Updated February 3rd 2012

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for the picture gallery of the month for February 2012

THE NUTTY NUT NEWS NETWORK

PROUDLY PRESENTS THREE NEW INTERVIEWS

Rosina Lawrence Interviews

Rosina Lawrence 1983 Interview.  In the very first interview done for the Nutty Nut News Network, Hal Stanton, Grand Sheik of the Night Owls Tent of the Connecticut Valley, briefly chats with Laurel and Hardy co-star Rosina Lawrence. They discuss her appearance in the Charley Chase short "On the Wrong Trek" and her career as a dancer. Finally, Rosina talks about her falsetto singing for Stan in the 1937 classic "Way Out West".

Rosina Lawrence 1984 Interview with Steve Wichrowski, Jr.  In a brief interview recorded at the Sons 1984 International Convention in the UK, Rosina describes what she has enjoyed most about that convention.

Henry Brandon Interview 1984

Graham McKenna, Grand Sheik of the UK's Laughing Gravy Tent, conducts a noisy but interesting interview with Henry Brandon who relates an anecdote about Stan Laurel's input and direction on the set of 1934's "Babes in Toyland".  This interview was conducted at the 1984 Sons International Convention held in the UK.

The above interviews were all painstakingly digitally restored by Mike David.

*****

THE CHARLIE HALL PICTURE ARCHIVE
LOWEST PRICE EVER Only £8.49 *

*excluding postage if applicable.

FREE or REDUCED postage rates.  Free UK postage saving you £2.61, Europe £11 including postage (Airmail Printed Paper) saving you £3, Rest of world from £13.50 including postage, saving you £3.

The Charlie Hall Picture Archive

United Kingdom £8.49 GBP Europe £11.00 GBP Rest of World (Airmail) £15.00 GBP Rest of World (surface mail) £13.50 GBP

Charlie Hall Postcard Set

United Kingdom £3.50 GBP Europe £4.50 GBP Rest of World £5.00 GBP

Laurel and Hardy by Tom McGrath

United Kingdom £8.49 GBP Europe £9.49 GBP Rest of World £10.49 GBP

Click the banner below for further information.

*****

STAN LAUREL 1958-1965 (OCEANA)

Michael Ehret writes 'I'm looking for photos & documents of Stan Laurel at his residence 'OCEANA' in Santa Monica.  He lived there from 1958 until his death 1965.  I`m a collector and would pay for the original photo/document or for a high quality scan of it. Can anyone help me?'

If you can help Michael drop us a line using the link at the top of this page and we will forward your details to him.

*****

Tony Baker RIP

Popular landlord who met Laurel and Hardy dies, aged 92

TRIBUTES have been paid to a former pub landlord who once swapped hats with Laurel and Hardy.  Tony Baker, who owned pubs in Thorpe and Wix, had battled against illnesses for several months.  He died on January 6, aged 92.

The train enthusiast grew up in Kent and developed a love for steam engines at an early age.  He started working on the railways aged just 15, stoking the coals on the engines before becoming a relief driver three years later.  Tony also played a major part in popular 1930s film ‘Oh Mr Porter’, driving the runaway train in the movie, although he was never seen on screen.  During the Second World War he served with the Army in Egypt, before returning to the railways.

When Tony’s rail line reopened after the war, comedy duo Laurel and Hardy were invited to the ceremony.  His position as most senior driver meant Tony got to meet the stars, even swapping hats with Hardy.

After moving to Clacton with wife Esme, Tony took over the Maid’s Head pub in Thorpe.  They moved on to the White Hart at Wix before eventually retiring and moving to Frinton.

Esme said: “He was very lovable and he absolutely loved life.  He always wanted to do everything for anyone who asked, and he did so much for charity.  We both loved our time at the Maid’s Head, and Tony was the sort of landlord you don’t get anymore.  He would never let anyone sit alone at the bar and he got to know everyone.”  She added: “He was a real one off and very popular, and will be sadly missed.”

A funeral service takes place at Weeley Crematorium on Monday at 12.30pm.

From The Clacton Gazette.

Roger Robinson adds:
I have today received some very sad news. Tony Baker died on 6th January 2012 at the age of 92. Tony was the train driver on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway in Kent, England, when Laurel and Hardy visited on Friday 21st March 1947. Laurel and Hardy were there to re-open the section to Dungeness that had been closed to the public during the Second World War. The event was captured on newsreel film and shown to cinemagoers the following week. Most fans will be familiar with this clip and some out-takes which clearly capture the fun of the day - at one stage Ollie and Tony Baker do a hat exchanged. Tony often talked with great love and fondness about this occasion and remained a Laurel and Hardy fan for the rest of his life. He kept in touch with a few Sons of the Desert and everyone who met him knows what a thoroughly lovely chap he was and he had a wicked sense of humour. Up until very recently, he was still sending occasional E-Mails.

I spoke to to his wife, Esme, tonight. Tony and Esme did not have any children but Esme has been supported by friends and family. I have told her that on behalf of the Sons of the Desert we send her all our love and she was so pleased to know this.

A Pictorial collection of promotional ephemera 1929 to 2011.
-Foreword by Roger Robinson.
-Themed chapters, covering Food, DIY, Banking, Entertainment, etc.
-Over 500 illustrations.
-Fully indexed with over 460 entries.
-An appendix featuring a list of known TV adverts.
-A5 sized with nearly 400 pages of information.

Price £14, plus postage (UK Postage is £2.99).
A digital download will also be available in the near future.

Order direct from this link

25% off any of your books.  Coupon Code: LULUBOOKUK305.  Coupon expires 31 January 2012, £50 max savings.
 

The Producer of a new play called Way Out West, by Paul Hodson has been in touch to tell us the play is touring small venues around the UK until March 2012.  While the play is not ABOUT Laurel and Hardy it will be of interest to Laurel and Hardy fans as it is a surreal comedy about two men who appear to be visited by the spirits of Stan and Ollie.  The play description is as follows:

Two men walk into a pub - and then it stops being normal. 

Pints are drunk; conversation spans the creation of the universe, the meaning of happiness, the chemical construction of pork scratchings – and how they seem to know more about each other than complete strangers could, or should. And they both seem to recollect dreams in which they met Laurel and Hardy, and each other.
 

As the alcohol kicks in Sam and Harry find themselves lurching towards an unnerving philosophical and spiritual world, where it becomes a distinct possibility that they are Laurel and Hardy reincarnated... but that’s simply laughable, absurd and beyond comprehension – isn’t it?

This funny, tender, melancholic and puzzling play comes from the company who created recent hit shows Meeting Joe Strummer and Don’t Shoot The Clowns.

