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1 3 T H N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4 L O N D O N PA L L A D I U M T H E AT R E
2014
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
Presented annually in aid of the Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund
Staged in the presence of
His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge and
Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge
Executive Producers for the EABF Laurie Mansfield, Giles Cooper & Phil Dale Creative Director, ITV Studios Lee Connolly Executive Producers, ITV Studios Fiona Clark & Glenn Coomber Director, ITV Studios Richard Valentine
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
2014
ON BEHALF OF THE EABF, LAURIE MANSFIELD & GILES COOPER EXTEND A VERY WARM WELCOME TO TRH THE DUKE AND DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE ON THEIR FIRST ATTENDANCE OF THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE & HER ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE PAGE 04 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 05
2014
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
CONTENTS Royal Line-Ups & Royal Box
8-9
Life-President - Message of Thanks
12-13
Chairman - Welcome to the RVP
16-17
Vice-Chairman & Treasurer
19
EABF Officers, Trustees, Committee
21
History of The Royal Variety
23-33
Previous Performances
36-41
Patrons of The EABF
43
ITV Studios
45
Act One
47-55
Peter Prichard OBE Tribute
56-57
Brinsworth House
58-63
Work Of The EABF
64-65
Britain’s Got Talent
66-67
Act Two
69-76
The London Palladium
80-81
ITV Production Staff
82-83
Credits & Thanks
88-89
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 07
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‘‘
GILES COOPER, CHAIRMAN
A very warm welcome to the Royal Variety Performance 2014! Tonight is the 102nd year of this Great British institution and I’d particularly like to welcome The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who are attending their very first Royal Variety Performance this evening. On behalf of everyone at the EABF, a very warm welcome to you both and thank you so much for supporting this fantastic charity. I’d like to thank every Member of our Executive Committee, our elected Officers and Trustees for their hard work and commitment and for giving up their time free of charge for those in need within the entertainment industry. I’d particularly like to thank our Life-President, Laurie Mansfield, whose advice, assistance & support throughout the year has been absolutely invaluable to me. I’d like to thank the fantastic team at ITV Studios who once again prove they are unrivalled in live event TV production and I’d particularly like to thank our EABF Events team; Lorraine Keeble, Cathryn Tomlinson and Victoria Bond for helping me organise this, our annual fundraiser.
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WELCOME The EABF has existed for over 100 years, as the ‘entertainment industry looking after its own’, but this would never have been possible without the unwavering support of continuing generations of our Royal Family. I would therefore, above all, like to thank our sole Patron, Her Majesty The Queen, for her continued support of the EABF. Lastly, but by no means least, a very big thank you to all of the artistes performing in tonight’s Royal Command, all of whom have given their services free of charge in support of the EABF; I’m sure that you will do us all proud and thank you so much for devoting your valuable time and energy to this evening’s show. The stage is now set. Please sit back, relax and enjoy!” THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE ONLINE >> For more information on the Royal Variety Performance, please visit:
www.RoyalVarietyPerformance.org THE EABF ONLINE >>
Giles Cooper Chairman
For more information on the EABF please visit:
www.eabf.org.uk
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 17
‘‘
PHIL DALE
I
t continues to be such a privilege to be actively involved with, not only this great and traditional annual performance, but even more so with its beneficiary, the EABF; allowing us to continue our much needed work at Brinsworth House. Due to your generosity and the generosity of the artistes, sponsors and ITV, we have been in the enviable position of being able to organise a number of improvements at Brinsworth House over the years, bringing it up to the most modern of standards. The registered care home accommodates 36 residents, who are personally taken care of by the finest of nurses and care assistants and it is so heart-warming to see them enjoying these wonderful facilities and especially experiencing their delight when they are visited and entertained by today's excellent performers throughout the year. We are so proud to be closely involved with such a wonderful charity and we are richly rewarded for our trouble by the very simple joy of seeing these once so-active and talented ‘old pros’ living in the comfort they deserve and most importantly seeing them safe and with a smile on their faces. On behalf of the EABF I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support!” Phil Dale Vice-Chairman
‘‘
IAN FREEMAN
A
s we enjoy tonight’s Royal Variety Performance, the crowning point of another successful year for the Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund, it’s a good time to consider where we stand, given the challenges continuing to face the charity sector. The EABF’s award-winning residential home, Brinsworth House, continues to provide the highest standard of care for many former showbusiness professionals. On behalf of our residents and all our other beneficiaries, as well as all the officers of the Fund, our grateful thanks for your continued support. We face a daily battle to raise sufficient funds to maintain the levels of care and guardianship for which we are renowned and we thank you respectfully and profoundly. May I also thank our finance team of Nilesh Ruparel (Finance Director), Sital and Myra, for their hard work over the year. Please help us to maintain our invaluable work by donating whatever you can, no matter how small, through our website at www.eabf.org.uk/donate. We will, in return, promise to work diligently and conscientiously to guarantee a happy and comforting future for those who have brought us so much joy and laughter for so many years.” Ian Freeman Treasurer ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 19
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
I
t is a great joy for me as the owner, and therefore custodian of the world famous London Palladium to welcome the Royal Variety Performance back to the theatre once more. I grew up watching “Sunday Night at the London Palladium” never dreaming that I would one day own this iconic theatre. The London Palladium has hosted The Royal Variety Performance more times than any other venue and fully lived up to its billing as the “Ace Variety Theatre of the World” during variety’s heyday in the 1950s, 60s and 70s. The thousands of stars, comics, recording artists, bands and speciality acts who have graced this stage have ensured the building’s status as one of the most famous theatres in the world. On behalf of The Really Useful Theatres Group I offer my thanks and good wishes to everyone who has worked so hard to make this evening possible. I hope you enjoy the show.
THE LORD LLOYD WEBBER
PAGE 22 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
2014
HISTORY OF THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE T
he Royal Variety Performance was born in 1912, when His Majesty King George V and Her Majesty Queen Mary agreed to attend a ‘Royal Command Performance’ in London’s Palace Theatre in aid of the Variety Artistes’ Benevolent Fund (now the EABF). The Fund proposed to build an extension to its Home for elderly entertainers, Brinsworth House, which is still thriving to this day.
The quality and diversity of performers over the years is extraordinary...
from Elgar to Pavarotti, from The Beatles to Take That, from Laurel & Hardy to Morecambe & Wise, from Aretha Franklin to Leona Lewis, from Sammy Davis Jnr. to Michael Jackson, from Liberace to Sir Elton John, from Tommy Cooper to Harry Hill, from Shirley Bassey to Lady Gaga... the list of legendary performers is breathtaking and endless.
No expense was spared at this first Performance, and 3 million roses were strewn around the auditorium and the Royal Box. The show opened and closed, as would become traditional, with ‘God Save the King’, and performers included the legendary Scots singer Harry Lauder and male impersonator Vesta Tilley – the Queen reportedly covered her eyes with her programme at the sight of a woman in trousers. Ballerina Anna Pavlova was also in the line-up, having two years earlier caused a sensation in the Palace Theatre by slapping her male dance partner for dropping her by mistake. The controversial dancehall star of the day, Marie Lloyd, was not invited to perform as she was embroiled in a professional dispute, and was in any case (and perhaps rightly, given the sensibilities of the Queen) deemed ‘too risqué’ for royal eyes; she defiantly staged a rival performance at a nearby theatre instead, billing it as ‘By command of the British Public’, but it was not a success. By 2012 this original show had grown from comparatively humble beginnings into a spectacle watched by a TV audience of over 150 million worldwide, in 65 different countries. In Norway, for example, it has even become a New Year’s tradition to watch the Royal Variety Performance, which is broadcast at midnight on January 1st! continued > > >
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 23
HISTORY OF THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
For those who complain today’s show is too long, it should be noted that the 1912 Performance included 142 artistes, without the modern benefits of air conditioning and a smoking ban! The air was thick with cigar smoke and many audience members did not have seats, as the Theatre had a gentleman’s club quality which saw many people propping up the bar instead, coming and going depending on which acts were on stage. continued > > >
In 1921, His Majesty King George V agreed to become Life Patron of the Fund – the start of an unbroken line of Royal patronage from the reigning Monarch, which continues to the present day. The show subsequently became an annual event when the King decreed after the Performance that ‘the Monarch, or a senior member of the Royal Family would attend a performance in aid of Brinsworth House and the EABF once a year thereafter’. By 1923 the show had become such an established and popular event that tickets would sell out as soon as they were issued. It was therefore decided in 1926 that that year’s Performance should be broadcast on BBC radio, for enjoyment by a wider audience.
The second Royal show in 1919 was the first to be given the current billing of ‘Royal Variety Performance’; held at the London Coliseum a year after the end of the first World War, it was declared a celebration of peace and featured performers from allied countries including Australia and France. PAGE 24 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
In the early 1930s the Royal Variety Performance moved to the London Palladium, which was to become its spiritual home. Many stars still recognised today as timeless variety names performed in this period, including Max Miller and Gracie Fields; the 1932 show also saw debut performances by six comedians who went on to form the Crazy Gang, one of the most successful comedy troupes in British history.
1935 saw the Silver Jubilee of an ailing King George V and Queen Mary, and that year’s spectacular sell-out show proved sadly to be a fittingly grand end to the great support these Royals had shown the Variety Performance. The Jubilee drew huge crowds to the show, with people from all over the world desperate to get their hands on a ticket; one American millionaire offered a staggering £500 (around £36,000 in today’s money) for a pair.
1912
That year’s line-up included Stanley Holloway, Jessie Matthews and the Harry Roy Band, and was an enormous success; but the King who had paved the way for a century of Royal patronage of and dedication to the Fund unfortunately died a few months later, in January 1936.
A one-year interlude followed, during which King Edward VIII’s crown had barely touched his head before British rule and the reins of Variety Performance patronage were taken up once more by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (the late Queen Mother). The 1937 event was held again at the London Palladium, and it was widely agreed that controversial comedian Max Miller stole the show. Although no-one could have foreseen it, 1938 turned out to be the final show before World War II stopped play for the next seven years. As if anticipating the dark days ahead, seminal performances were given by an incredible 250 artistes, making it the biggest night in RVP history.
Riding high on Hitler’s defeat, Britain channeled the spirit of victory into 1945’s event, billing it ‘The Victory Royal Variety Performance’ and turning it into a national celebration. Tommy Trinder played host to a cast of acts that included Sid Field and Vic Oliver, and Robert Nesbitt made his debut as director for what was to be an impressive 25 further shows. Our current Queen Elizabeth attended as Princess, aged 19, accompanied by the King and Queen and her younger sister, Princess Margaret Rose. continued > > >
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HISTORY OF THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE Presenter of the 1947 Performance, Val Parnell, caused controversy by choosing several high-ranking international names at the expense of some rather less familiar, homegrown acts; he defended himself by pointing out that the purpose of the event was to showcase the Variety business to its best possible advantage for their Majesties’ enjoyment, adding as an aside that ‘We cannot afford, when people are paying ten guineas a seat, to experiment too much’. continued > > >
The Royal Variety Performance continued to reach new heights in the ’40s and ’50s, the precocious star of the 1948 show being an enchanting 13 year-old Julie Andrews, who followed up her solo spot by standing winsomely on a chair to sing the National Anthem in the finale. In 1951 Michael Bentine, future Goon, pulled together an eccentric and hugely popular comedy troupe from six acts who had been regulars on the Royal Variety circuit since 1932; The Crazy Gang was born, and raised the rafters. This was also the year in which surprise appearances were made in the Royal Box by an absent King George VI’s two private nurses; Queen Elizabeth reported to his well-wishers that the King was, regrettably, too ill to attend, ’but he is listening in’. Richard Murdoch and Kenneth Horne sang his Majesty’s health. There was much excitement around 1952’s Variety Performance, being as it was the first in the reign of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. No doubt to everyone’s relief, upon seeing the programme the Queen declared it ’the best show of all’ – one which featured the Beverley Sisters, Ian Wallace and Norman Wisdom. The Duke of Edinburgh took a particular shine to comedian Tony Hancock and his impersonation of a French Royal Navy commander. The decision of the Crazy Gang in 1951 to do away with the audience’s long-running fear of becoming too raucous in the presence of royalty proved such a success that in 1954 they took the idea to the next level; before the Royal family arrived, the Gang gave the audience a thorough warm-up by strolling in and out of their Box dressed as cleaners, and selling icecreams in the auditorium. By a stroke of good fortune, two Royal Variety Performances were arranged in 1955; this meant that the country was perhaps not as disappointed as it could have been when 1956’s show was cancelled due to brewing unrest surrounding the Suez Canal. The performers themselves were distinctly piqued, however, and a disgruntled Jimmy Wheeler launched into his act upon hearing the news, announcing ’I’ve rehearsed this bloody act for a fortnight so somebody’s gonna hear it’. Fortunately not the Royals, however, as his impromptu act was somewhat more risqué than the prepared version. continued > > >
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THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY’S CHARITY
Patron: HM The Queen Hon. Life President: Laurie Mansfield Chairman: Giles Cooper Vice Chairman: Phil Dale Established 1908 · Registered Charity No. 206451
The Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund (EABF), also known as The Royal Variety Charity, helps out ‘behind the scenes’ to bring essential comfort and support to those who have dedicated their lives to the entertainment of others. WE ARE HERE TO HELP >> The public face of the EABF is Brinsworth House, a dual registered residential and nursing home in Twickenham. This beautiful Grade II listed building is a safe and secure home for elderly residents; our team of professional nursing staff and qualified healthcare assistants provide care and attention 24 hours a day to meet the residents’ needs. In addition, the EABF operates a nationwide Grant system for those who have fallen on hard times through illness, accident or misfortune; wherever they are based in the UK.
DONATE >> The Fund’s largest fundraising event remains the ever popular Royal Variety Performance. However, in these very difficult economic times, your donations and legacies are even more vital to us to ensure the continuation of our much valued work. Please give whatever you can, by visiting our website www.eabf.org.uk
CONTACT THE EABF >> Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund, Brinsworth House, 72 Staines Road, Twickenham TW2 5AL For all enquiries, donations or residential matters contact us: T 020 8898 8164 F 020 8894 0093 E enquiries@eabf.org.uk W www.eabf.org.uk
Celebrating over 100 years of care for members of the entertainment profession
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 27
Chelsea Lodge wishes the EABF and all those associated with this year’s Royal Variety Performance a very successful and enjoyable evening! Chelsea Lodge is a Freemasons Lodge with over 100 years of history associated with show business - its members are derived exclusively from the entertainment industry. For more information on joining, please visit: www.chelsea-lodge.org.uk
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HISTORY OF THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE The first 1955 show was held at the Opera House in Blackpool, with predominantly regional talent such as Tower organist Reginald Dixon, comic double-act Jimmy Jewel and Ben Warriss, and a couple of young comedians by the name of Morecambe and Wise. The London line-up was more traditionally diverse, and included Benny Hill and the Chinese Classical Theatre Company. Independent Television’s bid to broadcast the show that year was swiftly quashed, on the grounds that TV would threaten the variety format.
continued > > >
The format began to undergo some changes in 1958 at the hands of Bernard Delfont and Robert Nesbitt, not all of them well received. Delfont decided to cut back on longestablished British acts in favour of the big American artistes of the day, Pat Boone and Eartha Kitt, as well as fresh local talent like Roy Castle, Max Bygraves and magician David Nixon. The omission of the adored Crazy Gang from the bill caused minor uproar.
Further change was afoot in 1959 when the Performance was held, for the first time, in Manchester Palace Theatre. As well as the traditional comic element in the form of Al Read, an 18-year-old Cliff Richard made an angelic and well-scrubbed appearance. The organisers finally gave in to the lure of televisation in 1960, a year in which the show was utterly eclipsed by Sammy Davis Junior. "In eight electrifying minutes,” the Daily Sketch excitedly reported, “this entertainer made the word ‘star’ seem inadequate”. In 1963, Beatlemania came to the Royal Variety Performance. The Beatles attracted ecstatic hordes outside the Prince of Wales Theatre, and in the lead up to the show several other artists’ rehearsals were practically drowned out by the hysterical screams of their fans. A woefully inadequate screened passageway was constructed between the theatre and the hotel next door where the famous four were staying, via which they were smuggled in and out of the Theatre. continued > > >
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HISTORY OF THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
A few feathers were ruffled by the embarrassingly huge popularity of The Beatles, and it was noticed that Marlene Dietrich in particular had an uncanny knack of popping up whenever any photographers were around.
continued > > >
A gifted comedy quartet comprising Peter Cook, Dudley Moore, Spike Milligan and Peter Sellers were a massive hit at the 1965 Royal Variety Performance, which returned to its original home at the London Palladium. Dusty Springfield and Shirley Bassey were also on hand to provide a quintessentially 60s musical element. The entire English football team took bashfully to the stage after their World Cup triumph in 1966, while the French singer Gilbert Becaud was forced to watch silently from the stalls after having lost his voice. Girl Power made its first appearance in the 1967 show, which was crammed to bursting with female entertainers after their absence had led to complaints the previous year – a modest Sandie Shaw was seen to have changed out of her revealing stage outfit to meet the Queen, commenting that ‘I am told PAGE 30 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
it would be more elegant to be presented to the Queen in something a little more special!’ Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, a seasoned music hall and variety afficionado, announced that the 1968 Performance was one of the best ever. Des O’Connor, Englebert Humperdinck and Petula Clark all played their part, and former Supreme Diana Ross used the occasion to make a moving tribute to Martin Luther King, whose tragic assassination had rocked the world earlier that year. By the 1970s the RVP had really got into its stride, pulling the crowds in with line-ups that positively glittered with stardom; national treasures like Ronnie Corbett and Elton John rubbed shoulders with international sensations including the Jackson Five, Carol Channing and the Duke Ellington Orchestra. A rather risque sketch from the popular BBC TV comedy ‘Till Death Us Do Part’ found its way onto the 1972 bill, much to the consternation of a public keen to protect their delicate Royals. In the event, all went smoothly on the night and a rather harried Bernard Delfont reported afterwards that the Queen Mother had said ‘Well, that wasn’t too bad, was it?’ with evident relief.
