Peter Robbins
31st March 1953 - 15th April 2009
|
PETER ROBBINS Peter Robbins, my friend and 'Sister' for thirty years died suddenly at the age of Fifty-Six in 2009. Peter & I first played 'Ugly Sisters' for my brother Vivyan at the Kenneth More Theatre in Ilford in 1981. We both enjoyed the experience and seemed to 'gel', so decided to try for a second year at Porthcawl Grand Pavilion. A year later we were in Paul Elliott's office, and remained with the E&B and Qdos family for the next twenty-six years, appearing in (strangely) twenty eight pantomimes. Those pantomimes have taken us from Aberdeen to Plymouth, to Birmingham, Nottingham, Cardiff, Southampton, all over the UK, and with each panto we've met up with folk who have remained firm friends. We were lucky enough to spend several years with Rolf Harris, Windsor Davies, with Gary Wilmot and, recently Brian Conley. Peter began his career at the Westminster Children's Theatre, in rep at Butlins for the Denville Players, and tours that included 'No Sex Please' and 'The Monkey Walk'. He also toured in the Rock Musical 'Hair'. Peter's first dame was at Camberley. He was, in his words 'far too young', and professed it was a 'disaster'. Whilst touring last Autumn I obtained the revue, and would produce it much to his chagrin at odd moments. He was mortified that it simply said 'Peter Robbins was as tall as the Beanstalk!' Peter was an accomplished Puppeteer, a skill he honed by working with his friend Sue Dacre. Peter used these skills in the Warner Brothers Film 'Little Shop of Horrors' and in two Henson movies, 'Muppet Christmas Carol' and 'Muppet Treasure Island'. Like everywhere he went, Peter acquired many friends during these times. Peter and I toured in productions of 'Christmas Carol'- was Scrooge, I was Young Scrooge (that was a source of fun over the years), and in children's tours such as 'Wind In The Willows', 'The Wizard Of Oz', 'Pinocchio' and 'Hansel and Gretel'. In recent years Peter spent his summers touring with the Illyria theatre company, and was very proud to be an 'Illyrian'. He appeared as Lady Bracknell in 'The Importance of Being Earnest' both on tour and at the Edinburgh Festival, and as Sherlock Holmes in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' as Holmes. He was at the Edinburgh Festival in that role in 2008. Peter and I were featured in a Channel 4 documentary 'Pantoland', which followed us around the country with our touring 'Pantomime Roadshow', which we started fourteen years ago, taking the 'magic' of pantomime to primary schools twice a year. An accomplished cook, Peter's pride and joy was when we appeared on 'Ready Steady Cook' as the Sisters, and he won with his 'Sharon's Surprise Pudding'! He was also very proud of appearing in Jennifer Saunder's 'Mirrorball' for the BBC. Anther great source of pride was appearing as 'cover girls' for the panto book 'It's Behind You' by Peter Lathan. For nearly thirty years we have shared dressing rooms, quick change rooms and usually digs. Our working relationship was at times like a marriage, and to countless pantomime cast members Peter was the provider of teas, coffees and mince pies at every interval. I am so pleased and so privileged to have spent thirty years in Peter's company. My thoughts go out to Peter's partner, Phillip Buckley, To Peter's Brother, Bob and Ann Robbins and their children Leslie-Ann, Roxanne and Justin. Nigel Ellacott |
|
PAUL ELLIOTT at Peter Robbins's Funeral 6th May 2009 There is nothing more I can say today that all of you here have not thought or said about Peter. This 'Sold Out' matinee is a tribute in itself. 27 years ago at the Gordon Craig Theatre in Stevenage I first met Nigel and Peter. They were highly recommended but I had never seen them work ,so I took a chance,well, it was only Stevenage!!! It was a chance that paid off and we worked together for the next twenty-seven years, they became 'Family'. In the early days they were 'raw'..but talented. They respected the principles of pantomime, but a little on the common side! Peter's 'Ere!' had an edge that could curdle milk! As the years went by Peter's 'Ere!' became more 'Lady Bracknell' than 'Peggy Mitchell!' Peter was the perfect foil to Nigel, both as a performer and offstage, they were a great team. He was never overtly, nastily evil as a 'Sister', his genuine kindness shone through his characterisation so audiences could laugh..as well as boo. Peter was a consummate pro..his performance always looked fresh, even after twenty-seven years! He had that great ability to make an audience think it was the first time he had said that joke..or ad lib.. the first time he had seen Nigel fall off the chair and the wig fall off in the 'Slipper Scene'. I calculated he had seen it 1,944 times!! He never got bored or 'phoned in' his performance and always, even in rehearsals gave 100 percent. He, with Nigel were role models to the younger members of the cast. They showed that Pantomime is a serious art form and has to be worked at and maintained to attain the quality they stood for. Peter had a 'bounce' about him,he gave you the confidence that his and your cup was more than half full, as MY cup of tea and MY mince pie was waiting just for ME- as it was for everyone who came into their room. Their dressing room was the centre of the company, and Peter in high heels and dispensing tea and biscuits is a sight we will sorely miss. During the last twenty-seven years Nigel and Peter played every major theatre in England.. and under protest Edinburgh! (Which turned out far better than Peter thought it would!) They 'Wowed' them everywhere. The 'X Factor' was surely theirs! I have never heard one person have a bad word about Peter or Nigel.. they were always welcome wherever they went..including some of the extraordinary venues they played in their 'Pantomime Roadshow'. Peter was one of the good guys,he helped make Pantomime something to be admired.. He was too young to leave the stage.. but maybe in that great theatre in the sky they needed a good actor..an excellent puppeteer, and a superb Ugly Sister. To paraphrase the 'Cinderella' script- 'You shouldn't have gone you Fat Old Bag!',. And a voice up there will reverberate in the clouds.. 'What do you mean,OLD?' Thank you Peter for all the joy you have given us. |
|
OLIVER GRAY writes I first met Peter when he auditioned for Illyria back in 2000 when I was casting The Importance of Being Earnest. I distinctly remember him walking rather formally into the audition room, working really hard to maintain a dignified composure; needless to say all that went out of the window the moment he started giggling and confessed he hadn't brought his glasses to read the extract from the play. "I don't normally do auditions," he boomed - and in that moment I knew I had my Lady Bracknell. Peter toured for 2 consecutive summers in 'Earnest'. Then, after a break of 6 years, he came back and toured for another 2 summers as Sherlock Holmes in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles'. I shall always think of Illyria, both as a company and as group of hard-working actors, ridiculously lucky, and immeasurably richer, that he agreed to do them. Generosity was Peter's trademark. When the Hound team played the Edinburgh fringe festival he took great pleasure '“ and considerable pride '“ in producing freshly laundered and ironed costume-shirts for each cast-member for each show. When jobsworth ferry staff were threatening not to allow the Earnest van onto the only sailing for Guernsey, he vanished briefly once the team had eventually embarked only to return with 2 of the duty free's finest bottles of champagne which he insisted they all drank at 7.30 in the morning. Touring with Peter was a constant joy because he had a literally inexhaustible supply of stories about his days in Rep or the great stars he'd worked with in panto, to wile away the long hours on the road. How could you not be entertained listening to how, in a tour of Ivor the Engine, he played both an elephant keeper AND the back end of the elephant, sometimes in the same scene? On a particularly grueling Illyria get out in North Wales, which involved lugging slabs of steeldeck for several hundred yards in torrential rain, it was Peter who kept up morale by cracking jokes throughout '“ although afterwards, glugging some vintage cava, he firmly announced 'There are 2 things I shall never forgive Oliver Gray for: Conwy Castle '“ and Scene 15.' Scene 15 '“ for the uninitiated, was the final scene in The Hound of the Baskervilles where Holmes, uninterrupted, takes 4 sides of single-spaced A4 pages to recap and explain the entire plot of the play. Peter worked with many Illyrians in the 2 shows he toured with: Clare, Abbi, Laura, Pip, Mike, Adam, another Clare, Al, Miriam, Leela, William and myself. But there is one more, who must surely feature centrally in the minds of all Illyrians when they think of Peter '“ and that, of course, is Dolly the Tea-trolley. Dolly '“ or Miss Trolley in the theatre '“ was just a knackered old tea-trolley I'd found in a junk shop in Wakefield. All she did was squeak when pushed, but in Peter's hands she became a work of comic genius. The day I first brought her into rehearsals I gave her to Peter and apologized for the dreadful squeak; 'But don't worry,' I said, 'I'll buy some WD40 and we'll get rid of that for you.' 'YOU SHALL DO NO SUCH THING!' commanded Peter, 'I HAVE GREAT PLANS FOR THAT.' Indeed he had, for the tea-scene in Earnest was almost eclipsed by Dolly's simple progress from U/S to Centre Stage, although with Peter, resplendent in a candy pink Merriman costume, the route was not a simple straight line but one which could only be described as circuitous. Dolly's brief appearance actually won her an award at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2001, for Best Performance at the Fringe, no less. She appeared again in The Hound of the Baskervilles, but 6 years in storage '“ and, to be fair, the amount of leaning-on by Mr Robbins to extract every last decibel of squeak - had taken its toll on her, and while her squeak was as shrill as ever she had developed a wobble. Needless to say Peter mined this new ailment for all the comic potential it was worth. Once again, a simple wordless scene involving a servant serving a meal '“ this time wearing a false beard and gurning in such a way as to suggest the soup was poisoned - reduced an audience to tears. |
We have been overwhelmed by so many messages about Peter from friends, colleagues and members of the public - he would have been truly astonished.
