Alec Finlay


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Alec Finlay (1905-1984) was known as 'The Pocket Harry Lauder' and 'Scotland's Gentleman'. His comedy was delightful, couthie and kindly, with recognisable studies of the Oldest Inhabitant, the Postman, and above all, the Kirk Elder. Finlay made his first professional appearance on the island of Millport in 1928. Soon after his debut, Finlay and his wife Rita Andre formed a double act, appearing in London in the early 1930s. The act toured throughout Britain and to South Africa in the 30s after which Finlay went solo, appearing in top hat, tails and kilt. He appeared in numerous pantomimes and revues and also appeared with the Glasgow Citizens' Theatre in the 1955-56 season. His contribution to Workers Playtime shows, given to factory employees during the war, was another wholehearted contribution to the art of bringing laughter.

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