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Transcript: Clarissa the Clown
Mr. Hugo’s Little Library
Descriptive Transcript
[Upbeat music]
[Logo] “t.v.o kids original.”
DESCRIPTION: The animated multicoloured logo bounces onto a white background. The word "kids" has an eye in the orange letter "d" and a smile in the lime green letter "s".
CHILD: Weeeeee!
[Children giggling]
DESCRIPTION: In live action, a colourful library is decorated with blue walls, curved bookshelves, a fake tree covered with fairy lights, a pink cuckoo clock, and a pink crystal lamp. Mr. Hugo, a drag king librarian, stands in the middle of the library, wearing makeup, a red tweed suit, a velvet mustard vest, and a green bowtie. Mr. Hugo has brown, curly hair and a mustache twisted at each end. Mr. Hugo uses a pink, bedazzled instant camera to photograph Dewey, his puppet bookworm library assistant. Dewey has orange hair and green-and-yellow fur, and wears a yellow bow tie.
MR. HUGO: Say, "No late fees!"
[Dewey, in gibberish]: No late fees!
[Camera clicks]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo takes the picture and attaches it to a slip of paper.
MR. HUGO: You look great, bestie!
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Thanks!
MR. HUGO: Now, let's fill in the details for your new library card.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo takes out a pink feather quill.
MR. HUGO: Name?
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Dewey! That's an easy one.
MR. HUGO: Dewey. We knew that one. Favourite book genre?
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Mystery!
MR. HUGO: Interesting. Didn't take you for a mystery buff.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Yep!
MR. HUGO: And three words to describe your reading habits?
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Eclectic. Uh... Unusual. Uh… Awesome!
MR. HUGO: Quite the range of interests. You are a dark horse.
[Dewey giggles]
MR. HUGO: And yet also a book worm.
[Dewey yawning]
MR. HUGO: Well, try to contain your excitement, Dewey. There's plenty more fun to come!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo dances over to Dewey and tickles him with his feather quill.
[Mr. Hugo gasps]
MR. HUGO: Coochie-coochie-coo!
[Dewey giggles]
[Bright, upbeat, opening sequence music plays]
[Opening credits] “A T.V.N.Z Original.”
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo’s Little Library opening sequence plays. A montage features Mr. Hugo and Dewey with an ensemble of drag queens and three neighbourhood children: a blonde-haired girl, Georgie; a girl with brown hair in pigtails, Tia; and a boy with brown, braided hair, Arlo.
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like big adventures?
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like mysteries?
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh-huh!
DESCRIPTION: In the opening sequence, the children hang out in the library with Mr. Hugo. The library’s bookshelves move around on their own. The drag queens are dressed like witches, astronauts, mermaids, circus ringleaders, magicians, and dancing princesses.
MR. HUGO [singing]: What about space and mermaids
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Well, that sounds good to me. Do you like whacky factoids
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like fairytales
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh-huh!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Are you fond of crypto-zoological epistemology
[Music pauses]
DESCRIPTION: The drag queen ensemble, the children, and Dewey glance around with confused expressions.
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh... What's what? What, huh?
[Music resumes]
MR. HUGO [singing]: Well, you can find whatever you like
MR. HUGO [singing]: At Mister...
SINGERS [chorus]: Mister!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Hugo's
SINGERS [chorus]: Hugo's!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Little library
[Title] “Mr. Hugo’s Little Library”.
[Opening sequence ends]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo and Dewey sit together at a desk. Mr. Hugo uses his feather quill to write on notecards.
MR. HUGO: Making my friends library cards is pretty exciting.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: It sure is!
MR. HUGO: And making my best friend his library card is super exciting!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo holds up a notecard with Dewey’s picture attached.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: It's me!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo hands Dewey the library card. Dewey takes it in his mouth and drops it into a box filled with other cards. Mr. Hugo closes the box lid.
[Mr. Hugo gasps]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles at Dewey.
MR. HUGO: I'm so glad you're here to help me, Dewey.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: You're welcome, Mr. Hugo.
MR. HUGO: What would I do without you?
[Dewey, in gibberish]: I don't know. Talk to the books instead.
MR. HUGO: You can say that again.
[Dewey giggling]
DESCRIPTION: As he yawns, Dewey uses his tail to cover his mouth.
[Dewey sighs]
DEWEY: Ah!
DESCRIPTION: A little while later, Arlo stands in the center of the library. Mr. Hugo stands before him, holding his bedazzled camera.
[Bright music]
MR. HUGO: Getting a library card is a big responsibility, Arlo.
ARLO: I know. That's why I'm wearing my favourite outfit for the photo.
DESCRIPTION: Arlo wears an athletic long-sleeved red shirt and matching red shorts.
MR. HUGO: It's very "you".
