Artists Defy Raiders

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 106, 6 May 1941, Page 3

Artists Defy Raiders

From Sydney Sun. Several London theatres have been turned into self-contained studio-homes where 8.8. C. short-wave artists broadcast, eat and sleep during air raids. These Empire short-wave programmes are now being transmitted about 23J hours out of 24. When the war started, the 8.8,0. decided on a policy of dispersal of studios so it commandeered some London theatres. A representative of “The Sydney Sun” visited one of these theatres and found the Debroy Somers Band broadcasting to India. The atmosphere was informal and members of the orchestra played in their short sleeves, smoking cigarettes between numbers, while a woman crooner, who had just finished a sentimental song, sat placidly on the side of the stage knitting a jumper for a soldier. What was formerly the Royal Box has been converted into the control room, while other boxes have become bedrooms, where members of the 8.8. C. staff sleep, if unable to go home because of bombing. Lulled To Sleep. One of the top box-bedrooms is occupied by the producer, Joan Gilbert, who saves time descending to the stage by sliding down a rope fixed to the ceiling. The orchestra pit also contains beds for artists, who are lulled to sleep by colleagues, taking their turn in keeping the Empire entertained throughout the day and night, blitz or no blitz. Empire programmes are arranged on a basis following the sun around the world, which is divided into four sections, namely, the Pacific, embracing .Australasia, tho Eastern, embracing India, Malaya' and the Far East, and the African and North American sections. There is also special provision for the A.I.F. in North Africa.