Hanging card advertising the pantomime Jack and Jill at the Empire Theatre, Leeds, 1958

Pictorial and typographic hanging card, advertising Jack and Jill at the Empire Theatre, Leeds, commencing 24 December, billed as 'Emile Littler's All Star Pantomime'. Red background with a steep yellow hill, and a drawing of a very feminine Jack, who sits on the ground holding her head, with a spilt bucket of water beside her, and, to left, the head of a laughing donkey. In the background, Jill, in high heels, runs down the hill. The names of the stars are given in a block, centre left, in dark blue lettering on a white background. They are: Charlie Chester as Cheerful Charlie, Kathryn Sadler as Jack, Brendan O'Dowda as the King, Sid Plummer as Twist the Crooked Man, Johnny Kenwood as Tommy Trott, Wally Dunn as Dame Horner, Wendy Cook as the Fairy of the Well, Smoothey and Layton as Johnny Stout and Willie Green, Molly Veness as the Witch and Elaine Millar as Mary Mary, with the Iris Roy Trio and the famous Tiller Girls. Information about the dates, times and prices is given in black lettering on a yellow background at the head and foot of the card, including a reference to reduced prices for children, beginning 5 January 1959. Overpasted with the announcement ' Must terminate on Sat, 7th March'.

Given by the estate of Sir Emile Littler

Hanging cards were displayed in shops to publicise performances at local theatres. This card advertises the pantomime, Jack and Jill, at the Empire Theatre. Leeds, opening on 24 December 1958.

The producer, Emile Littler (1903-1985), was one of the most influential of 20th century theatrical impresarios, specialising in spectacular musicals and pantomimes. His shows were staged in theatres throughout Britain and standard images were used in the advertising. The printer simply changed the cast and theatre details for each venue.

S.993-1986