Kids
Cartoon Network’s talent search heads to the Philippines
MUMBAI: Cartoon Network has extended its global animation talent search further into Southeast Asia, bring the International Shorts Program to the Philippines. The country’s No. 1 kids’ channel is casting a wide net to identify writers, artists and studios that can develop its next original hit series.
Today, Manila-based production studio Top Draw Animation opened its doors for the very first time to local animation and TV industry representatives who experienced an exclusive studio tour and a sneak-peek of Monster Beach. This feature-length animated TV movie was commissioned by the team at Cartoon Network’s Asia Pacific headquarters in Hong Kong, created by Melbourne-based Bogan Entertainment Solutions and animation work was conducted by Top Draw Animation in the Philippines.
Silas Hickey, Cartoon Network’s Creative Director for Animation Development in Asia Pacific, said: “Our International Shorts Program signals serious intent that we are continuing to support the animation industry in Asia Pacific. We truly recognize the value of the talent in this region and a show like Monster Beach allows it to be consumed by a global audience. It’s really funny stuff and, with the exception of some voice talent based in North America, it’s all created in Australia, Hong Kong, and right here in the Philippines.”
After the tour, Top Draw Animation staff demonstrated their enthusiasm for the projects they are working on by dressing up as their favorite anime characters from Exchange Student Zero, another project that features the Asia-Pacific collaboration. Members of the animation industry, university students and the department of education were also on hand to show their support.
Original content makes up a large percentage of Cartoon Network’s line-up, and series like Adventure Time, The Amazing World of Gumball and Uncle Grandpa are a major factor that have made it the country’s No. 1 kids’ TV channel for the past five years.1
In Asia Pacific, Monster Beach premieres across Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand on Halloween (October 31). Exchange Student Zero, an animated series, will premiere on Cartoon Network in mid-2015.
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!
