Tuesday, March 20, 2018
Farnaz Esnaashari-Charmatz | Shimmer and Shine | Women's History Month | Nickelodeon Animation
“Nothing worth having ever comes easy.” Shimmer and Shine creator Farnaz Esnaashari-Charmatz is a woman in animation Nickelodeon Animation is very proud to celebrate this Women’s History Month! “I have the opportunity to be a part of children’s memories, it is the most amazing feeling,” she says. “Through this series, I’m hoping to teach kids endurance and resilience—to not let obstacles get in your way. There is always a way to figure things out.“ Listen to Farnaz’s full episode of the Nick Animation Podcast!
Nickelodeon USA To Premiere New Competition Series 'Keep It Spotless' On Monday 26th March 2018 [Updated]
Nickelodeon USA will premiere the networks brand-new competition series, Keep It Spotless, where teams of kids go head-to-head in messy battles with one goal - to stay clean, on Monday 26th March 2018 at 7:30 P.M. (ET/PT)! Executive produced by WWE Superstar John Cena, the host of the 2018 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards for the second year in the row, the series, which gives a whole new meaning to staying clean, will air weekdays at 7:30 P.M. (ET/PT). Click HERE to watch the trailer on For The Win!
Update: Nickelodeon has digitally premiered a episode of Keep It Spotless on nick.com and on the Nick App! In the episode, "Use Your Head" (Season 1, Episode 4), two teams play the ultimate game of paint wars. Aim is key as they fly high to finish a challenge and then use their heads to complete another one.
Keep It Spotless features kids competing in a variety of physical and paint-filled challenges designed with one goal in mind--to stay as clean as possible. After each game, a 360 degree scanner will measure each teams’ mess to determine just how spotless they really are. The winning team will face The Gauntlet, a multiple-challenge obstacle course, where they can turn their cleanliness into cold hard cash. Keep It Spotless is produced by ITV Entertainment and Hard Nocks South Productions, based on a UK format from Possessed.
Below is Nickelodeon's official show description of Keep It Spotless:
"From Executive Producer, John Cena, comes Keep It Spotless – a brand new Nickelodeon game show where kids compete to stay clean throughout a series of very messy challenges! In each episode, teams of kids wearing ultra-white morph suits, compete in a series of physical games where they have one goal — to stay spotless! But it won’t be easy, as each round presents them with increasingly challenging paint-filled obstacles. At the end of each game, a 360-degree scanner will measure their mess and determine just how clean they really are. The team who can stay the cleanest will have the opportunity to run an exciting final course where they can win big!"
Nickelodeon released the following statement from the WWE star:
"I'm so excited to bring my own mania to Nickelodeon with Keep It Spotless," said John Cena. "It's truly been an honor to step behind the camera and create a hilarious game show with kids for kids. So get ready to see the most epic, funniest, cleanest show on television starting March 26!"
The series premiere of Keep It Spotless will be titled "I'm Not a Worm" (#102).
In addition to being behind the camera on Keep It Spotless, Cena will be in front of the camera as host 2018 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards for the second year running, airing live from the “Fabulous” Forum in Inglewood, California on Nickelodeon USA and YTV in Canada from 8:00 P.M. (ET/PT) on Saturday 24th March 2018, and on Nickelodeon channels around the world within hours of the live show. Cena will also be lending his voice to an original villain named Baron Draxum in the brand-new 2D animated series Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, premiering late 2018.
Update: Nickelodeon has digitally premiered a episode of Keep It Spotless on nick.com and on the Nick App! In the episode, "Use Your Head" (Season 1, Episode 4), two teams play the ultimate game of paint wars. Aim is key as they fly high to finish a challenge and then use their heads to complete another one.
Keep It Spotless features kids competing in a variety of physical and paint-filled challenges designed with one goal in mind--to stay as clean as possible. After each game, a 360 degree scanner will measure each teams’ mess to determine just how spotless they really are. The winning team will face The Gauntlet, a multiple-challenge obstacle course, where they can turn their cleanliness into cold hard cash. Keep It Spotless is produced by ITV Entertainment and Hard Nocks South Productions, based on a UK format from Possessed.
Below is Nickelodeon's official show description of Keep It Spotless:
"From Executive Producer, John Cena, comes Keep It Spotless – a brand new Nickelodeon game show where kids compete to stay clean throughout a series of very messy challenges! In each episode, teams of kids wearing ultra-white morph suits, compete in a series of physical games where they have one goal — to stay spotless! But it won’t be easy, as each round presents them with increasingly challenging paint-filled obstacles. At the end of each game, a 360-degree scanner will measure their mess and determine just how clean they really are. The team who can stay the cleanest will have the opportunity to run an exciting final course where they can win big!"
Nickelodeon released the following statement from the WWE star:
"I'm so excited to bring my own mania to Nickelodeon with Keep It Spotless," said John Cena. "It's truly been an honor to step behind the camera and create a hilarious game show with kids for kids. So get ready to see the most epic, funniest, cleanest show on television starting March 26!"
The series premiere of Keep It Spotless will be titled "I'm Not a Worm" (#102).
