Children's television broadcaster and puppeteer, Eugene Lambert, has died at the age of 82.
Hailing originally from Sligo, the creator of the popular children’s television series ‘Wanderly Wagon’ passed away in Dublin on Monday, January 22nd. He is survived by his wife, Mai, and eight children.
'Wanderly Wagon' was first broadcast in 1967 and ran until 1982 on RTÉ. The series followed human and puppet characters as they travelled around Ireland. Mr. Lambert was also the founder and and director of the Lambert Puppet Theatre, from 1972.
Irish minister for Arts, Sports & Tourism Martin Cullen has lauded the life and works of Mr. Lambert saying: “I am saddened to hear of the death of Eugene Lambert and I extend my sincere sympathy to his wife Mai and family.
“Eugene Lambert was a master of the art of puppetry and Eugene’s place in Irish theatre is unparalleled, both in the quality and uniqueness of his work as a puppeteer and ventriloquist and for the longevity of his contribution.
“Eugene was Founder and Director of Lambert Puppet Theatre and the inspiration behind Dublin’s International Puppet Festival. As Ireland's only festival dedicated to professional puppet theatre, it developed, under his guidance, strong national and international respect over the years by presenting the highest calibre professional companies performing for families and children.
“His Puppet Theatre in Monkstown animated and intrigued generation after generation. Eugene was a natural storyteller whose words were entertaining and accessible to his young audiences.
“Eugene’s legacy will live on through his talented family. With the support of his wife Mai and family, Eugene Lambert enriched the lives of both adults and children with such memorable work both at his Theatre, in their tours around the country; in Jury’s Cabaret and over many years on RTÉ television.”
He concluded by simply stating: “He will be sadly missed. May he rest in peace.”
