4:13pm Friday 13th February 2009
By Melanie Dakin
Published in the latter part of last year, Ian Scleater’s book recalling the history of our 100-year-old theatre is an insightful read for anyone curious as to the town’s development as a centre for entertainment.
Opened as a variety hall in 1908, Watford Palace Theatre was graced by early luminaries such as Marie Lloyd and her sister Rose, but despite rumours, Charlie Chaplin, Bob Hope and Stan Laurel most probably did not.
Most interesting are the stories of the unsung heroes of the theatre, the managers and devoted staff who steered the good ship Palace through the war years and through times of financial adversity.
The stewardship of Jimmy Perry, who went on to pen the perennially popular series Dad’s Army is of note as is the list of celebrities who have come to call.
As the Palace’s archivist, Ian has produced a fitting testament to what it takes to ensure the survival of a regional theatre. Long may the show go on.
The Story of the Palace Theatre Watford by Ian Scleater is published by Atlantic Publishing, priced £19.95 (hardback)
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