Swanage Punch and Judy show taking on apprentice to continue tradition
It's hoped a new generation will mean the industry goes on
One of the few remaining seaside Punch and Judy performers is planning to take on an apprentice in Dorset to make sure the show goes on.
Joe Burns has completed another summer season on the beach in Swanage attracting thousands of fans, young and old, after bouncing back from putting away his puppets during the Covid years.
But the 31-year-old fears for the future of the traditional knockabout seaside entertainment so wants to offer the chance of an apprentice to learn the ropes - or rather, sausages.
He told PA:
"I am keen for a young person to perform Punch and Judy shows and keep the tradition going."
The professional puppeteer has been giving three shows a day during the summer in Swanage for several years and believes Mr Punch is as popular as ever:
"Beaches across the country used to have a Punch and Judy show but there are only a few left now. I want to make sure the legacy continues."
Joe says he loves hearing the squeals of delight from children or pantomime-like calls of 'he's behind you' as he serves up well known storylines, peppered with a few gags for parents.
Film anniversary boosting interest
Shows have been given a boost this year because of the 60th anniversary of Tony Hancock's film The Punch and Judy Man, which has sparked renewed interest in the history of the puppets.
The film is being shown in Swanage today (Sunday 22nd October) as part of the Purbeck Film Festival.
The event's bringing more than 80 films to dozens of venues over the next two weeks.
Locations range from cinemas to village and church halls, and a restaurant.