Cartoon Network Studios Is Developing A Chicago-Set Musical Comedy Series ‘Battu’ With Matthew A. Cherry And Chaz Bottoms

Cartoon Network Studios announced today that it has begun development on the coming-of-age musical comedy series Battu from Academy Award-winning filmmaker Matthew A. Cherry (Hair Love) and director/animator/writer Chaz Bottoms (Dear John: Legendary Love Letters).

Here is what we know about the project right now:

Logline: From the French ballet term beat, Battu follows teenagers Otis and Jada, two gifted dancers in Chicago whose free-spirit and individuality often leave them as outsiders in the rigid world of mainstream dance. Together they find a home at a struggling hiplet (a style of dance combining hip-hop and ballet) studio and a family among the studio’s troupe of dancers and
instructors. The series will explore themes of courage, self-empowerment, inclusiveness, perseverance, and the power of friendship.

Where the idea comes from: The project is based on Bottoms’ animated short film Battu: An Animated Musical that is currently in production. Says Bottoms: “This project is my love letter to the city of Chicago, animation, and musicals.”

What’s unique about the project: The series will feature original music from the Chicago music scene. “Battu is unlike anything we have ever tried at the studio,” says Sam Register, president of Cartoon Network Studios. “This ambitious project brings together and celebrates two of our greatest storytelling mediums—animation and music. Matthew and Chaz are our perfect dance partners as we strive to tell authentic stories that both empower and entertain.”

Who’s behind it: Battu will be produced by Cartoon Network Studios. Sam Register, Matthew A. Cherry, Chaz Bottoms and Monica A. Young (Hair Love) serve as executive producers.