Case study

Kiri and Lou

15 April 2025

Stretchy Productions have set up their studio at Kōawa Studios to produce the feature film Kiri and Lou Rarararara!

HOW TO APPLY

In October 2024, Stretchy Productions set up their studio at Kōawa Studios to produce the feature film Kiri and Lou Rarararara! Building on our partnership with Aardman Academy, this stop-motion film tells the origin story of Kiri and Lou's friendship.

Animation Director Antony Elworthy, known for his work on Isle of Dogs, Pinocchio, and Coraline, leads a team of top animators. The film also features talents like writer/director Harry Sinclair and composer Don McGlashan.

"We’re thrilled for our animators to be housed at Kōawa Studios, in such a creative environment, enjoying goodwill and 'can do' from the Kōawa team and helping to inspire students." - Fiona Copland, Producer of Kiri and Lou.

Image of staff from Stretchy Productions with University of Canterbury's Executive Dean of Arts Kevin Watson, and Kōawa Studios Director, Sam Witters.

The partnership with Stretchy Productions provides unique opportunities for our students to observe parts of the animation production process. Students from UC’s Bachelor of Digital Screen with Honours programme will have the chance to attend guest lectures and workshops with world-class Kiri and Lou animators, allowing them to gain valuable industry insight.

There was also an opportunity for 2x internships through the end of 2025 to help support the feature film development schedule; students Li Holling and Brayedan Hales were successful in their applications and have so far had an amazing experience! “It’s been eye-opening to realise this is something I can actually pursue thanks to university support,” Hales says. “The tools and teaching at UC are already really strong, but being in a working studio takes it to the next level.”

"I’m only halfway through my second year, and already I’m getting to work in a high-quality studio". - University of Canterbury Digital Screen with Honours student and Kiri and Lou Intern, Li Holling.