We reproduce some of them here as a tribute to Peter. If you still wish to add your thoughts below, please email us.
Click on Image
1981 - 2008 - A look back at 27 Years of Sisterdom!!
Click on Image
|
I first met Peter long before I began working with Qdos. Even when I was but a pantomime "anorak" Nigel and Peter were warm and encouraging about my passion for this great theatrical tradition we all love. It was a great pleasure that my association with Newcastle Theatre Royal began with a wonderful production of CINDERELLA starring Jill Halfpenny, Clive Webb and Danny Adams and of course the legendary Nigel and Peter making their Newcastle debut and making a dream of mine come true seeing two great stars of the pantomime world on stage in my home town. I was desperate for my home audience to experience their magic - and how they shone! Peter was a complete gentlemen. A true "pro" if ever there was one. Not only a very talented character actor but a wonderful man offstage. I remember he fell on the last night of that production on stage in front of a packed house. He loved this as theatrical superstition says that means you will one day return to that venue. I am deeply saddened that this will not be the case and we will miss the many more years of panto fun planned. Peter spent 27 years with Nigel working for E&B/Qdos. The loss to the pantomime world is immense. From Kathryn, myself and everyone at Qdos we send our heartfelt best wishes to Peter's family, everyone at ITS-BEHIND-YOU.COM and of course our much loved Nigel. I'm sure Peter will be looking down on us all - and probably teaching the angels how to do the ticket tearing scene! With love Michael Harrison, Kathryn Rooney and the entire Qdos Family. |
|
Michael Harrison, Peter, Jonathan Kiley, Nick Thomas, Nigel, Paul Elliott, Jon Conway The Qdos collection! |
|
We were terribly sorry to hear of the sad loss of Peter. When you both worked with us in Newcastle, you both became dear friends and wonderful workmates. Show business has lost a marvellous performer who will be remembered for many years. All our thoughts and condolences go out to you and his family. Lots of love in these sad times, Clive and Danny |
|
|
|
I was extremely shocked and saddened to hear of Peter passing away. After working with him for several years we became like a family with the rest of the panto cast. We would all be there for each other, whether it would be to talk or listen, and Peter was one of the most sympathetic and generous men I have ever known. His professionalism on stage was second to none and his performance was consistent throughout a sometimes gruelling 8 week run. My thoughts are with his family and of course Nigel, who has not only lost a partner, but also a great friend. I will miss him dearly and the panto world has lost a great '˜Sister' and actor. Sean Needham (Prince with Peter '“ 2002-2007) |
|
|
|
I am so sorry to hear your terrible news, it has come as such a shock to us all and hasn't sunk in yet. Vicki Michelle |
|
I cannot believe it. I heard the sad news over the weekend. Please
accept my love and condolence at this very difficult time. I will
always have happy memories of directing the panto at Darlington.
We have lost a great guy and a great artist.
Love Keith Simmons
|
|
|
|
At only 56 you don't
expect this sort of thing to happen. You must be devastated, and it will
take time to take it all in. Try and remember all the great times you had together, and the many laughs shared. I'm sure this is what he would want. I personally feel very lucky to have known Peter and I'll never forget the tours we all did, and we'll have Peter's films to remind us. You take care, I know you are surrounded by really close and dear friends, and they will help you through this. Lots of love Pete & Derrick |
|
I was so very sorry to hear of Peter's passing and I send me deepest sympathy to you and his family. It was lovely to see him in Nottingham and also to be able to introduce him to some of our friends at the taping of Ian's 'Swan Song'. He was in such good form and seemed so happy with Phillip. I can only begin to imagine how you are feeling, losing a colleague and friend of such long standing. You really were 'sisters' and companions during those grueling runs and the road shows. Please let me know if there is any way I can make myself useful during this difficult time and please be assured of our condolences. I will be in London at the weekend and will light a candle in St Paul's, Covent Garden. Jack |
|
Peter and Dawson Chance |
|
I'm so sorry to hear the sad news that Peter passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with you, his family and friends. I passed near by his house today on the bus and actually thought to myself that i would call him and go around for tea and cake, then i got the news. It was such a pleasure to work with him.
Lots of love and healing wishes. |
|
|
|
I was saddened to learn the terrible news about Peter's death last week. My thoughts are with you and his family at this difficult time. It was a privilege to have had the opportunity to work with Peter during the last three years of pantomime roadshows here in Wolverhampton. He had a wonderful presence in front of our young audiences and was such a natural at what he did, he will be sadly missed. I hope you are as well as can be expected and hope to see you later in the year. Very best wishes, Louise xx Louise Bent |
|
|
|
I am absolutely devastated at the news of the death of Peter, and my deepest sympathies go to you at what must be a dreadful time for you. I've only met Peter on a couple of occasions but was always struck by his friendliness and happy personality. Words always seem so useless at a time like this but I just wanted you to know that I am thinking of you at this difficult time. Much Love Dougie Douglas Mounce |
|
We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Peter. We send our condolences to you all, and our thoughts are with you With love Sarah, Steve, Iain, Louise and all the team at Imagine Theatre xxx |
|
|
|
Just had to write and
say how sorry I was to hear the sad, sad, news about Peter. Oliver Gray
rang and told me. I had the great pleasure of working with Peter on Illyria's Importance of Being Earnest. His Lady Bracknell was a delight to behold. I found Peter to be the consummate professional, always knowing when to work and when to play. He made it the Champagne tour and I know the whole team have fabulous memories of the two summers we spent together. A lovely man, and a great loss to the entertainment industry. My thoughts are with those who were close to him and who will miss him dreadfully. with love Clare (aka Jack Worthing) |
|
All here at The Mayflower Theatre were very sorry to hear about the death of Peter Robbins. He last worked with us in 2002 for a wonderful pantomime season. It is a great loss to the industry of one of the best. All our thoughts and condolences are with you and his family at this sad time. Kind Regards Robin |
|
The Cast and Crew of Cinderella - Nottingham 2008/9 |
|
I
felt compelled to drop you a line as I only learned last night of Peters
very sudden passing. I cannot express how shocked and sad I am and my
heartfelt condolences go out to you, and all of Peters family. I shall remember so fondly the wonderfully welcoming "open house" dressing room at High Wycombe a year and a half ago, and how you both were very much my salvation from the depths of the under stage orchestra area. Not forgetting of course how good the interval cup of coffee was along with all the good showbiz gossip and anecdotes! Very much thinking of you at what I can only imagine as being a very difficult time. My Very Best Wishes Barry Robinson (MD) |
|
I had the great pleasure of being
Watson to Peter's Holmes and spent many happy times touring with
him. His stories were a joy, he lived life to the full. He was as
generous offstage and as he was on. He was the greatest of men. The
greatest of friends. I shall miss him terribly. Love you Peter XXX
Alastair Chisholm
|
|
|
|
We can't believe the news we have
heard today. We have both fond and funny memories of a good friend
and true professional. Peter always treated everyone he met exactly
the same, whether cast or crew, he always had time to stop for a
chat and show an interest. He will be sadly missed and the world of
pantomime has truly lost an amazing sister, and a champion of
keeping the magical world of panto alive today.
