SOME OF THE biggest names in animation will be making their way to the Dingle peninsula later today as part of a major industry showcase.

The Animation Dingle festival will be taking place for the fourth year running and will see big names from the BBC, RTÉ, Amazon, Disney and Nickelodeon in attendance.

The event will give people the opportunity to interact with decision makers and pitch their ideas.

A number of panel events will also be held, where people will hear from experts in the industry.

These will include a talk from Oscar winner Patrick Osborne, who won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film for his 2014 film Feast.

Also in attendance will be Christian de Vita who was involved with Fantastic Mr Fox, and Jackie Edwards and Lucy Prkye from Children’s BBC.

Organisers of the festival have said that it will be of particular use for students of animation, and will feature speed pitching sessions and a variety of workshops over the two-days.

Among the big names in Irish animation attending the event are JAM Media, Salty Dog and Telegael.

Speaking about the festival, co-founder John Rice said:

We’re chuffed with the quality of the speakers, the large attendance and the quality of the screening and awards. Animation Dingle has really struck a chord with both students and industry at home and internationally.

Organisers estimated that animation pulls in around €100 million to the Irish economy each year, with around 85% of work carried out being done for overseas companies.

Tickets for the weekend have almost sold out and anyone who wishes to attend can check availability on the festival’s website here. 

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