Punch And Judy puppeteers unite for anniversary event
The beach show is one of only a handful still running daily across the UK
Four puppet show performers have come together for a rare event marking the 10th anniversary of one of the last remaining daily Punch And Judy seaside shows.
Joe Burns has been performing on the beach at Swanage in Dorset for a decade, and this year set a record of more than 40 consecutive days of shows because of the hot weather.
He was joined this weekend by 16-year-old William Vaughan, who recently completed his first summer residency on Sandbanks beach, representing a new generation keeping the tradition alive.
James Arnott, who performs weekly in Eastbourne throughout August, and David Wilde, who learned the craft street-performing in Covent Garden — Punch’s spiritual home – also took part in special events.
Mr Burns said: “Punch And Judy shows are such a special part of so many people’s summers, and seeing the same families return year after year is joyous.
“Bringing William, James, and David together gives audiences a chance to see just how varied puppetry can be.
“Punch And Judy being performed on beaches is exceptionally rare nowadays.
“This season, only nine beaches across the UK have had regular shows.
“Both William and David have successfully brought Punch And Judy back to seaside pitches at Sandbanks and Eastbourne.”
Mr Burns added that the hot weather this summer has drawn more people to the seaside – making him more money to sustain himself over the winter.