Dundee is set to host a special exhibition to celebrate the colourful history of the Beano on its 80th anniversary.
The city has put together a tribute to the comic – whose stars Dennis the Menace, the Bash St Kids and Minnie the Minx have entertained children around the world since 1938.
The McManus, Dundee’s Art Gallery & Museum, is collaborating with publisher DC Thomson’s Beano Studios this Summer, by launching the bespoke exhibition ‘Bash Street’s Back at The McMenace’.
The exhibition takes a retrospective look at the history of DC Thomson, as well as the behind-the-scenes story of the birth of Beano and history of printing.
Focusing on the fun and rebellious ethos of Beano, the exhibition showcases past artists and writers who have contributed to the comic and influenced the content throughout the years.
A ‘How to create a comic’ illustration, a copy of Beano from 1945 (rare due to paper shortages in World War II) and a glance at the eclectic mix of Beano merchandise such as the beloved ‘Fan Club’ memorabilia, chopper bikes and figurines of Beano’s popular characters will all feature.
There is also a special focus on the enigmatic Bash Street Kids, whose conception was inspired by pupils at the High School of Dundee and their playground. The school is just a stone’s throw from DC Thomson’s Headquarters at Meadowside and The McManus, which sit across the road in the City’s Albert Square.
The exhibition will be hosted in the ‘world’s capital of comics’ Dundee, where the publication was born.
Sinclair Aitken, Chair of Leisure & Culture Dundee said: “There is already a real buzz around this exhibition and we know that Beano fans young and old are really eager to visit. Beano is wrapped up in the rich fabric of Dundee’s story through the years, so it is really exciting to celebrate their 80th birthday and see this exhibit opening at The McMenace in their hometown.”
Mike Stirling, Head of Beano Studios Scotland said: “Bash Street’s Back celebrates 80 years of creative rebellion in the ‘World Capital of Comics’. I’m proud that the city’s favourite building has chosen to rename itself in honour of our amazing characters this summer; how brilliantly rebellious is that?!
“Tens of thousands of Dundonians have been involved in making Beano a worldwide phenomenon – so this is their tale too. A local success story, with strong international appeal, every visitor will learn some of Beano’s most cherished secrets…for free!”
The Bash Street takeover also means there is lots on offer to keep families and young people entertained with The McMenace Summer S’Kool, an offering which gives people the chance to explore the exhibition, create comics, make music and work with actors to create perfect comic timing.
‘Bash Street’s Back at The McMenace’ free exhibition at The McManus: Dundee’s Art Gallery & Museum, opens on 2 June 2018 until Sunday 21 October 2018.
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