King’s Lynn Legends of Variety doyenne of comedy Anita Harris in town to carry on tradition of variety

A legendary line-up of performers will be starring in a matinee show at Lynn’s Alive Corn Exchange on Sunday, July 2.

Legends of Variety stars Anita Harris, Bernie Clifton, The Grumbleweeds, Billy Pearce and Bobby Crush have been brought together in a stage show by Freddie Davies.

The show promises an afternoon of comedy and charm with these much-loved classic stars.

Their experience and knowledge gained by years of honing their craft aims to bring back memories of the good old days of the variety circuit and live entertainment.

Well known for her appearances in the Carry On films, Anita is an accomplished singer and has worked with some of comedy’s greats.

Lynn News reporter, Jenny Beake, interviewed Anita ahead of the show covering subjects from Love Island, working with Morecambe and Wise, Bruce Forsyth and Tommy Cooper plus advice to those wishing to pursue a life in theatre.

Speaking of her fellow cast members she said: “Freddie Davies has brought us all together and being in showbiz, we grew up together so hopefully our audience grew up with us too and will share our camaraderie and laughter the show brings.

“We have memories to talk about and although the show is nostalgic we are aware that our audience is always new.

“It is a family audience that the whole family can enjoy, I feel it is family entertainment.”

Anita, 81, lives in Surrey and recently lost her husband, Mike Margolis who she speaks of with great fondness, following 50 years of married life

Her family background is, she says, part of keeping her feet firmly on the ground.

She said: “It is very hard for young people when suddenly in the limelight such as being on Love Island.

“It is hard not to be overpowered by sudden stardom.”

How do you handle fame?

“I feel I was lucky to always go back to my family situation.

“Sometimes you have to be brave enough to say no to work if you are getting frazzled by it.

“It is always wonderful while it is happening but it can be strenuous.

“Being pushed into working and travelling too hard and fatigue can lead to making wrong decisions.

“I try to be still for a moment, breathe in the world and say to myself hold on.

“It all comes down to your centre core and who you are.”

Her career has spanned decades and comedians she has worked with include Eric and Ernie, Bruce Forsyth, Tommy Cooper and Frankie Howerd.

She said: “I learned from watching Bruce Forsyth from the wings even before he went on stage.

“I look at all those I have worked with as doyens of entertainment.”