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Petula on the British Stage: Variety and in Concert - The 1940s

The Fan Archive proudly presents a comprehensive and continually evolving record of Petula's variety and concert appearances throughout the 1940s and beyond. Meticulously compiled from our extensive collection of theatre programmes, flyers, press clippings, photographs, and promotional materials, this listing offers an unparalleled glimpse into Petula's early stage career in variety and in concert.

Presented here are highlights from the Fan Archive's extensive trove of vintage materials.

No other fan-led resource provides this level of detail, accuracy, and archival richness. Each entry reflects the dedication of archivists and enthusiasts who have pieced together Petula's performance history with care and precision. This living database serves as both a tribute and a research tool, an invaluable reference for fans, historians, and scholars alike.

If you have additional information, images, or memorabilia that could enrich these pages, we warmly invite you to contribute via our About page.

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As World War II gripped Britain in 1939, a young Petula Clark emerged as a beacon of morale, performing tirelessly for troops across the country. Often travelling with her father on blackout troop trains to military camps, she quickly earned the nickname "Britain's Shirley Temple," charming servicemen with her voice and spirit. By war's end, she had delivered over 500 performances, including appearances at iconic venues like Piccadilly's Stage Door Canteen and Rainbow Corner.

In 1941, Petula gave her first professional performance with Harry Fryer and his Orchestra, her fee, a tin of toffees and a gold wristwatch (lost within days). Throughout the 1940s, Petula's stage presence matured, blending musical numbers with comic impressions of stars like Danny Kaye, Carmen Miranda, and Vera Lynn. Her repertoire reflected the era's popular culture, and every performance was meticulously managed by her father, Leslie Norman Clark.

From humble beginnings to national treasure, Petula's wartime years laid the foundation for a career that would span continents and decades.

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1940s Stage Chronicle:

The Luton News

The Luton News

Palace Theatre, Luton - 8 March 1942

A lively wartime programme featuring Harry Fryer and his renowned broadcasting band, joined by vocalists Ann Trevor and George Latter, pianist-entertainer Leslie Elliott, young Petula Clark - billed as "Britain's Shirley Temple" - and Michael Jones, known as the miniature Teddy Brown.

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Palace Theatre, Luton - 19 April 1942

Harry Fryer returned with his celebrated band, accompanied once again by Ann Trevor and George Latter. Petula was again billed as "Britain's Shirley Temple," joined by Michael Jones and accordion virtuoso Ian Richardson.

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Theatre Royal, Aldershot - 13 September 1942

A special concert for the Royal British Legion and the Armoured Corps Training Regiment featured pianist Alexis Kligerman, compere James Hayter, Petula Clark, and the Regimental Choir. Vocal soloists included Trooper Halbert (tenor), Trooper Dean (baritone), Corporal Clarke (bass), Trooper Stanton (light baritone), Trooper Pringle (yodeler/guitarist), and Trooper Kennedy (pianist). The Aldershot News, 18 September 1942, praised Petula's performance:

"Another notable success, in a completely different sphere, was scored by Petula Clark, the eight and a half year old daughter of a trooper in the regiment. With remarkable self-possession she sang 'Ave Maria' beautifully, and followed this with 'Mighty Like a Rose' and 'To-morrow is a Lovely Day.'"

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Portsmouth Evening News

Royal Albert Hall

Odeon, Newcastle - 14 March 1943

Harry Fryer and His Orchestra headlined this wartime concert, joined by vocalists George Latter and Ann Trevor. The evening also featured a performance by "Little Petula Clark," continuing to charm audiences across Britain.

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South Parade Pier, Southsea - 23 April 1943

Harry Fryer and his Broadcasting Orchestra headlined this double-bill concert, joined by vocalists Ann Trevor, George Latter, Petula Clark, and Grace Nevern. Two performances were held that day, at 3:00pm and 6:30pm, entertaining wartime audiences on the South Coast.

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Royal Albert Hall, London - 20 June 1943

Billed as the Grand Celebrity Concert, this star-studded event was held in support of the London Fire Service Benevolent Fund. The programme featured Dennis Noble, the Western Brothers, Anne Shelton, Renee Houston and Donald Stewart, Rawicz and Landauer, and Harry Fryer and his Orchestra. Petula Clark appeared with Fryer's ensemble, listed tenth on the bill, though not formally credited.

