from the Victoria Palace, London Introduced by Roy Hudd with Max Bygraves(as 'Annie') , Chas & Dave (as 'Annie') Emma Dears (as 'Annie') June Whitfield and The Black and White Minstrels with George Mitchell featuring
Dai Francis , Ted Darling Blayne Barrington and Bob Hunter
A celebration of some of the golden moments in the illustrious history of this famous theatre known as 'The Royal Family's local'.
Roy Hudd , aficionado of the Variety Theatre past, present and future, reminds us of many of the 'greats' who trod these boards including Marie Lloyd , The Crazy Gang, Billy Bennett and Lupino Lane.
For some of tonight's guests it's a nostalgic occasion. Max Bygraves made the Victoria Palace his own home for four years and the never-to-be-forgotten Black and White Minstrels were in residence for no fewer than ten years - a record unequalled in musical history. During the series, television will join audiences in several of Britain's most celebrated Halls of Fame with visits to Bristol,
Sunderland, Aberdeen, Wolverhampton and Manchester.
Written by ROY HUDD
Musical director KENNY CLAYTON Sound ALAN FOX
Lighting JOHN CROWTHER Designer PAUL MONTAGUE
Production BARRY BEVINS and ROD TAYLOR . BBC Manchester
FEATURE: page 24