Bagpuss, the beloved children’s TV show, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Created by Oliver Postgate and Peter Firmin, the stop-motion animation series only consisted of 13 episodes but left a lasting impact on those who grew up watching it in the 70s and 80s.
The show followed the adventures of a saggy old cloth cat named Bagpuss who comes to life along with other toys in Emily’s shop. Characters like Madeleine the Rag Doll, Gabriel the banjo-playing Toad, Professor Yaffle, and the mice on the “marvellous mechanical mouse organ” became household names for a whole generation.
One of the most memorable aspects of Bagpuss was its folk soundtrack performed by Sandra Kerr and John Faulkner, who also provided voices for some of the characters. To celebrate the show’s milestone anniversary, the creators of the iconic soundtrack will be performing the songs live at Cecil Sharp House in Primrose Hill on October 26th.
The event will transport audiences back to the enchanted shop where toys are mended and displayed in the window, alongside the pink striped Bagpuss. Sandra and John will be joined by folk duo Nancy Kerr and James Fagan for a night of music, songs, and stories that will appeal to children of all ages, including grown-ups who grew up watching the show.
Attendees can look forward to joining in with action songs like Row Row Row your Boat, The Mending Song, and The Bony King of Nowhere. Dressing up as favorite characters or wearing a mouse mask to feel part of the fun is encouraged, as fans immerse themselves in the nostalgic world of Bagpuss.
In addition to the musical performance, Sandra Kerr will also give a presentation on The Folk Roots of the Bagpuss Music before the main event begins. Tickets for the evening range from £12-£18 and can be purchased from Cecil Sharp House in Primrose Hill.
Don’t miss this chance to relive the magic of Bagpuss and sing along to the timeless tunes that have stayed with fans for half a century. Join Sandra, John, Nancy, and James for an unforgettable evening of music, songs, and stories that will warm the hearts of all who remember the beloved children’s TV show.
