Speaker: Bertie Pearce
1 September 2020
Mr Punch – the most famous puppet character of all time. His comic irreverence gave “Punch” magazine its title. His anarchic vitality has inspired opera, ballet and punk rock and his enduring popularity has seen his likeness on goods ranging from Victorian silverware to computer video games. Appearing in England in 1662, Punch is descended from the Italian Clown Pulcinella of the 15th century Commedia Del’Arte tradition. Even today This Lord of Misrule uses his slapstick to dispense with oppressive authority, be it politicians, political Correctness or the devil, while proclaiming his notorious refrain; ‘That’s the way to do it!”
Profile
Bertie read Drama at Manchester University and has a Diplome Internationale from the L’École Internationale de Théâtre Jacques Lecoq in Paris. He is a member of the Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star. He lectures and performs on cruise ships and to U3A, historical societies, festivals, schools and colleges. He has also toured the world with a magic cabaret show and a one man show entitled All Aboard. He has written articles for newspapers and magazines on entertainment and theatre.