Wandance

Kabo is a high schooler who stutters and struggles to get his feelings across. When he notices Wanda, a classmate who dances without worrying about being watched, he starts to think movement might say what words cannot. He tentatively tries freestyle dance, stumbling through awkward rehearsals, small victories, and moments of embarrassment. The show traces his slow progress in learning rhythm and presence, the evolving relationship with Wanda, and how dance reshapes his sense of self amid school pressures and family expectations, all without giving away any big twists or endings.

Wandance premiered in 2025, created by Michiya Kato. The animated drama features Koki Uchiyama as Kaboku "Kabo" Kotani and Hina Youmiya as Hikari Wanda, and it was noted early on for the way it stages dance in animation.

As of its initial run, Wandance had not received major industry awards, though critics and specialty outlets singled it out for its handling of disability and performance. Any awards trajectory will depend on how the series reaches wider audiences and juries in the coming seasons.

Even in its early life, the series has sparked conversation about representation of stuttering and nonverbal expression in anime. Commentators have pointed to the show's quiet scenes and movement sequences, and social conversations have grown around how animation can show embodied feeling, leading to fan interest and commentary online in some communities.

Audience response is modestly positive, reflected in a 7.5/10 average from early votes. Reviewers and viewers tend to appreciate the sincere character work and the contrast between Kabo's silence and Wanda's openness. Main themes include communication without speech, identity during adolescence, the discipline behind artistic practice, and how learning a craft can change relationships and confidence.