Channel 5 To Refresh Milkshake! Preschool Block

Viacom-owned Channel 5 UK is revamping its popular Milkshake! preschool programming block for the first time in more than a decade.

Kicking off later this month, the Viacom-owned block's remodeling will include a new logo, a special week-long programming event featuring new acquisitions like Poppy Cat (pictured) and the launch of the first-ever Milkshake! YouTube channel.

The brand refresh, which is scheduled to launch on Monday 24th July 2017 at 6:00 a.m., just in time for the summer school holidays, will include a new on-air logo and opening title sequence, as well as an “All New Week” event schedule. The makeover will also introduce the first-ever Milkshake! YouTube channel.

Announced today by Channel 5′s new head of children’s Sarah Muller at the Children’s Media Conference in Sheffield, the refresh is aimed to keep up with today’s media-savvy kids and help future-proof Milkshake! for upcoming generations of children.

For its “All New Week” schedule, the block will feature new eps of hit shows including Peppa Pig and Thomas and Friends, along with brand-new acquisitions Poppy Cat and Simon from London-based Coolabi and Paris-based GO-N Productions, respectively. Originally commissioned by Nick Jr. UK, Poppy Cat features the voice of Joanna Page (Gavin & Stacy), and follows the playful cat with the big personality, along with her colourful companions, on inspiring adventures to amazing places.

The Milkshake! YouTube channel, meanwhile, will also launch with audience favorites, as well as the block’s presenter-lead short form features.

Further touches include a bigger studio to allow more room for in-studio crafting and dance activities. The space was designed by Yeen Trinh and Sylwia Bernatowicz and project managed by Mel Czaja—the same creative group behind the new Milkshake! logo and opening title sequence.

During the on-air celebration, the studio will also welcome new Milkshake! presenters and costume characters.

Since its debut in 1997, this year, to date, has been Milkshake!’s best ever in terms of ratings for kids ages four to 15, as well as the 16-to-34 audience. Milkshake! programming has also generated more than 10 million monthly views on Channel 5′s digital platform My5, and the network is committed to airing 600 hours of UK-originated kids’ programs per year.

The brand refresh follows BBC Children’s new multi-million dollar commitment to homegrown children’s content that will place a significant emphasis on digital content.

See also: Channel 5 Announces "Milkshake! Live: The Magic Story Book" Tour!

Original source: Kidscreen.

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StoryToys Releases "Poppy Cat and the Bubble Volcano" App; Nick Jr. UK To Premiere "Poppy Cat" Season Two On Monday 8th September 2014

StoryToys, a leading publisher of interactive books and games for children, has announced in the following press release, from Coolabi.com, the release of "Poppy Cat and the Bubble Volcano", a brand-new 3D pop-up activity app based on the award-winning "Poppy Cat" series! The app, produced by StoryToys in collaboration with Coolabi, a leading international media group, and The Kindly Ones Productions, is available to purchase and download on the App Store for iPhone, iPad and iPod, priced at $2.99 / €2.99 / £1.99!

Additionally, Coolabi has also announced in the same press release, below, the exciting news that Nickelodeon UK and Eire's preschool channel, Nick Jr. UK and Ireland, will start to premiere and show brand-new episodes from the all-new second series of the popular "Poppy Cat" animated preschool television series from Monday 8th September 2014!

Original StoryToys Press Release:

StoryToys partners with Coolabi to release Poppy Cat and the Bubble Volcano, a 3D pop-up activity app based on the award-winning Poppy Cat series

Dublin, Ireland – August 28th, 2014 – StoryToys a leading publisher of interactive books and games for children today announced the release of Poppy Cat and the Bubble Volcano, an enchanting 3D pop-up activity app based on the best-selling Poppy Cat books and T.V. series. It is produced in collaboration with Coolabi, a leading international media group, and The Kindly Ones Productions. The app is available from August 28th on the App Store for iPhone, iPad and iPod, priced at $2.99 / €2.99 / £1.99.

Poppy Cat originated as an award-winning book series created by Lara Jones which has sold more than 2.5 million copies worldwide. The Poppy Cat TV show has been distributed in over 140 territories and has over 100,000 likes on Facebook. The Poppy Cat and the Bubble Volcano app features an original story that sees Poppy and her friends dive deep into the ocean to explore a magical underwater world. Its release coincides with the UK launch of series two of Poppy Cat on September 8th on Nick Jr.

"We're thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Coolabi on the much-loved Poppy Cat brand," said Barry O'Neill, CEO of StoryToys. "The Poppy Cat stories celebrate imaginative play and problem-solving, and, as such, are an excellent fit for StoryToys. Our apps give kids a way to directly interact with their favourite characters in a richly immersive experience, stimulating the imagination while simultaneously testing their problem solving skills with cleverly interwoven games and puzzles."