Thinking of all those closest to Peter, family and friends and of course Nigel. We send all our love and prayers to you all.
Dawn, Michelle, Michael, Daisy & Luke
xx
( Theatre Royal, Nottingham )
|
|
I don't really know
what to say at this tragic time, but I felt compelled to send you an
email. I've followed your site for a long time and have had the pleasure of seeing Peter and Nigel in pantomime a couple of times. It was always a great pleasure and it's a great shame that such magic will never be brought to the stage again. My thoughts and prayers are with you, his friends and his family. Naomi |
|
|
|
PETER a warm, generous, engaging, and utterly UTTERLY hilarious person both on and off stage. I can still recount so many of your telling stories borne of years of experience like,. the well known singer (nameless) who would, in order to cope with the highest notes, shape them as; 'Would You Like To Fly In My Beautiful, My Beautiful, ,, BALLAWWWWWWWWW!!! That and so much more delivered with an Ethel Merman of a voice to keep us in stitches during the filming of THE LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS at Pinewood. So much life and energy. Ride that ballaw to the stars! I'll miss you. Lots of love Don x |
|
|
|
I am so sorry to hear the sad news about Peter. I'd seen him on many occasions and always thought he was an excellent performer. The sister role is a tricky one to get right but Peter (along with your good self) was always pitch-perfect, combining just the right balance of comedy and wickedness. The world of pantomime has lost one of its great ambassadors. Our thoughts are with you and Peter's family. Best wishes, Paul Hendy |
|
I
just wanted to pass on my deepest sympathies again to you. I have been
in bits all day, total shock, then floods of tears. Goodness knows how
you must be feeling. You shared so much of your life with Peter. So many
happy times , but more importantly you were there for him in his darkest
times too. I know how much this meant to him. You are the best friend
that anybody could wish for and Peter loved you so very much XXX In all
the sadness I have been reflecting on how lucky I was to have known
Peter and to have worked with him too. I also have have such lovely
memories of Hull, it was a privilege to work with you both, you had such
a lovely energy together, it is something I shall never forget XXX Big hugs and love Alastair XXX |
Just a brief message to say that you are in our thoughts wishing you all the best in these difficult times. It is a great loss to the pantomime genre and the theatre industry as a whole he will be sadly missed as a great performer and friend.
With our Love and thoughts
Bob and all the technical and stage staff at the Theatre Royal
Nottingham. |
|
|
It is with such a heavy heart that we write to you following tragic news of Peter's cruelly early demise. What a shock this was to learn and our hearts go out to you and to Philip. You were such an integral part of each other's lives.
We cannot imagine the grief you must be feeling. Yes, it was so wonderful to remember the last visit with Peter - his warm embrace, his twinkle in his eye, and the broadest, loveliest smile.
He gave me a camp, wee ballerina doll from the ROH that I have hanging from my bedside lamp. It brings me such a warm feeling to look at it knowing the kindest of spirits with which it was given.
With much love to you, dear heart,
Your friends,
Ian and Jack
|
|
I was so, so saddened by the loss of
Peter. He was such a kind, funny character who I know will be missed
by so many. I feel so lucky to be able to say that I knew such a
wonderful man, albeit for a very short amount of time.
Sending my deepest condolences to his friends and family.
Sally
Birmingham Hippodrome
|
|
|
|
The sudden death of Peter is a sad
loss to the world of pantomime. For twenty years he was one half of
the foremost Ugly Sister duo's in the UK and we, along with
countless others enjoyed his work immensely.
Peter was also an actor, puppeteer and a very nice man who will be greatly missed. Roger & Stephen
Darrock & Howe
Ugly Sisters
|
|
|
|
Just seen the very sad news about Peter. I just wanted to add my
condolences to the many that I am sure that you will receive. My
thoughts are with Nigel and all Peter's family. I only worked with Peter
once as a member of the backstage crew at The Mayflower, Southampton and
he was without doubt one of the nicest people in the business. Both he
and Nigel made us all feel important. Their dressing room was always
open to all.
God bless you Peter. We will all miss you in Pantoland. Mark Raggett |
|
|
| I AM SO SORRY TO HERE ABOUT THE SUDDEN DEATH OF PETER, PANTO LAND WILL NOT BE THE SAME THINKING OF YOU AT THIS TIME JOHN OSBORNE, BRIGHTON |
|
I can't begin to describe the shock
and sadness I feel at the news of Peter's death. He was one big
talent and an amazing character and the world is the poorer at his
passing. I know you must be devastated.
Yours Simon (Barry) |
|
|
|
My deepest sympathy goes to his family
and all at its behind you. I met the sisters a few years ago when
they were in manchester and I was performing in bolton. Absolutely
smashing couple of chaps and it seems very sad that it always seems
to be the nice people that die young. A lovely man and one half of
the best set of uglies in the business.
Much Love.
Michael James Batchelor.
|
| I am so sorry to hear the news about Peter. My heart goes out to you. None of us know what is around the corner. God bless him. Paul Tate.xx |
|
|
|
Sincere Condolences,
Nigel, family and friends. Hoping the knowledge that Peter was held in
such high regard, affection and joy by so many thousands will be of some
comfort to you. Not just a light that has gone out but that famous
twinkle in the eye you could see from the gods. God Bless, Russell Labey. |
|
I just wanted to
express how sorry I am to hear about Peter. It is very sad news and my
thoughts are with you. Simon Fielding. X |
|
|
|
Although our paths
never crossed we have many mutual friends and
All spoke with
great love and affection for Peter. He will be missed. With our deepest
sympathy Darren Johnson |
|
We just wanted to say how dreadfully sad we were to hear about the
loss of Peter. It was a real privilege to have seen him perform in
a number of shows over the years. He was always professional and
from our side of the footlights he always gave a great deal to his
performances and his on stage partnership with Nigel was a joy to
experience.
We shall miss him and I am sure if there is anything like pantomime
on 'the other side' he will be there giving it his all.
Much love to you both at this sad time.
David & Steven
|
|
|
|
I am saddened and shock at the news of Peter's death. I worked, although briefly, with Peter and Nigel at the Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield. I had the pleasure of working with Peter during casting for a London run. This has come so out of the blue. Peter was a loving and caring character, and I shall miss him terribly. I know that the whole pantomime community will be in shock for months to come. Nigel, my thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Much Love, James Issitt |
I don't know where to begin. So shocked to hear about Peter. Very sad obviously. You must be devastated, I know how close you were.
I have such fond memories. Always a smile, even when things were difficult for him.
