Dublin, Ireland – September 5, 2017 – 9 Story Distribution International, the international distribution arm of 9 Story Media Group, and Magic Mall Entertainment (China) are pleased to announce they have joined forces on the animated children’s series LUO BAO BEI (52 x 11’). Created and Produced by Magic Mall with Cloth Cat Animation in Wales commissioned for production, 9 Story Distribution International has acquired global distribution and merchandising rights, excluding China.
LUO BAO BEI (pronounced “Law-o Bao Bay”) is currently in production and expected to premiere in China in Q4, 2017. Targeting a 4-7 year old audience, the series has award-winning writer Dave Ingham (Shaun the Sheep, The Octonauts) on board as the head writer. 9 Story Distribution International will launch the series at MIPJR next month with several completed episodes.
The series follows LUO BAO BEI, a bright and spirited 7-year-old girl with a vivid imagination, on a quest to understand the world around her. With her friends, family, and some endearing animal companions by her side, she navigates the excitement of childhood with enthusiasm and curiosity, finding adventures along the way. Kids everywhere will relate to Luo Bao Bei’s journey to learn life lessons, one story at a time.
“We are so thrilled to be representing this one-of-a-kind property,” said Alix Wiseman, VP Acquisitions & Business Development for 9 Story Distribution International. “We immediately fell in love with Luo Bao Bei’s irrepressible determination and with the funny and touching storylines about growing up and being part of a family. We are also very excited to become a part of this unique international collaboration between Magic Mall and 9 Story. We feel the series has tremendous potential around the world and can’t wait to share initial episodes at MIPCOM.”
“We’re excited to form this partnership with 9 Story.” said Grace Tian, General Manager for Magic Mall Entertainment and Creator of LUO BAO BEI. “After our successes in working with Dave and Cloth Cat, I’m confident that 9 Story will make Luo Bao Bei a household name worldwide. I cannot wait to see a truly meaningful cultural exchange with this series on every level.”
“Luo Bao Bei’s experience is drawn from contemporary China, but her curiosity and love for life is universal.” said Alex Chien, Executive Producer for LUO BAO BEI. “We love how she figures things out around her with the help from her family and friends. She learns to be both smarter and kinder as each story unfolds.”
“We’re so pleased with the opportunity to work on this fun series- it’s such a departure from what the market is accustomed to when it comes to animation for this age group.” said Jon Rennie, MD for Cloth Cat Animation. “The story-telling is truly unique and we all love Luo Bao Bei’s sense of humour.”
About 9 Story Distribution International Limited
9 Story Distribution International is the international distribution arm of 9 Story Media Group, a leading content creator, producer and distributor of kids & family focused intellectual property. Recognized around the world for best-in-class brands such as Daniel Tiger’s Neighbourhood, Wild Kratts, Barney and Garfield and Friends, 9 Story Distribution International represents over 2,500 half hours of animated and live action programming, seen on some of the most respected international channels and platforms. With the company’s acquisition of award winning animation studio Brown Bag Films, 9 Story Media Group employs over 600 staff across Toronto, Dublin, Manchester and Los Angeles. 9 Story Media Group is owned by senior management, ZMC (Zelnick Media Capital) and media entrepreneur Neil Court. www.9story.com
About Magic Mall Entertainment, China
Magic Mall was formed in 2008, under DaYe TransMedia Group (est. 1997) together with sister companies DYTM TV (tv & film- production, distribution) and Ad Society (tv format licensing, advertising & sponsorship, Neeq:839242). Magic Mall specializes in creating kids & family entertainment content – original IP includes Luo Bao Bei and Kick’n’Rush (in collaboration with the Chinese Football Association). Current projects in development includeNestars with the Beijing Birds Nest Stadium. Magic Mall is also the master licensee in China for the Oscar-nominated Song of the Sea from Cartoon Saloon. www.magicmall.com.cn
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For further information:
Jennifer Ansley, Vice President, Marketing & Communications, 9 Story Media Group
+1 416 530-9900 ext 230, jennifer.ansley@9story.com