‘Glowing with warmth, humour and self-deprecation… sincere and inspiring’ The Metro on Meeting Joe Strummer

 

For tour venues and dates please visit

www.the-future-is-unwritten.co.uk

*****

Everyone here at The Nutty Nut News Network would like to echo the sentiments of The Laurel and Hardy Archive on Facebook and say ‘The basic principle for 2012 is THINK POSITIVE’.  As Gary Gold wrote on the Facebook group ‘I like to think of it as Stan and Babes core philosophy; no matter what problems or calamities lie ahead; never lose your optimism; determination and sense of humor! Nuff said!’

Felix Knight Interview 1990

In time for the holidays, here is a fascinating audio interview with "Babes in Toyland" star Felix Knight.

When first released, this 1990 interview caused somewhat of a stir due to Mr. Knight's comments on difficulties he experienced working with Oliver Hardy in this 1934 production.

Conducted by Laurel and Hardy author and Boston Brats Grand Sheik Scott MacGillivray, the interview also covers Mr. Knight's recollections of the atmosphere on "Babes in Toyland" (aka "March of the Wooden Soldiers") and his description of co-star Charlotte Henry and her unhappy life.

In addition to praising what he terms as the "genius" of Stan Laurel, Felix Knight also discusses his own work in other films and his connection with the Sons of the Desert.

The interview was recorded at the Sons 7th International Convention in Clearwater, Florida.

To listen

The above image showing the entire cast of Babes in Toyland is from the Mike David collection.

*****

Tyler St. Mark shares the above image on Facebook saying: This photo was taking in 1940 while the Boys were playing the Orpheum in Minneapolis.  They took time to visit the theatre dept. at University of Minnesota and have their picture taken with student cast members rehearsing the play, "Peer Gynt."

*****

LAUREL AND HARDY: A FUNNY STORY

Photo: Copyright 2011 EXIT Film- und Fernsehproduktion Kassel/Germany – www.exitfilm.tv

Michael Ehret writes:  Andreas Baum from exitfilm.tv informed about the 92-minute documentary "LAUREL AND HARDY: A FUNNY STORY“. It contains a lot of never-before-seen footage. The documentary will be broadcasted by the TV-station ARTE on December 28, 2011 in Germany and France (20:15).

Furthermore you´ll see a lot of Laurel and Hardy film clips, unpublished photographs, archive footage, film footage and documents. Interviews with: Lois Laurel Hawes, Lucille Hardy Price, Hal Roach, Jerry Lewis, Marcel Marceau, Maddin Schneider, Ingo Appelt, Ottfried Fischer, Michael Habeck, Bart Wiliams, Booth Colman, Phyllis Coates, Jean Darling, Stan Taffel, Irv Hyatt, Chuck McCann & Jim MacGeorge, Richard W. Bann, Tyler St. Mark, Michael Ehret, Wolfgang Günther and René Riva.

It was a pleasure to work with Andreas for this wonderful project. I´m glad I was able to support the documentary with the research of rare and unpublished footage.
 

Photo: Copyright 2011 EXIT Film- und Fernsehproduktion Kassel/Germany – www.exitfilm.tv

*****

Select your region

United Kingdom £9.99 Europe £12.50 Rest of World (Airmail) £16.00 Rest of World (Surface Mail) £13.00

The above prices include postage and packaging costs for further details.

The book is softback, slightly smaller than A4 (292x205mm), has 178 pages in total, close to 17,000 words and features over two hundred and ten images, many of which have never before been published. The book was written by Dean McKeown and edited by Maria Cairney, the foreword was written by Willie McIntyre.

Click the banner below for further information.

*****

An excellent cartoon of the Boys from "Way Out West" sent to us by cartoonist Fernando Llera.  He did this in 1980 for the Sons' Hollywood Convention.

*****
 

KARL SLOVER

1918-2001

Above: Karl Slover appearing in Blockheads.

Associate Press Release:  Karl Slover, one of the last surviving actors who played Munchkins in the 1939 classic film, "The Wizard of Oz," has died. He was 93.

The 4-foot-5 Slover died of cardiopulmonary arrest Tuesday afternoon in a central Georgia hospital, said Laurens County Deputy Coroner Nathan Stanley. According to friends, as recently as last weekend, Slover appeared at events in the suburban Chicago area.

Slover was best known for playing the lead trumpeter in the Munchkins' band but also had roles as a townsman and soldier in the film, said John Fricke, author of "100 Years of Oz" and five other books on the movie and its star, Judy Garland. Slover was one of the tiniest male Munchkins in the movie.

Long after Slover retired, he continued to appear around the country at festivals and events related to the movie. He was one of seven Munchkins at the 2007 unveiling of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame dedicated to the little people in the movie. Only three remain of the 124 diminutive actors who played the beloved Munchkins.

"He has a genuine immortality," Fricke said. "Of the 124 little people, he's one of the handful who got to enjoy this latter-day fame, to have people know who he was and be able to pick him out of the crowd in the movie."

Slover is the first of the three trumpeters to herald the Munchkin mayor when he makes his entrance. Slover had been cast to play the second trumpeter but switched when another actor got stage fright during filming, said longtime friend Allen Pease, the co-founder of the former Munchkinland Market Days outside Chesterton, Ind.

"Karl didn't know what stage fright meant," he said.

Slover was born Karl Kosiczky in what is now the Czech Republic and he was the only child in his family to be dwarf sized.

"In those uninformed days, his father tried witch doctor treatments to make him grow," Fricke said. "Knowing Karl and his triumph over his early life, you can't help but celebrate the man at a time like this."

He was buried in the backyard, immersed in heated oil until his skin blistered and then attached to a stretching machine at a hospital, all in the attempt to make him become taller. Eventually he was sold by his father at age 9 to a traveling show in Europe, Fricke said.

Slover continued to perform into his late 20s, when he moved to the United States, changed his name and appeared in circuses as part of a vaudeville group known as the Singer Midgets. The group's 30 performers became the nucleus of the Munchkins.

He was paid $50 a week for the movie and told friends that Garland's dog in the movie, "Toto," made more money.

The surviving Munchkin actors found new generations of fans in the late 1980s when they began making appearances around the country.

"It wasn't until the Munchkins started making their appearances in 1989 that they call came to realize how potent the film had become and remained," Fricke said. "He was wonderfully articulate about his memories, he had anecdotes to share."

Thanks to Gino Dercola for bringing this news/article to our attention

Rest in Peace

*****

STAN LAUREL HAT AUCTION

Christmas is around the corner, you may have a spare £8000 to spend on that special gift for the Laurel and Hardy fan in your life.  Why not buy one of Stan's very own bowler hats?  Christie's auction house in London will be auctioning this hat on the 23rd of November.

