Eyes And Teeth

Welcome to Eyes and Teeth the Podcast. I have loved creating this podcast now an archive of conversation in the World of Showbusiness. You can find them all on You Tube as well as Buzzsprout, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more. Over 200 episodes with very talented people across show business.In this episode I modestly shout about my career from being inspired to working some of the greatest theatres in the UK. I talk about my obvious TV Break on BGT in 2013 as well as my early talent shows in the 90's where I built my confidence and my act. As a ventriloquist I have seen the world, and entertained millions, and as I approach 50 on April 29th 2025, I am still enjoying performing but I find myself writing things including a book 'Ventriloquest', Screenplays and more that have nothing to do with the ventriloquist. I can say that I feel more creative than ever and that must be the wisdom talking.Enjoy my Lockdown project that kept me smiling and laughing 'Eyes and Teeth'.

Here it is... The Final episode of Eyes and Teeth. Over 200 Episodes from Paul Adams to Sir Ken Dodd...This final episode is dedicated to those guests we have since lost including John Challis, Wyn Calvin, Paul Eastwood, Phil Butler, Duggie Brown & Dave Myers. I want to thank every single guest who took my calls and gave their time to make this show a cavalcade of variety chat to last for years to come.

On this final episode with Sir Ken Dodd the tribute to the King of Comedy. Thanks for listening to Eyes & Teeth. Please download, share and review over 200 episodes for free...Sir Ken Dodd was a national treasure and loved for over 70 years across the UK as one of our finest Comedians and Ventriloquists. He was the 6th Beatle, a pioneer, an encyclopaedia of humour and master of his stage craft. Ken adored people and spent time passing advice onto younger performers and even spent time talking equally to his fans, on trains, in libraries or at stage doors. I was lucky enough to tour with Ken Dodd for 5 years across the UK. He to me was my Godfather of Showbusiness and someone I will never forget watching from the wings during my spots. He was a one off but thanks to his wife Lady Anne Jones, Ken's legacy will live on for another 90 years and beyond and Knotty Ash will forever hold his heart and memories.In the final two episodes of Eyes and Teeth you can hear chats with Amethyst's Danny Hunt, Keith Simmons, Hilary O Neil, Nigel; Hogg, John Fisher, Anne Dodd, alongside many clips of the mans incredible work. Enjoy The land of the Diddy Man Doddy.

Sir Ken Dodd's career spanned over 70 years in show business and might I say at the Top of his game. He was Liverpool's very own and even The Beatles adored him as one of the greatest comedians we have ever seen. Doddy as he was known to millions had an encyclopaedia of a mind for comedy words, gags, routines and song whilst also topping the charts with his own albums as he had a beautiful voice he didn't even need comedy to earn his living. Ken Dodd stayed true to his roots and never left his childhood home in Knotty Ash, Liverpool. He was Mr Variety, the GodFather of Comedy and King of the Diddy men.Although we lost Ken aged 90, he was still planning to return to the stage to continue touring but nature took its course and took from us an idol and someone who inspired many generations of comedians, actors, singers, magicians and ventriloquists across the country.In my final podcast in tribute to Sir Ken I talk with his friends, writers, support acts and his dear wife Lady Anne Jones about the man they loved and adored. And now he has left us there is more Doddy out there than ever so he will always be in Liverpool.Welcome to Eyes & Teeth Sir Ken Dodd xxx

Paul Daniels was one of the most successful magicians in British Television history.  Name a magician today who never learnt from Paul Daniels Magic Set when they were a child? Inspiring as a magician and leader of Variety on television along with The Des O Connor Show Paul would also introduce the best in variety to our TV Screens in his 16 years at the top alongside his Producer John Fisher.Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee were our Saturday night entertainment, they entertained us and that's why we are thankful for the years of fun and magic they brought to us.In this episode of Eyes and Teeth the Specials the penultimate edition I welcome special guests Ronn Lucas, Martin Daniels, Nina Hewlett, Richard & Hayley Griffin, Phil Hitchcock and John Fisher as well as clips from TV and Radio Shows and a few private chats with Paul & Debbie saved for this very show. Enjoy the wonderful Paul Daniels.

Keith Harris a national treasure with his little Green Duck Orville stole the hearts of millions in the 1980's throughout his television and pantomime career. Sell out Summer Seasons and Panto's saw Keith smash box office records and earn himself a brand new generation of fans after creating the 'Duck Off' show for UK Universities and nightclubs.He was a master of entertaining and I am giving back by paying tribute as he gave me so much including his time.Enjoy clips, interviews and tribute messages from many on Eyes and Teeth - Keith Harris.

Keith Harris was one of the most successful ventriloquists in Great Britain's show business history.With record sold out summer seasons at Blackpool's Grand Theatre and pantomimes Keith's Saturday Night TV Show was watched by millions of families in the 1980's and after Orville's Song written by Bobby Crush was released in 1982 it shot Orville into many hearts of children and adults selling a whopping 400.000 copies.Keith worked through the declining decade of variety into the 1990's and then re invented himself for a new audience in Universities and Top Holiday centres across the UK.  With his new adult show 'Duck Off' Keith enjoyed booking through popular demand and even worked top tv shows starring alongside Harry Hill, Little Britain's Matt & David, Never Mind The Buzzcocks, Peter Kay and Ricky Gervais.I also talk about my connection with Keith and our time meeting and working together on my first nationwide TV show in 1993.He was a legend until the end, but the end came way too soon.Let's celebrate The Life & Career of Keith Harris - Ventriloquist.

Welcome to Part 2 of my tribute to Roy Hudd OBE. In this episode I play more clips from Roy's career and include interviews with Chris Emmett, Debbie Hudd, Jimmy Cricket, Rick Wakeman and Mike Craig.My main goal as well as spreading the word of Roy's amazing work and books out there is to make you aware of www.theroyhuddstaatueappeal.co.uk and upcoming events to raise funds for this project. Your help to share and donate is greatly appreciated.Hope you enjoy the show.