Val Fry, Director of sales adds, "Poppy Cat is all about making everyday adventures extraordinary and what better way to enhance a child's learning experience than with a 3D pop-up activity app. This will bring hours of fun to pre-schoolers who are fans of the hit series and will appeal to those new to the property," said Valerie Fry, Director of Sales, Coolabi. "StoryToys is a well respected and experienced partner and we have enjoyed collaborating with them on this launch."

Poppy Cat and the Bubble Volcano includes the following features:

* Narrated in US and UK English by the original voices of Poppy Cat

* 8 charming pop-up games and activities designed for little fingers

* Magical 3D pop-up experience

* Bright, colourful illustrations based on the TV animations

* Read to Me, Read it Myself, and Autoplay modes

* 16 beautifully-presented pages of text

* Charming musical sound effects and soundtracks from the TV series

* Fully localized for US and UK English, French, and Spanish

Poppy Cat and the Bubble Volcano is available from August 28th, 2014 for $2.99 / €2.99 / £1.99 on the App Store for iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch.

[...]

Find out more:

iTunes: http://bit.ly/PC_IT

Website: http://bit.ly/PP_la

Youtube: http://bit.ly/PC_Yt

About Coolabi

Coolabi is a leading, independent, international media group and rights owner specialising in the creation, development and brand management of children's and family intellectual property rights.

The group, made up of Coolabi and Working Partners, has a particular expertise in the media of publishing, television and digital. Brands owned and represented by Coolabi include Poppy Cat, Purple Ronnie, Beast Quest and the Smallfilms' trio of properties Bagpuss, Clangers and Ivor the Engine.

About StoryToys

Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, StoryToys creates and publishes highly innovative and entertaining software for children including interactive books and games. StoryToys is a registered trademark and trading name of StoryToys Entertainment Ltd. Apple, iPad, iPhone and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc.,registered in the U.S. and other countries. Google Play and Android are trademarks of Google Inc.

About The Kindly Ones Productions:

The Kindly Ones Productions is a developer of children's apps and games. Poppy Cat and the Bubble Volcano is the company's first release.

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Coolabi And Kennedy Enterprises Partner For New Stand-Alone "Poppy Cat" Magazine; Nick Jr. UK To Debut Series Two During Spring 2014

Coolabi has announced the exciting Nickelodeon Preschool news in the following press release, from the UK-based production company's official website, coolabi.com, a new licensing deal with magazine publisher Kennedy Enterprises for a brand new stand-alone "Poppy Cat" magazine to build on the brand's momentum and growth in the UK!

Each issue of the all-new "Poppy Cat" magazine, set to launch in Spring 2014 to coincide with Nickelodeon UK and Eire's preschool channel, Nick Jr. Channel UK and Ireland, premiering the brand new second series of the animated "Poppy Cat" television series, will focus on the adventurous pussycat and her colourful friends, and will feature branded stickers, posters, mini activity booklets, and interactive reward stickers to make learning more fun, plus a branded "Poppy Cat" cover mount (promotional toys and gifts).

Distribution Managers will actively promote the launch of the magazine to all of the major supermarkets, regional groups and independent retailers. The marketing campaign for Poppy Cat will focus on securing as many retailer listings and promotions as possible to maximise sales.

"Poppy Cat", starring the voice of Joanna Page ("Gavin & Stacey") and airing everyday on Nick Jr. UK and Nick Jr. 2, is based on the award-winning books created by Lara Jones, which have sold more than 2.5 million copies. The second series of the top-rating programme - launching in 2014 - is co-produced by Coolabi's television production arm, Coolabi Productions, and the Emmy shortlisted and BAFTA award-winning, King Rollo Films.

Nick Jr. UK & Ireland, Nick Jr. Australia & New Zealand and PBS Kids Sprout in the USA jointly commissioned a second season of the popular animated preschool series "Poppy Cat" from UK-based production company Coolabi in September 2013.

Original Nickelodeon Press Release:

POPPY CAT TAKES ON A NEW ADVENTURE WITH THE LAUNCH OF STAND-ALONE MAGAZINE

Coolabi is excited to announce a new licensing deal for its hit pre-school series, Poppy Cat. Magazine publisher, Kennedy Enterprises, is launching a new stand-alone Poppy Cat magazine to build on the brand's momentum and growth in the UK.

The Poppy Cat magazine will focus on the adventurous pussycat and her colourful friends, and features branded stickers, posters and mini activity booklets, plus a branded Poppy Cat cover mount.

