Discovery Kids a Discovery Networks Latin America/US Hispanic (DLA/USH) network announced today a strategic partnership with Cirque du Soleil Images, the multimedia production division of Cirque du Soleil, on an original English-language live action series to be produced by Apartment 11 in association with TVOKids. Shot in Montreal, the upcoming show will feature prolific producer, director and composer Cris Morena as an Executive Producer and Songwriter for the series. Leila Basen (Heartland) is Head Writer.
Set at a fictional boarding school for kid circus performers, the show tells the story of an extraordinary group of young artists, athletes and acrobats. Together, they must strive for personal excellence while learning to work as a team, surpassing their own limits. Throughout their adventures, the artists will develop meaningful friendships while juggling the ups and downs of growing up in such a unique environment.
Shot in part at the International Headquarters of Cirque du Soleil, the show will treat viewers to the astonishing universe of the circus through artistic direction, costumes, acrobatic coaching and more, as Cirque du Soleil artists, craftsmen and creative minds work with the show’s young artists and creators.
“Discovery Kids is extremely excited to embark on this venture, and we could not have chosen better partners than Cirque du Soleil Images, Apartment 11 and TVOKids,” said Carolina Lightcap, ?Executive Vice President and Chief Content Officer, Discovery Latin America/US Hispanic. “The series delivers dream fulfillment through circus performing arts, in a magical and musical context which is sure to delight our Discovery Kids audience.”
“Cirque du Soleil is looking to develop new forms of entertainment, speak to new audiences and further expand its global reach” says Kristina Heney, Chief Marketing Officer at Cirque du Soleil. “This series is a natural continuation for us in our foray into youth entertainment, after over 30 years of producing world renowned live shows that appeal to the entire family. Our vision is to apply our creative kaleidoscope to build unique worlds that nurture kids creativity.”
“I’m thrilled to be working again with Discovery Kids and TVOKids. The extraordinary nature of the circus and specifically Cirque du Soleil will allow us to have so much fun telling stories. Every viewer is going to love this school!” said Jonathan Finkelstein, Apartment 11’s President and Executive Producer.
“The series also builds on TVOKids’ long-standing track record of developing award-winning, innovative content that engages kids while ensuring parent trust,” says Marney Malabar, TVO’s Director of Kids TV. “This show addresses important themes of building resilience, coping with failure and over-achievement, and instilling confidence. These are critical for a child’s success in school and in life. TVOKids is incredibly proud to partner in this new project to help kids build the skills they need for the future.”
{ SOURCE: Cirque du Soleil }
