By Tina Newman and Lindsay Watson
In a world where environmental issues are increasingly urgent, the decision to focus on veganism wasn’t just a creative choice; it was a conscious commitment to promoting sustainability, raising awareness and inspiring positive change. The story of our show, Vivi and the Planet Protectors, began as a collective vision between us (creator Tina Newman and executive producer Lindsay Watson) evolving into a powerful movement with dedicated team.
The Importance of a Plant-Based Narrative
Our journey into the realm of Vivi and the Planet Protectors stems from a deep-rooted understanding of the critical need for environmental consciousness. As advocates for a sustainable future, we recognized the potential of storytelling to transcend boundaries and communicate complex issues in a compelling, child-friendly and accessible manner. The central theme of “Vivi and the Planet Protectors” revolves around environmental stewardship, vegan philosophy and the collective responsibility we all share in safeguarding our planet.
At its core Vivi and the Planet Protectors is a call to action, an invitation to re-evaluate our choices and to embrace a more compassionate and eco-friendly lifestyle.
Through the narrative of Vivi, a charismatic female protagonist leading a group of eco-warriors, we aim to instill a sense of empathy and responsibility in our audience, illustrating that even small actions can contribute to significant positive change. This narrative entertains and educates, creating a platform for meaningful discussions around sustainability and conservation.
The Creative Process
Recruiting the creatives for Vivi and the Planet Protectors has been a collaborative endeavor that combined artistic talent with a commitment to authenticity. The characters were designed to resonate with diverse audiences, emphasizing inclusivity and relatability. Vivi, with her infectious enthusiasm and unwavering dedication, serves as a role model embodying the spirit of positive change.
The stories will be based on the best-selling Vivi the Supervegan book series which has been selling at a rate of 50% year-on-year growth since 2019 and is now in over 15 countries.
The storylines are carefully woven to balance comedy with education, ensuring that the message remains impactful without being preachy. Each character’s journey reflects real-world environmental challenges, making the storylines both relevant and thought-provoking. The vibrant visuals and engaging narratives are tailored to captivate audiences of all ages, inviting them to become part of the global Planet Protectors community.
Some Challenges Along the Way
While our commitment to the show has been resolute, the journey has not been without its challenges. Adapting a creative project of this magnitude to various cultural contexts and overcoming potential misconceptions about veganism were initial hurdles. Navigating the complexities of environmental issues in a way that resonates with a broad audience requires striking the right balance between delivering a powerful message alongside a heartfelt chuckle. Additionally, securing funding to bring the vision to life requires persistent efforts and effective communication of our project’s potential impact. However, we have now raised $1 million in principle and are continuing discussions with influential business leaders, funders and investors to raise the other $1 million to cover the production of 52 x 3’ episodes, the beta app, marketing and distribution activities. Our EIS eligibility, global animation investment rebates and overall tax efficiency of IP is a plus.
Lessons Learned
Our journey with Vivi and the Planet Protectors has been quite a rich tapestry of learning experiences. One of the key lessons has been the importance of collaboration. The support and involvement of vegan global celebrities have added significant momentum to our cause, elevating the project’s reach and impact.
Flexibility has also been paramount. Adapting to feedback and remaining open to evolving narratives has allowed us to refine our approach continually. This flexibility, combined with a commitment to staying true to our ethics and principles, has been instrumental in overcoming obstacles and turning challenges into opportunities for growth.
Vivi and the Planet Protectors is more than just a creative endeavor for us; It’s a movement aimed at fostering a global community dedicated to positive environmental change. The journey thus far has reinforced our belief in the power of storytelling to inspire change and has positioned the project as a beacon of hope in the quest for a more sustainable future. As we continue to unfold this narrative, we remain committed to the principles that sparked the project: a love for the planet, the beings we share it with, a passion for storytelling and a belief in the transformative power of collective action.
To learn more, visit vivithesupervegan.co.uk
