Dudamel & LA Phil Debut Animated Music Special

The Los Angeles Philharmonic, led by music director Gustavo Dudamel, is set to premiere a new animated special on PBS Kids titled "Carnival of the Animals." This half-hour program, slated for release on November 16th, will feature performances of Camille Saint-Saëns' renowned musical suite. The special is designed to introduce children between the ages of two and eight to the world of classical music.

Recorded at the Hollywood Bowl, the production unfolds in a vibrant town where animals prepare for a carnival. The narrative follows a young hero's quest when Big Lion's crown goes missing. Gustavo Dudamel's 15-year-old son, Martín, will provide a brief introduction, but the story will primarily be conveyed through animation and music, without dialogue.

In addition to the main special, five live-action digital shorts will be released. These shorts will feature musicians from the LA Philharmonic and the Youth Orchestra Los Angeles, offering insights into musical instruments and connecting them to the animals depicted in the special. The goal is to amplify music education and encourage curiosity and creativity in young viewers.