Senior Vice President of Distribution & Acquisitions at 9 Story Media Group Alix Wiseman to Deliver Industry Keynote at MAF
Skwigly
Manchester Animation Festival supported by Lenovo, today unveiled this year’s keynote speaker for its annual Animation Nation Forum which is taking place on Thursday 14th November at Bridgewater Hall as well as announcing the event programme for 2024. Running alongside Manchester Animation Festival, this dedicated event is the UK’s premiere destination for industry leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs to explore the cutting-edge conversations shaping the animation sector internationally.
The animation keynote is The Animation Nations Forum’s yearly opportunity to hear in depth from an industry leader. This year’s speech will be delivered by Alix Wiseman, Senior Vice President of Distribution and Acquisitions at 9 Story Media Group. With over 25 years of experience in the international media landscape, Alix Wiseman brings a wealth of insight and expertise to the ANF Keynote 2024. As Senior Vice President of Distribution & Acquisitions at 9 Story Media Group, Alix oversees global sales operations and sources third-party content, all while securing financing for the company’s new IPs. Alix’s career has spanned multiple continents and formats, and her keynote will offer unique insights into international distribution, content partnerships, and the ever-growing opportunities in animation today.
Alix Wiseman says: “It’s a real honour to speak at the Animation Nation Forum and to engage with the creative community on some of the pressing issues we face in the world of animation right now. I look forward to discussing both the challenges of financing productions in the current climate as well as the new opportunities we can explore as we navigate the changing landscape.”
This year, the Animation Nation Forum (ANF), will once again present a range of dedicated panels and opportunities to discuss animation in all its forms. The focus will be on opportunity in the face of constrictions that traditional media routes are facing. Rather than getting caught in a “Survive to 25” mindset, ANF invites the industry to look beyond the current challenges and imagine a future that lies ahead. ANF 2024 will spotlight the new pathways emerging through alternative distribution, fresh business models, and exciting publication opportunities. These discussions will reveal how the animation sector can not only weather the storm but also thrive by capitalising on its boundless creative and commercial potential. This is the time to reimagine what animation can achieve. Manchester Animation Festival is also pleased to announce that both MAF and the ANF have found a principal supporter in the form of Lenovo.
Lenovo said: “Manchester Animation Festival (MAF) is the UK’s preeminent animation event, celebrating the immense creative talent and technological advancements that make this incredible art form possible. By supporting MAF, Lenovo is proud to empower imagination and contribute to the growth of this vibrant industry”.
Steve Henderson, Director of Manchester Animation Festival: “We’re thrilled to have Lenovo join Manchester Animation Festival 2024 as our principal supporter. Their presence in the animation space aligns perfectly with our mission, and their backing is invaluable in helping us continue to champion the creative work that makes MAF the must attend event on the UK animation calendar.”
The Animation Nation Forum kicks off with a breakfast hosted by Kate O’Connor, Executive Chair on Animation UK, who will share a few brief words on why this day is crucial for the industry’s vitality and future growth, participants will then be able to head to In The Frame: New Opportunities in Animation which will aim to present practical solutions to some of the issues facing the animation industry today. This inspiring panel will explore how animation is finding homes on a diverse range of platforms, creating series for non-traditional outlets, developing content for fans with eclectic tastes, and embracing cutting-edge tech, demonstrating that opportunities are wide open. If you’re looking for exciting ways to grow your work and reach new audiences, this session will show you just how many doors are waiting to be opened hosted by Jo Redfern, with Jiela Esmat (8 Lions), Richard Chaney (Team Jay, Piranah Bar) and Jon Mason (Jollywise) on the panel.
Then Collaborating Across Continents: The Future of International Co-production will explore how international co-productions are shaping the animation industry. Experts will discuss the benefits and challenges of cross-border collaborations, including navigating cultural differences and leveraging global funding. With the opportunity to learn how these partnerships drive innovation and expand creative opportunities in an interconnected world.
Following this the State of the Animation Nation roundtable discussion will take place. This landmark session where industry leaders will paint a contemporary picture of the animation industry by answering a wide range of hard-hitting questions and reflect on the challenges and triumphs that the industry has been subject to and what may lay ahead. Joining this year’s panel will be Charlotte Bavasso (Nexus), Tanya J Scott (Indie Director), Kate O’Connor (Animation UK) and Sueann Rochester (Wild Child Animation).
New for 2024 is ANF Connect, which will run throughout the day and allows participants to book 15-minute meetings with top industry leaders across the day. The event will conclude with a drinks reception hosted by King Banana. Alongside the forum, the MAF Marketplace will showcase stands from leading companies and portfolio review opportunities for creatives wishing to gain insight and feedback from studios, offering further networking and business opportunities. ANF 2024 is a must-attend for professionals ready to shape the future of animation.
Manchester Animation Festival is presented with the support of Lenovo, Higher Education Partner University of Salford, Festival Partner HOME, Funder Visit Britain, Festival Patrons Adult Swim, BBC Children’s & Education, BBC Studios, Blue Zoo, Epic Games, Maxon, Moho, Netflix and Hotel Partner Maldron Hotels.
Manchester Animation Festival will be taking place across Manchester from the 10th – 14th November with both in-person and online sessions. Full programme information, further information and ticketing can be found at www.manchesteranimationfestival.co.uk