Highly respected animation producers launch new podcast studio
Two top producers from the world of animation, Fred Seibert and Kevin Kolde, are opening a new podcast studio, The Bellport Theater On The Air.
The new studio will focus on developing, producing and releasing top quality content with an emphasis on supernatural thriller programming.
Joining Seibert and Kolde are longtime collaborators, business affairs executive Brian Gucciardo and studio production veteran Diane Kolde.
The first series, the paranormal thriller The Department of Midnight, will be released on 20 August. Created by best-selling author and comic book creator Warren Ellis, it will feature an all-star vocal cast including James Callis, Alicia Witt, and Carla Gugino.
A blend of science fiction, folklore, and horror make up this dramatic six-part scripted mystery. In addition to the launch of The Department of Midnight, the studio is in active development on three additional series that will be unveiled in the coming months.
While the podcast space and audio-first studios have experienced some challenges of late, Seibert – who initially started his career in radio – and Kolde believe there is a significant opportunity to break through with compelling scripted content created by both established and upcoming talent.
“I’m no stranger to taking on challenges that face the entertainment industry. But with the launch of The Bellport Theater On The Air, it will allow us to more easily tap into a space that has growth potential, not only benefitting the creators in making their stories more accessible, but also giving audiences what they crave – engaging new audio content,” said Seibert.
Kolde added: “I strongly believe that there are so many amazing storytellers that need to have their creativity and voices heard. With a roster of incredible projects in development at this time, we could not be more thrilled to take the leap into the audio space. We are looking forward to bringing to life new characters and worlds that listeners will enjoy.”
The Bellport Theater On The Air podcasts will each have a dedicated website as well as presence on all major podcast apps and platforms.