Thinking of you. Jason x
|
|
|
|
What an unexpected loss a fine artist
whom I saw many times in Panto and was looking forward to seeing
again this Christmas. My Heartfelt sympathy to all his family and
friends...the panto scene will miss his wonderful performances.
Roger Frost
Worcestershire
|
|
my deepest sympathy
I have been very saddened by the
news of the sudden loss Peter, Both Nigel and Peter have been an
jewel in the crown of pantomime for a very long time,
thankfully I got the chance to go nip
over before our show in St Albans in 2008 to High Wycombe for a
matinee to see the legends work their magic, however I regret deeply
not having a chance to say hi as had to dash back for an evening
show. You always think they're be another chance.
However Peter Robbins has left a huge
legacy and been a massive inspiration to alot of people
best wishes
Martin Ramsdin
|
| Just read this very
sad news. I had the joy of working with Peter on Cinderella at Wimbledon
in the late 1990's. He was not only a wonderful ugly sister he was also
a wonderful man.
Best wishes to all his loved ones.
Andrew Wright
|
|
|
|
I am very sorry to
hear of the loss of Peter. Having been a pantomime enthusiast for many
years and following the stories of Nigel and Peter I am very sorry to
hear. This year marks my first professional pantomime at chistmas as a
performer and my thoughts will be with this dear, dear man throughout
the Christmas season. Having seen 'the sisters' in Newcastle I knew I
was in the presence of masters of their craft and watched with
amazement. Peter will be forever missed, but never forgotten. My thoughts are with Peter's family and friends. Today marks a day in theatrical history when we lost one of our best and more passionate pantomime performers. Reece Sibbald x |
|
|
|
I am deeply shocked at the news of
Peter's passing, I know what you are going through and are in my
prayers and thoughts. Keep your chin up mate, it's a difficult time
but there is light at the end of the tunnel.
My fondest wishes to you at this sad
time.
Roger. aka. Charles Burden.
|
|
|
|
Words cannot express the shock and
upset at hearing the news of Peter's sudden death.
This is without doubt a massive loss
to so many people - family, Nigel, Simon, friends, colleagues and of
course fans.
My thoughts go to all who were close
to Peter. He was a wonderfully talented man, friendly and I cannot
imagine the pain that so many people are going through.
David McNeill. StagedRight
Productions, Carlisle
|
|
What
a terrible shock - I haven't seen Peter (or Nigel) in person for
nearly ten years - but my memory of Peter was a man full of energy
and fun - a pleasure to work with.
I
keep remembering funny stories from the sisters' first year at the
Nottingham Theatre Royal and from my brief time at Qdos/E&B in 1999
- great memories.
A
tragic loss to the industry. Mine and Lisa's thoughts are with
Peter's family and friends (and especially Nigel).
With
love
Nick
Parr
|
|
|
|
My name is Chris and i
am 13 years old. I saw Peter in Plymouth, Nottingham, And the first
Panto i saw was in Aberdeen with Nigel and Peter! I didn't know him
that well but it was him that got me into the pantomime and theatre And
i am actually quite sad to hear we have lost one of the greatest
sisters in history !! Chris.s xxx I am gonna miss you in pantomime !xxx |
|
We were so, so very sad to hear of
Peter's death. Not only is pantoland robbed of a huge star but
we have lost a wonderful, kind, funny man.
All our sympathies to Peter's friends
and family, and especially to Nigel.
Roy Barraclough
Mark Llewellin
John Jardine
|
|
|
|
I had the privelage of
seeing Nigel and Peter as "Sisters" in Birmingham 3 or so years back and
I was hoping to see them (if the rumours were true) in Wolverhampton
this Christmas. They were the best Sisters I have seen, they really
worked well together and had the audience in stitches. Pantoland has
lost a true legend. I'm very sorry to hear of this news. Marcus. |
|
A FINAL CURTAIN CALL
Such a cloud was spread when Ian Sandy
phoned, to tell us the sad news about Peter.. .
Show business will miss a wonderful
performer, and having only once played ugly Sister myself and just
scratching at the craft, I know how much work and skill it takes,
and how important it is to have the perfect partner to work with. It
goes with out saying the partnership between Peter and Nigel was
perfection, how sad we will never have the pleasure of seeing that
duel performance again
Nigel our thoughts are with you and
Peter's family.
Maurice Thorogood and Pat Hayley
|
|
I am shocked and saddened to learn
today of the sad loss of Peter. My thoughts go to Nigel and Peter's
family and friends. Peter together with Nigel were the best uglies
in the business and brought much enjoyment to many children and
adults alike.
Pantoworld will be a much sadder place
without Peter.
Kind Regards
Michael Butcher
a pantomime lover
|
|
|
|
I write to offer my sincerest
condolences regarding the sudden death of dear Peter. I had the
pleasure of seeing him in panto several times and was always
thoroughly entertained. It is a sad loss to the business, my
heartfelt best wishes to his family and close friends. R.I.P. dear
Peter, may light perpetual shine upon you..........
Andy Le Marr.
|
|
Very sorry to hear such sad news.
best wishes
Steve Allan Jones (MD)
|
|
|
| I just wanted to drop
you a line to say how sad I was to hear of Peter's sudden death. He was
and will continue to be an inspiration to many people in the business
and will be a massive loss to the world of entertainment. My thoughts
are will Peter's family and friends at this very difficult time.
Martin Ballard |
|
I would like to say
how sad I am about Peter Robbins dying. I have seen him in pantomines
and I found him very funny. I am twelve years old and I would like to
say that I hope that all his friends have lots of happy memories of
him. from Travis Caven |
|
|
| We are incredibly
sorry to hear this very shocking news and we want to pass on our
condolences to Mr Robbins family, to Nigel and friends. With deepest sympathy Adrian Barry Director The Music Hall Guild of Great Britain and America |
|
My
thoughts are with you at this very sad news about Peter, such a
talented man who shall be greatly missed.
In
the great tradition of panto I'm sure he would say that he's
'always behind us!', in more ways than one.
Please pass on my condolences to all that were close to him.
Keith
De'Winter
|
|
|
|
I have felt literally overwhelmed by
sadness since hearing the news of Peter's death. What a truly wonderful
man. I can't believe he has gone.
Peter first auditioned for Illyria
back in 2000 when I was casting The Importance of Being Earnest. I
distinctly remember him walking rather formally into the audition
room, working really hard to maintain a dignified composure;
needless to say all that went out of the window the moment he
giggled and confessed he hadn't brought his glasses to read the
extract from the play. "I don't normally do auditions," he boomed -
and I knew I had my Lady Bracknell.
I don't know what I could possibly say
about Peter that hasn't been said: but I shall always think of him
as the kindest, most generous and funniest
man I have ever
known. Working with him was a privilege I wish I felt I'd deserved.
Thank you Peter for contributing so much to the Illyria tours you
took part in. Thank you for making us laugh until we were in pain.
Thank you for those few little moments of quiet wisdom you'd utter
when you felt comfortable enough not to perform. I'm so happy
that in the last year you began to find the love and the peace and
the happiness that you so richly deserved.
Peter Robbins, haughty Lady B,
formidable Sherlock Holmes, you were nothing less than a prince
among men. We Illyrians all miss you terribly.
Oliver GrayThere is a short tribute from Illyria on their homepage as well |
|
|
|
I'm so very, very sorry to read this. We saw the incredible duo
in 1996 and 1997, 2007, 2008 & 2009 and they really were both
incredible entertainers.