The magazine is set to launch in Spring 2014 to coincide with the exciting new Poppy Cat TV series on Nick Jr. Distribution Managers will actively promote the launch of the magazine to all of the major supermarkets, regional groups and independent retailers. The marketing campaign for Poppy Cat will focus on securing as many retailer listings and promotions as possible to maximise sales.

Paul Kennedy of Kennedy Enterprises said, "We are delighted to add Poppy Cat to our portfolio of popular children's magazines! Poppy Cat fans will love our colourful new magazine, which will be packed full of stories, puzzles and colouring. Each issue will feature a free Poppy Cat gift, plus a pull-out activity workbook with interactive reward stickers to make learning more fun. We will be including content designed for children to enjoy alone, and activities to be enjoyed with their parents.

Valerie Fry, Director of Sales, Coolabi comments, "We are very pleased to be working with such a great new licensee, Kennedy Enterprises, on Poppy Cat. It is a bright, colourful and adventurous property, which will lend itself extremely well to a new magazine for toddlers aged 2 to 5 years."

Poppy Cat, starring the voice of Joanna Page (Gavin & Stacey) and airing everyday on Nick Jr and Nick Jr 2, is based on the award-winning books created by Lara Jones, which have sold more than 2.5 million copies. The second series of the top-rating programme - launching in 2014 - is co-produced by Coolabi's television production arm, Coolabi Productions, and the Emmy shortlisted and BAFTA award-winning, King Rollo Films.

For more information on Poppy Cat, please go to www.poppycat.com, or become a fan of Poppy Cat on Facebook (www.facebook.com/officialpoppycat) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/PoppyCat_).

-ENDS-

For further press information, please contact Cassandra Sananes on [...] or email [...].

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Coolabi And Nick Jr. UK Team Up With Birmingham's National Sea Life Centre For Special "Poppy Cat" Promotion

The licensing industry news website Licensing.biz is reporting the exciting Nickelodeon Preschool news in the following article that the production company Coolabi has teamed up with Sea Life Centres for a special new promotion that will feature Nick Jr. UK star Poppy Cat visiting and appearing at Birmingham's National Sea Life Centre between Saturday 14th to Sunday 29th September 2013!

As part of Sea Life's "Poppy Cat" promotion, parents and children will be able to enjoy reading sessions based on 'All Aboard' adventures, while they can also dance along to a 'Copy Poppy' dance routine, which encourages families to mimic the costume characters' movements including 'the swim' move in time with the "Poppy Cat" theme tune. According to the "Poppy Cat at SEA LIFE" event webpage on the official Sea Life website, visitsealife.com, Poppy Cat will also be making special meet and greet sessions during her stay at Birmingham's National Sea Life Centre.

In addition, Nick Jr. UK and Ireland will be celebrating Poppy Cat visiting the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham by airing underwater-themed episodes of "Poppy Cat" every day during the event. There will also be underwater content at www.nickjr.co.uk, alongside "Poppy Cat" video clips, games and activities.

The Sea Life promotion will also see the launch of a new parent and toddler midweek ticket, allowing an adult and child under five to pay £12 to gain entry to the attraction:

Coolabi's Poppy Cat teams up with Sea Life

Pre-school character to appear at Birmingham's National Sea Life Centre from September 14th to 29th.

Pre-school character Poppy Cat will be appearing at the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham from September 14th to 29th.

Parents and children will be able to enjoy reading sessions based on 'All Aboard' adventures, while they can also dance along to a 'Copy Poppy' routine, which encourages families to mimic the costume characters' movements including 'the swim' move in time with the theme tune.

In addition to this, Nick Jr will air underwater-themed Poppy Cat episodes every day during the event. There will also be underwater content at www.nickjr.co.uk, alongside Poppy Cat clips, games and activities.

The Sea Life promotion will also see the launch of a new parent and toddler midweek ticket, meaning an adult and child under five pays £12 to gain entry.

"We can't wait to welcome Poppy Cat to the National Sea Life Centre," said Jamie Turner, marketing manager at Sea Life. "There'll be lots of undersea adventures and with the new parent and toddler midweek ticket we really think that parents will be able to bring their little ones for even better value for money."

Michael Dee, director of content at Coolabi, added: "Poppy Cat enjoys underwater adventures in the television series, so this partnership with Sea Life provides a great opportunity to bring Poppy Cat's adventures to life off-air."


