Famous People You've Never Heard Of

Avril Coleridge-Taylor (1903-1988);  Wikipedia says she was a "pianist".  She was.  She was also a composer and conductor (in fact she was the first female conductor of the band of the Royal Marines).   She was also the daughter of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.Historian and author Stephen Bourne and musician and author Patricia Hammond talk about her  talent and her eventful  life in this episode.  Find out more about Stephen and his work championing black and LGBTQ history here: https://stephenbourne.co.uk/Follow Stephen on Twitter: https://twitter.com/blackpoppies14Find out more about Patricia, her music and her work to rediscover the music of the past , particularly unsung female composers here: https://patriciahammond.com/Follow Patricia on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/hammondpatriciaMusic:  Mr Sun & Can Sorrow Find Me are used with permission.  Both, along with many other gems can be found on Patricia's Youtube channel here:https://www.youtube.com/user/patriciahammondsongsHost:  Lottie WalkerGuests:  Stephen Bourne & Patricia HammondProduction & Editing:  Harry JacobsThank you for listening. If you've enjoyed today's podcast do subscribe via your streaming platform so that you never miss an episode and you can catch up on past episodes.If you'd like to help us to keep the podcast going in these tough times, please consider becoming a patron. It's really easy to do. Just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media. We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

We're delighted and privileged to be releasing today's podcast on the 200th anniversary of the death of Billy Waters.Born in 1776 Waters was a familiar sight on the Strand in London.  He was a black ex-sailor who had been invalided out of the Navy after losing a leg.  With a crude wooden prosthesis he danced and also played the violin outside the Adelphi Theatre.  He became so famous that a whole industry grew up around him - his picture was painted by celebrated artists of the time, there were porcelain statues of him on sale and he was even portrayed in a popular play.  Sadly this story does not end well.Why do we refer to him as "Waters" and not "Billy"?  precisely because "Billy Waters" became a fictionalised character.  In this podcast Dr. Mary Shannon talks about the real man behind the myth and how popular culture has not changed much in 200 years.  The "fame game" is still exploiting the vulnerable.  What has changed considerably is the life of the busker and we're also fortunate to have first hand experiences of the modern day busking life told to us by Charlotte Campbell.We've told some sad tales during the time we've been recording our podcasts, but Waters' is possibly the most tragic.  We just hope that we can contribute a little to seeing him get the attention he deserves.Guest:  Dr. Mary ShannonGuest:  Charlotte CampbellHost:  Lottie WalkerProduction & Editing:  Harry JacobsFind out  more about Mary:https://pure.roehampton.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/mary-l-shannonLook out for Mary's book,   "Billy Waters is Dancing", which  will be published by Yale University Press.This research received support of a Linda H. Peterson Fellowship awarded by the Research Society for Victorian Periodicals and funded from the bequest of the Eileen Curran estate; it is currently funded by a Leverhulme Trust Research Fellowship Grant.Leverhulme Trust:https://www.leverhulme.ac.uk/The Research Society for Victorian Periodicals:https://rs4vp.org/Find out more about Charlotte:https://www.charlottecampbell.co.uk/More from Mary about Waters on BBC Radio 3:https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001k1g8Thank you for listening. If you've enjoyed today's podcast do subscribe via your streaming platform so that you never miss an episode and you can catch up on past episodes.If you'd like to help us to keep the podcast going in these tough times, please consider becoming a patron. It's really easy to do. Just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media. We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

Samuel Coleridge-Taylor (1875-1912)  was a British composer.His mother was English and his father from Sierra Leone.  He referred to himself as "Anglo-African" and was referred to by white musicians in the US as the "Black Mahler", which is the title of the biography by  Charles Elford.Coleridge-Taylor entered the Royal College of Music at the age of only 15 and was taught by Prof. Charles Villiers Stanford, who conducted the debut performance of Coleridge-Taylor's "Hiawatha".  He is renowned in the US as a role model for black classical musicians and Elgar said he was “far and away the cleverest fellow going amongst the younger men".We hope you enjoy finding out more about him. Guest :  Chenoa Murphy Host:  Lottie WalkerEditor:  Harry JacobsAbout Chenoa Murphy: https://blackclassicalmusicians.com/about-chenoa/Follow  Chenoa on Twitter : https://twitter.com/chenoaalamuSuzuki Association of America: https://suzukiassociation.org/Chineke! Foundation: https://www.chineke.org/The Black Mahler Website: http://www.blackmahler.com/Thank you for listening. If you've enjoyed today's podcast do subscribe via your streaming platform so that you never miss an episode and you can catch up on past episodes.If you'd like to help us to keep the podcast going in these tough times, please consider becoming a patron. It's really easy to do. Just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media. We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

Paula David's one woman show is a journey through menopause and a discovery of self.It is poetic and musical, has movement and dance and examines something that all women experience and few have the courage to speak about.  It is also highly amusing!Paula spoke to us about the show ahead of her one night at the Exchange in Twickenham on 29th March as part of the One Woman Wednesday season.Book tickets for the show here:https://exchangetwickenham.co.uk/event/blood-sweat-vaginas/Guest:  Paula DavidHost:  Lottie WalkerEditor:  Harry JacobsThank you for listening. If you've enjoyed today's podcast do subscribe via your streaming platform so that you never miss an episode and you can catch up on past episodes.If you'd like to help us to keep the podcast going in these tough times, please consider becoming a patron. It's really easy to do. Just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media. We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

