As the subtitle suggests, Johnny and the Sprites: Meet the Sprites is an introductory lesson to the world of the Sprites, which just happens to be linked to Johnny's backyard. Each Sprite has their own distinct personality; there's Basil, who is the resident "geek" of the group; Ginger, the tomboy; Lily, the Latina, and Root, who is the baby of the group. Some episodes even feature a visit from Sage, who is the oldest and wisest of the Sprites. The dynamic created between Johnny and his friends is great and reminiscent of Fraggle Rock. Though most of the action takes place in Johnny's backyard rather than the Sprite's home world, I've always liked the idea of another world waiting to be discovered just behind a bush in your backyard. At the very least, it helps to stimulate a kid's imagination - which is something that seems to go ignored when it comes to current children's entertainment.
Each episode tackles most of the typical issues that pop up in kid's shows. There are lessons like working together and accepting other people, as well as a few that are more about discovering new things. One of the better aspects of the show is that fun seems to come before anything else. Every show has some sort of life lesson attached, but Johnny and the Sprites has a great way of teaching the moral without becoming too preachy or talking down to kids while also presenting them in a fresh way.
Most of the time, the lessons are explained via the plot, though other times they are told through song. Music is what pulls the entire show together and is incredibly entertaining thanks to the show's music department, which is made up of a few well-known composers like Gary Alder (Avenue Q, Alter Boyz), Michael Patrick Walker (Alter Boyz) and Stephen Swartz (Wicked, Enchanted). Songs are also highlighted in the "Music Time" feature, which adds a karaoke-like overlay that allows kids to sing along.
Also included is a set of original shorts that served as the basis for the show.
Johnny and the Sprites: Meet the Sprites is a fun show that manages to hit all the right notes for kids. It is easy to understand, incredibly active and the music is top notch - so parents may just find themselves singing along with their kids.
