CABARET CLEAN-UP

Gisborne Times, Volume LXXXIV, Issue 12769, 27 January 1936, Page 3

CABARET CLEAN-UP

SQUAD OF “PURITY SCOUTS. 1 ’ Sensational prosecutions, involving well-known cabaret artists whose performances are alleged to be indecent, are to take place soon in London. The clean-up campaign is being led by the entertainments committee of the London County Council, and apart from police summonses against the performers, it is probable that the licenses of a number of clubs and restaurants will be taken away or suspended. “Purity Scouts,” carrying notebooks and pencils in the pockets of tlieir evening clothes, are visiting all the restaurant, cabaret and nightclub entertainments in the West End. From their information, ari official “Black List” is being compiled. Certain entertainers and proprietors of smart supper clubs are already on the list. Prominent figures in the entertainment world agree that it is time that some drastic move was made to arrest the growing rneance of these blatantly suggestive shows. At several expensive dance clubs and restaurants the midnight cabaret entertainments are disgusting. Highly paid “entertainers” sing obscene songs and recite monologues that are vulgar without even the saving grace of wit. Between the acts, scantily clothed chorus girls pose and posture—they no longer bother to dance. In many instances the nature of the performance has been so offensive that parties have left their tables and walked out.

Sir Seymour Hicks has been one of the vigorous campaigners for cleaning up this type of entertainment. “I am no prude,” he said. “But with this type of show it is not a question of being brilliantly brisque. It is just downright filth. On the screen wo are not even allowed to say ‘Damn,’ yet night after night before mixed company certain artists are making jokes that would not be tolerated in a decent smoking ,room. Several of these performers are only being given sufficient ‘rope to hang themselves. They are being watched every evening and you can take it from me that there will he some startling prosecutions. Licenses will ho taken , away, too.”