9 Story Secures Canadian Commissions for Wibbly Pig

Children's Animated Series Commissioned by TVO and Knowledge Network Canada
Toronto, CA - September 15, 2008

Canadian based production and distribution company, 9 Story Entertainment has secured broadcast agreements with Canada's TVO and Knowledge Network for the new animated series based on acclaimed author and artist Mick Inkpen's Wibbly Pig. The announcement was made by Vince Commisso, CEO of 9 Story Entertainment.

"We are a big fan of Mick Inkpen's books, most notably the Wibbly book series," said 9 Story's Commisso. "These books are a sensation with young readers around the globe and we are thrilled to be teaming up with our broadcast partners to adapt these highly entertaining stories for the screen. Wibbly is simply an amazing character who literally speaks to children. His unique and unmistakable charm offers security, warmth and fun-he makes every day life simple."

Targeting 2-5 year olds, the series is currently in production and has been commissioned for the BBC's Cbeebies. A joint production with the UK's Wish Films, Wibbly Pig is set for a spring 2009 delivery.

"Wibbly celebrates the power of imagination and the importance of creative play in the life of a young child" said TVO's Pat Ellingson, Creative Head, Children's and Daytime Programming. "Wibbly viewers will not be asked to simply watch, listen and repeat, but are encouraged to actively use their imagination. We are thrilled to be working with 9 Story and Wish Films on this project, two companies dedicated to providing quality programming for young audiences."

Both 9 Story and BBC Worldwide are distributing, with 9 Story handling all distribution rights for North America and Latin America while BBC Worldwide maintains all other international distribution rights.

Wish and 9 Story are designing an interactive program to accompany the animated series. The online program will seek to sustain the Wibbly "bond" through such activities as creating a unique playground, building their own interactive stories and much more.

Multi-award winning book artist Mick Inkpen stories have sold millions internationally with Wibbly Pig being one of his most popular series with over 2.2 million copies sold worldwide. Mr. Inkpen is one of the UK's renowned authors, having created such classic characters as "Kipper," "Threadbear" and "Penguin Small." The Wibbly Pig books beautifully and artistically tell warm humorous stories featuring lovable Wibbly, a funny, inquisitive and engaging character who turns the simplest of daily tasks and activities into a comedy routine.

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