Wiggle Jeff ready to get kids moving to the music

They're hotter than a hot potato and bigger than a big red car - Hawke's Bay's youngest can enjoy their favourite band when The Wiggles visit next week.
Purple Wiggle Jeff Fatt says even after 20 years in the business their fans help keep the energy up. "The whole philosophy is the same," he said. "What will the child get out of what we do? The changes keep it interesting and the energy you get from the audience is fantastic."
As the Purple Wiggle Jeff is known for falling asleep at a moment's notice - there's even a song called Wake up, Jeff!
Once he's changed out of his purple skivvy he usually flies under the radar, but as their original fans get older they get recognised more often. "Parents with children sometimes recognise us," he said. "We're at the point where we're getting some second-generation fans. It's wonderful to be passing on Wiggles traditions."
The group started performing in 1991 in Sydney and Fatt was the only member without a background in early childhood education. "It really opened my eyes up to the world of the pre-schooler," he said. "They are very honest with what they say and do. I learned a lot about the way you speak to children. It's always inclusive, never talk down to them, always treat them with respect."
The show promised all the classics, and the audience could look forward to Captain Feathersword, Dorothy the Dinosaur and Wags the Dog.
Their pint-sized audience often knew the moves and words as well as the performers, so there was no covering up mistakes. "If something goes wrong there's no point trying to hide it, they will point it out," Jeff said. "We really love that, it can be a highlight in the show."
A highlight off-stage was getting to meet with their fans, especially sick children or those with special needs.
The group also visited Queensland after the destructive floods to support the affected families. "It's really heartwarming to meet children and know you have touched their lives," he said. "It was a bit of a distraction for parents and children who have gone through such a traumatic time."
And the best thing about being a Wiggle? "Everything we do I absolutely love - I can't think of any down sides."