Abracadabra set to air July 2 on WV PBS

Watch out Big Bird. Tener cuidado Dora. New characters are arriving on West Virginia’s Public Broadcasting Station to great fanfare.

The show is called “Abracadabra” and, as you might expect, much of the action and excitement takes place inside a magic shop teeming with illusions and sleight of hand. The show is hosted by Magician Mike, aka Michael Adelman, D.O., D.P.M., J.D., the president of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM).

With friends Professor Science, Salty the Pirate and Daisy the Gardener, along with ventriloquist characters, Joey and Duk, Dr. Adelman employs magic, music, ventriloquism and gentle humor to demonstrate to children ages 4-10 how to make healthy lifestyle choices.

In the real world, smart choices are often threatened by temptation and it’s no different at the magic shop. Nastini, a character overly fond of sugary sweets, can often be found lurking around the shop trying to create mischief. Thankfully, a talented cast of local children’s actors are on-hand to set things right.

Residents of West Virginia are well aware of the state’s disturbing health statistics. The state ranks between first and third in the country for obesity, smoking, cancer deaths, cardiovascular disease, stroke, hypertension, heart disease and diabetes.

“In their medical practices, WVSOM’s graduates are working hard to serve the citizens of West Virginia and keep them in good health,” Dr. Adelman said. “Our school’s mission is to serve the state of West Virginia and the special health care needs of all its residents. With this show, I’m hoping we can educate and inform a younger generation of citizens who will adopt healthy habits that strengthen their well-being as they grow.”

He continued. “Most people understand that a carrot is better for you than a cookie, but I believe it’s truly possible to create scenarios where individuals want to make the healthy choice. They want to put food into their bodies that will nourish them. With Abracadabra, we try to demonstrate that and have fun in the process.”

The Abracadabra television series was made possible by contributions from sponsors including Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC), West Virginia Mutual Insurance Company and Alpha Natural Resources.

The show airs on WV PBS weekdays from 1 to 1:30 p.m. and 8:30 to 9 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. For fun games and activities, as well as parent/teacher guides, visit the show’s website at www.abracadabra.org.