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The Pearly King and Queen of Thornton Heath
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The Pearly King and Queen of Thornton Heath
Larry Barnes (1926-2011) - Pearly King of Thornton Heath and one of Variety Theatres last specialist acts. Pictured with his Pearly Queen Maggie (1932-?), who (against common practice) was not his actual wife, but stage partner and assistant, who happily filled in the role of his Pearly partner. Date: circa 1960s
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Media ID 23034804
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Barnes Buttons Ceremonial Cockney Entertainer Heath Kings Larry Londoner Londoners Maggie Medals Outfit Pearly Performer Promo Promotional Queens Thornton Tradition Variety Pearlies
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph showcases Larry Barnes, the Pearly King of Thornton Heath, and his Pearly Queen, Maggie, in their traditional Pearly King and Queen outfits. The Pearly Kings and Queens are a unique and long-standing tradition in the London community, with their distinctive costumes adorned with thousands of pearly buttons. Larry Barnes, born in 1926, was one of the last surviving specialist acts of the Variety Theatres in London. He proudly wore his Pearly King suit, which was a symbol of his status as a respected and beloved member of the community. Pearly Kings and Queens are often mistakenly thought to be married couples, but this was not the case for Larry and Maggie. They were, in fact, stage partners and assistants who happily filled in the role of each other's Pearly partner. Maggie, born in 1932, was a Pearly Queen in her own right. Her presence with Larry in this photograph adds to the charm and allure of this traditional London scene. The Pearly King and Queen of Thornton Heath were not only entertainers but also social figures in their community. They brought joy and laughter to countless audiences and were a source of pride for the people of Thornton Heath. The Pearly King and Queen's costumes were not just for show; they also served as a means of raising funds for various charities. The medals and badges on their suits represented the causes they supported. This photograph is a testament to the rich history and traditions of London and its unique characters, such as Larry Barnes and Maggie, the Pearly King and Queen of Thornton Heath.
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