Comic Roots

Episode 1

Michael Palin

29 mins

Short biographical documentary about comedian Michael Palin and his early interest in acting and comedy. Includes his education at the Shrewsbury School and Oxford.

Episode 2

Billy Dainty

'Dear Mum, I'm crying as I write this letter, so please excuse the tearstains...' wrote 12-year-old Billy after he got his first taste of show business as the only boy in a troupe of Dancing Babes. Things didn't get a lot better. He grew up to become the back legs of a dancing donkey. Among other things in this programme he meets up again with his front legs, sings with his sister Betty and gives an unlikely rendition of Hamlet.

Episode 3

Alexei Sayle

Alexei Sayle was one of the founders of what has come to be known as 'alternative comedy'. His roots aren't in the traditional theatre but in the pubs and clubs more associated with the world of rock music. He started drinking in Liverpool when he was 14. 'I never had any trouble getting served 'cos I've looked like this since I was three.' At 17 he exchanged the pints of the northern pubs for the 'G and Ts' of London clubs. Alexei takes us on a memorable journey round the places which feed his imagination. We start at opening time and end ... well, in the early hours.

Episode 4

Kenneth Williams

29 mins

The self-confessed comedy legend revisits the areas of London where he grew up, shares reminiscences, and performs songs from his memories in a public house.