KEN DODD PRESENTS:
A CELEBRATION OF LIVERPOOL’S LAUGHTER MAKERS
ST.GEORGE’S CONCERT HALL, LIVERPOOL – APRIL 1ST & 2ND 2008
Comedy legend Ken Dodd will be presenting his personal tribute to Liverpool’s Laughter Makers for two nights at St. George’s Concert Hall on April 1st & 2nd.
His comedic tribute to Liverpool’s European Capital of Culture year is his own personal gift to the city of his birth and the people of Liverpool and Merseyside.
Ken’s unique one-man show will celebrate a century of comic talent from legendary Liverpool laughter-makers such as Arthur Askey, Ted Ray, Robb Wilton, Billy Bennett, Tommy Handley, Beryl Orde, Avril Angers and many more comedy troupers, old and new – highlighting their influence on the nation’s funnybone, and how they inspired him.
Ken, who was made a Freeman Of The City of Liverpool in 2001 and has been voted the Greatest Merseysider, said: “I was fortunate enough to have grown up with my comedy heroes, and it is an honour and privilege to be paying homage to just a few of those who gave so much to the comedy heritage of the nation, and to Liverpool and Merseyside in particular.
“I have travelled all over the world and, in my opinion, have yet to visit anywhere that compares with Liverpool. It has such a rich diversity of creative talents in music, the arts, and especially humour. The people here are blessed with kindness, generosity, energy and drive, and a natural wit.
“Liverpool is where I was born and where I have lived all my life. It is where I truly belong.”.
Ken’s performance will also be a first for him at the magnificently restored Victorian venue, and support his goal to perform at every theatre in the UK.
Councillor Warren Bradley, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: ‘’One of Liverpool’s defining cultural characteristics is its humour and there is no-one better to explore this than our greatest comic. The city is blessed to have such a tireless ambassador as Ken, who spreads happiness wherever he goes.’’
Phil Redmond, Creative Director at Liverpool Culture Company added: ‘’It will be fascinating to hear Ken’s thoughts on comedy – his perspective is unique and his anecdotes alone are a national treasure. His encyclopaedic knowledge and brilliant wit will make for a memorable highlight of ‘08.’’
Tickets go on sale on Saturday, 1st March 2008 at 10am priced £25 at Liverpool Philharmonic Box Office. Book in person or call 0151 709 3789. Tickets are limited to two per household. Proceeds to Merseyside charities.