Introduced by Gerry Wilmot and broadcast live on the BBC Forces Programme, the concert marked a milestone in Petula's early career. In her 1950s memoirs, she recalls the nerves of performing under the vast dome before 8,000 people at just ten years old, especially with her father, Pop, unable to attend due to duty.

The next morning, Harry Fryer wrote to her father:

"She was a sensation, and I thought you would like to know this. I am only sorry you weren't able to be there to see how she stole the show."

That same day, 21 June 1943, Petula received an invitation to Elstree Studios for her first screen test, making it a truly red-letter moment in her young life.

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Granada Theatre, Bedford - 25 July 1943

Harry Fryer and His Orchestra took to the stage alongside vocalists Ann Trevor, George Latter, and young Petula Clark. Just ten and a half years old, Petula captivated the audience with a ten-minute solo performance that showcased her remarkable stage presence and talent for mimicry.

The Bedfordshire Times and Independent (30 July 1943) wrote:

"TEN-YEAR-OLD MARVEL: That phenomenon, Miss Petula Clark… took command of the vast stage and the microphone for ten minutes. We rubbed our eyes more than once when she impersonated Cockney kids, Mayfair ladies, American children, and what have you. An amazing person - if it wasn’t all done by mirrors - was Petula Clark."

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Majestic Theatre, Reigate - 4 September 1943

This Sunday afternoon charity concert was held in support of the Lord Lieutenant's Fund for Serving Men and Women of Surrey. Compered by Ronald Frankau, the programme featured Harry and Marjorie Ristori, Bennett and William, Tom Criddle, Petula Clark, Derek Pearson, Ann Trevor, Grace Nevern, George Latter, and Harry Fryer with his Broadcasting Orchestra.

The Surrey Mirror (10 September 1943) praised Petula's performance:

"Charmingly 'ingenue' too was the singing of little Petula Clark, who sang sweetly and looked as lovely as a child from a Victorian Christmas number. Petula, who at eight or so is already a 'famous B.B.C. star', was one of a team who came in the wake of the broadcasting orchestra directed by Harry Fryer."

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Theatre Royal, Aldershot - 19 September 1943

This charity concert was held in support of Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, and featured a diverse lineup of performers who generously gave their time. Among them were the band of "The Flying Yanks" (U.S. Air Force), Frances Day, Lt. Harry Jacobson (R.N.V.R.), Petula Clark, Lt. H.G. "Babe" Stribling (U.S.A.A.F.), and Capt. Williard (chaplain).

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Savoy Theatre, Swindon - 26 September 1943

This concert featured Harry Parry and his Rhythm Sextet, with vocal performances by Johnny Day, Joan Shear, Cecil Newbury, and a young Petula Clark.

The Stage (30 September 1943) noted:

"Petula Clark pleased with her songs and mimicry."

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South Parade Pier, Southsea - 7 April 1944

Harry Fryer and his Broadcasting Orchestra returned to the South Coast, joined by vocalists Ann Trevor, George Latter, and young Petula Clark, continuing her rise as a wartime favourite.

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Regent Theatre, Chelmsford - 21 May 1944

A lively variety programme featuring The Western Brothers, conjuror Ernest Sewell, tenor Walter Glynne, pianist Pamela Petchey, Alice Coty's Four Smart Girls, Yvonne and Peter Stuart, violinist G.V. Giddy, soprano Edna Proud, and Petula Clark.

The Chelmsford Chronicle (26 May 1944) praised Petula's performance:

"Eight-year-old Petula Clark, billed as Britain's youngest star of stage, screen and radio, also had a great reception. She has a big future. Her mimicry was particularly good."

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Queensbury All-Services Club, London - 24 December 1944

An All-Star Variety programme staged for members of H.M. and Allied Fighting Forces, recorded for radio broadcast. The line-up included John Blore and his Dance Orchestra, Edmundo Ros and His Ruma Rhythm, Tommy Handley (ITMA in person), Petula Clark (the 10-year-old singing star), Peter Sinclair ("Cock o' the North"), Evelyn Dall ("The Blonde Bombshell of Revue"), Peggy Desmond (Music Hall Piano Star), Pat Frost (15-year-old Xylophone Mascot of Variety Band Box), and Hal Monty (resident comedian of Variety Band Box). The show was introduced by Evelyn Dall, with dancing to Tommy Kemp's Band.