Yootha Joyce, best known for "George and Mildred" was one of the best known TV stars of the 1970's.  But she was so much more...Award -winning actress Caroline Burns-Cooke tells her story in the  brilliant one woman show "Testament of Yootha", showing for one night only at the Exchange in Twickenham on 22nd March as part of the One Woman Wednesday season to celebrate Womens History Month and International Womens Day.We had a quick chat with her about the show.....Guest:  Caroline Burns CookeHost: Lottie WalkerEditor:  Harry JacobsBook tickets for 22nd March here:https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/stmarysuni/t-ojmjgvmFollow Caroline on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/proxyropeFollow Caroline on Twitter:https://twitter.com/CarolineCooke19Thank you for listening. If you've enjoyed today's podcast do subscribe via your streaming platform so that you never miss an episode and you can catch up on past episodes.If you'd like to help us to keep the podcast going in these tough times, please consider becoming a patron. It's really easy to do. Just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media. We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

Isadora Duncan:  dancer, muse, innovator, political activist and so much more was born in the USA in 1877.  She died in Nice, France in 1927 in a freak accident that is sadly the thing that she seems to be most remembered for.  Well we want to change that!Elizabeth Blake is an actress, dancer and choreographer.  She has written and is currently performing a one woman show about Isadora that has wowed audiences and critics alike and today and we're delighted she agreed to chat to us about the great Isadora Duncan.Check out Elizabeth  - and see where to see the show "Isadora the Barefoot Dancer" here:https://www.facebook.com/isadoraidancewhatiamFollow Elizabeth on Twitterhttps://twitter.com/ebchoreoTickets for the show in Petersfield on 9th November:https://petersfieldmuseum.digitickets.co.uk/event-tickets/43026?catID=34086Other interesting stuff:https://www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk//https://www.phoenixarts.co.uk/https://www.bookdepository.com/author/Isadora-DuncanAnd a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

Clara Schumann, a pianist, composer and piano teacher.  And wife of Robert Schumann.Clara Wieck had a fascinating life- a child prodigy, like Mozart before her she was touring as a concert pianist under the watchful eye of her domineering father from a very young age.  She went on to marry Robert, have eight children and continue to work in the male dominated world of classical music until she died aged 76 having survived all but two of her children.Elena Mazzon is an actress and musician whose play,  "Clara, Sex, Love & Classical Music"  won rave reviews on its world tour and after a two year pandemic-related hiatus will be at the 2022 Edinburgh Festival Fringe.  You can see the show at the award-winning Pianodrome during its residency at the Old Royal High on Calton Hill. Fringe Ticket Link:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/clara-sex-love-and-classical-musicElena Mazzon:https://www.elenamazzon.com/ Stefania Passamonte:http://stefaniapassamonte.com/Further Reading:"Clara  Schumann" by Nancy B. Reich"Clara" by Janice GallowayPresenter:  Lottie WalkerGuest:  Elena MazzonEditor:  Jacob TaylorMusic: Clara Schumann, Romance Opus 11 no. 1 played by Stefania Passamonte And a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcastEpisode is Live

Ally Sloper's Half-Holiday was the name of a weekly comic strip which first appeared on 3 May 1884.   Before Superman, Spiderman, Desperate Dan and  Dennis the Menace came Ally Sloper.  From 1884 until the 1920s, the red-nosed social climber who poked fun at the English people and their customs was a household name and national favourite.Ally Sloper takes us into the realms of the first comic strip character whole Beano and Dandy. This comic strip started it all. Here is a man who became an institution, a national hero. People actually believed that he existed, they even wrote to him and joined his club. There were medals presented in his name.He represented the hopes and aspirations of a whole new class of people, brought about by the industrial revolution. The aristocracy was under threat and the perennial class dilemma was at the fore.Chris Harris and Chris Denys wrote this show based on Sloper, originally performed by Chris Harris.  Ally Sloper is not brought to life by Steve Taylor.  the play takes us to  Ascot, Lords and the Summer Exhibition.  The running gag throughout the play is the arrival (or not!) of Queen Victoria.  We thought it appropriate to release this audio drama during the Platinum Jubilee weekend of her great, great granddaughter Queen Elizabeth II.Ally Sloper - Steve TaylorStudio Recording & Production - Harry Jacobsassisted by - Jacob TaylorMusic - James Hall   https://www.jamesahall.co.uk/And a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

The British Music Hall Society's annual online celebration of "Music Hall and Variety Day" is on 16th May.  It's an annual online event now in its third year where all sorts of videos, audio recordings, pictures, posters and anecdotes are shared.  It's great fun and a really good excuse to sort out the archives and take a look to see what's hidden at the back of your sock drawer!Don't forget the hashtags #MHVD and #musichallvarietydayWe've recorded this special episode as part of the proceedings and it features some of the BMHS Committee giving an insight into their thoughts about Music Hall and/or Variety and how they got involved with it all.The British Music Hall Society:  http://britishmusichallsociety.com/Follow the BMHS on twitter https://twitter.com/musichallsoc   and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/British-Music-Hall-Society-Home-of-Music-Hall-Variety-282967823195Featured voices are:Adam BorzoneGeoff BowdenDean CastonPeter CharltonJohn OrchardChristine PadwickDavid ReedBen StockAlison YoungLottie WalkerEditor:  Jacob TaylorMusic is played by  James Hall https://www.jamesahall.co.uk/Music taken from:Nelly Power's Songs to the Gallery & Champagne Charlie's Music Hall Hits, both available to stream on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, etc....  or buy the CD here:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreAnd a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

