The programme was for the National Deaf Club’s first Dramatic Variety Entertainment organised by Percy Goodwin and performed on 30th November 1912. The performances included a conjuring display by Ho Ni Lai, a recital of nursery rhymes by a 7-year-old daughter of a member, Mrs. Rich, and comedy sketches, “Old Salt in Ye Old Times” and “A Comical Comedy”. The programme and photos are from Arthur Durlacher’s 1906-1931 Scrapbook which was donated by Melinda Napier in 2015.
Why are the programme and photographs rare?
The N.D.C. produced in 1912 its very first dramatic variety show with sketches. The programme for the show is the only one of its kind in existence. Also what is unusual is that there are photographs accompanying the programme and were on sale at 2d each. The photographs show various characters in their theatrical costumes.