That soft, furry sagpuss...

Today a glimpse into the history of Bagpuss

Welcome to Animated, where I look behind the scenes of an animation each week.

Up to the end of 2023, I will have interviews, and an extra weekly post throughout December about Disney, celebrating its centenary this year. I’ll also look at three Disney classics, all celebrating their anniversaries in 2023.

Bagpuss, dear Bagpuss

Old Fat Furry Catpuss

Wake up and look at this thing that I bring

Wake up, be bright, be golden and light

Bagpuss, oh, hear what I sing

History

Bagpuss is a much-loved British children's television series that first enchanted audiences in 1974. The show, created by Oliver Postgate and Peter Firmin, captured viewers' hearts with its endearing characters and imaginative storytelling. Its simple animation was filmed on a low budget in Postgate’s barn to keep costs down. Bagpuss is often considered a classic of children's television and remains a cherished memory for those who grew up watching it.

The series had only thirteen episodes and was first broadcast from 12 February to 7 May 1974. The title character was a saggy, old cloth cat, baggy and a bit loose at the seams. Although only thirteen episodes were produced and broadcast, the programme remains much loved and remembered.

Bagpuss was repeated until 1986 and 1989 topped the BBC poll as the favourite children’s television programme.

Plotline

The central character of Bagpuss is a saggy, old cloth cat who resides in a quaint shop window. When the shop's owner, Emily, leaves for the day, Bagpuss and his companions come to life. His friends include a wooden bookend named Professor Yaffle, a rag doll named Madeleine, a banjo-playing toad named Gabriel, and The Mice on the Mouse Organ. The show's episodes revolve around the group's whimsical adventures and problem-solving as the characters explore and repair broken items brought into the shop.

Characters

Bagpuss: The lovable, saggy, pink and white cloth cat who leads the group.

Professor Yaffle- Real name Augustus Barclay Yaffle: A wise, wooden bookend who provides insight and knowledge to the other characters.

Madeleine: A who adds charm and creativity to the team. She is a rag doll who mothers the mice and sings along to the show’s songs.

Gabriel: Is a rag doll toad who often takes the role of a protector. He will sing and play his banjo for the other characters in the show.

The Mice on the Mouse Organ: China marionettes inhabit the mouse organ, a musical instrument that comes to life when Emily leaves the shop and who scurry around helping fix the broken item brought into the shop.

Merchandise

Bagpuss has inspired a range of merchandise, from books and toys to clothing and collectables. The iconic Bagpuss character, with his distinctive saggy appearance, remains a popular choice for fans looking to relive the show's magic through memorabilia.

Around the World

While Bagpuss originated in the UK, its charm and timeless storytelling have found fans worldwide. The series has been syndicated and translated into various languages, introducing Bagpuss and his friends to a global audience.

Fun Facts

The voice of Emily, the shop owner, was provided by Emily Firmin, the daughter of the show's co-creator, Peter Firmin.

The names of the six mice were Jenny Mouse, Charlie Mouse, Janey Mouse, Lizzy Mouse, Willy Mouse and Eddie Mouse,

Professor Yaffle was based on the philosopher Bertrand Russell, whom Postgate had once met).

Bagpuss is a timeless classic that has captivated viewers' imaginations for generations. With its charming characters, imaginative storytelling, and memorable theme song, it holds a special place in the hearts of those who fondly remember the whimsical adventures of Bagpuss and his companions.

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