The Roly Polys

Although they didn't ever have their own TV show (I think) the Roly Polys guested on dozens of TV shows and appeared on stage supporting many variety acts and comedians through the 80s and 90s.

Basically the Roly Polys were a dance troupe consisiting entirely of overweight middle-aged women who would perform the most amusing dances which, if they had been young and slim, would not have been at all funny.

I have no idea what happened to the Roly Polys - the last I heard they were performing alongside Cannon and Ball in Blackpool 1999.

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Michael Johnson

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Do You Remember The Roly Polys?

Brian Eames on 2008-07-13 09:44:22

I have just returned from a cruise with Marie Ashton who was one of the Roly Poly's and her husband. I have known Marie for 40 years. She went for an audition in 1982 and got the part of a Roly Poly. She was the chorographer. Then in 2003 Marie suffered a major stroke, and not being able to work again very shortly after, the act was disbanded. During their 21 year reign, they performed in 5 royal command shows, personally invited to perform in a show in Monaco for Prince Rainier, in the audience were Frank Sinatra and Charlton Heston to name but a few. They were featured many times in the Les Dawson show and toped the bill in many variety shows. I was honoured to appear with them at Fareham Halls. They were a great act and we will never see another like them. Pleased to report that Marie is very well indeed and is an inspration to all stroke victims. Marie can be contacted on marie.diamond@talktalk.net BRIAN EAMES JULY 13TH 2008