Who was Fred Karno?  and what was his army?We talk to David Crump whose biography of today's subject reveals all - and some!Karno was a giant personality who had a giant effect on theatre and cinema as we know it.  The man who gave  Stan Laurel, Charlie Chaplin and the Crazy Gang their first break and almost single handedly invented the type of slapstick we recognise in the silent movies had an eventful life that was touched by many of the major events of the first part of the 20th Century.David's book is available from all good booksellers and direct from the publisher (best option if ordering from outside the UK)https://www.brewinbooks.com/fred_karnoThis episode:Guest:  David CrumpHost:  Lottie WalkerEditor:  Jacob TaylorFollow David on Twitter:  https://mobile.twitter.com/davidbcrumpTo find out more about music hall:http://britishmusichallsociety.com/If you'd like to help us in our work to keep the podcast going do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to either: https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreor  - if you don't want to commit to a regular donation,  you can buy us a coffee at:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreThis is all an expensive business and even the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio.  We really appreciate and are so grateful for all your support.And don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!  Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/ 

Back in the dark days of Lockdown number 2 at the end of 2020 Lottie and Linda were enjoying the TV series Harlots.  Whilst chatting about it Lottie remembered seeing the blue plaque that is dedicated to Priss Fotheringham, the "second best whore in London".  And the idea for a podcast episode was born!For reasons many and varied it's taken us a whole year to bring the episode to you and we do hope you enjoy it.  It's not been all beer and skittles (or ping pong balls!) for sex workers through the ages, though.  In fact the life for the (mainly women) involved in the trade is often very grim indeed. More than any other episode this one has brought home to us just how little anything changes from one century to the next.  We are very grateful to Moira Buffini, writer of Harlots and Lyn Brown MP for their contributions.Further reading:Nell Gwyn, by Charles BeauclerkCity of Sin, London and its Vices, by Catharine ArnoldMadams - Bawds and Brothel Keepers of London, by Fergus LinnaneAn English Madam:  The Life and Work of Cynthia Payne, by Paul BaileyInteresting Viewing:Harlots, by Alison Newman & Moira Buffini available on DVD and to streamPersonal Services, by David Leland, available on DVD and to streamThis episode:Hosts:  Lottie Walker & Linda HansellGuests:  Moira Buffini  & Lyn Brown MPFarewell to Bankside read by Steve Taylor Editor:  Jacob TaylorIf you'd like to help us in our work to keep the podcast going do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to either:  https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatre or https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatre where you can donate.  This is all an expensive business and even the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio.  We really appreciate and are so grateful for all your support. And don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!  Find us at: https://twitter.com/famous_heard https://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatre https://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/  

Amanda Ira Aldridge, one of the most important female composers of the 20th century has been all but forgotten.Daughter of the groundbreaking actor Ira Aldridge,  Amanda, was also a singer and in her latter years a voice teacher.  One of her pupils was Paul Robeson who approached her when he cane to  the UK to play Othello.  He was only the second black actor to play the role.  Amanda's father Ira had been the first!Under the name Montague Ring, Amanda was a composer of many songs and her instrumental music was used in the silent movies.Image courtesy of Stephen Bourne.Guest:  Stephen BourneStephen Bourne is a writer, film and social historian specialising in black heritage and gay culture. His best-known book is Black Poppies – Britain's Black Community and the Great War.   Stephen's most recent publication is Deep Are the Roots , which  celebrates the pioneers of black British theatre, beginning in 1825 when Ira Aldridge made history as the first black actor to play Shakespeare's Othello in the United Kingdom, and ending in 1975 with the success of Britain's first black-led theatre company.  Stephen has written extensively on Amanda Ira Aldridge. https://stephenbourne.co.uk/For a list of Stephen's books:https://stephenbourne.co.uk/books/Follow Stephen on Twitter: https://twitter.com/blackpoppies14Featuring:  Patricia Hammond https://patriciahammond.com/ youtube.com/patriciahammondsongsPatricia's book on female composers features a chapter dedicated to Amanda Ira Aldridgehttps://www.valleypressuk.com/book/126/she_wrote_the_songs Follow Patricia on Twitter:https://twitter.com/hammondpatricia Music: Patricia Hammond, VoiceMatt Redman, zither banjoAndrea Kmecova,  pianoHost:  Lottie WalkerEditor:  Jacob TaylorAnd a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

For this special episode  we've moved away from talking about our long forgotten heroes of history to talk to our very much up to date  award winning theatre-maker - and hero -  Christopher Green.Christopher is a huge advocate of theatre as an experience and of the "all the world's a stage" ethos.  In this conversation we talk about experiential theatre, site-specific productions and  why  clear instructions for both audience and performers would make the theatre experience more accessible and  comfortable for everyone.We also talk about Christopher's creations Ida Barr and Tina C, and, of course Fred Barnes, the self-destructive music hall star who Christopher has played on several occasions. Follow Christopher on Twitter:  @kit_greenhttp://christophergreen.net/https://www.artbanklive.com/https://www.duckie.co.uk/Guest:  Christopher GreenHost:  Lottie WalkerEditor:  Jacob TaylorAnd a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