Broadcast as "Variety Band-Box" on the BBC General Forces Programme on 26 December 1944, with a repeat airing on 31 December 1944. Edited by Cecil Madden and produced by Stephen Williams.

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Winter Garden Theatre, London - 14 January 1945

This charity concert, hosted by Tommy Trinder, brought together a dynamic roster of performers including Phyllis Dixey, Len Young, Al Burnett, Talbot O'Farrell, Benny Lee, the Ralph Sharon Trio, Edmundo Ros and his Rumba Band, and the Corps of Drums from the 3rd Cadet Battalion, The Royal Fusiliers. Petula Clark was among the featured artists in this star-studded event. Historical Note: The Winter Garden Theatre no longer stands; its site is now occupied by the Gillian Lynne Theatre (formerly the New London Theatre).

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Royal Albert Hall programme cover

Inner pages of programme and ticket

Royal Albert Hall, London - 18 March 1945

Organised by the Evening Standard, the "Cavalcade of Stars" was a grand tribute to London's part-time firemen and firewomen. The event featured a wide array of performers, including Daria Luna, Issy Bonn, Leslie Strange, Ralph Richardson, Elsie and Doris Waters, Robb Wilton, Edna Squire-Brown, Nellie Wallace, Eddie Ready and Joy, Cyril Fletcher, the Cairoli Brothers, Arthur Caiger, Vera Lynn, and Petula Clark, accompanied by pianist Miriam Read.

Additional appearances included F/O George James, vocalist George Robey, speaker P.F.C. Jimmy Tomasseli, and pianist Dorothy Pouishnoff. Musical contributions came from Charles Shadwell and His Full Concert Orchestra, the Central Band of London Fire Forces, and the Massed Bands of the Coldstream, Grenadier, Irish, and Scots Guards, joined by the United States Army Band and the Brigade of Guards.

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Richmond Theatre, Surrey - 29 April 1945

Presented by the Richmond Boxing Day Charity Regatta Committee, this all-star variety concert was hosted by Leslie Pascall and featured The Kingston Empire Orchestra under the direction of Jack Frere. The programme included performances by George Foster (concertina), Edward Dryhurst (piano), vocalists Pat Hutton and Joy Turpin, George Betton, Harry Mooney, Victor King, Alan Clive, Sydney Wayment, Hayden Pope, David Davies (baritone), Ella Formby (ukulele), and Petula Clark.

The Richmond Herald (5 May 1945) praised Petula's performance:

"One of the highlights of the programme was provided by the juvenile Petula Clark, who, besides singing a number of popular tunes, imitated Dinah Shaw, Vera Lynn and Nellie Wallace to perfection."

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Theatre Royal, Newcastle - 24 June 1945

A special matinee concert was held for members of the National Fire Service, showcasing prominent figures from stage, screen, and radio. Headlining the event were George Robey, Harry Welchman, and Petula Clark. The programme was compered by Company Officer Graham Tennant.

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London Coliseum - 29 July 1945

This concert, organised by Julia Golden in aid of the Resettlement Fund for the Royal Armoured Corps Club, brought together a distinguished lineup of performers. Appearing on the programme were Marie Burke, Petula Clark, Issy Bonn, Beryl Orde, Michael Howard, Harry Hemsley, Paddy O’Neil, and Geraldine O’Brian, alongside the band of the 12th Royal Lancers.

Musical accompaniment was provided by Reginald Burston's Coliseum Orchestra and Howard Lucarft's ensemble. Additional performances included Denny Dennis, Edna Kaye, Gaby Rogers, and Sam Bogen, with support from Vera Howe.

