The Sharjah Animation Conference (SAC) is set to make waves as it debuts in the cultural hub of Sharjah from the 3rd-5th of May at the Sharjah Expo Centre. Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), SAC will bring together a dynamic consortium of award-winning animation producers and notable publishers from around the globe for a series of closed-door meetings.

The exclusive meetings will tackle a range of pertinent topics and are designed to educate publishers on the world of selling rights for books and illustrated works to animation production houses, including intellectual property (IP), production and distribution rights, the evaluation of potential deals, and the negotiation of licence terms. Attendees will be able to tap into the wealth of knowledge and resources on offer, to cultivate successful collaborations and partnerships with animation producers. They will also be able to promote their books and titles to newer and greater heights.

The conference has curated a stellar lineup of international producers who have made notable achievements throughout their careers and will give publishers unique insight into expanding their products to new markets and formats.

SAC exemplifies SBA’s objectives that seek to boost creative industries

Commenting on the upcoming conference, Khoula Al Mujaini, the Executive Director of SAC, said: “SBA is organising this first-of-its-kind conference and spearheading a pioneering effort in the region, in line with the objectives to seek to support publishers as well as further enhance their relations with animation industry leaders and producers worldwide. We aim to propel innovation and creativity in this sector, promote positive change in visual content production and elevate this creative industry to new and exciting levels.The event exemplifies the vision of Sharjah and SBA to elevate the children’s book illustration sector and animation production in the UAE and the Arab world.”

Frank Falcone, President and Executive Creative Director of Guru Studio

Frank Falcone, the President and Executive Creative Director of Guru Studio, which produced PAW Patrol, Justin Time and Ever After High, has over 25 years of experience in the animation industry. Other than techniques in “world-building” and story development, he will also offer valuable insights on the business aspects of managing intellectual property, including securing funding, negotiating distribution deals, and expanding the franchise across various platforms.

Pascal Charrue, CEO of Fortiche

Fortiche CEO Pascal Charrue, the recipient of 4 Emmys and 9 Annies, will offer an exclusive look into his company’s successes, highlighting their contributions to partnerships with major gaming companies like Ubisoft, Carbine Studios, and Riot Games. In addition, Charrue will provide publishers with valuable knowledge and an inspiring vision for the future of the combined efforts of publishing and animation.

Oli Hyatt, Founder and MD of Blue Zoo

Blue Zoo’s Founder and MD Oli Hyatt, a recipient of the prestigious BAFTA award, will be presenting his latest projects and sharing his expertise in the animation industry, offering an exclusive opportunity to learn from his vast experience, delving into the creative processes involved in developing a successful TV series.

Eduardo Garagorri, Director of Business Development and Revenue Generation at Zinkia

Eduardo Garagorri brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role at Zinkia Entertainment, a Spanish production company located in Madrid, Spain, where he oversees the business development and revenue generation teams giving publishers valuable insight into branding and merchandise.

Giorgio Scorza, Co-Founder and CEO of Movimenti Production

Giorgio Scorza, a celebrated author, director, and creative director and the co-founder and CEO of Movimenti Production, is set to discuss the untapped potential of animation with publishers at the meetings. Scorza, who has won numerous international awards for his outstanding work, will shed light on the transformative power of animation and its ability to reach beyond the realm of children’s entertainment.

Andrea Bozzetto, Co-founder of Studio Bozzetto

During these exclusive meetings, Andrea Bozzetto, Co-founder of Studio Bozzetto, will guide attendees through the art of storyboarding for animation production. As someone who has produced numerous commercials, educational movies and shorts for the studio and will give publishers a window into this exciting world.

For more information about the Sharjah Animation Conference you can visit the website: https://www.sharjahanimation.com/