Featured MEdia
Supply Chains

Kilkenny Animated is set to return this autumn, showcasing an exceptional lineup of international animation talent and providing industry professionals and fans an intimate opportunity to engage with key figures in the field. Hosted by Cartoon Saloon, Lighthouse Studios, and Schweppe Curtis Nunn Events, the festival has built a strong reputation as a distinguished gathering for industry professionals globally. The event will take place from October 3 to 5, 2025, around Kilkenny City, with the main program occurring from October 4 to 5 at the Ormonde Hotel.

This year’s special guests include directors Maggie Kang and Chris Applehans of K-Pop Demon Hunters, Tuca & Bertie creator Lisa Hanawalt, and Academy Award-winner Brenda Chapman (Brave), along with Kevin Lima, who will celebrate the 30th anniversary of his debut feature, A Goofy Movie.

The festival will feature numerous program highlights, such as discussions led by Maggie Kang and Chris Applehans about creating Netflix’s groundbreaking hit K-Pop Demon Hunters, and Lisa Hanawalt in conversation with BAFTA-winner Gilly Fogg regarding her new animated Netflix special Long Story Short. Brenda Chapman will reflect on her pioneering career as the first woman to direct an animated feature from a major studio in a Q&A hosted by Nora Twomey, co-founder of Cartoon Saloon and an Oscar nominee. Additionally, Michael Rose and Martin Pope from Magic Light Pictures will discuss their two-decade-long series of beloved adaptations from The Gruffalo to The Snail & the Whale. Kevin Lima will present the Disney+ documentary Not Just A Goof, examining the ongoing affection for A Goofy Movie. The festival will also feature Chloé Farr and Adam Sillard discussing their short film Au Revoir Jerome with Tomm Moore from Cartoon Saloon.

In addition to the discussions, the festival will hold practical sessions spotlighting women first-time directors, funding strategies for artists, and ways to maintain independent practices beyond studio environments. Notable participants include Delphine Coudray, Colm Dowling, Giovanna Ferrari, Alan Holly, Clíodhna Lyons, and Paddy Lynch, who will explore various career trajectories in creative industries.

The Kilkenny Animated festival will also advance its Pathways to Animation initiative, aimed at offering secondary and third-level students insights into the industry. Workshops and public events will engage audiences, while the popular Art Market at Kyteler’s Inn (October 4–5) will feature local artistry. Throughout the festival weekend, visitors will have the opportunity to browse and purchase unique works from local artists and animators, with the beloved Art Market returning to Kyteler’s Inn, allowing attendees to take a piece of the festival experience home with them.

The festival is supported by Fáilte Ireland, Kilkenny County Council, and Coimisiún na Meán, with event sponsorship from Animation Ireland, Screen Ireland, Cultural and Creative Industries Skillnet, RTÉ, and TG4. Workshops are additionally backed by Brophy Gillespie and Gorilla Post Production.

Persons: Maggie Kang, Chris Applehans, Lisa Hanawalt, Brenda Chapman, Kevin Lima, Gilly Fogg, Michael Rose, Martin Pope, Tomm Moore, Chloé Farr, Adam Sillard, Nora Twomey, Delphine Coudray, Colm Dowling, Giovanna Ferrari, Alan Holly, Clíodhna Lyons, Paddy Lynch
Company Names: Cartoon Saloon, Lighthouse Studios, Schweppe Curtis Nunn Events, Netflix, Magic Light Pictures, Fáilte Ireland, Kilkenny County Council, Coimisiún na Meán, Animation Ireland, Screen Ireland, Cultural and Creative Industries Skillnet, RTÉ, TG4, Brophy Gillespie, Gorilla Post Production
Titles:K-Pop Demon Hunters, Tuca & Bertie, Brave, A Goofy Movie, Long Story Short, The Gruffalo, The Snail & the Whale, Not Just A Goof, Au Revoir Jerome

Disclaimer: This article has been auto-generated from a syndicated RSS feed and has not been edited by Vitrina staff. It is provided solely for informational purposes on a non-commercial basis.