Spy Vibe fave The Avengers is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer at the University of Chichester in June! The two-day event will host a gathering of cast and crew, including Honor Blackman (Cathy Gale), Linda Thorson (Tara King), Brian Clemens (writer), Leonard White (producer), and directors Don Leaver and Gerry O'Hara. Special video greetings will be made by Patrick Macnee (John Steed), Joanna Lumley (Purdy), and Laurie Johnson (composer). From Macnee'swebsite: "Fifty years ago - on January 7th 1961, the first episode of The Avengers was broadcast. On February 9th, 1961 - The Beatles made their debut at The Cavern Club in Liverpool, England. A coincidence? Or was that year truly the moment when the grey England of the 1950's bloomed into something way more colourful?" I'm with you, Pat! I think of it as the pollination of the sexual revolution, the youth movement, the cold war, and the space race- all influencing new expression in the arts. But, perhaps it was just something in the water?
Striving for a more in-depth experience than the average fan event, the organizers of the 50th anniversary celebration are planning detailed discussions with cast and crew. There will also be a display of memorabilia, including Emma Peel's Lotus, signing sessions, and a party held in a recreation of the infamous Hellfire Club (guests should not anticipate an entrance by Diana Rigg dressed as the "queen of sin"). I think I need to book my ticket! Full guest list and information at the official event website here. Honor Blackman website here.