Roy Hudd, OBE was a comedian, actor, presenter, radio host, author and authority on the history of music hall entertainment. Roy was a Butlin's Clacton Redcoat but made his name on Radio in many guises including Workers' Playtime, BBC Radio 2's satirical series The News Huddlines which ran from 1975 to 2001.Roy Hudd broke into television in the mid-1960s in sketch series such as The Illustrated Weekly Hudd and The Roy Hudd Show. More TV followed with Lipstick on Your Collar, Common As Muck, a drama about a group of refuse collectors, alongside Edward Woodward, One Foot in the Grave. He appeared as the undertaker Archie Shuttleworth in the ITV soap opera Coronation Street. He also starred in dramas The Quest, New Tricks, Casualty, The Last Detective, Missing, Ashes to Ashes, Just William, Call the Midwife, Midsomer Murders, Law & Order: UK and Holby City. Benidorm and Broadchurch. Stage appearances include many pantomime and variety performances. Lionel Bart's musical Oliver! Bud Flanagan in Underneath the Arches, Hard Times, The Wizard of Oz, Goodnight Mister Tom, A Woman of No Importance.This episode features Debbie Hudd plus more who adored Roy Hudd OBE.

Dave Evans was a World Class Entertainer. Truly gifted in music, comedy and impressions which wowed the Cabaret Clubs across the UK and Australia. He astounded audiences for thirty years at sea and impressed us on television when variety was at its height. On this Tribute Season, I talk with friends and colleagues of those no longer with us and I have chosen five of the greatest I worked with to end Eyes & Teeth on.Today you can enjoy clips of Dave Evans he sent me over the years and sadly as they were on CD they have started to fade and the quality isn't what I'd hoped it to be but you will enjoy his jokes and voices and vocals along the way.Today's Special Guests are Roy Yates, Al Brown, Paul Shepherd, Jack Sharpe, Debbie Lee James, Johnny Mans, Joe Pasquale and Lee Carroll. The Specials are slightly longer on these tributes so brace yourself for 2 hours of anecdotes, interviews, live sets and vocals from one of the greatest entertainers the UK have ever seen. Dave Evans

Welcome to the last Episode of Eyes & Teeth Theo Worlds Greatest variety Show Season 15.When I think about the Variety in the World and hosting a show that is based around variety there is one family that comes to mind and that is a family who have lived and breathed Variety for over 60 years. Think of the most successful and famous show business family in the world and you will instantly think of the Osmonds.In 2016 my career I felt was made by one phonecall during a shopping trip in Eastbourne with my wife Nina I answered the phone to Tony Denton a Tour Promotor who wanted to ask if I would join The Osmonds on Tour this coming Xmas 2016.Not only that but Jimmy Osmond wanted to talk to me later this day about joining him and his brothers in Branson Missouri for a stint at the Andy Williams Moon River Theatre.I couldn't be more happy to accept the job. That Christmas was an incredible experience working not only in America, but with The Osmonds and a full incredible cast of talented people and I got to enjoy crazy golf every other day.Christmas Parties, thanksgiving get togethers and road trips as well as visiting all the other Christmas shows on the strip in Branson just added to the memories of my time with these amazing peopleIn recent years Jay Osmond alongside a talented group of people including Jay's wife Karen have written and produced an incredible Musical dedicated to the Osmonds and their fans. Today we talk about the musical and its inspirations, its stars, its success and its futureI could not end Eyes & Teeth without closing in style and today I welcome to EYES AND TEETH the worlds greatest variety show, the worlds greatest variety family the osmonds when I talk to Jay Osmond.

In part two Jimmy & I discuss the world of ventriloquists and its future as well as talking about the great vents out there today making the art look easy. It clearly isn't when you realise how many of us are left out there. Gary Wilner to Terry Fator, Darci Lynne to Jeff Dunham, Paul Zerdin to Ray Alan, listen in to a chat about what will be a book by Steve Hewlett and ventriloquists worldwide...YouTube soundbite clips from: Ronn Lucas (MDA Telethon), (,Gary Wilner (ventg99), Paul Levent (Jack Sharpe), Senor Wences (The Ed Sullivan Show).Welcome Jimmy Tamley to Eyes, Lips and Teeth.

Jimmy Tamley was my inspiration to become a vent act, to be part of showbusiness. He sparked that interest in me but not just to have an act on stage but he is part of me loving the vents before us, he showed me archives of vents and connected me with vent magazines and figure makers worldwide, I have alot to thank him for.In the next two episodes Jim & I chat as we always do about the world of ventriloquism and he wanted to focus on subjects throughout my book Ventriloquest out in the near future so we talk and talk and talk without moving our lips. Welcome back Jimmy Tamley

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth - my MUM Sharon HewlettThis episode in this final special season I talk relaxed to my mum about her growing up in London and me taking on showbusiness which she says has impacted her life in a fun way.There are special little notes from my Lola & Larissa, her own mum Lilian, our nan as well as Shane Ritchie,  Paul Ross, Marti Pellow and his band Wet Wet Wet, Joanna Lumley, Mr Motivator, The Nolans, Mica Paris, Joe Mangle aka Mark Little, Tony Slattery, Carmel McSharry and most of these were recorded in 1995 across London in time for a mothers day. I created silly celebrity memories for mum over the years.She loves "celebrity" so I try and bring as much of that to her as i can through my work.Overall I just wanted to thank her and my dad Terry for their part in allowing me to follow my dream.