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Royal Albert Hall, London - 3 March 1946

Presented by Ian Johnson in support of the National Fire Service Benevolent Fund, the Victory Cavalcade was a grand musical tribute staged at the Royal Albert Hall. Compered by Gerry Wilmot, the programme featured an impressive array of performers and ensembles, including:

• The Massed Bands of the Brigade of Guards

• The Bands of the Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish, and Welsh Guards (under Captain T.S. Chandler)

• The Drums and Pipers of the Scots Guards

• Charles Shadwell and His Concert Orchestra

• Gwen Catley, Mark Hambourg, Jack Train, Carmen Del Rio, Donald Edge

• Troise and His Mandoliers, The Alexandra Choir, Ballet Divertissement

• Delya, Naughton and Gold, Tommy Handley, Clarence Wright

• Steffani and His 30 Silver Songsters with Ronalde, Nervo and Knox

• Eddie Ready and Joy, Ethel Revnell, and Petula Clark

Petula's set included: Chicory Chic, Yours, I'll Close My Eyes, The Old Rustic Bridge by the Mill, Mighty Like a Rose, and Goodnight 'Till Tomorrow.

The evening was produced and staged by Ian Johnson.

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Programme cover and inner pages

Vaudeville Theatre, London - 16 June 1946

Marking the revival of the Green Room Rag after a seven-year hiatus, this lively theatrical programme, last staged in 1939, featured a diverse mix of sketches, dramatic scenes, and musical interludes. Nigel Patrick served as Chief Rag Picker, with contributions from Peter Waring and a host of notable performers.

Highlights included:

• Service with a Smile by Lionel Gamlin, featuring Edward Malin, Anthony Bazell, Peter Creswell, Dennis Bowen, Warren Tute, and Clifford Mollison

• Petula Clark in a featured performance

• Why Does a Mouse? by Frederick Burtwell, with Burtwell, Laidman Browne, and Robert Dorning

• Janet Hamilton Smith

• The Still Small Voice by Dick Richards, featuring Sydney King, Ursula Howells, Harold Warrender, and Ruth Dunning

• A comedic rendition of Hamlet with Alexander Field, Mona Washbourne, John Laurie, Wilfred Fletcher, Dennis Bowen, Noel Dryden, Billie Baker, Lionel Gadsden, Geoffrey Denton, Olwen Roose, George Street, Alan Lawrence, and Ronald Shiner

• Sextette from Floradora? performed by Bob Bromley

• Before Breakfast by Eugene O'Neill, featuring Freda Jackson and Peter Mather

• Pauline Grant

• If Men Played Cards As Women Do with Henry Mollinson, Nigel Patrick, Jack Allen, and Jack Hobbs

• Peter Waring

• Trouble for Skinner by Frederick Whitney, featuring Valerie White, George Cross, Scott Harrold, Antoinette Cellier, and George Street

• Stanley Holloway

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Stage Door Canteen, London - 29 June 1946

This celebratory evening marked the revitalisation of the Stage Door Canteen, commemorating its renewed lease of life. Hosted by Harold Thackrah, the event featured a distinguished lineup of performers from stage and screen, including Peter Waring, Ronnie Selby, Don Kenito, Gerry Wilmot, John Clements, Kav Hammond, Sheila Sym, Richard Attenborough, Cyril Shane, Cliff Gordon, Petula Clark, Michael Wilding, Eddie Reindeer, the Yale Brothers, Greta Gynt, Eric Woodburn, Barbara Mullen, the Eden Brothers, Neal Arden, Hugh McDermott, Dorothy Dickson, and Glynis Johns.

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To explore Petula's theatrical stage debut in Dear Octopus (June 1947), visit our Theatre section.

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Grand Theatre, Brighton - 26 August 1947

During Petula's second house performance at the Grand Theatre, a charming moment unfolded that delighted the audience. At just 14 years old, Petula headlined the bill with notable success. Among those in attendance was legendary music hall performer Kate Carney, who made her way backstage to personally congratulate Petula on what she called "a marvellous performance."

Seizing the opportunity, Will Hay Jr. brought both artists on stage together, uniting the oldest and youngest stars of the music hall tradition. The pair performed a number together, marking a symbolic and heartwarming meeting of generations.

The Stage (4 September 1947) reported:

"A little event took place which the audience enjoyed… Thus the oldest favourite of the music halls met the youngest."

Historical Note: Kate Carney (born Catherine Mary Pattinson, 15 August 1869 – 1 January 1950) was a celebrated English singer and comedienne, renowned for her long-standing presence on the London music hall circuit.

