The Fit-Ups

A booklet from the collection of Patrick (Pa) Houlihan, describing the life and times of the travelling entertainers known as the ‘Fit-Ups’.

“The “Fit-ups” was the name given to the old drama and variety companies that flourished in the first four decades of this century up to the coming of the talkie films and later Television which sadly put them out of business.

These shows played each town or village on a weekly basis from Monday to Sunday. On arrival at a new venue, the hall which was in many places a tin shed had to be “fitted-up” with stage, scenery and curtains, plus chairs or plank seating for the customers who would pay to see the entertainment.”

(excerpt from ‘Cast a Laune Shadow: Reminiscences of Life in Killorglin’ by Patrick Houlihan. Click here to see more.)