'Gnomeo' shop Arc nabs 'Thomas' series

Arc Productions, the visual effects and animation studio behind "Gnomeo and Juliet," has signed on as animation studio for Hit Entertainment's CG-animated kid television series "Thomas & Friends," marking the toon shop's first global TV serial. "Thomas & Friends" currently airs in 185 markets, with 16 series produced for the brand so far. "We are proud to be entrusted with the stellar assignment of animating the highly regarded and much loved 'Thomas & Friends' TV series," said Arc COO Jeff Young. "There are successful brands, and a handful grow to be franchises. Then you have those precious few that rise to iconic stature." Toronto-based Arc will provide animation for all 11-minute episodes of the upcoming series, as well as a one-hour "Thomas & Friends" special feature. The new episodes are set to air Fall 2013. Contact Andrew Stewart at andrew.stewart@variety.com