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London Coliseum - 26 October 1947

A Grand Concert was staged at the London Coliseum, presented by the beloved comedy and musical duo Flanagan and Allen. Held in support of the Brady Clubs and Settlements, the event brought together a wide array of popular entertainers of the day.

The programme included performances by Max Bacon, Issy Bonn, Petula Clark, George Elrick, Charlie Kunz, Merek and Vyse, Val Merrill, Max and Harry Nesbitt, Donald Peers, The Radio Revellers, Ethel Revnell, Shirl, Cyril Smith, Bernard Spear, Jill Summers, Albert Whelan, and others. Musical accompaniment was provided by an orchestra under the direction of Reg Burston.

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London Palladium – 7 December 1947 

The velvet curtains rose on a glittering Swing Session hosted by Paul Carpenter, headlined by none other than Ted Heath and His Music. This night marked Petula's first known appearance at the London Palladium, just weeks after her 15th birthday.

Sharing the stage with a constellation of jazz and variety stars, including The Kenny Baker Swing Group, Jack Parnell and His Quartet, The Ray Ellington Quartet, and Blues and Wilkins, Petula stepped into the spotlight at Britain's most iconic theatre.

This was Ted Heath’s 34th Swing Session, a night pulsing with big band brilliance and post-war optimism. The original programme, now lovingly preserved and scanned from the Fan Archive Collection, captures the energy of an unforgettable evening where history quietly took its place in the footlights.

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Hampstead News

Children's Cinema Club, Swiss Cottage, London - 21 February 1948

Before an audience of 900 enthusiastic children, Petula took to the stage at the Children's Cinema Club, delivering a delightful trio of songs: the Irish ballad Galway Bay, the blues number One Meatball, and Now Is the Hour, a popular hit made famous by Vera Lynn and Bing Crosby. Her performance was met with resounding approval, and she was voted a tremendous success by the young crowd.

A memorable moment followed as Petula presented prizes to the club's competition winners. In the photo, she is seen holding hands with Ronnie Stack (age 14) and Pamela Mead (age 7). For Ronnie, it was a particularly special occasion, he not only received a book from Petula but also a kiss from the 15-year-old film starlet. When asked how it felt to be kissed by a movie actress, he replied:

"It was a bit embarrassing, but I enjoyed it. Wait till I tell the boys at school."

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Liverpool Daily Post

Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool - 23 February 1948

The S.S.A.F.A. - Levis "Search for Stars" county finals brought together finalists from 15 towns for an evening of entertainment and talent. The programme featured the Royal Marines Band, The Shelagh Elliott Clarke Dancers, and a personal appearance by Petula.

The Liverpool Evening News highlighted Petula's distinctive style:

"Petula Clark was dressed with the simplicity of an Edwardian child. She had the junior new look, in fact, with a rust brown velvet frock frilled round the hips, with short puffed sleeves, her hair tied back at the neck."

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Thanet Advertiser and Echo

Bohemia Theatre, Broadstairs - 1 May 1948

A grand popular concert was held at the Bohemia Theatre, featuring a varied programme of entertainment. Among the performers were Jack Warner, Petula Clark, Ethel Willmott, and Denis Catline. Musical accompaniment was provided by the Thanet Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Captain L. P. Doone, M.B.E.

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Thanet Advertiser and Echo

Royal Palace Theatre, Ramsgate - 20 June 1948

Petula appeared in the Stars of the Air concert, a special event showcasing popular radio personalities live on stage.

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Odeon Theatre, Port Talbot - 17 July 1948

Petula Clark was the guest of honour at the Odeon Theatre in Bethany Square, where she officially opened a newly established games room for members of the Odeon National Cinema Club for Boys and Girls. The event was hailed as a landmark occasion in the club's history, with over a thousand children gathering to welcome Petula in what was described as a "royal" reception.

Herald of Wales

During the celebration, Petula performed two solo songs and joined the club choir for a rendition of the popular tune Now Is the Hour. Her visit extended beyond the theatre, as she sang to children lining the path to her grandparents' home in Abercanaid. In a touching moment, she performed Ave Maria for 99-year-old William Morris, a neighbour of her grandparents, in what was described as a "fireside audience of one." She later visited nearby Pentrebach to sing for 93-year-old Margaret Morgan, who proudly shared her cherished 100-year-old Welsh harp.

