Puppet Showplace audiences may recall the striped tin our ushers use to collect tickets before each show. That tin depicts a performance of “Punch and Judy,” the most famous puppet show in the world. For over two hundred years, a single puppeteer in a striped booth, often called the “Professor", has brought the comedic trials of Punch, Judy, & Co to audiences worldwide.
The characters of Punch and Judy have their roots in 16th century commedia dell’arte. Mr. Punch is often connected to the clownish Poncinello. In England, the iconic Punch and Judy show is typically a one-man performance, often performed outdoors, and dominated by the slapstick clowning of a pushy Mr. Punch. Through the years, many puppeteers have put their own personal spin on this classic. You may have even see some of those retellings on stage at Puppet Showplace!
Modern Times Theater presents “The Perils of Mr. Punch!”
Mr. Punch faces off with Resident Artist Emeritus Paul Vincent Davis.
Puppetmaster Jake’s Mr. Punch is anything but family-friendly!
When it came time for Resident Artist Sarah Nolen to put her stamp on these characters, she began by thinking “what does Judy have to say?” Standing beside her striped booth, “Professor Nolen” introduces us to the traditional characters of Punch, Judy, The Baby, the Alligator, and more, but she reminds audiences that for most of history, the show called “Punch and Judy” has focused primarily on the adventures of Mr. Punch. But what does Judy have to say?
“Professor” Nolen in front of her portable puppet booth!
“Judy Saves the Day” has it’s world premiere at Puppet Showplace Theater Saturday, January 12th! Join us for shows January 12-13, 19-21, & 27-28, Saturdays & Sundays at 1:00 & 3:00 pm, Monday at 10:30 am & 1:00 pm.
