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Hannah Waddingham to narrate BBC’s animated special ‘Tiddler’ this Christmas
A festive treat for families
This Christmas, the BBC is set to delight audiences with a new animated special, “Tiddler”, featuring the voice of Hannah Waddingham. Known for her standout role in “Ted Lasso,” Waddingham will lend her voice to this enchanting tale, bringing to life a beloved children’s book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
A magical collaboration
Produced by the Oscar-nominated Magic Light Pictures, “Tiddler” is based on the popular picture book of the same name. The story revolves around a small grey fish with a vivid imagination who finds himself lost in the vast ocean, only to be saved by his own storytelling prowess. The half-hour special promises to be a heartwarming adventure, perfect for the holiday season.
A star-studded voice cast
Joining Waddingham in this underwater escapade are Lolly Adefope (“Ghosts,” “Saltburn”) as Miss Skate, Jayde Adams (“Ruby Speaking,” “Alma’s Not Normal”) as Plaice, and Rob Brydon (“Gavin and Stacey,” “The Trip”) who will voice multiple characters including the Fisherman, Whale, Starfish, and Anchovy. Child actors Reuben Kirby and Theo Fraser will bring to life the characters of Tiddler and Johnny Dory, respectively.
The power of storytelling
The official synopsis of “Tiddler” reveals a charming narrative: “Every day, Tiddler tells a different story to his teacher and his friend Johnny Dory about why he’s late for school. His tales range from riding seahorses to swimming around shipwrecks and even being captured by a squid. These stories are so captivating that they spread through the ocean, and when Tiddler gets lost, they help him find his way home. The film is an underwater adventure about the power of imagination and finding confidence in oneself.”
A personal touch from Waddingham
Reflecting on her role, Waddingham shared her excitement: “Recording the narration for ‘Tiddler’ was a real joy. This story captures the essence of the storyteller in all of us and helps children understand what it’s like to be a small fish in a very big pond. I have loved reading Julia and Axel’s books to my daughter over the years, and it’s wonderful to bring one of them to life in this beautiful animation.”
A legacy of adaptations
“Tiddler” marks the 12th book by Donaldson and Scheffler to be adapted into an animated special by Magic Light Pictures for the BBC. Directed by Andy Martin and Alex Bain from a script by Michael Bohnenstingl, with Barney Goodland and Martin Pope producing, this special continues a tradition of bringing beloved children’s stories to the screen.
When and where to watch
“Tiddler” will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this Christmas, offering families a delightful viewing experience during the festive season.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Tiddler.
Reflections for cinema and TV enthusiasts
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, the announcement of ”Tiddler” is particularly exciting. The collaboration between the BBC and Magic Light Pictures has consistently produced high-quality adaptations that resonate with both children and adults. The choice of Hannah Waddingham as the narrator adds a layer of charm and warmth to the project, promising a memorable viewing experience.
The story of Tiddler is a testament to the power of imagination and storytelling, themes that are universally relatable. In a world where we often feel like small fish in a big ocean, Tiddler’s journey reminds us of the importance of creativity and self-belief. This special is not just for children; it’s a narrative that speaks to the child in all of us.
For those who appreciate the art of animation and storytelling, “Tiddler” is a must-watch. The combination of a stellar voice cast, a beloved story, and the magic of animation makes it a standout addition to this year’s Christmas lineup.
Additional context and insights
The adaptation of children’s books into animated specials is a trend that has gained significant traction in recent years. These adaptations offer a unique way to bring stories to life, engaging young audiences and fostering a love for reading and storytelling. The success of previous adaptations by Magic Light Pictures, such as “The Gruffalo” and “Room on the Broom,” sets high expectations for “Tiddler.”
Moreover, the involvement of talented actors like Hannah Waddingham and Rob Brydon ensures that the characters are brought to life with depth and personality. Their performances are likely to add an extra layer of enjoyment for viewers, making “Tiddler” a standout special this holiday season.
“Tiddler” is poised to be a delightful addition to the festive programming, offering a heartwarming story that celebrates the power of imagination and the joy of storytelling. Whether you’re a fan of animation, a lover of children’s literature, or simply looking for a charming holiday special, “Tiddler” is sure to captivate and inspire.
