The Last Puppet Show: Ted Milton's Musical and Artistic Journey
In a cozy studio above a rehearsal space in Deptford, London, the legendary saxophonist and poet Ted Milton, at 82 years old, is preparing for a European tour with his band Blurt and working on a new album with his duo the Odes. Surrounded by record boxes and poetry books, Milton is creating record covers for the tour merch table using his old woodblock setup. Despite his age and mobility challenges, Milton's passion for music and touring remains strong, as he jokes about his obsession with luggage and surviving on the road.
Throughout his colorful life, Milton has been a key figure in British postwar culture, rubbing shoulders with the likes of William S Burroughs and Eric Clapton. His avant-garde puppetry work, including a collaboration with Terry Gilliam on the film Jabberwocky, and his unique musical style with Blurt have left a lasting impact on the music scene. Now, a new film by his son George Milton, titled The Last Puppet Show, delves into Ted Milton's life and relationships through the lens of his puppetry art.
Growing up with a tumultuous family background, Milton found solace in music and rebellion. His journey from boarding school to the London bohemian scene, where he crossed paths with influential figures like Eric Clapton and Pete Brown, shaped his artistic path. Despite opportunities to work with bands like Pink Floyd, Milton's aversion to mainstream success and his rebellious spirit led him down a different path, focusing on his unique blend of music and puppetry.
Milton's puppetry performances, characterized by their anti-authoritarian message and Brechtian aesthetic, gained recognition in the post-punk era. His collaborations with artists like Tony Wilson and Wire brought his subversive art to a wider audience. With a knack for captivating audiences and pushing boundaries, Milton's performances with Blurt and his solo work continue to resonate with fans and critics alike.
As he reflects on his past and the evolution of his art, Milton acknowledges the changes that come with age. While his anti-authoritarian streak remains strong, he has learned to embrace compromises, such as performing sitting down at recent shows. Despite the physical challenges, Milton's passion for music and performance remains undimmed, as he looks forward to each new gig with renewed energy and concentration.
In The Last Puppet Show, a film that serves as a reflection on his life and art, Milton confronts his past self and the impact of his work on his family and collaborators. With a new set of puppets created for the film, symbolizing a fresh start and a reckoning with the past, Milton's journey as an artist and performer continues to evolve. As he navigates the complexities of his legacy and the changing dynamics of his art, Milton's charisma and artistic vision remain as potent as ever, inspiring audiences across Europe on his latest tour with Blurt.