As Sam Vagg (1827-65) he was a chimney sweep but as Sam Collins he was an "Irish" singer. In 1862 he took over the Lansdowne Arms, turned it into a music hall and renamed it after himself. Sam died young but 'Collins' survived. Rebuilt in 1897 it was wrecked by fire in 1958. Only a shell remained and in 1963 all but the front elevation was demolished.
The 1958 film 'Davy' is set largely in this theatre, and is, mainly, filmed at the actual location. See ArthurLloyd for details.
This section lists the memorials where the subject on this page is commemorated:
Collins Music Hall
Born and died in Stratford-upon-Avon. His birth date is usually given as the 23rd, the same date as his death, but all that is actually known is that he was baptised 3 days later, on the 26th. Even...
Architect of theatres. Those still standing in London include: the Vaudeville, the Lyric, the Garrick, Her Majesty's. Born Bath. Died at home at 26 Mecklenburgh Square.
Born Giovanni Maria Emilio in Switzerland, son of Agostino, of the Gatti family. Barrister, with inherited business interests in the theatre and electrical power supply. Westminster councillor fr...
Person, Commerce, Politics & Administration, Theatre, Switzerland
Actress. Born as Emilie Charlotte Le Breton at St Saviour's rectory, Jersey. She married Edward Langtry in 1874 and they moved to England, where they became established in London society. She had a...
