Mexborough and Swinton Times December 30, 1939

New Manager

Mr. H. J. Butler, former manager of the Pavilion Theatre, Wombwell, is to succeed Mrs. May Martin as manager of Wath Majestic Theatre, and took over his new duties this week.

A man with a unique record in the sphere of theatricals and public entertainment Mr. Butler came to Wombwell eight years ago. He was born of a family which had been closely connected with the stage for three or four generations and he hs, been associated with practically every type of entertainment.

He has appealed with Royalty, sung in the streets, managed at least a score of theatres in England and Canada, produced Pantomime and even trained performing fleas.

One particularly interesting feature is that he discovered the popular comedian Douglas Wakefield who, once his chocolate boy at Bridlington is now married to a sister of Gracie Fields. Mr. Butler was born In London and made his first appearance on the stage at the age of four.

At the age of 19 he became manager of the first picture theatre at Scarborough, and from there went to open a theatre at the Winter Gardens at Bridlington.

Since then he has had a long and active career.