Celebrating 80 years on 12 May, the Thomas the Tank Engine franchise releases a never-before-seen pilot episode from the archive, voiced by original TV show narrator, Ringo Starr. Thomas debuted in 1945 in a story created by the Reverend Wilbert Awdry for his son Christopher Awdry
There will also be a charitable auction of over 200 pieces from Thomas’ history in support of the National Autistic Society. The auction will feature signed items from previous character voice actors Olivia Colman, Eddie Redmayne & Hugh Bonneville, historic artwork and tv show props.
Mattel is releasing the original, never-before-seen 1983 pilot episode of the classic model series, Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, on YouTube. The content team has taken footage from the first test shoot to rebuild and digitise both the picture and sound to give fans a brand-new look at what started it all. Mike O’Donnell, the 1984-2003 series composer, also created a new bespoke music arrangement for this special episode.
“For 80 years, the Thomas & Friends brand has brought joy to generations, sharing timeless stories and valuable life lessons”
Roberto Stanichi, executive vice president, Hot Wheels and global head of vehicles & building sets at Mattel, said: “For 80 years, the Thomas & Friends brand has brought joy to generations, sharing timeless stories and valuable life lessons. As we celebrate this momentous year, we’re unveiling 40-year-old footage and newly uncovered stories from the vault for the first time ever, offering longtime fans and new audiences the chance to reconnect with the beloved adventures of Thomas & Friends in new and nostalgic ways.”
The anniversary auction will give fans a rare chance to own original pieces from the brand’s history, including signed items by celebrity friends and props from the stop motion series that first aired in 1984. Mattel UK will pay all net proceeds from the auction to the National Autistic Society, the UK’s leading charity that provides support, guidance and advice for autistic people and their families. The global auction opens for registration on 9 May, with bidding live from 12 to 28 May. More details can be found here.
The Thomas & Friends Storytime podcast is launching new episodes weekly beginning 12 May, each centred around key themes from Thomas’ 80-year history, such as friendship and teamwork. Each episode will be complemented with a full retelling of a classic Thomas story.
UK fans can also enjoy anniversary celebrations throughout the year, including continued fun with Day Out with Thomas: The Party Tour at heritage railways across the country. Enjoy a train ride with Thomas; a real steam engine, live entertainment with Sir Topham Hatt and Rusty & Dusty, photo ops, garden games, Thomas & Friends giveaways for every child and so much more! The celebrations continue with Thomas Land at Drayton Manor Resort, with over 25 rides and attractions for Thomas fans.
https://propstoreauction.com/auctions/info/id/442
