels, and of course, Maid Cafe!

If you only wish to attend one day of the Convention, you are more than welcome to purchase a single Saturday or Sunday general admission ticket. Please bear in mind that your tickets will only allow entry to the Convention for the dates specified.

Please keep your Weekend ticket PDF handy as it will be required for entry on both days!

Why do you charge a ticket handling fee?

As SMASH! is a not-for-profit organisation which is organised by a great team of volunteers, by the fans for the fans, the handling fee allows us to provide online booking services so you can secure your ticket online before the convention. Without this fee the cost would be passed onto other areas of the convention and limit the large amount of completely free content that SMASH! has on offer.

Why do I need to provide my details to place an order?

Your details will allow us to issue your ticket and receipts correctly. If there's a problem with your order, it will also help us verify your identity. If you do forget your ticket or it doesn't work on the day, we can check your ID and sort things out for you! Please ensure you use your full legal name and double check for spelling mistakes!

I’m from overseas, do I use my home address?

Yes - please enter your home residential address, so if you lose your ticket we can verify your purchase.

I want to buy lots of tickets. Do I have to fill out the form lots of times?

We are introducing an account system this year. Once you create an account, you will be able to purchase multiple tickets in one order! Your order will also be saved under your account and can be reviewed at any time, so we highly recommend creating an account to save your purchases.

Please check that you add the names of all the people you’re ordering tickets for. Unfortunately we are unable to offer group discounts on any of our tickets.

If you choose to check out as a Guest, you will be required to create a new order for each ticket you wish to buy.

How will I get my tickets?

After we have processed your payment successfully, you will receive a confirmation email outlining your order number and total amount paid.

Your tickets will be sent to your email at a later date closer to SMASH! 2019. We will make an announcement on our social media accounts when this happens. Once you receive your tickets, simply print out all pages and bring them with you to the Convention. Please note that processing times on tickets can take some time so you may not receive your ticket immediately when we make the announcement.

If I buy tickets for other people, does everyone need to arrive at the convention at the same time?

Nope! Each person you order a ticket for will have their own personalised ticket. You could, for example, send your friends’ ticket PDF file to them who can print their own ticket and meet them inside the Convention if you are making separate ways to the venue.

Can I scan my ticket barcode on my mobile device?

To avoid any delays or issues, we strongly recommend you to print out your ticket. Otherwise, please kindly turn up your mobile device screen brightness to help us with the scanning.

I lost my ticket email! Can you please send me another?

Once tickets are sent out, you will also be able to download them from your SMASH! account page.

If you checked-out as guest, you will need to contact our team to get a new ticket issued to you.

I’ve bought my tickets online but I haven’t received them!

After we have processed your payment successfully, you will receive a confirmation email outlining your order number and total amount paid.

Your tickets will be sent to your email at a later date closer to SMASH! 2019. We will make an announcement on our social media accounts when this happens. Once you receive your tickets, simply print out all pages and bring them with you to the Convention. Please note that processing times on tickets can take some time so you may not receive your ticket immediately when we make the announcement.

Can I upgrade my pre-purchased ticket?

We are currently working on improving our ticketing system to provide more features for 2019. Please bear with us and we will make an announcement on our social media when features become available.

Downgrades and exchanges are generally not allowed under our Ticketing Policy. Please consider your purchase carefully.

One of my friends can't make it. Can I give the ticket to another friend?/I can't make it. Can I let someone else use my ticket?

We are currently working on improving our ticketing system to provide more features for 2019. Please bear with us and we will make an announcement on our social media when features become available.

Do you offer special discounts or deals for groups?

At SMASH!, prices for all ticket types are the same for all attendees whether they are purchasing tickets together or individually. However, please ensure the details and tickets for each member of your group are correct before purchasing in the event that there is a problem with your order!

What is your policy on refunds?

SMASH! does not generally offer refunds on ticket purchases. Please read our Ticketing Policy.

Photography & Videos

Can I take photos and videos at SMASH!?

Yes! You can take photos and videos at SMASH! just like every other year. This means that photography and videography on Levels 3, 4 & 5 and the Event Deck of the ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre are welcomed and encouraged.

Please note that photos and videos are NOT permitted in certain areas such as the Maid Cafe, VIP areas, and Workshop rooms, as well as STAFF ONLY and back of house areas.

As a courtesy, please remember to ask for cosplayers’ permission before you take a photo or video of them!