TAGS coolabi, poppy cat, sea life

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Nick Jr. UK & Ireland, Nick Jr. Australia & New Zealand And PBS Kids Sprout Commission Second Series Of Animated Preschool Series "Poppy Cat" From Coolabi

The licensing industry news website Licensing.biz and the entertainment news website C21Media is reporting the exciting Nickelodeon Preschool news in the following articles that Nick Jr. UK & Ireland, Nick Jr. Australia & New Zealand and PBS Kids Sprout in the USA have jointly commissioned a second season of the popular animated preschool series "Poppy Cat" from UK-based production company Coolabi!

Production on the animation for "Poppy Cat" season 2, which will feature 52 brand new 11 minute episodes, is already underway, with delivery to broadcasters, including Nick Jr. UK and Eire, expected in Spring 2014. Meanwhile, UK-based distributor Cake will again sell the new episodes internationally.

"Nick Jr. is the perfect home for Poppy Cat and her adventurous spirit," said Tim Patterson, VP and director of Programming at Nickelodeon UK and Ireland. "We look forward to premiering brand-new episodes for UK audiences in 2014."

Zoe Bamsey, director of Development and Production at Coolabi, has also announced that the new series will supported by exciting product lines available for consumers.

Poppy Cat is a capable, endearing, and determined six year-old ginger tabby cat. She's an adventurer, a dreamer, and a devoted friend. Poppy Cat's heroic gusto and unquenchable curiosity propel each adventure for her and her friends, often leading to unexpected experiences and discoveries. She is highly conscious of those around her and will go to the ends of the Earth to solve a problem. Poppy Cat loves adventure, but her top priority is always her friends, which is why she is the unspoken leader of her little gang. She's the glue that holds them all together. Poppy Cat encourages little ones to turn their everyday routines into extraordinary adventures.

From Licensing.biz:

Poppy Cat season 2 on the way

52 new episodes will be seen in the UK next year

Coolabi's popular pre-school show Poppy Cat is returning for a second season.

52 new 11 minute episodes will be seen in the UK on Nick Jr. in 2014.

“We are ecstatic that Poppy Cat has become such a hit with pre-schoolers and their families and Coolabi is thrilled to be producing a second series with our partners, Nickelodeon and Sprout,” said Zoe Bamsey, director of Development and Production at Coolabi.

“Poppy Cat encourages little ones to turn their everyday routines into extraordinary adventures, and the series will also be supported by exciting product lines available for consumers.”

Around the world, the show will be seen on Nick Jr. in Australia and Sprout in the US with Cake retaining the role of international distributor after season one was sold to almost 150 territories worldwide.

“Nick Jr. is the perfect home for Poppy Cat and her adventurous spirit,” said Tim Patterson, VP and director of Programming at Nickelodeon UK and Ireland. “

"We look forward to premiering brand-new episodes for UK audiences in 2014.”

Ed Galton, CCO & managing director at Cake, added, “Distributing season one has shown us that Poppy Cat has the potential to be a true modern classic.

"The market has really responded strongly and we look forward to extending our association with the brand with a second season.”

TAGS coolabi, poppy cat, nick jr

Also, from C21Media:

More Poppy Cat for Sprout, Nick

Preschool channels Sprout in the US and Nick Jr in the UK and Australia have commissioned a second season of Poppy Cat from UK-based prodco Coolabi.

Poppy Cat

The new order of 52x11′ episodes follows the international success of season one of Poppy Cat, which was sold to almost 150 territories worldwide, according to Coolabi.

The prechool series encourages children to develop their own imagination and creativity and is coproduced by Coolabi’s television production arm, Coolabi Productions, alongside UK prodco King Rollo Films.

Production for the animation is already underway, with delivery to broadcasters expected in spring 2014. Meanwhile, UK-based distributor Cake will again sell the new episodes internationally.

“Nick Jr is the perfect home for Poppy Cat and her adventurous spirit,” said Tim Patterson, VP, director of programming Nickelodeon UK and Ireland.

C21 reporter
03-09-2013
©C21Media

GENRES: Animation, Children's
SHOWS: Poppy Cat
COMPANIES: Coolabi Productions, Nick Jr
SECTIONS: C21Kids
COUNTRIES: Australia, UK, US

Nick Jr. UK's Poppy Cat Provides The Purrfect Summer Treat As She Arrives At Nickelodeon Land At Pleasure Beach, Blackpool For Her Summer Holidays

Blackpool Pleasure Beach has announced in a blog entry on the amusement park and resorts official website, blackpoolpleasurebeach.com, that, to celebrate the 2013 British and Irish school summer holidays, Nick Jr. UK star Poppy Cat will be visiting Nickelodeon Land at Pleasure Beach, Blackpool, the UK's ONLY Nickelodeon land, every day during the summer school holidays, where she will be participating in special Meet and Greet sessions with her fans, as well as hosting story time with children every day. There will also be a chance to get healthy and dance along to an energetic "Copy Poppy" routine, where families are encouraged to mimic the costume characters' dance movements in time with the Poppy Cat theme tune several times a day on the Nickelodeon Land stage!:

Poppy Cat provides the purrfect summer treat as she arrives at Nickelodeon Land!

