OAK9 Entertainment is making waves on the global stage with its flagship animated franchise Stomp! Stomp! Rhinos!
The company recently secured a worldwide three-season distribution deal with independent entertainment leader Boat Rocker, setting the stage for global rollout across top broadcasters and platforms. Simultaneously, OAK9 is expanding its franchise strategy with the appointment of industry leaders Ann Buckingham and Maria Ancieta-Risher to head the consumer products division for Stomp! Stomp! Rhinos!, guiding the property across key licensing categories.
This marks a pivotal moment for the emerging studio, which is quickly establishing itself as a force in edutainment for preschoolers and families.
Global Reach Meets Emotional Resonance
Stomp! Stomp! Rhinos! is the first Lithuanian preschool animated series to secure international distribution, a milestone that not only elevates the franchise but also shines a spotlight on the creative strength of the region. Boat Rocker, known for standout properties like Dino Ranch and Daniel Spellbound, will distribute the series globally.
The show follows Rhino siblings Noah, Ela, and Ron as they navigate everyday emotional challenges like anger, sadness, and anxiety with age-appropriate lessons and lively storytelling designed to promote emotional wellness in Generation Alpha audiences. Combining playful adventure with psychological insight, the series is already attracting interest from educators, parents, and licensing partners.
Gia DeLaney, SVP, Global Sales, Kids & Family, Boat Rocker Studios, shared,
“Stomp! Stomp! Rhinos! is a natural fit for our portfolio, blending commercial appeal with meaningful storytelling that parents and children alike will cherish.”
Key Licensing Leadership
Additionally, OAK9 has tapped two of the most respected names in licensing, Ann Buckingham and Maria Ancieta-Risher, to lead the consumer products expansion. Their decades of experience across top studios, including The Walt Disney Company, NBCUniversal, DreamWorks, and 20th Century Fox, position them to build a best-in-class program for Stomp! Stomp! Rhinos!.
Buckingham most recently served as Global SVP of Consumer Products at Disney, where she oversaw the launch of blockbuster merchandise campaigns. Ancieta-Risher held multiple leadership roles at NBCUniversal and Disney, where she played a pivotal role in building fashion and infant licensing businesses, as well as relaunching the Disney Baby brand. Together, the duo will oversee licensing across publishing, toys & games, food & beverage, apparel, stationery, and location-based experiences.
“Ann and Maria’s expertise is unmatched,” said Mindaugas Jokubaitis, Producer, OAK9 Entertainment. “Their vision and track record in turning children’s properties into successful franchises will be vital as we expand Stomp! Stomp! Rhinos! into a multi-platform experience.”
Buckingham and Ancieta-Risher, who are also founding partners of The Licensing Insiders, a consultancy of senior brand-building experts, added in a joint statement: “Stomp! Stomp! Rhinos! stands out in today’s market by combining emotional intelligence with entertaining storytelling. We’re thrilled to help shape a licensing program that brings its message and characters into the daily lives of families around the world.”
A Franchise to Watch
With international distribution secured, a top-tier licensing team in place, and global interest building, Stomp! Stomp! Rhinos! is poised to become a flagship brand in the preschool entertainment landscape. The franchise’s mission, to empower children through happy, healthy and hopeful emotional learning, makes it a timely and compelling addition to the marketplace.
Fans can sign up for updates at stompstomprhinos.com, where new content, products, and experiences will be rolling out in the coming months.
