Whoopi’s town worth kids’ visit

“Whoopi’s Littleburg,” Nickelodeon’s new preschool offering, is a decidedly offbeat mix of ingredients that includes Whoopi Goldberg as town mayor and guest star storekeepers Sandra Bernhard and Rosie Perez.

All are playing against their edgier images and none are notably musical singers, but there’s only one downside to this innovative treat: It’s just a miniseries, with three episodes airing a month or more apart, beginning with “Welcome to Littleburg” on Sunday. Celebrity participation is wisely understated and resonant puppet action is the show’s foundation, as each well-written episode explores a child’s emotional landscape through simple plots about feeling sad, mad or lonely, making friends and acquiring self-confidence.

As mayor in the sunny town of Littleburg -- winningly crafted like cardboard cutouts and children’s drawings -- Goldberg dispenses laid-back affirmations, reassurance and wisdom to the youngest residents of the town. These include her own “kids,” namely, a purple puppet kitten named TJ and a tiny puppet bird named Gordy, and TJ’s best friend, a pig named Spencer.

Created by Robert Scull and Jonny Belt, the show’s fanciful setting is inhabited not only by animal puppet characters, but by several un-show-bizzy, real children. Music is a standout component, woven deftly throughout, including songs by New Orleans legend Dr. John, who also voices the show’s kindly animated sun.

*

(BEGIN TEXT OF INFOBOX)

‘Whoopi’s Littleburg’

Where: Nickelodeon

When: Premieres 8 p.m. Sunday

Rating: The network has rated the program TV-Y (suitable for all children).

Executive producers Whoopi Goldberg, Robert Scull and Jonny Belt. Director Tim Hill. Writers Scull and Belt.