Nickelodeon Land at Blackpool Pleasure Beach is about to welcome a very special character to the attraction!

Poppy Cat, from the hit Nick Jr series, will be joining the likes of SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer and the rest of the gang at the six-acre attraction for fun and story time!

The adventurous pussy cat will be appearing at Nickelodeon Land every day from July 30 where she will be meeting and greeting youngsters, as well as hosting story time with children every day.

There will also be a chance to get healthy and dance along to an energetic “Copy Poppy” routine, where families will be encouraged to mimic the costume characters’ dance movements in time with the Poppy Cat theme tune several times a day on the Nickelodeon Land stage.

Poppy Cat is aimed at the pre-school market and promises to bring extra fun to guests at Nickelodeon Land where younger children can learn and have fun with the colourful character, whilst enjoying the 12 amazing rides based on characters from one the world’s favourite children’s channels.

Poppy Cat is based on the award-winning books written and illustrated by Lara Jones which have sold over 2.5million copies worldwide. Poppy Cat and her friends enjoy extraordinary adventures and with a flick of her patchwork bandana, fantastic vehicles appear such as sailing ships to hot air balloons.

Managing Director of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Amanda Thompson OBE, said: “We cannot wait to welcome Poppy Cat to Nickelodeon Land at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

“We have such a vast array of amazing characters like SpongeBob and Dora so it will be nice to have a character who can interact with the even younger children that visit us with their families.

"I know she will be a hit when she tells her amazing stories and I am sure the children will all love her!"

The Stars Of Nick Jr. UK's "The Go!Go!Go! Show", "Peppa Pig" And "Poppy Cat" To Attend LolliBop 2013

UK Festival Guides, a website detailing upcoming festivals taking place around the UK, has announced in the following article the exciting Nick Jr. UK news that the stars and cast of the popular Nick Jr. Channel UK and Ireland preschool shows "The Go!Go!Go! Show", Peppa Pig and Poppy Cat will be attending LolliBop 2013, The Big Bash for Little People, which will be held over Friday 16th, Saturday 17th, and Sunday 18th August 2013 at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, East London, England, UK!

On the Lolli Live stage, the stars and cast of Nickelodeon UK and Eire's preschool channel, Nick Jr. Channel UK and Ireland, popular brand show, "The Go!Go!Go! Show" - Carl, Gemma, Jade, Holly, Steve, the inquisitive Mr. Baffled and Fluffalope - will be bringing brand new pop songs, catchy, easy-to-learn dance moves and loads of laughs to LolliBop 2013 attendees, whilst fans can watch and dance along with Poppy Cat with 'Copy Poppy'. Plus, Peppa Pig will also be hosting special meet and greet sessions with her fans all weekend!

You can find more information, including the current LolliBop 2013 guest programme, and book tickets to the festival here on the official LolliBop 2013 website, lollibopfestival.co.uk:

LOLLIBOP SET TO ROCK QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK THIS SUMMER

Lollibop Festival 2013

LolliBop, The Big Bash for Little People, is returning for 2013 to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, with an incredible line-up designed to delight mini festival goers.

Joining some of the hottest names in kids’ entertainment, as well as hundreds of activities, workshops and interactive demos, are the Mr. Men and Little Miss Village Green Event and Shaun the Sheep’s Championsheeps LIVE!

The ever-popular Mr. Men will be hosting a fun maypole activity area and favourite characters, such as Mr. Bump, Mr. Tickle and Little Miss Sunshine, will be meeting and greeting fans at the Mr. Men and Little Miss reading hubs.

Shaun the Sheep will be personally on hand at the Championsheeps with sheepy shenanigans, including Shirley’s Pie-athalon, the Naughty Pig’s Sack Race and Get Fit with the Flock. Kids and parents are ‘wool-come’ to get involved!

