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What a Performance! Pioneers of Popular Entertainment

Episode 2: The Rise of Variety

Duration: 1 hour

First broadcast: on BBC FourLatest broadcast: on BBC Four HD

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. Show less

Contributors

Presenter:
Frank Skinner
Presenter:
Suzy Klein
Production Company:
Liberty Bell Productions
Executive Producer:
Jamie Isaacs
Executive Producer:
Claire Whalley
Director:
Jeff Morgan
Musician:
Paul Smith
Participant:
Vicky Butterfly
Participant:
Jimmy McWilliams
Participant:
Andy Eastwood
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:
Christine Vidler

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