Convent Garden May Fayre and Puppet Festival this 2011
You’ll never be stuck for something to do in the British capital because there’s constantly something happening and they’re always plotting of ways to keep you entertained whether you like shopping, or theatre, you’re an art lover or you like learning about different cultures made easy thanks to the multicultural melting pot that is London. Either way, there’s something for everyone and the Convent Garden May Fayre and Puppet Festival is a good example. Taking place on the 9th of May, this event celebrates the art of puppetry and the origins of the famous duo Punch and Judy comprising a perfect family event and something to keep the kiddies (including the big ones) well and truly entertained.
If this year’s edition is anything like last year’s festivities then this spring event will include brass band parades starting at the church garden gate of St Paul’s Church Garden to mark the beginning of the event, toasts to the puppet Mr. Punch, a central part of British heritage, a special church service with none other than the man himself in the pulpit (can’t imagine it being a very religious ceremony), in addition to some live music and a stream of puppeteers.
In addition, the kids will thoroughly enjoy themselves learning about the tricks of the puppet trade in the puppetry workshops on offer where they can try their hand at some puppeteering of their own, and there will be puppet shows taking place throughout the Fayre starring the famous puppet duo themselves Punch and Judy to celebrate his 348th birthday and commemorating the first sighting of Mr. Punch by Samuel Pepys in 1662.
Finally, everyone can laugh at the clown’s lined up for this entertaining event, enjoy folk music and traditional Morris dancing, and take part in the Maypole dance.
Truly a traditional but fun-filled event for children and adults alike.
Practical information:
Date: Sunday, the 8th of May 2011
Time: 10am – 5.30pm
Where: St Paul’s Church Garden, Convent Garden
Address: St Paul’s Church Garden, Bedford St, London WC2
Nearest tube: Leicester Square, Charing Cross, Convent Garden
Admission: free
Telephone: +44 020 7375 0441
Email: info@alternativearts.co.uk