1974 was the year in which the Variety Artistes' Benevolent Fund became the Entertainment Artistes' Benevolent Fund, allowing a wider crosssection of showbusiness to fall under the charity’s protective net. The use of ’Crossroads’ star Noele Gordon as the show’s first ever female host was an additional landmark for that year.
In 1976, after 16 years of pre-recorded broadcasts, the Royal Variety Performance took a nerve-wracking leap into the world of live television. The long-suffering Bernard Delfont wearily recalls the poltergeist-level disruptions that beset that year’s show, including falling microphones, power outages and a persistent sound fault that rendered poor Mike Yarwood’s voice practically inaudible over a deafening orchestra. After two years in which to retreat and lick their wounds, the organisers braved the live format once again in 1978. Although all went well, the experience and the potential for embarrassment and disaster were deemed overall too stressful to make it worthwhile, and the show has wisely been pre-recorded ever since. In 1979, a no doubt grey-haired Lord Delfont passed the organisational baton to Louis Benjamin, highly qualified by dint of his position as managing director of Associated Television, chairman of Stoll Moss Theatres and life governor of the EABF. The show was held at the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane for the first time.
The 1980 Performance marked Her Majesty the Queen Mother's 80th birthday, and as such was a nod to all the variety show greats of the last 50 years who had kept the Queen entertained throughout her reign. 1981 saw another innovation, stimulated by the need to counter the mounting costs of staging the show. For the first time, sponsorship was introduced to offset the unavoidable production costs and as a less contentious alternative to raising seat prices. Louis Benjamin also alleviated the financial problem by selling advertising spots in the Performance programme, and re-negotiated screening fees in the UK and abroad. continued > > >
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 31
HISTORY OF THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 1986 was the BBC’s 50th anniversary, so in a fitting tribute this was the year the company produced and presented the show. From then until 2010, broadcasting and production alternated each year between the BBC and ITV.
continued > > >
ITV contractor London Weekend Television staged the Performance in 1987 and a galactic cast included Stephen Fry, Sarah Brightman and Tom Jones.
Two breaks from tradition followed a few years later. The 1990 Royal Variety Performance, staged by the BBC, was billed as Queen Elizabeth’s ‘Royal Birthday Gala’ and took place in July in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke of Edinburgh and Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon. Roger Moore, Sir John Gielgud and the Band of the Grenadier Guards all made an appearance. The following year, a performance of the musical ‘Miss Saigon’ was put on for the show at the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane.
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After this, the Royal Variety Performance was held in London’s Dominion theatre for the next five years with a roster of household favourites such as Lulu, Cilla Black and Tom Jones. American rabbiturned-comedian Jackie Mason vastly outstayed his allotted stage time, the adulation he was receiving seeming to blind him to the TV monitor mounted on the theatre’s circle flashing ‘GET. OFF. NOW!’ at him in large red letters.
Since 2008, Simon Cowell’s hugely successful ITV show, ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ has generously donated a large proportion of the money raised from viewers’ telephone votes to the EABF. In return, the EABF arranges for the series winner of the talent show to be awarded with the much-coveted prize of a spot on that year’s Royal Variety Performance. The first winner to perform was opera singer Paul Potts, followed by the incredible 14-year-old street dancer George Sampson, then the ten-strong dance troupe, Diversity. Gymnastic group Spelbound wowed the audience the following year, followed by Scottish singer Jai McDowall in 2011. Last year’s centenary Performance saw the enormously popular Ashleigh take to the stage with her dog Pudsey.
The Royal Variety Performance has been hosted by many cities throughout the UK in its lifetime, including Birmingham, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Blackpool and Manchester. In February 2011, the EABF awarded exclusive broadcasting and production rights of the show to ITV1 for the next ten years. This has secured the future of a great entertainment institution until at least 2021, and further strengthened the Fund’s links with our country’s most prominent commercial broadcaster.
The year 2012, saw a very special production of the Royal Variety Performance to mark it’s centenary year. The event was staged at the Royal Albert Hall, in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. A spectacular international line-up was presented that included, Robbie Williams, Kylie Minogue, Placido Domingo, Bill Bailey, One Direction, Girls Aloud, David Walliams, Rod Stewart, Andrea Bocelli and Neil Diamond, The 100th anniversary evening was celebrated in style with a further fund raising event at a lavish aftershow banquet at the Hilton Hotel on London’s Park Lane. This one evening of entertainment raised over £700,000 for the Fund, which enabled the EABF to continue its essential work in helping elderly and impoverished entertainers throughout the UK, and within its nursing and care home in Twickenham, Brinsworth House, for another year.
Written and compiled by The Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund Contributors & Editors: Paul Burton, Giles Cooper, Lord Bernard Delfont, Ian Freeman & Barry Turner
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE ONLINE >> For more information on the history of the Royal Variety Performance, please visit www.RoyalVarietyPerformance.org ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 33
wishing everyone a very enjoyable Royal Variety Performance 2014
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PREVIOUS PERFORMANCES RVP 86
2013 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES & HER ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUCHESS OF CORNWALL
Included: John Bishop, Gary Barlow, Torvill & Dean, Rizzel Kicks, I Can’t Sing X-Factor musical introduced by Harry Hill, Jessie J, Jason Byrne, Mary J Blige, Flavia Cacace & Dance ‘Til Dawn, Olly Murs, Robbie Williams, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Jimmy Carr, Attraction, Seann Walsh, Gareth Malone & Voices, Hal Cruttenden, John Newman, Bryn Terfel, Dame Edna Everage, Stephen Ward musical, Caro Emerald, Chas & Dave.
RVP 85
2012 LONDON, Royal Albert Hall Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: David Walliams, Circus Space, Girls Aloud, Jimmy Tarbuck, Amanda Holden, Britain’s Got Talent Celebration - Diversity, Spelbound, Paul Potts & Stavros Flatley, Bradley Walsh, One Direction, Des O’Connor, Rhod Gilbert, Ronnie Corbett, Alicia Keys, Katherine Jenkins & Placido Domingo, The Bodyguard - Heather Headley, Robbie Williams, Alan Carr, Matilda, Bill Bailey, Ashleigh & Pudsey, Rod Stewart, Ballet Revolución, Sir Bruce Forsyth, Andrea Boocelli, Kylie Minogue, China’s Three Tenors, Neil Diamond.
RVP 84
2011 MANCHESTER, Lowry Held in the presence of HER ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCESS ROYAL & VICE-ADMIRAL SIR TIMOTHY LAURENCE
Included: Leona Lewis, Nicole Scherzinger, Tony Bennett, Cee Lo Green, Barry Manilow, Jason Manford, Pixie Lott, Jai McDowall, Penn & Teller, Peter Kay, Greg Davies, Jimeoin, Tim Minchin, David Garrett, Omid Djalili, The Boy With Tape on his Face, Il Divo, Phantom of The Opera, Hayley Westenra, Rolland Villazon, Base Berlin, 3run, The Dhol Foundation, Stomp, Royal Marines, Kodo.
RVP 83
2010 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES & HER ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUCHESS OF CORNWALL
Included: Adele, John Bishop, Susan Boyle, Chelsea Pensioners, Cheryl Cole, Jamie Cullum & Rumer, Ray Davies & Paloma Faith, Micky Flanagan, Sarah Millican, Kylie Minogue, N-Dubz, Spelbound, Michael McIntyre, Take That, Russell Watson & The Royal Ballet, Daniel Whiston, Jack Whitehall, The Cast of Les Misérables, Band of Blues and Royals, The Cast of The Wizard of Oz.
RVP 82
2009 BLACKPOOL, Opera House Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Michael Bublé, Alexandra Burke, Hal Cruttenden, Miley Cyrus, Peter Kay, Diversity, Adam Hills, Lady Gaga, Bob Golding as Eric Morecambe, Les 7 Doigts de la Main, Katherine Jenkins, Paddy McGuinness, Jason Manford, Pilobolus, Mika, Bette Midler, André Rieu, Faryl Smith and The Soldiers, Paul Zerdin, The Heavy Cavalry & Cambrai Band, The Cast of Sister Act the Musical, The Cast of Here Come the Girls.
RVP 81
2008 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES & HER ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUCHESS OF CORNWALL
Included: Jimmy Carr, Brian May & Kerry Ellis, John Barrowman, Josh Groban, Leona Lewis, Rhod Gilbert, Rihanna, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo, Armstrong & Miller, The Pussycat Dolls, Naturally 7, Duffy, Take That, Only Men Aloud!, Peter Kay, George Sampson, Michael McIntyre, Cliff Richard & The Shadows, La Cage Aux Folles, The Lion King, Zorro.
RVP 80
2007 LIVERPOOL, Empire Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: The Heavy Cavalry & Cambrai Band, Seal, Viva la Diva, Al Murray - The Pub Landlord, Enrique Iglesias, Big Howard, Little Howard, The Cast of Hairspray, James Blunt, Russell Brand, Simon Cowell, Philip Schofield, Kate Thornton, English National Ballet, Raymond Crowe, David Jordan, MOMIX - The White Widow, Paul Potts, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Bon Jovi, Lang Lang, Kanye West, Joan Rivers, Dany Daniel & Edina, Teatro, Stephen K. Amos, Philip Achille.
RVP 79
2006 LONDON, Coliseum Held in the presence of HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES & HER ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUCHESS OF CORNWALL
Included: John Barrowman with The Puppini Sisters & Capital Voices, The Cast of Spamalot, Omid Djalili, The Cast of The Sound of Music, Sugababes, Meat Loaf, Jamelia, David & Dania, Jason Byrne, Take That, The Cast of Wicked, Barry Manilow, The Cast of Avenue Q, James Morrison, Jump, Ken Dodd, Rod Stewart, Michael McIntyre.
RVP 78
2005 CARDIFF, Millennium Centre Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Seventy-six Trombones led by Bradley Walsh, Blue Man Group, Katherine Jenkins, Catherine Tate, Charlotte Church, Joe Pasquale, Guys & Dolls, The Skating Willers, Il Divo, Alan Carr, Will Young, Funny Girls, Andre Portasio, Cliff Richard, Michael Parkinson, Sharon Osbourne,Ozzy Osbourne, Nicola Benedetti, Tomasz Reichelt, Caesar Twins, Dave Spikey, McFly, Andrea Bocelli & Bryn Terfel, Dame Shirley Bassey.
RVP 77
2004 LONDON, Coliseum Held in the presence of HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES
Included: Shane Richie, Natasha Kaplinsky, Funny Girls, Jamelia, Jimmy Carr, Brian McFadden & Delta Goodrem, Round The Horne Revisited, Girls Aloud, The Producers, Josh Groban, Ennio Marchetto, Michael Bublé, Lemar, Sir Elton John, Billy Elliot the Musical, Dara Ó Briain, Royal Variety Dancers and Capital Voices, Denise van Outen, David Omer & Yamil Borges, Will Smith, Shane Richie, Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy Osbourne, Gwen Stefani, Liza Minnelli, English National Opera, Cliff Richard.
RVP 76
2003 EDINBURGH, Festival Theatre Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Strathclyde Police Pipe Band, Scottish Power Pipe Band, The Drambuie Kirklston Pipe Band, Laine Theatre Arts Dancers, Flur na H-alba, Rachel Stevens, Ronnie Corbett, Cat Deeley, Daniel Bedingfield, The Oriental Swan (Hua Wong, Chen Wen and Wen Xiaoyan), Busted, Danny Bhoy, Hayley Westenra, Donny Osmond, Gloria Estefan, Al Murray - The Pub Landlord, Jamie Cullum, Katie Melua, Cirque du Soleil, Westlife, Luciano Pavarotti.
RVP 75
2002 LONDON, Apollo Held in the presence of HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES
Included: Bond the Legend, Will Young, Liberty X, Paul Zerdin, Shania Twain, Stomp, Men In Coats, Diana Krall & Natalie Cole, Bombay Dreams, Jimmy Carr, Kylie Minogue, Our House, Lee Mack, Elaine Stritch, Contact, Omid Djalili, Enrique Iglesias, Bob Monkhouse, Gareth Gates, Ronan Keating, Anastacia.
RVP 74
2001 LONDON, Dominion Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Included: Julian Clary, Hear'Say, Jethro, Cher, Anatoliy Zalevsky, Adam Watkiss, Samantha Mumba, Vinnie Jones, Charlotte Church and Robert Meadmore, Alessandro Safina, Denise van Outen, Donny Osmond, Jon Culshaw, Craig David, The Full Monty, Cirque du Soleil, Al Murray - The Pub Landlord, The Corrs, Russell Watson, Jennifer Lopez, Gypsy: A Musical Fable, Jackie Mason, Elton John.
RVP 73
2000 LONDON, Dominion Held in the presence of HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES
Included: Hey Pachuco - Martin Crewes and the RVP Dancers, Jane McDonald, Ben Elton, Kylie Minogue, Blast!, Jane Horrocks, Martin Clunes, Mark Williams, Cirque du Soleil, Tim Vine, Ronan Keating, The King and I, Elaine Paige, Notre Dame de Paris, Ronnie Corbett, Dame Shirley Bassey, African Footprint, Richard Stilgoe & Peter Skellern, Star for a Night - Celestine Walcott-Gordon, Bryn Terfel, Dominic Holland, Lionel Richie, The Beautiful Game, Westlife.
RVP 72
1999 BIRMINGHAM, Hippodrome Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Included: The Royal Ballet Sinfonia, Jean Butler & Colin Dunne, Brian Conley, Steps, Bradley Walsh, Billy Geraghty, Paul Zerdin, Charlotte Church, Ed Byrne, Westlife, Birmingham Royal Ballet, Ken Dodd, The Shaolin Monks, Terry Alderton, Andrea Bocelli, LeAnn Rimes, Joe Pasquale, Barry Manilow.
RVP 71
1998 LONDON, Lyceum Held in the presence of HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES
Included: Paulette Ivory, Laine Theatre Arts Dancers, Lily Savage, B*Witched, Peter Kay, Ulrika Jonsson, Eclipse, Oklahoma!, Jim Tavaré, Martine McCutcheon, Ronan Keating, Stephen Gately, Barry Manilow, Annie - the Musical, Phil Cool, Boyzone, Rambert Dance Company, Ennio Marchetto, Roberto Alagna & Angela Gheorghiu, Stomp, Spice Girls.
RVP 70
1997 LONDON, Victoria Palace Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Chicago featuring Ruthie Henshall, Henry Goodman, Ute Lemper & Nigel Planer, Joe Pasquale, Enya, Barbara Cook and Michael Ball, Jonathan Ross, Des O'Connor, Andy Leach, Stephen Mulhern, Andy Ford, Lydia Griffiths, Vladimir, Fame – The Musical, Dr Trevor James, Andi Peters, Spice Girls, Aleggria House Troupe, Harry Hill, Michael Bolton, Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake featuring Adam Cooper and Scott Ambler, Jim Davidson, Celine Dion.
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RVP 69
1996 LONDON, Dominion Held in the presence of HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES
Included: Bob Monkhouse, Moscow State Circus, David Strassman, Eternal, Pauline Quirke & Linda Robson, Robson & Jerome, Steve Coogan, Victor Borge, Joaquín Cortés, Des O'Connor, Brian Conley, Jim Davidson, Vik & Fabrini, Darcey Bussell & Jonathon Cope, Joan Rivers, Martin Guerre, Jackie Mason, Tom Jones.
RVP 68
1995 LONDON, Dominion Held in the presence of Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II Included: Carol Kenyon, Des O'Connor, Allan Stewart, Robson & Jerome, The Pendragons, Mack & Mabel, Alistair McGowan, Marvin Hamlisch, Bob Downe, Elaine Paige, Cirque du Soleil, Hale and Pace, The Cast of Riverdance, Joe Pasquale, Jolson - Brian Conley, Des O'Connor, Cliff Richard.
RVP 67
1994 LONDON, Dominion Held in the presence of HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES
Included: Brian Conley, Ria Jones, Laine Theatre Arts Dancers, Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts Choir, Ronnie Corbett, The Passing Zone, Lulu, Billy Pearce, The Cast of Oliver!, Dame Shirley Bassey, Cilla Black, Gary Wilmot, Jim Tavare, Gareth Rowan, Clive Anderson, Angela Gheorghiu, Viviana Durante & Zoltan Solymosi, Frank Skinner, Tony Bennett, Terry Wogan, The Cast of Riverdance, Take That.
RVP 66
1993 LONDON, Dominion Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Grease with Craig McLachlan and Debbie Gibson, Cilla Black, Frank Carson, Jim Henson's Muppets, Right Said Fred, Lesley Garrett, Brian Conley, Simon Drake, Grigorovich Ballet of the Bolshoi Theatre, Bee Gees, Forever Plaid, Bradley Walsh, Darren Day, Joe Pasquale, Lulu, Pickwick with Sir Harry Secombe & Roy Castle, Michael Barrymore, London Community Gospel Choir.
