Series & First Appearance
Arisa Ichigaya is a character from the multimedia franchise BanG Dream! which encompasses anime, video games, and music. She first appeared in the mobile game BanG Dream! Girls Band Party! released in March 2017, developed by Craft Egg and animated by the studio DMM Pictures, with character designs by the author and illustrator, Morikura En. Arisa is introduced as a member of the in-universe band Poppin’Party.
Profile at a Glance
Arisa Ichigaya is a 17-year-old third-year student at Hanasakigawa Girls’ High School, prominently positioned as the keyboardist in Poppin’Party. Her musical prowess and strong passion for music define her role within the band, where she provides both melodic support and expressive performances. Arisa’s commitment to the group is evident in her dedication, often pushing herself to improve her skills.
Personality & Motivations
Arisa is characterized by her diligent and serious demeanor, often prioritizing her studies and responsibilities over social pursuits. A notable quirk is her initial stoicism, which sometimes comes off as cold, but she gradually reveals a more caring and gentle side, especially towards her friends. Motivated by a desire to create beautiful music and to support her friends, she harbors a sincere ambition to perform on stage and inspire others. One of her catchphrases reflects her focused nature: "Leave it to me, I’ll handle it!"
Abilities / Powers
Arisa’s principal skill lies in her exceptional keyboard-playing ability. Through extensive practice and a determination to excel, she develops impressive technical skills that enhance Poppin’Party’s performances. While she lacks combative powers typical of some anime series, her strength in music is a metaphorical weapon against adversity, inspiring resilience and teamwork. Her character also shows a noteworthy evolution as she learns to balance her responsibilities and her love for performance.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Arisa’s character development is pivotal throughout the series, especially noted in BanG Dream! Season 1 and the Thanksgiving episode, "We Can’t Do It Alone!" (Episode 7), where she confronts her struggles with self-doubt and her commitment to the band. Another significant moment is in the Band Story arcs like "Poppin’Party’s Story," illustrating her journey of personal growth and her evolving bond with fellow band members. Her growth is evident as she transitions from a reserved individual to a more expressive and confident performer.
Notable Relationships
Arisa shares deep connections with her bandmates in Poppin’Party, particularly with Anon and Kasumi. Her relationship with Anon serves as a crucial source of motivation; they often challenge each other to become better musicians. With Kasumi, Arisa’s dynamic fluctuates between rivalry and friendship, highlighting how they push each other creatively. Additionally, her family plays a crucial role in shaping her character, specifically her parents who run the family pawnshop "Ryuuseidou," grounding her in a strong sense of responsibility.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Arisa’s memorable moments occurs during the live performance of "Star Beat!" in Episode 12 of the anime, where she overcomes her stage fright and plays beautifully, solidifying her place within the band and showcasing her growth. Another quote that resonates with fans is when she states, “You don’t need to struggle alone; we’re a band.” This emphasizes the importance of friendship and collaboration, making it a touching moment within the narrative.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Arisa Ichigaya is voiced by Miku Itou in the Japanese version, while the English version features voice actress and singer, Laura Stahl. In popularity polls, Arisa has consistently ranked favorably among fans, often appearing in the top ten for her relatable character development and musical talent. The influences from Japanese culture are subtly imbued with her admiration for traditional sweets such as anmitsu, reflecting her personality as both refined and relatable. Furthermore, her zodiac sign, Scorpio, is often used by fans to illustrate her complexity and depth.
Arisa stands out in the BanG Dream! universe not only as a skilled musician but as a character resonating with themes of friendship, perseverance, and self-discovery. This multi-layered portrayal makes her a favorite for many fans, contributing significantly to the series’ charm.