As we always sit right in the middle of the front row (and my husband is bald) EVERY year either of the Ugly Sisters / Trinny / Susannah have picked on my husband as either having spent all day doing his hair - then leaving home without it - or they'd chose him as their 'boyfriend' of that show. For all the pleasure that both Nigel and Peter gave, we thank them and send our very deepest condolences to Peter's family and friends - but most of all to Nigel. Love Yvette Price-Mear and her family xxx |
|
I am desperately sorry to hear that our
good friend Peter has passed away. As you know, Peter has been in my
life for almost the whole of my theatrical and non-theatrical career
since around 1982 I think. He was a great great man and it seems strange
that only a few months ago we were having drinks together in Nottingham
during, what has turned out to be, his last Pantomime, which I am so
privileged to have seen.
I have many lovely memories of the times I have spent with you Nigel and Peter and I know he will be truly missed. He was an amazing, professional, kind,
loving, and very funny man, and I loved him dearly. |
|
|
|
I was so lucky to work with Peter and
Nigel in Pinocchio for Barrie Stacey and we were always laughing -
Peter was the Fox and Nigel the Cat -so professional and so funny -
It was in Swansea that the word 'lurking' crept into the script
after an article in the local paper! Peter also announced the local
dance school spot as 'Doris Topping's Tasty Tappers'. We all love
you and we'll all miss you Peter.
Michael |
|
We were extremely shocked to hear of
Peter's passing. Our thoughts are with Nigel, Simon, Philip and Peter's
Family and friends, all of whom must be devastated at this great loss. Pantoland has lost another great performer. Who will be sadly missed. However we are certain that with so many wonderful memories...this Star will never fade! Rest in Peace. Love Antony Stuart-Hicks & David Phipps-Davis |
|
|
|
I was very saddened to hear of the
sudden death of Peter Robbins, i worked with Nigel & Peter in
Southampton in 2002 and had the privilege of working with the
greatest 'Uglies' that pantoland has ever seen. Nigel & Peter
introduced me to the wonderful world of pantomime and have had the
pleasure of working in Pantomime every year since. You will be
missed and thanks for being so friendly and fun and thanks for all
the wonderful nights out and fun times we spent in Southampton.
Robert Clayton
Southampton Mayflower Theatre
|
|
It was with great
sadness that we heard of the sudden death of Peter. I had
seen him perform as ugly with Nigel at the Birmingham
Hippodrome which made me even more want to do the same.Paul
worked with Peter many years ago and has fond memories of
that. Lets hope he gets a starring role in the big panto in
the sky.
With feeling,
Michael Fordred and
Paul Critchlow ( Ugly Sisters )
|
|
|
|
I am still reeling from
the sad news that Peter is no longer with us. I am not only saddened
because I considered him a friend, but also because another great panto
artist has left our world, and what a shame that his fantastic
performance will never be seen again. My deepest sympathies go to his
friends, family and of course Nigel. He will be truly missed. Laura Taylor xx |
|
Peter, Nigel, Val Nalton, Teresa, Andrew Ryan, Laura Taylor |
|
We were all shocked and
very sad to receive the news about Peter. A wonderful professional and
gifted performer was Peter. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and yourself. I am certain the love and the laughter will always be remembered. Paul Holman |
|
|
|
So sorry to hear the sad news of the
passing of Peter Robbins. Our thoughts and prayers are with Simon and
Nigel. He was a funny man with a wicked wit and will be terribly missed.
Lots of Love, Chris Marlowe & Colin Luke |
|
A very sad time is upon us. My thoughts
are with Peter's close friends and family. A wonderful guy with a smile
to make anyone giggle - a glam sister and a true pro. He will never be
replaced. Long live the memory of his talent.
Craig Glover |
|
|
|
I'm so sorry to hear the news. Peter was a
great Ugly Sister and a really nice guy. He will be greatly missed.
Peter Lathan |
|
I was so very sorry to hear the sad news
of Peter's death this morning. I had the good fortune to meet him on a
couple of occasions and see him perform on many. A true performer and
gentleman of the Theatre. My sincere condolences to his family and
friends.
Steve Arnott |
|
|
|
I'm sorry to hear of the sad loss in
Pantoland,my thoughts are with Peter's family and friends, and sending
my love to Nigel at this sad time,. David Robbins x |
|
Very, very sad news. My thoughts are with
Peter's family and his extended pantomime families. With fond memories
of Birmingham, Manchester and High Wycombe. Rest in peace Peter. x
James Arnott |
|
|
|
A very sad loss!!! A truly talented all
round entertainer!!! rest in peace xxxxx
Leon Craig |
|
I always considered myself blessed to have
worked with the pair, what a truly sad loss.
Michelle Dixon x |
|
|
|
A sad loss and another star joins the
heavens-my condolences to all those who knew and have worked with him
especially his family at this time-
Mark Siney x |
|
It has come as a complete shock to me to
hear about Peter. It's a terrible loss, and my thoughts are with his
friends, family and all who knew him.
Lee Redwood xxxx |
|
|
| I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Peter's death - i have wonderful memories of the shows i did with you two. i can hardly believe it was about 20 years ago when we did cardiff and hull and then transferred to leeds for 2 weeks too where we all shared digs together. They were my first couple of pantos playing a part and i remember being in awe of you both and learning so much from you. I loved watching you from the wings - absolute professionals with a wicked sense of humour - my kind of people! hilarious both on and off stage - it was a pleasure to have shared those times with you - every single show was such great fun, i can remember i couldn't wait to find the slipper on the stairs, because while the prince was singing her ballad i was in your dressing room with tea, cakes and laughter! and the cherry on those cakes was knowing i had the whole trying on of the slipper scene to do with you in the second half - i loved it! i also loved all your showbiz stories, you'd already been performing together for 10years then and i loved to hear all about it - i hadn't seen much of peter over the years since - a few times at the Kenneth More Theatre, but it felt like more because of spending so many times with you Nigel - i can't imagine how you must be feeling - my thoughts are with Peter's partner and family - and to you Nigel, i'm sending all my love and will see you soon - and as for you Peter - i've got a fantastic image of you doing Bette Davis impressions in your dressing gown and singing 'i've written a letter to daddy'! priceless......god bless. Natalie Cleverley. xxxxx |
|
Dear Nigel, We have only just heard the terrible news about Peter, and wanted to pass on our sincerest condolences to you and his family. Peter may be gone but the laughter and joy that he brought to thousands will live on. Our thoughts are with you at this very sad time. Martin, Peter and all at UK Productions Ltd |
|
|
|
So sorry to hear about the loss of Peter,
He was one of the biggest, nicest, warmest and most kind character's that walked through our door's and performed on our Stage!
Rest in Peace Peter. We will always
remember you!
Gaz, and all the boy's and girls who
worked with you, from the Opera House In Manchester!
|
|
I had the pleasure to not only work with Peter on my first ever professional job but also to drive him and Nigel around the country in 'Trannie' our transit van on the first year of the Pantomime info tour. Peter (and Nigel) looked after me on the panto (as I was a bit nervous and naïve) and I have such fond and happy memories of a wonderful time. Spending several weeks driving a van around the country was such a fun experience too, especially if I had to break suddenly and all I heard was 'ahh whiplash' coming from the both of them! I'm very sad to hear of Peter's passing and send my condolences to Nigel and Peter's partner and family. A genuinely funny, warm and lovely person, he will be sorely missed. Lots of love, thoughts and sympathy Daniel Jones |
|
Requires Quicktime (MP4 Format) Documentary following Nigel and Peter as they prepare for the season at Woking with Rolf Harris, Gary Wilmot, Robin Cousins, Jodie Jackson, Judy Cornwall 1997 Iambic Productions Limited Documentary for Channel 4 FILE ONE (4.63MB - 5 Min) FILE TWO (4.62MB - 5 Min) FILE THREE (1.06MB - 2 Min) FILE FOUR (4.62MB - 5 Min) FILE FIVE (4.62 MB - 5 Min) FILE SIX (3.53MB - 3 Min) |
|
I was so pleased
to have seen and met Peter at Birmingham and High Wycombe. He
had a warm, friendly personality and will always be remembered
for those wonderful frocks! A true professional and a star of
his profession.