DESCRIPTION: Behind them, Georgie takes a purple bowtie out of her pocket. Georgie wears a black dress, black tights, and a blue-and-green blazer. She frowns.
ARLO: Can you take the picture, please?
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo holds up the camera.
MR. HUGO: Say, "Mr. Hugo's Little Library"!
ARLO: Mr. Hugo's Little Library!
DESCRIPTION: Arlo smiles, and Mr. Hugo takes the picture.
[Camera clicks]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo hands the picture to Arlo.
MR. HUGO: Now, off you pop and fill in your details. Georgie, you're next.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie frowns.
MR. HUGO: Hello? Earth to Georgie?
GEORGIE: Um, I'm not quite ready, Mr. Hugo. Tia, can you go?
DESCRIPTION: Behind them, Tia is working at the desk. She turns around and stands in front of Mr. Hugo. Tia is wearing a black onesie with a white skeleton pattern over it.
MR. HUGO: That's an interesting outfit.
TIA: I wanted my photo to show what I'm like on the inside.
MR. HUGO: Then you picked exactly the right look. Say "Literally"!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo holds up the camera and takes a picture of Tia.
TIA: Literally!
[Camera clicks]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles and hands the photo to Tia.
MR. HUGO: Georgie, you're up.
[No response]
MR. HUGO: Georgie?
[Soft music]
DESCRIPTION: On the desk, Dewey uses a book as a pillow as he sleeps.
[Dewey grunts softly]
DESCRIPTION: In the corner of the library, Mr. Hugo finds Georgie sitting by herself in a reading nook. She draws on a notepad.
MR. HUGO: Are you worried about my photography skills?
GEORGIE: No.
MR. HUGO: 'Cause you shouldn't be. I'm an above-average photographer. Dewey said so.
GEORGIE: It's not that.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie pulls a purple bow tie from her pocket and shows it to Mr. Hugo.
MR. HUGO: That's a cool purple bow tie. It goes nicely with your new blazer.
GEORGIE: Yeah, I was thinking about wearing them for my library card photo, but they don't really go with my usual look… or how everyone sees me.
MR. HUGO: So?
GEORGIE: I'm worried people will make fun of me.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie puts the purple bowtie back in her pocket.
MR. HUGO: So? I mean, I get it.
DESCRIPTION: Suddenly, a pink book magically levitates in front of Mr. Hugo’s face. Georgie smiles at the book.
[Sparkling chime]
MR. HUGO: Don't worry, Library. I've got this.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie takes the book and hands it to Mr. Hugo. Mr. Hugo smiles.
MR. HUGO: Thanks, Library. As I was saying, let's read a book.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo and Georgie walk towards the others.
MR. HUGO [loudly]: Dewey!
GEORGIE [whispering]: Shh. I think he's asleep.
DESCRIPTION: Dewey is asleep on the desk.
[Dewey breathing softly]
MR. HUGO [whispering]: Arlo?
DESCRIPTION: Arlo looks up at Mr. Hugo.
ARLO: Yeah?
MR. HUGO [whispering]: Tia?
DESCRIPTION: Tia peeks her head around a bookshelf.
TIA: Yeah?
MR. HUGO [whispering]: Me paanui taatou. Let's read together.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo, Georgie, Arlo, and Tia sit together. Mr. Hugo opens the book.
MR. HUGO: This book is called, "Clarissa the Clown" by Joe King.
[Enchanting music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo is magically transported into the story. Standing inside a purple-and-yellow striped circus tent, Mr. Hugo is dressed like a circus ringleader. He wears a sparkly, blue jacket with yellow embroidery and tassels. Mr. Hugo’s mustache is twirled at the ends, and he wears a blue-and-yellow sparkly top hat, adorned with two large blue feathers.
[Upbeat music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo stands at a podium and reads the book. On stage, a drag queen stands, wearing a voluminous blue wig, blue star–patterned skirt, blue tights, a pointy blue hat, and a blue pom-pom on her neck.
MR. HUGO: Clarissa the Clown had just graduated clown college...and was about to run away with the circus. Hence her running shoes,
DESCRIPTION: Drag queen Clarissa the clown is wearing high-heeled black sneakers.
MR. HUGO: her breathable yet stylish outfit,
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa spins in a circle and then stretches her arms.
MR. HUGO: and the fact she was warming up so she didn't pull a muscle while she was running away. But Clarissa had one small problem… If she ran away to the circus, she wasn't entirely sure what her act was going to be.
CLARISSA: I trained as a clown, my name is Clarissa the Clown, and I come from a long line of clowns.
MR. HUGO: Big shoes to fill.
[Drum rim shot]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo points finger guns at Clarissa. Clarissa raises her eyebrows at him.
CLARISSA: But I feel like I'd like to be other things too.
MR. HUGO: Clarissa decided to seek some advice. So, she ran away to seek some wise circus legends.
