The book offers a captivating visual journey through America's entertainment scene from the late 1800s to the early 1930s, focusing on the vibrant world of vaudeville. Featuring photographs and brief biographies, it immerses readers in an era where live performances were a staple of popular culture, showcasing the dynamic variety and talent that defined this unique art form.
The narrative explores the life of a male ventriloquist who became a celebrated British Music Hall performer in the late 1930s, known for his act with dummies like Augustus Peabody, while dressed as a woman. His ambiguous gender presentation led many to believe he was female, despite his acknowledgment of his masculinity. Over time, he embraced a female identity both on and off stage, ultimately blurring the lines between his stage persona and real life, making him a notable figure in discussions of gender variance.
An Anthology of Writings on Film History
The book features a compilation of Anthony Slide's insightful writings on film and television history, spanning from the 1960s to the present. It covers a diverse range of subjects and notable figures, including Lillian Gish and Betty White, showcasing Slide's scholarly approach to popular culture. His unique sense of humor enriches the discussions, making the exploration of these historical figures and themes both informative and entertaining.
Focusing on the career of a British comedy legend, this volume chronicles Ted Ray's rise from Music Hall performer to a star of radio, television, and film. Known for his quick wit and humor, Ray gained national fame through his show "Ray's a Laugh" while continuing to engage audiences live. The book also highlights the contributions of his sons, particularly Andrew, who found success in film. This engaging narrative appeals to fans of 20th-century British stand-up comedy and the evolution of popular culture.
Focusing on the life and career of Ted Ray, this volume explores his rise to fame during the transition from British Music Hall to Variety entertainment. Renowned for his quick wit and humor, Ray became a household name through his radio show "Ray's a Laugh" and his performances across the UK. The book also highlights the contributions of his sons, particularly Andrew, who found success in film. This engaging narrative offers insights into 20th-century British stand-up comedy and the evolution of popular culture, making it a must-read for enthusiasts.
Arthur Askey, a vibrant and energetic comedian, became a beloved figure in 20th-century British entertainment. His career began in post-World War One concert parties, leading to significant radio success with the hit program Band Wagon in 1938 alongside Richard Murdoch. This show not only captivated listeners but also propelled Askey into film stardom, pantomime, and eventually television, marking him as one of Britain's most enduring entertainers known for his iconic catchphrases.
The narrative explores the life of a man who became a notable British Music Hall performer, blending ventriloquism with female impersonation. His act featured various dummies, especially Augustus Peabody, while he presented himself in women's clothing. Despite openly identifying as male, many perceived him as female, leading to a complex relationship with gender identity. Over time, he fully embraced a female persona, claiming to have undergone a sex change operation, which was untrue. His story highlights a unique instance of gender variance in performance art.
The life of Arthur Askey, a vibrant comedian famed for his catchphrases, unfolds from his post-World War One debut in seaside concert parties to his rise as a major entertainment figure in Britain. His collaboration with Richard Murdoch on the BBC radio program Band Wagon in 1938 catapulted him to fame, leading to a successful career in film, pantomime, and television. Askey's enduring popularity throughout the 20th century highlights his significant impact on British entertainment.
American women who contributed their talents to the silent film industry are still largely unrecognized, in spite of their great influence. This book details the lives and careers of America's first women directors, unveiling the history of those who, with little recognition, helped pave the way for females in the film industry today.