Upcoming Shows
We are presenting a rehearsed reading of the new Play 'Paddle Your Own Canoe' By Holly Baynes.
Paddle Your Own Canoe brings to life the remarkable yet little‑known story of Harry Clifton, one of the brightest stars of early music hall. A prolific songwriter of the 1860s, Clifton wrote favourites such as Pretty Polly Perkins of Paddington Green, Paddle Your Own Canoe, The Waterford Boys, and countless others that once echoed through bustling theatres across Britain.
Despite his fame, Clifton himself remained what many described as “a rather private entertainer.” Very little was known about the man behind the melodies. I first became aware of Harry Clifton from researching my family history and through him I also found the stories of other music hall stars whose fascinating stories are told alongside Harry's in this new play.
Paddle Your Own Canoe invites audiences to step into the glittering, gas‑lit world of the Victorian music hall—not only the spectacle onstage, but the heartbeat backstage. Through Clifton’s story, we witness the triumphs and trials of those who lived for the applause yet carried their own private joys and sorrows.
Blending music, history, and intimate storytelling, this play celebrates the forgotten icons of early music hall in England, revealing the human stories that shaped an era of entertainment.
This is a rehearsed reading of the play, actors will perform script in hand. We welcome feedback from the audience as this is a work in progress.
Tuesday 28th April. Doors open 7pm and the show starts at 7:30pm
Free entry - Simply email dappercattheatre@gmail.com to confirm, or you can turn up on the night
Approximately 2 hours run time including an interval