Banijay Kids & Family Unveils Collaboration Secrets At Sharjah Animation Event

At the 2nd edition of the Sharjah Animation Conference (SAC), a gathering that brings together the crème de la crème of the animation world, attendees were treated to an engaging panel discussion. The event, organized by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), featured celebrated producer Benoit Di Sabatino alongside Giorgio Welter, Tom Beattie, and Giorgio Scorza. The discussion, led by animation producer entrepreneur Mounia Aram, delved into the collaborative efforts behind some of the world's most cherished animated series including 'Topo Gigio,' 'Mr. Bean,' 'Hello Kitty,' and 'Totally Spies.'

Benoit Di Sabatino, CEO of Banijay Kids and Family, shared insights into the enduring development of these beloved brands. He emphasized the importance of evolving character designs to reflect contemporary fashion trends among young women, highlighting a commitment to staying relevant with audiences. This approach underscores the dynamic nature of character development in animation, ensuring long-term engagement with viewers.

The panelists collectively underscored the significance of collaboration in animation production. Giorgio Welter, CEO of Monello Productions, discussed their upcoming series 'Super Happy Magic Forest,' set to premiere on BBC in England, RAI in Italy, and Canal Plus in France. He detailed the international cooperation involved in bringing the series to life, with pre-production and animation in Italy, writing in England, and post-production in France. This exemplifies the global nature of animation projects and the intricate coordination required among international teams.

Tom Beattie, BAFTA-nominated Managing Director of Tiger Aspect Kids & Family, elaborated on the coordination efforts necessary for successful animation production. He stressed the importance of establishing a solid foundation, maintaining clear hierarchies, and ensuring open communication channels among co-producers. Beattie's role in overseeing development and production at Tiger Aspect Kids & Family, as well as managing the Mr Bean brand and producing Mr Bean: The Animated Series, showcases his extensive experience in navigating the complexities of animation production.

The Sharjah Animation Conference serves as a pivotal platform for professionals and enthusiasts within the animation industry. It offers an array of panel discussions, workshops, masterclasses, and networking opportunities designed to foster learning and collaboration. By bringing together industry experts to share their knowledge and experiences, SAC plays a crucial role in advancing the field of animation.

This annual event not only highlights current trends and techniques within animation but also encourages innovation and creativity among participants. As such, SAC continues to contribute significantly to the growth and development of the global animation landscape.

With inputs from WAM