Poppy Cat Comes to CITV and ITV1

Joanna Page's Purr-Fect Role As The Voice Of Poppy Cat in New ITV1 and CITV Series

Gavin and Stacey star Joanna Page has taken on an animation role to win the hearts and minds of pre-schoolers across the UK, voicing Poppy Cat in the new CITV and ITV1 pre-school series.  Poppy Cat will air every Saturday and Sunday on both channels from 5th May at 7am.

Poppy Cat is based on the award-winning book series created by Lara Jones that has sold over 2.5 million copies worldwide since first being published in 2003.  The series features 26 eleven minute episodes involving stories of friendship and fantasy play as seen through the eyes of Poppy's owner, a little girl called Lara.  Each story is a celebration of adventure as Poppy Cat and her friends embark on fanciful journeys through fantastical lands.

Joanna Page says:

"... everybody loves Poppy Cat; the books have been such a success. So to actually play Poppy Cat is such an honour – I’m over the moon.  I love Poppy Cat because she's strong, she's determined, she's not scared of anything, she's very brave, she's lovely and kind, she looks after her friends and she doesn't back down from anything - and I think I have some of those qualities!  It's just really exciting to play a cat who is so strong and really up for it."

Freddy is almost three and loves Poppy Cat.  He  is totally engaged with the colourful characters and the gentle animation.  The adventures are very imaginative and he loves the way Poppy and her friends work together to sort things out.  The attention to detail makes it visually appealing and Freddy giggles at the funny antics of Poppy, Alma, Zuzu and the gang. The episodes are just the right length of time to hold a toddler's attention.  The focus on friendship, social and emotional themes are familiar and relevant to pre-schoolers who are encouraged to use their imaginations to solve problems and pursue their goals.

So be sure to tune in at weekend mornings from May 5th and share the joy of Poppy Cat with your little ones.  The first episode to air is "Tricky Cricket", a hot air ballooning adventure that sees Poppy and her friends trying to find a place where Zuzu's new cricket will like to sing! 

Visit poppycat.com for more information.

Poppy Cat Comes to Nick Jr

Nick Jr has just launched its newest animated show for pre-schoolers, featuring the extraordinary adventures of  Poppy Cat!  Showing every weekday at 10am, there are 26 ten minute episodes to delight our little ones!  The show revolves around Lara, a little girl who invents stories for her beloved cat Poppy.  Poppy Cat and her friends, an eclectic mix of animal pals, travel to magical destinations including the Trumpet Tree Forest and encounter other animals like the giant space squids!

Joanna Page, who won the nation's hearts in Gavin and Stacey voices the show's leading character, Poppy the lovable orange cat with a patchwork bandana.  Joanna says:

"... everybody loves Poppy Cat; the books have been such a success. So to actually play Poppy Cat is such an honour – I’m over the moon."  

The show is based on the beautiful picture books by Lara Jones, which have sold over 2.5 million worldwide.  Having their favourite book character brought to life will enthral Poppy Cat fans!

The show celebrates the fun and power of inventing and sharing stories.  Children are encouraged to use their imagination to solve problems and  friendship is a strong theme.  Poppy Cat is about Making Adventures Extraordinary!

We are enjoying watching Poppy Cat together. Lara's narration tells the story, which then springs to life.   2 year old Freddy is totally engaged by the colourful characters and the gentle animation.  The adventures are very imaginative and I love the way Poppy and her friends work together to sort things out.  The attention to detail makes it visually appealing and Freddy giggled at the funny antics of Poppy, Alma and the gang. The episodes are just the right length of time to hold a toddler's attention.  Kizzy is 8, but Poppy Cat was one of her favourites when she was younger when she had the Poppy Cat's Happy Day board book.  She is enjoying sharing her love of Poppy with her little brother.

Remember 10am weekdays for Poppy Cat!  Perfect to watch with your pre-schooler.

You can watch clips and download activity sheets at Nick Jr's website!