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa smiles and runs across the stage. On the other side of the stage, a drag king with short, black hair and a long mustache, wearing a muscle suit and a leopard-print dress, lifts a heavy barbell up and down.
MR. HUGO: Her first stop was Mighty Marv the strong man, who was known for his strength and endurance. And his listening skills.
[Mighty Marv grunting]
DESCRIPTION: Mighty Marv smiles at Clarissa and begins to hold the bar and weights in one hand casually.
CLARISSA: Excuse me, my name is Clarissa the Clown. I trained as a clown, but I think I'd secretly like to be a kitten tamer too.
MARV: That sounds like fun! What I'm hearing is that you have a wide range of interests. You know, I'm famous for my physical strength!
DESCRIPTION: Marv puts one end of the bar and weights on the ground. He lets go to pose and flexes. Clarissa catches the weight; her eyes go wide.
MARV: But I also enjoy gardening, ballet, and baking.
DESCRIPTION: Marv takes back the weight. He smiles at Clarissa.
MARV: Just because my name's Mighty Marv, doesn't mean mighty is all I am.
CLARISSA: Thanks, Marv. Food for thought.
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa begins to walk away, and Marv speaks again. Clarissa stops to listen.
MARV: You know, if you're looking for work-life balance,
DESCRIPTION: Marv mimes balancing on a high wire.
MARV: Trapeze Louise might be able to help?
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa smiles at Mighty Marv, saults, and walks off.
MR. HUGO: Trapeze Louise was known for her high-wire balancing act. And her empathy.
DESCRIPTION: On stage, a drag queen delicately puts one foot in front of another while holding a hula hoop. Trapeze Louise wears a gold-and-orange sparkly tassel dress, a red wig adorned with tassels and gems, and golden puff sleeves.
CLARISSA: Pardon me, though my name is Clarissa the Clown, I'd like to branch out into stand-up comedy too.
LOUISE: That sounds like fun! I get the feeling you'd be good at that. You know, along with trapeze, I also enjoy cycling, reading, and bubblegum making!
CLARISSA: Thanks, Louise. I'll chew that over.
[Drum rim shot]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo raises his eyebrows. Clarissa begins to walk offstage, but Louise speaks again, and she stops.
LOUISE: You know, if you still can't make up your mind, I highly recommend Hairy Claire, psychic extraordinaire!
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa smiles at Louise, salutes, and walks off. On stage, a drag queen ponders over a glowing, pink orb. She has a voluminous, pink wig and a curly pink beard. The drag queen, Hairy Claire, wears a long, black dress with fur cuffs and a gold shoulder cape.
MR. HUGO: Hairy Claire, psychic extraordinaire, was known for her extraordinary mind-reading skills, unique looks, and her softly spoken advice.
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa the clown walks up behind Hairy Claire. Before Clarissa speaks, Claire stops her.
CLAIRE: Wait, don't tell me! You've come for life advice.
CLARISSA: I have!
DESCRIPTION: Claire walks around Clarissa while holding her shoulders.
CLAIRE: I also sense that you have choices upon choices... upon choices.
CLARISSA: I do!
CLAIRE: Let me guess! Your name is... Larissa the Clown,
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo frowns.
CLAIRE: you've come from a long line of clowns... Hm... but you're not convinced clowning is for you?
[Clarissa gasps]
CLARISSA: You got everything right! Except my name is Clarissa, not Larissa.
CLAIRE: No, no, that's what I said. Clarissa.
CLARISSA: Wow, you really are a mind reader.
CLAIRE: Yes, I know. But I also enjoy bird-watching, origami, and watching kung fu movies with my cousins.
CLARISSA: Thanks, Hairy Claire. I think I know what my circus act is going to be.
[Upbeat, electro swing music]
DESCRIPTION: In a vibrant musical number, Clarissa sings and dances. Hairy Claire, Trapeze Louise, and Mighty Mike accompany her.
Clarissa [singing]: There can be no right or wrong. There's only what you like.
DESCRIPTION: Hairy Claire holds a huge paper crane.
CLAIRE [singing]: I can make a paper crane
DESCRIPTION: Trapeze Louise walks a bike across the stage.
LOUISE [signing]: and I can ride a bike
DESCRIPTION: Mighty Marv holds a pink and blue cake and goes back-to-back with Clarissa.
MARV [singing]: I might bake a 12-layer cake if I'm in the mood. I can do just what I want.
CLARISSA [singing]: I'm full of multitudes
CLAIRE [singing]: Do you like it
ENSEMBLE [singing]: Yeah!
CLAIRE [singing]: You're in luck then it's for you
LOUISE [singing]: Do you love it
ENSEMBLE [singing]: Why yes
CLAIRE [singing]: Yes, I surely do. Now I see that I can be just who I want to be. 'Cause I finally understand there are many me's in me
[Upbeat music]
DESCRIPTION: Claire, Louise, Marv, and Clarissa dance on stage. Mr. Hugo joins them, and Marv helps Mr. Hugo lift a heavy weight above his head.
