In the 1940s film spin offs of radio shows became very popular,even variety shows such as this.I can think of a number of better remembered examples such as Hi Gang,ITMA and The Band Waggon.According to the Mancunian Studios website the radio show Happidrome ran from 1941 to 1947.It was a Saturday night variety show featuring the same three characters running a run down music hall much as they are doing in this film.In fact what passes for a plot only serves to introduce the variety turns.There are 2 numbers from Hutch and a routine with the Caroli Brothers which lasts nearly 10 minutes.The latters inclusion may have something to do with the fact that one of the co producers is Tom Arnold who was a well known circus owner.Strangely enough the other co producer was Jack Buchanan.It has to be said that this film is more of historic interest than anything.The film was last transmitted by the BBC in 1982 as part of their 60th birthday celebrations.I suppose the next airing will be in 2022 for their centenary.
Review of Happidrome
