Percy Press Snr (1902–1980) was widely regarded as the uncrowned king of Punch and Judy. Over many decades he performed at venues including the Hastings Pier, the White Rock Pavilion in Hastings, and Madame Tussauds in London, and he also served for a time as Chairman of the Guild. His legacy continued through his sons, Percy and Leslie, both of whom became Punch and Judy professors. The late Percy Press II worked for many years in Covent Garden, travelled internationally as an ambassador for Punch, and played a key role in establishing the Punch and Judy Fellowship.
The photograph, sent to Waldo and Muriel Lanchester during the Second World War, depicts Percy Press Snr’s Mr Punch and Judy dressed in military uniforms, offering an example of how traditional characters were adapted to reflect the spirit of the time.