[Swing music]
MR. HUGO [singing]: Clarissa can do every trick, she's catching every ball.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo tosses the weight to Clarissa, who catches it in her arms.
MR. HUGO [singing]: Clarissa doesn't need to pick, no, she can do it all.
CLAIRE [singing]: Do you like it
CLARISSA [singing]: Yeah
CLAIRE [singing]: You're in luck then it's for you
LOUISE [singing]: Do you love it
CLARISSA [singing]: Why yes. Yes, I surely do.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo is magically transported back to the Little Library as the song continues. Mr. Hugo dances with Tia, Georgie, and Arlo.
CLARISSA [singing]: Now I see that I can be just who I want to be. 'Cause I finally understand there are many me's in me
[Musical number ends]
DESCRIPTION: Georgie, Tia, Arlo, and Mr. Hugo pose as the song concludes.
[Enchanting music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo and the children sit back down together.
MR. HUGO: The end.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie holds her purple bowtie.
GEORGIE: I think I'm ready for my photo, Mr. Hugo.
MR. HUGO: Yes! Camera! Yes!
DESCRIPTION: Later, Mr. Hugo takes Georgie’s photograph. She wears her purple bowtie.
[Camera clicking]
MR. HUGO: Georgie, I hereby welcome you to the Bow Tie Club! There are currently two members: myself and Dewey. We meet every second Thursday in the style section. Bring snacks!
GEORGIE: Thanks. You know, I think I'd like to be a librarian when I grow up.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles brightly.
MR. HUGO: I am thrilled to hear that!
GEORGIE: Either a librarian, or a writer, or an illustrator, or an archeologist.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo continues smiling.
MR. HUGO: I remain thrilled! I'll let Dewey know. Dewey?
[No response]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo turns to Arlo, who is leaning against a desk.
MR. HUGO: Arlo?
ARLO: Yo?
MR. HUGO: Have you seen Dewey?
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo hands Arlo the camera. Arlo sets the camera down on the desk.
ARLO: No. But I'm sure he's around here somewhere. Tia? Have you seen Dewey?
TIA: Um, sort of!
DESCRIPTION: Tia looks up at the ceiling, where a glowing green cocoon hangs.
TIA: I think he's inside that cocoon.
GEORGIE: Wow.
ARLO: Whoa.
MR. HUGO: Dewey? Is that really you?
[Sparkling chimes]
ARLO: I think that means yes.
MR. HUGO: Dewey was supposed to help me open my library.
ARLO: We'll help you, Mr. H!
GEORGIE: Yeah!
[Sparkling chime]
DESCRIPTION: Arlo looks at Georgie.
ARLO: I like your look today, Georgie.
GEORGIE: Thanks. You too.
ARLO: Thanks, I put a lot of thought into it.
MR. HUGO: Hm, I think I might need to retake Dewey's ID photo for his library card.
DESCRIPTION: Dewey’s cocoon glows red and green.
[Mystical music]
[Upbeat music]
[End Credits] “Executive Producers: Gary Scott, Victoria Spackman, Ken Faier, Richard McConnell. Created by: George Fowler, Nathan Muge, Mary Baker. Producers: Sam Wilton, Marlene Schmidt. Creative Producer: Cheryl Hassen. Associate Producer: Nathan Mudge. Director & Associate Producer: Caroline Bell–Booth. Lead Writer: Amanda Alison. Cast: Mr. Hugo, George Fowler. Dewey, Rebekah Head. Georgie, Roxy Hyde. Arlo, Jacob Slaughter. Tia, Hannah Ellis. Various: Jthan Morgan, Robin, Aunty T, Olivia, Slay, Eric Rich, Joshua Hughes. Line Producer: Anna Houghton. Production Manager: Tom Kelly. Production Secretary: Amelia Walshe. Production Runner: Rachel Williams. Production Accountant: Victoria Dabbs. Produced in Association with Knowledge: kids. tvoKids. T.V.N.Z. R.N.Z. Produced with the financial support of Irirangi Te Motu N.Z. On Air Tamariki. New Zealand Film Commission Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga. Shaw Rocket Fund (fuelling creativity), Canada Media Fund. Ontario Creates. Funded by the Government of Canada. Telefilm Canada. C.M.P.A., Canadian Media Producers Association. Writers Guild of Canada. Logos: Epic Story Media (it’s gonna be epic!). A New Zealand - Canada Co-Production. Gibson Group. Copyright 2026 Little Library Productions N.Z. Ltd. and Little Library Productions C.A. Inc. All Rights Reserved.”
Descriptive Transcript
[Upbeat music]
[Logo] “t.v.o kids original.”