If you are taking photos and videos at Tumbalong Park or any area outside the ICC building you will need to get a free permit from the City of Sydney Council through the link below or you may be asked to move on by Council Rangers:

Filming & Photography permits

What defines professional grade photography?

For the purpose of the convention, equipment that is approximately 1.2 metres or longer in length (e.g. stands, tripods) are considered to be professional grade photography equipment and should be checked in at the Cosplay Check-In Booth when inside the convention for the safety of others. Please be rest assured that you will be able to retrieve your professional equipment at any time that you wish to take photos or videos within the hallways of Level 3, 4 & 5 and on the Event Deck. However, they will need to be checked in again when returning into the exhibition halls.

As a general rule of thumb, anything other than a quick selfie is considered to be professional grade photography.

Please note that inside SMASH! convention areas professional photography is allowed and encouraged. However, if you obstruct the flow of traffic by stopping and setting up a shot at any time, you will be asked to move along.

Is professional grade photography or videography allowed in areas outside of the convention?

Since SMASH! 2019 only encompasses levels 3, 4 & 5 and the Event Deck, levels 1 and 2 are strictly off-limits and you will be asked to leave by Security Officers within these areas.

If you are stopping and setting up a shot with a model or group of people outside of ICC Sydney, you will need a permit from the City of Sydney or you may be asked to move on by Council Rangers.

Please note that under no circumstances will a Security Officer or Council Ranger confiscate your camera or equipment.

For further questions, please kindly contact City of Sydney and/or Property NSW directly

Do I need public liability insurance to apply for a photography pass?

Public liability insurance is only to protect small businesses in the case that a member of the public is hurt or injured while the business is providing services which should not be necessary for most attendees. However, if you do intend to perform photography or videography outside of the convention, you may need to as part of the City of Sydney filming and photography permit application.

Cosplay Enquiries

What is cosplay?

Cosplay is the abbreviated form of ‘costume play’. It is the act of dressing up as your favourite character from an anime, manga or video game and showing the community your passion for the particular character or series.

Do I have to come in cosplay?

Cosplay is not mandatory. Whether you’re dressed casually or in cosplay, all we ask you enjoy yourself at SMASH!

Are there any cosplay restrictions?

Public exposure of genitalia, buttocks or breasts (in the case of women) are not permitted. SMASH Inc reserves the right to deem a costume you are wearing unacceptable and request you make modifications as necessary. Please visit our Code of Conduct page for more information.

Can I bring weapons as props?

Weapons are not acceptable within the Convention. Please see our Props Policy for details on what is and isn’t allowed.

Can I bring X into the convention?

Any prop that is greater than 1.2m in length or a piece of a cosplay or costume that exceeds a 50cm radius around the body (wings, body armour, etc.) will need to be taken off and checked-in at the Cosplay Check-In Booth for the safety of others.

Collapsible props will be measured at their full length and may be allowed into the venue on the condition that it is not opened indoors. Please note that this is largely dependent on the individual characteristics of the prop

Please see our Props Policy for details on what is and isn’t allowed.

This policy is only applicable within the premises of the Convention. If you chose to stay outside the venue buildings, the ‘1.2m prop length rule’ and the ’50cm body radius rule’ will not apply. Once you enter exhibition halls, the above mentioned rules will apply.

I have a prop that can shoot X projectile, eg a toy gun or a bow as part of my cosplay, can I bring it into the convention?

Items that shoot a projectile, for example toy guns, must have both an orange tip and have their projectiles removed upon entry. Depending on the toy or prop gun itself, it may need to be checked-in.

Will there be a cloak room or anywhere I can drop my luggage?

SMASH! Will not be providing a cloak room. The Prop Check-in Desk is for Cosplay Props ONLY. We will not be taking in suitcases, prams, bags or any other personal items on the day of the event.

EVENTS

Will certain events be occurring?

At this point of time, SMASH! is still planning lots and lots of fun events for the big day! Keep your eyes on this website because we’ll be announcing events as soon as they’re ready!

Are the events free?

Most of our events are covered by the cost of your ticket! Any event which has additional costs on top of your SMASH! ticket purchase will be advertised as such.

VENDOR Enquiries

I want to join the Artist Market, be an Exhibitor or have a Community Club table. Where do I apply?

Applications for vendors will opening and closing at different times in the lead up to the convention. Please check out Get Involved Page for more details on individual applications.

