Volume III of The Heaviest of Swells by Christopher Beeching had now been officially published and is available NOW on Amazon and all good booksellers.

What has been an intermittent 40-year journey has now reached its conclusion. Starting in 1984 as a solo show, it became a CD, a DVD, and now, a major three volume biography dedicated to the life, work, and times of George Leybourne, Lion Comique of the mid-Victorian Music Halls.

Christopher has shared some reviews of Volumes I & II of The Heaviest of Swells:

‘… paints a picture of the life and times of Leybourne and his fellow performers on the halls which really does live – greatly recommended.’ Catherine Comerford (Judge for STR Book Prize 2011, speaking at the Drury Lane awards presentation)

‘… your sheer enthusiasm for the subject shines through. … a major book here, a work of tremendous importance.’ Richard Anthony Baker author of British Music Hall reviewing Volume I of The Heaviest of Swells.

‘…the archival scrupulosity of a literary detective … Illuminating and delicious.’  Dr Peter Bailey, social historian and author.

‘… Chris Beeching’s prose rattles along merrily … richly illustrated with songs sheets, portraits and all manner of things.’ Peter Charlton music hall researcher and archivist reviewing Volume II.

‘… brings to life one of the dominant figures of the Victorian Music Hall, George Leybourne. … A valuable source for students of the Victorian scene for years to come while keeping readers vastly entertained.’ Laurence Senelick author of Jaques Offenbach and the Making of Modern Culture.

You can find out more about the biography and Christopher’s work on his website: The Heaviest of Swells