Lot 66 Description:
Stan Laurel's trademark Bowler Hat, the undersized black felt bowler hat, with black grosgrain ribbon trim -- worn by Stan Laurel circa 1930s - 1940s, signed and inscribed inside To Anne, Stan Laurel; accompanied by a two page autographed letter in Stan Laurel's hand, on Laurel And Hardy Feature Productions illustrated and headed paper, 511 Pacfic Mutual Building, Los Angeles California, November 28th, 1941 to Anne, thanking her for her correspondence and Hope you recd. the photos and also the hat... Am also enclosing you a little song book of parodies that was sent to me, thought you may enjoy it and get a few laughs.; the song book Sing-A-Laff by L. Wolfe Gilbert as mentioned and an early photograph of Stan Laurel inscribed in Laurels hand To Anne From Sweet Sixteen!! -- 7x4½in. (18x11.5cm.); and stamped envelope (6)

for more information.

*****

The above letter where Stan refers to the agreement made with Larry Harmon  is currently for sale on ebay.

*****

Licensed Laurel and Hardy music for iPhone game

Drew Ramsey has been in touch with the following:
I have some news that I thought Laurel and Hardy fans would be interested in.  We just released a retro-style iPhone game yesterday called Doodle Driver, and we were able to license Leroy Shield's music (4 songs) from 'Laurel and Hardy' and 'Our Gang' films. I have been in contact with Leroy Shield's grand daughter to acquire the license. My brother and I are still in our 20s, but we've been big fans of Laurel and Hardy and The Little Rascals as well as the music since we were very young kids. Our dad would take us to Sons of the Desert gatherings as kids, and we even have a few pictures with some of the late Little Rascals.

The great thing about having this music in the game, is that we are now able to expose this timeless music to new generations who may never hear it otherwise.

for a link to the game on iTunes.

*****

Laurel and Hardy: The Essential Collection

OUT NOW

For more information on the above from Richard Bann

*****

The above is one of four colour images of Laurel and Hardy taken in the 1930s.

Laurel and Hardy On The Air

Fellow Son Bob Duncan has sent us the following message:

On Saturday Dec 3rd I’ll be co-hosting a 4-hour live internet radio program on the lives and careers of Laurel and Hardy.  We’ll be on the air from 6:00 - 10:00 PM Pacific time through the website www.cultradioagogo.com

The hosts of this station are into schlock horror and pop culture stuff but they’re also long-time Laurel and Hardy fans and are members of the local Way Out West tent. This will be the third program we’ve done with them.  We’ll have rare and unusual audio material and the program is designed to be interactive – we encourage audience participation either by phone or through the chat room.  Sons everywhere are welcome to join in the “goings-off”.

*****

A NUTTY NUT NEWS NETWORK EXCLUSIVE

Ernie 'Sunshine Sammy' Morrison Interview

The summer might be a distant memory but The Nutty Nut News Network would like to bring a little more 'Sunshine' into your life.

Sunshine Sammy Morrison, one of the earliest stars in the Our Gang series, talks with Nutty Nut News Network reporter Steve Wichrowski in a 1989 audio interview.

*****

Ant and Jo Mitchell Waite have been in touch with the following:

As we have sold out of our initial and limited run of animation books, we have decided to reprint it....but in a slightly different version.

It is a pocket edition 10 x 17 cm, with 148 pages. We have redesigned the inside to be simply an A-Z listing, so no index, no chapters, and far less pictures. The original one that many of you already have will not be re-issued in that form ever.

You can order it directly from lulu.com at £6.99 paperback, and it is also available as a download at £3.50. CLICK HERE

*****

The Following article is from The Northern Echo, Monday 26th September 2011 and is by Duncan Leatherdale and can be read HERE:

Tony Blair and the daughter of Stan Laurel have added their support to plans to turn the comedian’s former school into a museum and arts centre.  Plans are progressing for the derelict King James I Grammar School for Boys, in Bishop Auckland, which was extensively damaged in a 2007 arson attack.

Known locally as the Stan Laurel Museum, the young Laurel was taught there in 1902 while his father ran the nearby Eden Theatre.  Now a new group, the Stan Laurel Community Building Group, has launched a campaign to save the old building from demolition and turn it into a landmark in the town.

Having already secured support from the Prince of Wales, the campaign group has added two high-profile supporters – the former prime minister and Sedgefield MP and Lois Laurel- Hawes, the daughter of Stan Laurel.  In a letter sent to campaigner Michael O’Neill, Annie Ferguson, who works in Mr Blair’s private office, said:

“As a former resident of County Durham, the area remains very important to Mr Blair.  On behalf of Mr Blair please accept my warmest wishes and the very best of luck with the renovation.”  Mr Blair also sent a signed copy of his autobiography to be auctioned to raise funds.

Mr O’Neill has also received an email from the Laurel and Hardy films website on behalf of Ms Laurel-Hawes, 83, in which she described the plans as “wonderful”.  She said: “Do keep me informed on what you are doing. Best of luck.  My father always regretted not studying harder and staying longer in school.”

Parts of the grade-II listed school date from about 1605, when King James I approved a request from Anne Swyfte to teach Latin and Greek in Bishop Auckland.  After the school closed, it was used by Bishop Auckland’s operatic society and ballet group before it closed in 2000.

The group’s plans involve opening a drama centre and museum, part of which will be about Stan Laurel, as well as creating office space to lease to local groups.

Anyone wanting to get involved in the project is invited to a meeting at Tindale Crossing pub, Bishop Auckland, from 7.30pm on Thursday.  Alternatively, go to stanlaurelmuseumbishop auckland.yolasite.com

*****

EARL KRESS
RIP

Everyone here at The Nutty Nut News Network would like to offer our most sincere condolences to the family of Earl Kress who sadly passed away today.  Earl worked in the wonderful world of animation (CLICK HERE) and was a dedicated member of the Sons of the Desert and a great friend to many of us.

Please visit stusshow.com today (Monday 9/19) at 4 p.m. PT/ 7 p.m. ET for a special memorial program dedicated to Earl.

*****

Laurel and Hardy Boxset

Dean McKeown spotted the above Laurel and Hardy DVD case set available for preorder (release date October 17th, 2011) on Zavvi.  It has ten feature films and advertises itself as being the 'complete collection of Laurel and Hardy films'.  Looks to be yet another part repackaging of the Universal set.

*****

"This ground-breaking biography examines Laurel's family background, his formative years, and his struggle to establish his show business career. Throughout his life, Stan retained the emotional bonds forged in his youth, sporadically returning to his home town of North Shields.

Describing Stan Laurel's key role in making his films with long time team mate Oliver Hardy so successful internationally, the book also analyses how Stan's earliest life experiences are often echoed in those films. Included is a selection of photographs relevant to Laurel's boyhood, many related to recurring themes in the Laurel and Hardy comedies. An appendix lists the theatres played during the team's three tours of the United Kingdom between 1947 and 1954."

