~ A Special Occasion ~

The 1952 Royal Variety Show was extra special, an occasion to treasure, when Gracie sang a duet with Gigli which gave her great pleasure. 'Come Back To Sorrento' was a sheer delight, on this glittering starlit night. The Italian tenor presented her with an enormous basket of roses all in full bloom, which Gracie proudly carried to her dressing room.

~ Lady Love ~

During the 1964 Royal Variety Show Gracie received a cable from Capri, to say her dog Lady had given birth to seven pups 'First time she's been a mum' Gracie announced excitedly. Blue eyes gentle with happiness and shining with delight, her voice soared to the highest when she appeared on stage that night. 

~ By Royal Command ~

Gracie Fields appeared in ten Royal Variety Shows between 1928 and 1978. She sang before King George V and Queen Mary, King George V1 and Queen Elizabeth our present Queen Elizabeth 11 and Prince Philip. Several of Gracie's concerts were attended by the Prince of Wales and Mrs. Wallis Simpson who later became the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Gracie's career was sublime, a far cry from the days when as a seven year old she cleaned the neighbours out side toilets for a halfpenny a time. Better to be born poor and strive to make a name, than being fed with a silver spoon and no particular aim.

~ The Ringing Sound ~

There's a ring on my finger a ring in my voice and the postman gives a ring on the door, with a beaming smile and cheery word handing me letters by the score. There's a ring in my ears and a warmth in my heart, knowing I spread happiness through my art. For all the love and loyalty extended to me, oh so grateful for ever I'll be. 

~ Naturally Nice ~

Gracie was not a glamorous screen goddess she was as natural as can be, with twinkling eyes a warm smile and tremendous vitality. Who could be shy in her company she put everyone at ease, Gracie was fond of people and always aimed to please. "Write to me love I'll send you a photo" this was often said, when she suffered an illness from time to time it was never from a swollen head.

~ Keep The World Bright and Gay ~

I have led a full life and travelled far but never thought of myself as a star. I only wished to be a friend loving and giving to the end. When I answer heaven's call I'll leave a message for one and all. Think of me everyday in your work and in your play, even though I'm far away in spirit I will never stray. Honour my memory while you may, and keep the world all bright and gay.

~ The Presentation ~

The Queen in the Royal Box looked elegant as if she was attending a ball, Gracie Fields was on stage queen of the Music Hall. Proving how she gained this honorary title in a dedicated way, and pleased to hear what Her Majesty had to say "it is so nice to see you back once again." Gracie's reply was firm and sure, "It's nice to be back ma'am it's like the horse that's been let out of the stable once more."

~ How many Times ~

People of every age loved to hear our Gracie singing on the stage. The same pattern as before, the cheers and the crowds by the old stage door. With an autograph book and a pen in her hand she was pleased to meet her fans demand I wonder how many times she has signed her name during her sixty years of fame.