Other big names confirmed so far, include:

- LolliBop favourites Dick and Dom return with their special mix of madcap games, songs, jokes and a foam pie or two…

- Peppa Pig will be at the festival all weekend, meeting and greeting all her little fans

- Sid Sloane and Andy Day will be hosting their very own Big Birthday Bash and everyone is invited! Expect lots of energetic songs and silliness and plenty of audience participation

- Watch and learn how to ‘Copy Poppy’ with Poppy Cat on the Lolli Live stage

- Straight from Nickelodeon to the Lolli Live Stage, The Go! Go! Go! Show are bringing brand new pop songs, catchy, easy-to-learn dance moves and loads of laughs

- Sing and dance along with the adorable Cloudbabies mini show

- Older LolliBoppers will love The Diary of a Wimpy Kid activity, which include exclusive clips of the author Jeff Kinney talking about the books and a master class showing how he draws the characters. There’s also a Wimp Wars quiz

- Experience the life-size Transformer Optimus Prime Truck, along with the Transformers Station; showcasing the new Beast Hunters toys, viewings of the cartoon series Transformers Prime and free green screen pictures

- Witness the amazing wildlife showcase with National Geographic Kids Animal Man

- Laugh along with hilarious antics from the amazing 8ft Titan the Robot

Returning LolliBoppers will also see old favourites mixed with new attractions for 2013, including:

LolliBop Live – Popular CBeebies presenter Alex Winters is comparing the live stage which plays host to some of the biggest names in kids entertainment, with live music and performances from stars of stage and screen.

Lollipalladiam - is a live theatre tent showcasing performances from pioneering and internationally renowned companies and artists. This year it features Spooked, the critically acclaimed Broken Rose Performing Arts first show for children – a hilarious and spectacular blend of dance, theatre and spoken word featuring skeletons Molly, Jinny and Charlie.

Science Zone - Make a rocket, hold a dry ice cube, or get messy with gooey slime in the LolliBop lab - brimming with exploding experiments for pint sized guests to try! London’s Science Museum will also be attending with live demonstrations and interactive activities.

Run wild and have fun in the LolliSports area. With activities including retro favourites like swingball, hula-hoop and frisbee to football tournaments and sports day style races.

3ft and under is also making a comeback but this time is it within the brand new Itsy Bitsy Zone. Activities for babies and toddlers will include soft play, baby massage, storytelling, mini discos and much more

The Lolli Promenade – Situated on the River Lea!why not relax and enjoy an ice lolly at the Lolli Promenade which also features beach hut crafts and bandstands.

Discovery Zone - will host a number of educational, interactive and hands on activities where kids can learn a new skill like beatboxing in one of the many workshops.

Lolli Stops – Enjoy crafts from puppet making, and customised fashion workshops, to balloon modelling, and graffiti painting, there is a something to make and do around every corner.

The Meadows - A perfect spot to chill out, enjoy your lunch and watch the special street performers.

There is also a wide selection of food and drink stalls at LolliBop. Extensive covered buggy parks, baby changing and breast-feeding areas are also available.

More European Partners Named For Nick Jr. UK's "Poppy Cat" Animated Preschool Series

The children's entertainment and media news website Kidscreen is reporting the Nick Jr. UK News in the following article that three European licensees have joined Nick Junior UK and Coolabi's popular preschool series "Poppy Cat". Northern Leisure Group and Art You Grew Up With in the UK and Ireland, and Karto in Finland now belong to a growing list of partners for the preschool brand.

Northern Leisure Group, otherwise known as Kiddy Rides, a company which produces coin-operated rides for children, will distribute a brand new kids ride based on the popular preschool show, called The Poppy Cat Ride, in shopping centers and large stores throughout the UK from early 2014. The Poppy Cat Ride will feature the show’s theme song.

Art You Grew Up With will also produce prints of Poppy Cat, including signed artwork by the voice of Poppy Cat, Welsh actress Joanna Page ("Gavin & Stacey"). The two-year deal will see prints sold, either framed or unframed, ranging from 8″ x 8″ to 17″ x 15″.

Meanwhile, Karto will manufacture, distribute and sell "Poppy Cat" greeting cards, gift wrapping, gift bags and gift stickers. The goods will hit retail in September 2013 and will mark the first deal signed by new "Poppy Cat" agent Limo Licensing in Finland.

The popular "Poppy Cat" preschool series, commissioned by Nick Jr. UK, is co-produced by Coolabi's television production arm, Coolabi Productions, and King Rollo Films. The intellectual property saw its first wave of consumer products – including a mobile app – roll out in the UK during Summer 2012:

More European partners for Poppy Cat


Three European licensees have joined Coolabi’s Poppy Cat program. Northern Leisure Group and Art You Grew Up With in the UK and Ireland, and Karto in Finland now belong to a growing list of partners for the preschool brand.

Northern Leisure Group, otherwise known as Kiddy Rides, produces coin-operated rides for children. The Poppy Cat ride will feature the show’s theme song and will be distributed in shopping centers and large stores throughout the UK early next year.

