Cartoonival

Cartoon Network superstars brought
to life on stage for a fun-filled fast paced
​theatrical experience for fans of all ages.
  • Cartoonival was Cartoon Network's first large scale ticketed theatrical event. Written and directed by John Rowe, the show featured a quirky all original story and a soundtrack of catchy original songs by John in collaboration with Stefan Nowak. It starred 14 larger than life cartoon characters … the Power Puff Girls, Bloo and the gang from Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends, Ami & Yumi from Hi Hi Puffy Ami Yumi, and Dexter, Boy Genius and his meddling sister Dee Dee from Dexter’s Laboratory, with special guest Monkey, Mojo Jojo.

  • After creating a series of successful licensed mall shows for the brand, John was commissioned by Cartoon Network to create its first large scale ticketed theatrical event. The brief was to incorporate four of the biggest and most popular CN original creations into one production. Taking inspiration from Cartoon Network’s up-tempo, colourful, chaotic and in-your-face style, John came up with Cartoonival! – a crazy carnival of wacky rides, crazy games and silly sideshows run by the Cartoon Network stars.

  • A large cast of character voice talent was auditioned and recorded in Sydney to create the soundtrack, and then a cast of talented Australian actors, singers and dancers came together to create the inaugural production. The show opened in Kuala Lumpur before embarking on a South East Asian tour, with additional productions mounted in United Arab Emirates and a licensed re-mount in Latin America.

  • The show featured large colourful set pieces (designed by Graeme Haddon) and giant character costumes. A fast -paced rock and pop inspired score (by John Rowe & Stefan Nowak), tied together by a story full of drama and unexpected turns, plus a big emphasis on unique audience interaction combined to create a manic and exciting rock concert musical.

In Print

Programs, branded goody bags and notepads - Cartoonival artwork was everywhere. Plus print media picked up the story of the show's arrival with enthusiasm.

Stage Design

Set designer Graham Haddon used oversized set pieces in bright colours all in a wacky cartoony style inspired by the Cartoon Network original animation styles.

In Their Words...

"The kids loved the interactive musical.... The front row turned into a playground and dance floor during every show, and made Cartoonival a fun, one-of-a-kind experience." 
​- Red Filo (Abu Dhabi Show Promoter)
"The show has all the compelling ingredients to engage and enthrall Cartoon Network's young fans."
​- Sashim Parmanand (Executive Director Cartoon Network Enterprises)
"A lavish and visually exciting production that will delight its legion of fans, both young and old."
​- Yvette Kang (Yvents Malaysia)

Music

Credits
  • Show Creator / Writer - JOHN ROWE
  • Show Direction - JOHN ROWE
  • Music Composition - STEFAN NOWAK & JOHN ROWE
  • Music Production - STEFAN NOWAK
  • Choreography - WILLIAM A. FORSYTHE
  • Set Design - GRAEME HADDON
"Creating for kids is a surprisingly grown up game. It takes a talented team with skill, passion and all the same creative energy as any Broadway musical."
​John Rowe