Terry Powell
|
|
SO sorry to hear about Peter - a huge
shock to us and devastation to you guys.
Thinking of you all at this time
David McNeill
|
|
|
|
Dear Nigel,
I am so sorry for the loss of Peter, I met you both as a young lad while you were both at Nottingham in Cinderella, Bobbie Kent introduced us and then the year after I started Playing Ugly with Bobbie. Since that time of meeting Peter and yourself and seeing you work you have both been an inspiration. Peter will be sadly missed and my thoughts are with you, Peters family and friends. With Love |
|
Dear Nigel, It goes without saying what a great loss we all feel at the sudden passing of dear Peter. I first met Peter on a tour of Snow White many, many moons ago. He was so very kind and friendly, with a wicked laugh and stories to make you roar with laughter. I count myself very fortunate to have known him and to have worked with him. The times we all spent at the KMT chatting away where always very happy days for me, and I will NEVER forget the day we spent recording the dwarf dialogue for the KMT panto - how we cried with laughter as dwarfs fluffed lined, swearing and cursing and singing Hi Ho! My thoughts are with you, and Peter's family. Much love Rob Mitchell-Gears |
|
|
|
I just wanted to say how sorry i was to
hear about Peter. I dressed Peter in panto in 1996 at the Birmingham
Hippodrome. It was such great fun working with Nigel and Peter. I
laughed out loud every day with them. Thinking of you and sending you our love Jane and Matthew Winterbourne. |
|
Dear Nigel
I am truly shocked and saddened to
hear the news of Peter's passing, so suddenly and so young. The
consequence is, unarguably, a huge loss to the great tradition of
pantomime. Please accept my condolences and I would be most grateful
if you will pass them also to Phillip Buckley and Peter's family.
You might recall that I worked with
you both just the once [His Majesty's, Aberdeen 2001/2] playing the
Lord Chamberlain and as CSM. In the latter capacity, I was deeply
impressed that when the snow arrived after Christmas and Peter was
among the three company members to fall foul of the combination of
black ice, granite and gravity in Donald's Alley alongside the
theatre. He was very badly bruised and yet carried on without
missing a performance, coping stoically with the many costume
changes - over twenty, if I remember correctly. A real demonstration
of Peter's professionalism in the face of genuine difficulty. And I
bet not a single audience member realised that he had a problem.
More than that, I was left with the lasting impression of a charming
and gentle man; I am not surprised to see the plethora of comments
about his kindness and generosity as well as his talent.
Ironically, I passed quite close to
Peter's home on the day he died, travelling up from Sussex to
central London for a heart op myself. Though all is progressing
well, I think it is unlikely that I shall be able to join you on May
6. I am sorry to miss it but my thoughts will, of course, be with
you all.
My very best wishes for the future,
Peter Gooday
|
|
|
|
Having seen the Sisters
in panto for the past few years I can say Peter will be most sorely
missed. Even seeing Cinderella 5 times in Nottingham this last season he
and Nigel still made it fresh every time. My thoughts have been with his
partner, friends and family and Nigel in particular since I heard - give
him a good send off!
Pat Stearman |
|
I would like to express
my deep sorrow at the passing of Peter, It was my privilege to meet him
in Edinburgh's kings theatre during a run of Cinderella when Allan
Stewart stepped away from the frock to play buttons allowing us in
Edinburgh to enjoy both Nigel and Peters incredible performances. As a
front of house member we don't get to interact with many of the
performers during panto season but strangely we did with both Peter and
Nigel. Peter was a man with such warmth and generosity of spirit, no
matter how cold outside it was peter could warm us with a nice word and
a smile, a cup of tea and a mince pie. A true gentleman. I do hope Nigel
can find it in himself to carry on in someway in panto although that
will be far from his mind at the moment.
One of the brightest panto stars as moved from the bright lights of our theatre stages to the brighter lights of the stars above, I will miss him, and will always hold the memories close of our special little chat in the kings foyer, Brett Herriot xx |
|
|
|
The loss of Peter
Robbins to the world of Pantomime is almost beyond words. Having had the privilege of working with Nigel and Peter, on two sensationally successful seasons at the Birmingham Hippodrome, I am filled with many happy memories. Scanning through the pictorial and written tributes says it all. What a great man to work with, especially during those insane weeks we call rehearsals! If I had to select one memory to share? Peter had the amazing ability to hoover up a buffet faster than anyone in show business. Well, possibly with the exception of Dawson Chance. Christmas will just never be the same. RODNEY WORTH. |
|
I just wanted to add my
deepest sympathy to Peters family and his close friends, especially
Nigel.
Kevin and myself have been involved with this mad pair since their early days as Ugly Sisters. We will miss Peter loads, and their mad and clever banter. The perfect sisterhood. Much love and big hugs Gerry Westley |
|
|
|
Nigel.... this is for
you particularly..but to Peter's family & friends too. A unique & Outstanding partnership is over..I cannot imagine the feeling of Loss and sadness that you are going through. My best love to you at this time....x I wish there was a school to go to..or even a degree you could get...to qualify people to Nail the art of playing Uglies..because Peter would have been qualified as Head Master..& you Nigel as Head Mistress! Peter has left a huge impression on the Industry...something we all aim to do..but he really did & has left far too soon. I'm very sad...that audiences will miss out on his sensational performances. Bring in the STAR cloth...house lights out.......Hilary O'Neil xxxxxxx |
|
Dear Nigel, I was deeply shocked to hear the news of Peter's death. You've been involved in what is a fantastic achievement; to be together as a working team for such a long period of time. Bryonie and myself offer our sincere and heartfelt condolences to you now in this difficult time both personally and professionally. love from Graeme Du Fresne and Bryonie Pritchard |
|
|
|
Dear Nigel, I was so very sorry to hear the sad news about Peter. He was a true pro and I am so pleased that I had the privilege to work with you both all those years ago in Bournemouth. I learnt a lot from you both and I will never forget the laughs we had. The world of Pantomime has lost a star - his current gig has gained a right old laugh!!!!!! My heart and love goes out to you Nigel and all his family and friends. Love Susie McKenna |
|
|
|
When I think of Peter
it is impossible to suppress a giggle or contain a laugh. He was such a
skilled and highly talented performer. I would like to thank him for the
wonderful entertainment he brought alongside you, to hundreds of
thousands of people. There are so many memories. Watching him getting changed in a primary school loo or a head teachers office-at some ungodly hour- and then being robbed (in Sherwood!). His immaculate comic timing-fee fi fo fum!. But the ultimate must be the " cough " behind the bush!- 100 wettio of the pantios in one instant. A true class act and a true gentle - man. Once again- sincere condolences to your dearly loved sister. A unique talent. Lewis x |
|
Our thoughts are with
you Nigel and Peter's family. Having now done fourteen panto's with last
christmas being my first time ever as dame and this year will be my
second, if I can be half as good as you I'll be doing a very good job. God bless and much love Robbie Dee & Karen Neale |
|
|
|
I was so sad to hear of
the loss of one of the country's greatest Pantomime Dames. I have seen
him appear in Cinderella in Plymouth on several occasions and am
indebted to Peter and Nigel for their help with my study on the history
of Pantomime which I did for my degree and is now published on this
site. He will be greatly missed by all lovers of Pantomime. My thoughts and prayers are with Nigel, Peter's family and friends. Alastair Walkinshaw |
|
I first met Peter and
Nigel in September 1983 we were rehearsing wind in the willows for a
tour and John Farrow had asked them to appear, Nigel as otter and Peter
as badger and as cast which included various other parts Edward the
horse to name but a few and they both had to remove their make up [which
was extensive] and put it on again during the show. Peter was a darling
turning up each morning with something new he had run up the night
before, a little prop or hat and we toured the show for a couple of
years along with Pinocchio, Alice in Wonderland and Christmas Carol
showing his versatility in many parts! He was great fun to be with and a
very talented performer.
