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The Actor, The Lodgings, The Kipper And Ma

Geoffrey Wheeler recollects the theatrical landladies who gave bed and board to actors and variety turns. From 2004.

Once upon a time, the theatrical landlady provided a home away from home to actors and stars of Variety who could not afford, or didn’t wish, to stay in hotels while on tour.

Often referred to affectionately as 'Ma', the landladies acquired quite the reputation.

Freezing bedrooms, sheets still damp from the washing line, inedible breakfasts and landladies helping themselves to their guests' provisions were, sadly, not uncommon.

Among the performers recalling the world of the theatrical landlady are:

* Bruce Forsyth
* Jimmy Cricket
* Ted Ray

Plus one of the most famous landladies of them all, Manchester's own Alma McKay.

Presented by Geoffrey Wheeler.

Producer: Libby Cross

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 2004.

30 minutes

Last on

Wed 1 Oct 202500:30
BBC Radio 4 Extra

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