HIT Entertainment has signed Arc Productions to be the new animation studio for the CG-animated television program, "Thomas & Friends." This deal marks the first global television series for the studio, following a series of theatrical releases including Gnomeo and Juliet.

Toronto-based Arc will provide animation for all 11-minute episodes of the upcoming seventeenth series, as well as a one-hour Thomas & Friends feature-length special. The episodes will begin broadcasting fall 2013.

“We are proud to be entrusted with the stellar assignment of animating the highly regarded and much loved Thomas & Friends TV series,” says Jeff Young, chief operating officer, Arc Productions. “There are successful brands, and a handful grow to be franchises.  Then you have those precious few that rise to iconic stature.  Thomas & Friends is certainly one of those very rare successes and we’re truly excited to perpetuate its legacy under our creative stewardship.”

“Having been impressed with their top-rated technical and artistic abilities, we look forward to Arc bringing their animation vision to the world of Thomas & Friends," says Karen Barnes, executive vice president, production and development, HIT Entertainment. "We believe Arc will expertly bring to life all the thrills and adventure of the Island of Sodor for future generations of children around the world."