I'm so pleased that I managed to get to Nottingham last Christmas to see him and Nigel in their panto - they were just great the best uglies in the country what a sad and great loss to the panto season and the theatre. Peter made a little film 'Willows on Parade' in which the cast did silly things and I'm so pleased to have it on video as a memory of the great man!! I'm so sorry that I'm not able to attend his funeral but I'm away in Cornwall but shall be thinking of him. It was lovely to see him last February at my darling Phillips memorial service at St Pauls in Covent Garden. Goodbye Peter and god bless you. Jennifer Haley |
|
|
|
Sorry to hear this bad news.
Peter will be greatly missed in pantoland. I'm sure he`s entertaining everyone in the big theatre in the sky. Love Casey Lee Jolleys x |
|
I was lucky to work
with Peter and Nigel as a dancer in Cinderella on two occasions - At The
Theatre Royal in Nottingham in 1997 and The Kings Edinburgh in 1999. I
always remember the laughs, the banter, the showbiz gossip, the cakes in
the dressing room, the after show parties and the outrageous stories.
Peter always helped me to feel part of the Cinderella family and I send
him all love and blessings as I imagine him making a grand finale on the
big walkdown stairs in the sky Sam Cotton |
|
|
|
I spoke to Viv the other day and just wanted to say how terribly sorry I am to hear about Peter. It must be an enormous loss to you personally and professionally Nigel and I wish you lots of love for the future. He was a wonderful man and a terrific performer, thinking of you. Lots of love thoughts and prayers Peter Dayson |
|
I had the pleasure of
working with Peter and Nigel as choreographer at the Newcastle Theatre
Royal in 2005, he was a wonderful man and a great sister!
Much love, Jon Bowles |
|
|
|
We were so very sorry
to hear the sad news that Peter had passed away. May we express our sincere and deepest sympathy to his family and your good self. It was a great partnership and you should be proud of all you achieved over the years. May he rest in peace With love Gordon and Bunny Jay |
|
I first got to meet
Peter like most Illyrians through Oliver Gray. Later I had the pleasure
to cast him in a short film and he was wonderful both on and off camera
- a great team player despite his enormous talents. At the screening a
complete stranger came up to me and said "the film was great but
whatever we intended to write next, we should write for the guy who
played Roger (Peter of course) as he was incredibly funny". When I told
Peter this he said "Oh yes that's a tenner I owe my cousin!!!".
Sadly I only got to see him and Nigel once at their devilishly best in Birmingham a few years ago. I did however enjoy his 'Sherlock Holmes' on many more occasions. Another Illyrian and I am proud to say friend of the great Mr Robbins. Leon Hamilton |
|
|
|
Hello Nigel I was so sorry to hear the news about your partner i'm sure I can't imagine how it has made you feel but please accept my kind thoughts Stuart Morrison x |
|
Peter was so kind to me
when I was at my greenest..... on Muppet Treasure Island I remember he
taught me to try and be more patient, more generous of spirit and always
get the money before you leave. The one thing that truly burns through
like a super nova in my mind was the laughter......Peter's wit was
rapier, but in my experience, never cruel and I remember feeling
lighter, happier and generally nursing sore ribs when leaving the porta-cabin....where
we spent most of our time. People like Peter are rare in this world and
things like this always leave me sad, bemused and a little cross with
the fates that guide things. Steve Kynman |
|
|
|
Having toured with
Nigel and Peter on a number of occasions for Charles Haley Productions I
am privileged to have known and worked with Peter. It was always a joy
to be in his company - funny, warm, kind and a true pro. On stage, as a
fellow actor, he was generous and giving and always had a mischievous
twinkle in his eye. Off-stage the twinkle persisted and would usually be
accompanied by a delicious one-line quip that would inevitably be the
source of one of the best giggles of the day. Peter Wiggins |
|
It was with great
sadness and disbelief that I learnt of Peter's passing; I first had the
joy of working with him on the film "Little Shop of Horrors" where his
endless energy, generosity, razor sharp wit and sheer professionalism
were an inspiration. We made two more films together (of the Muppet
variety) but, alas, I never had the pleasure of appearing on stage with
him, although I never missed an opportunity to catch him in panto and I
had the honour of designing a few frocks along the way. Unfortunately I
am in Australia and won't be able to attend the funeral but my thoughts
and love are with his partner, family and many friends (is there a
church large enough for such a crowd?!) and especially to Nigel, his
"Sister" of so many years. I have lost a dear friend and the world is a much poorer place without him but you can bet his star will burn the brightest in Heaven. With Love Mike Bayliss |
|
|
|
We were so shocked &
saddened to hear of the loss of Peter. Although we had never had the
privilege of working with you both, we last met in your dressing room
after your final matinee performance this year, when along with some
fellow members of the Panto cast from the Nottingham Playhouse we
enthused over each others Pantos, your false eyelashes & Adam's new
coat! Peter - A truly wonderful Ugly Sister, you two together were quite simply the best in the business & the Panto world will miss your Sisters. Our thoughts go out to you & Peter's family at this time. God Bless. Rebecca Little & Adam McCready X X |
|
I am in New York and
have only just heard the sad news of Peter's passing. It is such a loss
to our profession and he will be much missed...they don't make them like
that anymore, sadly. A great pro and a lovely man. My very best wishes
to all those loved ones that he has left without his wonderful presence. Bonnie (Langford) |
|
|
|
We were very sad in
Aberdeen to hear about Peter's departure from the stage to the grand
curtain call in the sky. We have, however, laughed a lot remembering the
way you decorated your dressing room at His Majesty's Theatre, the
picnic hamper flown in the wings and the three tier cake stand, mince
pies and champagne on offer in dressing room 8!
