Here you will find a comprehensive history of the men who shaped the history of Scottish Variety and Pantomime for the first half of the 20th century.
Fred Collins, via painting and boxing, finally became Scotland’s first theatrical entrepreneur. From writing songs for the stars he then performed them as a comedian. He produced shows, leasing, buying and building venues. He founded Scotland’s first Variety Agency and then the Musical Artists Benevolent Association so becoming benefactor to the entire profession.
On his father’s death, Horace Collins established his ‘Five Theatre Seasonal Circuit’ creating a successful environment to nurture and employ Scottish star talent throughout the 1930’s and 40’s. On Horace’s death in 1947 his wife Josee took the reins until their son Randle was old enough to guide the Agency for its final decade in the declining years of Scottish variety.
This is their story and the story of the Golden Age of Scottish Variety.