Note: Petula's grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Phillips, resided at 9 David's Row, Abercanaid. She was accompanied on this trip to Wales by her parents, Leslie Clark and Doris Clark (nee Phillips), who was born in Abercanaid.

Herald of Wales

Photographs from the day show Petula surrounded by enthusiastic fans, signing autographs, and posing with Sergeant D. F. Williams, the oldest serving policeman in the area, during what became a hugely successful and heartfelt visit to Port Talbot.

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Palace Theatre Cinema, Merthyr Tydfil - 17 July 1948

After a full day of engagements in Port Talbot, Petula continued her Welsh visit with a special appearance at the Palace Theatre Cinema in Merthyr Tydfil. Greeted by a large and enthusiastic audience, she performed a selection of songs from the stage, including the Welsh favourite Sospan Fach.

 Her performance was recorded and reportedly featured on the BBC Home Service as part of a youth magazine segment for Children's Hour, bringing her voice to listeners across the country.

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Carnival at Fry’s Gardens, Saffron Walden - 24 July 1948

Organised by the local branch of the British Legion in collaboration with the Road Safety Committee, this lively carnival concert drew an audience of nearly 1,500 to Fry's Gardens. Petula and her on-screen "father" Jack Warner were among the star attractions, delighting the crowd with a memorable joint appearance.

Petula performed five songs from her film repertoire, earning a rousing ovation. She was accompanied on piano by Joe Henderson and also entertained with witty impressions of Danny Kaye. Later in the programme, she and Jack Warner performed a duet from the latest instalment in the Huggett Family film series.

The variety show, compered by Mr. J. Greenland, also featured performances by ventriloquist Peter Brough, Bennett and Williams, Jock Walker, Gipsy Petulengro and Pattie, Davina, Miss Eve Hodges, Trudy Carthy, Jan Frewar, Harold Chivers, and Billy Bedford.

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Hammersmith Town Hall, London - 19 October 1948

Petula was the star attraction at a lively children's party hosted at Hammersmith Town Hall, attended by over 600 young guests. The event was organised by the schools section of the local branch of the National Savings Committee.

Petula captivated her audience with candid reflections on the less glamorous side of film star life, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into her world. She then delighted the crowd with two popular Danny Kaye songs, earning enthusiastic applause and plenty of smiles from her young fans.

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London Palladium - 21 November 1948

A special gala performance was staged at the London Palladium in support of the Greater London Fund for the Blind, with the evening's programme organised by Jack Warner. The event featured a stellar lineup including Jimmy Edwards, Anne Shelton, Peter Cavanagh, Helen Hill, Max Miller, Bill Kerr, Petula (with Joe Henderson at the piano), Terry-Thomas, Janey Hamilton Smith, and John Hargreaves.

The show was compered by Peter Waring, with musical accompaniment provided by Joe Henderson across various acts. A highlight of the evening was a duet by Jack Warner and Petula, performing Maybe It's Because I'm a Londoner to enthusiastic applause. The image features the original programme, lovingly preserved and digitally scanned from the Fan Archive Collection. It radiates the spirit of an extraordinary night of this All Star Gala.

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Odeon, Rayners Lane, London - 6 December 1948

To mark the launch of the new Huggett family film Here Come the Huggetts, Jimmy Hanley and Petula made two personal appearances at the Odeon, Rayners Lane. During their first appearance, the pair delighted audiences with a spirited duet of Anything You Can Do (I Can Do Better) from Annie Get Your Gun. Petula also performed a solo rendition of Bing Crosby's popular hit Galway Bay, earning warm applause from the crowd.

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Granada, Harrow, London - 6 December 1948

Jimmy Hanley and Petula's second personal appearance of the day offered a lively contrast to their earlier engagement. Jimmy entertained the audience with humorous commentary on everything from film critics to celebrity salaries, while Petula performed two well-loved songs to enthusiastic applause.

Their appearance was met with a thunderous reception, and the excitement continued offstage as they were mobbed by eager autograph seekers.

