Magic Hands

THERE WAS AN OLD WOMAN WHO SWALLOWED A FLY - a vibrant CBeebies programme that fuses SIGN LANGUAGE, spoken word, music and animation to bring classic poetry to life, delighting both deaf and hearing children. This episode of the series offers a fresh, inclusive entertainment experience, perfect for UK viewers seeking programme highlights at a glance in the television guide.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW There Was an Old Woman Who Swallowed a Fly is a fresh poetry programme designed for both deaf and hearing children. Produced for British TV, the series blends sign language interpretation, spoken‑word narration, original music and vibrant animation to bring classic nursery rhymes to life. Each half‑hour episode offers a multi‑sensory experience that celebrates language, rhythm and visual storytelling, making it a standout addition to any UK television guide. WHAT TO EXPECT Viewers will be treated to a seamless mix of visual and auditory elements. The opening sequence introduces the titular old woman in colourful animation, while a skilled BSL interpreter signs every line in perfect synchrony with a charismatic spoken‑word performer. Original compositions underscore each stanza, and subtle sound design highlights the humour and suspense of the cumulative tale. The format repeats across a series of episodes, each focusing on a different animal or object, allowing children to explore new vocabulary and narrative structure in an engaging, inclusive way. KEY FEATURES The programme’s unique selling points include its commitment to accessibility, high‑quality animation crafted by award‑winning UK studios, and a cast that features celebrated British poets, musicians and BSL artists. Production values are on par with prime‑time drama, yet the tone remains playful and educational. Each episode is written as a stand‑alone piece while contributing to a cohesive series, offering full details for teachers and parents who seek an in‑depth review of the educational content. The integration of sign language, music and poetry creates an entertainment experience rarely seen on British TV. WHY WATCH For discerning UK viewers, this series offers more than simple entertainment; it is a cultural bridge that respects the deaf community while captivating hearing audiences. The programme encourages language development, rhythm appreciation and visual literacy, making it an ideal resource for schools, families and community groups. Its inclusive approach aligns with the BBC’s public‑service remit, providing high‑calibre content that enriches the British TV landscape and invites repeated viewing. CBeebies PROGRAMMING CONTEXT There Was an Old Woman Who Swallowed a Fly will slot neatly into the CBeebies programming schedule alongside other flagship children’s series, educational documentaries and family drama. Positioned in the early evening slot, it complements the channel’s commitment to offering diverse, high‑quality entertainment for UK viewers of all ages. The series strengthens the CBeebies lineup by delivering a programme that is both a compelling episode of poetry and a benchmark for inclusive production, reinforcing the network’s reputation for innovative, audience‑focused content.