As an ASM on my second panto for Qdos I couldn't have asked for a better cast to work with. I was also understudy for the 'Sisters' and crapped myself when Pete hurt his shoulder when he slipped on ice by stage door. Fortunately for me he carried on regardless, despite being in pain, and gave me an excuse to spend most of my time onstage in the wings watching the 'uglies' in action. ' Did you find the gypsies camp?....... No. I thought they were quite butch!!' Christmas day that year was also very special. My niece Charlotte was born. She is now 7 years old. Aberdeen had a massive snow storm Christmas eve that year, but we all managed to have a meal at the Thistle Hotel on Christmas Day where Stu Francis and his family were staying. The high light of the day was when you and Pete took over the function room at the hotel playing the piano and getting us to sing songs and play games. Pete will be missed. Never forgotten. Paul (Hudson) ASM |
|
I can't remember how
many Pantos we did together but I will miss my pal and I will miss the
many years we stood at the stage door and had a ciggy, putting the world
to rights, Peter usually in full slap as the punters passed by. I can
still hear Peter saying "Morning!" whatever time of day it was, and now
sadly we're mourning, the loss of a great pro. I don't think I
ever walked in the dressing room without Peter saying "Cup of tea?,
cake?, mincepie?". We've lost a truly kind and gentle man, Cinderella
will never be the same. Love Brian, Anne-Marie, Amy, Lucy & Maisy Conley |
|
|
|
Messages of Sympathy received from: Jill Fletcher & David Harper Tinah & Jeannie Fletcher John & Michael Deemer Lesley Brown, Family & The Wardrobe Dept, Nottingham. Keith Salberg Graham Richards & Richard Frost Brian & Jimmy Patton Johnny Dallas Margaret Brice Patricia Michael & Josh Siegel Jeff Ripton & Brian James Horne Jane Stevens Councillor Mrs Joyce Ryan Isabel Jimenez & Colin Steven
Metcalf (Stevie Marc)
Britt Ekland Bella Emberg David Ian Linda Hayden Paul Elliott & Family Jean Halsey Richard Dodsworth Freddie Lees Anthony Lyn
Jody Crosier Bobby Crush Nick Wilton & Lynette
McMorrough Michael Laidlaw Lee Bright Bob & Tigger at
Nottingham Theatre Royal Loraine Porter & Family Vivienne McMaster Phil Compton & Elaine
Gibbs Barrie Stacey & Keith
Hopkins Brian Herring Sue Dacre Vincent Hayes Rachel & Digby Stephen & Tane Jan Hunt & Damian Dawn, Michelle & all at
the Theatre Royal Ralph Dartford & Jackie
Martin Hinkins Maddy Baylis
Stefan Dennis
Ray Meagher
Lesley Joseph
Colin Baker
Sylvia and John Blacker
Judy Graham
Judy Cornwall
Joy Graham |
|
|
|
It was with sadness and
shock That I read of the sudden death of Peter Robbins. He had great
talent and what a loss he will be to his ugly sister Nigel and also to
the world of pantomime. My thoughts go out to his family and friends and
to his dear " sister" Nigel. May he find peace and happiness in the big
Theatre in the sky. God bless him and keep him safe. With feeling from Michael also Paul and Eileen |
|
Peter and Nigel gave us
something to treasure. Through this terrible, untimely sadness,
something beautiful will always shine. We'll always have Peter in our
memories and those memories will be filled with joy and laughter. I
didn't get to work with Peter, just loved and admired him from 'out
there in the dark'. It takes astounding beauty to create such exquisite
ugliness. love Joe Standerline |
|
|
|
Remember me the Senior
Stagedoor Keeper at Wycombe Swan? I have just read with great sadness of
the passing to the green fields of Peter, truly one of the GREATS. He will be sadly missed by all his adoring fans, I have fond memories of you both from your time with us at High Wycombe so please accept our thoughts and prayers and our hearts go out to his family and partner. Fond memories Bob Eastland |
|
|
|
We have lost a 'master'
- and we have lost a wonderful human being. I am very proud to say that
I appeared with Peter (and Nigel) in their very first outing as Uglies.
This was at the Gordon Craig in Stevenage - and I will never forget the
happiness and kindness that emanated from Peter. Goodbye for now old mate - I will sadly miss you. Spencer K Gibbins |
|
Dearest Nigel, I sincerely hope that this gets to you, and I can't actually believe that it's only just occurred to me to contact you via the website. I cannot tell you how shocked and saddened I was to hear about Peter. Ian was kind enough to let me know and once again, I felt part of 'the family' and that huge warmth that the two of you always generated. It's devastating for everyone but so much more so for you, and I hope that you are coming to terms with everything. We always had such a blast, and I cherish the memories of the two of you so much more than you will ever realise. No one can think of Peter without smiling, and that will always be the most fitting way of remembering him. The great joy that the two of you brought to so many people, and the warmth and love that you both have always generated hopefully will help at this appalling time. With all my love, please if there is anything that I can do just shout. Thinking of you sweetie, Lara |
|
|
| After getting over the initial shock on hearing the sad news about Peter I can only remember what a pleasure it was working with him during our panto seasons. I never saw him in a bad mood, he was always full of cheer. A very kind man. Very generous. I remember once in Nigel and Peters dressing room I went in ,on the scrounge for a mince tart and I happened to mention that I liked Peters new kettle and that I was on the look out for a similar one. The very next day Peter presented me with a brand new kettle that he had gone out and bought just for me! He was always thinking of others. You will be sadly missed Peter. Lots of love. Baron Hardup. Dawson Chance. |
|
Synnove and Peter in Plymouth |
|
I have lots of great
memories of Peter and especially when we did our charity collection
for the Asian Tsunami at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth. We were both in
costume and we had a great giggle while on all fours on the dressing
room floor counting all the change. It was always a laugh around Peter.
Love Synnove |
|
|
|
Dear Nigel,
Just been doing one of my regular
trawls of It's Behind You and shocked and extremely saddened to
learn of Peter's untimely passing.
What a tragic loss. I have nothing
but fond memories Peter, none more so than when you came to dinner
with Joanna and I here in Sawley whilst we were all involved with
QDOS, Cadbury's Bring you the Magic of Pantomime launches and of
course the Roadshow. Peter was a star both on and off stage.
My picture (shown above) shows you
both bringing the some Cadbury Magic at the Wimbledon launch during
the summer of 1998.
I am so pleased that we met up after
10 years at Nottingham this year and that I was able to enjoy some
time with you both and witness one of your last performances
together. It was a night to remember!
Joanna and I send our love
and sincerest condolences to you and Peter's family.
Graham and Joanna x
|
|
Dear Nigel & all at
Its-behind-you.com, I was shocked to hear the awful news of Peter Robbins' sudden death on Thursday. I have been fortunate enough to see Peter & Nigel's fabulous Ugly Sister act in pantomime several times, the latest being in Cinderella at Nottingham in December and January. As a team, they were consummate performers and my friends and I will miss their superb double act, even if we did get picked on! My heart and deepest sympathy go out to Nigel and to Peter's family and friends. Best wishes Linda Wallis, Ealing, London, W5 |
|
Dear 'It's Behind You
Team' and Mr. Ellacott, Reading your 'Pantomime Diary' has become, in recent years, part of my annual 'its-getting-near-to-Christmas' treat. I like to wait until October to read the next version and as such it can be quite a few months between visits to your site. Therefore, it has been quite a while since I last 'logged in'. Today I thought I'd have my first seasonal peek and I was shocked and saddened to learn that Peter had passed away earlier this year. I've just spent a few minutes reading about Peter and looking at some of the tributes and I am so moved. I was lucky enough to see Peter three times; twice as an Ugly Sister and once as Lady Bracknell (in the pouring rain in a marquee in Chichester) - replete with 'Miss Trolley'. Every time was a comic treat. It was not until I read of Peters' death that I realised what a strong interest I'd taken in the Sisters and inparticular in your website. Thinking back I recall seeing the Sisters on 'Blue Peter' as a teenager, then on various local news programmes and finally 'in the flesh' with Brian Conley in Manchester a few years ago. They appear to have been with me a long time and my interest has been sustained by the comic life and stagecraft that Peter and Nigel gave them. I can't imagine the loss and pain that is bought by the sudden seperation of such a partnership and reading the tributes only gives me an inlking of the loss the extended theatrical family must have felt this Spring. Although it is somewhat late, I want to add my heartlfet sympathies to Nigel and to Peters' family and friends. Your work, your website and your mutual enjoyment of theatre, education and particularly of pantomime have enriched my life - and I wish you to know that. Please keep up this fantastic website and Nigel - if you will accept a very personal overture from a complete stranger - I'm guessing this coming panto season will be very strange for you, but please remember that you have thousands of fans 'out here' supporting you and wishing you every success. Kind Regards, Martin Warren |
|
Nigel At this time of year, I look forward to reading your 'diary' so I logged onto your site today. It is with a very heavy heart that I read of Peters passing. I know it is a while ago now, but I really felt I had to say something, so I hope you don't mind. Being a Brian Conley fan I have enjoyed seeing you all in Panto for the past few years. You were an formidable team, and never ceased to amaze with your comedy prowess and attention to detail with your comments, even making the 'scripted' gags look as though they were meant to happen. The messages of condolence on the site must give you an idea of how much he was loved and how much you are both thought of. The Panto world has truly lost a wonderful star and Nigel, we can only imagine how it must be for you at this time of year. Sending you all our love and best wishes Kirsty, Ian and Kieran from Swindon xxxxx |
|
|
This page was last updated 31st March 2017