RVP 65
1992 LONDON, Dominion Held in the presence of THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES THE PRINCE & PRINCESS OF WALES
Included: The Cast of Cats, Kiki Dee with Ria Jones, Jacqui Scott, Philip Gould, Paul Gyngell, Brian Conley, Phillip Schofield and the children of Ocklynge Junior School & Kentwood Junior School Choirs, Reva Rice & Lon Satton, Jimmy Tarbuck, Chinese State Circus, Chris Tarrant, Gloria Estefan, Steve Coogan, Jim Bailey, Mel Smith and Griff Rhys Jones, Barry Manilow, Michael Ball, London Community Gospel Choir, Jim Tavaré, The Nigel Kennedy Ensemble, Sharon Gless, Mike Michaels, Leslie Caron, Tim Rice, Montserrat Caballé, Rita Rudner, Tom Conti, Bolshoi Ballet with Yuri Klevtsov & Nadezhda Gracheva, Gloria Hunniford, Michael Crawford with the London Choral Society.
RVP 64
1991 LONDON, Theatre Royal Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: A full presentation of the West End musical by Claude-Michel Schönberg & Alain Boublil, Miss Saigon.
RVP 63
1990 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER, HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II, HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH, HER ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCESS MARGARET & THE COUNTESS OF SNOWDON
Included: Sir John Mills, Wayne Dobson, Janet Jackson, Sir John Gielgud, Lisa Maxwell, Hayley Mills, Lionel Blair, Jeffrey Holland, Angharad Rees, Christopher Cazenove, Robert Meadmore, Bonnie Langford, Anneka Rice, Mark Curry, Jonathon Morris, Anita Harris, Jill Gascoine, Band of the Grenadier Guards, Geraldine McEwan, Wayne Sleep, Stephen Fry, Michael Denison & Dulcie Gray, Marilyn Hill-Smith, Arthur Davies, James Galway, Bernie Winters, Leslie Crowther, Simon Cadell, Patricia Hodge, Robert Hardy, Dame Vera Lynn, Howard Keel, Willard White, Roger Moore, Michael Caine, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Rowan Atkinson, Cliff Richard, Sir Richard Attenborough, Darcey Bussell, Irek Mukhamedov, Elaine Paige, Plácido Domingo, Dame Peggy Ashcroft, Sarah Brightman.
RVP 62
1989 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Michael Ball, David Essex, Rosemarie Ford, Paul Nicholas, Lisa Waddingham, George Marshall, The Cast of Coronation Street, Chris de Burgh, Nigel Kennedy, Freddie Starr, Melvyn Bragg, Frank Bruno, Harry Carpenter, David Frost, Hinge and Bracket, Diana Rigg, Selina Scott, Kenny Seagrove, Edward Woodward, Tina Turner, Northern Ballet Theatre, Elayne Boosler, Joe Longthorne, Julian Lloyd Webber, The Cast of Folies Bergère, The Argentine Gauchos, Lance Burton, Jerry Lewis, Sir John Mills.
RVP 61
1988 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: Ronnie Corbett, Bruce Forsyth, Mickey Rooney & Ann Miller, The Chongqing Troupe, Brian Conley, Kylie Minogue, The Cast of Neighbours, Mel Smith & Griff Rhys Jones, Cliff Richard, The Cast of Bread, Jackie Mason, Julio Iglesias, Bananarama, A-ha, The Golden Girls, Bob Monkhouse, Russ Abbot, Bella Emberg, Paul Daniels & Debbie McGee, Rick Astley, Michael Feinstein.
RVP 60
1987 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Anthony Newley, The Alan Harding Dancers, Jessica Martin, Gary Wilmot, Peter Goodwright, Hilary O'Neil, Allan Stewart, Bernie Winters, Leslie Crowther, George Carl, Bobby Davro, Johnny Logan, Les Dawson, Dolores Gray, Cannon & Ball, Eartha Kitt, Hale & Pace, James Galway, Jimmy Tarbuck, Shirley Bassey, Five Star, Ronn Lucas, Les Misérables, Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, Mel Tormé, George Shearing, Michael Barrymore, Sarah Brightman, Mike Yarwood, Johnnie Ray, Rosemary Clooney, Harry Secombe, Tom Jones, Vladimir Orchinikov, Evelyn Glennie, Michael Mcguire, Alan Brind.
RVP 59
1986 LONDON, Theatre Royal Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: Alan Randall, Su Pollard & Ruth Madoc, Kit & The Widow, Marti Webb, Bob Monkhouse, Marti Caine, Angela Rippon, Petula Clark, Rory Bremner, Peking Opera, Victoria Wood, The Bluebells, Carolyn Pickles, Stéphane Grappelli, Nana Mouskouri, Victor Borge, Frank Carson, Valerie Masterson, Max Bygraves, Lulu, Michael Davis, Ronnie Corbett, Peter Ustinov, Paul Nicholas, Lesley Collier, Stephen Jefferies, Peggy Spencer, Latin American Formation Team, Cyd Charisse, Simon Howe, Tyne Daly, Sharon Gless, Ken Dodd, Huddersfield Choral Society, Val Doonican, Gloria Hunniford, Aled Jones, Paul McCartney, Nicholas Parsons, Paul Daniels.
RVP 58
1985 LONDON, Theatre Royal Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Babes on Broadway, Show Boat, Gary Wilmot, The Screen Goddesses, Rolf Harris, Jean Simmons, Guys and Dolls, On the Town, Triplets, 42nd Street, Doreen Wells & Tudor Davies, Ron Moody, Sarah Brightman, Norman Wisdom, Su Pollard, Joan Collins, Roni Page, Steve Devereaux, Celeste Holm & Paul Nicholas, Frankie Vaughan & Barbara King, Martin Shaw & Simon Bowman, Liz Robertson, Gigi, Dennis Waterman & Maureen Lipman, José Carreras, Elisabeth Welch.
RVP 57
1984 LONDON, Victoria Palace Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER & THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES
Included: Leslie Crowther, Billy Dainty, Paul Nicholas, Bernie Winters, Jimmy Cricket, The Dancers, Mr Magoo, Brian Andro, Stuart Fell, The Acrobats, Anthony Gatto, Keith Harris, Denis Norden, The Bell Ringers, Les Dennis & Dustin Gee, Angharad Rees, Matthew Kelly, Charlie Drake, Russell Grant, Frank Finlay, Simon Callow, Eileen Atkins, Jean Marsh, Harvey and the Wallbangers, Paul Eddington, The Tillers, Ronnie Corbett, On Your Toes, Roy Hudd, Terry Wogan, James Galway, Henry Mancini, Bill Owen, Peter Sallis, Brian Wilde, David Jacobs, Howard Keel, Paul Daniels, The Cast of Me and My Girl.
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ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 37
PREVIOUS PERFORMANCES RVP 56
1983 LONDON, Theatre Royal Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Included: Scott Sherrin, Gillian Gregory, Gene Kelly, Royal Ballet School, Bonnie Langford, The Frank & Kay Mercer Latin American Formation Team, The Jukebox Company, Steve Merritt, Michael Barrymore, Wayne Sleep, Graham Fletcher, Fred Evans, Tony Kemp, Sarah Kennedy, Billy Dainty, Monica Mason, Merle Park and David Wall, Kelly Monteith, Sheila White, Grace Kennedy, Clarke Peters, Finola Hughes, The Roly Polys, Claude Paul Henry, Sheila O'Neill, Gemma Craven, James Smillie, Julia McKenzie, Twiggy, Tommy Tune, Diana Moran, The British Amateur Gymnastics Team, Rock Steady Crew, George Carl, The Dancin' Company, Natalia Makarova, Anthony Dowell, Les Dawson.
RVP 55
1982 LONDON, Theatre Royal
Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: Richard Harris, Chris Power & Howard Keel, Helen Gelzer, Anna Dawson, Tony Adams, The Pirates of Penzance, The Pirate King, Roy Hudd, Christopher Timothy, Joe Black, Peter Glaze, Tommy Godfrey, Billy Gray, Lesley Collier, David Wall, Richard Stilgoe, Don Smoothey, Ami McDonald, Ruth Madoc, Isla St Clair, Kenneth Connor, Leslie Crowther, Billy Dainty, John Inman, Pete Murray, Bernie Winters, Karen Kay, Suzanne Danielle, Joyce Blair, John Hanson, Gloria Hunniford, Jan Leeming, Esther Rantzen, Vince Hill, Diane Langton, Lorna Dallas, Dennis Waterman, Liz Robertson, Topol, Wall Street Crash, Anton Rodgers, Bonnie Langford, Sylvester McCoy, Michael Praed, Chris Langham, Peter Skellern, Jim Casey, Roy Castle, Ele Woods, George Cole, Pamela Stephenson, Tim Curry, Sheena Easton, Moira Anderson, Bucks Fizz, Victor Spinetti, Amanda Redman, Robert Longden, Jack Jones, Angela Rippon, Millicent Martin, Ethel Merman.
RVP 54
1981 LONDON, Theatre Royal Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Included: Thais Clark, Vernel Bagneris, Ylvia Williams, Topsy Chapman, Patti Boulaye, Pearly Gates, Precious Wilson, The Clark Brothers, Kenny Lynch, Jim Davidson, Lenny Henry, Itzhak Perlman, John Inman, Tim Rice, Lonnie Donegan, Marty Wilde, Acker Bilk, The Searchers, Dickie Henderson, Donovan, Lulu, Suzanne Danielle, Alvin Stardust, Adam & The Ants, The Shadows, Cliff Richard, Cambridge Buskers, Anita Harris, Jimmy Tarbuck, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Stephanie Lawrence, Julian Lloyd Webber, Elaine Paige, Mireille Mathieu.
RVP 53
1980 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: The Joe Loss Orchestra, Una Stubbs and Lionel Blair, Roy Hudd, Arthur Askey, Chesney Allen & Billy Dainty, Charlie Chester, Charlie Drake, Arthur English, Cyril Fletcher, Richard Murdoch, Sandy Powell, Tommy Trinder, Ben Warriss, Paul Squires, Bruce Forsyth, Grace Kennedy, Sheena Easton, Rowan Atkinson, Wall Street Crash, Harry Worth, Cleo Laine, Harry Mancini, Peggy Lee, Victor Borge, Sammy Davis, Jr., Larry Hagman, Danny Kaye, Aretha Franklin.
RVP 52
1979 LONDON, Theatre Royal Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Included: Elaine Stritch, Jim Davidson, James Galway, Red Buttons, Ned Sherrin, Millicent Martin, David Kernan, Julia McKenzie, Marti Caine, Elisabeth Welch, Dr Evadne Hinge & Dame Hilda Bracket, Noel Edmonds, Amii Stewart, Boney M., Bill Haley & His Comets, Bernie Clifton, Vladimir Vasiliev & Ekaterina Maximova, Pas de deux, Les Dawson, Yul Brynner and Virginia McKenna, Maize Williams, Lis Mitchell, Marcia Barrett, Bobby Farrell.
RVP 51
1978 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: Arthur Askey, Lionel Blair, Leslie Crowther, Bobby Crush, Charlie Drake, Cyril Fletcher, Rolf Harris, John Inman, David Nixon, Beverley Sisters, Marti Caine, Wendy Craig, Sandra Dickinson, Esther Rantzen, Dilys Watling, June Whitfield, Pepe and his friends, Paul Daniels, Harry Secombe, The King Sisters, Mary O'Hara, Showaddywaddy, Danny La Rue, The Krankies, Andy Stewart, Moira Anderson, Scottish Ballet, National Youth Jazz Orchestra, Acker Bilk, Kenny Ball, Max Bygraves, The Kaye Sisters, The Nolan Sisters, Anne Shelton, Wayne Sleep, Lesley Collier, Diane Langton, Max Boyce.
RVP 50
1977 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Bob Hope, Julie Andrews, Paul Anka, Pam Ayres, Harry Belafonte, Brotherhood of Man, Tommy Cooper, Alan King, Cleo Laine and Johnny Dankworth, John Williams, Little and Large, Shirley MacLaine, Jim Henson's Muppets, Rudolf Nureyev, Jack Parnell.
RVP 49
1976 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: Max Bygraves, Lionel Blair, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Los Reales Del Paraguay, Roger De Courcey, Lena Zavaroni, Arthur Mitchell, Gilbert Bécaud, Tom O'Connor, Dawson Chance, Wayne King, Mike Yarwood, Shirley Bassey.
RVP 48
1975 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Bruce Forsyth, KwaZulu, Kris Kemo, Dad's Army, Count Basie Orchestra, Larry Parker, Michael Crawford and the cast of Billy, Dukes & Lee, Ruth Welting, Telly Savalas, Charles Aznavour, Rhos Male Voice Choir, Harry Secombe, Vera Lynn.
RVP 47
1974 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: Noele Gordon, A Salute to Vaudeville, Ted Rogers, The Hungarian State Dance Company, Billy Dainty, Josephine Baker, Paul Melba, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Paper Lace, George Carl, Roy Castle, Perry Como, Jack Parnell & His Orchestra.
RVP 46
1973 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Dougie Squires' Second Generation, Dick Emery, Francis Van Dyke, Cliff Richard, Phillipe Genty & Company, Les Dawson, Rudolf Nureyev, Lynn Seymour, José Luis Moreno, Peters & Lee, Ronnie Corbett, Duke Ellington & His Orchestra, Nana Mouskouri.
RVP 45
1972 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: Los Diablos Del Bombo, Dickie Henderson, Mike Yarwood, Elton John, Danny La Rue, Trio Hoganas, Rod Hull & Emu, The Jackson 5, Jack Jones, Ken Dodd, Warren Mitchell, Tony Booth, Una Stubbs, Dandy Nichols, Carol Channing, Liberace.
RVP 44
1971 LONDON, Palladiumf Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II Included: The Young Generation, The Villams, Bruce Forsyth, Dailey and Wayne, The Stupids, Lovelace Watkins, Norman Collier, Hughie Green, The Little Angels of Korea, Jack Parnell & His Orchestra, The New Seekers, The New Dollys, Ken Goodwin, Sacha Distel, Stéphane Grappelli, Tommy Cooper, Shirley Bassey.
RVP 43
1970 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: The Pamela Devis Dancers, Max Bygraves, Peter Noone & Herman's Hermits, Freddie Starr, Rostal and Schaefer, Sandy Powell, Kay White, Max Again, Bob Dixon, Dionne Warwick, The Doriss Girls, The Syd Lawrence Orchestra, Des O'Connor, Leslie Crowther, The Black light theatre of Prague, Caterina Valente, Marty Feldman, Andy Williams.
RVP 42
1969 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Des O'Connor, The Veterans, Roy Castle, Cilla Black, Danny La Rue, Shari Lewis, Harry Secombe, Ginger Rogers, Buddy Rich, Moira Anderson, Scènes de ballet, Ronnie Corbett, Mireille Mathieu, Herb Alpert's Tijuana Brass, Frankie Howerd, Johnnie Spence and his Orchestra, The Mike Sammes Singers, Tom Jones.
RVP 41
1968 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER, PRINCE CHARLES, PRINCESS ANNE, PRINCESS MARGARET & THE EARL OF SNOWDON
Included: Aimi MacDonald & Lionel Blair, Arthur Askey, Valente Valente, Morecambe & Wise, Sacha Distel, Czechoslavakian State Song & Dance Ensemble, Ted Rogers, Manitas de Plata & Company, Engelbert Humperdinck, Des O'Connor, Agnes O'Connell's London Irish Girl Pipers, Val Doonican, Petula Clark, Ron Moody, Andre Tahon & Company, Diana Ross & The Supremes.
PAGE 38 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
RVP 40
1967 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: The Bluebell Girls, Tanya, Rolf Harris, Lulu, Sandie Shaw, Val Doonican, Tommy Cooper, Romanian National Dance Company & Orchestra, The Rockin' Berries, Ken Dodd, Vikki Carr, Mireille Mathieu, Dickie Henderson, Tom Jones, Bob Hope.
RVP 39
1966 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: The Bachelors, Bal Caron Trio, Gilbert Bécaud, The World Cup winning England football team, Sammy Davis, Jr., Jack Douglas, Hugh Forgie, Christopher Gable, Nadia Nerina, Juliette Gréco, Des O'Connor, Frankie Howerd, Jerry Lewis, Kenneth McKellar, Henry Mancini, Marvo & Dolores, Matt Monro, Wayne Newton, The Pietro Brothers, Gene Pitney, The Seekers, Tommy Steele.
RVP 38
1965 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Shirley Bassey, Tony Bennett, Jack Benny, Max Bygraves, The Carmenas, The Dave Clark Five, Peter Cook, Ken Dodd, Johnny Hallyday, Arthur Haynes, Hope and Keen, Frank Ifield, The Kaye Sisters, Neville King, Spike Milligan, Dudley Moore, Peter, Paul & Mary, Peter Sellers, Dusty Springfield, Sylvie Vartan.
RVP 37
1964 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Included: The John Tiller Girls, Tommy Cooper, The Bachelors, Gil Dova, Cilla Black, Millicent Martin, Kathy Kirby, Brenda Lee, Dennis Spicer, Morecambe & Wise, Gracie Fields, The Moiseyev Dance Company, David Jacobs, Ralph Reader's Gang Show, Jimmy Tarbuck, Cliff Richard & The Shadows, Bob Newhart, Lena Horne with the Chico Hamilton Quartette.
RVP 36
1963 LONDON, Prince of Wales Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER & HER ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCESS MARGARET
Included: The Clark Brothers, The Beatles, Luis Alberto del Paraná, Los Paraguayos, Charlie Drake, Tessa Davees & The Eight Charlies, Susan Maughan, Dickie Henderson, Francis Brunn, Buddy Greco, Nadia Nerina, Dickie Henderson, The Sleeping Beauty Cast, Joe Loss & His Orchestra, Larry Gretton, Ross MacManus, Rose Brennan, The Billy Petch Dancers, Wilfrid Brambell, Harry H. Corbett, Pinky & Perky, Jan & Vlasta Dalibor, Eric Sykes, Hattie Jacques, Michael Flanders, Donald Swann, Marlene Dietrich, Tommy Steele & West End Half a Sixpence Cast, Harry Secombe & Pickwick Cast, Marlene Dietrich with Bur Bacharac.
RVP 35
1962 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: The Black and White Minstrels, Norman Vaughan, Rudy Cardenas, Rosemary Clooney, Dickie Henderson, Frank Ifield, Eartha Kitt, Cleo Laine, Johnny Dankworth, Cliff Richard & The Shadows, Harry Secombe, Andy Stewart, Sophie Tucker, Mike & Bernie Winters Bob Hope with Edie Adams.
RVP 34
1961 LONDON, Prince of Wales Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: Acker Bilk, Kenny Ball & The Temperance Seven, Shirley Bassey, Jack Benny, George Burns, Lionel Blair, Max Bygraves, Maurice Chevalier, The Crazy Gang, Sammy Davis, Jr., Arthur Haynes, Bruce Forsyth, The McGuire Sisters, Morecambe and Wise, Nina & Frederik, Andy Stewart, Frankie Vaughan.
RVP 33
1960 LONDON, Victoria Palace Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Max Bygraves, Nat King Cole, Russ Conway, Billy Cotton & His Band, The Crazy Gang, Sonia Rees, Lonnie Donegan, Diana Dors, Jimmy Edwards, Adam Faith, Bruce Forsyth, Bud Flanagan, Benny Hill, Robert Horton, Frankie Howerd, Hattie Jacques, Liberace, Vera Lynn, Bob Monkhouse, Cliff Richard & The Shadows, Tiller Girls, Norman Wisdom, Harry Worth, Sammy Davis, Jr.
RVP 32
1959 MANCHESTER, Palace Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
Included: Paddy Glyn, The Eight Mitchell Singers, The 20 John Tiller Girls, The Pietro Brothers, Marty Wilde, Cliff Richard, Harry Robinson, Lord Rockingham's XI, Cherry Wainer, Benny Hill, Al Read with Jimmy Clitheroe, Tommy Trinder, Jean Louis Bert and Ilonka, The Dior Dancers, Belinda Wright, Jelke Yuresha, Jimmy Jewel and Ben Warriss, Roy Castle, BBC Northern Dance Orchestra with Sheila Buxton, Russ Conway, Ronnie Hilton, Jill Day, Marion Ryan, Dickie Henderson, Dora Bryan, Aileen Cochrane, Anne Shelton, Terry Wilson, Blackpool Tower Ballroom Children’s Ballet, Michael Medwin, Alfie Bass, Bill Fraser, Ted Lune, Norman Rossington, Liberace, Arthur Askey, The Hallé Orchestra conducted by Sir John Barbirolli, Tommy Trindor.
RVP 31
1958 LONDON, Coliseum Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Talk of the Town Girls and Boys, The Stargazers, Yana and Max Bygraves, Shirley Ambrose, Margo Mitchell, Dawn Hughes, Terry James, Mary Mitchell, Gloria Kaye, Judith Harvey, Fay Laurie, Jane Burton, Christine Pocket, Jacqueline Warrell, Helen Wright, Gloria Davidson, Doreen Hermitage, Joan Jemison, Paddy James, Joyce White, Ruth Lawson, Roy Genson, Robert Lamont, Ray Tanva, Ian Kaye, Bill Harvey, Willie Martin, Karl Morley, Boyd MacKenzie, Peter Elliott, Paul Christian, The King Brothers, The Mudlarks, Beverley Sisters, The Charlivels, Tony Hancock, Cyril Stapleton & His Show Band, Frankie Vaughan, Bruce Forsyth, Bernard Bresslaw, Antonio and his Spanish Ballet Company, Roy Castle, Harry Secombe, Mantovani, Harry Worth, Lynette Ray, Hattie Jacques, Max Russell, G. H. Elliott, Hetty King, The George Carden Dancers,The George Mitchell Singers, The Ford Motor Works Military Band, The Dior Dancers, Victor Silvester and his Ballroom Orchestra, The Mecca Formation Dancers, David Nixon, Charlie Drake, Pat Boone, Mantovani, Adele Leigh, Eartha Kitt, Kenneth More, Norman Wisdom, Jerry Desmonde, Pip Hinton, Marion Grimaldi, Pamela Gale, Felix Felton, Terence Cooper, June Bronhill, Thomas Round, Rex Harrison, Julie Andrews, Stanley Holloway.
RVP 30
1957 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: The Kaye Sisters, Bob Monkhouse, Max Bygraves, The George Carden Dancers, The George Mitchell Singers, The Goofers, Jimmy Logan, Harry Secombe with the Morriston Orpheus Choir, The Crazy Gang, Leo De Lyon, Gracie Fields, Dickie Henderson, Count Basie & His Orchestra, Ralph Reader & his Gang Show, Judy Garland, Jimmy Brooks, Bud Flanagan, Ben Lyon, Jerry Desmonde, Alfred Marks, Brian Reece, Mario Lanza, Norrie Paramor's Big Ben Banjo Band, Ronnie Hilton, Dickie Valentine, Malcolm Vaughan, Teddy Johnson, Dennis Lotis, Frankie Vaughan, David Whitfield, Herschel Henlere, Arthur Askey & Vera Lynn, Alicia Markova, Alma Cogan, The John Tiller Girls, Tommy Cooper, Winifred Atwell, Tommy Steele & His Steelmen.
RVP 29
1955 LONDON, Victoria Palace Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Tommy Trinder, Latona, Graham and Chandel, The Victoria Palace Boys and Girls, Dave King and Julia Channing, The Crazy Gang, Ruby Murray, Benny Hill with Olivia Dale, Jeremy Hawk and Ronnie Brody, Patricia Kirkwood with Robert Beatty, Douglas Byng, George Carden, Walter Crisham, John Gregson, Bobby Howes, Hugh McDermott, Terence Morgan and Brian Reece, Cyril Stapleton with the BBC Show Band and The Stargazers, Lena Horne, John Warner, Eleanor Drew, Dorothy Reynolds, Newton Blick, Yvonne Coulette, James Cairncross, Michael Meacham, Christine Finn, Michael Aldridge, Pat Heywood, Joe Greig, Bob Harris, Johnnie Ray, Robert Dhery, Colette Brosset, Jacques Legras, Christian Duvalein, Pierre Olaf and Company, Alfred Drake, George Jessel, Doretta Morrow and Company, Leslie Henson, Jimmy Edwards, Richard Attenborough, Diana Dors, Edmund Willard, Bruce Selton, Emrys Jones, Lauri Lupino Lane, The Chinese Classical Theatre Company, Moscow State Folk Dance Company, Brian Reece.
continued
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ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 39
PREVIOUS PERFORMANCES RVP 28
1955 BLACKPOOL, Opera House Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Reginald Dixon, Lupino Lane, George Truzzi, Peter Glaze, Kenneth Sandford, Pamela Bromley, Vera Day, The John Tiller Girls, The Victoria Palace Girls & Boys, Kathryn Moore, The Flying De Pauls, The Barbour Brothers & Jean, The Amandis, The Crazy Gang, Morecambe and Wise, Bill Waddington, Josephine Anne, The Showgirls, Arthur Askey, Geraldo and his Orchestra, Jewel and Warriss, Littlewoods Girls Choir, Joan Regan, Alma Cogan, Five Smith Brothers, George Formby, 1st Battalion The Liverpool Scottish, Beryl Grey with John Field, Jack Tripp with the John Tiller Girls, children from the Blackpool Tower Ballet, Charlie Cairoli with Paul, Wilfred & Mabel (Pickles), Albert Modley, Flanagan and Allen, Eddie Fisher with the BBC Northern Orchestra, Al Read.
RVP 27
1954 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: Fay Lenore and the Palladium Boys & Girls, Schaller Brothers, George Mitchell Choir, Jimmy Wheeler, Eric Robinson Orchestra & Singers, Eddie Calvert, Joan Turner, Richard Hearne, Howard Keel, Chesney Allen, Arthur Askey, Max Bygraves, Bud Flanagan, Billy Russell, Donald B. Stewart, Brian Reece, Harry Green, Katie Boyle, Jack Hylton, Al Read, Norman Wisdom, Gillian Moran, Herbert Hare, Florence & Frederic, The Crazy Gang with Paul Cutts & Shirley Eaton, David Whitfield, Frankie Laine, Jack Parnell & His Orchestra, Ted Heath and his music, Dawn White and her Glamazons, John Tiller Girls, Rudy Horn, Noël Coward, Diana Churchill, Jack Buchanan, Joan Sims, Frankie Howerd, Gladys Cooper, Binnie Hale, Peter Sellers, Donald Wolfit, Hastings Girls Choir, Elsie Randolph, Thora Hird, Leslie Henson, Dick Bentley, Michael Denison, Nigel Patrick, Thorley Walters, Anthony Steel, Brian Reece, Walter Crisham, Bruce Trent, Peggy Cummins, Shirley Eaton, Dulcie Gray, Shani Wallis, Bob Hope with Moira Lister, Jerry Desmonde & the Hope Repertory Company.
RVP 26
1953 LONDON, Coliseum Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II, HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH & PRINCESS MARGARET
Included: Peter Knight's Merry Makers, Harry Dawson, Jean Campbell, Pearl Carr, Dick James, Mackenzie Reid and Dorothy Elizabeth Webb, Alfred Marks, Edmund Hockridge, Tommy Cooper, Eve Boswell, Jack Warner, Stubby Kaye with members of The Cast of Guys and Dolls, Jo, Jac & Joni, Anne Shelton, Max Bygraves, Sheila O'Neill & Veit Bethke, Danya and Alvarez, Gloria Nord, Len Liggett and Pam Murray with members from the Corps de Ballet and the Empire Pool Festival Choir, John Tiller Girls, Ethel Revnell, Henry Cotton, Jimmy James, Ronnie Ronalde, Vivian Blaine, Jimmy Edwards, Eamonn Andrews.
RVP 25
1952 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Included: The Victoria Palace Tiller Girls, The Three Barbour Brothers, Medlock and Marlowe, Crompton, Three Monarchs, Billy Cotton and his Band, Norman Wisdom, Winifred Atwell, Vic Oliver, Beverley Sisters, Deep River Boys, Billie Worth, Jeff Warren, Donald Burr, The Crazy Gang, Gracie Fields with the Ilford Girls Choir and the George Carden Ensemble, Warren, Latona and Sparks, Rob Murray, Terry-Thomas, Gerry Brereton, John Ellison, George Cameron, Ted Ray, Beniamino Gigli, Arthur Askey, Max Bygraves, Zoe Gail, Reginald Dixon, Patricia Kirkwood, Jimmy Edwards, Jack Jackson, Vera Lynn, Jewel & Warriss, Josef Locke, Joy Nichols, Fred Russell, Maurice Chevalier, Ian Wallace, The Band of the Coldstream Guards, Tony Hancock.
RVP 24
1951 LONDON, Victoria Palace Held in the presence of HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II & PRINCESS MARGARET
Included: The Gang and 'Monsewer' Eddie Gray, The Cavendish Singers, The John Tiller Girls, Erica Yorke, The Victoria Palace Girls, The Marie De Vere Dancers, Vera Lynn, Harry Secombe, The Wiere Brothers, Stanley Black and the Dance Orchestra, Tony Fayne, David Evans, Richard Murdoch, Kenneth Horne, Arthur English, Sally Ann Howes, Jimmy Edwards, Florence Desmond, Norman Evans, Alan and Blanche Lund, Pearl Primus and her Company, Hoops - The Boys, Joaquin Pérez Fernandes and his Latin American Company, The Mary De Vere Dancers, Johnny Hutch and the Seven Volants, Sam Browne and his Singers, The Keyboard Quintette, Carroll Gibbons, Billy Thorburn, Ivor Moreton & Davy Kaye, Charlie Kunz, Patricia Morison, Barbara Bruce, Nervo and Knox, Naughton and Gold, Bud Flanagan, Miklos Gafni, Vera Lynn and Michael Dalton, Frances Day, Florence Desmond, Sally Ann Howes, Adelaide Hall, Sylvia Peters, Carole Lynne, Valerie Tandy, Anona Winn, Chesney Allen, Jimmy Gold, Gracie Fields, George Mitchell Choir, Jack Radcliffe, Cicely Courtneidge, Flanagan & Allen.
RVP 23
1950 LONDON, Victoria Palladium Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE VI & HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH
Included: Tommy Trinder, Sheila Matthews, The 20 John Tiller Girls, The Three Bentley Sisters, The Debonairs, Terrys Juveniles, Norman & Ladd, Max Bygraves, Billy Cotton & His Band, Frankie Howerd, The Five Smith Brothers, Kaye Ballard, Helen Gallagher, Carole Lynne, Allan Jones, The Merry Macs, Gracie Fields, The George Mitchell Glee Club, Jonathan Lucas, David Lober, Donald Peers, Jack Benny, Dinah Shore, Binnie Hale, Nat Jackley, Naughton & Gold, Max Wall, Nervo & Knox, Max Miller, Flanagan and Allen, The Band that Jack Built, Bud Flanagan.
RVP 22
1949 LONDON, Coliseum Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE VI & HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH, PRINCESS ELIZABETH & PRINCESS MARGARET
Included: John Sanger, Arthur Bell, Eric Coates, Phil Parke, Johnny Lockwood, Les Charlivels, Joy Nichols, Michael Bentine, Bill Johnson, Peter Cavanagh, Marilyn Hightower, Elsa & Waldo, Peggy Ryan and Ray McDonald, The Tiller Girls, Reginald Dixon, Band of the Royal Marines, Harvey, The Seven Ashtons, Wilfred Pickles, Dolores Gray, Borrah Minnevitch's Harmonica Rascals featuring Johnny Puleo, Maurice Chevalier, Noele Gordon, Ted Ray.
RVP 21
1948 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE VI & HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH
Included: The Blackpool Tower Circusettes, The Cromwells, Kirsta and Kristel, The Myrons, Warren Latona and Sparks, Charlie Chester and his Radio Gang, Daphne Kiernander, Sky High Corps De Ballet, Jayne and Adam Di Gatano, The Colstons, Nicholas Brothers, The 24 John Tiller Girls, Ted Ray, George and Bert Bernard, Stewart McPherson, Randolph Sutton, Nellie Wallace, Billy Danvers, Ella Shields, Talbot O'Farrell, Gertie Gitana, G. H. Elliott, Ted Heath and his Band, Derek Roy, The Radio Revellers, The Melachrino Strings, Julie Andrews, The Luton Choir Girls, The Great Alexander Troupe, Arthur Askey, Buster Shaver and his trio of Lilliputians, The Crazy Gang, Danny Kaye, The Skyrockets Orchestra.
RVP 20
1947 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE VI & HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH, PRINCESS ELIZABETH & PRINCESS MARGARET
Included: Hy Hazell, The Alec Thomas Quartet, Marilyn Hightower, Three Shades, Valerie Tandy, Bobbie Tranter, Tony Hulley, The Three Astaires, Hortobagyi Troupe, Billy Russell, Wilson, Keppel and Betty, Norman Evans, Borrah Minnevitch's Harmonica Rascals, Mervyn Saunders, Mona & Oliver & The Girls, Wally Boag, Bud Flanagan, Jimmy Nervo, Teddy Knox, Charlie Naughton, Jimmy Gold, Frank Holloway, Willie Carlisle, Freddie Malcom, Jack Durrant, Robert Wilson, The Dagenham Piper Girls, Vic & Joe Crastonian, James Currie's Water Spectacle, Alan Bailey, Terri Carol, Cynthia & Gladys, The Three Garcias, Levanda, Marie Louise, Mariora, Olga Varona, Eva May Wong, Bobbie Kimber, Dolores Gray & Bill Johnson, The Zoris, Tommy Trinder, Gracie Fields, Laurel & Hardy.
RVP 19
1946 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE VI & HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH
Included: From High Time - The Girls, Tony Hulley, Barbara Bentham, Brent Fields, Billy Castle, Bobby Tranter and Mary Naylor, The Cairoli Brothers, Nat Jackley with Harry Moreny, Dick Beamish, Arthur Vollum, Sammy Curtis, Bob Bromley and his puppets, Terry-Thomas Dance Ensemble with Alan & Blanche Lund, Gil Johnson, The Three Ross Sisters, Halama and Konarski, The Cabana Accordion Six, Nat Mills & Bobby, Robert Lamouret, Arthur Askey, Harry Lester & His Hayseeds, Tessie O'Shea, Charlie Chester, Dick Henderson, Jimmy Jewel, Charlie Naughton, Jimmy Gold, Eddie Gray, El Grenadas and Peter, Jack Jackie, Koba and Kalee, Reggie Redcliffe, Rene Strange, Henri Vadden, Sid Field with Jerry Desmonde, Alfie Dean, The Wallabies and the Palladium Boys & Girls, Ben Warriss, Marianne Lincoln, Oscar Natzka, Band of the Training Ship.
RVP 18
1945 LONDON, Coliseum Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE VI & HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH
Included: Roy Mitchell, Jill Manners, The Nine Avalons, Jules Adrian, Grace Spero, Beryl Kaye, Vic Oliver, Maurice Colleano, George Doonan, Will Hay, Douglas Wakefield, Chuck O'Neil, Billy Nicholls, Peter Byrne, Michael Hunt, Billy Nelson, Roy Jeffries, Delya, Sid Field, Jerry Desmonde, Stella Moya, Denise Clifford, Wilson, Keppel & Betty, Webster Booth & Anne Ziegler, Tommy Trinder, Chappie D'Amato, Van Phillips, Reginald Burston.