At the request of the author The Nutty Nut News Network regrets that we can no longer present the research paper Norvell Hardy- The Early Years by Eric Willoughby.   The Nutty Nut News Network actively encourages and welcomes submissions of this nature and will endeavour to continue to bring to our readers the very best news, articles and audio from Sons of the Desert and true Laurel and Hardy fans from around the world.  Remember…together we stand!

*****

SOLD OUT!

Next year's UK Convention in Birmingham has already sold out. As from 24th August, they are no longer taking bookings.

Sons who have missed out need not fear as there is an alternative one day event being hosted by the Helpmates Tent on Sunday 6th May, 2012 in Chatham, Kent.  Click below for more details.

*****

Laurel and Hardy performing The Drivers License Sketch, this longer clip was recently found on you tube by Trevor Dorman.

Above is a press photo from Salute to Stan Laurel, 1965, including Bob Newhart, Danny Kaye, Dick Van Dyke, Phil Silvers, Buster Keaton, Louis Nye and Lucille Ball, Audrey Meadows, Tina Lousie, Caesar Romero and Gregory Peck. 

The above image dedicated to Leslie Spurling reads:  (very faded) 'We will always be indebted to you `Leslie` your pal Oliver Hardy (Ollie)'; 'Thanks Leslie for your capable and valuable support, greatly appreciated.  Regard and Best Always, Stan Laurel (Stan).

The above images were posted on The Nutty Nut News Network Facebook group, to join simply search for the group and request membership.

Chris Coffey has passed on this plea from Ceri Hutton representing the concerned people of Ulverston;

Dear friends and Sons of the Desert,
I am writing as an Ulverston resident to let you know that Ulverston is under severe threat from a planning application to build an enormous superstore on the site of the Old Brewery, and surrounding houses, many of which they would knock down. The first thing you would see would be a huge superstore (we don't know which, but probably Tesco or Sainsbury's).

We are proud to live in a town which continues to be quirky and different. We believe that Stan could still recognise some of the Ulverston he knew in our small shops, artisan businesses, locally-based cafes and suppliers. All this would change, we believe, if the enormous monstrosity of the superstore (right slap bang at the entrance to Ulverston) got built. It would, as all supermarkets do, change our local ways for ever, hoover up local businesses, wreck our High Street.

Many Ulverstonians are extremely concerned about the town and its impact on both our lives as residents, and the experiences of our friends from around the world who come to visit the town. We have got together and are currently battling the proposals. We believe it will turn Ulverston into a 'clone town', ridding it of a lot of its individuality and closing down local, independent shops and traders. Our website, where you can find all the facts, is: www.keepulverstonspecial.co.uk

We are asking for your help in the following ways:
1. Go online, sign our petition, and please leave a comment - these matter.
2. Write a letter of objection to South Lakeland District Council. It's on the website in the 'Do Something' section
3. We think there may be a lot of benefit (and potential excellent publicity for our cause) in gathering the views of the Sons together in some kind of media campaign.  We're thinking of some or all of the following:

Quotes from key members of the SODT which we can incorporate into our press releases. A press release from yourselves (if you can do one from all the Tents then great), with one or two named people who could talk to the press (perhaps with a photo or two). A staged event here in Ulverston, in full SODT dress, which we could call local media to come and view and get broadcast.

RHI / Vivendi press release:  TIMELESS SOUND-ERA FILMS FROM THE LEGENDARY HAL ROACH LIBRARY DEBUT IN ONE EXTRAORDINARY DVD SET FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE U.S.

Digitally Remastered And Digitally Restored, Loaded With Over Two Hours Of Special Features, The Spectacular 10-Disc Set Arrives October 25 From RHI Entertainment And Vivendi Entertainment

UNIVERSAL CITY, CA – Celebrating the genius of the most beloved comedy team of all time, LAUREL & HARDY: THE ESSENTIAL COLLECTION debuts in a stunning 10-disc set on October 25, 2011 from RHI Entertainment and Vivendi Entertainment. With a comedic style that defined an era and created a legacy that is still celebrated today, 58 of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy’s talking shorts and feature films, produced under legendary movie mogul Hal Roach from 1929 through 1940, are now available for the first time in the U.S. all together in one magnificent collection.

Transferred in high definition for the first time and digitally enhanced for home viewing in the finest quality available to date, the set contains favorites that have been enjoyed for generations including Helpmates, Hog Wild, Another Fine Mess, Sons of the Desert, Way Out West, and the Academy Award® winning film The Music Box.

LAUREL & HARDY: THE ESSENTIAL COLLECTION comes housed in collectible, book-style packaging with an extensive, detailed film guide. The set also boasts over two hours of special features including exclusive, never-before-seen interviews with comedy legends Dick Van Dyke, Jerry Lewis, Tim Conway and more, who discuss the enduring impact and influence of Laurel and Hardy.

Additional features include commentaries by Laurel and Hardy aficionados, along with a virtual location map that allows viewers to take an interactive tour of the iconic places in and around Los Angeles where Laurel and Hardy filmed. Available for the suggested retail price of $99.98, LAUREL & HARDY: THE ESSENTIAL COLLECTION showcases some of the most cherished and hilarious films in cinema history and is a must-have for comedy fans and collectors everywhere.

BASICS
Price: $99.98.  Street Date: October 25, 2011.  Order Date: September 20, 2011.  Catalog Number: RH3021.  Language: English.  Running time: 1941 minutes.  Rating: NR.  NOTE:  Amazon.com are listing this set at $69.99