Fred Barnes was a huge star in his time, but his fame, fortune and undeniable glamour hid a tragic story and self-destructive nature.Christopher Green and John Orchard talk to Lottie about Fred Barnes'  tragic life and death, how he has been almost written out of history and their own projects to bring him back into popular culture.A blue plaque to Fred Barnes will be unveiled on 18th October 2021 at his home  - 22, Clifton Villas, Maida Vale, London W9.Further Reading and information about Music Hall:http://www.britishmusichallsociety.com/Twitter:  @musichallsocThree Queer Lives:  An Alternative Biography of Fred Barnes, Naomi Jacob and Arthur Marshall by Paul BaileyPublished by Hamish HamiltonAnd about our guests:http://christophergreen.net/Twitter: @kit_greenhttps://www.duckie.co.uk/https://www.singalongajohn.com/Twitter:  Sing-Along-A-JohnMusic:  John Orchard & Christopher GreenAudio of "Music Hall Monster" by permission of Christopher GreenHost:  Lottie WalkerEditor:  Jacob TaylorAnd a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

Vesta Tilley was possibly the most famous male impersonator of all time and a huge star of the Victorian Music Hall.  The girl from Worcester, who was treading the boards from the age of 3 was also the wife of an MP and "Britain's best recruiting sergeant" during WW1.In this episode Ann-Lindsey Wickens tells us what it's like to portray this iconic figure, and Vesta's history is told - in brief by Chris Jaeger, author of "Vesta" the one woman play about Lady De Fries as she became.And we also hear from Jessica Dannheiser, composer of "Orchestral Portraits:  Seven Pioneering Women" about the inspiration Vesta provided.  Huge thanks to Jessica and to Audio Network for permission to use this music.To find out more about Vesta Tilley & Music Hall:http://www.britishmusichallsociety.com/http://www.vestatilley.kk5.org/http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/To find out more about our guests:http://www.jessicadannheisser.com/Twitter: @jessdannheiserhttps://www.godauk.org/chrisjaegerhttps://www.worcesterfestival.co.uk/Twitter: @chrisjaegerWFhttps://katapultproductions.co.uk/https://www.golr.org.uk/Host:  Lottie WalkerEditor:  Jacob TaylorAnd a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

"The Diary of a Nobody" has long been a favourite book of both Tim Shaw and Andy Smith.  They've seen it on stage, listened to it on the radio and, of course, read it.So one rainy August day in Edinburgh after seeing Rodney Bewes in his on man version of 3 Men in a Boat and over a small sherry or two they hit upon the idea of adapting Charles Pooter's  diary into a one man play.  Andy reprised his role as Pooter for the specially recorded version of the play for this podcast,  And here he and Tim, a genuine Grossmith enthusiast  talk about the process of adapting the book and their shared love of the piece.Lots of additional information about George Grossmith can be found on our podcast episode 15.Guests:  Andy Smith & Tim ShawHost:  Lottie WalkerEdited by:  Jacob TaylorMusic:  James Hallhttps://www.jamesahall.co.uk/And a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you! Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefirepodcast

This season's audio drama is :The Diary of a Nobody, by George & Weedon Grossmith, said by Evelyn Waugh to be the "funniest book ever written".The book has never been out of print and is available at all good bookshops.This adaptation is by Tim Shaw.  It is directed by Steve TaylorCharles Pooter - Andy SmithCarrie - Lottie WalkerLupin - Steve TaylorStudio Recording,  Production  & Editing- Harry JacobsAssisted by  - Jacob TaylorMusic - James Hallhttps://www.jamesahall.co.uk/And a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.Don'tAnd finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you! Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc

George Grossmith created many of Gilbert and Sullivan's comic baritone roles and was known for his delivery of the famous patter songs.He was also a writer and composer who entertained royalty in the parlours of palaces and a journalist who spent time as a Bow Street Court reporter.  And, together with his brother Weedon he was responsible for producing "The Diary of a Nobody", which has never been out of print.  It was hailed by Evelyn Waugh as being the "funniest book ever written".  And will be our audio drama for this series.Stephen Wade's career has mirrored that of George in many ways and he talks to us about the strange similarities they share as well as George's life and work amidst the backdrop of the Victorian era.Stephen's biography of George (and indeed this conversation) mention in passing many of the great and the good of the era from Henry Irving to Dan Leno.Guest:  Stephen WadeHost:  Lottie WalkerEditor:  Jacob TaylorFind out more about Stephen at:https://stephen-wade.com/Other Related websites:ttps://www.gilbertandsullivansociety.org.ukhttps://www.idler.co.uk/http://www.doylycarte.org.uk/https://www.simonbutteriss.com/home.htmlhttps://www.dalesman.co.uk/https://www.facebook.com/CoilyDartTheatrehttps://www.gsarchive.net/And a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreif you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatreEven the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.  And finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you! Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc

