Cecil Sheridan facts for kids

Cecil Sheridan (born December 21, 1910 – died January 4, 1980) was a famous Irish comedian and actor. He entertained audiences for over 40 years. He performed in many different shows, like variety acts and pantomimes, in both Ireland and Great Britain.

Early Life of Cecil Sheridan

Cecil Sheridan was born in Dublin, Ireland, at 31 Queen's Square. His father, also named Cecil, was an upholsterer (someone who makes or fixes furniture). His mother, Catherine, passed away when he was six years old. Cecil and his brothers and sisters were then raised by their father.

He went to school at Synge Street CBS. When he was young, Cecil had a stammer (a speech difficulty). To help with this, he looked for chances to perform in front of people. He first appeared on stage at age twenty. He won £100 in a talent show, which was a lot of money back then! Even after this win, he kept working in his father's business. But in 1937, after winning another talent contest, he decided to become a full-time performer.

Cecil Sheridan's Career

Cecil Sheridan's shows kept the spirit of old-time entertainment alive. He performed in revues (musical shows), variety shows, and pantomimes. These types of shows were popular before television became common. He helped keep the fun of music hall and vaudeville alive on the Dublin stage.

He often performed at Dublin's Queen's Theatre starting in 1940. He also appeared at the Theatre Royal, Dublin. In 1976, a newspaper called The Irish Times said he was the best part of a show. This was when he sang his own songs in You Ain't Heard Nuttin' Yet at the Gaiety Theatre, Dublin.

Cecil was a regular performer at the Olympia Theatre, Dublin. He even helped raise money to fix the theatre after part of it collapsed in 1974. He was in the very first show when the Olympia reopened in March 1977.

Writing His Own Shows

Cecil Sheridan wrote his own material for his acts. This included entire pantomimes. One time, his version of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was about to start. But then he found out that Walt Disney's famous cartoon of Snow White was opening nearby.

So, Cecil quickly wrote a brand new pantomime called Mother Goose. He managed to get it ready for its first show on the same day he had planned for Snow White! His clever use of words and jokes earned him the nickname "Parody King." A parody is a funny imitation of something well-known. One of his most famous parodies was based on the song "Let The Rest of the World Go By." He also wrote funny songs, like "Hannigan's Hooley."

Cecil also toured Scotland with musician Andy Stewart. He performed at the Metropole Theatre in London, too.

Acting Roles

Besides comedy, Cecil Sheridan was also an actor. He appeared in several stage plays. This included the very first performance of Brian Friel's play Crystal and Fox. In this play, he had a supporting role as Pedro. He was also in some films made in Ireland. These included Ulysses and Where's Jack?.

In 1966, he had a very special acting role. He played the trade union leader, James Larkin. This was for a big show at Croke Park that celebrated Ireland's fight for independence.

Cecil Sheridan's writings are kept safe at the Dublin City Archive. They are part of the Irish Theatre Archive.

Cecil Sheridan's Family Life

Cecil Sheridan was married to Ann ("Nan") Doyle. She passed away in 1978, before him. They had three children together. Their son, Noel, became the director of Dublin's National College of Art and Design. They also had two daughters, Ann and Barbara. Cecil Sheridan passed away at the age of 69. He is buried in Mount Jerome Cemetery.

Film Appearances

Cecil Sheridan acted in these films: