The Book Shop
Stoke's M'lita Dolores - A Forgotten Star Historical Film DVD
This DVD, produced by Staffordshire Film Archive's Ray Johnson, celebrates the life and career of M’lita Dolores, a cherished variety star from the Potteries who captured the spotlight in the vibrant West End during the 1920s. M’lita first won over audiences with her enchanting performance in the hit revue "Listening In," where she shared the stage with the charismatic Will Hay. Between 1922 and 1926, she became a prominent figure in a series of successful revues and showcased her talent on BBC Radio.
Known for her engaging dance demonstrations with Bert Ralton’s New York Havana Band—recognized as the UK’s first jazz band—M’lita brought an exhilarating energy to the iconic Savoy. Her personal life, however, included a romantic involvement with Ralton, leading to a dramatic tour of South Africa in 1926-27. Tragically, Ralton's untimely death during this trip cast a shadow over M’lita’s career, prompting her to retire and relocate to Malta in 1930.
In Malta, she reinvented herself as a beloved radio personality, affectionately dubbed “Auntie M’lita” for her engaging children’s program. This DVD presents a unique collection of cine film from her South Africa tour, alongside delightful photographs and memorabilia that provide a nostalgic glimpse into the life of this captivating performer from the extraordinary 1920s. It’s a treasure trove for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of entertainment history!
Free Click & Collect from our Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent Gallery
Yes, we offer a FREE Click & Collect service from our gallery in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent. This is our preferred method for local customers and those who prefer to drop by.
Please Note: For larger, heavier items, such as paintings or large ceramics, please contact us ahead of your visit. This ensures we have your item available and ready for you to take away without delay.
UK Shipping Costs for Small Items
For smaller items, we use a reliable 48 hr Royal Mail Tracked delivery service. Our in-house packing and postage fee for these items across the UK is £3.95 on orders under £35 GBP, and we currently offer free shipping on orders over £35 GBP.
Please note:
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The 48-hour tracking window begins when your package is dispatched, not when the order is placed.
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A shipping label may be created before the package has actually started its journey.
In-stock items will be dispatched promptly. Should an item be out of stock, we will notify you using the original order contact method to advise you of any expected delays.
UK Shipping Costs for Large Items, Art & Ceramics
To ensure the safe delivery of larger items and delicate ceramics, we use our trusted local postage and packing provider. The cost for this specialist tracked parcel service within the UK is £12.95.
Local Delivery (Stoke-on-Trent Area)
If you are based locally but unable to use our Click & Collect service, please contact the gallery. We can discuss alternative arrangements, such as delivering to you.
Alternatively, we can use our specialist art courier, which costs £12.95 for local delivery.
International Shipping
Yes, we regularly ship artwork abroad. We partner with a specialist art shipment company to ensure your work is professionally handled and fully insured for transit.
As costs vary significantly by destination and shipment size and weight, please contact us at shop@barewall.co.uk for a precise shipping quote to your country.
Questions?
Should you have any further questions regarding your items, delivery, or costs, please do not hesitate to contact us. We're here to help.
Phone: 07932 717 718
Email: shop@barewall.co.uk