Welcome to Eyes and Teeth Jay JohnsonJay Johnson is an International Success story in the art of ventriloquism highly respected in the land of Sitcom, stage performance, the acting world and the art of Ventriloquism. He was certainly on my Top 10 list greatest vents of all time so you can imagine how happy I am to have him guest on my podcast.Jay has been seen on TV drama's such as an episode of Mrs. Columbo,The Love Boat, Gimme a Break!, Simon & Simon, The Facts of Life, Empty Nest (reuniting him with his father from Soap, Richard Mulligan), and Dave's World.Jay Johnson: The Two & Only! written and performed by Jay Johnson, opened on Broadway to rave reviews at the Helen Hayes Theatre on September 28, 2006. The show deconstructs and demonstrates Johnson's lifelong obsession with the art of ventriloquism. The show is a Valentine, not only to the art, but also to his mentor and friend Arthur Sieving, who created Johnson's first professional puppet. The show is aided and abetted by a cast of ventriloquated characters, including his Soap alter ego, Bob. Johnson won the 2007 Tony Award for Best Special Theatrical Event for the show. He is the only ventriloquist to ever be nominated and win an American Theatre Wing Tony Award or an Ovation Award.The original Bob puppet featured on Soap was inducted into the Smithsonian Institute's collections of pop culture icons in May 2007. He currently uses a replica Bob for Jay Johnson: The Two & Only! Welcome to Eyes & Teeth Jay Johnson

Welcome to Eyes and Teeth and The World's Greatest Variety ShowOn my last tour date in Norfolk I swung by one of my favourite venues called The Thursford Collection. In the spring to Summer it showcases fairground attractions and steam engines of the highest calibre but in October its turned into a rehearsal space for the Thursford's Christmas Spectacular which has attracted over 5.8 million visitors to date and is the largest Christmas show in the country.I have had the pleasure of hosting this show in 2008, 2009, 2010 & 2019 and it boasts on its website a cast of 120 professional singers, dancers and musicians – most of whom are straight out of the West End. The three-hour performance delivers an extravaganza of non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety. It's a fast moving celebration of the festive season featuring an eclectic mix of both seasonal and year-round favourites, with famous and much-loved chart toppers being performed alongside traditional carols. The website also notes that the finale of the show includes a fly over of white doves across the auditorium. So do not look up with your mouths open, lucky its not based in Eastbourne otherwise there would be a flyover of seagulls, and you wouldn't want them swooping down to grab your sausage roll.It's almost difficult to explain the feeling of being at Thursford as a punter and as a performer. You have to see it to believe it and although it sells out or nearly sells out annually still so many people know nothing about it. You can't say that of people in the industry. Andrew Lloyd Webber knows about it and its all down to one man and his incredible team of creatives.John Cushing is the show's Producer, its brainchild, from choir to spectacular John joins me to discuss the process of getting a show like this on the stage as we go behind the scenes in his office where a carpet covered in CD's is turned into one of the greatest shows to ever grace the stage in the UK. Welcome to Thursford, Welcome to Eyes & Teeth John Cushing. 

Bobby Davro is an absolute legend in the world of British Variety and Television from the 1980's onwards. I first met Bobby at the Wimbledon theatre when I was 16 and visiting puppeteer Simon Buckley who I had just recorded a TV show with in 1993 and he invited me to see his pantomime starring Bobby Davro. Bobby was gracious and always has been to me.We have since worked many variety shows or charity events together and he has me in tears of laughter each time and he is one of the best impressionists out there.Bobby tells me of his big break on TV where he ended his act with an impression of Elton John on the piano and this shot him to the title of a household name landing his own TV Series.We talk of his collaboration with ventriloquist Ray Alan as well as many more including his friendship with an icon of his in Gilbert O Sullivan and this includes Bobby's latest TV spot on BBC's Celebrity MastermindWe talk about Dave Evans, Frankie Vaughan, Bob Monkhouse, Les Dennis, Peter Kay & Sir Ken Dodd.One of my favourite subjects today was taking advice about daughters and Bobby explains it so well. I have to say I laughed a lot and I welled up on occasions, Bobby really does talk from the heart. He has been there and done it. His stage skills and advice is well worth taking in especially where learning routines and memory comes into it. This is something I struggle with.It has taken me 2 years to tie Bobby down for this interview but it was well worth the wait. Welcome to the World's Greatest Variety Show Bobby Davro 

Welcome to Eyes and Teeth Kevin DeanKevin and I became acquainted within the GOWR, the Grand Order of Water Rats, which is a Showbusiness charity over 130 years old which included members including Danny Kaye, Charles Chaplin, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, Tommy Cooper, Charlie Chester, Les Dawson, Keith Harris, and those still with us today such as Rick Wakeman, Alfie Boe, The Hairy Bikers, Steve Hewlett, WHO? Well it is a who's who in the order, we look out for our fellow entertainers who have fallen on hard times and are involved in the Royal Variety Charity as well as countless nominated charities including childrens charities.Its an entertainers way of giving back which is always great for us.I digress, Kevin Dean and I have performed on many of these benefit shows, we are planning our own for the Rats in the near future but we got even closer during the lockdown years.We recorded songs, and jingles, sketches and so much more and you can hear Kevin's magic during this podcast as he is the producer of our very own Eyes and Teeth jingles and the theme tune itself, all from the head of KD productions.So now it's time for you to get to know the man behind the music and Two Metre Peter, welcome to Eyes & Teeth Kevin Dean

Desmondo & Cherry KingWelcome to Eyes & Teeth a lovely couple who I keep bumping into even into their retirement but who retires in this business? Hardly any of us, if showbusiness is in your blood then you will always want to share your talent and Des King with Cherry have entertained millions world wide up to just a few weeks ago. Des and Cherry tell me of their meeting and seasons they have performed in as well as great talents we have shared the stage with.It's rare I get to record an actual podcast backstage, but this was just that and even with another act in the room so now and again you will hear magician and ventriloquist Sam Jones in the background now and again. We were performing in Peacehaven in a variety show and we had the best audience in.The London Palladium pops up as well as Andy Eastwood, Jan Hunt, The City Varieties in Leeds, Hilary O Neil, Matt Daniel Baker, Keith Harris, David Nixon, Sir Ken Dodd, it really is a good old chat with friends before a show and a great example of why I wanted to start this podcast.I remember talking the much missed Phil Butler just a few short years ago about his podcast The Green Room where he took the same idea but across comedy clubs. He was there first and I just loved the idea so I guess along with Ricky Gervais, Debbie McGee, Louis Theroux and a few more I have been inspired and eyes and teeth was born.Most importantly Des shares with us his diagnoses of Prostate cancer and the latest news with that which is a very much needed listen too for young and old men alikeWelcome todays guests Des King & Cherry

