Damaschke has also been appointed President of Live Theatrical, a brand-new title for the company. In this new position Damaschke will oversee all live theatrical productions, beginning with Shrek the Musical, which is scheduled to arrive on Broadway in 2008. He will also oversee creative production and development for the studio; current titles include "Kung Fu Panda," "Monsters vs. Aliens," "How to Train Your Dragon" and "Madagascar 2."

Batter, according to a press release, will "oversee film production operations and animation technology, guiding the overall operation of the studio and its state-of-the-art animation tools and technology."

In a statement Jeffrey Katzenberg, CEO of DreamWorks Animation, said, "Having worked closely with both Bill and John for many years, I cannot think of a better pair to help lead the creative, artistic and operational direction of DreamWorks Animation. On behalf of the entire studio, I'm pleased to congratulate them on their well-deserved promotions."

Ann Daly, the chief operating officer of DreamWorks Animation, added, "I'm thrilled that these two talented individuals with very complimentary backgrounds and areas of expertise will co-lead our production efforts together. With our upcoming slate of films and the launch of our 3-D initiatives, we are very fortunate to have Bill and John to help lead us during this very exciting time at the Company. In addition, Bill's deep production experience coupled with his live theater experience makes him the ideal candidate to lead DreamWorks Animation's live theatrical productions."

DreamWorks Animation is devoted to developing and producing computer generated, or CG, animated feature films. Among the company's many titles are "Antz," "Shrek," "Shrek 2," "Shark Tale," "Madagascar," "Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit," "Over the Hedge," "Flushed Away," "Shrek the Third" and "Bee Movie."