Episode 3 - Thunderbirds Are Go!

Big Design Adventure

Tim and Kev delve into the weird world of science fiction string puppets from the many iconic TV series produced by Gerry Anderson. From Thunderbirds to Space 1999, Stingray, Captain Scarlet and not forgetting UFO. Stand by for Supermarionation.

For behind the scenes stories of Anderson’s work and how the puppets never could walk properly, visit the brilliant YouTube collection of Century 21 films here:
www.century21films.co.uk

Here’s an explanation of the Ondes Martenot, the early keyboard synthesiser, used by Oliver Messiaen, Daft Punk and Radiohead - but also by Barry Gray to evoke the menace of the Mysterons in Captain Scarlet:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ondes_Martenot

You can hear almost all of Barry’s oeuvre on this Spotify link
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3Im4Wqd4Fd89BE61r7R7ED?si=JODPO6hRTBO5BC
D2Z-arjg&pi=jIXIC8EpQ2eyT

And if you’re a devoted nerd, listen to the Gerry Anderson Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-gerry-anderson-podcast/id1396254711

As a treat you can watch the 90 minute full-length feature film Thunderbirds are Go!
here: https://youtu.be/uNx7AR_j31Q?si=k5DVY-lvf7fvhJD_
The opening sequence of airport architecture and aircraft is inspirational. The Martian Exploration Centre interior is magnificently 1960s. The Swinging Star sequence with Cliff Richard and the Shadows (as puppets) is hilarious.

To view images from this episode, head to our Instagram page - @big_design_adventure

And be sure to follow Tim Ross (@modernister) and Kevin McCloud (@kevin.mccloud1)

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Big Design Adventure is proudly sponsored by Space Furniture (@spacefurniture), the Australian Institute of Architects (@institute_architects_aus) and is produced with the support of the Alastair Swayn Foundation (@alastairfoundation).

Hosts: Tim Ross and Kevin McCloud

Big Design Adventure is produced by Modernister Films on Wallumedegal land, Australia.

Executive Producer: Shelley Kemp

Audio Production: Madeline Joannou – Mylk Media

Music: Kit Warhurst (@kitwarhurst)

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