"Bob the Builder" Hammers Out U.K. Anniversary Party for 2009

HIT Entertainment will mark "Bob the Builder's" 10th anniversary with a year-long campaign with DVD specials, events, new products, a follow-up album and music video.

The kick-off is today at the annual Brand Licensing Show, where attendees will preview the single "Big Fish Little Fish" from the forthcoming album, Bob the Builder - Never Mind the Breeze Blocks, set for its U.K. debut on Nov. 24.

A direct-to-DVD release, entitled "Bob the Builder - Race to the Finish," is also expected on Nov. 3. The special will also be viewed at 40 special screenings at VUE Cinemas throughout the U.K. Other DVD specials are also expected during the year of celebration, concluding with Bob's first CGI special, "The Legend of the Golden Hammer," in November 2009.

Bob's Spud's Big Mess live theater show will begin its 13-city tour across the U.S. Across Europe 40,000 people have attended 84 shows.

Also in 2009, "Bob the Builder" will get a new look as the TV series moves into CGI animation for the first time. The new format will air on CBeebies and Nick Jr. in the U.K. late 2009.

"Bob the Builder" debuted in the U.K. in 1999 and is now seen in 250 territories worldwide and translated into 45 different languages.