Angelina Ballerina: Friends Forever

Lissome rodent youngster Angelina's prima ballerina aspirations are the driving force behind this four-episode compilation based on the books by author Katharine Holabird and illustrator Helen Craig. In “The Ballerina Rag Doll” Angelina feels good about donating “babyish” trinkets to needy orphans, until a sentimental family story sends her on a frenzied search to get a particular item back (however, after finding the new owner, Angelina makes a mature and charitable decision). In other episodes, Angelina jealously lies about a new addition to the family in “Angelina's Surprise,” takes care of an injured wild pet that returns the favor when she needs rescuing in “Arthur the Butterfly,” and quarrels with her sidekick best buddy Alice over confusion surrounding gifts and an upcoming fundraiser in “Alice's Present.” Also including two live-action “Little Stars” segments (on helping younger children learn to dance, and dancing in character) that feature students of the Royal Academy of Dance, this amiable program--boasting the voice talents of Judi Dench as ballet instructor Miss Lilly and Dench's daughter Finty Williams as Angelina--is recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams)