The Billet Article - Presidential

This article is taken from The Billet Issue - 403 - Jul 2005, Authored by Melvyn Shalks

Presidential

In Robinson Crusoe in King Rat costume, I had to have a fight with the cat. In one performance we fell to the stage rather awkwardly. I banged my head on a stage weight and blacked out. I was dragged into the wings where St John revived me. What some people will do for attention.

Another favourite from the Boys Magic Service was 'On the Spot'. A five of spades was rubbed with the forefinger. It visibly changed to five of diamonds. This was done with a black rubber compound, much like Copydex. It was painted over the diamond pips to look like spades. On rubbing it rolled into a little ball and dropped to the floor. It cost 2/6d equal to twelve and a half pence today.

I was entering competitions now. Butlins Skegness was my favourite.

The first prize was £10,000 and a booking at the Palladium.

I won many free holidays but did not get any further than the camp finals until I did a double act. I did this with my sister. I did it with my friend, an Al Jolson nut and finally with Christine. I'll tell you the pros and cons of each, next time.

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