In addition to being behind the camera on Keep It Spotless, Cena will be in front of the camera as host 2018 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards for the second year running, airing live from the “Fabulous” Forum in Inglewood, California on Nickelodeon USA and YTV in Canada from 8:00 P.M. (ET/PT) on Saturday 24th March 2018, and on Nickelodeon channels around the world within hours of the live show. Cena will also be lending his voice to an original villain named Baron Draxum in the brand-new 2D animated series Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, premiering late 2018.
'The Thundermans' Star Jack Griffo To Guest Star As 'Sir Swayze' On 'Knight Squad' | Nickelodeon
Although The Thundermans will be ending soon, Jack Griffo isn’t leaving Nickelodeon just yet — he’s guest starring on Nickelodeon's latest hit comedy series, Knight Squad!
The Thundermans star revealed on his Instagram Stories that he’ll be on the new series as Sir Swayze in an upcoming episode. There's no word whether Sir Swayze's first name will be Patrick, however.
Jack also had to shave his mustache off for the part.
“Baby faced yet again for Knight Squad,” he confirmed with another pic.
If you don’t know, Knight Squad airs Saturday nights on Nickelodeon USA and centers on two mismatched students who form an unlikely alliance to protect each other’s secret and pursue their dreams at a magical school for knights in training. The series is created and executive produced by Sean Cunningham & Marc Dworkin, executive producers of The Thundermans.
Jack Griffo, his co-star Kira Kosarin, and their hit Nick show The Thundermans have also been nominated in Nickelodeon 2018 Kids' Choice Awards! Hosted by WWE superstar John Cena, KCA 2018 airs live from the “Fabulous” Forum in Inglewood, California on Saturday March 24th at 8 P.M. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon USA and YTV in Canada, and on Nickelodeon channels around the world within hours of the live show!
Nickelodeon will be premiering more brand-new episodes of The Thundermans, including its epic two-part series finale, this Summer.
More Nick: Nickelodeon Orders 'Henry Danger' Season 5!
Original source: Just Jared Jr.
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Google+, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon, The Thundermans and Knight Squad News and Highlights!
The Thundermans star revealed on his Instagram Stories that he’ll be on the new series as Sir Swayze in an upcoming episode. There's no word whether Sir Swayze's first name will be Patrick, however.
Jack also had to shave his mustache off for the part.
“Baby faced yet again for Knight Squad,” he confirmed with another pic.
If you don’t know, Knight Squad airs Saturday nights on Nickelodeon USA and centers on two mismatched students who form an unlikely alliance to protect each other’s secret and pursue their dreams at a magical school for knights in training. The series is created and executive produced by Sean Cunningham & Marc Dworkin, executive producers of The Thundermans.
Jack Griffo, his co-star Kira Kosarin, and their hit Nick show The Thundermans have also been nominated in Nickelodeon 2018 Kids' Choice Awards! Hosted by WWE superstar John Cena, KCA 2018 airs live from the “Fabulous” Forum in Inglewood, California on Saturday March 24th at 8 P.M. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon USA and YTV in Canada, and on Nickelodeon channels around the world within hours of the live show!
Nickelodeon will be premiering more brand-new episodes of The Thundermans, including its epic two-part series finale, this Summer.
More Nick: Nickelodeon Orders 'Henry Danger' Season 5!
Original source: Just Jared Jr.
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Google+, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon, The Thundermans and Knight Squad News and Highlights!
Nickelodeon's Alexi Wheeler and Lynsey O'Callaghan to Attend Animation Dingle 2018 in Ireland
Senior executives from Nickelodeon will be among the key industry professionals attending the sixth-annual Animation Dingle conference in Ireland later this week.
Taking place from Friday 23rd - Saturday 24th March 2018, Animation Dingle brings together industry participants and students to celebrate leading animation from Ireland and around the world. The event is co-founded by JAM Media CEO John Rice and Dingle International Film Festival head Maurice Galway.
This year’s edition will feature panels, workshops, the 2018 International Student Animation Awards and screenings of more than 120 shorts and features.
Other industry notables heading to Dingle include executives from Apple, Netflix, BBC, RTÉ, Turner and Disney—as well as Oscar-nominated director Peter Lord (The Pirates! Band of Misfits), Pixar animator Bobby Podesta (Cars 3), Apple’s new head of children’s programming, Tara Sorensen (ex-Amazon Studios), L.A.-based creature designer Dan Katcher, who is best known for his dragon design work on HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones, and Disney Channels EMEA VP of programming, production and strategic development, David Levine.
Along with recognizing emerging students, the festival also presents The Murakami Award for outstanding achievement in animation. This year, the award will go to Cathal Gaffney and Darragh O’Connell of Brown Bag Films (Peter Rabbit, Butterbean's Cafe). Previous winners include Jimmy T. Murakami (The Snowman), Richie Baneham (Avatar) and Tomm Moore (Song of the Sea).
Additional conference activities include five-minute speed pitching sessions, a charity-based sketch competition event entitled The Big Pitcher (where one winning student will be offered a six-month paid internship at JAM Media), and a festival pass to Cartoon Springboard.
Animation Dingle, which is funded by Enterprise Ireland and the Irish Film Board, features a one-to-one female to male ratio and a 50/50 ratio of students to industry participants.
