CBeebies goes for Melody, Minibeast

UK digital kids net CBeebies has ordered a pair of new series, one themed around classical music and the other a wildlife series about tiny animals and insects.

Melody is a 20x7mins mixed media series co-commissioned by BBC Learning from Wish Films and LAAH Entertainment with support from the RNIB. It will attempt to introduce preschoolers to classical music through stories and animation, and a partially-sighted girl with a big imagination.

CBeebies’ Michael Towner and BBC Learning’s Katy Jones executive produce, with Wish’s Will Brenton series producing. The show launches later this year.

Minibeast Adventure – With Jess, meanwhile, is a 20x9mins series in which zoologist Jess French features different insects and minute animals that live near the home.

Kindle Entertainment is producing ahead of a 2014 debut, with the CBeebie’s Towner and Kindle’s Anne Brogan executive producing.

Kay Benbow, controller of CBeebies, said: “I’ve made no secret of the fact I’ve been looking for more female leads on the channel, so I’m delighted that we can announce such a strong line-up of new and established female talent and characters.

“Melody is a charming new series which I hope will inspire a love of music in our young audience, in Minibeast Adventure, new presenter Jess French will demonstrate that there are many extraordinary and beautiful creatures living right on our doorstep.