DESCRIPTION: The animated multicoloured logo bounces onto a white background. The word "kids" has an eye in the orange letter "d" and a smile in the lime green letter "s".
CHILD: Weeeeee!
[Children giggling]
DESCRIPTION: In live action, a colourful library is decorated with blue walls, curved bookshelves, a fake tree covered with fairy lights, a pink cuckoo clock, and a pink crystal lamp. Mr. Hugo, a drag king librarian, stands in the middle of the library, wearing makeup, a red tweed suit, a velvet mustard vest, and a green bowtie. Mr. Hugo has brown, curly hair and a mustache twisted at each end. Mr. Hugo uses a pink, bedazzled instant camera to photograph Dewey, his puppet bookworm library assistant. Dewey has orange hair and green-and-yellow fur, and wears a yellow bow tie.
MR. HUGO: Say, "No late fees!"
[Dewey, in gibberish]: No late fees!
[Camera clicks]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo takes the picture and attaches it to a slip of paper.
MR. HUGO: You look great, bestie!
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Thanks!
MR. HUGO: Now, let's fill in the details for your new library card.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo takes out a pink feather quill.
MR. HUGO: Name?
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Dewey! That's an easy one.
MR. HUGO: Dewey. We knew that one. Favourite book genre?
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Mystery!
MR. HUGO: Interesting. Didn't take you for a mystery buff.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Yep!
MR. HUGO: And three words to describe your reading habits?
[Dewey, in gibberish]: Eclectic. Uh... Unusual. Uh… Awesome!
MR. HUGO: Quite the range of interests. You are a dark horse.
[Dewey giggles]
MR. HUGO: And yet also a book worm.
[Dewey yawning]
MR. HUGO: Well, try to contain your excitement, Dewey. There's plenty more fun to come!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo dances over to Dewey and tickles him with his feather quill.
[Mr. Hugo gasps]
MR. HUGO: Coochie-coochie-coo!
[Dewey giggles]
[Bright, upbeat, opening sequence music plays]
[Opening credits] “A T.V.N.Z Original.”
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo’s Little Library opening sequence plays. A montage features Mr. Hugo and Dewey with an ensemble of drag queens and three neighbourhood children: a blonde-haired girl, Georgie; a girl with brown hair in pigtails, Tia; and a boy with brown, braided hair, Arlo.
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like big adventures?
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like mysteries?
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh-huh!
DESCRIPTION: In the opening sequence, the children hang out in the library with Mr. Hugo. The library’s bookshelves move around on their own. The drag queens are dressed like witches, astronauts, mermaids, circus ringleaders, magicians, and dancing princesses.
MR. HUGO [singing]: What about space and mermaids
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Well, that sounds good to me. Do you like whacky factoids
SINGERS [chorus]: Yeah!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Do you like fairytales
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh-huh!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Are you fond of crypto-zoological epistemology
[Music pauses]
DESCRIPTION: The drag queen ensemble, the children, and Dewey glance around with confused expressions.
SINGERS [chorus]: Uh... What's what? What, huh?
[Music resumes]
MR. HUGO [singing]: Well, you can find whatever you like
MR. HUGO [singing]: At Mister...
SINGERS [chorus]: Mister!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Hugo's
SINGERS [chorus]: Hugo's!
MR. HUGO [singing]: Little library
[Title] “Mr. Hugo’s Little Library”.
[Opening sequence ends]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo and Dewey sit together at a desk. Mr. Hugo uses his feather quill to write on notecards.
MR. HUGO: Making my friends library cards is pretty exciting.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: It sure is!
MR. HUGO: And making my best friend his library card is super exciting!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo holds up a notecard with Dewey’s picture attached.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: It's me!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo hands Dewey the library card. Dewey takes it in his mouth and drops it into a box filled with other cards. Mr. Hugo closes the box lid.
[Mr. Hugo gasps]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles at Dewey.
MR. HUGO: I'm so glad you're here to help me, Dewey.
[Dewey, in gibberish]: You're welcome, Mr. Hugo.
MR. HUGO: What would I do without you?
[Dewey, in gibberish]: I don't know. Talk to the books instead.
MR. HUGO: You can say that again.
[Dewey giggling]
DESCRIPTION: As he yawns, Dewey uses his tail to cover his mouth.
[Dewey sighs]
DEWEY: Ah!
DESCRIPTION: A little while later, Arlo stands in the center of the library. Mr. Hugo stands before him, holding his bedazzled camera.
[Bright music]
MR. HUGO: Getting a library card is a big responsibility, Arlo.
ARLO: I know. That's why I'm wearing my favourite outfit for the photo.
DESCRIPTION: Arlo wears an athletic long-sleeved red shirt and matching red shorts.
MR. HUGO: It's very "you".
DESCRIPTION: Behind them, Georgie takes a purple bowtie out of her pocket. Georgie wears a black dress, black tights, and a blue-and-green blazer. She frowns.