When will I be notified of whether or not I got accepted?

Artist market response emails will be sent out no later than early April, you will be getting an email whether or not you got accepted into the SMASH! 2019 artist market.

How many chairs/tables will I get?

Please check the Artist Market page for this information.

How many artist passes will I get?

Please check the Artist Market page for this information.

Will I need to provide my own high-vis during setup and packup?

Yes! SMASH! will not be providing high-vis vests for artists before or after the convention.

Do the exhibitors at SMASH! sell fake figurines, toys, DVDs, CDs, etc.?

The selling of bootleg and illegal merchandise at the Convention is prohibited. We conduct thorough bootleg inspections before the event to make sure that no exhibitors sell these items and our attendees can be sure to purchase authentic products.

VOLUNTEER Enquiries

How will I know I have been accepted into volunteering for SMASH!?

Registration for 2018 on-the-day volunteers (SMASH! Crew) have now closed.

If you have applied but have not heard back, please send an Volunteer Enquiry via our Contact page(link).

If you have just missed out this year, we encourage you to check back early next year for 2019 applications!

What is the minimum age to volunteer at SMASH!?

At the time of your application, you must be 16 years or older to volunteer. The exception to this is for Maid Cafe, where you have to be 18 years or older at the time of your application to volunteer. If you are under the age of 18, you will need parental consent to participate at SMASH!.

Is food and drink provided?

All volunteers are provided with lunch and water on Saturday and Sunday of the SMASH! convention. We will try our best to cater to any dietary requirements but please remember to tell us in your application.

Do we get breaks? I want my break at a specific time, is this possible?

YES! We all need breaks during the day and we will try our best to cater to time specific breaks. However, with a large volume of volunteers to consider, options may be restricted.

Do I have to volunteer both days? Can I volunteer with my friend?

You do not have to volunteer for both days and you are welcome to apply with your friend. We want you to enjoy the convention as much as you can, however please understand that there are many different tasks on the day and there is no guarantee that both you and your friend will be accepted together in the same section.

I live interstate. Can I still volunteer?

We accept volunteers based on their applications as long as you are currently living in Australia.

I can’t speak English too well. Can I still volunteer?

We welcome everyone! Your selection is based on how well you respond to the questions on the form, so please take your time filling it out.

Can I volunteer and cosplay at the same time?

Definitely! All volunteers have the option to cosplay so long as it does not interfere with your assigned role.

Do I get paid during the event?

SMASH! is a non-profit organisation run by fans for fans! No volunteers receive monetary compensation. We are all volunteers, even the President and the Chairperson!

Can I get a guest signing done on the day?

Every volunteer is allocated breaks and you are more than welcome to attend any scheduled events or signings during that time but there is no expectation that volunteers will be able to obtain a guest signing by volunteering at SMASH!.

Are there any requirements to become a SMASH! volunteer?

At the time of your application, you must be 16 years or older to volunteer. The exception to this is for Maid Cafe, where you have to be 18 years or older at the time of your application to volunteer. If you are under the age of 18, you will need parental consent to participate at SMASH!. You must also be currently living in Australia.

I've never had any work or volunteer experience. Can I still apply?

You can apply to being a SMASH! volunteer without any experience. We are looking for fun and responsible people to join our ranks.

Are there any benefits for becoming a SMASH! volunteer?

As a SMASH! volunteer, you will be entitled to free entry for both days, food and water, as well as being presented with a SMASH! Volunteer Certificate upon completion of your volunteer duties. We often invite volunteers to do more for the organisation and encourage them to apply to be permanent staff members so that they can contribute in more ways for next year’s convention!

So Training Day is compulsory – if I do not attend the compulsory training, what happens then?

We will provide you with all essential training. The training days are compulsory. If you can not attend the training days and do not provide us with an adequate reason, we will unfortunately have to discontinue your status as a SMASH! volunteer.

Can I choose which department I wish to volunteer in?

You can select your preferences to the department you wish to volunteer for. However, keep in mind that with so many volunteers, you may not be allocated to your first preference, in which case you’d be allocated to your second, or third. Your allocation is dependent on our volunteer requirements.

I want to clarify a personal problem. Who do I contact?

Feel free to contact via ourContact page. We are here to answer any and all questions you have about cats and of course volunteering.

What jobs am I expected to do on the day?