For more information on the above from Richard Bann

Gino Dercola has kindly provided us with a complete breakdown of the upcoming 'The Essential Laurel and Hardy' set:
DISC 1:
UNACCUSTOMED AS WE ARE 1929
BERTH MARKS 1929
MEN O' WAR 1929
PERFECT DAY 1929
THEY GO BOOM 1929
THE HOOSE-GOW 1929
NIGHT OWLS 1930
LADRONES (Night Owls, Spanish) 1930
BLOTTO 1930
DISC 2:
LA VIDA NOCTURNA (Blotto, Spanish) 1930
BRATS 1937
BRATS 1930 ORIGINAL VERSION 1930
BELOW ZERO 1930
TIEMBLA Y TITUBEA (Below Zero, Spanish) 1930
HOG WILD 1930
THE LAUREL & HARDY Murder Case 1930
NOCHE DE DUENDES (The Laurel-Hardy Murder Case & Berth Marks, Spanish) 1930
ANOTHER FINE MESS 1930
DISC 3:
BE BIG! 1931
CHICKENS COME HOME 1931
Politiquerias (Chickens Home, Spanish) 1931
LAUGHING GRAVY 1931
LES CAROTTIERS (Be Big! & Laughing Gravy, French) 1931
DISC 4:
LOS CALAVERAS (Be Big! & Laughing Gravy, Spanish) 1931
OUR WIFE 1931
PARDON US (extended version) 1931
COME CLEAN 1931
ONE GOOD TURN 1931
BEAU HUNKS 1931
DISC 5:
HELPMATES 1932
ANY OLD PORT 1932
THE MUSIC BOX 1932
THE CHIMP 1932
COUNTY HOSPITAL 1932
SCRAM! 1932
PACK UP YOUR TROUBLES 1932
THEIR FIRST MISTAKE 1932
DISC 6:
TOWED IN A HOLE 1932
TWICE TWO 1933
ME AND MY PAL 1933
THE MIDNIGHT PATROL 1933
BUSY BODIES 1933
DIRTY WORK 1933
SONS OF THE DESERT 1933
OLIVER THE EIGHTH 1934
GOING BYE-BYE! 1934
DISC 7:
THEM THAR HILLS 1934
THE LIVE GHOST 1934
TIT FOR TAT 1935
THE FIXER UPPERS 1935
THICKER THAN WATER 1935
THE BOHEMIAN GIRL 1936
DISC 8:
OUR RELATIONS 1936
WAY OUT WEST 1937
SWISS MISS 1938
DISC 9:
BLOCK-HEADS 1938
A CHUMP AT OXFORD - Shorter 1940
A CHUMP AT OXFORD - Longer 1940
SAPS AT SEA 1940
DISC 10:
SPECIAL FEATURES
A Tribute to Laurel & Hardy
On Location with Boys: Virtual Tour of set location and interactive map
Laurel & Hardy Guest Appearances
Laurel & Hardy Trailers

Can anyone shed some light on this image believed to be form the late 1940s of Stan, Eda, Ollie, Arthur Jefferson (Stan's dad), Beatrice Olga Jefferson and her husband Bill.  The picture is believed to have been taken in the Bull Inn in Bottesford.

Dave Tomlinson, Grand-vizier of the Beau Hunks Tent writes:

The photo was taken at Olga's first pub, The Plough Inn, in Barkston (near Grantham) in March 1947. Stan was visiting his father at the beginning of the 1947 UK tour and it was the first time they had seen each other in quite a number of years. AJ died a couple of years later and he is buried in the local village cemetery. You can read more about the story on my website but most particularly

The Nottingham Beau Hunks Tent runs a Laurel and Hardy film-show event on a Saturday afternoon at the Bull Inn, Bottesford once a year around Stan's birthday. In the morning, a number of us takes the trip out to what was the old Plough Inn for photographs and then on to AJs grave, to pay respects to a wonderful father.
 

Following on from his successful Laurel and Hardy: The Hat Facts parts one and two, Tyler St. Mark has written a piece about Stan Laurel’s favourite book, Clowns and Pantomimes, which he personally signed in 1930 and presented to his favorite cameraman, fellow sportsman, and close friend, George Stevens (1904-1975).  This book and hence tale has been 'lost' for years until it found its way to Tyler who through his fathers friendship with George Stevens knew of this books existence.  In the article he writes:

"I have said before that we do not so much find these memorabilia treasures as they find us. It may take days, months, or years until we have gained the knowledge and insights necessary to recognize these extraordinary items when they may finally cross our path."

  to read Tyler's article.  Once again everyone here at The Nutty Nut News Network would like to thank Tyler for his outstanding work, effort and research which he provides freely for our enjoyment. 

“I didn’t know that comedy could be graceful and beautiful until I met Laurel & Hardy,  I didn’t know comedy was humane. I looked at these two men and I realized that these guys understood human nature. By some artistic instinct they had this wonderful business of being in touch with the human condition.”

George Stevens

Edith Fellows
1923-2011

Everyone here at The Nutty Nut News Network would like to pass our condolences onto the family and friends of Our Gang actress Edith Fellows who sadly passed away a few days ago.

To read Edith's obituary please

Was Ollie a Catholic?

Gino Dercola of the Any Old Port Tent – Oasis 212, Baltimore, Maryland has been in touch with the following:

The below item was recently posted on the L&H Discussion Group by Daniel Sulger.  Thanks, Daniel.

I just finished reading the fascinating story of Louis Zamperini (US "miler" at the 1936 Olympic games in Berlin and survivor of 47 days at sea in a life raft and more than two years in a Japanese POW camp), "Devil at my Heels," and in it he mentions his encounter with Babe at the Lakeside Golf Club in 1944:

"I found Hardy, one of my heroes, in the shower. He walked out stark naked and hugged me. Then he started crying. 'Louis,' he said with a sniff, 'I prayed for you every day you were missing.' Hardy was Catholic; I'd been Catholic Athlete of the Year the year after DiMaggio got the award. Later Hardy told Lakeside's Manager, 'Whenever Zamperini comes in, all the food, liquor - whatever he wants - is on my tab. Unlimited.' I'm not sure why, but I never took advantage of his generosity."

I must say, I found this intriguing.  I do not recall ever hearing that Ollie was a Catholic, although this author leaves NO question that he was.  I asked Randy Skretvedt, who is truly an expert on the background of L&H, what he thought.  Randy stated, in part, “….I've never heard of Babe being a Catholic.  In fact, I don't know if I have anything that definitively states that his family had an affiliation with a particular denomination….. I know that Babe as an adult was not religious in the traditional sense, but of course he was a Mason and there is a spiritual component to that.  I think that [being a Mason], more than anything, was his church.”

Now, to make the water a little more cloudy, I might add that the Catholic Church has a long history of objection of Catholics becoming Masons—in fact, they are strictly forbidden from joining the Masons.  On the other hand, Freemasonry allows Catholics, who choose, to join their organization.  Also, there are reports that mention that Ollie attended the Milledgeville Methodist Church with his mother, Emmie, on Sundays—the church was right across the street from where they lived in Milledgeville, where Emmie ran a boarding house.  She was a religious person and was said to have raised Ollie as a “good Methodist.”  She did send Ollie for one year to the Methodist Young Harris Academy in 1906/07 in northern Georgia—this was in hopes that more disciplinary schooling would help in his education (I’m not sure it did!).  One thing for sure: History shows Ollie was a life-long, dedicated Mason.

Randy mentioned that he has many, many hours of interviews of Lucille Hardy on tape, and is pretty sure he would have discussed this with her; and one day, he might be able to go back though those tapes and see if Lucille ever mentioned anything about this.

Any Son with proof that Ollie was a Catholic please let me know so I can share it with other Sons.

I might also note that the author of that book, Louis Zamperini, born in 1917, is still alive and active, living in Hollywood, California. For many years, he became more famous for going around the world talking to groups as an inspirational speaker (based on his strong religious convictions).

This is an interesting subject, indeed, for those of us who love to know all there is about the Boys.

If you can help Gino with information please get in touch using the link below and we will pass on your messages.

