The cast has been unveiled for new Manchester-based animated sitcom, Rafi the Wishing Wizard.
Launching on CBeebies early next year, it will feature 9-year-old Mollie Hutton in the title role, as her magical misadventures bring “chaos, comedy and charm” to everyday life.
The cast list includes her 2 dads, Jake voiced by Hollyoaks star Kieron Richardson and Dash voiced by Muzz Khan (Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl), plus her best friends Ruby voiced by 11 year-old Darcy Shaw and Finn, 10 year-old Jake Ademola.
The cast also includes Mina Anwar (The Thin Blue Line) as rebellious Aunty Tanuja, and Coronation Street’s Julie Hesmondhalgh and Jennie McAlpine as family friends Doris and Amy.
Oliver Wellington (Inspector Lynley) plays Park Keeper Al, Melissa Lowe (Reckless) voices Nia, and 11-year-old Karis Musongole (Wicked) stars as Khia.
There will be a number of guests stars across the series, such as Sue Perkins and Natalie Cassidy.
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The show has been created by Executive Producer Tom Cousins and directed by Sean McCormack.
“I can’t wait for audiences to meet Rafi and her family and see the stories we’ve been crafting for the past few years come to life on screen. Rafi is full of heart, humour and plenty of unexpected, slightly chaotic wishes, proudly set in a magical vision of Manchester!” said Cousins.
It was commissioned by BBC Children’s and Education for CBeebies, following its discovery through the Ignite animation initiative, a programme designed to spotlight homegrown creative talent.
“The series embodies our mission to create inspiring, entertaining and purposeful programming that reflects the lives of families,” added Beth Gardiner, Commissioning Editor for CBeebies.
“Animation has a unique power to connect with audiences of all ages and our commitment to supporting homegrown creativity goes from strength to strength. We can’t wait for the CBeebies audience to meet Rafi.”