Art You Grew Up With will produce prints of Poppy Cat, including signed artwork by the voice of Poppy Cat, Joanna Page. The two-year deal will see prints sold, either framed or unframed, ranging from 8″ x 8″ to 17″ x 15″.

Meanwhile, Karto will manufacture, distribute and sell Poppy Cat greeting cards, gift wrapping, gift bags and gift stickers. The goods will hit retail in September and mark the first deal signed by new Poppy Cat agent Limo Licensing in Finland.

Poppy Cat, the series is co-produced by Coolabi’s television production arm, Coolabi Productions, and King Rollo Films and was commissioned by Nick Jr in the UK. The IP saw its first wave of consumer products – including a mobile app – roll out in the UK last summer.

Tags: Coolabi, Licensing, Poppy Cat, preschool TV

John Lewis Oxford Street Holds UK Launch Party To Celebrate Poppy Cat's Brand New Toy And Book Merchandise Range

The Nickelodeon UK Press Office has announced on their official Twitter profile page (@NickelodeonUKPR) that, on Thursday 1st November 2012 between 11.00am to 12.30pm, the Oxford Street branch of the UK department store chain John Lewis hosted a very special launch party event to celebrate Nick Jr. UK Star Poppy Cat's brand new toy and book line!

We had a great morning with Nick JR. star @PoppyCat_ at the launch of the new range at John Lewis. It was purrrrrfect! pic.twitter.com/ttA6nVSv

According to the "Lilinha Angel's World" and "Savette.com" parenting blogs, as part of the "Exclusive Poppy Cat VIP Blogger Party" at John Lewis Oxford Street to celebrate the launch of Poppy Cat's brand new merchandise line, lucky attendees were able to meet and greet 'Poppy Cat' and Joanna Page (the voice of 'Poppy Cat'; "Gavin & Stacey") in person, and were treated to a special breakfast in a "Poppy Cat" decorated room. After breakfast, attendees could then attend a special "Poppy Cat" story telling session in John Lewis' toy's department, where visitors were treated to an action packed story reading from the new "Poppy Cat" books called "All Aboard" and "Blast Off". The John Lewis Poppy Cat day also featured a great "Poppy Cat" colouring-in corner and a chance for visitors to enter a special draw to win a new "Talking Poppy Cat" toy and copies of the new "Poppy Cat" books, and every child who attended also received a great "Poppy Cat" sticker to take home!

You can find out more information about and view photographs from John Lewis Oxford Street's "Poppy Cat" event to celebrate the brand new "Poppy Cat" book and toy range "Lilinha Angel's World" and "Savette.com" parenting blogs.

Nick Jr. UK Unveils Brand New "Poppy Cat" Competition To Win A Special "Poppy Cat" Prize Pack!

To celebrate Nick Jr. UK and Ireland showing the popular animated preschool series "Poppy Cat" at 7.00am every day on Nick Jr. 2, the official Nick Jr. UK and Ireland website, NickJr.co.uk, has launched a brand new and exclusive "Poppy Cat" competition which is giving one lucky "Poppy Cat" fan and viewer of Nickelodeon UK's Nick Jr. preschool channels the chance to join Poppy Cat and her friends on exciting adventures with their very own Poppy Cat pack full of great "Poppy Cat" merchandise, including a brand new "Poppy Cat" DVD called "Birthday Treasure and Other Adventures" starring "Gavin and Stacey" star Joanna Page (the voice of Poppy Cat), two new "Poppy Cat" storybooks called "Blast Off" and "All Aboard", a "Poppy Cat" 4 in 1 shaped puzzle, and a very special Talking Poppy Cat Soft Toy, courtesy of Lionsgate, Golden Bear, MacMillan and Jumbo!

Below is more information about Nick Junior UK's brand new "Poppy Cat" contest from Nick Jr.'s official "Poppy Cat" competition webpage on the official Nick Jr. UK website, NickJr.co.uk, where you can also enter Nick Jr. UK's exclusive "Poppy Cat" competition:

Poppy Cat Competition

To celebrate Poppy Cat’s new timeslot on Nick Jr. 2 at 7am every day, we are offering one lucky winner the chance to join Poppy Cat and her friends on exciting adventures with their very own Poppy Cat pack.

For your chance to win this fantastic prize, all you need to do is answer the question below:

What does Poppy Cat wear around her neck?

A pogo stick
A hat
A neckerchief

[Click here to enter Nick Jr. UK's exclusive "Poppy Cat" competition on the official Nick Jr. UK website, NickJr.co.uk!]

