Belfast-based production company Sixteen South has secured worldwide distribution for its new children's show, 'Driftwood Bay'.
Receiving its official launch on Tuesday 5th November, 'Driftwood Bay' is to be distributed globally by The Jim Henson Company, the creators of the Muppets.
Developed from an original idea by children's artist Joanne Carmichael, 'Driftwood Bay' tells the story of young Lucy, the titular 'Driftwood Bay' an island that exists in her imagination. Each day sees another piece of driftwood treasure wash up on the shore, forming the centre of that episode's adventure.
Produced in autumn of 2012, the show is already set to air in the US, UK, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Israel and Ireland, with further interest expressed from countries as far-flung as Japan and Korea.
Speaking about the response, Colin Williams of Sixteen South said: ’We are truly overwhelmed with the demand for and interest in 'Driftwood Bay'. We have a brilliant team of people here at Sixteen South and we're thrilled to be producing this beautiful show right here in Belfast.’
Founded in 2008, Sixteen South achieved previous acclaimed with shows such as the double Emmy-nominated 'Pajanimals'. The company currently employs around 75 people on Driftwood Bay', with a budget of £2.5m.
The new distribution deal with The Jim Henson Company is expected to see the show air in over 100 countries worldwide, beginning in Spring 2014.