The Punch and Judy tradition of puppet shows has its roots in the sixteenth century Italian Commedia dell'Arte theater.

VOA: special.2009.09.23

The French equivalent to Punch is Polichinelle, while in Russia he goes by the name Petrushka.

VOA: special.2009.09.23

Many other countries have their own versions of Punch and Judy puppets.

VOA: special.2009.09.23

Punch and Judy shows later became very popular in Britain.

VOA: special.2009.09.23

and women love those kinds of things. It had this catchy little punch line, 'Giddy on up and giddy on out,' which is very representative of my sense of humor."

VOA: standard.2010.06.18