Word from Nickolodeon today that they're going to be unleashing a new series on America this summer: The JumpArounds. What is the show? Well, it's a "new, original live-action comedy series that teaches preschoolers about music appreciation and how to express their feelings and emotions through movement, song and instrumental music." It focuses on best friends in a band (The JumpArounds) who attend music school together -- Marina (Shayna Rose), Kiki (Yvette Gonzalez-Nacer), Twist (Jon Beavers) and... wait for it... Shout (Thomas Hobson).
What it really is Preschool Musical, which is the title I so totally would have used based on the Viacom press release until I read Variety's article on the show, in which show co-creator and co-executive producer Nadine van der Velde used the phrase herself.
But I've seen a couple of the videos set to start airing on Nickelodeon and Noggin/Nick Jr. tomorrow -- "Go Go A Go Go" and "Great Day" -- and it's completely High School Musical down to the pop tunes which are harmless enough but certainly won't win any awards. But with its day-glo costume and sets and smiling stars, I guarantee you that your preschoolers run the risk of becoming addicted to the show. So I hope you like it.
How about JumpAround's Big Music Show for an alternative title -- is that taken? (It does make you wonder if this spells the end for Jack's Big Music Show -- it seems like one show about music is more than enough for any network.)
