On June 2nd, Mike Storr gave members a talk entitled ‘Masters of Mirth of Yesteryear’. This was about how Music Halls began as a result of the Industrial Revolution concentrating people in towns and cities. Entertainment was largely provided by families in their homes until Public Houses created extensions where people could be entertained (and drink more of their liquor). By the end of the 1800s there were 300 Music Halls in London alone.

Monologues, poems and sketches satirising or laughing about everyday life were popular, along with catch phrases that became popular.

Mike gave readings and impressions of many well-known performers, including the poem ‘The Lion and Albert’ by Marriot Edgar and the famous story ‘The Bricklayer’s Lament’ by Gerard Hoffnung. Members greatly enjoyed Mike’s very entertaining presentation.