DreamWorks Animation is planning to launch a facility in Shanghai to produce animated content for the Chinese market, reports Variety.
The company is looking for applicants to fill various posts at the venture, including that of president. The studio has tapped L.A.-based recruiter RSR Partners to handle hiring duties.
“As it is an important market for us and one in which the DreamWorks Animation brand and products have tremendous value, we continue to explore opportunities in China,” a DreamWorks Animation spokesperson told the trade. “Any further speculation is premature.”
Last month, DreamWorks signed a deal with Youku.com, the Chinese distributor of online videos to handle its Kung Fu Panda movies. The franchise has done remarkable well in China: The first outing brought in close to $15 million, while the sequel set more box office records and has generated over $92 million in the country. The Chinese box office rose 64% in 2010, totaling $1.5 billion in revenues.
