When the second season of Disney Channel's popular show "Imagination Movers" debuts on Saturday, Hawai'i viewers are in for a treat: local actress Wendy Calio.

Calio plays Nina, a friend and neighbor of the Imagination Movers — a popular New Orleans-based alternative rock band geared toward the preschool set. The band has been described as a cross between Mister Rogers and the Beastie Boys.

Calio was born and raised in Wahiawa. She lives in Los Angeles, but while filming the show, calls New Orleans home for about six months.

"I try to make it back to Hawai'i at least twice a year to visit my 'ohana," Calio said via e-mail.

"Imagination Movers" stars band members Rich Collins, Scott Durbin, Dave Poche and Scott Smith. The season includes more than 25 new songs by the band and guest stars Cheri Oteri, Joey Fatone and Nancy O'Dell, among others.

We asked Calio Five Questions about the show and her Hawai'i roots:

Q. What do you enjoy most about working on "Imagination Movers"?

A. I love the camaraderie I have with the Movers and our New Orleans film crew. Everyone on set is so supportive. Filming a live-action TV show for kids has its challenges. From overcoming powerful gusts of wind to (having) shaving cream pie fights, the opportunities for unfortunate but hilarious mishaps abound. However, the thing I enjoy the most is my friendship with four amazing guys on and off the set. I may not partake in sports jargon, but I can definitely carry my weight as the token female in the group.

Q. Do you have a favorite character on the show?

A. Actually, I don't. Each character shines in their own way and we're our best when we all come together.

Q. The show is also known for its celebrity guest stars. Did you enjoy working with any one in particular?

A. So far, Cheri Oteri and Matthew Porretta have been my favorites. They came in with so much depth to their characters, they were so skilled and so very funny. ... I also have to mention that meeting and working alongside my generation's "teen idol," Joey Fatone from 'N Sync, was definitely a milestone in my career. I remember watching them on Disney Channel when I was a kid and trying to memorize their dance moves.

Q. Why would you encourage parents and children who haven't yet seen the show to tune in for the new season?

A. I'm gonna say right off the bat that season 2 is by far cooler and funnier. There are some really great guest stars, tons of new music and a lot more Nina. However, I'm sorry to say that my character has graduated from polka dots, but I'm pretty sure you'll like my new outfits.

Q. What do you miss most about Hawai'i?

A. Eating poke and sitting on the beach, enjoying the sun and balmy trade winds.