Introduction to Thunderbirds
The iconic series of dolls from the 1960s, Thunderbirds, has celebrated its 60th anniversary in the birthplace of the TV show. This celebration took place at the Slough Museum, where fans gathered to see the original dolls of popular characters such as Lady Penelope, Brains, and The Tracy Family. The museum is located on the Slough Trading Estate, where the program was originally shot.
Special Event and Exhibition
At a special event on Saturday, the Charity Museum in the city of Berkshire presented science fiction toys and memorabilia in a model exhibition of the original studio. The exhibition included a high-resolution demonstration of the very first episode, which was caught on film. This exhibition is open every Friday and Saturday until December 20th, giving fans ample opportunity to visit and reminisce about the series.
Reaction from Gerry Anderson’s Son
Gerry Anderson’s son, Jamie, expressed his gratitude and excitement about the celebration. He said, "It was really something special to see how so many people gathered to celebrate this legendary series. What makes it even more special is that it’s here on the Slough Trading Estate – the place where Thunderbirds was brought to life 60 years ago." Jamie also thanked the Slough Museum for enabling the celebration, calling it a suitable tribute to his father’s extraordinary legacy, and that of his mother, Sylvia.
The Inspiration Behind Thunderbirds
Gerry Anderson was inspired to create the show after hearing about the Lengede Mining disaster in West Germany in 1963. This incident sparked the idea of a futuristic global rescue organization, which eventually became the concept for Thunderbirds. The show used the sophisticated "supermarionation" technique, combining doll and complicated scaling models to bring the story to life in the studio in Slough. A total of 32 episodes were created using this technique.
Legacy of Thunderbirds
The 60th-anniversary celebration is a testament to the enduring popularity of Thunderbirds. The show’s unique blend of science fiction, adventure, and memorable characters has captivated audiences for generations. As Jamie Anderson noted, the celebration is a fitting tribute to the legacy of Gerry and Sylvia Anderson, and a reminder of the significant impact that Thunderbirds has had on popular culture.
