BBC Children’s and Education has announced that The Underglow, the final commission from the first round of its Ignite animation programme, has started production.
The Underglow is produced for the BBC by Gigglebug and A Productions with support from YLE. The Ignite initiative was designed to uncover, support and champion original, creator-driven animation that connects with audiences and stands the test of time.
Katherine McQueen, managing director of A Productions, said: “We are very excited that production has begun on The Underglow, a beautiful and imaginative show that invites preschoolers into a magical, quirky world of discovery and play. This creator driven project brings together an incredibly talented group of people, promising to deliver plenty of heart, humour and adventure.”
Selected from more than 1,000 pitches and following an extensive 18-month development period, The Underglow is one of three projects commissioned through the inaugural scheme.
Aimed at a preschool audience, The Underglow follows best friends Brewster and Riley, an adventurous, lightly comic double act, as they explore a magical world filled with curiosity, discovery and play. Set within a vibrant and inclusive community, the series celebrates connection and care, presenting a world where diverse characters support one another.
Anttu Harlin, executive producer and co-founder of Gigglebug said: “What I love about The Underglow is that it makes space for wonder. In a world where so much is explained, there’s real value in letting children sit with mystery and ask ‘what if?’. Creators Sam Morrison and Tanya Scott’s distinctly British pre-school style, combined with our Nordic sensibility of blending heart, humour and meaning, made this a natural creative match, and we’re proud to help nurture and bring that original vision to life.”
Patricia Hidalgo, director of BBC Children’s and Education, said: “In a media landscape that is increasingly complex for children to navigate, it is more important than ever that the BBC continues to create and deliver high-quality content for young audiences. Our Ignite programme has played a vital role in bringing fresh, original voices into UK animation and transforming these ideas into trusted content that truly resonates with children both in the UK and around the world.
“The Underglow is a fantastic example of that ambition, full of warmth, humour and imagination, and its move into production demonstrates the real impact of Ignite. Through Ignite 2, we remain committed to championing bold British storytelling and supporting the next generation of UK creators.”
The Underglow is produced for the BBC by Gigglebug and A Productions in partnership with YLE. To read the full announcement, click here.