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Laurel and Hardy Hall Day
Mike Duckles and John Ullah I must tell you about what a fantastic time Dave Wilky and I had at the Hall Day over in Erdington (Birmingham) on Sunday 29th May. We arrived at the Forget Me Not Club at around lunchtime and were met with a typically warm Laughing Gravy welcome from our hosts John and Mandy. It was our first time at the club and we were both impressed by the spacious and comfortable layout (and great fish and chips!). Once we had refreshed ourselves at the very reasonably priced bar we made our way to the dealers' tables before settling down as the films continued with an action-packed episode of Cheyenne, featuring Charlie Hall. We were joined throughout by Charlie's nephew and niece, who were there to view the proceedings (and also looked like they had a thoroughly good time). At this point there was a very talented and entertaining performance by two of the younger Laughing Gravy members, to the Boys' famous dance from Way Out West, which everyone agreed was very well done indeed. Dave Wyatt continued with a fascinating collection of clips featuring Charlie as well as a number of films featuring Thelma Todd, ZaSu Pitts and Patsy Kelly. The high point of this excellent film show was a screening (of the second reel, I think) of the previously "lost" Stan film When Knights Were Cold, which was accompanied by an astoundingly good live piano accompaniment. This was apparently one of Stan's favourite films and still stands the test of time as a genuinely funny film, with some very well put together swordplay and visual gags. Dave Wilky then proceeded to win the raffle not once but twice, and received his second prize to a variety of boos and hisses (from myself). The day finished with the loyal toasts, followed by the Sons' song. All in all, it had everything you could have wanted - rare films, live entertainment, a great venue and a cracking atmosphere. The whole day was very well organised and I really hope that John and Mandy do another one next year. If they do, we'll definitely be there! |
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