Coolabi secures global licensing rights for Giraffes Can’t Dance

Coolabi Licensing has secured the global licensing rights for the much-loved classic children’s picture book Giraffes Can’t Dance (Orchard Books).

Written by Giles Andreae and illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees, Giraffes Can’t Dance celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Published by Hachette Children's Books imprint Orchard Books, it has been translated into 34 languages, selling over 10 million copies worldwide. 

Coolabi Licensing plans to build an extensive licensing portfolio across core categories, driven by apparel, games and puzzles.

Allison Watkins, director of consumer products and TV distribution at Coolabi Group said: "Giraffes Can’t Dance is such a beloved book all over the world and remains one of the best-selling picture books of the last 20 years. I am delighted that Coolabi Licensing have the opportunity to extend this wonderful book in to merchandise for the very first time. The beautiful colour palette and wonderful characters created by Giles and Guy will work across all product to delight boys and girls across the world."

Karen Lawler, head of licensed content at Hachettte Children’s Group added: “There is a reason Giraffes Can’t Dance has been a perennial bestseller for 20 years. Giles Andreae’s text is a fun, funny celebration of acceptance, with gorgeous, jubilant illustrations from Guy Parker-Rees. Those same elements are sure to make its merchandise a huge hit. Coolabi are a brilliant partner and we can’t wait to see Giraffes Can’t Dance products on the shelf!”

The news follows the recent announcement of the new Giraffes Can’t Dance stage adaptation for Christmas 2019. The Made at Curve production will run in the Curve Rose Theatre in Leicester from 9th to 29th Dec this year and will be produced in association with Hachette Children’s Group and Coolabi Group.