Eyes & Teeth would not be here without the Royal Variety Performance, or TV Talent Shows and they were inspirations not just for a budding young ventriloquist wannabe in Basingstoke in 1987 but for 1000's of comedy, variety and musical acts for nearly a century.Today's guest is not only related to Lord Bernard Delfont and Lew Grade but he himself has made a huge impact behind the scenes keeping the cogs of showbusiness agencies thriving and the Royal variety charity and Brinsworth House the success they are today.Today we talk about Des O Connor, Arthur Worsley plus more ventriloquists, Freddie Starr and much more.I am blessed to share laughter and drinks with todays guest within the Grand Order of Water Rats in several lodges we frequent throughout each year getting together. My time in the Rats and performances in Brinsworth House means I have an opportunity to give back to the business I have chosen to get me through my lifetime.Because of that I am thankful to todays guest for looking out for us entertainers by showcasing us on the Command Performance or placing certain members of the business in a safe haven via the Royal Variety Charity.Welcome to Eyes & Teeth The World's Greatest Variety Show Ian Freeman.

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth Mark Goddard who for me was one of my earliest colleagues, we were both resident entertainers in 1994 at an Isle of Wight holiday park. I was 18.Mark has such a passion for this business from working holiday parks to playing Elvis on stage. He worked on the famous Trisha show with all those dysfunctional people, and he has worked with his favourite band MUD which was a dream come true and speaks highly of other loves including Richard Digance.His knowledge of Elvis and the business is vast as you get to hear so welcome the man himself, is it Elvis Goddard Presley or Mark Elvis Goddard?

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth Robert Pearce a pantomime Dame and performer of poems and stories and a wonderful new way of entertaining families in festivals and theatres across the land.In this edition of Eyes & Teeth I talk to Robert about our time together touring with Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee and we talk of our fondness of meeting the late and very great Roy Hudd.We also talk about the wonderful Dame Edna Everage – Barry Humphries and west country comedian the adorable Andy Ford. Listen to the passion of a performer who gives his all to make the world a happier place.Welcome Robert Pearce

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth The Worlds Greatest Variety Show, Season 15 edition 6 with the one and only Harry Hill.Harry is about to embark on a new UK Tour with his new musical Tony Blair the Rock Opera. So today we catch up and talk about his work as a stand up comedian, musical producer, admirer of ventriloquists and their dummies, Sean Lock and much more. Harry's success on television brought him awards and millions of fans but it was his decision to end the TV show that made him a household name as the schedule was gruelling and besides he is now able to tour his Stand Up show, write more books, collaborate with Steve Brown on exciting projects as well as be at home with his family instead of watching 12 hours of TV dramas and soaps for little comedy nuggets. Until I read his biography FIGHT I didn't know how much hands on harry was in putting together these clips but that is the main reason he wanted more freedom after a good 10 years on ITV. My wife Nina & I loved the show so much we went along to one of the recordings to see the magic happen and he had us in hysterics as usual.One thing Harry does have as well as his successful career is that he has his charm laid back nature and I was delighted he agreed to our chat on Eyes & Teeth and its just in time to mention that the Tony Blair Rock Opera is now on sale at the Leicester Square Theatre and is on from April 15th to my 21st before going on a National Tour.Oh while I'm here my theatre Tour Ventriloquest – A Life in the Day of Arthur Lager continues April to August and can be seen in Hunstanton, Southampton, Hastings, Bungay Norfolk, Saddleworth, Verwood Dorset, Eastbourne, Chelmsford, Stafford, Axminster, Shanklin IOW, Ivybridge, Bromyard midlands, Haverhill Suffolk, Paighton and Ilfracombe in DEVON.Got to www.thestevehewlettshow.com for dates.Now its time for a special edition of Eyes & Teeth with Harry Hill

Welcome to the World's greatest variety show – Season 15 in Eyes & teeth when I talk to Gary Lovini.Gary is a true showman and he had a full on career in the UK then moved to Florida, USA to start all over and he has made an astounding success out of it.Gary talks About his early years in Talent Competitions, Butlins, inventing a new style of performing with a violin. The local talent shows spread across the midlands and then around the UK and then TV biggest TV Talent show where it went crazy for Gary.Gary's career went from Cabaret clubs to every major TV show on at the time in the late 1980's from Des O Connor to Wogan, What's My Line to Summertime Special and the Childrens Royal variety.We also talk about our mutual friendship within the Grand Order of Water rats that we are proud members of.From the QE2 Cunard ship to HM Queen Elizabeth 2 in person and the moment Gary blanked Englebert Humperdinck. He made up for it of course.I once had dinner on LBC radio with Vanessa Mae who I guess was a mix of Classical Pop and made an impact in her style moving about like no other but that was in the 90's and Gary was there first in the 1980's. Welcome to the Show the incredible performer Gary Lovini

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth Dene Michael who is a member of Black Lace from the 1980's, yes you remember the Agadoo, The Music Man and Superman, these are ingrained into my mind from an early age and of course a huge part of my early work, they were the first dances I nailed as a teenager in barry Island or Whitecliff Bay holiday park.It's Dene who along with new member Craig Harper is keeping the memory of those Holiday Classic dances Live and Well on the Holiday circuit, across Festivals, 80's weekends and wherever you feel the need to push a pineapple. I really am in my element here talking to someone who was part of my learning the business as an entertainer and Dene has a great story. Colin Gibb (Original Black Lace) Gordon King (Original Black Lace)Dene Michael & Craig Harper (Black Lace Conga Party)From song writing to making Christmas hits with Corrie's Bruce Jones and Benidorm's Crissy Rock and having the honour of a Spitting Image puppet made of him and Alan Barton featured on Top of the Pops, talking of Eurovision, 321 with ted Rogers, and where you can see Black Lace LIVE in 2023 enjoy this edition of Eyes & Teeth, The Worlds Greatest Variety Show with Dene Michaels. 

