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'BAND WAGGON' - excerpt from last show of 2nd
series, recorded from an actual broadcast
HMV BD693 (1st of 6 sides) recorded 15 March 1939
series, recorded from an actual broadcast
HMV BD693 (1st of 6 sides) recorded 15 March 1939
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"BIG" AND "STINKER'S" PARLOUR GAMES
HMV BD784 recorded 13 November 1939
(2 sides, 6'40")
HMV BD784 recorded 13 November 1939
(2 sides, 6'40")
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Both performers had a natural and relaxed approach, well served by simple but effective scripts by Vernon Harris (who was uncredited as the BBC wanted the public to believe it was all made up on the spot) with additions by Askey and Murdoch.
The shows consisted of sketches, often within the framework of the mythical flat, together with visiting artists and musical numbers: Band Waggon was a huge success and made Askey a major star, and established Murdoch as a superb comic support which he later was in other broadcast comedy series. The show ran for three years, finishing in 1940 when Murdoch was called up for war service. It was a landmark in BBC Variety, and paved the way for ITMA and countless other comedy-team shows.
(Mouse over the details for notes on each record)
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