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Clip description
The title sequence is followed by host Earle welcoming boys and girls to Monday Showcase. He previews a special surprise to come in the form of the first episode of new serial Felix the Cat (1958–61). Earle then introduces ‘another animal friend of ours’ in an episode of serial book story Aroora the Red Kangaroo, written by Leslie Rees and illustrated by John Singleton.
Curator’s notes
A very early example of children’s television recorded and broadcast in black-and-white. The title sequence consists of simple graphic cards accompanied by gentle music. Earle, a very well spoken and rather formal host, wears suit and tie and addresses the audience direct to camera as he outlines the content of the day’s program. This reflects the formal nature of TV at the time. These days, presenters are casually dressed, young and fun.
The program consisted of studio hosting and guest segments, overseas-bought animations such as the American Felix the Cat (1958–61), film inserts and read stories accompanied by simple book illustrations with minimal animated effects. In this clip a read story about Aroora, a red kangaroo, and his life on an Aboriginal mission features static illustrations made more compelling through simple camera movement and enlivened by a raining effect.
This episode is a good example of the program using some imported American product (Felix the Cat), but still providing an Australian content counterbalance with the basically produced reading of Aroora the Red Kangaroo. It was and still is seen as important, that Australian children hear Australian voices and stories.
