Paul Runalls and Chris Atkinson are two delighted Saskatchewan creators of a 30-minute musical cartoon for children called “What to Take.” Hosted by “Mr. Treemendous” and accompanied by his musically talented animal friends, the cartoon reasons with children (and adults too) that it is okay to take some things! Such as taking time to encourage others, taking time to stay clean, taking time to learn, and taking time to be yourself.
To date, the movie has been officially selected in four film festivals:
2018 International Ecological Film Festival in Russia (http://ecofest-ugra.ru/)
2019 Los Angeles Cinefest (http://www.lacinefest.org/)
Being officially selected in a film festival signifies that a film has advanced to the next level of the film competition and that the piece has exceptional potential in its work. Further, within the Buddha Festival they were awarded by the Grand Jury the Best Direction for a film.
In addition to being officially selected to these four film festivals, the cartoon movie “What to Take” includes two tracks that made it as Finalists in the prestigious International Songwriting Competition (ISC) (https://www.songwritingcompetition.com/). The ISC is an annual song contest whose mission is to provide the opportunity for both aspiring and established songwriters to have their songs heard in a professional, international arena. Their competition is designed to nurture the musical talent of songwriters on all levels and promote excellence in the art of songwriting.
The creators of “What to Take” have been working together for over a decade in music and cartoons. Runalls is a familiar figure in the Saskatchewan music scene. As front man for Paul Runalls and the Prairie Sailor Band, Paul has been entertaining children and their parents for over thirty years, and was recognized in the Saskatchewan Legislature for his contributions to children’s entertainment. He has appeared on CBC’s Mr. Dressup television show and is an accomplished songwriter and recording artist. He performs in two Saskatchewan Celtic bands, Back of the Bus and The Residuals. Atkinson has been in the education field for almost 30 years, co-writing music (lyrics) with Runalls for over 10 years, and also producing music cartoons. His passions are family, sports, and music, with Chris participating and coaching volleyball, baseball, football, and curling, as well as playing guitar, trumpet, flute and piano.
Please join the creators, Mr. Treemendous, and his cartoon friends at the Saskatchewan Science Centre Theatre for their Saskatchewan premiere on Saturday June 30, 10:30am.
Cost: Those attending the 24 Hours of Science event on June 29/30 will receive free admission.
The movie screening is also included as part of your regular Science Centre entrance fee.
Saskatchewan libraries, recreational centres and parks/organizations hosting family film nights interested in screening this catchy and thoughtful cartoon, please contact the creators via email at chatbooks@sasktel.net for more information.
