This production was commissioned by, and shown on, BBC Television. It has travelled abroad and was performed for the Royal Family on the occassion of the Queen's birthday.
In 1730, Martin Powell, bewigged and pomanded, sets up his booth for the nobs on Brighton Beach. In 1850 Professor Powell discusses his loathing of children and his puppets. His aspirations lie in the Music Hall.
In 1914, at the start of the First World War, Uncle Jack Powell puts Punch into a tin hat and assures his audience that the problems won't last beyond Christmas.
A family show suitable for children aged 8 and over.
Written bv Chris Harris & John David and directed by John David. Produced for BBC TV by Patrick Taggart
"Powell also set up his puppet show under the Piazza at Covent Garden. He appears to have been humped backed and otherwise slightly deformed. In the Spectator a letter was introduced purporting to come from the Sexton of the Parish of St Paul's, Covent Garden, complaining that when the bell tolls to prayers, "I find my congregation take the warning of my bell, morning and evening, to go to a puppet show, set forth by one Powell under the Piazza. I have placed my son at the Piazza, to acquaint the ladies that the bell rings for Church, and that it stands on the other side of the garden, but they only laugh at the child."
John Dent, South China Post
"The joy and laughter he produces through the exercise of his superb comic techniques as an actor are reinforced by the gentle wisdom which is the fruit of his exploration as a writer." Cliff Gilliam, Theatre Australia
"Everyone should take the opportunity to catch this brilliant hilarious comic genius." G Millar, The Examiner, Tasmania
"A brilliant one-man show ... stand-up comedy and exuberant puppetry in a wildly funny and at times poignant programme."
CVR, Eastern Daily Press, Bury St Edmounds
"Chris is a big knockout! A blend of perceptive ad libbing, humourous characterisation and downright daft slapstick humour."
Evening Post, Weston-super-Mare