Party of Dorn, Hexxat, Rasaad and Neera. Who to choose as a CHARNAME and the 5th NPC?

So, it will be THIS WEEKEND. Only several days to wait ;)

I have no doubts the Devs have put so much effort into writing new quests related to new NPCs. To try them ALL I've decided to start the first BG2:EE playthrough taking Dorn, Hexxat, Rasaad and Neera in one brand-new party.

The first question I'm going to ask is what class/kit is good to take for a CHARNAME in this party. And the second question is which NPC is good to accompany us.

CHARNAME - ?

Blackguard
Thief
Sun Soul Monk
Wild Mage

NPC - ?

I think this discussion can be interesting not only for me but for others as well because the decision to take all 4 new NPCs may suggest itself.