Altrincham’s Factory studio is producing series three of Bafta-winning animation The Clangers, which will be broadcast on CBeebies next year as part of the show’s 50th anniversary.
The Clangers returned to the BBC in 2015, 46 years after its initial debut. The show, which is narrated by Michael Palin, follows a family of pink, mouse-like creatures who live on a little blue planet in outer space.
It is a co-production from international rights owner Coolabi Group, Smallfilms, CBeebies and BBC Studios. The new 26 x 11’ stop-motion series will take the total number of new episodes to 104 and will feature a special episode to celebrate the landmark year of 1969, paying homage to the original series’ moon landing episode.
Jeremy Banks, CEO Coolabi Group, said: “The Clangers is a wonderful family show that has an enduring magic and charm which can be enjoyed by both children and their parents.
“We are looking forward to marking this fiftieth anniversary with the announcement of the new series and special episodes that the talented team have worked so hard to create for this celebratory year.”
Jackie Edwards, Head of BBC Children’s Acquisitions & Independent Animation, added: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming new episodes of the Clangers to CBeebies in 2019.
“They show us the value of community and of being kind to one another, their positivity and optimism are always an inspiration for children and adults alike. Their message across fifty years remains relevant and pertinent.”
Meanwhile, Kay Benbow, the former Controller of CBeebies, has joined the show as Script Editor for the new series. She stepped down from the BBC at the end of last year.
Series three will once again be made at Factory’s studio in Altrincham (Scream Street, Newzoids) and Grammy-award winner John du Prez (Spamalot) will compose the score.