The original "greatest showman" was not P.T. Barnum, it was a chap from Newcastle Under Lyme in Staffordshire, who went by the name Philip Astley.  Astley was a soldier and talented equestrian who went on to invent what we now recognise as the modern day circus.  His story is one of the many that prove that truth is stranger (certainly more remarkable) than fiction.Andrew Van Buren hails from the world of circus and a very theatrical family.  He's a true all round entertainer and is passionate about both his hometown of Newcastle Under Lyme and the heritage of his industry.  So who better to spearhead the "Philip Astley Project", the initiative that is helping Astley do for Newcastle what Shakespeare did for Stratford...?Andrew talks to us about Astley's history, the beginnings of the van Buren family's showbusiness life and the incredible journey he's taken to get Astley recognised - and to get Newcastle back on the map.And if that's not enough, Chris Barltrop, actor and ringmaster extraoirdinaire gives us a taster of his performance as "The Audacious Mr Astley"Further info:Guest:  Andrew van BurenFeaturing: Chis BarltropHost:  Lottie WalkerEditor:  Jacob TaylorAndrew van Burenhttps://www.vanburen.org.uk/Philip Astley Projecthttps://www.philipastley.org.uk/ Chris Barltrop - the Centre for Circus Culturehttps://www.centreforcircusculture.org/Andy Edwards:https://www.cornoviiedwards.com/homeMonte Carlo International Circus Festivalhttps://www.montecarlofestival.mc/en/AstleyFest 2021https://www.newcastleunderlyme.org/events/2198/Gandey's Circushttps://www.gandeyscircus.com/Karl Shaw: - The First Showman, The Extraordinary Mr. Astleyhttps://thesusijnagency.com/karl-shaw/Follow Andrew & Chris on Twitter:@VanBurenOrg@Astley250And a note from us:Thank you for listening.   If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going and the memories of all these lovely people alive, do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to :https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatre if you're more comfortable with a one off donation you can do this via our website:https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/or buy us a coffee on:https://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatre Even the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful for all your help and support.Don'tAnd finally...don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!  Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc

Margaret Monod talks about her blog, "Into the Limelight" and her fabulous collection of Music Hall postcards .Today's Podcast:Host:  LottieGuest: Margaret MonodEdited By:  Jacob TaylorMusic: James HallThis is a special bonus episode broadcast specially for the British Music Hall Society's Music Hall & Variety DayFollow Margaret on Twitter:  @monomaniablogsTo find out more about Music Hall check out:The British Music Hall Societyhttp://www.britishmusichallsociety.com/The PlayBill Podcasthttps://mail8935.wixsite.com/montagueandtweedMusic Hall Alice Bloghttps://musichallalice.wordpress.com/If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going  and our shows on the road do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to either:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreorhttps://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatrewhere you can donate.   Even the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so gratefulOr donate via our website, where you can find out much more about us and the other work we dohttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/And don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!  Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tcEpisode is LivePublished: Apr. 05, 2021 @11AM EditUnpublishAdd a TranscriptGet episode better indexed by search engines.Add Chapter MarkersListeners can tap through & see what’s coming up.Create a Visual SoundbiteBest way to share to social media for engagement.Share Episode OnFacebookTwitterLinkedInMore OptionsEmail Link to Episode CopyDirect Link to MP3 Copy Download MP3Embed this ONE Episode

Welcome back to "Famous People You've Never Heard Of"!We've some fabulous guests talking about some truly fabulous people and hope that you enjoy finding out about them all.Some of our contributors this season are:Stephen BourneLyn Brown MPMoira BuffiniChristopher GreenJohn OrchardAndrew van BurenAnd some of our wonderful subjects are:Vesta Tilley, Billy Waters, Philip Astley, Fred Barnes, Amanda Aldridge and George GrossmithWe've been having a wonderful time producing these podcasts and feedback has been excellent.  It seems that there are an awful lot of people out there with an interest in social history and forgotten heroes.  So thank you for staying with us. And thank you for joining us if you're a newbie joining in at Series 2. If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to either:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreorhttps://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatrewhere you can donate.  This is all an expensive business and even the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio.We really appreciate and are so grateful for all your support.And don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!  Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/We're so looking forward to bringing you some fabulous treats with this new seriesStay safe and take care everyone.

A short message to reassure our listeners that you're not abandoned!We've had a slight delay but Series Two will be up and running soon.In the meantime, check out the show notes for all of Series One , which  have been updated and do use this downtime to catch up on any episodes you've missed.  If you want to revisit Episodes 3 and 4 (the ones that missed out on the all singing all dancing technology when we first broadcast)  please do.  They are both very popular episodes:  No. 3  (new version number 11) is Paterson Joseph talking about Charles Ignatius Sancho and No . 4 (new version number 12)  is Alison Young talking about Daisy Dormer.  And you can now hear them without the added interest of what sounded like (but wasn't) a washing machine in the background.We've been having a wonderful time producing these podcasts and feedback has been excellent.  It seems that there are an awful lot of people out there with an interest in social history and forgotten heroes.  So thank you for staying with us.  If you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to either:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreorhttps://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatrewhere you can donate.  This is all an expensive business and even the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio.We really appreciate and are so grateful for all your support. And don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!  Find us at: https://twitter.com/famous_heard https://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatre https://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc https://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/We're so looking forward to bringing you some fabulous treats in the shape of Series 2 shortly!  Stay safe and take care everyone.