RVP 17
1938 LONDON, Coliseum Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE VI & HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH
Included: The Crastonians, The Two Leslies, Murray and Mooney, Evelyn Laye, Renée Houston and Donald Stewart, Ken Davidson and Hugh Forgie, From Running Riot - Richard Hearne & Rosalind Atkinson, The Stuart Morgan Dancers with Lita D'Oray, Harold Hart, William Kat, Jack Payne's Orchestra, Peggy Cochrane, Mary Lee, Betty Kent, Biddy Barton, Teddy Foster, Ronnie Grearder, Rob Ashley, The Dagenham Girl Pipers, Three Aberdonians, Les Allen, Laurie Day, Roy Willis, Will Hatton, Ethel Manners, Elsie and Doris Waters, The John Tiller Girls, the cast of Me and My Girl (Lupino Lane, George Graves, Betty Frankiss and Teddy St. Denis), Jack Barty, George Carney, Claphan and Dwyer, Harry Champion, Kate Carney, Will Fyffe, Florrie Forde, Gaston and Andree, Tommy Handley, G. S. Melvin, Talbot O'Farrell, Gillie Porter, Harry Tate, Vesta Victoria, Bransby Williams, Anona Winn.
PAGE 40 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
RVP 16
1937 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE VI & HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH
Included: From London Rhapsody, Len Lewis, George Lane, Raymond Newell, Henry Carlisle, Serge Ganjou, Henry Carlisle, Mary Young, Rosarito, George Ganjou, The Gypsy Boys Band, Norman Evans, Florence Desmond, Señor Wences, George Formby, Cicely Courtneidge with the Harry Dennis Dance Sexette and the Sherman Fisher Girls, Max Miller, Jack La Vier, Ethel Revnell & Gracie West, Ralph Reader's Gang Show, The London Palladium Gang Show, Gracie Fields, Will Fyffe.
RVP 15
1935 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: Hannah Wyatt, Jeanne Devereaux, Nervo & Knox, Naughton & Gold, Flanagan and Allen, Ernie Gerrard, The Six Lias from round about Regent Street, The Diamond Brothers, Joe Jackson, Stanley Holloway, Anton Dolin, Jessie Matthews, J. Sherman Fisher's Palladium Girls, The Western Brothers, Harrison & Fisher, Myles Williams, The Harmony Revellers, Bea Hutten, Syd Railton, Del Foss, Boy Foy, Sandy Powell with Jimmy Fletcher & Joy Jeffries, Three Cossacks, Elsie Carlisle & Sam Browne, Will Mahoney, Arthur Reece, Kate Carney, Gus Elen, Florrie Forde, Harry Champion, Harry Roy & His Band.
RVP 14
1934 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: Kafka, Stanley and Mae Quartette, The Three Bonos, Frank Boston, J. Sherman Fisher's Palladium Girls, The Three Sailors, Arthur Lucan & Kitty McShane, Elsie & Doris Waters, Cedric Hardwicke, Osmund Wilson, Cicely Oates, George Robey, Henry Hall and the BBC Dance Orchestra, Jack Holland & June Hart, Murray & Mooney, George Clarke, Bert Platt, Alec Dane, Norah Dwyer, Billy Bennett, Jack Hylton & His band.
RVP 13
1933 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: The London Palladium Crazy Gang, J. Sherman Fisher's Palladium Girls, Omar, Billy Russell, Geraldo & His Tango Orchestra, Gaston & Andree, The Ganjou Brothers & Juanita Richards with Billy Hendrix, Aline Fournier and Vittorio Togo, Cardini, The Company, The Carlo Medini Six, Wilson, Keppel & Betty, William & Joe Mendel, Billy Bennett, Evelyn Laye, Jack Hobbs, Roy Fox & His band.
RVP 12
1932 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: Stetson, Christoper & Columbus, The Bells, Levanda and the Nine Diamonds, Billy Danvers, George Clarke with Madge Aubrey, Flanagan & Allen, Eugene's Magyar band, Jack Buchanan, Will Fyffe, Errol Addison, Iris Kirkwhite, Nervo & Knox, Naughton & Gold, J. Sherman Fisher's Palladium Girls, Lawrence Tiller Girls, G. S. Melvin, Jasper Maskelyne, Cicely Courtneidge, Jack Hylton & His band, Little Doreen, Harry Champion, Vesta Victoria, Fred Russell, Marie Kendall.
RVP 11
1931 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: P.L. Clark, Mona Grey, Norman Long, The Victoria Girls, Jack Edge, Debroy Somers & His band, Albert Whelan, Lily Morris, Georgie Wood, Dolly Harmer, Tom Blacklock, Mr. Flotsam and Mr. Jetsam, The Three Huxster Brothers.
RVP 10
1930 LONDON, Palladium Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: Sixteen Palladium Girls, Harry Prescott & His seven Hindustans, Tom Payne and Vera Hilliard, George Clarke, Julian Rose, De Groot with David Bor, Reginald Kilbey & Gillie Potter, Max Wall, Chilton & Thomas, Howell Harger, Naldi, Nervo & Knox, Coram, Odali Careno, Totò, Will Hay with Will Hay Jnr & H. Gordon Saunders, Gaston Palmer, Jack Payne & His BBC band.
RVP 09
1928 LONDON, Coliseum Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: Larry Kemble, Stanelli & Douglas, The Victoria Girls, A.C. Astor, Lillian Burgess, Noni & Horace, Victor Andre, Clarkson Rose, Anton Dolin, Gracie Fields, Will Hay, Jack Hylton & His band.
RVP 08
1927 LONDON, Victoria Palace Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: P.L. Clark, Mona Grey, Norman Long, The Victoria Girls, Jack Edge, Debroy Somers & His band, Albert Whelan, Lily Morris, Georgie Wood, Dolly Harmer, Tom Blacklock, Mr. Flotsam & Mr. Jetsam, The Three Huxster Brothers.
RVP 07
1926 LONDON, Alhambra Palace Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: The Twelve Famous Tiller Girls, Dick Henderson, Robb Wilton, Lillian Burgess, Jack Hylton & His famous band, Conn Kenna, Carr & Parr, Bransby Williams, The Houston Sisters, Billy Bennett, Rick Hayes.
RVP 06
1925 LONDON, Alhambra Palace Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: George Hurd, Mr & Mrs Tree, Will Hay, Ethel Hook, J. Milton Hayes, J.W. Jackson's Twelve English Dancers, G. H. Elliott, Will Fyffe, Nervo and Knox, Talbot O'Farrell, Harry Tate & Company.
RVP 05
1923 LONDON, Coliseum Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: Bobbie Hind & His all-British Sonara Band, Rupert Hazell, Katrina & Joan, The Griffith Brothers, The Samurai with Lola Karsavina, Sessue Hayakawa, Lewis Gilbert, Ann Trevor and Dora de Winton, Royal Albert Hall Orchestra, Brighter London with Billy Merson, Reg Sharland, Eddie Jaye, Bernard Dudley, Laddie Cliff & Rena Hall, Russian Blue Bird Players, Alfred Lester, Loie Fuller Band, Marimba Band, The Disorderly Room with Tom Walls, Ralph Lynn, Tommy Handley, Jamieson Dodd, Cecil Bainbridge & Fred Kemp, Louis Parker, Barclay Gammon.
RVP 04
1922 LONDON, Hippodrome Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V, HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY & HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN OF NORWAY
Included: The Flemings, Will Fyffe, Kharum, Du Calion, Lorna & Toots Pound, P. T. Selbit, Muriel George & Earnest Butcher, Tom Webster, Arthur Prince, Harry Weldon, Trix Sisters, The Mirthful Jovers.
RVP 03
1921 LONDON, Hippodrome Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V, HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: Frederick Sylvester & Co, Norah Blaney & Gwen Farrar, G. S. Melvin, Renee and Godfrey, Malcolm McEachern, Rebla, The Peep Show with Annie Croft, Reginald Sharland, Fred Allandale, Albert Darnley & Mary Gibbs, J. Milton Hayes, Billy Merson, The Five Petleys.
RVP 02
1919 LONDON, Coliseum Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: Sir Edward Elgar & His Orchestra, The Flying Banvards, Ernest Hastings, George Robey and Violet Loraine, Sam Barton, Arthur Prince, Harry Tate, Clarice Mayne, Grock, Du Calion, Ethel Hook.
RVP 01
1912 LONDON, Palace Theatre Held in the presence of HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
Included: George Robey, Arthur Prince, Pipifax and Penlo, Barclay Gammon, The Palace Girls, George H. Chirgwin, The Bogannys, Fanny Fields, Paul Cinquevalli, Harry Tate, Ida Crispi & Fred Farrn Vesta Tilley, La Pia, Little Tich, Alfred Lester, Clarice Mayne, Charles Aldrich, David Devant, Wilkie Bard, Harry Lauder, Cecilia Loftus.
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 41
THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY’S CHARITY
Patron: HM The Queen Hon. Life President: Laurie Mansfield Chairman: Giles Cooper Vice Chairman: Phil Dale Established 1908 · Registered Charity No. 206451
The Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund (EABF), also known as The Royal Variety Charity, helps out ‘behind the scenes’ to bring essential comfort and support to those who have dedicated their lives to the entertainment of others. WE ARE HERE TO HELP >> The public face of the EABF is Brinsworth House, a dual registered residential and nursing home in Twickenham. This beautiful Grade II listed building is a safe and secure home for elderly residents; our team of professional nursing staff and qualified healthcare assistants provide care and attention 24 hours a day to meet the residents’ needs. In addition, the EABF operates a nationwide Grant system for those who have fallen on hard times through illness, accident or misfortune; wherever they are based in the UK.
DONATE >> The Fund’s largest fundraising event remains the ever popular Royal Variety Performance. However, in these very difficult economic times, your donations and legacies are even more vital to us to ensure the continuation of our much valued work. Please give whatever you can, by visiting our website www.eabf.org.uk
CONTACT THE EABF >> Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund, Brinsworth House, 72 Staines Road, Twickenham TW2 5AL For all enquiries, donations or residential matters contact us: T 020 8898 8164 F 020 8894 0093 E enquiries@eabf.org.uk W www.eabf.org.uk
Celebrating over 100 years of care for members of the entertainment profession
The ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
2015
PRIORITY TICKETS FOR 2015 >> If you would like to be added to the EABF Mailing List to be kept up-to-date with all our news, and also to receive a priority ticket booking form for next year’s Royal Variety Performance, please email your full name and home address to: MailingList@eabf.org.uk
DONATIONS >> Members of the entertainment profession have given us so very much enjoyment over so many years; many working tirelessly throughout their careers raising funds for others, so please give whatever you can back to them. Every pound is so gratefully welcomed and will help us to ensure that we maintain a high standard of care for our many residents and dependents around the UK. You can make donations through our website at: www.eabf.org.uk/donate Thank you for your support
PAGE 42 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
PATRONS OF THE EABF The Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund (EABF) has been honoured with Royal Patronage from the reigning Monarch ever since 1921, when His Majesty King George V became the first Patron of the Variety Artistes' Benevolent Fund (the previous name of the EABF).
His Majesty King George V also decreed, in the same year, that the Royal Variety Performance would become an annual event, after the success of the two previous Royal shows in 1912 and 1919.
He added that the Monarch, or a senior member of the Royal Family, would attend an annual performance, in aid of Brinsworth House and the Fund, once a year thereafter, to demonstrate the family’s love and support for the entertainment industry and its associated charity.
Royal patronage has continued ever since, and the EABF is proud to also have had as its Patrons, His Majesty King George VI, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother & Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
1921 - 1936 HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE V & HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
1936 - 1952 HIS MAJESTY KING GEORGE VI
1936 - 2002
HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
1952 - Present HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 43
WISHING EVERYONE A VERY SUCCESSFUL EVENING AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM Suite 17 Adam House 7-10 Adam Street London WC2N 6AA T 020 7520 9411 E info@lmassocltd.com
2014
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
ITV STUDIOS IS PROUD TO PRESENT THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
LEE CONNOLLY Creative Director FIONA CLARK Executive Producer GLENN COOMBER Executive Producer RICHARD VALENTINE Director MARK WAGMAN Talent Executive LAURA GALLEN Assistant Producer CHRIS KEARSEY Assistant Producer JONATHAN FERNANDO Researcher AMANDA GEORGE Line Producer PETER BINGEMANN Production Designer DAVID ARCH Musical Director DAVE DAVEY Lighting Director KEVIN DUFF Sound Supervisor ANTHONY VAN LAAST Stage Director LINDA MARTIN Costume Designer NICHOLA BELLAMY Make-Up Supervisor
ITV STUDIOS
ENTERTAINMENT DEPARTMENT ITV Studios Entertainment Department is proud to produce The Royal Variety Performance 2014, and continue ITV’s long association with this prestigious event. The Entertainment Department produces around four hundred hours of programming a year for a range of terrestrial and multichannel broadcast networks. We specialise in mainstream, broad entertainment, and our output has recently included; Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! Surprise Surprise Sunday Night at the Palladium Keep It in the Family You've Been Framed The British Soap Awards The Olivier Awards Countdown University Challenge It'll Be Alright on the Night Tricked Jeremy Kyle Judge Rinder Who's Doing the Dishes The Royal Variety Performance will transmit on ITV in early December.
JEREMY TURNER OB Unit Manager ROB SARGENT Camera Supervisor
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 45
Presented annually in aid of the Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund Patron, Her Majesty The Queen
2 0 1 4
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
Staged in the presence of
His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge and
Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge
Executive Producers for the EABF Laurie Mansfield, Giles Cooper & Phil Dale Creative Director, ITV Studios Lee Connolly Executive Producers, ITV Studios Fiona Clark & Glenn Coomber Director, ITV Studios Richard Valentine
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 47
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
2014 ACT ONE AT A GLANCE NATIONAL ANTHEM
YOUR HOST:
ACT ONE
MICHAEL MCINTYRE
PAGE 48 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
BETTE MIDLER ENGLISH GENTS
(PART OF LA SOIRÉE)
SIMPLY RED JACK WHITEHALL DEMI LOVATO MCBUSTED STEPHEN MULHERN PUMEZA SARAH MILLICAN ED SHEERAN DAME SHIRLEY BASSEY INTERVAL OF 20 MINUTES
ACT ONE YOUR HOST
MICHAEL MCINTYRE M
ichael McIntyre is without doubt one of the UK’s biggest names in comedy. His spoton observational comedy and trademark ability to turn everyday situations into master-classes of human exasperation have struck chords with millions of fans, cementing him as one of the UK’s most loved comedy performers. Michael has released three best-selling DVDs; 2008’s ‘Live and Laughing’, ‘Hello Wembley’ – which in 2009 became the fastest-selling UK stand-up DVD of all time – and 2012’s ‘Showtime’, which beat its competitors to the Christmas number one spot in the charts. The past few years have been full of highlights for Michael, most recently his debut as a chat show host on ‘The Michael McIntyre Show’ and his international tour in 2013, which saw him achieve the feat of performing the largest ever comedy show on the continent of Africa. His UK & Ireland tour in 2012 saw Michael sell out a ten-night residency at London’s O2 Arena, the longest residency for a comedian at the venue. Michael managed to find the time during his hectic schedule to write his first autobiography, ‘Life & Laughing’, which shot to the top of the best-sellers list, whilst also becoming a member of the judging panel on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ and selling out a 71date arena tour in 2012, during which he performed to a staggering 650,000 people. The future continues to look bright for Michael, as he is soon to be embarking on his most ambitious tour to date with ‘Happy & Glorious’ and a 2014 Christmas television special for BBC One. “When The Queen FaceTimed me and asked me to host the Royal Variety Performance again I was utterly thrilled, especially when she told me it was to be in the presence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. I plan on wearing the dress Catherine wore at the St Andrew's University fashion show to guarantee I hold Prince William's attention throughout.” ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 49
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
2014
BETTE MIDLER One of the world's best-loved and most versatile entertainers, Bette Midler has garnered accolades in all quarters of show business. She's earned four Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year in 1989 for ‘Wind Beneath My Wings’, two Academy Award nominations, three Emmy Awards, one Tony Award and three Golden Globe Awards. Bette has recorded thirteen studio albums, sold 30 million albums worldwide and in November she will release her first album in eight years titled ‘It's The Girls!’ – a stunning album that reunites her with award-winning composer Marc Shaiman. ‘It’s The Girls!’ features fifteen new songs and spans seven decades of famous girl groups – covering everyone from ‘30s trio The Boswell Sisters to '90s R&B legends TLC. “As a little girl growing up with dreams of being a singer, I never imagined I would one day perform for members of the Royal Family. It’s quite an honour to take the stage before such a distinguished audience, and it’s a privilege to be included in a long list of talented artists who have been a part of the Royal Variety Performance for over a century.”
