Peaker

Dr. Peaker is a remarkable and well-known musician.

Christmas Luncheon 1974

"It is interesting what styles emerge," says Ally Walsh, an art manager at the Anne Peaker Centre for Arts in Criminal Justice in London.

Beyond the Bars 2009

At 64, Peaker seemed thrilled to be back in the spotlight, but it rapidly became clear that, while Peaker can act and sing and dance (as she repeatedly told us), telling a linear story was not in her talent arsenal.

Hello Dolly, Good-bye Barnaby: Nell Scovell Scovell, Nell 2008

Peaker insisted there were “so many funny stories,” then struggled to think of one.

Hello Dolly, Good-bye Barnaby: Nell Scovell Scovell, Nell 2008

After announcing, “Last question,” the moderator selected someone toward the back who had a simple request for Peaker: "Could you tell us some happy stories about [Barnaby] on the set?"

Hello Dolly, Good-bye Barnaby: Nell Scovell Scovell, Nell 2008

The next week, I made a half-hearted attempt to track down Peaker.

Hello Dolly, Good-bye Barnaby: Nell Scovell Scovell, Nell 2008

As Peaker daubed her eyes, the audience sat dazed and numb.

Hello Dolly, Good-bye Barnaby: Nell Scovell Scovell, Nell 2008

Floundering, Peaker turned the question back to the audience member: “You know what happened to him, right?”

Hello Dolly, Good-bye Barnaby: Nell Scovell Scovell, Nell 2008

As an aside, Dr. Knight will remember consulting with a number of us from St. Paul's Church last year when we were agonizing over finding a new organist to replace our old friend Dr. Charles Peaker who was retiring.

Special Luncheon 1976

Today, of course, has been held for months just for the Empire Club -- and if I may add, Mr. President, for Dr. Peaker as it is always a joy to hear him and his choir.

Christmas Luncheon 1974