ARLO: Can you take the picture, please?
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo holds up the camera.
MR. HUGO: Say, "Mr. Hugo's Little Library"!
ARLO: Mr. Hugo's Little Library!
DESCRIPTION: Arlo smiles, and Mr. Hugo takes the picture.
[Camera clicks]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo hands the picture to Arlo.
MR. HUGO: Now, off you pop and fill in your details. Georgie, you're next.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie frowns.
MR. HUGO: Hello? Earth to Georgie?
GEORGIE: Um, I'm not quite ready, Mr. Hugo. Tia, can you go?
DESCRIPTION: Behind them, Tia is working at the desk. She turns around and stands in front of Mr. Hugo. Tia is wearing a black onesie with a white skeleton pattern over it.
MR. HUGO: That's an interesting outfit.
TIA: I wanted my photo to show what I'm like on the inside.
MR. HUGO: Then you picked exactly the right look. Say "Literally"!
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo holds up the camera and takes a picture of Tia.
TIA: Literally!
[Camera clicks]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles and hands the photo to Tia.
MR. HUGO: Georgie, you're up.
[No response]
MR. HUGO: Georgie?
[Soft music]
DESCRIPTION: On the desk, Dewey uses a book as a pillow as he sleeps.
[Dewey grunts softly]
DESCRIPTION: In the corner of the library, Mr. Hugo finds Georgie sitting by herself in a reading nook. She draws on a notepad.
MR. HUGO: Are you worried about my photography skills?
GEORGIE: No.
MR. HUGO: 'Cause you shouldn't be. I'm an above-average photographer. Dewey said so.
GEORGIE: It's not that.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie pulls a purple bow tie from her pocket and shows it to Mr. Hugo.
MR. HUGO: That's a cool purple bow tie. It goes nicely with your new blazer.
GEORGIE: Yeah, I was thinking about wearing them for my library card photo, but they don't really go with my usual look… or how everyone sees me.
MR. HUGO: So?
GEORGIE: I'm worried people will make fun of me.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie puts the purple bowtie back in her pocket.
MR. HUGO: So? I mean, I get it.
DESCRIPTION: Suddenly, a pink book magically levitates in front of Mr. Hugo’s face. Georgie smiles at the book.
[Sparkling chime]
MR. HUGO: Don't worry, Library. I've got this.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie takes the book and hands it to Mr. Hugo. Mr. Hugo smiles.
MR. HUGO: Thanks, Library. As I was saying, let's read a book.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo and Georgie walk towards the others.
MR. HUGO [loudly]: Dewey!
GEORGIE [whispering]: Shh. I think he's asleep.
DESCRIPTION: Dewey is asleep on the desk.
[Dewey breathing softly]
MR. HUGO [whispering]: Arlo?
DESCRIPTION: Arlo looks up at Mr. Hugo.
ARLO: Yeah?
MR. HUGO [whispering]: Tia?
DESCRIPTION: Tia peeks her head around a bookshelf.
TIA: Yeah?
MR. HUGO [whispering]: Me paanui taatou. Let's read together.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo, Georgie, Arlo, and Tia sit together. Mr. Hugo opens the book.
MR. HUGO: This book is called, "Clarissa the Clown" by Joe King.
[Enchanting music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo is magically transported into the story. Standing inside a purple-and-yellow striped circus tent, Mr. Hugo is dressed like a circus ringleader. He wears a sparkly, blue jacket with yellow embroidery and tassels. Mr. Hugo’s mustache is twirled at the ends, and he wears a blue-and-yellow sparkly top hat, adorned with two large blue feathers.
[Upbeat music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo stands at a podium and reads the book. On stage, a drag queen stands, wearing a voluminous blue wig, blue star–patterned skirt, blue tights, a pointy blue hat, and a blue pom-pom on her neck.
MR. HUGO: Clarissa the Clown had just graduated clown college...and was about to run away with the circus. Hence her running shoes,
DESCRIPTION: Drag queen Clarissa the clown is wearing high-heeled black sneakers.
MR. HUGO: her breathable yet stylish outfit,
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa spins in a circle and then stretches her arms.
MR. HUGO: and the fact she was warming up so she didn't pull a muscle while she was running away. But Clarissa had one small problem… If she ran away to the circus, she wasn't entirely sure what her act was going to be.
CLARISSA: I trained as a clown, my name is Clarissa the Clown, and I come from a long line of clowns.
MR. HUGO: Big shoes to fill.
[Drum rim shot]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo points finger guns at Clarissa. Clarissa raises her eyebrows at him.
CLARISSA: But I feel like I'd like to be other things too.
MR. HUGO: Clarissa decided to seek some advice. So, she ran away to seek some wise circus legends.
