John Fisher added to Chortle event

The author of one of the most authoritative books on comedy has been added to the line-up of the Chortle Comedy Book Festival.

John Fisher has enjoyed a long career as a TV producer, but is also known as the author of the definitive volume Funny Way To Be A Hero, which was first published in 1973.

Lauded as one of the best books about how comedians work and the history of comedy performance, it traced the traditions of the music hall comedian as they were handed down through the great British comics of the 20th century. From Dan Leno, the Crazy Gang, Will Hay and Max Miller to the likes of Arthur Askey, Tony Hancock, Frankie Howerd and the Goons.

The landmark book is being re-released on Thursday to mark its 40th anniversary, updated with six new chapters and a lavish design featuring more than 350 illustrations.

At the festival, Fisher, whose TV credits include The Bob Monkhouse Show and Channel 4's Heroes of Comedy, will be interviewed by stand-up Andre Vincent, himself a devotee of the history of comedy.

Fisher has also written biographies of George Formby, Tony Hancock and Tommy Cooper, the latter of which is being adapted as a film.

He will be at the event in Ealing Town Hall on November 27. Click here for details or here to buy his book.

Published: 5 Nov 2013