Tuesday 28 July 2009

Godfrey's Ghost

New Arnold Ridley book to published September 2009

A new book about Arnold Ridley is being published by Mogzilla Life on 1st September 2009. The book has been penned by Arnold’s son Nicolas, and is called “Godfrey’s Ghost: From Father to Son”. Nicolas has kindly sent the podcast the following information about the book.

Arnold had a fascinating life which stretched from the rule of Queen Victoria to the ascension of Margaret Thatcher to the office of Prime Minister. He fought in two world wars, wrote a best selling play that is still frequently performed today and is perhaps most famous for playing the eldest member of the Walmington-On-Sea Home Guard, Pte. Charles Godfrey.

You can request a signed copy of the book be sent to you pre-publication from
Mogzilla’s Godfrey's Ghost webpage – otherwise the book will be available in both hardback (£15.99) and paperback (£9.99).

Friday 10 July 2009

Pike's Broadcast to the Empire **updated 14 July 2009**

Ian Lavender to star on LBC Radio

Ian Lavender is guesting on Steve Allen's popular LBC radio chat show, 'In coversation with....' The interview is being recording this weekend. However, at the time of writing, I cannot find out for sure when it will be broadcast. LBCs scheduling has an 'In conversation with...' show going out this Sunday at both 7:00am and 9:00pm although it is not clear if this will be the Lavender interview. LBC goes out on 97.3 FM. If anyone knows or manages to find out when the show is due to go out, please let me know by sending me an e-mail james@dadsarmypodcast.com or by leaving a comment below. Thanks!

**UPDATED 14 JULY 2009**

Ian's interview was broadcast on London Broadcasting Radio (LBC) on Sunday 12 July 2009. Ian spent an hour talking to Steve Allen (pictured above) about his life and career. As one would expect, Dad's Army featured prominantly. At one point, Ian said that every role he has won since his days in Dad's Amy was due to his success as Frank Pike. Ian also talks about his part as Derek Harkinson in EastEnders and his past stage performances. In the final ten minutes, Ian talks candidly about his health and describes what happened when he suffered a heart attack whilst he was a member of the EastEnders cast. Moving stuff.

Ian is currently playing Monsignor Howard in the stage version of Sister Act at the London Palladium.

The interview is currently available by visiting the LBC listen again website and then clicking on 'In coversation with...'. You will need to sign up in order to download the interview and pay a nominal charge.

Monday 6 July 2009

Pike at the Palladium

Ian Lavender to star in Sister Act


Ian Lavender has been cast as Monsignor Howard in the London Stage show Sister Act. The play opened at the London Palladium on 2 June and currently booking until February 2010 - although it has not been confirmed how long Lavender will star. The show has received mixed reviews - and I will bring you mine once I have booked my ticket! I never thought I'd have a reason to go and see Sister Act - cheers Mr Lavender! The former stupid boy stars alongside Sheila Hancock and Patina Miller and has received third billing. Ian's biog apprears on the production's official website.
Good luck to Ian - in all seriousness, it is good see Ian back treading the West End boards - I wish him the best of luck.