MURRAY AND MOONEY
Even their relations think they're funny
FREDERIQUE soprano
BILLY BENNETT Almost a Gentleman
HARRY CLAFF supported by Winnie WAGER, in 'Bluff King Hal', an episode of Henry VIII
FLANAGAN AND ALLEN The Popular Comedians-'-Oi !
THE BBC
VARIETY ORCHESTRA conducted by CHARLES SHADWELL
A feature of tonight's Music-Hall is the appearance of a Royal Command Performance celebrity in Harry Claff of 'White Knight' fame, who will present his greatest character study, 'Bluff King Hal', an episode of Henry VIII. Before going into vaudeville, this fine artist appeared at the Savoy Theatre in Gilbert-and-Sullivan opera, and did five seasons at Drury Lane and a season at Covent Garden, besides fulfilling engagements at a number of other West End theatres.
He played two world tours with his various scenas. His costume for Henry VIII is a replica of the Holbein picture and, as the material is hand-woven brocade, it is uncomfortably heavy. While he was appearing in New York during a heat wave, the manager of the theatre was astonished to feel the weight of the costume. ' Say, Mr. Claff, you can't wear this. Why don't you play the act in a tuxedo ? ' Harry pointed out that he could not possibly play Henry VIII in evening dress. ' Why not ? ' replied the manager. ' And who is the guy anyway ? '