Today I catch up with another mate, a comedy colleague I first worked with 20 years ago at Jethro's club and when I saw him work, I thought where has this guy come from? He was hilarious and even Jethro was standing at the back of his club in tears of laughter.Since then, we have crossed paths and Tank is just a naturally funny bloke and good egg to be around.Tank tells me how he got his stage name, how he got into the business at a late stage in his life as well as talking about Cruises, theatres including Babbacombe, Trevor George and Jethro.We begin talking about our hobby collecting things, he with his Army military clothing memorabilia which is incredible to see then we compare my collection of shotglasses to his actual glasses and that's where we kick off Welcome to Eyes & Teeth in Season 15, edition 3 Tank Sherman

Welcome to Eyes and Teeth the wonderful personality of Tonya Traylor Tonya is a singer come ventriloquist come ventriloquist and puppet collector but its more than just a little side hobby. Tonya's passion for protecting music hall characters who have worked with ventriloquists for decades and maybe even a century ago. Her collection went from one to over 500 figures which is the largest of all time of independent collection of figures from the vent world and you can hear how dedicated and passionate Tonya is about savouring their authenticity and memories which is why she is my very welcome guest on The Greatest Variety Show in the WorldWelcome Tonya Traylor

Alan FletcherWelcome back to Eyes & Teeth the Final Season… The Worlds Greatest Variety ShowToday I talk to one of the longest running much loved Soap characters who for 39 years has been one of Neighbours familiar faces Dr Karl Kennedy.Alan Fletcher actor, musician, singer, photographer, pantomime performer is one of the most hardest working people on stage and in television and this begun way before he joined the hit soap series. We talk about his time working with Arthur Lowe and Bill Oddie, joining his rock band The Waiting Room, Pantomime and his time coming to an end in Neighbours in 2022 and upcoming UK tours as well as the news that Neighbours is back and saved on Amazon Freevee.  Alan is now touring the UK in a Celebration of Neighbours alongside fellow cast members Susan Kennedy, Toadfish, Plain Jane, and Paul Robinson please check the certain dates for the cast members but this is a show not to be missed for the neighbours fans out there, you can see this at the London Palladium March 13th& 14th The Brighton centre on 18th, Mayflower Southampton on 19th, Forum in Bath on 22nd. You can also see Alan tour his new album The Point across the UK in March and June & July he is touring his One man show The Dr Will see you now… Go to AlanFletcher.net for dates and tickets.Welcome to Eyes & Teeth Alan FletcherClips from alanfletcher.net, Neighbours BBC One, Channel 5, Fremantle in Australia. It was created by television executive Reg Watson. The Seven Network.You Tube, The Waiting Room and the Point by Alan Fletcher.

Mike Doyle returns as we talk about my return to pantomime in Snow White at The New Theatre Cardiff where he looked after me more than I looked after Arthur Lager. This was a labour of love recording in his dressing room and updating Eyes & Teeth on his fresh news including the Beautiful song Forever in Wales written by Lloyd Davies.Enjoy this episode as we get closer to my final season...Welcome Mike Doyle

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth – that's showbiz the penultimate episode of season 14.Today I talk to an award winning Comedy Magician renowned on the Magic and Cabaret circuit.We talk about Sir Ken Dodd, Blackpool Magic, Sumo wrestling, Bob Monkhouse, The Magic Castle in Los Angeles and we chat about Jimmy's love of working as a drummer in a band as a teenager and the present day. The hedgehog anecdote is one of my favourites but it is nice to catch up with one of the friendliest most down to earth of entertainers who has loved his work at sea and on land and to prove its in his veins he returns as Santa Claus Christmas 2023 so watch this space.In the meantime welcome todays guest Jimmy Carlo

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth – That's Showbiz the huge talents of actress Sian Reeves.I have just completed a fantastic contract in the capital city of Wales and it was a star studded Pantomime with Sports Star Gareth Thomas, Award winning Pop Star Ian ‘H' Watkins, Comedy and Vocal sensation Mike Doyle, Jazz performer Denquar Chupak amongst others and todays guest is just incredible to watch. Sian is constantly on television and if not in EastEnders, Coronation Street or Emmerdale, she is in the next drama Cutting It, Northern Lights, Hope Springs, Lunch Monkey and many many more.She has appeared in movies her latest sharing the screen with Pauline Collins and Joan Collins but most recently she starred with me in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the New Theatre Cardiff for the past 6 weeks.To watch Sian work closely throughout rehearsals and the full 4 week run was truly a gift. I have worked with actresses in pantomime and great ones and Sian is up there as possibly my favourite. She is so down to earth, fun and honest off stage and delivers the ultimate professional performance from wings to centre stage giving 110% every time. There were no mistakes, no late entrances, even up to the last show she was in her space going over her lines to perform them to the max. I loved watching her play Queen Lucretia even if every time she shouted for Muddles she was leaving as I was entering so we never really had dialogue until we chatted about crisps towards the end of the story but I clocked this ladies talent and respect her true honour to her art.She is absolutely brilliant so please welcome to the show Sian Reeves.