Alison Young is the Secretary of the British Music Hall Society.  She ran away from the law to research and write about her family connections with the Music Hall and has uncovered many little gems that she shares with us today."Dainty Daisy Dormer" was a Music Hall star.  She was also Alison's great great aunt.  She and her sisters toured around the UK  - and much further afield entertaining audiences in the thousands of music hall theatres that existed in the late 19th/early 20th centuries.As well as Daisy and Co., Alison talks about the art of Sickert, Degas, Lautrec and others who painted backstage scenes in theatres and music halls  and gives an insight into the non-glamorous world of 19th/20th Century showbusiness.Guest's fantasy dinner party guests:Morten HarketQueen VictoriaLaura KnightWalter SickertMax WallFor further info:Alison's Blog:  Music Hall Alice:https://musichallalice.wordpress.com/The British Music Hall Societyhttp://britishmusichallsociety.com/The British Newspaper Archive:https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/My Old Man, A  Personal History of Music HallBy:  John MajorPublished by Harper CollinsBritish Music Hall: an Illustrated HistoryBy:  Richard Anthony BakerPublished by:  Pen & Sword BooksMusic:  "Champagne Charlie"  by Alfred Lee & George LeybournePlayed by:  James Hallhttps://www.jamesahall.co.uk/"I Wouldn't Leave My Little Hut For You" by Charles Collins & Tom MellorPlayed by :  Guy DeardonISRC number. GB3GU1200723Copyright owner Guy Deardenhttps://www.theatremusicshop.com/index.htmlEpisode edited and produced by: Jacob TaylorIf you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to either:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreorhttps://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatrewhere you can donate.   Even the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful to you for all your support.And don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!  Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/

Today's episode features writer and actor Paterson Joseph, author of the play "Sancho, An Act of Remembrance", which he has been performing for some 10 years and brings back to the theatre next year.   He has also recently completed a book about  Sancho, this incredible man who was born on a slave ship in the Atlantic and died a businessman in London. Sancho's life was lived to the full: he composed popular music, corresponded with the great and the good of the day and became the first man of African heritage to vote in a UK general election.    Looking at the world through Sancho's eyes we see a strange place of terrible inequality yet great opportunity, we are forced to address the issues of slavery and racism but also come upon acts of great kindness and discover a true love story.  It is a brief glimpse of London in the 18th Century "in colour".Probably best known as an actor Paterson Joseph has appeared in lead roles with the RSC and National Theatre.  His TV work is extensive and includes Peep Show, Casualty, Green Wing and most recently the BBC's Noughts and Crosses.   Photo:  Robert Day - Paterson Joseph as Ignatius Sancho"Sancho, An Act of Remembrance" , by Paterson Joseph is published by Oberon Modern Plays"Julius Caesar and Me, Exploring Shakespeare's African Play", by Paterson Joseph  is published by Methuen Drama"Britain's Black Past" and "Black London: Life Before Emancipation", by Gretchen Gerzina:https://gretchengerzina.com/about-gretchen-gerzina.htmlGuest's fantasy dinner party guests:Charles Ignatius SanchoAnne IgnatiusJulius YerereEpisode produced and edited by Jacob TaylorMusic by  Charles Ignatius SanchoIf you'd like to help us in our work in keeping the podcast going do please consider becoming a patron.  It's really easy to do, just go to either:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreorhttps://ko-fi.com/bluefiretheatrewhere you can donate.   Even the smallest donation helps us get our shows on the road and keep the lights on in the studio and we are so grateful And don't forget to follow us on social media.  We'd love to hear from you!  Find us at:https://twitter.com/famous_heardhttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/

Nelly Power was a huge star of music hall who is now pretty much forgotten.In 2017/18 Blue Fire's Lottie Walker was researching the life of Marie Lloyd when she discovered Nelly, who was in fact the first person to sing the famous song "The Boy I Love Is Up in the Gallery". And made it her mission to get Ms Power the recognition she deserves. By 2019 J.J. Leppink had written the one woman play, "Marie Lloyd Stole My Life" for Lottie to take to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. since the show has been back to Nelly's hometown of Islington, playing at the Islington Museum and also at The Old Red Lion theatre, a space very similar to what Nelly herself would have recognised.In this episode we learn a little about the real Nelly and meet the team behind the creation of the show, which has been mothballed in lockdown but will return to the stage in 2021.To find out more about Music Hall:The British Music Hall Society : http://britishmusichallsociety.com/Into the Limelight: https://intothelimelight.org/ Contributors:Edz BarrettJames HallLinda HansellZoe Harvey-LeeJ.J. LeppinkLottie WalkerEditor: Jacob TaylorMusic: James HallWe'd love you to keep in touch with us. You can find us at:https://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc/https://twitter.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/And if you'd like to find out a little more about us and support us in our work, please click here:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreWe'll be forever grateful.

Marie Lloyd, Queen of the Music Hall was a force of nature with a larger than life personality.At one time the highest paid act in the country, she sang a string of hit songs including "Oh, Mr Porter" and "Don't Dilly Dally on the Way".Finding fame at the age of 15 she spent the next 40 years entertaining on the music halls and vaudeville theatres around the globe. Her life was every bit as lively offstage as it was on. She experienced extreme wealth and extreme poverty, 3 marriages and 2 divorces (and the marriage in between didn't end happily either!).In this episode we tell you about Maries life and discuss what might have made her tick with two women who know her better than most: Marie Kelly, who has performed as Marie Lloyd many times and Midge Gillies, author of what we think is the definitive biography of this unique character.Guest: Midge Gillies Follow Midge on Twitter: @midgegillies"Marie Lloyd the One and Only", by Midge Gillies, "Amy Johnson, Queen of the Air", by Midge GilliesThe Royal Literary Fund https://www.rlf.org.uk/The Institute of Continuing Education, Cambridge University: https://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/Guest: Marie KellyFollow Marie on Twitter:@mariekellyTKatapult Theatre: https://katapultproductions.co.uk/Dover Youth Theatre: http://www.doveryouththeatre.co.uk/Music: Marie KellyEditor: Jacob TaylorWe'd love you to keep in touch with us. You can find us at:https://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc/https://twitter.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/And if you'd like to find out a little more about us and support us in our work, please click here:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreWe'll be forever grateful.