ENGLISH GENTS
(PART OF LA SOIRÉE)
The worldwide cult sensation La Soirée, which is currently taking up residency at the Southbank Centre’s Winter Festival, brings to the stage two of its finest acts. Hamish McCann and Denis Lock are The English Gents, two cordial gentlemen who perform inconceivable feats of acrobatic skill, strength and balance all whilst sporting the stiffest of British upper lips. Hamish will also be presenting his solo act, a one-of-a-kind pole routine that has gained a global reputation and is sure to leave you ‘feeling good’. “We’re thrilled to be performing at the Royal Variety Performance and we can’t wait to bare near-all for the Royal Family. We sincerely hope that they enjoy our terribly English act!” PAGE 50 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
ACT ONE SIMPLY RED
Simply Red are back! 2015 will be 30 years since the band's inception and Mick and the boys feel the perfect way to celebrate the anniversary is to hit the stage once more. Since their first gig in 1985, Simply Red have done it all and collected a host of accolades along the way. They have played over 1,100 shows to over 11 million people, notched up 60 million global sales, over 31 Top 40 UK singles, three BRIT Awards and a MOBO Special Achievement Award. Mick Hucknall will rejoin his band to celebrate all that they have achieved together. It’s been an incredible journey for Simply Red and one they plan to continue, starting here with one of the biggest nights in the calendar – the Royal Variety Performance. “We are so excited to be a part of this year’s Royal Variety Performance – I can’t think of a better place for Simply Red to begin our 30year anniversary celebration.”
JACK WHITEHALL Jack Whitehall first appeared on the Royal Variety Performance in 2010 and has since established himself as one of the country’s most exciting comedy talents. He has been a regular guest on some of the biggest comedy shows on television, including appearances on ‘Have I Got News For You’ and ‘Live at the Apollo’, and earlier in the year Jack performed his biggest tour to date ‘Jack Whitehall Gets Around’ to critical acclaim. Jack’s impressive CV also contains the sitcom ‘Bad Education’, which he currently writes and stars in, along with his own chat show ‘Backchat’ and his regular role as a panellist on the BAFTA award-winning ‘A League of Their Own’. At the 2013 British Comedy Awards, Jack had the honour of being crowned the ‘King of Comedy’ for the second consecutive year – highlighting his popularity with the British public and fellow comedians alike. "I am so excited to be taking to the stage once again at the Royal Variety Performance, it really is a tremendous honour." ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 51
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
2014
DEMI LOVATO Pop sensation Demi Lovato has achieved more than most during such a short space of time. At the age of 15 years old, she was a bona fide TV star after appearing in two hit US shows and by 2009 she had released two hugely successful solo albums. Demi’s popularity spread to Europe, where she scored two UK top ten singles in ‘Heart Attack’ and ‘Skyscraper’ and released a further two albums. ‘Demi’, her fourth album, was arguably her most successful, debuting at number one on the iTunes Chart and reaching the top ten in the UK Album Charts. Demi recently released the single version of ‘Let It Go’ from the soundtrack to the hit film ‘Frozen’. She is currently embarking on a huge world tour performing over 30 shows in no less than seven countries. “What an honour and privilege it is to perform at such a historic show. This will definitely be a memorable moment and what better way to celebrate than performing ‘Let It Go’ just in time for Christmas.”
MCBUSTED In 2013, pop history was made when McFly and Busted became the super group, McBusted. As separate acts they have already smashed numerous records – Busted's live shows were so huge that they achieved a record-breaking 11 consecutive nights at Wembley and McFly were the youngest band in history to hit number one with their debut album. The seeds of the super group were sewn when James Bourne of Busted played an impromptu acoustic set supporting McFly one night, with Busted then storming the stage at McFly’s 10th anniversary shows at the Royal Albert Hall in 2013 to perform ‘Year 3000’, ‘Air Hostess’ and ‘Shine A Light’. The result was pandemonium and before anyone could catch their breath, McBusted had formed and announced an arena tour of 35 dates, ending with a headline performance to 60,000 people in Hyde Park. James from Busted said: “It's a real honour to be playing at the Royal Variety Performance with McBusted. This marks my third decade in a row performing on the show - as I was here previously with the original cast of ‘Oliver’ in 1994 and with Busted in 2004. Let’s rock!” PAGE 52 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
ACT ONE
STEPHEN MULHERN
Stephen Mulhern is one of the most in demand television presenters around today with a string of smash hit television shows, including ‘Catchphrase’, ‘Big Star’s Little Star’ and ‘Britain’s Got More Talent.’ As well as his television appearances, Stephen is an experienced all-round entertainer having performed his very own magic and one-man variety show up and down the country for the past twelve years. His unique style of comedy and presentation has made him one of the best-loved presenters in the country having performed for some of the most famous celebrities in the world and even winning him a BAFTA award in the process. Simon Cowell has described what Stephen does as “amazing” and everyone agrees that he is a major star of family entertainment. “It's a dream come true for any performer to be invited onto one of the most prestigious variety shows in the world and for it to be at the Palladium this year makes it even more special.”
PUMEZA It’s 6,000 miles from Cape Town to London, but the distance Pumeza has travelled can't be measured in mere geography. Brought up in the townships of South Africa, before taking the opportunity to study in London, Pumeza has since launched a professional operatic career and signed with Decca Records. Pumeza has been a member of the Stuttgart State Opera for the past two seasons and 2014 has been an incredible year for the soprano - as she performed for a worldwide audience at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony in Glasgow and released her first solo album, ‘Voice of Hope’. “I have been honoured to be able to perform at some wonderful events this year and I am really delighted to bring opera to the Royal Variety Performance. To perform at this legendary event is a privilege and I am looking forward to it very much.” ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 53
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
2014
SARAH MILLICAN Sarah Millican first starred on The Royal Variety Performance in 2010 following two British Comedy Award nominations. Her natural gift for storytelling, effortless charm and razor-sharp wit mark Sarah as one of the most popular comedians in the country. In 2011, Sarah accomplished an amazing year, after being crowned ‘The Queen of Comedy’ at the British Comedy Awards and has since been nominated an incredible four more times for various awards, including two BAFTA nominations in 2013 and 2014 for her series ‘The Sarah Millican Television Programme’. Sarah‘s debut DVD, ‘Chatterbox Live’, is the biggest selling stand-up DVD ever by a female comedian and she has notched up countless TV appearances on hit shows, including ‘QI’, ‘Live at the Apollo’, ‘8 Out of 10 Cats’ and ‘The Graham Norton Show’. Sarah has completed three national tours to sell-out crowds and her most recent tour, ‘Home Bird’, is due to be released on DVD this month. “I’m thrilled to be doing the Royal Variety Performance for the second time. I think on the third time you win a member of the Royal Family!”
ED SHEERAN Ed Sheeran is a gifted guitarist, beatboxer and songwriter and has legions of fans all over the world that adore his eclectic blend of acoustic pop, folk and hip-hop. The British singer signed with Atlantic Records in 2011 and released his debut studio album, ‘+’, which went on to become a huge hit, selling over a million copies in the UK alone in its first six months, spending three weeks at number one and 138 weeks in the Top 40. In recent years, Ed’s highlights have included performing at both the Queen’s Jubilee and the Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics, having his song ‘I See Fire’ featured in the film ‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug’ and being nominated for four Brit Awards and three Grammy’s. He recently released his second album, ‘X’, which spent eight weeks at number one, further highlighting Ed’s rise to the top. PAGE 54 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
ACT ONE DAME SHIRLEY BASSEY
It’s time once again to celebrate the unique force of nature that is Dame Shirley Bassey. One of Britain’s greatest ever entertainers, Dame Shirley has enjoyed her love affair with the nation for more than 60 years. She has sung for presidents, queens and secret agents and packed out concert halls all over the world. From the fields of Glastonbury to the Hollywood glam of the Oscars, please welcome Dame Shirley who will be performing at the Royal Variety Performance for the ninth time. Every step of the way, she has radiated magnetic elegance and now the moment has come to bedazzle yet again. “My very first appearance on the Royal Variety Performance was in 1961 and with each show it just gets better and better. I'm excited and honoured to be a part of this year’s show and to share the stage with such great talent.”
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 55
PETER PRICHARD OBE CST.J T
his double page spread is included in this year’s Royal Variety Performance Programme as a tribute to one of the longest serving and dedicated members of the EABF, who sadly passed away on Saturday , 30th August 2014. Peter Prichard OBE was unique in that he served the EABF in a variety of roles over 30 years; as an Executive Committee Member, as Chairman of the Fund for over ten years, as a Trustee and as a Life Governor.
P
eter Prichard OBE is thought to have been the longest-serving show business agent in the UK and became known as “the last of the old-time agents”.
30.11.1932 – 30.08.2014 REST IN PEACE
Born in 1932 in Shepherds Bush, his career spanned more than 60 years, representing dozens of acts including Jimmy Tarbuck, Little and Large, Clive Dunn, Jack Douglas, Windsor Davies, Bernie Winters, Clement Freud, Max Wall and Bob Monkhouse.
After leaving school at the age of 15, Peter’s first job was at the Shepherds Bush Empire as a scene shifter, but by the age of 16 he was working as a trainee agent for Hyman Zahl. In 1955 he joined the much bigger Grade Organisation, working directly for Lew and Leslie Grade. In his 12 years with the Grades, Peter helped promote British concert appearances by Frank Sinatra, Danny Kaye, Bob Hope, the Beatles, Johnnie Ray, Mario Lanza and Bill Haley. In 1962 Peter was appointed European talent coordinator for The Ed Sullivan Show, the highest-rating television programme in America and in February that year, famously booked the Beatles on to the show, spearheading the British invasion of the US charts. As well as the Beatles, he introduced American audiences to the Rolling Stones, Matt Monro, Morecambe and Wise and Tommy Cooper. When Lew Grade was asked if his protégé Peter Prichard was Jewish, “Mr Lew” replied:PAGE 56 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
“No, but it doesn’t show in his work!” Peter always regarded this as his greatest professional compliment. In 1967 Peter left the Grades to form his own agency and became known as the most honest and trustworthy agent in the business; never asking any of his acts to sign contracts, but always preferring a simple handshake as a sign of his word. In 1997, Peter went into partnership with Laurie Mansfield, first at International Artistes and later working with Laurie at Laurie Mansfield Associates. Away from show business, he served as a special constable with the Met Police for many years, patrolling the Piccadilly Circus and Soho areas of London on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights; for which Peter was awarded three commendations for courage and devotion to duty. Until very recently, he also worked in Fort Myers in Florida, as a patrolling volunteer deputy Sheriff for 3 months of the year, a position which earned him a letter of thanks from President Barack Obama.
From left to right: Lord Delfont, Peter Prichard OBE & Laurie Mansfield
In 1989 he was appointed a Commander of the Most Venerable Order of St John of Jerusalem and in 1992 was awarded the OBE for services to charity and entertainment. PETER & THE EABF Peter always had a very strong sense of wanting to do the right thing in every situation and he’d never waiver from an inner sense of caring, honesty and principle and for over 30 years he was a driving force within the Entertainment Artistes Benevolent Fund. Peter also brought his show-business experience to this the EABF’s annual fundraiser, by serving with Life-President Laurie Mansfield, Chairman Giles Cooper and Trustee Phil Dale as one of the EABF’s Executive Producers of the Royal Variety Performance. His unwavering commitment to the Fund over such a long period provided the EABF with a foundation rock of direction, stability and principle and he will be sorely missed by us all.
MEMORIAL SERVICE All are welcome to a very special Memorial Service to celebrate the life of Peter Prichard OBE CSt.J on: Friday, November 21st 2014 @ 3pm at St Paul’s Church (aka The Actor’s Church) Bedford Street, Covent Garden London WC2E 9ED
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 57
BRINSWORTH HOUSE CARE FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY
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I
have now completed almost 18 months in post as Matron of Brinsworth House, and would like to begin by saying what a wonderful experience I have had. Not only with our beloved residents and staff, but also with Executive Committee members, Trustees, relatives of the residents and all involved in the day-to-day running of the Home. I would like to thank all the staff of Brinsworth House for giving me their help and support over the last year as I've modernised and made our operation more efficient. There have been a number of positive changes in 2014, some of which I would like to share with you in this souvenir brochure. My role as Matron, does not only make me responsible for the residents of Brinsworth House, but also for you as supporters of the EABF. I feel it is my responsibility to ensure that the money raised from ticket sales from tonight’s performance, is used
PAGE 58 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
wisely in delivering first rate care at Brinsworth and in implementing changes for the benefit of our residents. I therefore feel it is my duty to report back to you what your generosity has enabled us to do. The year has flown by since the last Royal Variety Performance with so many happenings in the world of Brinsworth House. December 2014 saw a wonderful Christmas Party and on Christmas Day we distributed presents to all the residents. We always try to encourage all of our residents to have as meaningful a life as possible and support is provided for each of them where necessary. Some of our residents have a very active life and are out and about on a daily basis, with their own front door key to come and go as they please. They always inform us where they are going whether it be shopping, a holiday, the theatre or visiting schools to tell their story. In cases where assistance is needed, a member of staff will happily accompany them. This year saw us welcome a brand new Activities Coordinator to Brinsworth House. A new role created to help those who need more assistance, to lead the fulfilling lives we so strongly wish them to have. This has been a real breath of fresh air for the Home as we have increased our activities from just a few per week, to a number throughout each day, with residents dipping in and out as they choose. In addition to our regular Quizzes, Music Sessions and Bingo, we are now offering a much wider variety of options including craft (such as knitting and jewellery making), food tastings, pamper afternoons, daily film showings and even simply ‘Coffee and a Chat’ sessions. We have been extending our activities out into our local community too with regular visits from our local Community Police Officer, local primary schools and we even had one resident take a visit to The Stoop – home of local Rugby team Harlequins. The residents once again enjoyed their annual boat trip down the River Thames this year and we also had our usual summer party with music from a variety of fantastic artists as well as from the local military school.
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>> ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 59
The thought of coming into a residential home can be quite a worrying one for individuals, their family and close friends alike. It is a huge decision that needs much careful consideration. If we are able to help you by answering any questions you may have on our admissions policy, funding opportunities or room availability then please do contact me (020 8898 8164) or email matron@eabf.org.uk). We usually follow up phone enquiries with an invite to visit Brinsworth. This enables prospective residents to gain a better understanding of what we are able to offer and to answer any other questions which may arise. We do operate a waiting list for those who are planning for their future or who wish to come here in the event of an unforeseen emergency, so please feel free to get in touch. All our care is delivered to a high standard, with highly experienced staff and other Healthcare specialists who come in. All our reports are good and we believe that each resident should live life according to their choices and in a happy place. All of this would not be possible without the support from our loyal supporters such as yourselves. The money raised from this wonderful annual event is so valuable to us at Brinsworth and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support in purchasing a ticket to tonight’s show.�
CONTINUED OVERLEAF >>>
>> ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 61
BRINSWORTH HOUSE CARE FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY
T
he idea of a ‘home for retired entertainers’ was first suggested by Joe Elvin (the King Rat of the Grand Order of Water Rats) in 1908. The idea was received with great enthusiasm and a considerable sum of money was immediately pledged from across the entertainment industry. Various fundraising events were organised in conjunction with The Music Hall Artistes’ Railway Association and later that year, the Variety Artistes’ Benevolent Fund (the original name of the EABF) was formed for the benefit of artistes across the Music Hall and variety profession.
The particulars of a dilapidated mansion near Twickenham were discovered and in August 1911, Brinsworth House was purchased for £2,400. Extensive renovations and alterations were needed, in addition to furnishing the Home and a special ‘Sixpenny Donation Fund’ was organised by ‘The Performer’ newspaper. The work was completed by November and a grand opening reception was held at Brinsworth House attended by many of the day’s leading artistes and journalists. At the reception, Joe Elvin and William McCarthy put forward an idea to establish a Society, to be known as ‘The Noble Six Hundred’ consisting of artistes and friends of the profession, each of whom would make a donation of £2.10.0 (£2.50) to raise the £1,400 required to pay off the mortgage. By the following April (1912), the entire amount had been raised and the mansion and 5 acres of land became the freehold property of the Music Hall profession. A board was erected and placed in the hall of the Home with the names of ‘The Noble Six Hundred’, where it still stands today. By the end of November 1912, there were 10 occupants in residency, including one married couple.
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THE FACILITIES OF BRINSWORTH HOUSE ACCESSIBILITY Brinsworth House is CSIS compliant, with ramp access to the house, an elevator, bath hoist facilities, and walk-in shower rooms. LAUNDRY FACILITIES A modern and daily in-house laundry collection facility allows residents to submit their clothing items for return the following day. DINING A fully-staffed kitchen and dining room provides delicious and healthy meals three times each day. Our resident chef caters for a wide variety of special dietary requirements, depending on the needs of each individual resident. THE BAR The lounge bar is fully stocked with requested lines, and is open at both lunchtime and during each evening. THE SALON The dedicated hair salon is operated by a professional hair dresser, and is open twice weekly. HEALTH AND FITNESS Each week, residents are invited to take part in an exercise programme that helps develop and maintain physical agility through musical movement. LIBRARY Brinsworth House is serviced by a publishing house that generously replenishes and updates our broad library every three to six months. ENTERTAINMENT Brinsworth House is proud of its in-house entertainment, hosting regular performances for the residents. Other regular entertainment includes weekly bingo, day trips and various annual functions such as Christmas parties, Valentine's parties, Easter functions, visiting farms and in-house clothes shows.
Over the years, Brinsworth House has cared for hundreds of residents. To name but a few… Hylda Baker, Charlie Drake, Alan ‘Fluff’ Freeman CBE, Dame Thora Hird DBE, Richard O’Sullivan, Ben Warris and Norman Wisdom. In 1912, Alfred Butt, Chairman of the VABF, proposed that an extension be built to Brinsworth House to accommodate the rising demand for the Home and he and Oswald Stoll persuaded King George V and Queen Mary to attend a ‘Royal Command Performance’ in aid of Brinsworth House. King George V and Queen Mary were so impressed by Brinsworth House and the work of the Fund that they became its Patrons from 1921. The Fund has enjoyed Royal Patronage from the reigning monarch ever since and the annual fundraising Royal Variety performance is, this year, celebrating its 102nd anniversary In 1974, the Variety Artistes’ Benevolent Fund (VABF) changed its name to the Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund (EABF), to allow the Fund to widen its criteria of support, enabling it to house anyone who had spent their life working in entertainment. Over the years, and with the continued help and financial support of the entertainment industry, two new wings have been added to Brinsworth House and on both occasions the care home was honoured by the presence of one of its most ardent supporters, the late HM Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, who performed the opening ceremonies. More recently, a new Conservatory was built, which was opened by HRH The Prince of Wales; also a very keen supporter of the Fund.
