Studio veteran will executive produce, direct, develop and supervise new animated projects.
It turns out all that glitters does turn to gold, at least for Walt Dohrn. DreamWorks Animation has just announced the studio has signed a multi-year deal with the director of the recently released Trolls World Tour and co-director of Trolls, which grossed more than $346M globally. The announcement was made by Margie Cohn, President, DreamWorks Animation.
A DreamWorks story development and voice acting veteran, Dohrn will have an overall first look exclusive deal for original animated projects at the studio along with executive producing, directing, development and supervisory duties on various projects.
“For over ten years, Walt has been a key part of the DreamWorks family,” Cohn said. “His singular vision and sensibility is a part of our DNA and we’re happy to have his creative energy dedicated to both creating future DreamWorks franchises and mentoring the next generation of talent”.
"DreamWorks has been my home for many years and I have such a tremendous amount of respect for all the artists who day-in and day-out continue to push creative boundaries in storytelling," Dohrn said. "I am looking forward to sharing details about my next project and continuing my collaboration at the studio with Margie."
Prior to his work on the Trolls films, Dohrn served as head of story on Peabody and Sherman and Shrek Forever After. He’s also lent his voice to various characters in a number of DreamWorks Animation films, most recently as King Peppy in Trolls World Tour and Cloud Guy in Trolls. In Shrek Forever After, he made his debut as a voice performer in a leading role, bringing to life the conniving villain Rumpelstiltskin.
Dohrn also contributed to the story of Rise of the Guardians, Shrek the Third, Madagascar, Shark Tale and Shrek 2. In addition, Dohrn wrote the lyrics for the songs “Final Showdown” (Shrek the Third) and “Fairy Godmother Song” (Shrek 2).
Prior to joining DreamWorks Animation, he worked as a storyboard artist and writer. His credits include the critically-acclaimed audience favorites SpongeBob Squarepants and Dexter’s Laboratory.
Dohrn is repped by Andrew Cannava (UTA) and Todd Stern, Esq.
Source: DreamWorks Animation
Dan Sarto is Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Animation World Network.