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa smiles and runs across the stage. On the other side of the stage, a drag king with short, black hair and a long mustache, wearing a muscle suit and a leopard-print dress, lifts a heavy barbell up and down.
MR. HUGO: Her first stop was Mighty Marv the strong man, who was known for his strength and endurance. And his listening skills.
[Mighty Marv grunting]
DESCRIPTION: Mighty Marv smiles at Clarissa and begins to hold the bar and weights in one hand casually.
CLARISSA: Excuse me, my name is Clarissa the Clown. I trained as a clown, but I think I'd secretly like to be a kitten tamer too.
MARV: That sounds like fun! What I'm hearing is that you have a wide range of interests. You know, I'm famous for my physical strength!
DESCRIPTION: Marv puts one end of the bar and weights on the ground. He lets go to pose and flexes. Clarissa catches the weight; her eyes go wide.
MARV: But I also enjoy gardening, ballet, and baking.
DESCRIPTION: Marv takes back the weight. He smiles at Clarissa.
MARV: Just because my name's Mighty Marv, doesn't mean mighty is all I am.
CLARISSA: Thanks, Marv. Food for thought.
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa begins to walk away, and Marv speaks again. Clarissa stops to listen.
MARV: You know, if you're looking for work-life balance,
DESCRIPTION: Marv mimes balancing on a high wire.
MARV: Trapeze Louise might be able to help?
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa smiles at Mighty Marv, saults, and walks off.
MR. HUGO: Trapeze Louise was known for her high-wire balancing act. And her empathy.
DESCRIPTION: On stage, a drag queen delicately puts one foot in front of another while holding a hula hoop. Trapeze Louise wears a gold-and-orange sparkly tassel dress, a red wig adorned with tassels and gems, and golden puff sleeves.
CLARISSA: Pardon me, though my name is Clarissa the Clown, I'd like to branch out into stand-up comedy too.
LOUISE: That sounds like fun! I get the feeling you'd be good at that. You know, along with trapeze, I also enjoy cycling, reading, and bubblegum making!
CLARISSA: Thanks, Louise. I'll chew that over.
[Drum rim shot]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo raises his eyebrows. Clarissa begins to walk offstage, but Louise speaks again, and she stops.
LOUISE: You know, if you still can't make up your mind, I highly recommend Hairy Claire, psychic extraordinaire!
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa smiles at Louise, salutes, and walks off. On stage, a drag queen ponders over a glowing, pink orb. She has a voluminous, pink wig and a curly pink beard. The drag queen, Hairy Claire, wears a long, black dress with fur cuffs and a gold shoulder cape.
MR. HUGO: Hairy Claire, psychic extraordinaire, was known for her extraordinary mind-reading skills, unique looks, and her softly spoken advice.
DESCRIPTION: Clarissa the clown walks up behind Hairy Claire. Before Clarissa speaks, Claire stops her.
CLAIRE: Wait, don't tell me! You've come for life advice.
CLARISSA: I have!
DESCRIPTION: Claire walks around Clarissa while holding her shoulders.
CLAIRE: I also sense that you have choices upon choices... upon choices.
CLARISSA: I do!
CLAIRE: Let me guess! Your name is... Larissa the Clown,
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo frowns.
CLAIRE: you've come from a long line of clowns... Hm... but you're not convinced clowning is for you?
[Clarissa gasps]
CLARISSA: You got everything right! Except my name is Clarissa, not Larissa.
CLAIRE: No, no, that's what I said. Clarissa.
CLARISSA: Wow, you really are a mind reader.
CLAIRE: Yes, I know. But I also enjoy bird-watching, origami, and watching kung fu movies with my cousins.
CLARISSA: Thanks, Hairy Claire. I think I know what my circus act is going to be.
[Upbeat, electro swing music]
DESCRIPTION: In a vibrant musical number, Clarissa sings and dances. Hairy Claire, Trapeze Louise, and Mighty Mike accompany her.
Clarissa [singing]: There can be no right or wrong. There's only what you like.
DESCRIPTION: Hairy Claire holds a huge paper crane.
CLAIRE [singing]: I can make a paper crane
DESCRIPTION: Trapeze Louise walks a bike across the stage.
LOUISE [signing]: and I can ride a bike
DESCRIPTION: Mighty Marv holds a pink and blue cake and goes back-to-back with Clarissa.
MARV [singing]: I might bake a 12-layer cake if I'm in the mood. I can do just what I want.
CLARISSA [singing]: I'm full of multitudes
CLAIRE [singing]: Do you like it
ENSEMBLE [singing]: Yeah!
CLAIRE [singing]: You're in luck then it's for you
LOUISE [singing]: Do you love it
ENSEMBLE [singing]: Why yes
CLAIRE [singing]: Yes, I surely do. Now I see that I can be just who I want to be. 'Cause I finally understand there are many me's in me
[Upbeat music]
DESCRIPTION: Claire, Louise, Marv, and Clarissa dance on stage. Mr. Hugo joins them, and Marv helps Mr. Hugo lift a heavy weight above his head.
