A core group of seasoned Disney character animators have announced the formation of Project Firefly Animation Studios.  Based out of offices on the Universal Studios Florida back lot, Project Firefly will draw on the collective experience of over 50 years of artistic excellence and business savvy to produce quality, family friendly animated content, embracing both traditional 2D animation as well as cutting edge 3D technology.

Project Firefly has a slate of original projects in development for theatrical and video release, but is open to the opportunity to partner with other studios on their animated projects.  Some major animation producers are already taking notice.

“Even before Project Firefly was officially announced, we were approached by some significant individuals in the animation industry,” said Dominic Carola, president of Project Firefly.  “We are excited by the interest and look forward to building on those relationships.”

"Due to the financial benefits; outsourcing has become more prevalent in the animation industry,” states Glen Gagnon, co-founder and director of business development and finance for Project Firefly. “The combination of our solid depth chart of talented artists and the economical advantages of living in Florida makes Project Firefly Animation Studios an attractive outlet.”

Industry interest in Project Firefly is a direct result of the reputations of the talent it has to offer.  Four of the co-founders of Project Firefly, Paulo Alvarado, Gregg Azzopardi, Dominic Carola and John Webber, are all veteran animators each with over 10 years of animating experience. Glen Gagnon, also a co-founder, brings with him over 15 years of experience in both film and television production finance and strategic planning. The partners’ credits can be seen on such films as Brother Bear, Lilo and Stitch, Mulan, Tarzan, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Lion King, Pocahontas, Hercules, Treasure Planet and Fantasia Continued.

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Project Firefly is excited about what they have to offer. “This has been a dream of ours for a long time,” said Carola. “We’re grateful to Disney for the training and experience we had there.  They honed our gifts as animators and skilled artisans, which prepared us for this tremendous opportunity.  Now that the doors are officially closed at Walt Disney Feature Animation Florida, ours are open.”

Project Firefly is a full service animation studio providing 2D and 3D animation and artwork for theatrical and video releases, television series, commercials, interactive/internet media, children’s books and educational films.