Eastcombe WI with Ladies of the Music Hall

THERE was a concern that, it being holiday season, this month’s meeting may have seen a sparse attendance.

Fortunately there was a good turnout, and all who attended thoroughly enjoyed the presentation, ‘Ladies of the Music Hall’ by Lorraine Parsloe.

Marie Lloyd and Vesta Tilley were the chosen performers.

Lorraine had obviously researched the ladies thoroughly, revealing uncanny similarities in their early lives and it was said of both, ‘Queen Mary did not approve!’ – Marie Lloyd for her perceived lewdness and ‘double entendres’, and Vesta Tilley for her impressive ability to present herself as a man.

The history of the Music Hall was revealed, interlaced with the life stories of the two ladies.

All of this along with renditions from each of their song repertoires, ably led by Lorraine, and enthusiastically accompanied by ourselves.

Songs such as ‘The Boy I Love Sits Up in the Gallery’, and ‘My Old Man said Follow the Van’ by Marie Lloyd, and ‘Burlington Bertie’, and ‘Piccadilly Johnny’ by Vesta.

Both ladies made their contributions along the way to charities, the world of performing art, and the war effort.

Sadly, their private lives were quite different.

The evening was informative and entertaining, and the audience participation, although not always tuneful, was enjoyed by all!

If you would enjoy involvement in our activities - please contact Margery Lambert (01453 886697, or email marglambert@btinternet.com) for further information and to arrange to sample one of our meetings.