Volunteers will be assigned to a department during the convention. Volunteer duties vary from department to department. Please visit our Volunteer page for further information regarding each department.

Guest Events FAQ

Do I have to pay for the guest signing or selfie event?

No! Any guest signing or selfie event held by SMASH! in the Signing Area is free of charge as long as you have the correct wristband. However, in saying that, there might be other “paid” meet and greet opportunities for the guest available during convention weekend.

Do I need different wristbands for each guest and how many can I get?

Yes, each guest requires a specific wristband (separate wristband for signing and selfie event). There are 11 different wristbands available in total. Attendees are allowed to get 1 wristband for each guest meaning a maximum of 11 per attendee. However, in saying that, please do not monopolise the wristbands and give opportunity for other fans to meet and greet the guest.

  • Baozi & Hana – Signing, Selfie Event
  • King – Signing, Selfie Event
  • Chihiro & Haneame – Signing, Selfie Event
  • Mizushima Seiji – Signing Only
  • Suda Goichi – Signing Only
  • Orikasa Fumiko – Signing Only
  • Abe Atsushi – Signing Only
  • Toriumi Kosuke – Signing Only

Ayasa will be having a signing session after her performance at the music stage – which is only available with the purchase of her CDs only.

Do I need a wristband for the selfie event and how many can I get?

Yes, there is a separate wristband for the selfie event featuring the cosplayer guests: Baozi & Hana, King, Chihiro & Haneame. Attendees are allowed to get 1 wristband for each guest meaning a maximum of 3 per attendee.

Will - The Anime Man / Tamura Junichiro / Dear Kiss - have signing/selfie events?

These guests will have their own special events on the weekend so please look out for more information on our SMASH! event guide!

Will Kugimiya Rie have signing/selfie events?

Kugimiya Rie won’t have a signing session at Signing Area. But don’t get sad yet!

Attend her Stage and Panel events and you will be in for a special surprise!

Can I get the signing or selfie wristband for my friend?

Unfortunately, the wristbands are not transferable so, if you have the wristband you must get the autograph or selfie. If there are any signs of the wristband being transferred (e.g. damaged, etc), it may be regarded as invalid and you won’t be eligible for entry for the signing session or selfie event at the discretion of the SMASH! staff in charge of the guest signings in the Signing Area.

I am a crew volunteer in SMASH!. Where and how can I get signing or selfie wristbands?

A limited number of wristbands will be available exclusively for our crew volunteers. These will be issued by the SMASH! staff in charge of crew coordination from our Department of People Services (DPS). Please contact our Department of People Services staff member to collect your wristband on the day of the convention. Please note that as a crew volunteer you won’t be eligible to receive any wristband by being in the same queue as general attendees.

I am an exhibitor/vendor in SMASH!. Where and how can I get signing or selfie wristbands?

A limited number of wristbands will be available exclusively for our exhibitors/vendors. These will be issued by the SMASH! staff from our Exhibitors and Sponsorship Department. Please contact our Exhibitors and Sponsorship staff member to collect your wristband on the day of the convention.
Please note that as an exhibitor you won’t be eligible to receive any wristband by being in the same queue as general attendees.

I am a ticket or pass “X” holder in SMASH!. Where and how can I get signing or selfie wristbands?

If you are attending SMASH! and if you hold a ticket (or pass) that is neither a staff/crew or attendee or exhibitor/vendor, you must line up along with the attendees when the convention opens. You are not allowed to line up before the attendees.
If you have a question, please see the SMASH! staff in charge of the guest signings in the Signing Area.

I missed out on signing or selfie wristband in the morning. Is there no way for me to get the autograph or selfie photo?

Unfortunately, most of the wristbands are depleted in less than 1 hour of opening. However, we may have some additional wristbands available depending on the situation so, please ask the SMASH! staff in charge of the guest signings in the Signing Area. Announcements will also be made on the day to alert you of any updates with the wristbands and their availability.

I have more than 1 wristband and their times clash. What should I do?

In order to give the greatest number of fans the opportunity to meet the guest, some of our signing sessions and selfie event may have clashing time periods. We ask that you must take responsibility of your own schedule to be present at each session/event. If you are unable to make one of the signing sessions due to time clash, SMASH! will not be liable to give any special consideration.

If you are already in the queue to wait for multiple guests of same signing session and selfie event, please ask the SMASH! staff in charge of the guest signings in the Signing Area for their instructions.

