The Belly Button Buddies began to develop as a concept when Nicole Haddock, Saskatchewan writer and performer, was challenged by her mother to write a poem for a painting done by Canadian fine artist, Denyse Klette.

 

Denyse had used the painting as the focus of a card she was sending to invite people to her first Belly Button Buddies art show. The painting is now called “The Warble” because that was the title of the first Belly Button Buddies poem. Nicole wrote the poem in August of 2000. The next day she wrote “Buttons”, which became the signature poem for the series, and Denyse created a magical painting to match.

 

Three days before the art show was to open, Nicole went to the gallery to read Denyse the poems. Nicole decided to perform her words rather than just read them, and gallery patrons gathered around. The concept of mixing poetry, paintings, and performance emerged. It was decided that Nicole would perform her poetry three days later at Denyse´s art show. Since that first gallery performance, the Belly Button Buddy has performed in schools, libraries, art galleries, theatres, at conventions, and on television and DVD.

 

The venture has blossomed and the Belly Button Buddies can be enjoyed in many different mediums, including books with audio CDs, a music CD, posters, collectable cards, pewter jewellery, videos, clothing, and even classroom resources.

 

The BBB team is proud to be made in Saskatchewan and has worked with dozens of local and provincial businesses. In November of 2007, Trek 2000 Corporation, representing the Belly Button Buddies™, signed an agreement with Yarto Entertainment of London. Yarto will manage the international product licensing and DVD/TV programme sales. See www.yarto.com

 

In January of 2008, the Buddies team began production of a new DVD and TV offering, Unplug Your Children. Aimed at young children and their parents/caregivers, the DVD will inspire families to return to everyday fun and creativity. It will hopefully motivate children to take what they see around them and invent imaginative ways of using what they find. This is one way for children to supplement their technological world.

 

The Yarto Entertainment Connection:

 

Yarto Entertainment was searching for a family brand that could resonate with all age groups. The criteria called for one brand that would deliver an entertainment format for young children and their parents, greetings and gift products for all demographics, and international licensing potential for a wide range of categories.

 

TV Producer Mike Prince (Jellabies and The Wheels on the Bus) and partner in Yarto Entertainment, was introduced to the Belly Button Buddies™ in Western Canada. Mike loved Denyse Klette´s art work, Nicole Haddock´s poetry, and the way Nicole, Denyse, and their Trek 2000 Corporation partners were growing the brand. He loved the combination of paintings, poetry, performances, and products.

 

For more information visit www.Yarto.com www.trek2000corporation.com or check back at this site.