Pensioners needed to join Birmingham variety group

Oct 9 2009 by Christina Savvas, Birmingham Mail

PENSIONERS who can sing, dance, juggle or create magic are wanted to join a group of variety artists set up more than half a century ago.

The Buccaneers Variety Artistes – a group of elderly entertainers which began in 1952 – are looking for more members to help stage its next production.

The amateur group was set up to perform at old people’s clubs but as they have closed down, performances have moved to sheltered accommodation and retirement homes across the region.

The majority of its 14 members are aged over 70 but co-founder and production member, Roy Farley, said volunteers of all ages were welcome if they had a talent to show off.

The 77-year-old grandfather-of-four, from Walmley, Sutton Coldfield, said: “When I left school I formed a Latin American band and we did shows but that folded after a few years.

“I wanted to continue entertaining so a friend and I set up the variety group, The Buccaneers Concert Party. We had a pianist, an accordion and we got the name because we needed costumes and somebody had some pirate ones we were able to use.

“My friend emigrated to Australia about 30 years ago but I carried the group on and then we decided to change the name to the Buccaneers Variety Artists to reflect the various acts.”

John Nash, from Great Barr, joined the group as a magician five years ago. The 59-year old, who works in a car parts factory, said: “It is voluntary, nobody gets paid and we go around the old people’s homes giving free shows.”

The group is holding an open day for new members on Tuesday and October 20, at 8pm. at Britwell Hall, Britwell Road, Boldmere. More details on 0121 329 3938.