I got a signing or selfie wristband from Saturday, but I missed. Can I use it for Sunday?

The wristbands are assigned for each day and so, they are not transferable to the next day. You will have to collect a new and valid wristband again the next day.

How many item(s) can I get signed by the guest?

You are limited to receiving an autograph for ONE ITEM PER PERSON WITH CORRECT SIGNING WRISTBAND. Please note that the wristband is not transferrable to another attendee. If you have a question, please see the SMASH! staff in charge of the guest signings in the Signing Area.

What type of pens will be available for guests to use for signing?

On the day, guests will have a choice of three colours – black, silver, and gold – permanent markers.

When should I be there for the signing session?

In order to ensure the safety of you and your fellow attendees, we ask that you line up no more than 30 minutes prior to the signing session. We also ask you to be at the signing session no later than 30 minutes prior to the end of signing session. Signing sessions may end earlier than scheduled time period at the discretion of the SMASH! staff in charge of the guest signings.

Can I get my signed item personalised by the guest?

Yes you can, unless a specific limit is placed by a particular guest! As you enter the signing line 30 minutes before the signing session, SMASH! staff in the area will clearly write your name for you on a Post-it Note. If we missed you, please ask our friendly SMASH! staff in the Signing Area to get a Post-it Note with your name.

Due to time constraints, please limit any form of written personalisation request to a name only. This includes, but not limited to, asking the guest to add small art or phrases related to their roles.

I do not have an item to get signed. Do you have something that I can get an autograph?

Yes! At all of our official signing sessions, you have the option to get a *free* SMASH! board (which is a blank paper board) where you can get an autograph from the guest.

Please remember that you are limited to receiving an autograph for ONE ITEM PER PERSON WITH CORRECT AND VALID SIGNING WRISTBAND.

What can I get autographed and what can’t I get autographed?

You may bring an item that is any official and licensed merchandise of the guest. If you are not sure, please ask the SMASH! staff in charge of the guest signings in the Signing Area. Please note that guests will not sign bootlegged or unlicensed merchandises.

  • Cosplayer Guests: Baozi & Hana, King, Chihiro & Haneame will only be signing their own merchandise (which is also available for purchase in the Guest Merchandise Booth in Signing Area) or *free* SMASH! posters.
  • Ayasa: Ayasa will be only signing her CD (available for purchase after her music stage).
  • Other Guests: Only be signing the official and licensed merchandise of the guest or *free* SMASH! board (which is a blank paper board)

Please be mindful of your item of choice as the guests may decline any items that are of body parts, fan art, clothing or props, and items with depictions of lewd or suggestive imagery. If you have any questions about an item you want autographed, please ask the SMASH! staff in charge of the guest signings in the Signing Area.

Please remember that you are limited to receiving an autograph for ONE ITEM PER PERSON WITH CORRECT SIGNING WRISTBAND so please think carefully about your choice!

When should I be there for the selfie event?

In order to ensure the safety of you and your fellow attendees, we ask that you line up no more than 30 minutes prior to the selfie event. We also ask you to be at the selfie event no later than 15 minutes prior to the end of selfie event. Selfie event may end earlier than scheduled time period at the discretion of the SMASH! staff in charge of the guest signings.

Can I take a group selfie photo with the guest?

In order for you to take a group selfie with the guest, everyone in the group must have the valid selfie event wristband. Please remember that you must have a CORRECT AND VALID WRISTBAND to get a selfie photo with the guest.

I have a gift for the guest. How can I give it to them?

Guests appreciate these small gestures, but please avoid anything large or bulky, heavy as most guests fly quite a distance to appear at SMASH!, and may have limited space in their luggage. Any gifts you bring should be small, durable, and easily packed. Please note that no food items will be accepted. If you have brought something special for the guest, such as a personal note or a small gift, we ask that you follow guidelines for practical and safety reasons.

  • If you have an item to present as a gift to the guest, please bring them with you to the signing session.
  • If you have a correct signing wristband, you may surrender the item once you reach the signing table to the SMASH! staff who will collect and present it to the guest on your behalf.
  • If you do not have a correct signing wristband, you may still present a gift to the guest by asking SMASH! staff in the Signing Area who will collect and present it to the guest on your behalf.

Please note that SMASH! staff reserves the right to reject the gift on behalf of the guest. If you have a question about policy and procedures, please see the SMASH! staff in charge of the guest signings in the Signing Area.

