Animation studio behind new preschool TV series based on globally bestselling books

A new animated television series for preschool audiences is underway, featuring a beloved literary character. Bristol-based A Productions is contributing animation to My Friend Maisy, a 26-episode show destined for Sky Kids and Now TV.

Bringing Maisy to Life

The series is based on the books created by Lucy Cousins, which have collectively sold over 46 million copies globally since the introduction of Maisy in Maisy Goes Swimming in 1990. The production is a collaboration between A Productions, London’s Karrot, BBC Studios Kids & Family Productions, and Trustbridge Entertainment.

A Unique Animation Style

Katherine McQueen, managing director of A Productions, described the project as “wonderful,” noting the show’s “joyful” nature and “colour, spirit and adventure.” The studio focused on replicating Cousins’ distinctive illustrative style, specifically aiming for a “real brushstroke effect” while maintaining the “warmth, charm and simplicity” of the original stories.

Did You Know? A Productions has been in business for 40 years, and this is the fourth time the studio has been named one of Broadcast’s Best Places to Work in TV.

This new iteration of Maisy marks the first time the character will speak, giggle, and sing. A Productions’ portfolio includes other notable children’s programming, such as JoJo and Gran Gran for CBeebies, animated specials for Sesame Street, and Pip and Posy Let’s Learn for Sky Kids.

Expert Insight: The success of adapting established children’s books into animated series often hinges on faithfully recreating the source material’s aesthetic and emotional core. A Productions’ emphasis on Cousins’ brushstroke style suggests a deliberate effort to preserve the familiar feel that has resonated with audiences for decades.

What’s Next?

If My Friend Maisy proves successful, a possible next step could be the development of additional seasons or spin-off content. The show’s performance on Sky Kids and Now TV may influence future collaborations between the production companies involved. It is also likely that the studio will continue to seek out projects that allow them to blend traditional animation techniques with contemporary storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What companies are involved in the production of My Friend Maisy?

A Productions, Karrot, BBC Studios Kids & Family Productions, and Trustbridge Entertainment are all involved in the production of the series.

How many episodes of My Friend Maisy are planned?

The series will consist of 26 episodes.

When did the Maisy books first appear?

Maisy was first introduced in Maisy Goes Swimming in 1990.

How do you think adapting a well-loved book series for television impacts its existing fanbase?