Since the group began in Sydney, Australia in 1991, The Wiggles have become “the world’s most popular preschool band.” With a popular TV show, millions upon millions of DVDs and CDs sold, and successful tours under their belt, the group has left a huge impression on the hearts and minds of kids across the world.

On Tuesday, August 12th, the “Pop Go the Wiggles Live!” tour will make its way to the Palace. Tickets can be bought for both the 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. shows at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 248.645.6666.

Founding member Jeff Fatt of The Wiggles took some time out to answer questions about the group and the tour.

The Arab American News (TAAN): Have you been to the Detroit area before? Did you enjoy your visit?

Jeff Fatt (JF): Yes, I went to the GM building actually and checked out the vehicles. I also went to my first ice hockey game (at Joe Louis Arena to see the Red Wings). We always enjoy our visits to Detroit, we love doing shows there.

TAAN: When you first started The Wiggles did you have any idea it would become this big?

JF: Not at all. I had no idea. The whole idea was purely to put out an album of children’s music. It’s been an adventure that’s grown over the years.

TAAN: What aspect of the show are you most proud of?

JF: We have made an effort to help kids with special needs. Parents of kids with autism come up to us and tell us we’ve helped with their development, things like that.

TAAN: You’ve done both Japanese and Yiddish songs before, any plans to use Arab songs in a future show?

JF: We would absolutely love to do Arab stuff but first we need to get access to some classic Arab songs. We will try to do it on a DVD in the near future. We try to reflect the cosmopolitan society we live in.

TAAN: Do you have a new DVD coming out soon?

JF: Yes, we have a new DVD called “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” coming out next week. It features a song of the same title by Leo Sayer.

TAAN: Are you getting enough sleep on tour (Fatt sleeps as part of an act and the audience yells “Wake up, Jeff!” to get him to wake up)?

JF: (Laughing) Yes, I get plenty of sleep on stage. It’s great for kids to have that kind of power over an adult to where they can make him wake up.