 The shop is festooned with the ephemera of show business including famous performers of the past. An old theatrical postcard, print, playbill or programme might become an appropriate 'first night' gift.
Publishers, stage, film and television companies are given assistance. But for such enquiries it is preferable to deal with the individual directly involved.
David Drummond may occasionally be heard on radio discussing his various specialities such as pantomime history whilst his popular clown character Lord Pandrum may sometimes be encountered as a children's storyteller.
An enthusiasm for light entertainment was seen in BBC4's documentary "The History of Music Hall" in which the shop was a feature. This resulted in many enquiries by relatives seeking anything relating to family performers of the past. Some fascinating stories emerged from the fuller details received. These are essential when endeavouring to "sleuth" and I file such requests in the hope of success.
THIS WINTER SEASON
AND A GLIMPSE OF THE PAST
My arrival in Cecil Court in 1967 had been preceded by five years as an antique dealer in Notting Hill Gate and Portobello Road. With this move to larger premises I enlarged my stock of children's toys and games and the well established areas of picture postcards and Victorian ephemera with the acquisition of a large collection of children's books. The whole to form the basis of my Cecil Court enterprise. My earlier career as an actor had led to a speciality in the subject but I was wary of upsetting an established dealer in theatre subjects in nearby St Martin's Court.
Though I flourished for some years in the world of children's literature gradually the stocking of juvenilia became secondary and when my neighbour retired my own love of the performing arts and those who peopled it became the principal subject.
I have always enjoyed creating a window of interest and when possible giving it a topical theme. Thus a royal occasion will bring out relevant stock. as did Cecil Court's recent celebration of its past association with the cinema industry. Music Hall, Conjuring, Circus and all aspects of performance provide opportunities for display. So does Valentine's Day when vintage greetings bring clients on an annual visit seeking presentation to a loved one. Winter is of course a natural opportunity for display and is, perhaps, the one I enjoy most of all. This is when my collection of Victorian Christmas cards come to the fore.
When I was at Notting Hill Gate I coined a name for my business reflecting wares that recalled a leisured age and also the enjoyment derived from receiving them. Therefore this coming Christmas I will be endeavouring to capture some of the atmosphere of my early years in this pleasing thoroughfare. Maybe a visit to Pleasures of Past Times may solve a problem for those Santa Clauses with a nostalgic wish list.
I look forward to assisting. Reindeers outside, please. |
