In the 1990's I worked for a video post production facility that made broadcast air masters for Beakman's World. Whenever someone was needed to do quality control on a finished tape I would beg for the assignment so that I could watch this wonderful show (and even get paid for it!!!). Even though I was in my mid 40's at the time I always enjoyed the humor that the performers brought to the subject of science.I recently (June 2013) watched "The Pirate" starring Gene Kelly and Judy Garland. There is a song in the film called "Be a Clown" that is performed by Gene Kelly and Judy Garland. While listening I suddenly realized that Lester the Rat sang a song called "Be a Mouse" on Beakman's World that used the melody from "Be a Clown".LONG LIVE THE BEAKMAN!!!

Our entire family enjoyed this show. It appealed to our three sons on different levels, for the education, the comedy, and for the discovery that learning can be goofy and profound at the same time. The actors clicked and the science was fun to learn. Outrageous, smarmy, sly, and delightful. The props were creative and dazzling. This show should serve as a lively example of children's programming for 3rd through 8th graders. Kids in the 8-15 age range deserve programs that don't insult their intelligence and that encourage maturity. The humor in this show is both sophisticated and silly -- a great mix for kids in this age range. It was smart and sassy. Buy the videotapes/DVDs if they're available. They'll be worth it.

I don't know if this is a hard fact, but I remember hearing, at the time the show was in production, that the names Don and Herb were selected as an homage to Don Herbert. Don Herbert, now in his late '80's (2005) played "Mr. Wizard", the greatest of all children's science programs hosts. Mr. Wizard was explaining science long before "Bill Nye, the science guy" or "Beekman" ever came along.The "Watch Mr. Wizard" show format was somewhat similar to Beekman's World. Take a science concept and explain in simple, but yet interesting terms that appeal to both kids and adults. Mr. Wizard did his demonstrations in what might be described as a "home kitchen laboratory" with simple props made from items you would find around the house (except for some of the weird chemicals.) The shows were shot with professional, child actors (because they wanted kids used to performing so as not to just stare blankly at the camera) but very little rehearsal, usually just a production meeting describing what to expect and a run-through, so that the expressions of the actors would be fresh and natural.Several of the child actors went on to successful careers in television.Don Herbert is alive and well today and still producing science oriented content for young people though his production company, "Mr Wizard Studios"

In this video, there are some of the highlights of the award winning show, "Beakman's World". There, of course, aren't all the best things on this tape, yet it is very funny and educational. It mostly features Beakman and Lester, but Josie, Herb, and Don are in it, too. I wish I could find the show on tv, though.