Below is a list of Nickelodeon's Animation Dingle 2018 highlights. A full conference lineup can be found here.
Conference:
The Big Short Panel:
Public bodies and broadcasters share information regarding various schemes for short form animated content. The panel will outline the aims and objectives of funds which are available.
Chaired by Steve Woods (Cel Division), panelists Alexi Wheeler (Nickelodeon), Teresa McGrane (IFB), Jo Allen (BBC), Pauline McNamara (RTE) will discuss the different funding options out there for anyone looking to make an animated short.
Date - Friday 23rd of March 2018
Time - 10:00
Venue - Dingle Skellig Hotel
Duration - 45 minutes
CHECK OUT THE SPEAKERS
Broadcaster Panel
Commercial and public service broadcasters share strategies and tell how they can be approached with ideas.
Come along to this event where Lynsey O’Callaghan (Nickelodeon), Jackie Edwards (BBC), David Levine (Disney), and Vicky Schroderus (YLE) will share their valuable knowledge.
Jeremy Dickson (Kidscreen), chairing, will cast out for nuggets from this highly experienced panel.
Date - Friday 23rd of March 2018
Time - 11:45
Venue - Dingle Skellig Hotel
Duration - 45 minutes
Pitch & Pint:
Students take part in 5-minute meetings with industry experts. Pitch your portfolio, your idea, or yourself.
Pitch participants in 2018 will include – Nickelodeon, Amazon Studios, BBC, Boulder Media, JAM Media, Brown Bag Films, Darrall Macqueen, Netflix, Turner, Apple, Pixar, Lighthouse Studios, Giant, Piranha Bar, Disney Channels and more!
HOW TO GET THE BEST OF YOUR 5 MINUTES:
Idea – Allow enough time to not only pitch your idea but to also get feedback and to answer any queries.
Portfolio – Select your finest work, something that will make an impact and have a lasting impression, and best represents your work and interests.
You – Be able to sell yourself within the space of two minutes, leaving enough room for advice, feedback, or questions.
This event is open to festival pass holders only and places are limited.
This event is open to Students and recent graduates only.
Click here to apply.
International Student Animation Awards
Animation Dingle will host the annual International Student Animation Awards again this year!
Animation Dingle looking forward to seeing who their judges pick as the winners in each of their 10 categories. Animation Dingle's external judges this year are: Jessica Kennedy (Nickelodeon), Helen McAleer, Chris Rose (Beano), Sarah Fell (Turner), Sheila de Courcy (Writer/Director/Producer) and Jo Allen (BBC).
Click here for a list of Animation Dingle's International Student Animation Awards 2018 nominees. Best of luck to all of of Animation Dingle's nominees!
Taking place from Friday 23rd - Saturday 24th March 2018, Animation Dingle brings together industry participants and students to celebrate leading animation from Ireland and around the world. The event is co-founded by JAM Media CEO John Rice and Dingle International Film Festival head Maurice Galway.
This year’s edition will feature panels, workshops, the 2018 International Student Animation Awards and screenings of more than 120 shorts and features.
Other industry notables heading to Dingle include executives from Apple, Netflix, BBC, RTÉ, Turner and Disney—as well as Oscar-nominated director Peter Lord (The Pirates! Band of Misfits), Pixar animator Bobby Podesta (Cars 3), Apple’s new head of children’s programming, Tara Sorensen (ex-Amazon Studios), L.A.-based creature designer Dan Katcher, who is best known for his dragon design work on HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones, and Disney Channels EMEA VP of programming, production and strategic development, David Levine.
Along with recognizing emerging students, the festival also presents The Murakami Award for outstanding achievement in animation. This year, the award will go to Cathal Gaffney and Darragh O’Connell of Brown Bag Films (Peter Rabbit, Butterbean's Cafe). Previous winners include Jimmy T. Murakami (The Snowman), Richie Baneham (Avatar) and Tomm Moore (Song of the Sea).
Additional conference activities include five-minute speed pitching sessions, a charity-based sketch competition event entitled The Big Pitcher (where one winning student will be offered a six-month paid internship at JAM Media), and a festival pass to Cartoon Springboard.
Animation Dingle, which is funded by Enterprise Ireland and the Irish Film Board, features a one-to-one female to male ratio and a 50/50 ratio of students to industry participants.
Below is a list of Nickelodeon's Animation Dingle 2018 highlights. A full conference lineup can be found here.
Conference:
The Big Short Panel:
Public bodies and broadcasters share information regarding various schemes for short form animated content. The panel will outline the aims and objectives of funds which are available.
Chaired by Steve Woods (Cel Division), panelists Alexi Wheeler (Nickelodeon), Teresa McGrane (IFB), Jo Allen (BBC), Pauline McNamara (RTE) will discuss the different funding options out there for anyone looking to make an animated short.
Date - Friday 23rd of March 2018
Time - 10:00
Venue - Dingle Skellig Hotel
Duration - 45 minutes
CHECK OUT THE SPEAKERS
Broadcaster Panel
Commercial and public service broadcasters share strategies and tell how they can be approached with ideas.