[Swing music]
MR. HUGO [singing]: Clarissa can do every trick, she's catching every ball.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo tosses the weight to Clarissa, who catches it in her arms.
MR. HUGO [singing]: Clarissa doesn't need to pick, no, she can do it all.
CLAIRE [singing]: Do you like it
CLARISSA [singing]: Yeah
CLAIRE [singing]: You're in luck then it's for you
LOUISE [singing]: Do you love it
CLARISSA [singing]: Why yes. Yes, I surely do.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo is magically transported back to the Little Library as the song continues. Mr. Hugo dances with Tia, Georgie, and Arlo.
CLARISSA [singing]: Now I see that I can be just who I want to be. 'Cause I finally understand there are many me's in me
[Musical number ends]
DESCRIPTION: Georgie, Tia, Arlo, and Mr. Hugo pose as the song concludes.
[Enchanting music]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo and the children sit back down together.
MR. HUGO: The end.
DESCRIPTION: Georgie holds her purple bowtie.
GEORGIE: I think I'm ready for my photo, Mr. Hugo.
MR. HUGO: Yes! Camera! Yes!
DESCRIPTION: Later, Mr. Hugo takes Georgie’s photograph. She wears her purple bowtie.
[Camera clicking]
MR. HUGO: Georgie, I hereby welcome you to the Bow Tie Club! There are currently two members: myself and Dewey. We meet every second Thursday in the style section. Bring snacks!
GEORGIE: Thanks. You know, I think I'd like to be a librarian when I grow up.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo smiles brightly.
MR. HUGO: I am thrilled to hear that!
GEORGIE: Either a librarian, or a writer, or an illustrator, or an archeologist.
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo continues smiling.
MR. HUGO: I remain thrilled! I'll let Dewey know. Dewey?
[No response]
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo turns to Arlo, who is leaning against a desk.
MR. HUGO: Arlo?
ARLO: Yo?
MR. HUGO: Have you seen Dewey?
DESCRIPTION: Mr. Hugo hands Arlo the camera. Arlo sets the camera down on the desk.
ARLO: No. But I'm sure he's around here somewhere. Tia? Have you seen Dewey?
TIA: Um, sort of!
DESCRIPTION: Tia looks up at the ceiling, where a glowing green cocoon hangs.
TIA: I think he's inside that cocoon.
GEORGIE: Wow.
ARLO: Whoa.
MR. HUGO: Dewey? Is that really you?
[Sparkling chimes]
ARLO: I think that means yes.
MR. HUGO: Dewey was supposed to help me open my library.
ARLO: We'll help you, Mr. H!
GEORGIE: Yeah!
[Sparkling chime]
DESCRIPTION: Arlo looks at Georgie.
ARLO: I like your look today, Georgie.
GEORGIE: Thanks. You too.
ARLO: Thanks, I put a lot of thought into it.
MR. HUGO: Hm, I think I might need to retake Dewey's ID photo for his library card.
DESCRIPTION: Dewey’s cocoon glows red and green.
[Mystical music]
[Upbeat music]
[End Credits] “Executive Producers: Gary Scott, Victoria Spackman, Ken Faier, Richard McConnell. Created by: George Fowler, Nathan Muge, Mary Baker. Producers: Sam Wilton, Marlene Schmidt. Creative Producer: Cheryl Hassen. Associate Producer: Nathan Mudge. Director & Associate Producer: Caroline Bell–Booth. Lead Writer: Amanda Alison. Cast: Mr. Hugo, George Fowler. Dewey, Rebekah Head. Georgie, Roxy Hyde. Arlo, Jacob Slaughter. Tia, Hannah Ellis. Various: Jthan Morgan, Robin, Aunty T, Olivia, Slay, Eric Rich, Joshua Hughes. Line Producer: Anna Houghton. Production Manager: Tom Kelly. Production Secretary: Amelia Walshe. Production Runner: Rachel Williams. Production Accountant: Victoria Dabbs. Produced in Association with Knowledge: kids. tvoKids. T.V.N.Z. R.N.Z. Produced with the financial support of Irirangi Te Motu N.Z. On Air Tamariki. New Zealand Film Commission Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga. Shaw Rocket Fund (fuelling creativity), Canada Media Fund. Ontario Creates. Funded by the Government of Canada. Telefilm Canada. C.M.P.A., Canadian Media Producers Association. Writers Guild of Canada. Logos: Epic Story Media (it’s gonna be epic!). A New Zealand - Canada Co-Production. Gibson Group. Copyright 2026 Little Library Productions N.Z. Ltd. and Little Library Productions C.A. Inc. All Rights Reserved.”
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