Blue Peter 50th Anniversary Exhibition 18 Oct 08 to 11 Jan 09
When it was first aired on the 16 October 1958, no one could have imagined that Blue Peter would become the longest running children’s TV Series in the world. Hosted by Christopher Trace and Leila Williams, the inaugural 15-minute show launched a television programme that won the hearts of children throughout Britain.
Over the five decades, thirty four presenters have turned yoghurt pots into Tracy Island, dealt with an over-excited baby elephant whose incontinence in front of the cameras is legendary and created the Blue Peter garden at Television Centre. At a time when international travel was only available to the few, presenters travelled the world to bring the sights and sounds of other cultures into our living rooms and for those viewers who yearned for a pet, Blue Peter provided the next best thing; who can forget John Noakes’ sheepdog, Shep. Regular competitions, appeals and the occasional world record characterise a programme that has become a national institution.
As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations, the National Media Museum, Bradford is hosting a free exhibition charting the success of Blue Peter over the years. With plenty of classic clips and photographs, an area dedicated to famous badge winners and two complete sets reproduced just for the exhibition, this is one exhibition that Blue Peter fans should not miss.
The National Media Museum is dedicated to film, photography, television, radio and the web. Explore galleries crammed with an amazing collection of photographs, rare film footage and vintage equipment.
