Zodiak Kids, Zodiak Media Group’s children’s production and distribution arm, is delighted to announce that CBeebies has acquired 50 episodes of its new 11 minute spin-off version of the hit CBeebies series Waybuloo. CBeebies is the first broadcaster to take this new format ahead of its launch at MIPCOM Junior this weekend.

This Waybuloo format, which will launch at MIPCOM Junior, has been produced to feature a new narrative element. In each episode, cult UK narrator, Dave Lamb, (Come Dine with Me) narrates the story of the particular episode in an engaging and humorous way. Nigel Pickard, CEO MEAA, UK Kids and Family, Zodiak Media Group comments: “We are delighted that CBeebies, our core broadcast partner on Waybuloo, have been the first to sign up to our new episodes. This new version adds a whole extra dimension to the Waybuloo brand and will complement the existing episodes perfectly enhancing the family co-viewing experience.” Kay Benbow, Controller, CBeebies adds: “I am delighted that CBeebies is the first to acquire this clever and delightful extension of Waybuloo which is so popular with our audience.”

CBeebies will broadcast the new episodes of Waybuloo in 2012.

Waybuloo, a unique mix of animation and live action, is a highly innovative approach to pre-school programming focusing on children’s emotions. It transports children to Nara, a live-action world inhabited by adorable animated characters called Piplings who embody a range of emotions such as Love, Wisdom, Happiness and Harmony.

Waybuloo currently airs in 80 countries including Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Italy.

Waybuloo is produced by The Foundation, part of Zodiak Kids and Decode Entertainment for the BBC.

Zodiak Rights holds worldwide rights in all media for the property, with the exception of Canada where Decode Enterprises handles broadcast and home entertainment rights, and DHX Licensing represents consumer products rights. Both Decode Enterprises and DHX Licensing are subsidiaries of DHX Media.