Sprout is adding the new, animated preschool series Poppy Cat on Monday, Nov. 7, at 7 p.m. ET during the season premiere of Sprout's signature 6-9 p.m. bedtime block, The Good Night Show. The U.S. exclusive is produced by Coolabi Productions.
Based on award-winning books by British illustrator and author Lara Jones, Poppy Cat is an adorable and curious feline who loves to explore with her colorful mix of animal friends -- and makes their adventures extraordinary. First published in 2003 in the U.K. (with over 2.5 million copies sold worldwide since then), Poppy Cat was specifically written, and now animated, for a preschool audience. Each adventure is told from the point of view of Lara, a young girl with a vivid imagination and exceptional storytelling ability who talks to her faithful cat, Poppy. They travel to destinations full of fantasy and magic for fun-filled adventures in pirate ships, hot air balloons and rocket rides.
"The Poppy Cat series has been a huge hit in the U.K. in both books and on television," Andrew Beecham, SVP of programming for Sprout, said in a release. "She is a character that I think kids will fall in love with. Poppy Cat has a great sense of adventure, fun, fairness and compassion, and we are thrilled to be bringing this new show to U.S. audiences."
In addition to all the songs, stories, games and bedtime activities shared by hosts Nina and Star that Sprout viewers have made a part of their nightly, winding-down bedtime routine, three new Good Night Show activity links will be introduced this season:
Star Talks to Kids: Star has a one-on-one with a preschooler who shares everything from the name of his or her favorite made-up superhero to what they like most about rainy days.
Sprout a Sandy Story: Nina and Star create a story pertaining to the night's theme. As the story unfolds, Nina illustrates it with the use of a sand art table illuminated by a light box.
Clean Up: Nina and Star model the importance of cleaning up after a long day of play, and sing a new "Clean Up" song as they straighten up and prepare for going to sleep.
Nina will also be sporting four new pairs of pajamas: a poll allowing viewers to vote on new designs received more than 700,000 votes, the network said.
