With activity ramping up across its first two properties and a new project under discussion, Gran Canaria-based FuturumKids has a busy MIPCOM planned this year. The animation & media company has inked a co-production and co-distribution deal with Toonz Media Group for its new preschool series, Charlie’s Ark (52 x 11′).
FuturumKids and Toonz, a global kids & family player specializing in content creation, production and distribution for over two decades, plan to heavily promote the series to potential broadcast partners in Cannes.
Created by award-winning illustrator Mike Payne, Charlie’s Ark tells the story of Charlie, a five-year-old boy and the ark-shaped toybox in which he keeps his toy animals with their ark-inspired rainbow top-knots, manes and tails. But these are not just toys: they all come to life! And together, Charlie and the toys have many magical adventures.
“We are elated to join hands with FuturumKids to co-produce and co-distribute this promising preschool show called Charlie’s Ark. This partnership affirms our commitment to make kids and families happy by providing high-quality content,” said P. Jayakumar, CEO of Toonz Media Group.
The series, which has commenced production in Ireland and Las Palmas, will emulate the charm, evocative storylines and emotionally engaging illustrations of classic storybooks on the screen. An early unveiling of the concept at MIPTV in April enjoyed an warm reception.
Longer-term plans will include licensing and merchandising, building on writer and illustrator Payne’s success in commercial greeting card design, books and gift concepts that have sold in the hundreds of millions worldwide.
