Cinderella at Hull New Theatre – The Chuckle Brothers
Everyone at Hull New Theatre was saddened this weekend to learn of the passing of Barry ‘Chuckle’ Elliot who, along with his Brother Paul, made-up the legendary comedy double-act The Chuckle Brothers
The Chuckle Brothers have been an important part of the New Theatre’s heritage, having performed at the venue many times since 1995, including as stars of the Theatre’s fabulous 2012 pantomime Sleeping Beauty and more recently in their own children’s touring productions.
We know how much Hull and our wider audiences were looking forward to seeing Barry and Paul in Cinderella this Christmas.
Hull New Theatre’s manager, Janice Wincott said:
“The thoughts of us all at Hull New Theatre are with Barry’s family and friends at this time.
Audiences can be reassured that Cinderella will proceed as scheduled and in honour of Barry we will be working closely with our pantomime producer Qdos Entertainment to focus on making this year’s show a spectacle of family-friendly comedy featuring the very best of panto tradition.
We are also currently working closely with Qdos Entertainment to announce a revised star line-up for Cinderella and will share casting news as soon as possible.”
Nick Thomas, chairman of Qdos Entertainment said:
“Barry’s passing is a tragic loss to the pantomime art-form and the world of entertainment. The warmth and versatility of The Chuckle Brothers’ comedy has kept them relevant to generations of TV viewers and theatregoers.
We know how important pantomime is to so many people in Hull and we’re working closely with the theatre to make sure this year’s New Theatre show lives up to the long tradition of brilliant festive productions at the venue. We will share further casting news over coming weeks.”
Cinderella opens at Hull New Theatre on Thursday 6 December.
Official statement from The Chuckle Brothers management
“We are devastated to confirm that Barry Chuckle the veteran television and theatre entertainer has died at the age of 73.”
A statement from his manager Phil Dale said:
“It is with great sadness that the family announce that Barry passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his wife Ann and all his family.
Barry with Paul had recently filmed a new series titled ChuckleTime for Ch5 and he said it was just like the wonderful days of filming ChuckleVision for BBC1.
Barry hadn’t been well towards the end of the filming and summer work was cancelled whilst he rested at his doctor’s request. Unfortunately, not long after this, his health deteriorated.
The family would like to express their thanks to the many people who have been fans of The Chuckle Brothers and they know that they will share in part, the great, great loss they feel.
Paul added ‘I’ve not just lost my brother; I’ve lost my theatrical partner of many, many years and my very best friend.’
There will be no further comment at the moment and it would be much appreciated if the privacy of Barry’s family is respected at this most difficult time.”