Tricon launches kids and family division

Canada’s Tricon Films & Television has launched a new kids and family division following the acquisition of Kavaleer Productions’ new animated series Wildernuts.

Tricon Kids & Family will focus on selling both acquired content and Tricon-produced projects. “The launch of Tricon Kids & Family is a natural next step as we expand our children’s content in all genres, both in production and distribution,” said Tricon’s Jon Rutherford, senior VP, distribution and business development.

Its first acquisition, the 26x7mins Wildernuts comes from Ireland’s Kavaleer and was produced in association with the Irish Film Board, broadcaster RTÉ Junior and the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland’s Sound & Vision fund.

The ecology-themed preschool show follows the crew of a magical flying ship that travels to different islands to discover local creatures and study nature.

“Wildernuts’ charming way of exploring the wonders of the world will engage children everywhere and is a perfect fit for our new division,” said Rutherford.

Tricon Kids & Family will debut the series at MIPJr and MIPCOM alongside JiggiJump, a 25x5mins musical adventure series.

Prior to formalising its kids and family activities, Beyond produced children’s series such as The Next Star for YTV and is developing an animated show with Mercury Filmworks called Go Away Unicorn!.