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Review: Gerald Scarfe illustrations with Pink Floyd's The Wall at The Beaney, Canterbury

Teenagers - possibly the toughest nut to crack at times as a parent.

Say museum or exhibition to them, and they'll run a mile. But what about if you say Pink Floyd's The Wall..?

The Beaney in Canterbury has found an exhibition of illustrations which will appeal to many walks of life in the shape of the familiar - and often bizarre - designs by world famous political cartoonist Gerald Scarfe.

English National Opera - Orpheus in the Underworld by Gerald Scarfe
English National Opera - Orpheus in the Underworld by Gerald Scarfe

His bold and distinctive images created the animation sequences for the film of Pink Floyd’s The Wall in 1982, as well as the live concerts and he recently collaborated with the band’s Roger Waters for a live tour of The Wall.

And if you're hoping to entice a somewhat reluctant teenager in, just add a little sign as you enter which warns there is the use of a swear word somewhere (unfortunately, we did not spot it) and even nudity.

Their exhibition, Gerald Scarfe - Stage and Screen features actual animation designs from Pink Floyd's The Wall animation, along with notes from Gerald and Pink Floyd members, plus plenty more bizarre, colourful and ultimately thought-provoking works to get your creative juices flowing.

Pink Floyd The Wall by Gerald Scarfe
Pink Floyd The Wall by Gerald Scarfe

It's also very funny - check out Gerald's irreverent comments on Mickey Mouse when he presented designs to straight-laced Disney executives.

A cartoonist for the Sunday Times for 50 years, he also designed the familiar opening title sequences for the classic TV comedy series, Yes Minister and Yes Prime Minister, so is work is instantly recognisable.

For younger ones, there's his designs for Disney’s Hercules which are quite different to much of Disney's work. Gerald comments that some Disney animators never quite got used to working with his designs!

Gerald Scarfe cartoonist
Gerald Scarfe cartoonist

The exhibition features more than 100 works including preliminary sketches, storyboards, set designs, photographs, ephemera and costumes. They also include work for productions including Orpheus in the Underworld at English National Opera for which he designed the sets and costumes; The Nutcracker by English National Ballet, which was in their Christmas repertoire for five years, and Los Angeles Opera’s The Magic Flute.

You have until Sunday, June 16, to see it.

Entry is free, although donations go towards future exhibitions.

There are also children's activities, including the Hercules Adventure Pack (for £5), Make Your Own Puppet Show (for £2.50) and a Make Your Own Mask for £1.50. You could try all three for £7.50.

Call 01227 862162 or visit canterburymuseums.co.uk for details.

Read more: All the latest entertainments and events news across Kent.

Children's activities at Gerald Scarfe: Stage and Screen
Children's activities at Gerald Scarfe: Stage and Screen
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