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth – That's ShowbizToday I invite a cast member from my current Snow White pantomime in Cardiff to join me and share her journey and what a journey she is having. Not just the journey through the woods being chased by a Henchman who is also an icon of Rugby (Gareth Thomas) and a wicked Queen played by one of the UK's greatest actresses Sian Reeves and saved by Muddles who walks about the palace grounds with his hand up an old man along the way bumping into 7 performers with 2 sets of legs each… btw the Way Mike Doyle had visitors to Snow White and the 7 Dwarves this week and they met him after to tell him they really loved the gnomes in the show!!!Anyway this journey is about Denquars life in Hong Kong growing up transporting to Bristol and catapulting her into the World of Jazz and songwriting as well as starring in Qdos & Crossroads pantomimes. We talk about those shows which include Diversity, Count Arthur Strong, Mike Doyle and her all time favourite inspirations in music and her thoughts on working alongside a ventriloquist for 6 weeks in the Capitol of Wales…Welcome Denquar Chupak

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth – That's Showbiz season 14.Today I talk with a fellow Water Rat and Big Band leader Mark Porter. Mark has been around this business from a very early age starting in Wales and taking an interest in Crooners and their music he sat back and learnt from the best by watching live on stage Andy Williams, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Paul Anka, and what he must of learned at that time he soaked up and now delivers class throughout his touring with his own show as well as the Glenn Miller Orchestra and many more.Mark has a wealth of humour and knowledge of music and showbusiness and has some great anecdotes about collecting autographs throughout his time on the road and I now know where the term “never meet your heroes” originated.There are also little nuggets about Princess Diana and The Queen MotherIt's a fascinating insight to another brother water rat and great entertainer.Welcome Mark Porter

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth – That's Showbiz Renato Pires Today a success story in the making from a young man from Portugal who has faced so many hurdles and heartbreaks along the way but it has never stopped him giving up his goals and dreams. He has such a positive outlook on life and business and wants the best for everyone he works with. He seems to use his sad past to make others lives better and at the end of the day just wants to entertain the public with his gift and he passes that gift onto so many to make their dreams comes true.Renato and I hooked up about 10 years ago for a few projects including making a short film and we even drop off and pick up our kids at the same school gate.It's interesting when you get to know someone more by having a chat on a podcast and it proves that everyone has a story. Today's episode shows this guy's positivity and drive that started with him looking after his father suffering from cancer and then came the news that his mum had left him to it and left the family home.The Circus has entered his life which to me seems to be a family created out of passion and misfortune, but I am so inspired our chat today that I would love nothing more than his Circus Story in Sussex to a massive success it deserves to be.Welcome to Eyes & Teeth Renato Pires.

Pete CutlerWelcome to Eyes & Teeth and today is Christmas Eve 2022 so Merry Christmas to all in these crazy times we're experiencing. It started with Brexit, then Covid years and the crazy news just doesn't stop which is why a little light relief in your ears is created through the medium of showbusiness as I continue my last few seasons of this podcast delving into the minds and careers of talented individuals and take little nuggets from their entertainment world so the future generation can look back and listen to how a comedian gets to the Comedy Store, or how that singer got the Royal Albert Hall or that comedy actor got to the sitcom or TV Presenter reached the heights of Television Success, it really is an insight and tuition for young budding performers in all genres so sit back and enjoy this next episode with an all round nice guy as well as an all round entertainer the unique talents of Pete Cutler.We had a few things in common working at the London Palladium back in the mid-nineties as Ushers, we knew the same people in that theatre and so we get to reminisce about those days as well as the days we cruised the seven seas on Cunard Welcome Pete Cutler

Dean WintersWelcome to Eyes & Teeth, That's Showbiz and where better to take you than Torquay and talk  about Babbacombe and its very successful summer season still going strong after many decades and one of the last surviving variety theatres running annual shows with casts of many talented folk which thanks to its Producer at Matpro Ltd Colin Matthews and his wonderful team have launched quite a few great names in variety and musicals in recent years.Deano has been on the circuit for a few decades and knows his stuff, he has some great anecdotes and shares with us his heroes and stories of working hard in showbusiness, in pantomime, Benidorm, television, radio to co writing and starring in his own stage play with his pal the brilliant Steve Laister.Dean is also a keen runner and talks about raising coins for many charities whilst travelling the world to complete marathons. Now thats dedicationMost of all he has the best laugh in the business since Barbara WindsorWelcome to Eyes & Teeth Season 14 Dean Winters

Jon UdryWelcome to Eyes & Teeth talking Variety and Showbusiness getting to know great performers behind the scenes.We literally go behind the stage door today as I talk to the brilliant Jon Udry about his Lockdown shows, Cruise Ship Life, festivals and his brand new book in which he penned his experience performing in venues beginning with the letters of the alphabet across the UK.Jon also tells me about juggling on the radio and his Variety Bungalow show recorded live in his home. Covid years created weird and strange gigs but then our business we have always had challenges.Welcome to Eyes & teeth – that's Showbiz Jon Udry

Helen Ward JacksonWelcome to Eyes & Teeth – That's Showbiz. Thank you for joining me and if its for the first time you have only missed 182 episodes of behind the scenes of Theatre, Comedy Clubs, Cruise Ships, Television and Radio Stars talking about their experiences which in turn could help along the next generation of performers by listening to our successes and mistakes along the way. Trust me we all make mistakes, some bigger than others but we all never stop learning.In this business of ours we also bump into some great people, some you may never work with again but in todays story I am lucky to of worked alongside Helen countless times. Her talent is a force to be reckoned with. She has a huge voice and addictive personality you can't help but fall for.She is funny and extremely talented and in todays episode we chat about meeting in Sussex, working in theatres, variety and charity shows as well as her own Career which has flown beyond Eastbourne and now she enjoys the finest Theatres worldwide on the greatest Cruise Ships out there.From appearing in Mamma Mia alongside a Broadway cast as well as playing Hattie Jacques for me in Re-Educating Archie a stage play about the famous Radio show starring a ventriloquist dummy. Google It!There is also her incredible Adele Tribute Show which accompanies her own Diva Show as herself where she delights in singing her favourite songs linked together with her natural and hilarious personality.Welcome Helen Ward Jackson

Tony Dowling… some of you will know his name and some may not. Tony was not only a successful Comedian and played dream venues along the way but he used his wisdom to start some businesses on the side. He is an inventor and that is I guess what has brought him most of his success, but he would never regret taking on one of the hardest jobs in showbusiness working the clubs and theatres across the UK & abroad. He's been paid off AND been paid well. You can hear the experience and know how in his voice, he has been there and done it and he wants to talk about it. Tony is of the old school, he's now retired but when he was at the top of his game, he was topical, he was hip he just had to do what he needed to get that next job in the World of Comedy and he has some fascinating stories along the way on this episode of That's Showbiz – on Eyes & Teeth with Tony Dowling.

