Popular girl band project BanG Dream! has officially begun accepting applications for the voice of Rinko Shirokane, a member of the franchise’s J-rock band Roselia.
Though fans are familiar with her original voice actress, Akesaka Satomi, she announced in June 2018 that she would discontinue her singing career due an unexpected case of hearing loss. Akesaka will continue voice acting in general, but any and all singing roles are now off the table due to the difficulties her hearing loss would bring.
BanG Dream! is a multimedia project that revolves around singing girls in its anime, games, and live concerts, so while the decision is regrettable, it’s certainly not unexpected. In fact, Roselia just performed live at the FNS Summer Song Festival in July 2018.
For now, BanG Dream! is searching for a replacement for Akesaka with a few ideal traits in mind: between 13 to 20 years old with either piano or keyboard experience. Who will be the next Rinko?
Adapted with permission from SPICE