The Red Letter at the Music Hall: Reviews from 1902-1914

This book reprints and analyzes reviews of music hall acts from the family magazine The Red Letter, which was published by D C Thomson from 1899 to 1987. The reviews cover theatres all over Britain and acts from around the world, from 1902 to 1914. They are uniquely detailed and shed light on the early acts of comics who would later achieve wider fame, as well as the acts of long-forgotten performers. The articles are arranged in sections, covering race, gender, character comedy, physical comedy, male comedy, and specialty or 'spesh acts. The reviews reveal the contents of the acts as well as the audience reactions and prevailing contemporary Edwardian attitudes. The articles are accompanied by their original illustrations, some of which are unique and unseen for over a century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 165 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book is a remarkable compilation of reviews and analyses of music hall acts from the esteemed family magazine, The Red Letter. Published by the Scottish-based firm D C Thomson from 1899 to 1987, The Red Letter was a cherished publication that catered to the interests of families across Britain. Spanning a period from 1902 to 1914, the reviews encompassed a wide range of theatres across Britain and showcased acts from around the world. What sets these reviews apart is their unparalleled depth and insight, offering a unique perspective on the early acts of comics who later achieved widespread fame, such as Will Hay and Robb Wilton. Additionally, the reviews shed light on the performances of long-forgotten performers, including female impersonator Albert Letine, comedy magician Chris van Bern, and female stand-up Anna Dorothy, among many others. These so-called "wines and spirits acts," although not necessarily the main attractions, played an important role in the vibrant world of music hall entertainment. The articles in this book are organized into various sections, covering topics such as race, gender, character comedy, physical comedy, male comedy, and specialty or "spesh acts." Each section provides a comprehensive overview of the acts and their contents, as well as the audience reactions and prevailing contemporary Edwardian attitudes. What makes this book even more remarkable is the inclusion of original illustrations that accompany the articles. While some of these illustrations are familiar, others are unique and have been unseen for over a century. These illustrations not only enhance the visual appeal of the book but also provide a valuable historical context, capturing the essence of the music hall era. Overall, this book is a treasure trove of information and entertainment, offering a glimpse into the rich history of music hall performances and the individuals who made them famous. It is a must-read for anyone interested in theatre, comedy, or the cultural heritage of Britain.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030840273
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022