Sadness fills the South Australian arts community, as they pay tribute to the iconic actor and puppeteer, Michael Scheid, who passed away on August 6th.
In simpler terms, the well-known performer passed away in Adelaide, surrounded by his loved ones, after a prolonged struggle with poor health.
Scheid was most recognized for being the soft-spoken creator and puppeteer behind Bookworm, a cherished character on the children’s television program titled “The Book Place,” which ran from 1991 to 2003 on Channel Seven.
His death was confirmed in a heartbreaking social media statement by his daughter Cathy.
With great sadness, I share the news that my beloved father, Michael, took his final journey from this world. At the age of 79, surrounded by the melody of Ray Charles’ “Hit the Road Jack,” he exited peacefully and serenely.
During his last few weeks, he had his family with him constantly. In the day before his passing, he experienced a therapy session with a dog and also enjoyed a private piano concert.
‘Everyone who knew father understood that he was unique, always maintaining an infectious sense of wonder. He left a significant imprint on the burgeoning Arts and Theatre scene in South Australia, and will be dearly missed for the numerous roles he brought to life.’
Beyond the realm of the puppet theater, Scheid’s acting prowess was widely recognized on both the big screen and live stages as well.
Back in the 1980s, he was often seen in Adelaide’s Rundle Mall, announcing the start of the day as the local town herald.
Later on, Scheid became a cherished competitor in the Bay to Birdwood rally, driving his distinctive baby blue 1956 Morris Minor vintage automobile.
A passionate performer, Scheid also graced South Australian theatre stages in numerous productions.
In this context, he starred in the 1985 musical performance of The Wizard of Oz at the Bunyip Theatre, playing the role of the Cowardly Lion.
Throughout recent years, he maintained his involvement with children’s arts, collaborating with Bookworm to narrate ballet performances for the Australian Classical Youth Ballet between 1998 and 2022.
In addition, he was featured in the 2003 Australian film “Travelling Light,” acting alongside Pia Miranda and Marshall Napier.
Scheid’s musical collaborator Michael Mills remembered him fondly on social media.
According to Mills, when that face gazed upon you, it seemed like an invitation to explore a world full of madness and marvels, a kaleidoscope of oddities – truly a spectacle to witness.
‘There’s a little less genius and heart in the world today.’
Alongside his varied professional journey, Scheid made appearances on TV shows like “Carson’s Law” on Channel Ten in 1984, and often collaborated with community theater groups including the Therry Dramatic Society and Mighty Good Productions.
He is survived by his daughters Alice and Cathy.
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2025-08-13 04:19