Michael Hirsh to Share Secrets of Animation Empire at Annecy 2025: A Keynote You Won’t Want to Miss!
Get ready for a deep dive into the world of animation as Michael Hirsh, a true veteran of the kids’ animation industry, takes the stage as the Keynote Speaker at MIFA, the industry-focused arm of the prestigious Annecy International Animation Film Festival! On June 10, 2025, Hirsh will share his extraordinary 40-year journey in animation, offering insights into how he helped shape the world of children’s television and beyond.
Hirsh is a household name in the animation world, best known for co-founding Nelvana, the Canadian animation powerhouse that brought beloved classics like Babar, Franklin, and The Care Bears to life. But it’s not just about the shows—Hirsh’s work helped put Canada on the animation map, establishing it as a major global player in children’s entertainment. His keynote at MIFA will celebrate this legacy while also looking forward to the future of animation, streaming, and what’s next for non-U.S. creators in the ever-evolving digital space.
“I’ve attended the Annecy Festival since its inception,” said Hirsh. “To be the Keynote Speaker at this monumental 40th-anniversary event is a true honor. I’m excited to reflect on the past, share my experiences, and meet with both old and new friends in the industry.”
Hirsh’s keynote will not just be a personal history lesson; it will also chart the course of Canadian animation from its roots in the 1970s to its current global standing. The discussion, which will be moderated by Christian Davin, President of Cartoon, will explore Hirsh’s role in the creation and growth of Nelvana, his partnership with Studio Ellipse, and the broader impact these companies had on the international animation scene.
For anyone in the animation world, this is a must-attend event. Michael Hirsh will offer valuable insights into the evolution of the industry, the current challenges faced by creators, and what the future holds for streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+. Hirsh’s perspective on these topics will be especially interesting for non-U.S. players, who are finding new ways to navigate the global market in the age of digital content.
But that’s not all! On June 9, just before the keynote, Hirsh will also be signing copies of his debut memoir, Animation Nation: How We Built a Cartoon Empire, at the Bonlieu during the Palais des Festivals. For those looking to get an inside look into Hirsh’s personal journey—and the fascinating story of Nelvana—this is a golden opportunity to get a signed copy and ask him a few burning questions about his decades-long career in the animation industry.
Hirsh’s book isn’t just about the business side of animation. It’s a celebration of the creativity and perseverance required to build a global empire from scratch. Packed with humor, anecdotes, and hard-won wisdom, Animation Nation takes readers on a journey through the ups and downs of building Nelvana, starting with a chance meeting with George Lucas and turning it into a kids’ animation studio that has delighted children across the globe.
Hirsh’s story is one of passion and entrepreneurial spirit, proving that with a little bit of vision, determination, and creativity, you can build an empire that lasts. Whether you’re an animation enthusiast, a future studio mogul, or simply a fan of great storytelling, this book—and the Annecy keynote—are sure to be eye-opening experiences.
MIFA runs from June 10–13, 2025, and the Annecy Festival will take place from June 8–14, 2025. Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate the rich legacy of Canadian animation—and its exciting future—at this year’s festival. Find more information and tickets at the Annecy Festival’s website.
