Manchester Magic: New CBeebies Show Casts Spell

A new CBeebies animated series, 'Rafi the Wishing Wizard,' has intentionally set its stories within the vibrant city of Manchester. The show centers on a seven-year-old girl who possesses the ability to make one wish daily, often leading to unexpected and magical consequences.

Mancunian landmarks, including Beetham Tower and the Aquatics Centre, are featured prominently, alongside the city's characteristic yellow trams. Executive producer Tom Cousins highlighted Manchester's personal significance and its ability to create a familiar world for UK audiences, while also aiming to present the city to a global stage through international sales.

Actors involved in the production, like Kieron Richardson and Muzz Khan, have expressed enthusiasm for the show's northern setting and its potential for regional representation. Khan, originally from Lancashire, specifically noted his desire to bring Northern visibility to the program. The series differentiates itself by openly displaying magical abilities within the community, rather than keeping them secret.

'Rafi the Wishing Wizard' features the protagonist and her friends navigating magical adventures alongside fantastical creatures. The unique premise of a family with openly celebrated magical abilities living within a community embraces a welcoming and inclusive narrative. The show's international distribution is expected to further highlight Manchester's iconic imagery to audiences worldwide.