The characters from the popular preschool series Bananas in Pajamas have recently completed a JCPenney mall tour with live appearances at over a dozen locations nationwide.

It’s Tour Time was the second such tour featuring the stars of the Aussie-imported children’s series. The tour was put together by Promotional Management Network, a company specializing in live appearances by popular children’s characters.

The retail tie-in supported JCPenney’s recent merchandising efforts to launch a major Bananas apparel line. The apparel launch had previously been bolstered by a national newspaper ad and in-store point-of-sale displays. Promotion for the live appearances was done on a local basis only.

Children attending the show could register to win a travel sweepstakes to Australia by filling out an entry form at JCPenney the day of the show. Additionally, they could sign a get-well card presented to children at local hospitals.

The It’s Tour Time JCPenney mall tour was sponsored by Bananas’ licensees and promotional partners including Tomy, Capital Records, United Airlines and PolyGram Video.

JCPenney’s association with the preschool series is just one of many apparel and merchandise programs the 1,200-plus retail chain has employed to boost the sale of children’s apparel. It is also the retail promotional partner for Warner Bros.’ Space Jam, and will have many products available in conjunction with 101 Dalmatians.