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LAUREL & HARDY: THE HAT FACTS PART TWO
By Tyler St. Mark

for the second part of Tyler St. Mark's paper about Stan and Ollie’s iconic headwear.

for part one of Tyler St. Mark's excellent paper concerning Stan and Ollie’s iconic headwear.

Bob Duncan from the Way Out West Tent reports the following information.

'We saw Debbie Reynolds on the news last night talking about how she's going to be auctioning off her MASSIVE Hollywood memorabilia collection. We were able to find the auction catolog in PDF (the print copy of the catalog retails $40). We thought you guys might be interested in seeing it.' (please note this PDF is close to 90MB and over 300 pages long).

Each item comes with full providence and history.  Debbie is auctioning one of Laurel  and Hardy's Model T's which she got from the MGM estate sale.  The description explains how Debbie's dad restored it since the wooden wheels were rotten in the early 1970s when she bought it. Bids start at $20-30k!  Also for sale are a pair of Laurel and Hardy's suits (shown above).

Bernie Hogya writes on the Laurel and Hardy Forum:  The Stan Laurel Correspondence Archive Project has just added a terrific letter from Stan dated April 8, 1954, where Stan gives his own recollection of one of his first performances EVER as "Bugler Dunne" in one of his father's shows in May 1900! Check it out:

Dick Bann suggests 'No doubt shot during PACK UP YOUR TROUBLES, and this is probably a writer for the Spanish language magazine pictured, being accommodated during a visit to the studio.....That staircase is used in PACK UP, and compare stills from this film as to costume and weight.'  See below.

Piet Lindner adds: This picture was taken during the making of "Pack Up Your Troubles"( Spanish version). The reporter between the boys is Fernando G. Toledo. He is the writer of the Spanish article in the august 1932 edition of "Film Selectos" a Spanish film magazine. I know this because I have the original article in my collection . In my Bohemian Magazine nr.5 I have a translation in Dutch of this article.

Jimmy Murphy Interview Ulverston 1984

Here we present a very brief but revealing audio interview with Jimmy Murphy, Stan Laurel's valet. Jimmy recalls his time with actress Joan Crawford and reveals the "gift" she received from her then husband Alfred Steele.

Laurel and Hardy Audio - Paris 1947

Here we present a rare minute long L&H audio from Paris in 1947 (October 28th, 1947) that was sent to the Nutty Nut News Network in 1986 by Jack Delante from France.

You will hear Stan struggle to understand the interviewer who is asking him to weep.  The interviewer asks 'You are weepy?' and Stan replies 'Very happy!'

www.charliehallpicturearchive.com

Dean McKeown is delighted to announce that after more than a year of protracted legal haggling he was able to reclaim the .com address to his website.  Dean says:

‘It is a relief just to have the address back and directing to The Charlie Hall Picture Archive book website.  This whole mess started last year when my old web space provider went to the wall whilst retaining ownership of my domain name and refusing to transfer it over to me.  However justice has now been done and as the old saying goes…all’s well that ends ok!’

THE CHARLIE HALL PICTURE ARCHIVE
Only £8.49 *

*excluding postage if applicable.

FREE or REDUCED postage rates.  Free UK postage, Europe £11 including postage (Airmail Printed Paper), Rest of world from £13.50 including postage.

The book is softback, slightly smaller than A4 (292x205mm), has 178 pages in total, close to 17,000 words and features over two hundred and ten images, many of which have never before been published. The book was written by Dean McKeown and edited by Maria Cairney, the foreword was written by Willie McIntyre.

Click the banner below for further information.

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The Nutty Nut News Network brings you two appeals from fellow Son's.  The first being from Michael Ehret who has done outstanding work in restoring the Driver's Licence footage from Stan and Ollie's 1940 performance in Milwaukee.  The second comes from Antony Mitchell-Waite who is seeking some advertising material relating to The Boys.

Hello,

I'm presenting the colour footage of the "Driver's Licence Sketch" performed in Milwaukee in 1940 at ROLDUC Convention together with some other rare film & audio material on Friday, 10th of June 2011. I obtained the original 8mm tape and digitized & restored it. I'm compiling a documentary with all kind of material about the footage: film, text and photos.

I still try to find some more photos of the performance in Milwaukee (1940). If anybody has a high resolution photo of Laurel & Hardy performing the "Driver's Licence Sketch" (no matter where it was performed) I would love to buy a scan.

Surely I would credit the owner in my presentation at the ROLDUC Convention 2011.

Please send me an Email: 

Thank you,
MICHAEL EHRET

Hi everyone,

I am after pictures of the following to aid in my adverts research:
-Stan in dress (from Dancing masters) Vodka advert.
-Fire safety week photograph while on tour in us.
-Fold-A-Bye/Stak-A-Bye tables and chairs leaflets and posters, or photo of them next to the display (possibly 1947).
-Ultrazyme tablets.
-The Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey.

Thanks in advance
Antony

If you think you can help Antony please

The enduring appeal of Laurel and Hardy

 In March and April of this year Scotland on Sunday reporter Peter Ross interviewed several Sons in Scotland including Willie McIntyre Grand Sheik of the Call of the Cuckoo Tent and the Nutty Nut News Networks very own Dean McKeown about the continued popularity of Stan and Ollie. to read the article.

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Willie McIntyre reports on Bowler Dessert Online:

McFarland Publishers tell us of a book, The Making of Stan Laurel: Echoes of a British Boyhood by Danny Lawrence. It will be published this summer.

Publicity says, "This ground-breaking biography examines Laurel's family background, his formative years, and his struggle to establish his show business career. Throughout his life, Stan retained the emotional bonds forged in his youth, sporadically returning to his home town of North Shields.

"Describing Stan Laurel's key role in making his films with long time team mate Oliver Hardy so successful internationally, the book also analyses how Stan's earliest life experiences are often echoed in those films. Included is a selection of photographs relevant to Laurel's boyhood, many related to recurring themes in the Laurel and Hardy comedies. An appendix lists the theatres played during the team's three tours of the United Kingdom between 1947 and 1954."

Author Danny Lawrence is a retired sociologist from the University of Nottingham.  Print ISBN: 978-0-7864-6312-1. E-book ISBN: 978-0-7864-8515-4.

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FILM PRESERVATION – ANOTHER FINE MESS
“Why don’t you do something to help me?”

By Richard W. Bann

In 1914 Hal Roach began his career as an independent producer, specializing in comedy. Memorable series were built around star names Harold Lloyd, Our Gang, Charley Chase, Will Rogers, Thelma Todd, Harry Langdon, and Laurel & Hardy. Anyone who has seen their work is likely to agree on the importance of preserving these threatened movies for future generations to discover, study and enjoy.