Can I take photos / audios / videos of the guests?

Any form of photography and audio/video recording of the guest(s) is prohibited at all times in the Signing Area with the exception of authorised media personnel from SMASH! only.

Of course, the attendees with the CORRECT WRISTBAND for the selfie event can take a selfie photo with the guest as part of the event.

Please note that different rules may apply in other guest events such as panels and workshops and you must follow these rules accordingly depending on the event. Please ask the SMASH! staff if you have any questions or unsure about the rules.

What kind of interaction with the guest(s) is allowed at the signing table?

While attendees are encouraged to converse with guests such as a simple and brief comment (e.g. hi, hello, thank you), we ask all attendees to refrain from requesting any actions or other forms of interaction from the guest. Please be mindful of other attendees in the line so that the queue can move efficiently. Any inappropriate physical contact with the guests is strictly prohibited.

SMASH! staff reserve the right to refuse access to any attendee who fails to follow the rules or attempts to circumvent them. If you have a question about policy and procedures, please see the SMASH! staff in charge of the guest signings in the Signing Area.

I LOVE ANISONG Concert

How much do tickets cost?

If you wanted the best seats to view the concert and a special limited event, limited VIP passes will be available for $225*. The Anisong General and Weekend Bundle is also available for $105*. Otherwise, if you’re after the concert only, tickets are available for $55* (*does not include handling fee of 2%)

Where is the concert?

The concert will be held at the Darling Harbour Theatre, located in the same vicinity! Look for the signs and ushers if you’re already there.

How old do I have to be to attend?

The SMASH! hosted I LOVE ANISONG concert is open to all ages. However while persons under 16 are allowed to attend they will require the presence of a guardian with a valid ticket.

Will there be another next year?

In future years SMASH! hopes to continually deliver offerings with a greater emphasis on music in its range.

Can I bring food/water into the venue?

We kindly ask that all food and drinks be consumed prior to entering the ICC grounds.

Who will be performing? Will there be any more performers coming?

To check out the artists for the I LOVE ANISONG event and find out about them please head to https://smash.org.au/anisong/. Follow our Facebook page for the latest announcements too!

Can I suggest an artist?

SMASH! would love to receive feedback and suggestions from its fans. If you have any suggestions or requests on who you’d like to see at future events please submit a survey form, which we’ll be more than happy to read.

When does the concert start?

The concert is scheduled to start at approximately 19:00. The doors will open from 18:00.

What are the differences between the tickets?

The VIP Experience bundle includes entry to SMASH! convention on both Saturday & Sunday as well as extras such as intimate exclusive VIP Event with the guests, as well as the best seats to view the concert.

The Anisong General and Weekend Bundle will also include access to both days of the SMASH! event and designated seating, while Anisong General Seating will only allow you access to the concert itself with designated seating.

Note: VIP Addon bundle includes VIP perks, such as the VIP Event and front row seating at the concert, but does not include entry to SMASH! Convention.

Will there be anywhere to store my items?

Yes, the Cloak Room on the Ground Floor of Convention Centre building will be open during and after the Anisong concert.

Will they sign my stuff? Do I have to buy merch?

Your VIP package includes a free signed item from the artist of your signing session. Unfortunately, there will be no opportunities to have your personal items signed.

Can I throw things at the stage?

As a courtesy to our artists SMASH! asks concert patrons to refrain from behaviour that may impede the concert experience for others. As such SMASH! will not be allowing objects to be thrown onto the stage and reserves the right to eject persons from the premises if it poses a danger to artists or fellow patrons.

Where do I wait in line?

There will be a number of queuing points on the day for the I LOVE ANISONG concert. The first of these being at the wristband exchange which will have separate lines for each of the three ticket classes, so make sure you are queued in the correct line. The second queuing area will be located inside the exhibition hall itself and will be divided by ticket class. At both locations staff will be present to assist customers with the process.

Where are the toilets?

There will be toilets located on each floor of Darling Harbour Theatre and it’s surroundings. Look for the signage or ask staff for the closest one to you.

When can I get into the venue?

The venue doors are scheduled to open at 18.00. Patrons can start lining up from 15:00 and ticket sales will be available throughout the day. Ticket scanning starts from 16:00.

When can I leave the venue?

Concert attendees are allowed to leave the concert area at any time. Please have your ticket information with you to ensure a smoother re-entry.

Disabled access?