Come along to this event where Lynsey O’Callaghan (Nickelodeon), Jackie Edwards (BBC), David Levine (Disney), and Vicky Schroderus (YLE) will share their valuable knowledge.
Jeremy Dickson (Kidscreen), chairing, will cast out for nuggets from this highly experienced panel.
Date - Friday 23rd of March 2018
Time - 11:45
Venue - Dingle Skellig Hotel
Duration - 45 minutes
Pitch & Pint:
Students take part in 5-minute meetings with industry experts. Pitch your portfolio, your idea, or yourself.
Pitch participants in 2018 will include – Nickelodeon, Amazon Studios, BBC, Boulder Media, JAM Media, Brown Bag Films, Darrall Macqueen, Netflix, Turner, Apple, Pixar, Lighthouse Studios, Giant, Piranha Bar, Disney Channels and more!
HOW TO GET THE BEST OF YOUR 5 MINUTES:
Idea – Allow enough time to not only pitch your idea but to also get feedback and to answer any queries.
Portfolio – Select your finest work, something that will make an impact and have a lasting impression, and best represents your work and interests.
You – Be able to sell yourself within the space of two minutes, leaving enough room for advice, feedback, or questions.
This event is open to festival pass holders only and places are limited.
This event is open to Students and recent graduates only.
Click here to apply.
International Student Animation Awards
Animation Dingle will host the annual International Student Animation Awards again this year!
Animation Dingle looking forward to seeing who their judges pick as the winners in each of their 10 categories. Animation Dingle's external judges this year are: Jessica Kennedy (Nickelodeon), Helen McAleer, Chris Rose (Beano), Sarah Fell (Turner), Sheila de Courcy (Writer/Director/Producer) and Jo Allen (BBC).
Click here for a list of Animation Dingle's International Student Animation Awards 2018 nominees. Best of luck to all of of Animation Dingle's nominees!
BWW Interview: Kelsey Krull Plays Pink Pilot Pup Skye in 'PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure'
A stroll outside of Madison Square Garden following a family-oriented show typically includes two things: lots of character-inspired costumes, and lots of smiling faces, children and adults alike. For many children who wander out with popcorn buckets and new toys, this is their first theatrical experience that has hopefully made for a memorable day for the whole family. When PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure makes a tour stop at the Hulu Theater this upcoming weekend, you're sure to see that same joy flooding out of the Garden. Performer Kelsey Krull from PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure spoke with BroadwayWorld about bringing these animated pups to life for audiences from all over.
Kelsey Krull
The Great Pirate Adventure is PAW Patrol Live!'s second touring production, first taking the stage in the fall of 2017 and plans to tour the U.S. and Canada through the end of 2018. Based on Nickelodeon's number one animated television series, PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure, produced by Spin Master Entertainment, features the multitalented, heroic pups - including Chase (Brandon Delsid), Rubble (Jordan Elman), and Skye (Kelsey Krull), along with Ryder (Tony Ardolino) - on a mission to find the pirate treasure before Mayor Humdinger (Matt Lamb) does.
Krull has been with the show since it began touring in September 2017. Prior to joining PAW Patrol Live!, she had heard about the animated television show from her younger cousins, with the popularity of the show reaching many children in the two-to-six age group. "Each pup has their own individual talent which is great for the kids because every kid can identify with each pup," Krull says. Kids can see themselves within these characters, with the theatrical experience bringing the at-home television experience to the stage before their eyes. Now, they get to sing, dance, and play along with the pups as they save the day. "[They] go through the journey with that pup while they're in their seats."
Krull gets to bring a fan favorite, Skye, to life every day. Skye is the pilot pup, and the only female pup on the squad. "[Skye] gets to bring a different energy to the PAW Patrol - a female presence. She's pink which is great," Krull jokes. Young audience members dress up like her, and cheer her on as she's introduced. "It's awesome when you first come out onstage to hear all the kids screaming her name. It's awesome to be able to represent a character that means so much to so many people."
The cast of
The familiarity of these characters is at the heart of PAW Patrol Live!. Kids at home see the pups every day on the screen - with their families, when they wake up in the morning, during lunchtime. These characters are a constant presence, and Krull and her fellow cast members took as much care and did as much research for their portrayals as they would any theatrical or true-to-life role. "These children know these pups inside and out. They are their best friends, they see them every day on TV and you want to represent them in the most honest way possible," Krull explains. Preparation involved watching lots of PAW Patrol, and collaborating with Nickelodeon during the rehearsal process to get these pups just right. In addition, the actors had to work on morphing into their characters via their intricately constructed costumes.
On the television show, Skye often dons aviation goggles and wings when jetting off to the rescue. She swaps wings for a pink pirate hat and white puffy shirt in The Great Pirate Adventure as the pups head off on a treasure hunt. Krull says these unique costumes are made by hand, taking thousands of hours to craft in a reimagined style of traditional bunraku puppetry, making for a look that doesn't distract from the action happening onstage. The mouths and eyes move, the pups' ears wiggle - the brightly colored, fully functional four-legged costumes animate these characters in real life. "It's a really effective image and illusion for the children - and the adults, too - that we're there helping the pups come to life," Krull says. "We're one entity with our costumes with our pups."
