Kids
BBC launches children’s writing competition in the UK
MUMBAI: UK pubcaster The BBC’s children’s channel CBBC has announced that its show Blue Peter, in association with Arts Council England, has launched a children’s writing competition in the UK.
Seven writers, including the current Children’s Laureate, Jacqueline Wilson, will provide the opening paragraph to a story or play, and entrants can choose one or more to develop into a work of their own. The writers will each provide the opening paragraph of a story. David Wood will provide the opening lines to a play and Lauren Child, the opening images of a picture story. The winning entries will be published in a book later on in the year to be sold in aid of this year’s Blue Peter Appeal.
Blue Peter editor, Richard Marson, said, “We know that Blue Peter viewers love books, from the success of our Book Club, but now we want to see how they cope with the challenge of coming up with their own story or play.
“The top class writers we are working with represent a range of styles and we hope there will be something there to stimulate imaginations across the age range of our viewers.”
In addition to having their work published and illustrated, the winners will each receive a laptop computer and will be invited to participate in a writing workshop. 500 runners-up will receive a signed copy of the new Blue Peter Annual and a competition winner’s badge.
Arts Council England’s Chief Executive, Peter Hewitt, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to discover new young talent. Blue Peter is such a long-standing favourite with children and the Arts Council are thrilled to be working with them to inspire kids and give them the chance to work with some of the country’s best writers.”
The Blue Peter Storytellers competition will feature on the show throughout this month and the beginning of October.
Kids
Sony YAY! launches ‘House of Masti’ to celebrate 20 years of Shin chan
Comedian Kiku Sharda joins the fun with a special rap track as the mischievous icon returns to Indian TV.
MUMBAI: Shin chan is back and this time, he’s bringing the whole house of masti with him! Sony YAY!, India’s leading kids’ entertainment channel, has unveiled ‘House of Masti’, a specially curated programming block to mark 20 years of the iconic animated series Shin chan on Indian television. The campaign transforms the beloved character’s mischievous world into a fresh, high-energy viewing experience. It features new episodes, fan-favourite moments, and themed programming stunts, all designed to stand out from regular broadcasts.
Adding extra sparkle to the celebration, popular comedian Kiku Sharda has joined the campaign. He anchors the integration with a lively rap track titled ‘Shin chan ka YAY! Dhamaal’, infusing contemporary music and humour into the beloved series.
Sony YAY! business head of kids and animation Ambesh Tiwari said, “Over the past 20 years, Shin chan has built a strong and enduring connection with audiences in India. With ‘House of Masti’, we are celebrating this milestone through a differentiated, campaign-led experience. Kiku Sharda and the rap track add a fun, high-energy layer that will resonate with today’s kids and families.”
Starting 27 April, viewers can enjoy the World Television Premiere of Shin chan along with new episodes and an exciting lineup of blockbuster movies on Sony YAY!.
By blending nostalgia with fresh, engaging content, Sony YAY! is ensuring that the cheeky, laughter-filled adventures of Shin chan continue to entertain and connect with new generations across the country.
In a world full of serious cartoons, Shin chan remains delightfully naughty and with ‘House of Masti’, Sony YAY! is making sure his brand of chaos stays as fresh and fun as ever. Get ready for some serious masti!
