The Rise of Variety
Frank Skinner and Suzy Klein explore the golden age of variety theatre, from the start of the 20th century to the outbreak of the Second World War.
In the second episode, Frank Skinner and Suzy Klein explore the golden age of variety theatre, from the start of the 20th century to the outbreak of the Second World War. They immerse themselves in the careers of megastars including George Formby and Gracie Fields, who both remain household names today. They also get to grips with some lesser-known artists, including La Loie Fuller, an innovative Chicago-born choreographer and dancer who took London by storm during the Edwardian era.
Two other stars of the pre-World War I era - the Scottish comedian and singer Sir Harry Lauder and the once hugely famous Vesta Tilley, a talented male impersonator - feature prominently as well, and Frank and Suzy attempt to recreate their acts, live on stage, at the end of the show.
Last on
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World War Two and Vera Lynn
Duration: 03:55
Credits
Role | Contributor |
---|---|
Presenter | Frank Skinner |
Presenter | Suzy Klein |
Production Company | Liberty Bell Productions |
Executive Producer | Jamie Isaacs |
Executive Producer | Claire Whalley |
Director | Jeff Morgan |
Writer | Jeff Morgan |
Musician | Paul Smith |
Participant | Vicky Butterfly |
Participant | Jimmy McWilliams |
Participant | Andy Eastwood |
Musician | Nico de Villiers |
Participant | Jonathan Lipman |
Participant | Jan Hunt |
Participant | Oliver Double |
Participant | Jackie Bratton |
Participant | Harry Brunjes |
Participant | Lenna Cumberbatch |
Participant | David Bret |
Participant | Kate Guthrie |
Hairdresser | Karen Hartley Thomas |
Hairdresser | Christine Vidler |
Costumer | Lauren MaCauley |
Broadcasts
Featured in...
Pioneers of Popular Entertainment
Exploring the history of British popular entertainment in the 100 years before television