WDR mediagroup Secures WildWoods Distribution Rights

Cologne-based WDR mediagroup (WDRmg) has secured the international programme distribution rights for WildWoods, a new live action children's series by Belfast-based studio Sixteen South.

WildWoods is an adventure puppet comedy series based around city-boy Cooper, a Sasquatch, and nature-loving Poppy, a Sugar-glider. In each of the 26x11' stories, a simple task usually goes very wrong as Cooper's sheltered indoor existence makes him ill-prepared for outdoor living. Shot in the woods all across Ireland, the real outdoor locations provide a backdrop that reinforces the series' messages of appreciating the wonder of nature and respecting the environment.

Colin Williams, Creative Director at Sixteen South, said: "'WildWoods' is a very special show that encourages children to rediscover and to reconnect into the great outdoors. We've always loved puppetry and are thrilled to be going into production on this very special puppet show, shot completely outdoors – and we're delighted too to be working with such great partners as WDR mediagroup."

Stefanie Fischer, Head of Content at WDRmg, added: "This visually unique series with the exciting approach of having puppets act in a real environment will work throughout the world."

Andrea Zuska, Chief Content Officer, commented: "'Wildwoods' fits perfectly in our international distribution portfolio of innovative kids' programmes. This high-quality series allows us to sharpen our profile as a relevant provider and marketer of content on the international stage."

The show is targeted at children aged 4 to 7 and will be filmed in summer 2017. It has been acquired by RTÉ for Ireland and by ABC KIDS for Australia.

Image: Copyright Sixteen South.

(JP/LM)