Before and Beyond Laurel & Hardy

The influence of Laurel & Hardy stretched far beyond Hollywood, inspiring countless comedy duos and imitators including a remarkable lineage of female partnerships who borrowed, reinterpreted, and sometimes subverted the boys’ brand of beautifully timed onscreen chaos.

In this screening and discussion, film historian Pam Hutchinson and comedian, actor  Lucy Porter celebrate some of these overlooked acts: from US contemporaries Marion Byron & Anita Garvin to a trailblazing Scandinavian duo Ole & Axel/Pat & Patchon and Britain’s very own Tilly Girls. Featuring a selection of rare short films that illuminate this lesser-known chapter of screen comedy. 

With live piano accompaniment by Daan van den Hurk

Overall event running time: approximately 70 mins

This event will be BSL interpreted