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Magical new drama series Jamillah and Aladdin begins on CBBC from 29th November
Jamillah and Aladdin is a magical new drama series filled with enchantment and adventure. Launching initially on CBBC from 29th November, the drama will be shown across both CBBC and CBeebies, transporting viewers of all ages, to an ancient world full of intrigue and mysterious encounters.
Jamillah, a modern-day girl, lives with her family in London; she is curious and brave and is always on the look- out for adventure. Her story begins when she discovers a dusty old lamp in her attic, makes a wish, and is startled by the appearance of a charismatic and fun-loving Genie. Genie transports Jamillah back in time to ancient Baghdad where she meets Aladdin.
Aladdin hates household chores (he has a lot of them) and, like Jamillah, dreams of having adventures. He has never met a girl like her before and is amazed, and occasionally horrified, by her actions. She is courageous and bold but he often has to use his charm and quick wit to extricate them both from difficult situations. And, of course they can call on Genie when things get really bad. Sadly, his magic skills are a little rusty so he tends to create as many problems as he tries to solve!
Their adventures lead them through winding back streets of Baghdad where they encounter snake charmers in shady courtyards, mysterious travellers in the bustling bazaar and even get to meet the princess in the sun-filled palace gardens. Lurking in shadowed alleyways are one or two baddies, but together with Genie they are a match for any trickster.
In the double opening episode Jamillah arrives in Baghdad for the first time, squashing Aladdin’s eggs in the process. In the confusion, Jamillah knocks the fruit from Mustafa the market trader's stall. Mustafa demands either money or more fruit but Aladdin has neither and is sent to jail. Jamillah and Genie must hatch a plan to try and get him out.
Leroy Osei-Bonsu, who plays the Genie, says: “I’m thrilled to be involved in such an exciting, modern, fun-packed and adventurous series, which all the family can enjoy!”
Anne Brogan, Executive Producer for Kindle Entertainment, says: "Jamillah is a wonderful heroine and a great role model for girls. She is feisty and bold, courageous and kind, and a perfect match for Aladdin. She believes she can do anything he can – though he often disagrees!"
Jamillah is played by Blossom Campbell, Aladdin by Wilson Radjou-Pujalte, Genie by Leroy Osei-Bonsu and Mustafa by Joe Vaz.
Jamillah and Aladdin has been commissioned by Kay Benbow, Controller of CBeebies and Cheryl Taylor, Controller of CBBC. Michael Towner is the Executive Producer for CBeebies and Sue Nott is the Executive Producer for CBBC. Anne Brogan is the Executive Producer for Kindle Entertainment. The series is produced by Emma Stuart, the lead director is Rebecca Rycroft and the Head Writer is Kathy Waugh. The series is produced in association with Mediamax and Toonz Entertainment and is distributed by Imira Entertainment. The series was filmed on location in South Africa and consists of 26 x 15 minute episodes, which will begin with a double bill on CBBC from Sunday 29th November 2015.