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Odeon, Kensington, London - 18 December 1948

Petula received a rapturous welcome from an audience of 2,000 children at the Odeon, Kensington. As she stepped onto the stage, cheers and whistles filled the auditorium. Petula performed a selection of popular songs before launching into two Danny Kaye numbers, sparking a joyous call-and-response with the crowd, 2,000 young voices echoing back with spirited "hi-de-hi's" and "ho-de-ho's," nearly bringing the house down.

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The Gaumont, Bromley - 20 December 1948

To celebrate the release of Here Come the Huggetts, John Blythe and Petula made a special stage appearance at The Gaumont, Bromley. Blythe introduced Petula, who charmed the audience with renditions of Buttons and Bows and Galway Bay, interwoven with two lively Danny Kaye numbers.

The Bromley and West Kent Mercury praised her performance, noting that it "bore testimony to her skill and show her as an accomplished little actress remembered in Easy Money, whose future should be one of the brightest."

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Grand Theatre, Brighton - Week Commencing 18 April 1949 (Twice Nightly)

An Easter Parade of Stars lit up the Grand Theatre with a vibrant variety programme featuring talent from radio, film, and stage. Headlining the bill were Petula Clark, Sam Browne, and Mary Naylor, supported by a full cast of variety performers in a festive celebration of post-war entertainment.

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Curious what gems the Fan Archive Collection reveals about Petula's variety and concert career in the 1940s? Let's take a look at what's been lovingly curated and preserved. Further accruals are expected, promising even more insight into this remarkable era of Petula's career.

Date / venue	Flyer	Programme	Ticket stub	Newspaper review / article / advert	Shelf mark
08/03/1942 Palace Theatre, Luton	-	-	-		F1
19/03/1942 Palace Theatre, Luton	-	-	-		F1
19/09/1942 Theatre Royal, Aldershot	-	-	-		F1
14/03/1943 Odeon, Newcastle	-	-	-		F1
23/04/1943 South Parade Pier, Southsea	-	-	-		F1
20/06/1943 Royal Albert Hall, London	-		-		F1
25/07/1943 Granada, Bedford	-	-	-		F1
04/09/1943 Majestic Theatre, Reigate	-	-	-		F1
19/09/1943 Theatre Royal, Aldershot	-	-	-		F1
26/09/1943 Savoy Theatre, Swindon	-	-	-		F1
07/04/1944 South Parade Pier, Southsea	-	-	-		F1
21/05/1944 Regent Theatre, Chelmsford	-	-	-		F1
24/12/1944 Queensbury All-Services Club, London	-	-	-		F1
14/01/1945 Winter Garden Theatre, London	-	-	-		F1
18/03/1945 Royal Albert Hall, London	-				F1
29/04/1945 Richmond Theatre, Surrey	-	-	-		F1
24/06/1945 Theatre Royal, Newcastle	-	-	-		F1
29/07/1945 London Coliseum	-		-	-	OS1
03/03/1946 Royal Albert Hall, London	-		-	-	F1
16/06/1946 Vaudeville Theatre, London	-		-	-	F1
29/06/1946 Stage Door Canteen, London	-	-	-		F1
26/08/1947 Grand Theatre, Brighton	-	-	-		F1
26/10/1947 London Coliseum	-	-	-		F1
07/12/1947 London Palladium	-		-	-	F1
21/02/1948 Children's Cinema Club, Swiss Cottage	-	-	-		F1
23/02/1948 Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool	-	-	-		F1
01/05/1948 Bohemia Theatre, Broadstairs	-	-	-		F1
20/06/1948 Royal Palace Theatre, Ramsgate	-	-	-		F1
17/07/1948 Odeon Theatre, Port Talbot	-	-	-		F1
17/07/1948 Palace Theatre Cinema, Merthyr Tydfil	-	-	-		F1
24/07/1948 Carninal at Fry's Gardens, Saffron Walden	-	-	-		F1
19/10/1948 Hammersmith Town Hall, London	-	-	-		F1
21/11/1948 Palladium, London	-		-		F1
06/12/1948 Odeon, Rayners Lane	-	-	-		F1
06/12/1948 Granada, Harrow	-	-	-		F1
18/12/1948 Odeon, Kensington	-	-	-		F1
20/12/1948 Gaumont, Bromley	-	-	-		F1
18/04/1949 Grand Theatre, Brighton	-	-	-		F1

Questions? Drop us an email: info@petula-archives.co.uk