Lloyd HollettPlease welcome to Eyes & Teeth a unique entertainer who can have the audience in stitches one minute and in tears the next.His style is so different to many, and I have always been flawed by his skills as a wordsmith. If you haven't yet seen Llyod work, then you must go out of your way to do so. He will make you smile if not howl with laughter. He personifies what this Podcast is all about, In fact I was sad he never got back to me as I thought my listeners would love to hear his story and learn of his talent and I was going to have to resign to the fact that he wasn't interested but I couldn't be more wrong.I never had a direct number for Lloyd, so I sent a Facebook message to invite him on in 2020 and never heard a thing back until our mutual friend Jimmy Tamley was working with him on a ship in the Autumn of 2022 and told me Lloyd was wondering why I hadn't asked him on the show.Well, that was solved pretty quickly and here we are talking about Pantomime, proposals, puns and poems, Jim Davidson, Dave Lee, Stanley Unwin, Gyles Brandreth and much more on Season 14 of Eyes & Teeth – Thats Showbiz!!!Welcome Lloyd Hollett

Welcome to the final guest on Season 13 the RATS with Roy Walker. Roy, Water Rat, gameshow host, radio star, tv comedian, Edinburgh Festival favourite talks to me today about his early days and talent shows to when he entered New Faces TV show which launched his Comedy Stand up career which led to Catchphrase onto Carpark Catchphrase with Chris Moyles and consequently his hit Edinburgh Festival show. Roy's career saw him hosting TV shows such as Roy Walker's TV Bloomers and Roy Walker's Gameshow Moments as well as his appearance on The Royal variety Performance and had his own episode of the famous This Is Your Life with Michael Aspel OBE in the 1990's.Roy is proud of his roots and his off springs Josie, Mark & Phil who are all very talented in their own ways and this episode gives a little insight into the life of a funny man and his successes for which he has loved along the way including over 100 University bookings across the UK.Welcome to Eyes & Teeth the Legendary Roy Walker

Kaplan KayeWelcome to Eyes & Teeth a wonderful man… PKR Kaplan KayeKaplan grew up with his father Davey entertaining the world and Kaplan and his sister Melody have brought joy to audiences ever since. Melody being a Lady Ratling and Kaplan being a past King Rat.Kaplan talks about his Music writing notably Chalkdust The Brat he co Produced with Roger Kitter, a consortway production. In recent years Kaplan tours the Ukaye Ukes with Brother Rat and performer Bill Dare where they merge the Ukelele sound with pop tracks of today.He also blesses us with anecdotes of the business, and we get to know a dedicated showbusiness performer who oozes talent and kindness. Welcome to The RATS Kaplan Kaye

Welcome to Mike Martin – Scribe Rat and one of the GOWR trustees of the charity Mike made himself known to me once I joined the order and I found out much more about him once I bought a copy of his book BE LUCKY about his father and PKR George Martin the Casual Comedian.Mike recalls those days of his missing father being on the road and of course spying on the windmill theatre waiting of his dad to finish work.Conversations about Equity, Basil Brush, Keith Harris and Harry Worth and the grand order of water rats feature as well as some interesting anecdotes along the way about working as a supporting actor in film and television such as Four Weddings and a Funeral and The Only Fools and Horses episode the Jolly Boys. Mike is into his American West movies and locations in the Alamo and Tennessee and has researched for author purposes. And he talks about his projects he's working on including a new tour titled Walking back to Happiness and The Jake Leg Jug Band.Enjoy listening to my conversation with one of The RATS in 2022 Welcome to Eyes & Teeth Mike Martin

Colin SpaullWelcome to Eyes & Teeth brother Water Rat the great Colin Spaull.As I head off to another Water Rats Lodge and my next guest is flying out to another Doctor Who convention to meet his fans. Colin has been a very successful and proud jobbing actor who has stayed true to his business. He has loved being on screen or on stage since he was a child actor.That transition is not always easy but his experiences he talks about today show him to care about what he does and that is why he has worked for over 6 decades in our industry.From Italia Conti to working alongside Eric Sykes playing his son plus a sketch or two with Benny Hill and he tells of riding his scooter on a film set with a15 year old Hollywood star on the back.Playing Peter in the series Heidi was a highlight as was 3 years in the west end playing Noddy for Enid Blyton. And of course, we cover his time on Dr Who working with Colin Baker and David Tennant and his long-time friendship with Emmerdale and Dr Who co-star Frazer Hines. Frazer is also a fellow Brother Rat.Enjoy these anecdotes and moments from the life and times of Colin Spaull

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth The RATS Comedian George SaundersGeorge and I met at the Comedians Golfing Society about 15 years ago and have since become brothers in the Grand Order showbusiness charity and that is what this season is all about.Performers giving their time to raise coins for charities including children's charities and the Royal variety Charity and www.gowr.net was born in 1889 to help those entertainers in hard times and is active today so much so it helped those in need during a certain pandemic.In today's conversation George and I talk about being in Lodge and what it's like bantering with a mix of talent. He tells me about his experiences in the navy and how he was involved in stopping WW3, (we need him now) then he talks about how he ended up in Butlins as a red coat to working with Mike Jerome, Jeff Stevenson, Tommy Cooper, Elton John & Graham Taylor as well as his time at Bailey's Cabaret Club in Watford.Welcome to Eyes & Teeth George Saunders