Alice Thornton was an ordinary, if somewhat well to do woman of the 17th century.She lived through the time of Plague, the Great Fire of London, the English Civil War and the Restoration. But as the old saying says "there are no troubles as big as your own" and Alice's troubles (indeed tragedies), which were many are what she recorded in her diary.Dr Debbie Cannon, who is a writer and actor created her one person play, "The Remarkable Deliverances of Alice Thornton for the Being Human Festival in 2019. She was inspired by the research of Dr Cordelia Beattie of Edinburgh University and both talk to us about discovering Alice and her reintroduction to society some 400 years since her death.Guest: Debbie CannonGuest Contributor: Cordelia BeattieEditor: Jacob TaylorWe'd love you to keep in touch with us. You can find us at:https://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc/https://twitter.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/And if you'd like to find out a little more about us and support us in our work, please click here:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreWe'll be forever grateful.

Just before Christmas 2020 we had a jolly conversation with Kate Griffin, author of the "Kitty Peck" novels about her interest in music hall.Kate tells us about her love of theatre, how she fell in love with music hall and Jenny Hall, the real artiste that Kitty Peck is based on. We also talk about principal boys, theatre ghosts and what pantomime was like in days gone by.The "Kitty Peck" books are published by Faber and Faber:Kitty Peck and the Music Hall MurdersKitty Peck and the Child of Ill FortuneKitty Peck and the Daughter of SorrowKitty Peck and the Parliament of Shadows

William Shakespeare, arguably the greatest playwright the world has ever known; and Miguel de Cervantes, arguably the greatest writer in Spanish history and author of the first modern novel died on the same day. Or did they...?In 2016, to mark the 400th anniversary of this occasion the BBC commissioned Jonathan Holloway to write this play, set in Shakespeare's house on 23rd April 1616. An irreverent commentary on an imagined conversation between two giants of literature (and the maid) "Big Time" is produced for Blue Fire Theatre Co. with the kind permission of the author and the BBC. It was originally produced as a Radio 4 Play of the Week and is available here until Christmas 2021.BIG TIME by Jonathan HollowayOriginally commissioned and produced by kind permission of the BBC.William Shakespeare: John CraggsMiguel de Cervantes: Daniel WainRegina: Julie DavisDirected by: Steve TaylorStudio Recording & Production by: Harry Jacobsassisted by : Jacob TaylorOriginal music composed by: Jacob TaylorhZVQDbeFg4BFTTGLxj15hZVQDbeFg4BFTTGLxj15

Renata Kobetts Miller is Professor of English and Deputy Dean of Humanities and the Arts at the City College of New York.Her book, "The Victorian Actress in the Novel and on the Stage" begins in the 1830s and ends in the 1910s. It looks at how Victorian novels and plays used the actress, who was a significant figure for the relationship between women and the public sphere, to define their own place within and among genres and in relation to audiences. It traces a cultural history of the actress that led actresses to appropriate the pen themselves by becoming suffragette playwrights and writing new social roles for women, and Elizabeth Robins was one of the women who did that. Elizabeth Robins was a problem solver. Someone who developed new abilities and worked in different modes to bring about change. An American who felt a strong attraction to London and its culture. Guest's Fantasy Dinner Party Guests:Mary Wollstonecraft, author of A Vindication of the Rights of Woman (1792) George Eliot, her favorite 19th-century novelist and a figure of great import to women writers who followed after her Frances E. W. Harper, 19th-century American suffragist and abolitionist Heidi Schreck, playwright of the current play What the Constitution Means to Me, which follows on Robins’s Votes for Women in it’s focus on the act of women speaking and in it’s use of the drama to emphasize the concerns of women’s bodies Following the recent election in the United States and the election of the first women to serve as Vice President: Kamala Harris. Women who came before her would be interested in speaking with her and she could also benefit from the wisdom of women who had struggled before her. Further Reading: 2 biographies of Robins: Angela V. John, Elizabeth Robins, Staging a Life 1862-1952 Joanne E. Gates’s Elizabeth Robins, 1862-1952: Actress, Novelist, Feminist. Naomi Paxton’s book Stage Rights!: The Actresses’ Franchise League, activism, and politics 1908-58 Episode edited and produced by: Jacob TaylorMusic :The Woman's Party Song. With thanks to Jane Scolieri (performer) and The Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley for the copy of the music written for piano by Anita Pollitzer.1908 Sugffragette rally speech, with thanks to the British Library.We'd love you to keep in touch with us. You can find us at:https://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc/https://twitter.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/And if you'd like to find out a little more about us and support us in our work, please click here:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreWe'll be forever grateful.

