Production has begun on the new series, which sees dynamic drag entertainers Fay Slift and Fluffy Soufflé foster a love of reading and encourage inclusivity, kindness and empathy through community, stories, songs and silliness
WildBrain Television is set to bring the sparkle to story time with the commissioning of The Fabulous Show with Fay and Fluffy, a new 26-episode series aimed at kids aged 3-6. Produced by Lopii Productions, the cabaret-style show is hosted by the dynamic drag duo Fay Slift (JP Kane) and Fluffy Soufflé (Kaleb Robertson) who – together with puppet friends and special guests, such as musicians Splash’N Boots and Kara Harun, and comedian Elvira Kurt – foster a love of reading and encourage kindness and empathy through community, story, song and silliness!
With some big wigs and glamorous outfits, Fay and Fluffy’s goal is to share the message of inclusivity, cheering on children to be proud of who they are and be kind to one another. Filmed before a live studio audience of preschoolers, parents and caregivers, each episode features a reading from a favorite picture book and lively discussions about themes such as celebrating uniqueness; sadness and loss; self-esteem and expression; making mistakes and moving forward; sharing; and much more.
Production commenced July 13 in Toronto on The Fabulous Show with Fay and Fluffy (26×11”), which is set to premiere on WildBrain Television’s Family Jr in early 2022. Lopii Production’s Rennata and Georgina Lopez are executive producers. The series is being distributed by Sinking Ship Entertainment and is being produced with the financial participation of the Shaw Rocket Fund.
Katie Wilson, VP, Channels and Curation at WildBrain Television, said: “This is such a positive and joyful series that focuses on the importance of inclusivity, kindness and community. Fay and Fluffy are standout entertainers with a passion for reading, who bring infectious fun to story time with songs and silliness along the way. Audiences at home and in the studio are in for a real treat.”
Kaleb Robertson, who plays Fluffy, said: “I’m beyond thrilled to bring this representation for LGBTQ2S+ families. The support of WildBrain and Lopii Productions to bring this project to light is immeasurable in terms of the impact it can have on children and families who don’t see themselves positively portrayed in the media. Most importantly, it’s going to be so much fun!”
JP Kane, who plays Fay, added: “I’m excited to work alongside WildBrain to share my love of literacy with a whole new audience. I’m passionate about creating something that children and their families can see themselves reflected in.”
Rennata and Georgina Lopez, Executive Producers and founders of Lopii Productions, said: “We can’t wait to create this adorable series with Family Jr.! Fay and Fluffy represent all that we love and stand for at Lopii Productions – being kind, celebrating and loving yourself and making sure everyone is included!”
Agnes Augustin, President & CEO, Shaw Rocket Fund, added: “It’s so important for young Canadian kids – and children worldwide – to have access to content that promotes and celebrates inclusivity, and we’re proud to support WildBrain and Lopii Productions as they create this positive and unique programming. We’re excited to be part of such a fun and engaging series for preschoolers.”
JP Kane (Fay) and Kaleb Robertson (Fluffy) are both experienced child educators and drag performers. By day, JP is an educator with the Toronto District School Board and Kaleb is currently an independent cultural producer and childcare provider. Based in Toronto, the pair have been hosting drag story times since 2016, including at some of Toronto’s biggest cultural institutions. Through their events, they aim to support families with LGBTQ2S+ parent(s) and gender variant children, while showcasing culturally diverse books and providing a supportive and inclusive environment focused on fun.
