Disney in association with AnimationXpress & Indiantelevision announces 'PITCHKIAOW!'

The Disney network of channels is calling for new show ideas as part of a first-of-its-kind nationwide pitch that seeks to promote new creative talent in the television business. The event is being organized by Disney network of channels in partnership with leading online portals animationxpress.com & indiantelevision.com. Under this association AnimationXpress will be promoting this initiative to the animation ecosystem while Indiantelevision would be shouldering the live action pitches.

The pitch event, called 'PITCHKIAOW!' will be held on March 11, 2010 in Mumbai at IMAX, Wadala. Anyone who has an original idea for a kid's TV show that fits with the brand promise of the network's three channels will be invited to the online screening process to participate at 'PITCHKIAOW'.

The winner of the pitch will win a grant of Rupees 5 lacs to develop their idea into a production bible with the ultimate aim of creating a series that could exclusively air on Disney Channel, Disney XD or Hungama TV. There are two development grants to be won, one for an animation concept and the other for a live action idea. The closing date for registering to enter this event is March 5, 2010.

Commenting on this initiative Natasha Malhotra, Vice President and General Manager, Walt Disney Television International India said, "Creativity and originality are important strategic pillars of Disney's content strategy. This initiative is a step towards encouraging and inspiring new talent in India to showcase their creativity, original ideas and give them a strong a platform to bring it all alive. Our channels together have witnessed great loyalty from viewers already and we look forward to some really good content ideas that will further strengthen the viewer's affinity with our network".

Commenting on the same AnimationXpress.com CEO Co Founder & Managing Editor, Anand Gurnani said, "It is an honor for AnimationXpress.com to work as a media and communication partner for Pitchkiaow! As the nucleus of the Indian animation industry AnimationXpress has always been focused on serving as the showcase and voice of the ecosystem. We will strive to take the message of Disney's Pitchkiaow! Initiative to each and every creative mind in the Indian animation ecosystem."

This is the first time that the Disney network is providing a platform for students, freelancers, production houses, or anyone who is interested in entertaining the audience with quality and relevant content. Interested applicants can showcase their creativity in line with the brand values of Disney network's three channels in any genres of their choice either live action or animation and in any format -- long form, short form, fiction or non-fiction. The entries will be judged on uniqueness and originality of the concept.

"The Disney network is committed to promoting Indian stories and local talent. We are proud of this step and are certain that PITCHKIAOW! will be the nurturing ground for good talent and content ideas in line with Disney's storytelling values of fun, optimism, decency, community, quality and innovation." adds Natasha.

Interested participants are required to register online at www.disney.in/PITCHKIAOW for participation. All terms and conditions regarding the pitch process, evaluation basis of selection, final winners and rights ownership are listed on the website. All valid and selected entries contesting for the winning spots will be required to make a five minute presentation of their idea to a panel of senior Disney executives on March 11, 2010 subject to submission and acceptance of requisite forms and releases.