An East Anglian Odyssey: The Story of the DaSilva Puppet Company

At last a long-awaited publication on the roots, ethos and development of the DaSilva Puppet Company (1951-1986) with a fascinating sequel dedicated to "Travels, Books and Semi-Retirement."  Author, Chris Abbott, has compiled a splendid overview of Ray and Joan DaSilva including their contribution as magicians, performers, theatre managers and puppeteers. From early performances in Wisbech to the West End of London and the opening of the Norwich Puppet Theatre in 1978 this account details their creative life and international reputation for creating a theatre of the people. This book is compiled from interviews with performers who worked with the DaSilva companies from the 1960's to 1986, and with access to the DaSilva archives. It will be of interest to local historians, puppet enthusiasts and all who remember the
childhood joys of going to the theatre. There are few touring companies that can boast of establishing their own building base while maintaining work of the highest creative standard for a popular audience; and who in semi-retirement continue to travel, sell and promote books and information and tirelessly network with the sector. This work is a little gem and should be in every puppeteer's library!