Alison Young is the Secretary of the British Music Hall Society. She ran away from the law to research and write about her family connections with the Music Hall and has uncovered many little gems that she shares with us today."Dainty Daisy Dormer" was a Music Hall star. She was also Alison's great great aunt. She and her sisters toured around the UK - and much further afield entertaining audiences in the thousands of music hall theatres that existed in the late 19th/early 20th centuries.As well as Daisy and Co., Alison talks about the art of Sickert, Degas, Lautrec and others who painted backstage scenes in theatres and music halls and gives an insight into the non-glamorous world of 19th/20th Century showbusiness.For further info:Alison's Blog: Music Hall Alice:https://musichallalice.wordpress.com/The British Music Hall Societyhttp://britishmusichallsociety.com/The British Newspaper Archive:https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/My Old Man, A Personal History of Music HallBy: John MajorPublished by Harper CollinsBritish Music Hall: an Illustrated HistoryBy: Richard Anthony BakerPublished by: Pen & Sword BooksMusic: "Champagne Charlie" by Alfred Lee & George LeybournePlayed by: James Hallhttps://www.jamesahall.co.uk/"I Wouldn't Leave My Little Hut For You" by Charles Collins & Tom MellorPlayed by : Guy DeardonISRC number. GB3GU1200723Copyright owner Guy Deardenhttps://www.theatremusicshop.com/index.htmlEpisode edited and produced by: Jacob TaylorWe'd love you to keep in touch with us. You can find us at:https://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc/https://twitter.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/And if you'd like to find out a little more about us and support us in our work, please click here:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreWe'll be forever grateful.

Today's episode features writer and actor Paterson Joseph, author of the play "Sancho, An Act of Remembrance", which he has been performing for some 10 years and brings back to the theatre next year. He has also recently completed a book about Sancho, this incredible man who was born on a slave ship in the Atlantic and died a businessman in London. Sancho's life was lived to the full: he composed popular music, corresponded with the great and the good of the day and became the first man of African heritage to vote in a UK general election. Looking at the world through Sancho's eyes we see a strange place of terrible inequality yet great opportunity, we are forced to address the issues of slavery and racism but also come upon acts of great kindness and discover a true love story. It is a brief glimpse of London in the 18th Century "in colour".Probably best known as an actor Paterson Joseph has appeared in lead roles with the RSC and National Theatre. His TV work is extensive and includes Peep Show, Casualty, Green Wing and most recently the BBC's Noughts and Crosses. He brings "Sancho, An Act of Remembrance" to the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith in February 2021Photo: Robert Day - Paterson Joseph as Ignatius Sancho"Sancho, An Act of Remembrance" is published by Oberon Modern Plays"Julius Caesar and Me, Exploring Shakespeare's African Play", also by Paterson Joseph is published by Methuen Plays"Sancho, An Act of Remembrance" at the Lyric Hammersmith:https://lyric.co.uk/shows/sancho-an-act-of-remembrance/Episode produced and edited by Jacob TaylorMusic by Charles Ignatius SanchoWe'd love you to keep in touch with us. You can find us at:https://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc/https://twitter.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/And if you'd like to find out a little more about us and support us in our work, please click here:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreWe'll be forever grateful.

Author and playwright David Slattery Christy, talks to us about his grandfather, Reg Pratley.Reg's story shines a light on the social history of the early 20th Century. From growing up in a sleepy Oxfordshire village via a short spell in the Royal Navy, Reg Pratley ended up managing one of the largest and most prestigious travelling fairgrounds in England. His story is part Mills and Boon romance, part Boy's Own Adventure and part historical drama. We also learn about David's new play about Ivor Novello and his leading ladies discussing the closure of the theatres - in 1939! Who better to document this episode than David, the man who was the Novello advisor to the Gosford Park movie? And all sorts of other topics are also covered, from the design of a department store to the Music Hall life of Dan Leno and the late Roy Hudd.Mainly, though, this episode is about Reg Pratley, a remarkable character who literally ran away to join the fair and never looked back. We hope you enjoy Reg's story and that you'll share, rate and review us so that more people can "meet" him.For additional information :https://www.carterssteamfair.co.uk/:https://www.londonsongfestival.org/concerts-1https://www.christyplays.co.uk/https://www.bookdepository.comhttps://twitter.com/DSCAuthorhttps://twitter.com/CartersFairhttps://www.facebook.com/danlenoaroyaljesterWe'd love you to keep in touch with us, too:https://www.instagram.com/bluefire_tc/https://twitter.com/bluefire_tchttps://www.facebook.com/bluefiretheatrehttps://www.bluefiretheatre.co.uk/And if you'd like to support us in our work and receive our undying gratitude, just please click here:https://www.patreon.com/bluefiretheatreMusic:Additional Music and SFX from https://www.zapsplat.comMusic composed by Adam A. JohnsonEpisode Produced By: Jacob Taylor

Here's what to expect in our first series of "Famous People You've Never Heard Of"Amongst others our special guests this season include actor and writer Dr Debbie Cannon, author David Slattery Christy and actor and writer Paterson Joseph. Join us as they take us on journeys into the past to discover tales of fame, fortune and failure in the worlds of theatre, music and other areas of entertainment.And don't forget to tune in to our "Christmas Special" audio drama, "Big Time", by Jonathan Holloway, produced with kind permission of the BBC.