In this way, PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure is on such a scale artistically as any Broadway production, only the performers get to bring this story to a great many locations while on tour. Krull, having worked on VStar Entertainment's Sesame Street's touring productions as well, says bringing the "gift of theatre" to so many children is the reward of it all. "These children are in such a developmental stage in their lives," she says. "To be exposed to PAW Patrol Live! and other children's shows -- it's a milestone for them. And it's awesome to think that I'm a part of that."
PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure will play the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY from March 22nd through March 25th. V.I.P. - Very Important Pup - packages are also available, which include premium seating, an V.I.P. after party with Ryder and two PAW Patrol characters, an exclusive PAW Patrol-themed cinch bag, unique photo ops, activities, and more.
PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure will also be stopping at the Tucker Civic Center in Tallahassee, Florida for two performances on Saturday, July 21 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
PAW Patrol Live! "Race to the Rescue" also continues its live tour, and will be performing four shows at McCaw Hall at the Seattle Center in Seattle, Washington this April:
Monday, April 2 at 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 3 at 10:00 a.m.
Tuesday, April 3 at 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 3 at 6:00 p.m.
For tickets to the nine MSG performances, future tour dates, and more information on the PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure, please visit https://www.pawpatrollive.com/.
X barks the spot in the new tour PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure! It's Pirate Day in Adventure Bay, and Mayor Goodway is getting ready for a big celebration! But first, Ryder and his team of pirate pups must rescue Cap'n Turbot from a mysterious cavern. When they do, they also discover a secret pirate treasure map! The PAW Patrol set out over land and sea to find the treasure for Mayor Goodway's celebration before Mayor Humdinger finds it first! The pups will need all paws on deck for this pirate adventure, including some help from the newest pup ... Tracker!
Following the success of its North American tour, PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure will set sail for the UK and Australia later this year.
Also, from The Jefferson Chronicle:
Homegrown in Jefferson, Township Grad is on Patrol
Get ready, people. Antonio “Tony” Ardolino is on patrol!
Yes, the Jefferson native and 2010 graduate of the township’s high school is living the dream of many a preschooler in the U.S. He will soon be part of the PAW Patrol as Ryder, the precocious kid on Nickelodeon’s successful animated program. Led by Ryder, the beloved pup patrol performs helpful missions in Adventure Bay by working as a team.
Tony Ardolino, JTHS Class of 2010. (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
Although animated himself in person, Ardolino will portray a genuine human Ryder in a live production of the popular Nick Jr. show when it takes to the road nationally. PAW Patrol Live! launches its New York-New Jersey metropolitan area tour this week at Madison Square Garden.
Tony Ardolino as Ryder in PAW Patrol Live! (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
But Ardolino is also fulfilling his own dreams. As a second grader living in Cozy Lake, the actor fondly remembers being inspired seeing the show Beauty and the Beast. “I loved it so much,” he says, adding that he wanted to be up on stage with the characters.
“I wanted to pursue a career in theater since that second-grade day,” Ardolino tells The Jefferson Chronicle. “The best part is that my mother and father never doubted me. They cheered me on every step of the way, and that helped me shoot for the stars.” The young actor took the advice of his parents and has landed among the stars.
The Ardolinos, proud parents and Tony as Ryder. (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
Moving to Los Angeles right after high school, Ardolino studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where he further honed his talent. “Even when I wasn’t on a film set or a national tour, I was still performing at Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland,” he notes, adding that he also performed in regional theater and opera houses around California.
“Since then, I’ve been performing all over the country, and have acted in both television and film,” he says. In addition, he tells The Chronicle, he has worked on countless commercials, including one with David Hasselhoff.
Following his California stint, Ardolino was based for two years with Universal Studios Singapore, where he had the opportunity to write and direct shows as well as travel and act throughout Asia.
Passion for Acting Rooted in the Township
But it was in his hometown of Jefferson that Ardolino became grounded in his love of acting, and where it became his passion.
“In elementary school, I was always in choir,” he says. “I remember the first time they announced who got the solo for the winter concert. It was like American Idol to me,” he quips. “When Mrs. Courtney picked me, I think she mispronounced my last name. She was like ‘Ard-…Ardo…Ardolono?’ and I stood up and said with excitement, Ardolino!”
Although he got the choir solo that year, there were no musicals until middle school – where, it might be said, Ardolino got that proverbial first big break, winning the title role of Aladdin in the Disney version of the musical. Even at a young age, he never got stage fright. “I was always excited to be on stage,” he remembers. “I was kind of a shy kid growing up. I used that time on stage to say, ‘Look at me.’”
The beginning of a career – the early days in Jefferson Township. (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
At Jefferson Township High School, Ardolino was involved with just about every performing arts type of activity – every level of choir, the music honor society, and the drama club.
“I also teamed up with Mrs. Latronica of child development,” he recalls, noting that she was one of his favorite teachers. Ardolino wrote an original script, made costumes, and directed teens in a show for tots. “Word spread around town fast of the cute children’s show and we were asked to bring it to Milton School and Stanlick School so those kids could see it too,” he adds.