Bobbo Roberts is a Clown and Circus performer; he has worked with horses as well as a dog and a goose in his act and in recent times has taken on security at concerts in Scotland which is pandemic created. If he can help it, he would rather be out there in the circus ring or back at Edinburgh Festival doing what he knows best and loves and that's making people happy.Bobbo grew up in a World of Circus, his family history meant that it was inevitable that Bobbo would be mucking out the elephants or putting on that red nose for that extra laugh but knowing Bobbo I think if his family weren't in showbusiness then I believe he would have started the trend himself as its in his blood, you can tell by talking to him that he has soaked up his surroundings like a sponge and recalls so many memories of growing up in that world we know as Circus.Stories of Water Rats, his father Bobby Roberts and friends of the family Jon Pertwee, Sir Ken Dodd, Norman Barrett MBE, Circus and Edinburgh festival along with Bobbo's Edinburgh Festival experience make for a wonderful 45 minutes of behind the scenes of ShowbusinessWelcome to Eyes & Teeth Bobbo Roberts 

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth Photographer, Water Rat John McKenzieIf you recognise the name McKenzie and associate that with photographs that's because John one for the sons of Doug McKenzie, famed photographer for the Royal Variety Performance for over 60 years, The Queen Mothers favourite photographer, Rock Stars, Movie Stars and comedians loved Doug as they did John who not only worked alongside his father snapping away but carried on his legacy through a lens for many including The Grand Order of Water Rats.Both admired greatly within our industry John today talks about The Who, The Queen Mother, John Lennon, Morecambe and Wise, The Rolling Stones, Liz Taylor the list goes on, so I'll let someone who was there tell the real story of behind the camera. Welcome to Eyes & Teeth the Rats John McKenzie 

Ray MartinWelcome to Eyes & Teeth season 13. The RATSThe Grand Order of Water Rats is a charitable organisation formed by entertainers in 1889 and 133 years later they found Steve Hewlett. If you delve into the history books of variety, many names from there will crop up mentioning the GOWR. Names such as Wee Georgie Wood, Little Tich, Ventriloquists Fred Russell & Peter Brough, and comedians Sandy Powell or George Martin the casual comedian. Some Water Rats bred natural entertainers and today's guest is just that. He is a talented gent who has written comedy for TV & Radio shows and their stars, he has acted, written songs and performed with the best. Today I talk about George Martin with one of his sons to find out what it was like to be the child of a brilliantly successful comedian on the circuit in the 1950's & 60's, a King Rat but to him he was purely just DAD.Welcome to eyes and Teeth Ray Martin

Welcome to Eyes & Teeth Season 13 THE RATSIf you are bewildered as to what the Rats are still then you can go to our website www.gowr.net for the history, past members, current members, events, museum details and how to book your visit as well as finding what we do and who we raise coins for. My second guest in this series is Steve Barclay. We met in a nightclub in Benidorm, we were performing not clubbing. Steve tells all about his experience out there as well as his extensive time in theatre working with his favourite people including the late and great Sir Ken Dodd who was also a brother Rat.Welcome to Eyes and Teeth the Rats - Steve Barclay

Welcome to Season 13 of Eyes & Teeth – This Season is Titled The RATS. The rats have been around since 1889 and there are never more than 200 members in the order at one time.I was member 883 and my proposer was Roy Hudd OBE and seconder was Roger De Courcey.Can you imagine sitting in lodge listening to anecdotes and laughing at fellow comedians or actors, musicians, magicians, ventriloquists or members of the Royal household sharing one thing that is universal and that is laughter.At one time Laurel & Hardy were sat there with Wee Georgie Wood, or Little Tich would have turned up on a night off to talk about his busy week at the music hall. (With thanks to British Pathe for their incredible archive videos on you tube)Just think of Tommy Cooper and Les Dawson adlibbing across the room when Max Bygraves trying to tell a story… The order is steeped in history of variety and humour, and we meet around 12 times a year on top of organising Charity Events as well as the highlight of each year when that years King Rat plans the biggest party in London in November at their very own Ball.In recent times our last King Rat Duggie Brown was crowned in 2020, for obvious reasons his crown was rolled over to 2021 and 2022 where this year would have been his big event. Sadly, we lost Duggie to a sudden illness mid 2022 which still today saddens us.Duggie was the most brilliant of Kings, we all were treated to the banter, he had the stories, and we were happy to hear them. He worked on stage as a brilliant comedian and as an actor in TV and commercials even towards the end he was turning work away.We miss you Duggie. Max Bygraves OBE loved being part of the GOWR and his story today is told by my first guest in this season. Anthony Bygraves grew up surrounded by the glamour and glitz of British showbusiness and he himself has created a wealth of Music & Comedy as well as kept his father's legacy alive Anthony has Written Produced and Directed shows and records and toured worldwide in his own right. Listen to his story today as we chat about his father Max, The London Palladium, Judy Garland, Peter Brough and Archie Andrews, when James Mason saved his life, his final moments with Tony Hancock in Australia and so much more as he Tells us more than just one story.Welcome to E&T The Rats Anthony Bygraves

Welcome to the final edition in Season 12. In this episode I know you're going to enjoy as I take you back to the height of Cannon & Ball's success as a double act that lasted decades right up until the very sad passing of Bobby Ball in 2020.Tommy Cannon, a national treasure and one who admits he owes his career to Bobby in those early years as he talks to Eyes & Teeth about a Weld of Laughter.Double acts over the years on British television have always been there but they seem to have a decade or so dedicated to them, in that case the 1980's were Cannon & Balls years. Cannon & Ball have always been there it seems from those early Wheeltappers Shows in the 1970's too I'm a Celebrity and Last Laugh in Las Vegas in more recent years.I can relate to double acts as a ventriloquist, but I can't imagine what I'd do without Arthur Lager. It would be like losing a right arm, literally for me, but when the nation lost Bobby Ball, we all felt a great loss as if he were our funny uncle, but he was someone's father, husband, son, friend and to Tommy more like a brother.In this final edition to Season 12, welcome to Eyes & Teeth the big big talent of Tommy cannon