Dallas-based Lyrick Studios is adding a high-level development and acquisitions executive as part of a push to grow new kids properties outside of Barney and Wishbone, franchises for which the company is known. ‘We’ve earmarked several million for acquisitions and development for next year,’ says Tim Clott, CEO of Lyrick. ‘We’re bringing on writers, producers and directors to develop shows with us. Our strategy is not to wait for people to come to us, but to find talented individuals.’ According to Clott, some of the creative talent the studio is in discussions with come from outside the kids entertainment arena.

Lyrick’s first development project, tentatively called BJ and the Radical Rumblebutts, will be the first animated spin-off from Barney & Friends. The studio is co-producing the series with Toronto’s Portfolio Films, whose Groundling Marsh series is one of Lyrick’s most successful acquisitions to date. The partners are currently seeking a broadcast outlet before hiring an animation studio, although Clott indicated that Canadian studios are currently under consideration.

Former Lancit Media Entertainment executive Noel Resnick steps in as Lyrick’s first senior VP of development and acquisition. At Lancit, Resnick produced five Disney Channel premiere films, as well as numerous after-school specials for both ABC and CBS.