“Like any kid who wants to be a performer, high school was a very interesting place,” Ardolino tells The Chronicle, with emphasis on the word “interesting.” He muses, “I used to make a performance out of every presentation, just to entertain the class.”
Tony Ardolino in a performance as a student at Jefferson Township High School. (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
Extracurricular Acting
While living in Jefferson, Ardolino also performed outside of school every chance he got. “While other kids had baseball practice, my mom and grandma used to drive me from theater to theater, just so I got to perform,” he recalls. Among them were The All Children’s Theater, Parsippany; The Growing Stage, Netcong; The Baker Ballroom Theater, Dover; and the Brundage Park Playhouse, Randolph. But Ardolino says that his favorite place to perform was the Pax Amicus Castle Theater, Budd Lake.
“It was run by the incredible Stan Barber,” he says. “Performing at Pax Amicus was a highlight growing up. I encourage any young performer to do a show there and be inspired by Stan and the rest of the amazing people,” he adds.
“Of course, there were some people who never really ‘understood’ me and my passion to perform. But my mother and father used to say, ‘Don’t worry – every kick is a boost.’ I’ve remembered that all my life,” he notes.
Even with the kicks, there were, and still are, so many boosts. The latest, of course, is the role of Ryder. “Getting cast as Ryder in Nickelodeon’s PAW Patrol Live! is something I will never forget,” says Ardolino, noting it was his first audition upon returning from Singapore.
Experience of a Lifetime
“There were so many people for the role and I waited a long time to be seen by the casting directors. They gave me a song to sing and a monologue for the show. I then had to show off my dancing skills and hope for the best,” he tells The Chronicle.
“I remember after my audition, I wanted the part so badly, and then I began to see PAW Patrol stuff everywhere,” he recalls. His mother suggested it was a positive sign. Ardolino was in Times Square in Manhattan, heading for an audition, when he received the call from VStar/Nickelodeon. “I literally froze and couldn’t believe it! They were offering me the lead role of Ryder.”
The actor says it has been an experience of a lifetime. “Not only do I get to be in a state-of-the-art show that performs in huge arenas and gorgeous theaters, but I also get to travel all over the United States and Canada,” he says enthusiastically. “Plus, I love getting to be Ryder. I mean, to be a part of the Nick Jr. legacy is one thing, but then to originate the role in this show is another level of awesomeness.”
He adds, “I always get goosebumps when I first appear on stage and hear all the kids say, ‘Look Mommy, it’s Ryder!’ It’s literally the most amazing feeling.” Ardolino says he also loves what Ryder stands for. “He shows kids to be smart, brave, and to always lend a helping hand. Ryder and his pups mean so much to so many kids, and I am so happy to bring him to life every day,” he says.
Stepping on that stage is the hardest thing to describe, says the actor. “My heart beats like crazy right before I go on stage. But as soon as I’m in the spotlight, I am the most calm I’ve ever been,” he adds. “When I’m on stage, I feel the most like myself. I feel free, as if anything is possible. It’s the closest thing to magic I’ve ever felt.”
(Editor’s Note: PAW Patrol Live! will be in the New Jersey area as follows: New York City, March 22-25; Allentown, Pennsylvania, April 7-8; Trenton, New Jersey, April 17-18; Hershey, Pennsylvania, April 21-22; Atlantic City, New Jersey, April 28-29. PAW Patrol Live! ticket information is available at www.pawpatrollive.com/tickets.)
Lights, camera, action – PAW Patrol Live! (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
--Ends--
More Nick: Nickelodeon USA To Premiere New 44-Minute 'PAW Patrol' Special "The Mighty Pups" During Fall 2018; 'Abby Hatcher, Fuzzly Catcher' During Late 2018 - Early 2019!
Additional sources: Tallahassee Democrat, KIRO-TV.
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Kelsey Krull
The Great Pirate Adventure is PAW Patrol Live!'s second touring production, first taking the stage in the fall of 2017 and plans to tour the U.S. and Canada through the end of 2018. Based on Nickelodeon's number one animated television series, PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure, produced by Spin Master Entertainment, features the multitalented, heroic pups - including Chase (Brandon Delsid), Rubble (Jordan Elman), and Skye (Kelsey Krull), along with Ryder (Tony Ardolino) - on a mission to find the pirate treasure before Mayor Humdinger (Matt Lamb) does.
Krull has been with the show since it began touring in September 2017. Prior to joining PAW Patrol Live!, she had heard about the animated television show from her younger cousins, with the popularity of the show reaching many children in the two-to-six age group. "Each pup has their own individual talent which is great for the kids because every kid can identify with each pup," Krull says. Kids can see themselves within these characters, with the theatrical experience bringing the at-home television experience to the stage before their eyes. Now, they get to sing, dance, and play along with the pups as they save the day. "[They] go through the journey with that pup while they're in their seats."
Krull gets to bring a fan favorite, Skye, to life every day. Skye is the pilot pup, and the only female pup on the squad. "[Skye] gets to bring a different energy to the PAW Patrol - a female presence. She's pink which is great," Krull jokes. Young audience members dress up like her, and cheer her on as she's introduced. "It's awesome when you first come out onstage to hear all the kids screaming her name. It's awesome to be able to represent a character that means so much to so many people."