EABF ONLINE >> For more information on Brinsworth House & the work of the EABF, please visit www.eabf.org.uk ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 63
WORK OF THE EABF
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BY HON. CHAPLAIN, THE REV. CANON ROGER ROYLE
T
he late, great Dame Thora Hird, DBE, introduced me to the wonderful work of the Entertainment Artistes' Benevolent Fund, the charity you are supporting by attending this Royal Variety Performance. For many years, I had been one of Thora's regular visitors to her delightful mews home in London. She was the most wonderful story teller and I delighted in hearing about her years in show business and life as a child in Morecombe. The death of her beloved Scottie, her husband, manager, confidante, line-tester and very best friend, was a blow from which Thora never really recovered. Her daughter Janette was wonderful and she adored her two grandchildren but no one replaced Scottie. As the years went by, her health began to fail and there were fewer dates in the diary, something that really depressed her. She had live-in carers but towards the end even they couldn’t give Thora the care she both needed and deserved.
So Thora moved to Brinsworth House, the EABF’s 36 bedded care home in Twickenham. For Thora the move wasn’t easy. It never is leaving your own home, but the care she received couldn't have been better. On my first visit, Thora was sitting in one of Brinsworth’s very comfortable, relaxed lounges. A member of staff came and asked her if she would like tea for her guest. A tray of tea and biscuits was brought, put before Thora and she poured. This is the level of respect Brinsworth shows to all the residents. Under the wonderful leadership of Matron, Sheila Gould, a devoted staff of nurses, carers, cooks, cleaners, handymen, gardeners, and administrators make sure the quality of care is second to none, something that is recognised by the local authority on its regular but unannounced inspections. And the care is total care. There are outings; the recent visits to HRH The Prince of Wales’ Cotswold home ‘Highgrove’ are a real treat, as are boat trips on the Thames. Live entertainment means a lot to many of the residents who have spent their lives in show business. And there’s a Bar - you can't ask for more! I so enjoy my regular visits, which have enabled me to share some very special moments with both residents and staff. But the EABF doesn’t just care for those who are in Brinsworth House. Each month, a committee meets to allocate grants to those in need. All this work is very expensive and this is why your support and that of ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ is crucial. Mega salaries are reserved for the top stars. There are many people in show business whose salaries are not often that much above the minimum wage. The work isn’t regular and as regards pensions, well forget them! When I was playing Widow Twankey at Wimbledon, I had to remember that when the panto season ended I would be all right - I had other work to do. Many of the cast, especially the hardworking chorus, had no idea where their next job would come from. So it only takes illness, an accident or some other unfortunate, unplanned happening for the life of a performer, or one of his or her dependants, to be thrown into chaos, especially financially. Rent and fuel bills have to be paid, house repairs have to be carried out and food needs to be put on the table. Sometimes there isn’t even the money to pay for a funeral. This is where, because of your generosity, the EABF can and does help. THE REVEREND CANON ROGER ROYLE PAGE 64 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
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W
hen my mother, Dame Thora Hird, DBE, moved into Brinsworth House for, what turned out to be, the last few months of her life, many people were surprised. Here she was with 5 BAFTAs and an American Emmy Award for heavy and dramatic roles, numerous “straight” plays in London’s West End and a career count of over 500 plays in theatres up and down the land. Although her television career had included half a dozen comedy series, she was best known for her Alan Bennett “Talking Heads” plays and her 20 years of the BBC Sunday programme, ‘Songs of Praise’. But if you scratched the surface a little you would soon discover strong links and friendships with Variety. Her father, James Hird, started his career as a strolling Minstrel on the sands in Morecambe, Lancs, and her mother, Marie Mayor, met him while appearing in a summer show on the Central Pier. In the 1950s, Thora herself did many “Summer Seasons” in broad comedy plays at the Grand Theatre in Blackpool, Scarborough, Torquay, Southsea, Bournemouth etc. and during each of these summers, struck up friendships that she kept going through the years. So it was no surprise to me that in her nineties, when she needed a little help and tender loving care, that she asked to visit Brinsworth House.
Sure enough, as we walked in, she met old and dear friends and started trading stories and memories, from Blackpool Circus and the Black and White Minstrel Show, to a pianist who had accompanied her as she entertained troops during World War II. She moved in for “a rest” shortly afterwards and although she still made a couple of appearances in “Last of the Summer Wine” (a TV series that she had been in for over 16 years) it became very difficult for her to continue working. It was at this point that the wisdom and understanding of the staff became so very important. With total love and patience they cared for her, showing kindness and thoughtfulness beyond anything I have ever encountered. They helped her and they helped me and I will never forget them all.”
JANETTE SCOTT - daughter of Dame Thora Hird, DBE
EABF ONLINE >> For more information on Brinsworth House & the work of the EABF, please visit www.eabf.org.uk ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 65
BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT COLLABRO Five-piece vocal group, Collabro, won Britain's Got Talent 2014 and secured their spot on this year's Royal Variety Performance.
T
he hugely successful, annual ITV1 television show, Britain’s Got Talent, generously donates a large proportion of the money raised from viewers’ telephone votes to the Entertainment Artistes' Benevolent Fund each year. The EABF, in return, arranges for the series winner of the show to appear at the annual Royal Variety Performance, which is held in the presence of a senior member of the British Royal Family and watched by many millions of TV viewers worldwide. The EABF, now often simply known as the ‘Royal Variety Charity’, is enormously proud to be associated with Britain's Got Talent, and gratefully acknowledges the continued help and support of Simon Cowell and all at Syco Television.
Specialising in musical theatre, the group consists of Michael Auger, Richard Hadfield, Jamie Lambert, Matthew Pagan and Thomas J Redgrave. The band have an enthusiastic following who they refer to as their "Collaborators". Their debut album Stars was released on 18 August 2014 and debuted at No. 1 in the UK. Simon Cowell said: “For me this was the best Final I have ever done” This is the order in which the fabulous finalists came in this year's competition: Collabro, Lucy Kay, Bars and Melody Jack Pack, Darcy Oake, James Smith Jon Clegg, Lettice Rowbotham Paddy & Nico, The Addict Initiative Yanis Marshall, Arnaud and Mehdi Congratulations to all 11 finalists for producing a wonderful final!
BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT ONLINE >> For more information on Britain’s Got Talent, please visit the official ITV1 website at: http://talent.itv.com PAGE 66 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
ATTRACTION
2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2013
Series 7
H I S TO R Y O F W I N N E R S
Hungarian shadow dance troupe, Attraction, were voted the winners of Britain’s Got Talent 2013 and won their slot on the Royal Variety Performance at the London Palladium on the 25th November 2013, held in the presence of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales and Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall.
ASHLEIGH & PUDSEY
2012
Series 6
Ashleigh Butler, aged 17, originally from Wellingborough, Northamptonshire and her performing dog, Pudsey (a 6 year old Border Collie, Bichon Frise and Chinese Crested cross) won their spot on the very special 100th anniversary year of the Royal Variety Performance, held at the Royal Albert Hall, London, in the presence of HM The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, on 19th November, 2012.
JAI McDOWALL
2011
Series 5
Jai McDowall, aged 24, from Ayrshire in Scotland, performed the Josh Groban hit ‘To Where You Are’, securing him the 2011 crown. He performed at the Royal Variety Performance at The Lowry in Salford, Manchester on 5th December 2011, which was held in the presence of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal and Vice-Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence.
SPELBOUND
2010
Series 4
The 13 amazing gymnasts, originally from Spelthorne in Surrey, won their spot on the Royal Variety Performance at the London Palladium on the 9th December 2010, held in the presence of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales and Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall.
DIVERSITY
2009
Series 3
The ten-strong dance troupe famously beat Susan Boyle, putting her into second place, whilst the boys, aged between 12 and 25, from Dagenham, Leytonstone & Basildon in East London/Essex, won their spot on the Royal Variety Performance at the Blackpool Opera House on the 7th December 2009 - held in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.
GEORGE SAMPSON
2008
Series 2
The incredible 14 year old street dancer from Warrington in Cheshire, won his place on the Royal Variety Performance at the London Palladium on 11th December 2008, held in the presence of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales and Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall.
PAUL POTTS
2007
Series 1
The ex-carphone salesman from Port Talbot in South Wales, secured his place on the Royal Variety Performance at the Liverpool Empire Theatre on the 3rd December 2007, held in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 67
Presented annually in aid of the Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund Patron, Her Majesty The Queen
2 0 1 4
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
Staged in the presence of
His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge and
Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge
Executive Producers for the EABF Laurie Mansfield, Giles Cooper & Phil Dale Creative Director, ITV Studios Lee Connolly Executive Producers, ITV Studios Fiona Clark & Glenn Coomber Director, ITV Studios Richard Valentine
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 69
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
2014 ACT TWO AT A GLANCE YOUR HOST:
ACT TWO
MICHAEL MCINTYRE
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MISS SAIGON TREVOR NOAH ELLIE GOULDING COLLABRO HAMISH MCCANN
(PART OF LA SOIRÉE)
ROD WOODWARD INALA RUSSELL KANE ALFIE BOE ONE DIRECTION FINALE
ACT TWO
MISS SAIGON
Cameron Mackintosh’s new production of Boublil & Schönberg’s Miss Saigon opened at the Prince Edward Theatre in May this year. With record-breaking advance sales this acclaimed new production is proving a hit all over again, receiving standing ovations at every performance. This epic musical love story tells the tragic tale of young girl Kim, orphaned by war and taken in by the sleazy Engineer to work in his club. Kim falls in love with an American GI called Chris - but their lives are torn apart by the fall of Saigon. The original production opened at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane 25 years ago where it ran for 10 years. It has since played 300 cities in 15 different languages, has been seen by over 40 million people and this production is now playing to new generations across the globe. Cameron Mackintosh - "Miss Saigon is certainly the most contemporary musical I have produced and 25 years on its emotional impact and relevance has become even more powerful. It is a story that now resonates far beyond the shores of war-torn Vietnam as similar conflicts engulf the world. I am delighted that this remarkable cast, drawn from 18 countries, is giving you a glimpse into the world of Miss Saigon tonight. They have taken the show to new heights as it stuns new audiences in a way no other modern musical can."
TREVOR NOAH Hailing from South Africa, Trevor Noah is a comedian who has achieved international acclaim. Born a mixedrace child under Apartheid, he challenges the status quo through his unique perspective. A huge star in his native country, Trevor hosted two series of his own television show and has sold more DVD’s than any other comedian on the African continent. In 2012 he made his US television debut on ‘The Tonight Show’ and more recently appeared on ‘The Late Show with David Letterman’. Trevor is currently taking the UK by storm; notching up appearances on ‘Live at the Apollo’, ‘QI’ and ‘8 Out of 10 Cats’. His first UK tour was critically acclaimed and he is set to embark on his second nationwide tour next year. Making his first appearance on the Royal Variety Performance, Trevor said: “It is an honour to perform at such an iconic event and to such an esteemed audience.” ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 71
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
2014
ELLIE GOULDING
Having caught the public’s attention with her cover of ‘Your Song’, Ellie Goulding has gone on to become one of pop music’s hottest properties. She topped the BBC's Sound of 2010 poll and since then the English singersongwriter has quickly risen to the top of the charts with her hook-filled, electronic pop sound. The last few years have been littered with highlights for Ellie as she secured two consecutive number one albums with ‘Lights’ and ‘Halcyon’ and also performed for a private audience at the Royal Wedding. Since then Ellie has gone on to collaborate with Calvin Harris on the hit single ‘I Need Your Love’ and she continues to be a major attraction on the UK festival circuit. “The Royal Variety Performance has had the most unbelievable list of iconic performers take part over the last 100 years. To be able to be a part of this incredible event is truly an honour.”
COLLABRO Collabro were the triumphant winners of ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ this year and are the musical theatre boy band that charmed the nation. In what has been a whirlwind couple of months since winning the competition, the group released their debut album, ‘Stars’, and here they are now performing on one of the grandest stages of all – at the Royal Variety Performance. The album features eleven exquisitely reworked songs from the worlds of musical theatre and film, including a recorded version of ‘Stars’, the song that won them the final on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’. Collabro have also recently announced their greatly anticipated UK headline tour, which is due to hit theatres in early 2015. “It’s such a huge privilege to be invited to perform at the Royal Variety Performance. None of us could ever have imagined being on this stage in our wildest dreams this time last year. It’s sure to be an incredibly special night.” PAGE 72 | ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014
ACT TWO ROD WOODWARD
Welsh comedian Rod Woodward has been tipped for comedy greatness by such luminaries as Peter Kay and the late Bob Monkhouse. Having supported Paddy McGuinness and Russell Brand on tour, he won the BBC Wales comedy competition ‘Funny Business’ and performed at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas ahead of Welsh boxer Joe Calzaghe’s super fight with Bernard Hopkins in 2008. More recently Rod was invited to host Max Boyce’s 50th Anniversary Celebration at the Wales Millennium Centre and to appear on a St. David’s Day special on Welsh television. Rod can’t wait to take to the stage at the Palladium and said: “I saw ‘Allo Allo’ with my parents at the Palladium when I was 12 years old – that’s when I knew I wanted to be a comedian. Coming back here to actually perform on the Royal Variety Performance is definitely the highlight of my career.”
INALA Choral legends Ladysmith Black Mambazo – who shot to worldwide prominence on Paul Simon's ‘Graceland’ album – present INALA, a unique artistic collaboration with multi award-winning choreographer Mark Baldwin. This ambitious new production features talent from the Royal Ballet and Rambert as INALA embraces an exhilarating fusion of South African and western cultures live on stage. Performing an original score composed by Joseph Shabalala and Ella Spira, Ladysmith Black Mambazo blend the rhythms and harmonies of their native musical traditions with live music, inspiring the breathtaking movement of Baldwin’s choreography performed by an exceptional cast. Mapping a journey through South Africa’s turbulent past, the forgiveness of the present and hopes for the future, INALA delivers a spiritually uplifting and beautiful live story-telling experience powered by a cultural explosion of music, song and dance. “Having premiered our production this year at the Edinburgh International Festival, followed by sold out performances in London and regionally, to finish 2014 performing on the Royal Variety Performance is the dreamlike icing on our cake.” ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 73
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THE LONDON PALLADIUM
he London Palladium, designed by Frank Matcham, opened on Boxing Day 1910 with a variety bill including Ella Shields of “Burlington Bertie” fame, Nellie Wallace, Gracie Fields and classical actor Martin Harvey. The site had previously been occupied by the Corinthian Bazaar, Hengler’s Circus and the National Skating Palace, so had long been recognised as a place of entertainment. Originally built as a luxurious Music Hall, in subsequent years the Palladium became famous as the “Ace Variety Theatre of the World” and was a venue to which all performers aspired. For many years the building was home to the Crazy Gang with successive sell-out shows featuring Flanagan and Allen and their madcap comrades. Among the greats that have played here in variety seasons, charity galas or pantomimes are Bob Hope, Judy Garland, Danny Kaye, Bing Crosby, Sophie Tucker, Ethel Merman, Howard Keel, Arthur Askey, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Tommy Steele, Julie Andrews, Ken Dodd, the Two Ronnies and Cliff Richard. With the advent of television the weekly broadcasts of Sunday Night at the London Palladium became an institution and, with hosts including Tommy Trinder and Bruce Forsyth, made the venue even more famous.
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There are more broadcasts to follow in 2015 and building tours for next year are on sale now from 0844 412 2957.
As a result, and with an eye to boosting record sales, legendary acts including Mario Lanza, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones appeared on the Palladium stage. Keeping the legend alive Elton John, Robbie Williams, Sylvester Stallone and Neil Diamond have all played to packed houses in the last twelve months. This year also saw the return of Sunday Night Television broadcasts with stars including Art Garfunkel, Paloma Faith, Bryan Adams, Lionel Richie and Earth, Wind and Fire.
In 1979 Yul Brynner arrived in a spectacular production of The King and I which heralded further musicals in recent years including Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Cameron Mackintosh’s Oliver!, Saturday Night Fever, The King and I starring Elaine Paige, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Tommy Steele in Scrooge, Sinatra at the Palladium, The Sound of Music, Sister Act, The Wizard of Oz, a revival of A Chorus Line, Barry Humphries’ Farewell Tour and I Can’t Sing. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats returns to the West End stage from 6 December for a fun-filled Christmas season. The Palladium now prides itself on being London’s prime home for the spectacular family musical but it has not forgotten its rich heritage of variety and everyone who works here is extremely proud that it has hosted more annual Royal Variety Performances than any other venue.
Tonight is the 39th Royal Variety Performance to grace the Palladium stage and we all look forward to many more. FOR MORE INFORMATION >> www.reallyusefultheatres.co.uk twitter: @palladiumlondon Illustrations from The London Palladium Archive. Mark Fox conducts public tours of The London Palladium on the second Friday of every month and bespoke tours by arrangement. 020 7557 7309
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 81
THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
2014
ITV PRODUCTION
GLENN COOMBER
FIONA CLARK
LEE CONNOLLY
Glenn’s career spans two decades, and having started in radio and television news, he has worked on some of the most iconic events and television shows of the last 20 years. After specialising in entertainment television his credits include ‘The Brit Awards’, ‘I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!’ and ‘The Jump’. He produced four series of ITV’s ‘Dancing on Ice’ and was the Executive Producer on the 2012 National Television Award-winning series of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’. Last year's event was Glenn’s first Royal Variety Performance and he is honoured to be producing the show once again.
