The Shak
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Children's television |
| Founded | 2006 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia, Canada, Papua New Guinea |
| Products | Children's television programming |
The Shak was a children's television series from Australia that aired on the Nine Network. The program featured four presenters—Curio (Drew Jarvis), Nitro (Beau Walker), Picasso (Kendal Nagorcka), and Eco (Jacqueline Duncan)—who responded to audience inquiries, dares, and challenges through a blend of fun and informative content.<ref>Each host's name was chosen to reflect their unique personality traits and thematic focus. The audience interacted with the show through its dedicated website.<ref>
Production
The show was mainly shot within a studio set designed to resemble a spacious shed or "shak," adorned with various decorative items. The presenters, referred to as 'Shaksters,' made their entrances and exits using distinctive props. Filming also took place at popular locations on the Gold Coast, including Dreamworld.
In 2006, production moved to Sea World, before relocating in early 2007 to the WhiteWater World theme park. This change was integrated into the storyline when Curio caused an explosion, leading to the Shaksters' move.<ref>The original opening sequence was entirely animated but was updated in 2007 to combine live-action footage with animation.
Ending
The program wrapped up in mid-2008 to introduce its follow-up, The Shak at Home, which followed Curio, Nitro, and Picasso living together in a shared house. Picasso eventually left the series and was succeeded by a new character named Willow. This sequel concluded on 13 January 2010.
Series summaries
Series 1 (2006) aired every weekday at 4:00pm, taking over from Hot Source. It featured an animated introduction and starred Eco, Curio, Nitro, and Picasso. Although it initially struggled with ratings, it gradually built a consistent viewership.
Series 2 (early 2007) introduced more comedic elements and highlighted Drew Jarvis’s multiple alter egos, resulting in improved ratings and audience reception.
Series 3 was broadcast in late 2007.
Series 4 aired from January to March 2008.
Series 5 (2008) saw guest appearances including Bert Newton portraying Curio's grandfather, along with various athletes and dancers. The original presenting team returned for this series.
Series 6 was shown between November and December 2008.
Series 7 (early 2009) became the most successful season both in ratings and critical response, marking Eco’s final participation.
'Series 8 and onwards' transitioned into a half-hour scripted format centered around Picasso, Nitro, and Curio cohabiting in a multi-camera setup.
Canada
- TVOntario
Papua New Guinea
- EM TV