Lesser Known Roadshow Families

The Martin Family Roadshow

"I think that if travelling variety shows came back they could make a go of it," says Marie Martin, daughter of Joe Martin, Ballsgrove, Drogheda. Joe and Marie were part of the Martin family's travelling roadshow, which at one time had Drogheda people almost kicking down the door of the old Savoy Cinema, Fair Street, to catch their performance. Many from north county Dublin to Trim and Ardee will remember the Martin family, and indeed half a dozen other family variety shows which survived in this country for decades.

Other family names associated with Fit-Ups and Roadshows

Some family names associated with fitups in Ireland included Cassells, Cullen, McFadden, Murray, Bird, Perks and Bell. Turbetts, Hudsons, McCormacks, McGuirks, Wilmots and Grahams were often associated with coastal amusements. While “Master” Cassells used to ‘winter’ over in Portmarnock in the yard behind where is now Jimmys bike shop.

I would love to know more about any of the above mentioned families and in particular their on the road history and  stories, photographs, articles can be mailed to me for inclusion in this site to gerry@gerrycostello.com. ......  All help is greatly appreciated to maintain the memories, the history and the legacy of these great times.