Disney Europe Middle East & Africa have today (March 24) announced the start of production on brand new 10-episode teen-drama The Lodge, telling the story of 15-year-old Skye.
The cast of The Lodge / Credit: Disney
Returning to her childhood holiday lodge in Northern Ireland, Skye and a range of characters will be followed on a journey as they rock-climb, kayak, mountain bike and occasionally sing and dance their way around the country.
Inspired by popular Disney Channel Israel show North Star, The Lodge will be produced by award-winning Zodiak Kids Studios with head writer Lee Walters.
Raymond Lau produces and Steven Andrew steps in as executive producer, whilst Matt Bloom will direct the series.
British actor Sophie Simnett will play lead character Skye, with a cast also including Bethan Wright, Jade Alleyne, Jayden Revri, Joshua Sinclair-Evans, Luke Newton, Thomas Doherty and Ellie Taylor. Danish actress Clara Rugaard, Dutch actress Sarah Nauta and French actor Thomas Hudson all also star.
Trying to use her new location to make a fresh start following the death of her mother, Skye's new life will see some complications as she attempts to navigate the pressures of being a teen. Whether she's making friends or 'frenemies, getting involved in a love triangle or discovering a mystery set to shake her world, she's got a bumpy road ahead.
Nine original songs will feature in the show and aid the storytelling, with the central theme focusing on courage and staying truthful to who you are.
David Levine of Disney says: "We're excited about bringing The Lodge to our Disney Channel fans across the UK and EMEA. We have a truly talented cast with exceptional vocals putting their stamp on characters that kids will care about and storylines that will inspire. The series' universal storylines, themes and characters are certain to demonstrate great Disney storytelling and strike a chord with viewers."
Steven Andrew of Zodiak Kids Studios adds: "The Lodge is an ambitious and exciting project which we are thrilled to have the opportunity to be producing for Disney. It's a demanding show, requiring our young and talented cast to climb, kayak, mountain bike, whilst occasionally singing and dancing. The show charts that precious period of teen awakening, when all experiences are intense, treasured and forever memorable. Expect a warm, funny, emotional roller coaster of a show."
Shot in the Northern Irish town of Ballynahinch, the series will air on Disney Channel in 108 territories across Europe Middle East & Africa later this year.
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