LIGHT ENTERTAINMENT NEWS ROUND-UP- Compiled by Mark Ritchie
TONY PEERS
The comedian actor and producer Tony Peers whose death we recently reported, was given a true showbiz send-off at an event which marked his funeral and a celebration of his life.
The ceremony took place in Tony’s adopted town of Scarborough, on the Yorkshire coast and a large crowd congregated at The Spa Royal Hall.
Uk Cabaret contributor Stevie Jones was a close friend and past colleague of the great man and Stevie told us: “ I first got to know Tony when he was chief red coat at Butlins Ocean Hotel in Brighton in the winter of 1971. He held many different posts at Butlins over the years culminating in his being appointed head of entertainment for all the Butlins Hotels. Many people, including star names, knew Tony from his with his own company, Tony Peers Productions. Over a long period of time he produced many of the show at Scarborough Spa and at theatres across the country. Tony was also a great personal friend of mine ever since our very first meeting, as well as being a lovely affable guy. His funeral was light-hearted and entertaining, as he would have wished, but very sad for me personally. A great friend is now gone. Although I did not count the numbers present, it must have been into the hundreds”.
Tony Peers was a much-loved man, with show business running through his body like lettering though a stick of seaside rock. His many friends and the business in general will be poorer for his loss.
MORE CHANGES IN BLACKPOOL
After recent revelations that the famous and historic North Pier in Blackpool has been put up for sale, there is more shocking news that the famous Funnygirls venue is also to change hands. This news has caused quite a shock in the town as the operator of the venue Basil Newby MBE was the first ever venue manager and owner to spread the word on the value to showbusiness and the community in general on iconic venues such as Funnygirls. Mr Newby announced on his social media account that he is planning to travel and pursue other projects. Funnygirls remains very much alive and kicking and staging their unique and successful programme of shows.
GRAND ORDER OF WATER RATS NEWS
This month we got hold of publicity on the Grand Order of Water Rats annual Ball. The artwork is on display on page 2 and features the fact that former Spandau-Ballet singer Tony Hadley will be part of this years cabaret at the ball, which takes place next month at Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.
Do you have a light-entertainment based story you think we should know about? Just e-mail the editor at mark.ritchie@ukcabaret.com
