Series & First Appearance
Aya Maruyama is a character from the multimedia project "Bang Dream!" created by Bushiroad. She first appears in the anime adaptation "BanG Dream!," which premiered in January 2017. The character design is credited to the studio, IKinari An (a subsidiary of Bushiroad), which portrays the vibrant world of aspiring idols and musicians.
Profile at a Glance
Aya Maruyama is a second-year student at Hanasakigawa Girls’ High School and serves as the main vocalist for the fictional idol group Pastel*Palettes. She is approximately 16 years old and is characterized by her deep passion for idols and music. Aya’s energetic presence resonates with fans, making her a standout figure among her peers.
Personality & Motivations
Aya exhibits a cheerful and enthusiastic personality, imbued with a strong sense of ambition and dedication to her craft. She adores everything about idols and dreams of being a top singer herself. Aya’s driving motivation is to share joy and happiness through her performances, which she believes can positively impact her audience. A notable quirk is her catchphrase, “Omelette rice will save the day!” reflecting her love for food, particularly omelette rice and hamburgers, which also serves as a lighthearted personality trait.
Abilities / Powers
As the lead singer of Pastel*Palettes, Aya’s primary skill lies in her vocal talent, which is showcased during performances. Her voice is not only melodious but also carries a sense of warmth and positivity that resonates with listeners. Aya has an exceptional stage presence, captivating audiences with her dynamic energy and enthusiasm. While she excels in singing, her performance sometimes shows a lack of experience in more complex choreographies, indicating room for growth. There is a recurring theme in her character arc where she learns to overcome her limitations through practice and determination.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Aya’s journey prominently unfolds in various arcs throughout the series, focusing on her growth as an idol and a person. One pivotal moment occurs when she struggles with stage fright before a major performance. Through the support of her bandmates and her determination, she learns to channel her fears into energy, ultimately captivating her audience and solidifying her resolve to pursue her dreams. Additionally, her interactions with other characters in the franchise enrich her development, especially moments where she mentors new idols or collaborates with other groups, allowing her to refine her skills and confidence.
Notable Relationships
Aya shares strong bonds with her fellow band members in Pastel*Palettes, including Kanemura Nono, Shinjou Kira, and Hikawa Sayo. These relationships are crucial to her character development, as they provide emotional support and encourage her growth. Aya also has friendly rivalries with members from other idol groups, instilling motivation for competition and mutual respect. Her relationship with her family, particularly discussions about her idol aspirations, adds depth to her background and motivations.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Aya’s most memorable moments occurs during the "Pastel*Palettes’ First Live" (Episode 4), where she overcomes her stage fright, illustrating her growth and determination. As she passionately declares, “Let’s make everyone smile with our songs!” it encapsulates her essence as an idol who aims to spread joy. This moment resonates deeply with fans, showcasing her journey and relatable struggles.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Aya Maruyama is voiced by Moeka Kuga in the Japanese version, who brings a lively energy that complements her character’s essence. In English, Aya is voiced by Emily Neves, who captures the charm and enthusiasm that define her. Aya has consistently ranked well in popularity polls, often appearing in the top tiers among fans of "BanG Dream!" due to her engaging personality and relatable aspirations. Additionally, her love for omelette rice has become a notable aspect of her character, leading to fan art and memes within the community.
Aya’s character showcases the high-energy, emotionally driven nature of the "BanG Dream!" series, making her a beloved character not just for her talents but for her relatable journey as an aspiring idol. Fans appreciate her blend of hard work, warmth, and the lightheartedness she brings to the often competitive idol world.
