What is a 'swazzle'?

A swazzle is an unusual contraption used in certain forms of puppetry. The device consists of two metal strips tightly bound around a cotton tape reed. The swazzle is primarily used to produce the distinctive harsh, rasping voice of Punch in a Punch and Judy puppet show, and is held in the mouth by the 'professor' (performer).

Historically, the 'professors' maintained a cloak of secrecy over the design of the swazzle, only sharing it with those who had a genuine interest in learning the art of Punch and Judy puppetry. Swazzles are now more accessible and can be acquired from joke and magic shops, although the smaller, traditional designs are still considered superior.

The swazzle device needs to be soaked before use, usually with alcohol, water or saliva. It is then placed between the tongue and the roof of the mouth, with the sound being produced when exhaled air is blown through the two metal strips. The 'professor' changes his tongue position to adjust the airflow in order to change the sound or switch between voices.

The picture shows a traditionally designed, smaller swazzle.