The cast of
The familiarity of these characters is at the heart of PAW Patrol Live!. Kids at home see the pups every day on the screen - with their families, when they wake up in the morning, during lunchtime. These characters are a constant presence, and Krull and her fellow cast members took as much care and did as much research for their portrayals as they would any theatrical or true-to-life role. "These children know these pups inside and out. They are their best friends, they see them every day on TV and you want to represent them in the most honest way possible," Krull explains. Preparation involved watching lots of PAW Patrol, and collaborating with Nickelodeon during the rehearsal process to get these pups just right. In addition, the actors had to work on morphing into their characters via their intricately constructed costumes.
On the television show, Skye often dons aviation goggles and wings when jetting off to the rescue. She swaps wings for a pink pirate hat and white puffy shirt in The Great Pirate Adventure as the pups head off on a treasure hunt. Krull says these unique costumes are made by hand, taking thousands of hours to craft in a reimagined style of traditional bunraku puppetry, making for a look that doesn't distract from the action happening onstage. The mouths and eyes move, the pups' ears wiggle - the brightly colored, fully functional four-legged costumes animate these characters in real life. "It's a really effective image and illusion for the children - and the adults, too - that we're there helping the pups come to life," Krull says. "We're one entity with our costumes with our pups."
In this way, PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure is on such a scale artistically as any Broadway production, only the performers get to bring this story to a great many locations while on tour. Krull, having worked on VStar Entertainment's Sesame Street's touring productions as well, says bringing the "gift of theatre" to so many children is the reward of it all. "These children are in such a developmental stage in their lives," she says. "To be exposed to PAW Patrol Live! and other children's shows -- it's a milestone for them. And it's awesome to think that I'm a part of that."
PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure will play the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY from March 22nd through March 25th. V.I.P. - Very Important Pup - packages are also available, which include premium seating, an V.I.P. after party with Ryder and two PAW Patrol characters, an exclusive PAW Patrol-themed cinch bag, unique photo ops, activities, and more.
PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure will also be stopping at the Tucker Civic Center in Tallahassee, Florida for two performances on Saturday, July 21 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
PAW Patrol Live! "Race to the Rescue" also continues its live tour, and will be performing four shows at McCaw Hall at the Seattle Center in Seattle, Washington this April:
Monday, April 2 at 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 3 at 10:00 a.m.
Tuesday, April 3 at 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 3 at 6:00 p.m.
For tickets to the nine MSG performances, future tour dates, and more information on the PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure, please visit https://www.pawpatrollive.com/.
X barks the spot in the new tour PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure! It's Pirate Day in Adventure Bay, and Mayor Goodway is getting ready for a big celebration! But first, Ryder and his team of pirate pups must rescue Cap'n Turbot from a mysterious cavern. When they do, they also discover a secret pirate treasure map! The PAW Patrol set out over land and sea to find the treasure for Mayor Goodway's celebration before Mayor Humdinger finds it first! The pups will need all paws on deck for this pirate adventure, including some help from the newest pup ... Tracker!
Following the success of its North American tour, PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure will set sail for the UK and Australia later this year.
Also, from The Jefferson Chronicle:
Homegrown in Jefferson, Township Grad is on Patrol
Get ready, people. Antonio “Tony” Ardolino is on patrol!
Yes, the Jefferson native and 2010 graduate of the township’s high school is living the dream of many a preschooler in the U.S. He will soon be part of the PAW Patrol as Ryder, the precocious kid on Nickelodeon’s successful animated program. Led by Ryder, the beloved pup patrol performs helpful missions in Adventure Bay by working as a team.
Tony Ardolino, JTHS Class of 2010. (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
Although animated himself in person, Ardolino will portray a genuine human Ryder in a live production of the popular Nick Jr. show when it takes to the road nationally. PAW Patrol Live! launches its New York-New Jersey metropolitan area tour this week at Madison Square Garden.
Tony Ardolino as Ryder in PAW Patrol Live! (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
But Ardolino is also fulfilling his own dreams. As a second grader living in Cozy Lake, the actor fondly remembers being inspired seeing the show Beauty and the Beast. “I loved it so much,” he says, adding that he wanted to be up on stage with the characters.
“I wanted to pursue a career in theater since that second-grade day,” Ardolino tells The Jefferson Chronicle. “The best part is that my mother and father never doubted me. They cheered me on every step of the way, and that helped me shoot for the stars.” The young actor took the advice of his parents and has landed among the stars.
The Ardolinos, proud parents and Tony as Ryder. (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
Moving to Los Angeles right after high school, Ardolino studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where he further honed his talent. “Even when I wasn’t on a film set or a national tour, I was still performing at Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland,” he notes, adding that he also performed in regional theater and opera houses around California.
“Since then, I’ve been performing all over the country, and have acted in both television and film,” he says. In addition, he tells The Chronicle, he has worked on countless commercials, including one with David Hasselhoff.
Following his California stint, Ardolino was based for two years with Universal Studios Singapore, where he had the opportunity to write and direct shows as well as travel and act throughout Asia.
