Two neighbouring countries – Paflagonia and Crim-Tartary – are visited by a fairy who lives somewhere between them.
Fairy Blackstick (Jacqueline Hill) presents a ring to the Queen of Paflagonia and a rose to the Queen of Crim-Tartary, but when both parties are rather off-hand and slow to thank her, she wishes misfortune on both of them.
The comedic results that ensued were played out more than adequately by a cast of established and up-and-coming actors in true pantomime style.
This three-part fairy story from the BBC aired between 24 November and 8 December 1953.
Fairy Blackstick
Jacqueline Hill Mrs Gruffanuff
Joan Benham Mr Gruffanuff
Kenneth Connor King of Paflagonia
John Ruddock Queen
Muriel George Giglio
David McCallum Glumboso
Patrick Cargill Betsinda
Norah Gorsen HRH Prince Bulbo
Timothy Bateson King Padella
Eugene Leahy Captain Hedzoff
William Driver Baron Sleibootz
Cecil Brock Lord Spinachii
Wilfrid Brambell Executioner
Robert Algar Narrator
Peter Coke
