image: Roy Hudd as Max Miller, 2015 (credit JohnMcKenzie/ British Music Hall Society)

Saturday 16 May 2020: Launch of  Annual Music Hall and Variety Day
In tribute to Roy Hudd

The British Music Hall Society is calling on the world of theatre entertainment to pay tribute to Roy Hudd on Saturday, 16 May. Hudd was President of the Society for 28 years until his death last month, and the day marks his birthday.

Music Hall and Variety theatre fans are being invited to celebrate the day by sharing personal artifacts, collections and memories of the genre using the hashtag #musichallvarietyday

Chairman Adam Borzone said: “This year, more than ever, it is important to pay tribute to those we have lost. Roy Hudd brought joy to many during his lifetime. He was one of Music Hall’s most passionate and talented champions. It is fitting that the community he did so much for comes together and celebrates by sharing memories of this era.”

“We wish to make this an annual event and hope in the future Music Hall and Variety Day will be marked with further events including talks, shows and exhibitions.  This initiative presents an opportunity for performers, theatre historians, theatre collections and collectors to unite and engage with us in providing some entertainment and joy.”

Roy’s widow, Debbie, said: “I am delighted that the British Music Hall Society is paying tribute to Roy in this way. Roy loved Music Hall and Variety. He was honoured to be the President of the Society and was thrilled and delighted with the continuing work it does.”

Music Hall was one of the most popular forms of affordable British theatrical entertainment. It was popular from the early Victorian era, which faded away after 1918 and was re-branded as ‘Variety.’ The influences of this era of popular entertainment are still present today, such as Saturday evening talent contests, stand up and sketch comedy.

For more information, comment and interview options, please email: contact@britishmusichallsociety.com

The British Music Hall Society, a registered charity, was founded in 1963 to remember and celebrate Music Hall & Variety. The Society presents events, shows, talks, publishes the quarterly journal The Call Boy and has an extensive archive . To find out more about Music Hall and Variety Day please visit their website:

www.britishmusichallsociety.com

Follow them on Twitter @musichallsoc  or Facebook – British Music Hall Society.