Threatened? How could movies like these, so widely seen for so long, be at risk of disappearing forever in first-class quality copies? Because they were too popular. Too many prints and negatives wore out, is the simple answer. Also, unfortunately, the surviving original nitrate elements have suffered decades of benign neglect.

to continue reading this essay and learn, among other things, about the last sighting of HATS OFF, and why it will never be found on 16mm; what happened when the fire department came to Stan Laurel's house; who really conceived and orchestrated the whole Buster Keaton revival; what Richard Currier had to do with saving the Laurel & Hardy films; who "The Master Duper" is; and why all the Hal Roach Studios camera negatives were quietly parked by the side of the road in the Nevada dessert.

Frustrated fans who know and care about saving and sharing the films have long asked how they can aid in this effort to restore and preserve the battered remaining nitrate, recently deposited at the UCLA Film & Television Archive. Now there is a way everyone can get involved, by donating funds, at any level of participation.

Here is the link to UCLA’s new website which explains how you can be involved in the grassroots international fundraising effort: www.cinema.ucla.edu.
 

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Coming soon on iPad and iPhone
 

For the first time on the iPad and iPhone, the Laurel and Hardy Films App is coming soon to the Apple App Store on iTunes, with three distinctive Apps, covering their Silent, Sound and Feature Films.

The images used in the App are taken direct from the original stills which were held at the Hal Roach Studios. These gorgeous high resolution images are shown alongside the contextual film detail for each film, the text written by Prof John McCabe, official biographer of Laurel and Hardy (author of Mr Laurel and Mr Hardy - 1961).

Other features also available are the location button, which allows the option to view in maps, the area where a still was filmed when the Boys were out filming, in either Culver City, or local to the Hal Roach Studios. Each film has a full list of data, for both Cast and Crew, and an option to view info on each film from the website directly inside the App itself.

Russell Babidge
www.laurelandhardyarchive.com
 

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STAN'S CHILDHOOD

The North-West Evening Mail reports the followin:

Young Stan brought to life in a film.

Part of a film about Stan Laurel’s early life has been filmed in locations across Ulverston.   Wigan businessman Brian Worthington shot the first phase of his film Stan’s Childhood in the town over the weekend.

The first section is set in 2011 and features two young Laurel and Hardy fans who arrive by train for a day in Ulverston to see where Stan grew up.

The second phase, due to be shot in the summer, possibly in Shropshire, will involve the same children playing Stan and his cousin Mary.

The film, due for release on DVD later this year, will jump between the two eras to tell Stan’s story.

Mr Worthington filmed at Ulverston Railway Station and in the town centre at Bank Clock.  Part of the story involves Stan’s granddad being given the job of repairing the clock.

The former Gillam’s shop, on the corner of Market Street and Union Street, is also mentioned.  Mr Worthington said Stan’s favourite toffee was treacle and his grandmother would treat him to some from Gillam’s when she took him shopping.

The small crew also filmed at Stan’s childhood home in Argyle Street, the bottom of Hoad Hill, Priory Road cemetery, and the bottom of Ulverston Canal – Stan’s favourite fishing spot.

Lifetime Laurel and Hardy fan Mr Worthington, 46, said: “I first came to Ulverston in 1989 after reading an article saying Stan was born here – I’d always thought he was American.  Once I saw Ulverston was only 90 miles away from me, I thought I’d come and have a look – and I’ve come back lots of times every year since.

“I met (Laurel and Hardy Museum founder) Bill Cubin and bought a book called Laurel Before Hardy, which was a limited publication about his roots and how his granddad moved here from Yorkshire.”  Mr Worthington’s dream of making the film stemmed from there.

He has spent around £20,000 on filming equipment over recent years and estimates the project will cost £4,000 to £5,000.

Explaining the duo’s enduring popularity, Mr Worthington said: “It appeals to all age groups.  You can have three-year-old children up to old age pensioners and it has the same effect.”

-- Do you want to star in the second phase of the film?  Applications are still being taken for several roles.  Anyone interested should visit www.stanschildhood.com

New Film: Stan Laurel's Childhood

The North West Evening Mail reports the following:

A FILM telling the story of Stan Laurel’s early life is to put Ulverston in the spotlight.  Businessman Brian Worthington is fulfilling one of his dreams by making the film Stan’s Childhood.

Wigan-born Mr Worthington, 46, has been hooked on Laurel and Hardy since the age of five and developed a love of Ulverston during his first visit in 1989.  After a couple of minor set-backs, the film is going to be shot in two phases.  Phase-one will be shot in and around Ulverston on March 26 and 27.  Phase-two will involve old period footage and the film’s producers are in talks over possible locations with bosses of Victorian attractions in Shropshire and Yorkshire.

Having developed a love of Ulverston and Stan and Ollie, Mr Worthington began researching Laurel’s life by reading books and speaking often with the late Bill Cubin, founder of Ulverston’s Laurel and Hardy Museum.

He said: “I made my first visit to Ulverston in 1989 after reading an article on Stan in our local newspaper.  It was only then that I realised just how close this comedy legend’s roots were to me.  I fell in love with the town of Ulverston from day-one and visit many times each year.“After a long talk with the late Bill Cubin and a lengthy talk with Stan’s cousin, Nancy Wardell, at a Sons of the Desert convention, I came up with the idea of making a short film, uncovering his early life with his grandparents.  Many years passed by, gathering information and then finally two years ago my wife Julie and I set about writing the script.”

The film should have gone through post-production by the autumn and will be released on DVD. 

Connor Wood, 10, of Wigan, has been cast to play Laurel.  He said: “I am very pleased to have been chosen to play the role because Stan Laurel was dead famous and made people laugh, most people know of him and I would like to be famous one day.”

Connor has visited Ulverston to sample the Laurel and Hardy Museum and climb Hoad Hill.  He will appear alongside 11-year-old Tamsin Leary, of Preston, who will play Mary, Laurel’s cousin and best friend.

*****

'One of the ironies of film preservation is that it's often the most popular titles that are most in need of restoration, and this is certainly true of the work of the universally beloved comic duo, Laurel & Hardy, whose films have been used, reused and overused to the point of severe attrition.

UCLA Film & Television Archive is kicking off a major preservation effort to restore all of its surviving negatives of Laurel & Hardy. Thanks to the generosity of Mr. Jeff Joseph, a major lead gift has already been pledged for the project.

Often our preservation efforts are funded by public agencies and charitable foundations, but we thought we'd try something different with Laurel & Hardy, allowing the general public to contribute directly to the restoration of the Boys' timeless classics......and know that you are contributing to the preservation of their work for generations to come.'

Producer / Director Paul E. Gierucki continues to share outstanding, rare images on Facebook. Paul, who is currently working on a book about Roscoe Arbuckle, posted the image below with the caption:

A previously unpublished snapshot of Babe & Lucille Hardy -- from their own scrapbook. The handwritten notation: "Cap Roux - St. Raphael, France. Atoll K. 'Us' on location!"

