Celebrating 50 years
The sun was shining on button moon to help celebrate 50 years of Playboard Puppets and 10 years of the button moon trust.
Ian (Allen) and the late John Thirtle, began Playboard Puppets in the 1970’s. The company soon became know for it’s TV shows and adverts, as well as their successful touring shows like Red Riding Hood.
The 50th celebrations were a chance for fans and puppeteers to visit the home of button moon at the Black Barn in Tibenham.
As well as enjoying some excellent tea and cakes provided by the Women’s Institute (WI), there was also an opportunity to hear about the history of button moon and the show’s characters.
Ian Allen demonstrated the puppets and led the crowd in the famous button moon countdown.
It’s brilliant to watch the adults get as much fun and excitement out of the launch, as the younger fans.
Visitors who wanted to see more excerpts from the button moon library, were able to watch a video presentation in the video tent.
Familiar faces
In amongst the crowds of people admiring the button moon puppets at the Black Barn, there were some old faces, puppeteers from the button moon TV series and touring shows.
Hiding in the crowds were: Judith Bucklow, Tony Holtham, Chris Connaughton, Annie Richley, David Thorpe, Peter Kenny, Mark Alexander Todd. Plus Ian Allen (the boss) and visiting puppeteer (and button moon trustee) Roman Stefanski.
Of course when we were taking this photo, some of the puppeteers cannot be seen…old habits die hard 🙂
Helping Children with Cancer
The event at the Black Barn wasn’t just a great day out, and an opportunity for old colleague to reconnect, it also had a serious fundraising element.
On the day, the button moon trust raised £261 for Children with Cancer UK. This money will help to provide food, and support with the living expenses associated with caring for a child with cancer.
On May 5th the button moon trust will be participating in a second event to help the charity. This time, Eggbert will be organising puppet making workshops and shows.