"BEYOND A JOKE"

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21912, 22 September 1934, Page 2 (Supplement)

"BEYOND A JOKE"

TIRED OF BEING MIMICKED Tired of being mimicked by other stage artists, Miss Gracie Fields, the famous comedienne, recently issued a general warning that legal proceedings would follow further impersonations as from August 20 unless the impersonators have her written permission. "I have been forced to take this action," explained Miss Fields. *' The times I am imitated each week has gone beyond a joke."

Managements are asked to take note of the warning, which reads: —" To whom it may concern: There are so many artists giving impersonations of

Miss Gracio Fields that it is. becoming nauseating. One day last week she was mimicked in no fewer than four different broadcast programmes. A few weeks ago at a well-known London variety hall she was impersonated by three out of the eight acts 011 the bill. " The impersonations arc good, bad and indifferent, and often injurious to her professional reputation. Therefore, unless such artists have written permission to give these impersonations legal proceedings will be instituted forthwith. This refers to all types of entertainment, including music-halls, theatres, concert parties and broadcasting. This warning also covers the performance of any of Miss Fields' own songs." It is added that the warning is issued "solely for the purpose of protecting Miss Fields' own interests."