The picture most probably dates from August/September, 1950. To visit Paul's website

Laurel and Hardy made another appearance in the most recent episode of The Simpson's (Season 22, episode 16).  To put the sketch in context, a group of Springfield residents were at a theatre for a 'hippie' show and Mr Burns was seen happily laughing away while Smithers appeared stunned that Mr Burns found the show funny. However fumes from the 'hippie herbs' were making Mr Burns hallucinate and it was in his hallucination that we seen Stan and Ollie on stage doing a little dance.

The above images are from the collection of Paul E. Gierucki.  The last image appears to have been taken on the same day as the image we use on the frontpage of The Nutty Nut News Network.

TONY CARUSO INTERVIEW

By  Scott MacGillivray

Prolific character actor Tony Caruso, who appeared with Stan and Ollie in Jitterbugs, is interviewed by Laurel and Hardy author and Boston Brats Grand Sheik Scott MacGillivray at the Sons 1992 convention in Las Vegas.

To listen to this interview

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THE NUTTY NUT NEWS NETWORK

ON FACEBOOK

We have good news for all our regular visitors after some requests we have created a Nutty Nut News Network group on the popular social networking site Facebook.  By joining the group you will be alerted to any new audio material or major news added to the site, you can also use the group to leave messages or Laurel and Hardy/Tent related news of your own.  To find us log into Facebook and simply type The Nutty Nut News Network into your search bar.

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2012 SONS OF THE DESERT INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION

Dave Stevenson has been in touch to say that Manchester, New Hampshire will be the setting for the 2012 Sons of the Desert International Convention! The bid-winning video shown in Sacramento this afternoon is show below.

2012 Sons of the Desert Convention
Convention dates have been changed to July 19th - 22nd, 2012

Check out the Facebook home for the 18th International Convention of the official Laurel and Hardy Society, search Facebook for Manchester 2012 Sons of the Desert Convention.

We have to stress that you should not directly link to any file on this website.  All Nutty Nut News Network Show audios and interviews are the exclusive right of The Nutty Nut News Network and must not be used, copied, or duplicated  in any manner without prior permission.  All archive material presented here on a non-profit basis is presented as originally compiled. All interviews are copyright Mike David. Additional material is either believed to be public domain or used under the terms of copyright fair use.  If you believe your copyright has been violated by this website please get in touch with the webmasters and we will be happy to discuss your concerns.

NUTTY NEWS BYTES

NEWS ARCHIVE

*****

The Nutty Nut News Network brings to you the best of YouTube.

Updated 6th December with the Felix Knight interview.

*****

LAUREL AND HARDY
by
TOM MCGRATH
BRAND NEW, RARE BOOK, RRP £8.99

Laurel and Hardy by Tom McGrath

United Kingdom £8.49 GBP Europe £9.49 GBP Rest of World £10.49 GBP

The above prices include postage and packaging costs for further details.

Charlie Hall Picture Archive

United Kingdom £8.49 GBP Europe £11.00 GBP Rest of World (Airmail) £15.00 GBP Rest of World (surface) £13.50 GBP

The above prices include postage and packaging costs for further details.

*****

Frank Muni has been in touch to tell us about his new website, Frank's World of Laurel and Hardy.  To visit the site

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Dick Van Dyke appeared on "CBS This Morning" to speak of his career, retirement, recent engagement and his love of Laurel and Hardy.

To view

*****

2012 SOD Manchester Convention Update

1. Reminder to all that the pre-convention trip to Boston is on Tuesday, July 17, 2012.
2. Chuck McCann and Jim McGeorge will be coming to the convention.

Visit the convention website to find out more about the convention and how to register:

*****

Nutty Nut News regular John Bogie has been in touch with the following two items of interest to Laurel and Hardy fans: 'Thursday 11th August on BBC 4 at 10PM "Paul Merton's Weird and Wonderful World of Early Cinema" about the early days of comedy in Silent Cinema.  Also next Friday 19th August in "My Favourite Joke" on BBC 1 at 11.05PM features The Boys 1932 short "County Hospital"

*****

to read an article about Charlie Hall and John Ullah's soon to be published book, ' This Is More Than I Can Stand'.

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LAUREL & HARDY: THE HAT FACTS PART TWO
By Tyler St. Mark

*****

Martha Sleeper Bio

Our friend and fellow Son Bob Duncan has been in touch with the following:

Just wanted to let you know there’s an updated Martha Sleeper bio posted on “SilentHollywood.com”. The link is below. Hope you find it interesting.

*****

SONS OF THE DESERT
33rd UK CONVENTION
Hosted by the Laughing Gravy Tent of Birmingham
4th till 7th May 2012

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LAUREL AND HARDY MUSEUM ARGENTINA

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Stan Taffel writes:

Help - Any Sons with information about the employees at the Hal Roach Studio:

I am in touch with an individual who tells me his grandfather was the head of the film lab. Does anybody know of a listing of employees at the studio to verify this?

Please help me confirm. His name was Charles (Charlie) Levin.  Thanks in advance.

To contact Stan

*****

Due to popular demand we have now added the 1959 interview The Life and Times of Stan Laurel by Tony Thomas to the Audio section of this site

*****

Richard Bann Reviews The Charlie Hall Picture Archive

'Laurel and Hardy fans will devour and enjoy The Charlie Hall Picture Archive. It is the next best thing to having known the diminutive chap from Birmingham, England, the one who advertised himself in casting directories as "(Little) Charles Hall." He did so in order to distinguish himself from the similarly British-born art director and production designer Charles D Hall. Evidently the two men were even born the same year.

Besides the illustrations in Dean McKeown's book, and Charlie Hall's own captions for them, I enjoyed the text. I learned some things I did not know, giving a better sense of who this man really was.

And right when so many of us believe there are no more Laurel and Hardy still photos yet to be unearthed, more surface. It seems there are always more to discover - a good thing!'

Richard Bann on the Official Laurel and Hardy Website read the whole review HERE

*****

The Little Nemesis Charlie Hall

The Nutty Nut News Networks own Dean McKeown (author of The Charlie Hall Picture Archive) has founded a Facebook group dedicated to Charlie Hall.  The group can be found but entering 'The Little Nemesis Charlie Hall' into the search bar on Facebook.

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GRAVE SITUATIONS

to read how you can help the departed people we love on screen not be forgotten in life

*****

In Stan's words

"You have to learn what the public laughs at and get in tune with it," he said in an interview. "A young comic has to know the repertory very well, change parts, assume several roles. You can get a lot of ideas studying the reactions of different audiences. Some people will laugh at a scene and others won't. When you understand why, you've earned your diploma."