Prizes

1st

* Poppy Cat prize pack includes:A brand new DVD called 'Birthday Treasure and Other Adventures' starring Gavin and Stacey star Joanna Page (the voice of Poppy Cat)

* Two new storybooks called 'Blast Off' and 'All Aboard'

* A Poppy Cat 4 in 1 Shaped Puzzle

*A Talking Poppy Cat Soft Toy

© 2012 Coolabi Productions Limited. Prizes courtesy of Lionsgate, Golden Bear, MacMillan and Jumbo.

We [Nick Jr. UK] will not share your details with any other person or business.

The competition closes 4pm on Monday 5th November 2012

Coolabi And Studio Liddell To Release First "Poppy Cat" Smartphone App, Based On The Popular Animated Preschool Series, In August 2012

From Kidscreen:

Poppy Cat hits the App Store

UK-based preschool property Poppy Cat is getting its first app thanks to a new digital partnership between its producer and rights management company Coolabi and UK animators Studio Liddell.

The first Poppy Cat app for iOS and Android smartphones and tablets is set to launch this August in English-speaking territories.

Adding to the recent growth of the IP, Coolabi has also expanded a deal with publishing partner Redan that will see Poppy Cat included in the first Fun to Learn Friends Annual, which will be available in the UK and Eire from August next year (2013).

The first wave of Poppy Cat consumer products are rolling out in the UK this summer with goods from licensees including Golden Bear and Jumbo Games (toys), Macmillan (TV tie-in books) and Aykroyds and TDP (apparel).

The TV series, based on author Lara Jones’ bestselling books of the same name, currently airs in more than 90 territories worldwide and is a top-rated show on commissioning channel Nick Jr. UK and on Sprout in the US.

The latest deals follow closely on the heels of Cake Entertainment securing a home entertainment deal in the UK with Lionsgate for the series.

Tags: apps, Coolabi, Poppy Cat, Redan, Studio Liddell

London-Based 'Cake Entertainment' Signs UK Home Entertainment Deal For Nick Jr. UK's Animated Preschool Show "Poppy Cat"

From Kidscreen:

Poppy Cat gets Lionsgate UK home entertainment deal

London-based Cake Entertainment has secured a home entertainment deal in the UK with Lionsgate for preschool series Poppy Cat.

The Coolabi-produced series based on author Lara Jones’ bestselling books of the same name currently airs in more than 90 territories worldwide.

It is now a top-rated show on commissioning channel Nick Jr. UK and on Sprout in the US. The series will also launch on the new NBC Kids weekend block in the US from July, making it available in more than 110 million US homes.

Additional broadcasters airing Poppy Cat include EBS in Korea, Disney Junior (Spain and Latin America), France 5, Al Jazeera Children’s Channel, e-vision (UAE), SVT (Sweden), S4C (Wales), EBS (Korea), OKTO (Singapore), Nickelodeon (Australia), TVO and Knowledge Network (Canada), NRK (Norway), RTÉ (Ireland) and CiTV (UK).

The new deal adds to the increasing list of licensees for the property in the UK, which includes toyco Golden Bear for plush, plastics and arts & crafts products launching this fall. The Joester Loria Group handles licensing for the brand in North America.

Tags: Cake Entertainment, Coolabi, home entertainment, Lionsgate, Poppy Cat, UK

New French And Korean Agents For Coolabi's Animated Preschool Series "Poppy Cat"; Golden Bear To Release "Poppy Cat" Merchandise From Autumn 2012

From Kidscreen:

New French and Korean agents for Poppy Cat

UK-based producer and rights management company Coolabi has secured two new licensing agents for preschool property Poppy Cat, appointing Planeta Junior in France and Asiana Licensing in Korea.

The new deals further expand the scope of the IP, which currently has 11 licensees on board in the UK including toyco Golden Bear for plush, plastics and arts and crafts products launching this fall. The Joester Loria Group handles licensing for the brand in North America.

Poppy Cat is set to air on France 5 in June. (Distributor Cake Entertainment sold the series to France Télévisions in February.)

Poppy Cat currently airs on EBS in Korea, and other broadcasters include Disney Junior (Spain and Latin America), Al Jazeera Children's Channel, e-vision (UAE), SVT (Sweden), S4C (Wales), EBS (Korea), OKTO (Singapore), Nickelodeon (Australia), TVO and Knowledge Network (Canada), NRK (Norway), RTÉ (Ireland) and CiTV (UK).

The series will also launch on the new NBC Kids weekend block in the US from July making it available in more than 110 million US homes.

Tags: Asiana Licensing, Coolabi, France, Korea, Planeta Junior, Poppy Cat