It’s been 70 years since George Formby paid a visit to Brierley Hill’s then brand-new Danilo cinema in 1936.
The singer famous for his ukulele led songs such as When I’m Cleanin’ Windows and Leaning on a Lamppost was on hand to open the new super cinema in Brierley Hill High Street on Monday December 21, 1936, along with his dancer wife Beryl.
It was the first and one of the only times the legendary character visited Dudley, but it has not been forgotten by Stourbridge branch of The George Formby Society. They are now delving into the past to find out more about the visit of their hero.
Branch founder Malcolm Palmer said: “It was 70 years ago but you can just imagine it was a big thing to happen in Brierley Hill.
“We are now interested to hear from anyone who was around at that time and who actually got to see him, or better still who has any pictures.”
The former Danilo cinema is now a nightclub called Deep. Mr Palmer added: “We would like to see a plaque put up somewhere to remind people of George’s visit.”
The Danilo cinema was a 1,200-seat cinema opened by the Earl of Dudley in the presence of George, who was performing at Birmingham Hippodrome at the time.
During the opening ceremony George performed a song, although it is not known which one. The first feature film shown at the cinema was The Lady Consents and proceeds went to Dudley Guest Hospital and Corbett Hospital.The group are also keen to hear from anyone who knows anything about his visits to Dudley Hippodrome in 1944 and 1948.
Anyone who has any memories of any of the visits or any photographs can get in touch with Malcolm Palmer on 01902 678012.
The George Formby Society meets on the third Wednesday of every month at The Summer House pub, The Portway, Kingswinford, at 8pm.
By Ben Lammas
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