Hannah Waddingham, Ghosts, Gavin & Stacey stars join Julia Donaldson Christmas animation

Hannah Waddingham, Ghosts, Gavin & Stacey stars join Julia Donaldson Christmas animation

As a cinephile who has spent countless Christmases immersed in the magical world of animated specials, I must say that the upcoming BBC adaptation of Tiddler is one I eagerly anticipate. Having grown up with the enchanting tales of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, it’s heartening to see their work continue to captivate audiences, both young and old.


Every Christmas at the BBC, viewers can expect a tradition: for those seeking some lively, animated holiday entertainment, the duo of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are ready to provide it.

Given that Tabby McTat, based on a Donaldson and Scheffler picture book, was such a hit last year, it’s only natural that another adaptation would follow suit for this year’s celebrations.

Indeed, it’s been verified that the animated special for this year will be Tiddler, a touching tale about a small gray fish with a vivid imagination. He finds himself lost in the vast ocean, but is eventually rescued through his own storytelling abilities.

Additionally, along with the announcement of a fresh, hour-long animated special, there are also thrilling cast updates. It turns out that Hannah Waddingham, famously recognized from shows like Ted Lasso and Game of Thrones, has been chosen to lend her voice as the story’s narrator.

Hannah Waddingham, Ghosts, Gavin & Stacey stars join Julia Donaldson Christmas animation

Actress Lolly Adefope, known for her work on Ghosts, will additionally provide the voice for Miss Skate, while Jayde Adams (previously Ruby Speaking) takes on the roles of Plaice and other characters.

But that’s not all, as regular Donaldson and Scheffler adaptation cast member Rob Brydon (Gavin & Stacey) will also be voicing multiple roles of Fisherman, Whale, Starfish and Anchovy. 

In this production, you’ll hear the young talents of Reuben Kirby portraying the character Tiddler and Theo Fraser lending his voice to Johnny Dory as well.

As a former elementary school teacher with years of experience dealing with creative and mischievous students, I must say that the synopsis of the new animated special “Tiddler’s Tales” immediately caught my attention. The idea of a character like Tiddler, who constantly spins elaborate stories to explain his tardiness, is both entertaining and reminiscent of the imaginative tales spun by many students in my classroom. I can only imagine the adventures he concocts to keep his teacher and friend Johnny Dory guessing! As someone who has spent countless hours trying to decipher the truth behind my own students’ tall tales, I have a feeling that I will be able to relate to both Tiddler and his audience. This special is sure to bring back memories for anyone who has ever had a student like Tiddler in their life!

His tales range from jaunting on seahorses or circling a sunken vessel, to getting ensnared by an octopus!

In my experience, his tales are so captivating that they seem to sail effortlessly across the sea, carried by word-of-mouth. So, when I found myself lost, I had faith that these stories might guide me back home.

In my perspective, this movie embarks on a captivating undersea journey that explores the might of imagination and building self-assurance. It also delves into the art of being satisfied and at peace, even when you’re just a tiny fish in a vast sea.

As I took on the role of the narrator for this enchanting Christmas special produced by Magic Light Pictures, I couldn’t help but feel an immense sense of delight during each recording session.

“Tiddler is a story that brings out the storyteller in everyone, making it easier for kids to imagine what it’s like to be a tiny fish in a vast ocean, an experience we can all relate to in our daily lives.”

Over time, I’ve taken great pleasure in sharing Julia and Axel’s wonderful books with my child. It’s a delight now to adapt one of those stories into this enchanting animated adaptation.

Additionally, author Donaldson noted: “Tiddler is centered around storytelling and grand ideas – aspects that hold significant value for me as a creative writer.”

“This movie beautifully conveys the essence of the tale, and its outstanding ensemble breathes life into it. The child actors who play the central roles in this remake are exceptionally talented.”

Tiddler will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this Christmas.

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2024-08-01 23:09