Passion for Acting Rooted in the Township
But it was in his hometown of Jefferson that Ardolino became grounded in his love of acting, and where it became his passion.
“In elementary school, I was always in choir,” he says. “I remember the first time they announced who got the solo for the winter concert. It was like American Idol to me,” he quips. “When Mrs. Courtney picked me, I think she mispronounced my last name. She was like ‘Ard-…Ardo…Ardolono?’ and I stood up and said with excitement, Ardolino!”
Although he got the choir solo that year, there were no musicals until middle school – where, it might be said, Ardolino got that proverbial first big break, winning the title role of Aladdin in the Disney version of the musical. Even at a young age, he never got stage fright. “I was always excited to be on stage,” he remembers. “I was kind of a shy kid growing up. I used that time on stage to say, ‘Look at me.’”
The beginning of a career – the early days in Jefferson Township. (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
At Jefferson Township High School, Ardolino was involved with just about every performing arts type of activity – every level of choir, the music honor society, and the drama club.
“I also teamed up with Mrs. Latronica of child development,” he recalls, noting that she was one of his favorite teachers. Ardolino wrote an original script, made costumes, and directed teens in a show for tots. “Word spread around town fast of the cute children’s show and we were asked to bring it to Milton School and Stanlick School so those kids could see it too,” he adds.
“Like any kid who wants to be a performer, high school was a very interesting place,” Ardolino tells The Chronicle, with emphasis on the word “interesting.” He muses, “I used to make a performance out of every presentation, just to entertain the class.”
Tony Ardolino in a performance as a student at Jefferson Township High School. (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
Extracurricular Acting
While living in Jefferson, Ardolino also performed outside of school every chance he got. “While other kids had baseball practice, my mom and grandma used to drive me from theater to theater, just so I got to perform,” he recalls. Among them were The All Children’s Theater, Parsippany; The Growing Stage, Netcong; The Baker Ballroom Theater, Dover; and the Brundage Park Playhouse, Randolph. But Ardolino says that his favorite place to perform was the Pax Amicus Castle Theater, Budd Lake.
“It was run by the incredible Stan Barber,” he says. “Performing at Pax Amicus was a highlight growing up. I encourage any young performer to do a show there and be inspired by Stan and the rest of the amazing people,” he adds.
“Of course, there were some people who never really ‘understood’ me and my passion to perform. But my mother and father used to say, ‘Don’t worry – every kick is a boost.’ I’ve remembered that all my life,” he notes.
Even with the kicks, there were, and still are, so many boosts. The latest, of course, is the role of Ryder. “Getting cast as Ryder in Nickelodeon’s PAW Patrol Live! is something I will never forget,” says Ardolino, noting it was his first audition upon returning from Singapore.
Experience of a Lifetime
“There were so many people for the role and I waited a long time to be seen by the casting directors. They gave me a song to sing and a monologue for the show. I then had to show off my dancing skills and hope for the best,” he tells The Chronicle.
“I remember after my audition, I wanted the part so badly, and then I began to see PAW Patrol stuff everywhere,” he recalls. His mother suggested it was a positive sign. Ardolino was in Times Square in Manhattan, heading for an audition, when he received the call from VStar/Nickelodeon. “I literally froze and couldn’t believe it! They were offering me the lead role of Ryder.”
The actor says it has been an experience of a lifetime. “Not only do I get to be in a state-of-the-art show that performs in huge arenas and gorgeous theaters, but I also get to travel all over the United States and Canada,” he says enthusiastically. “Plus, I love getting to be Ryder. I mean, to be a part of the Nick Jr. legacy is one thing, but then to originate the role in this show is another level of awesomeness.”
He adds, “I always get goosebumps when I first appear on stage and hear all the kids say, ‘Look Mommy, it’s Ryder!’ It’s literally the most amazing feeling.” Ardolino says he also loves what Ryder stands for. “He shows kids to be smart, brave, and to always lend a helping hand. Ryder and his pups mean so much to so many kids, and I am so happy to bring him to life every day,” he says.
Stepping on that stage is the hardest thing to describe, says the actor. “My heart beats like crazy right before I go on stage. But as soon as I’m in the spotlight, I am the most calm I’ve ever been,” he adds. “When I’m on stage, I feel the most like myself. I feel free, as if anything is possible. It’s the closest thing to magic I’ve ever felt.”
(Editor’s Note: PAW Patrol Live! will be in the New Jersey area as follows: New York City, March 22-25; Allentown, Pennsylvania, April 7-8; Trenton, New Jersey, April 17-18; Hershey, Pennsylvania, April 21-22; Atlantic City, New Jersey, April 28-29. PAW Patrol Live! ticket information is available at www.pawpatrollive.com/tickets.)
Lights, camera, action – PAW Patrol Live! (Photo provided by Tony Ardolino)
--Ends--
More Nick: Nickelodeon USA To Premiere New 44-Minute 'PAW Patrol' Special "The Mighty Pups" During Fall 2018; 'Abby Hatcher, Fuzzly Catcher' During Late 2018 - Early 2019!
Additional sources: Tallahassee Democrat, KIRO-TV.
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Google+, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon Preschool, Nick Jr. and PAW Patrol News and Highlights!
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