1stAveMachine has added Kate Hitchings as executive producer. She formerly served as EP for Electric Theatre Collective and, later its sister company, Friends Electric.
Versatile across all aspects of commercial live-action, VFX, and animation content, Hitchings has helped bring to life narratives for top-tier brands. She was an integral part to the success of Chromebook’s six-part animated series, The Adulthood, and campaigns such as “Swarm” for Lexus and “Mountain” for PlayStation. The latter–which garnered over 40 awards and nominations, including the coveted Cannes Lion Grand Prix–marked the very first time that any production outside of Weta Digital had tapped into crowd simulation software MASSIVE.
Hitchings said, “The partners at 1stAveMachine have built a global mixed-media company that’s truly forward-thinking, and, therefore, future-proof. Technology and media platforms are ever-changing and moving so quickly. It’s ingrained within the culture and leadership here to always look to what’s next and lead that charge. Exploration and experimentation are parts of the very fabric of this company.”
1stAveMachine partner and EP Sam Penfield said of Hitchings, “Her experience across live action and post, in addition to her appetite for innovative platforms and experimental processes, make our stellar producing roster even stronger. In our model, our producing talent are as important as our directorial roster in our pursuit to continue to take risks and push boundaries while maintaining the quality of our projects and responsibilities to our clients.”
Hitchings’ joining comes on the heels of the signings of directors Ron Brodie and Em Cole.