The Portsmouth area was once a lively and thriving area of at least thirty “palaces of pleasure”, all operating at the same time, and playing an important role in the lives of the local people.

Sadly, many were lost during World War II and through subsequent building work but this book vividly brings to life, once again, the golden days of entertainment when they were affectionately known as ‘Bughutches’ or ‘Fleapits’.

Cinemas & Theatres of Portsmouth presents a lavishly illustrated selection of portraits of the work of some of Portsmouth’s most famous sons and daughters. Stars such as Peter Sellers, Evie Green and Austin Melford are featured, as are visitors Harry Houdini, Sean Connery, Max Miller, Vesta Tilley, Gregory Peck, George Formby and Laurel & Hardy who all performed here.

This book covers not only Portsmouth but also Cosham, Havant, Hayling, Fareham, Gosport and Lee-on-the-Solent and is sure to be of interest to anyone interested not just in local history but also the rich and varied history of entertainment in general.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

The name of Ron Brown is synonymous with local history in the Portsmouth area. Over three decades he has produced many books and thousands of magazine and newspaper articles; his ten year stint as the Nostalgia writer and columnist for The News gained Ron a considerable number of readers. Ron was also a film and theatre critic for some years. Ron currently lives in Fareham.

235 x 165 mm | paperback | 128 pages | 180 black and white illustrations