The ICC is fully equipped to cater for anyone requiring extra assistance. Feel free to reach out to any staff and they will be glad to help! Please note that Companions will still be required to purchase a ticket for the concert.

When do doors open?

The venue doors are scheduled to open at 18.00 beginning with VIP entries!

Can I dress in costume?

While SMASH! would normally ask to it’s patrons to dress in costume without much thought, we advise customers to consider that in a concert setting you will most likely become hot. That’s to say we welcome you coming in costume but be wary and stay hydrated!

If I stay back, can I meet the performers?

Whilst SMASH! encourages fans to show their support and dedication to the artists, we’ll be asking patrons to exit the premises after the event is finished. The VIP packages can offer you exclusive access to special events related to the artists before the concert only.

Can I buy tickets on the day?

Tickets, especially those with allocated seating, are strictly limited so be sure to buy your tickets earlier to avoid disappointment! Better seating locations will also be allocated on a first come first served basis.

I've lost my concert ticket on the day? What do I do?

If you’ve lost your ticket on the day of the event please approach concert staff who will verify your order electronically. Be sure to carry identification with you on the day so we can identify you to your ticket.

Will I be able to take any photographs or recordings?

SMASH! will not be allowing customers to take photographs or recordings as per the request of our artists. SMASH! staff will be policing this on the day so we ask patrons to respect the artists wishes.

Can I bring my prop along?

Any props displaying rude of profane material will be confiscated, as will any other props not conforming to SMASH!’s code of conduct. Please note that by purchasing I Love Anisong Tickets, you agree to the following terms and conditions – All oversized items will need to be cloaked on ground floor of convention centre building.

Can I wave lightsticks?

Yes, attendees will be allowed and are encouraged to wave lightsticks at the concert. If you have the VIP package we’ll even prepare one for you!

How will I get my ticket?

You will be emailed your PDF ticket with allocated seating and any additional information such as VIP events for VIP ticket holders in the few weeks leading to the event. Don’t worry! it’s coming. Please do note that seat allocations are automatic and will priorities those who buy their tickets first.

Where do I go for the VIP event?

Please refer to your ticket PDF emailed to you for the most accurate information, and way to redeem VIP event sessions.

Will there be an encore?

Unfortunately SMASH! is under strict provisions to have the event end on time. As such there will not be an encore performance.

Where can I buy tickets?

You can buy tickets at https://tickets.smash.org.au/.

Can I get a refund?

SMASH! does not generally offer ticket refunds except in exceptional circumstances. To initiate this process and see whether you qualify please contact us at https://smash.org.au/contact/.

What can I bring into the concert?

While water and personal items are allowed inside, we would like to ask for food to be consumed prior to entering. Large items must be stored in the Cloak Room on the Ground Floor. All rules which apply to the SMASH! convention also apply to the concert. To read more on the rules governing the convention please visit Anisong Terms & Conditions

Do I have to print out my ticket?

Our scanners will be able to scan your barcode displayed from your digital device. However, it wouldn’t hurt to have a paper copy with you on the day in case!

Can I join the VIP sessions if there is room?

We are expecting full capacity for VIP events so we will not be catering for those not part of the VIP Package. We highly suggest purchasing the VIP Package to avoid disappointment.

I'd like to change/upgrade my ticket. What do I do?

Customers may upgrade their ticket up until the close of presale tickets. We have prepared a step by step guide on how to upgrade your tickets.

After, SMASH! allows customers to change the name to be printed on the ticket but not their ticket type. To change your name please contact us.

When will the concert end?

The concert is scheduled to end at approximately 22:00.

Will there be first aid?

In the event that your injured during the concert approach the nearest staff member, who will be be able contact persons qualified in first-aid to help.

I am an exhibitor and was wondering if it is possible to get an Anisong VIP pass without the cost of the SMASH weekend ticket?

Of course! We have created a new VIP ticket category just for you! You must ensure that you are available for the VIP events held on Saturday afternoon, to attend them. We understand that you may have other schedules, but we are not able to change the VIP session schedules once they are finalised.

Is the concert included as part of my SMASH! ticket?

Yes! But only for a limited number of seats, first come first serve. It is best to secure your guaranteed seating by purchasing an Anisong General Admission ticket, which is available on the day!

My question hasn’t been answered.

We’d be happy to help!

Get in touch via our Contact page and we’ll do our best to assist you.