~ The Gracie Fields Theatre ~

Gracie opened a theatre in Rochdale it proudly bears her name, in recognition of her services and sixty years of fame. A double measure of delight, a school by day and shows at night. The young generation missed Gracie's career, but they gave a warm welcome and cheer after cheer. She walked the same streets and breathed the same air, the magic lingers everywhere. Not just a year a week or a day, the memory of Gracie Fields will never fade away.

~ The Sunset Years ~

In a quiet room by the fireside glow I think of days long ago. My humorous father, ambitious mother, two lovely sisters and younger brother. A brief affair with the artist John Flanagan his love he did prove, but would not contemplate marriage as he was always on the move. My deep involvement with Archie Pitt, my second marriage to Monty Banks with his charm and his wit. Travels around the world cheers and adulation songs and films to delight the British nation. Joining family and friends once in a while, warmed by a child's sunny smile. My beautiful home in Capri, and marriage to Boris who truly loves me. Quite apart from all the rest the sunset years are the very best.

~ Sweet Memories Stir ~

In my youth time were hard in every way yet neighbourhoods roared with activity sadly lacking today. It was there in the chip shops, schools and pubs, on the pavement and in the street, it pulsed in the rows of small houses with lace curtains hanging so neat. After sixty years I can remember still, the knocker-up arousing me for work in the mill. The glow of gaslight guiding me on my way and the fragrance from the sculleries on a washday. The bad old days perhaps they were, but in my present life of luxury sweet memories stir.

~ Birthday Party ~

I'm having a birthday party I am eighty-one today, from an eager seven year old I've come a long way. I'm a little hard of hearing my hair is white and I need to wear glasses to give me clearer sight. The old voice is not what it was - it's true, I can't hit the high notes like I used to do. I sing in a lower key and feel as proud as can be when applause in ringing in my ears and I take a bow amid rousing cheers.

~ A Royal Honour ~

A letter arrived in Capri which brought much joy to me, reading the contents I now glean I am to receive a Dameship from the mother of the Queen. This gracious lady I well know having been presented to her at the Royal Variety show. I was then eighty and now eighty one as thrilled as the day my career begun. I am richly blessed and I thank the good Lord for my voice, achievements and every other award. I don't take anything for granted I never have and never will, my parents sacrifice I honour still.

~ Dame Gracie ~

From childhood to maturity she trod the halls of fame, will Gracie Fields differ now that she is a Dame? Some say yes others disagree, the future holds no doubt for me. With conviction I proclaim 'Our Gracie' will remain the same.

~ Amazing Grace ~

A remarkable lady with a beautiful voice, expressing the words in the songs of her choice. Dame Gracie Fields queen of the stage, so much a part of a star spangled age. A most friendly lady with a charm all her own, relating with pride the success she has known. Appearing in revues at sweet sixteen to receive great ovations through each changing scene. Now she has reached her eighty first year, who can replace her? no one I fear. I will treasure her memory and keep it in store, I lived in her time I'll not wish for more.