Disney Channel will add a new multi-cultural series about making things work, HANDY MANNY, to its Playhouse Disney, a learning-focused programming block for preschoolers. The 3D computer-animated show will premiere in early 2006.
Wilmer Valderamma, best known for his role as Fez on the THAT '70'S SHOW, stars as the voice of Latino hero Manny Garcia. Manny is a helpful, determined young man who uses his eclectic set of talking tools to repairing anything in the town that's not working. The main title theme song is performed by Grammy Award-winning recording artists Los Lobos for the series produced by Nelvana, Ltd.
All programming seen during Playhouse Disney daily block is designed to promote age-appropriate learning, nurture young children, stimulate their imaginations, reflect Disney-quality storytelling and values and encourage viewer participation.
Gary Marsh, evp, original programming and production, Disney Channel, said, "The storytelling in HANDY MANNY, immerses preschoolers in a bilingual world, one where the protagonist models conflict resolution and problem solving skills and it will fit beautifully into our mission to help kids imagine, learn and grow up well-rounded. Were pleased with the response the project has received from the creative community especially with the enthusiastic participation of Wilmer Valderamma and Los Lobos."
Manny's comedic escapades will highlight Spanish culture and language while Manny and his tools show young viewers how to best navigate everyday predicaments. The cultural consultant is Marcela Davison Aviles and Dr. Renee Cherow O'Leary is the curriculum advisor.
The series was created by Marilyn Sadler and Roger Bollen (of the Disney Channel Original Movie blockbuster ZENON trilogy). Acclaimed animation veteran Susan Blu provides voice direction.
At the top of each episode, Manny is called by a neighbor in need. Whether it's a clogged drain, damage from rain or a broken horn on the town's only train, Manny's up for the challenge. All he needs is his handy tools. They are Pat, the bumbling hammer; Turner, a grumpy screwdriver; Felipe, a very ambitious screwdriver; Dusty, the not-so-dainty hand saw; Stretch, the nearly perfect tape measure; Squeeze, a curious pair of pliers and Rusty, a fearful monkey wrench. United in their common mission, they each have a different way of doing things. Their quirky personality traits make reaching their goals a constant struggle.
Playhouse Disney airs daily (weekdays, 6:00 am-2:00 pm and weekends 6:00-10:30 am) on Disney Channel, which is available in more than 85 million U.S. homes. All programming and content for Playhouse Disney is informed by the Whole Child Curriculum developed by Dr. Cherow-OLeary. This philosophy of education is based on Howard Gardners work on Multiple Intelligences, which states that intelligence and learning is a much broader concept than just mastering ABCs and 123s. Playhouse Disney's preschool learning is designed to promote a childs development in social skills, early academics, thinking skills, self-expression, life skills and motor skills.
