'The Triplets': the Catalan cartoon that became an international success

Barcelona (ACN).- More than 25 years ago, Catalan illustrator Roser Capdevila created 'The Triplets', a series of books based on the stories of three sisters. They were a hit in Catalonia before finding success worldwide, being published in France, China, Poland and Brazil, amongst others. Some years later, Capdevila agreed to a TV cartoon series based on the books, with television producers Cromosoma and Catalan public television (TV3). It was equally successful. The cartoons were then exported globally and children from all over the world had the chance to see the Triplets on TV as well as in books. A computer game and a full length feature film have also been created on the Triplets. Now, Roser Capdevila, has decided to donate all her paintings and illustrations to the Catalan Library.

In an interview with the CNA, the author and illustrator said that she wants her creations to stay in her place of birth, Catalonia. Capdevila, 72, said it was her 'desire' to see all her paintings and illustrations 'becoming part of the collection' of an organisation as reputable as the Catalan Library, based in Barcelona. 'I want the paintings to be kept only here, in Catalonia', she said, concerned that the work of some Catalan artists have recently been bought or transferred to organisations in Madrid. 'I know that anyone interested in checking my work; doing research about it; organising an exhibition or re-publishing one of the books, will have access to all material within 24 hours if it is kept in the Catalan Library', she said. The collection will be made up of more than 3.000 paintings, illustrations, engravings, lithographies, posters and short stories.

The author of 'The Triplets' explained that she didn't expect such success while creating the stories that were based on her three daughters in real life. 'The books were published in many countries, and were translated into many languages', she said. However, the big success came with the TV cartoons. 'The power of television is such that the cartoons surpassed the books' success', Capdevila explained. She thinks that 'the secret' of the Triplets' triumph was that children 'identify themselves' with the three sisters, Anna, Helena and Teresa. 'Children find the triplets very warm, and identify themselves with the girls, or just with one of them. Helena is always hungry, Anna is very romantic, Teresa is an adventurer…', she said.

'I have spoken to many children and they always have one sister to whom they especially relate. The sisters have been appreciated around the world, in China, even in Japan, where their difference to the predominant Manga cartoons, makes them stand out', Capdevila explained. Anna, Teresa and Helena, and their inseparable companion, the 'Bored Witch' have been, and probably will continue to be, one of the most innocent, exciting and enjoyable characters for children in Catalonia and all over the world.