Fiona has worked on a range of entertainment shows since she began a career in television straight from school. These shows include ‘Live Aid’, ‘Whistle Test’, ‘Wogan’, ‘The Full Wax’, ‘The Word’, ‘The Big Breakfast’, ‘Children in Need’, ‘Elton John at The Royal Opera House’, the live 24 hour music marathon ‘Music Live’, ‘One Night with Rod Stewart’, ‘Michael Bublé Home For Christmas’, ‘The British Soap Awards’, ‘The Olivier Awards’, ‘The One and Only Cilla Black’, ‘Gary Barlow Journey to Afghanistan’ and the return of ‘Sunday Night at the Palladium’. Fiona is thrilled to be working on her fifth Royal Variety Performance.
Lee started his television career in the comedy department at London Weekend Television before moving on to work across many of LWT’s big entertainment shows including ‘Blind Date’, ‘Surprise Surprise’, ‘Barrymore’ and ‘Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway’. Lee went on to produce ‘Blind Date’, as well as numerous ‘An Audience with…’ shows and many other flagship entertainment, comedy and music programmes. Lee executive produced the Royal Variety Performance in 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2013, as well as this year's return of ‘Sunday Night at the Palladium’. As one of the Creative Directors for ITV Studios, Lee is responsible for overseeing a large array of ‘shiny floor’ shows for ITV and is delighted once again to be part of the team.
PETER DAVEY
RICHARD VALENTINE
AMANDA GEORGE
DAVID ARCH
Amanda George started her television career working for TV-am and then went on to work for Sir David Frost and his production company, David Paradine Productions. She joined London Weekend Television in 1996 working as a Production Secretary/Co-ordinator on a variety of programmes. Amanda then moved into Production Management and has worked on many of LWT, Granada and ITV Studios’ high profile entertainment shows such as ‘Blind Date’, ‘Brainiac’, ‘The British Soap Awards’, ‘Nelson Mandela: Happy 90th Birthday’, ‘The Kylie Show’, ‘Michael Bublé: Home for Christmas’, ‘The One and Only Cilla Black’ plus numerous music specials and ‘An Audience with...’ programmes. Amanda is delighted to be Line Producer on her fifth Royal Variety Performance.
David Arch is best known as the Musical Director for ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, which he has worked on with his band and singers since 2006. His extensive recording/album credits include Joni Mitchell, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Robbie Williams, Westlife, Il Divo, Susan Boyle, Elton John, Leona Lewis and Paul McCartney – with whom he has also worked with live. David has contributed to nearly a hundred feature films including the ‘Harry Potter’ series, ‘Star Wars’, ‘Notting Hill’, ‘Calendar Girls’ and ‘Goldeneye’ and was the featured piano soloist in ‘The King’s Speech’. He is honoured to be musical director for this, his fourth Royal Variety Performance.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
COMMISSIONING EDITOR, ENTERTAINMENT Peter Davey joined the ITV Network Commissioning team in January of this year, having previously been Creative Director of Entertainment at ITV Studios since 2011. Prior to joining ITV Studios, Peter was Director of Programmes at September Films, creating and producing shows for all UK broadcasters across all genres – from entertainment through to reality and factual/documentaries – including shows such as ‘Beauty and the Geek’ and ‘Playing it Straight’. Earlier in his career Peter held senior production roles at London Weekend Television and Granada Media, where he was responsible for originating the format that became ‘I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!’ This is Peter’s first Royal Variety Performance and describes the experience as an incredible honour and thrill.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
DIRECTOR
Richard is an RTS winner and BAFTA nominated director who has been involved in some of the biggest shows and events in the UK and internationally over the years. Richard has worked on the Opening Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games 2014, The Invictus Games Opening & Closing Ceremonies, The Royal Wedding, Chime for Change, Help for Heroes Concert, Live 8 and Live Earth. This year will be Richard’s fifth time on the Royal Variety Performance and he is privileged to be directing this special and unique show once again.
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CREATIVE DIRECTOR
LINE PRODUCER
SIOBHAN GREENE DIRECTOR OF ENTERTAINMENT, ITV STUDIOS
Siobhan Greene is a multi-award winning programme maker who has created and produced some of the biggest entertainment shows on television. Siobhan joined Syco at its inception in 2004 as the Executive Producer of 'The X Factor', she helped steer it to win six British Academy Awards and seven National Television Awards. In September 2012 she joined ITV Studios as Director of Entertainment, overseeing a wide range of entertainment output. She is the Executive Producer of 'Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway', a show she co-created and won two BAFTA awards for this year. Siobhan feels it's a dream come true to be part of the Royal Variety Performance this year.
MUSICAL DIRECTOR
MARK WAGMAN
LAURA GALLEN
CHRIS KEARSEY
Mark started his television career in BBC news and current affairs before working on daily live shows including ‘The Big Breakfast’ and ‘Richard and Judy’. He joined ITV in 2004 where he oversaw and developed talent relations across a range of the company’s output, including numerous ‘An Audience with…’ specials featuring Take That, Celine Dion, Kylie Minogue and Joan Rivers. Mark has also worked on ‘Saturday Night Divas’, ‘Piers Morgan’s Life Stories’ and HRH Prince Charles’s 60th birthday comedy special, ‘We Are Most Amused’. Last year Mark formed part of the team that produced ‘The Diamond Jubilee Pageant’ and continues to consult across a wide range of programmes for ITV including ‘Sunday Night at the Palladium’ and ‘Neil Diamond: One Night Only’. This is Mark’s seventh Royal Variety Performance and is proud to be part of such a strong team.
Originally from Liverpool, Laura moved to London having graduated with a BA in Broadcasting from Leeds University in 2005. She has worked on exciting televised events such as the London 2012 Olympic Opening and Closing Ceremonies, the ‘National Television Awards’ and a live worldwide transmission of ‘Swan Lake’ from St. Petersburg, Russia. Most recently she has worked on a oneoff special celebrating the career of Cilla Black and ‘The British Soap Awards’ which took place at the Hackney Empire this year for the first time. Laura is thrilled to be back at ITV and honoured once again to be working on the prestigious Royal Variety Performance for the second time.
Chris graduated with BA Hons in Media Production from Lincoln University in 2005 and started his television career working on quiz shows for ITV. He has spent a number of years working in the world of comedy entertainment and has worked on popular shows such as ‘Comic Relief’, ‘Soccer Aid’, ‘Sport Relief’ and ‘Never Mind the Buzzcocks’. Chris’ proudest moment came when he worked on the London 2012 Olympic Games and he is privileged to have been granted the opportunity to work on his first Royal Variety Performance.
PETER BINGEMANN
DAVE DAVEY
KEVIN DUFF
Dave began lighting for television on Roy Castle's ‘Record Breakers’ before moving on to ‘Top of the Pops’ during the Brit-pop era, designing lighting effects for a wide variety of bands and artistes. He now specialises in large, ambitious entertainment shows and live music events and his lighting can be seen on some of Britain's biggest and best television series, most recently ‘The X Factor’, ‘The Brit Awards’, ’The National Television Awards’, ‘Sunday Night at the Palladium’, ‘Britain's Got Talent’, ‘Take Me Out’, ‘The Pride of Britain Awards’ and ‘Break the Safe’. This is Dave's second year on the Royal Variety Performance and he is thrilled to be taking part once again.
Kevin started his career in 1987 at London Weekend Television and cut his teeth on the many music and variety shows that were produced there. Since then he has set up his own company, ‘Taking The Mix’, and has worked all over the world mixing live broadcast as well as remixing shows in his own studio. Kevin was awarded a BAFTA Craft Award in 2014 for his work on ‘Saturday Night Takeaway’ and is delighted to once again be looking after the audio aspects of the Royal Variety Performance for ITV.
TALENT EXECUTIVE
PRODUCTION DESIGNER
Peter Bingemann has been behind the design of many high profile shows including the Live 8 concerts and the Concert for Diana at Wembley Stadium. He designed The Children’s Party at Buckingham Palace to celebrate the Queen’s 80th birthday, and ‘We Are Most Amused’, created for Prince Charles’ 60th birthday. Other recent designs include ‘The Brit Awards’, ‘Sunday Night at The Palladium’, ‘Popstar to Operastar’, ‘Take That Come to Town’, ‘The Kylie Show’, ‘Neil Diamond: One Night Only’, ‘The BAFTA Film Awards’ at The Royal Opera House, ‘The Classical Brit Awards’ at The Royal Albert Hall, ‘The Nobel Peace Prize Concert’ in Oslo, ‘The Laureus Sports Awards’ in Lisbon and ‘Fashion Rocks’ in Monaco. Peter is proud to be taking part in his seventh Royal Variety Performance.
ASSISTANT PRODUCER
LIGHTING DESIGNER
ASSISTANT PRODUCER
SOUND SUPERVISOR
JONATHAN FERNANDO RESEARCHER
Jonathan graduated in 2008 with a BA Hons in Creative Writing & Film Studies before moving into the world of journalism. He got his first break in television after joining ITV in 2010 on a scheme aimed at bringing creative talent into the company and joined the Global Formats team helping them to develop new shows for a worldwide audience. Since then he has worked on a number of high profile programmes including the BAFTA awardwinning ‘A League of their Own’, ‘The Voice UK’ and ‘The X Factor’, whilst also becoming a question writer for a variety of quiz shows including ‘The Million Pound Drop’. Jonathan considers it a career highlight and a tremendous honour to be taking part in his first Royal Variety Performance..
ANTHONY VAN LAAST
STAGE DIRECTOR Anthony Van Laast trained at the London School of Contemporary Dance, later joining the Company as both performer and choreographer. Since then he has become one of the most successful and well-respected choreographers in both theatre and film. His credits include ‘Mamma Mia’, ’Sister Act’, ‘Bombay Dreams’, ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ and ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows’. In 1999 Anthony was awarded the MBE for Services to Dance and Choreography. He is delighted to be working on his fifth Royal Variety Performance.
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 83
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KING RAT RICK WAKEMAN & all Members of The Grand Order of Water Rats send very best wishes to The EABF for the 2014 Royal Variety Performance Have a Wonderful Evening
Membership 2014 Tom Anderson Kenny Baker Barry Balmayne Tony Barton Mike Batt David Berglas Bob ‘The Cat’ Bevan, MBE Michael Black Lionel Blair Stan Boardman John Bouchier John Boulter Anthony J. Bown Adger Brown Duggie Brown Joe Brown MBE Frank Bruno, MBE Bryan Burdon Anthony Bygraves Wyn Calvin, MBE OStJ Kenny Cantor David Capri Johnnie Casson Duggie Chapman MBE Tony Christie Steve Clark Bernie Clifton Con Cluskey Dec Cluskey Graham Cole, OBE Jess Conrad, OBE Michael Crawford, CBE Barry Cryer, OBE
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THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE
2014
THANK YOU! Laurie Mansfield and Giles Cooper would like to thank all of the following for their hard work and fantastic contribution to this evening’s Royal Variety Performance:
ADVERTISING: Haines & Hall (UK) Ltd, BFBS, Blackpool Pleasure Beach Ltd, The Club for Acts and Actors, Grand Order of Lady Ratlings, The Really Useful Group, The Tiller Girls, Qdos Entertainment, Laurie Mansfield Associates, Kennedy Street, Grand Order of Water Rats, Shanly Homes, Delfont Foundation, PRS for Music Members Benevolent Fund, Chelsea Lodge, Kids n Cancer, Smith and Williamson, The Comedian’s Golfing Society, JLT Management Services Ltd AGENTS / MANAGEMENT / PR: Bryony Gaffer, Deirdre Moran – Atlantic Records, Sarah Adams, Thom Brunner – Sassy Media, Ian Grenfel – Quietus Management, Nirvana Chelvachandran, Molly Ladbrook-Hutt – Decca Records, Ella Spira, Pietra Mello-Pittman – Sister Grimm Ltd, Sarah Longbottom, Katie Sharples – Bell Pottinger, Chloe Pritchard-Gordon – The Cornershop, Lucy Whitby – Mark Rubinstein Ltd, Jack Madeley, Claire Dundas – James Grant Group, Hannah Chambers, Liz Hadley, Megan Pugh Chambers Management, Kim Robinson - Avalon Management Group, Peter Mansfield - Laurie Mansfield Associates, Jacqui Quaife - Jacqui Quaife PR, Sarah Haddow, Jessica Spaine - Polydor, Jill Hattersley, Seanne Farmer, Miss M Productions, David Steinberg, Sam Feldman - Macklam Feldman Management, Richard Wootton - RW Publicity, John Taylor, Holly Letchworth - Philymack Management, Soraya Akhavi - Hollywood Records, Lynsey Wallace, Lucie Avery - Universal Music Cameron Mackintosh Ltd and the Company of Miss Saigon, Nicki Ross, Pooja Chana - Sony Music, Jenny Kern, Victoria Settepassi, Gerard Cukier, Neil Hughes MARKETING / PHOTOGRAPHY / CREATIVE / SECURITY / EXTERNAL SUPPLIERS: Keith Watkins, Joanna Horrigan, Nick Linford, Connor Crawford, Craig Hewitt & Luke Wright for the Soho Media Group, SIS Live, ELP, PRG, Creative Technology, Quantum Special Effects, Light Creative, Floating Earth, Hello Charlie, Potion Pictures, Gee FX, SounDesign, Aerial Camera Systems, Alan Wells Camera Services, Plus 4 Audio, Steel Monkey, DLM, Portaprompt, Water Sculptures, The London Studios Post Production, The London Metropolitan Police, The Royal Protection Team, Stage Miracles, Music & Arts, John Henry’s, Central & Co, Westminster Council, EABF Photographer: Andy Newbold, ITV Photographers: John Wright & Oscar Blustin, Flowers: Bobby Warans & Helen Byrne (Posy / Royal Box) LONDON PALLADIUM: Gareth Parnell, Mark Fox, Andy Conroy and all the staff at the London Palladium Special thanks to The Lord Lloyd Webber
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ITV STUDIOS: Creative Director - Lee Connolly, Executive Producer - Fiona Clark, Executive Producer - Glenn Coomber, Director - Richard Valentine, Head of Production - Sue Dunford, Line Producer Amanda George, Talent Executive - Mark Wagman, Assistant Producer - Laura Gallen, Assistant Producer - Chris Kearsey, Researcher - Jonathan Fernando, Production Designer - Peter Bingemann, Lighting Director - Dave Davey, Script Supervisor - Michelle Arnold, Production Coordinator - Laura Thrower, Junior Co-ordinator - Suzanne Fairman, Production Runner - Jake Keeble, Production Runner - Ella Mahony, Costume Designer - Linda Martin, Make-up supervisor - Nichola Bellamy, Production Buyer - Bobby Warans, Camera Supervisor - Rob Sargent, Sound Supervisors - Kevin Duff and Andy Wernham, Vision Mixer - Simon Sanders, Video Editors - Mark Goodwin, Damian O’Neill and Mark Wybourn, Senior Floor Manager - Nick Keene, Technical Stage Director - Simon Bourne, Stage Managers - Caroline Caley and Sarah Whiting, Assistant Stage Manager - Amy Garrett, Production Accountant - Anita Mulla, Stage Director - Anthony Van Laast, Musical Director - David Arch, The Royal Variety Orchestra, Music Supervisors - Nicola Francis & Nicola Salter, Choreographer - Chris Baldock TILLER GIRLS AND THEIR HELPERS: Joy Castle, Shirley Caught, Kath Darragh, Sue Finch , Pamela Harcourt, Rosalie Kirkman, Rita McBeath, Fay Robinson, Rosemarie Russell,Hazel Stuart, Lynn Ford Thompson, Rosemary Trowell, June Vincent, Ian Castle, David Caught, Ian Forster, Mark Fox, David Leach, John Thompson, Tony Trowel, Bruce Vincent EABF: Laurie Mansfield – Life President, Giles Cooper – Chairman, Phil Dale – Vice Chairman, Ian Freeman – Treasurer, Nilesh Ruparel – Finance Director, Tatree Preece RGN – Matron, Cathryn Tomlinson – PA to Giles Cooper, Lorraine Keeble – Events Co-ordinator, Victoria Bond – Events Assistant, Sital Makwana – Finance Manager, Myra Harte – Finance Officer, Rex Bygate – IT Consultant BROCHURE: Creative direction & design by Nick Linford and Connor Crawford at the Soho Media Group This brochure is printed on Lumi Silk and certified in accordance with the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) Copyright © Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund 2014. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the copyright owner.
ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE 2014 | PAGE 89
On behalf of the EABF, Laurie Mansfield & Giles Cooper, would like to thank the hundreds of people who have worked on this evening’s Royal Variety Performance, with special thanks to Peter Fincham, Elaine Bedell, Lee Connolly, Fiona Clark, Glenn Coomber & Amanda George from ITV Studios and Gareth, Mark, Spencer & Andy from the London Palladium. brochure creative direction & design by soho media group
On behalf of the EABF, Laurie Mansfield & Giles Cooper, would like to thank Her Majesty The Queen, for her continued support as the sole Patron of our charity. The unwavering presence of the Royal Family at this annual entertainment institution, ensures that the EABF is able to continue to give help and assistance to elderly or impoverished entertainers throughout the UK yearafter-year and for this we are all truly grateful.