Happiness & Laughter: A Grand Charity Screening Honouring Sir Ken Dodd’s Legacy

Thu 20 Mar, 2025

Every year on March 20th, we celebrate the International Day of Happiness: A perfect occasion to honour Sir Ken Dodd, the man who embodied joy, laughter, and light-hearted fun.

Written by Mark Lee

Ken was a master of silly humour, often telling farcical tales of Already-Broken-Biscuit factories and Jam Butty mines. He would prance about on stage, waving a tickling stick and cracking jokes about his mother-in-law. Then, in 1964, he happened upon a song that so perfectly represented his sensibilities and outlook on life: Happiness. The song was written by American country star Whisperin’ Bill Anderson; but was never a hit in the United States. Dodd’s cover of the song resonated with the British public, charting in the top 100. It wasn’t the biggest hit on his repertoire (that distinction going to Tears, which became a UK Singles Number 1!) But still, it went on to become the comedian’s signature song, embodying everything that he represented.

It continues to resonate, reminding us of his infectious humour and the legacy he left behind. Happiness has real staying power , regardless of how troubled times are, or how distant we are from the song’s release, it is applicable. The song is truly timeless.

“Happiness, happiness, the greatest gift that I possess. I thank the Lord that I’ve been blessed… With more than my share of happiness” – Ken Dodd

This May, we invite you to a very special charity screening of  The Real Ken Dodd: The Man I Loved, a star-studded, exclusive documentary that provides an unprecedented look into the private world of this legendary comedian. Presented by the Ken Dodd Charitable Foundation, this grand screening will be in aid of Shakespeare North Playhouse, ensuring that Ken’s impact continues to support the arts.

A Documentary Like No Other

Produced over four years with full access from Ken’s widow Lady Anne Dodd, the film takes an in-depth look into Doddy’s private world. It is the perfect way to celebrate the life of Liverpool’s most beloved comedian. In the documentary, Children’s Laureate Frank Cottrell Boyce spoke about Dodd’s style of humour, championing him for embracing “the power of innocent laughter.” ”Innocent laughter… The laughter that is just for its own sake… That is poetry. There are very very few people who can pull that off. Ken is the giant of that.

The film features tributes from an array of beloved stars including Stephanie Cole, Les Dennis, Harry Hill, Lee Mack, Miriam Margolyes, Paul O’Grady, Johnny Vegas, and Sir Ian McKellen, each sharing their admiration and personal memories of Ken. Narrated by Miriam Margolyes, who credits Ken for helping launch her career, the documentary is a candid, insightful, and heart-warming tribute to one of Britain’s greatest entertainers.

Adding to this special occasion, Lady Dodd herself will introduce the film and host a short Q&A afterward, offering a unique chance to hear first-hand stories about the man behind the legendary tickling stick.

Ken Dodd’s Everlasting Impact

Beyond the silver screen, Ken’s influence lives on. From our Sir Ken Dodd Performance Garden to the Sir Ken Dodd Happiness Centre currently being built in Liverpool City Centre, his unbridled joy and generosity continue to enrich communities and live on in the architecture of the city he truly adored. His legacy has also inspired a national museum exhibition, making him the first comedian to receive such an honour.

This charity screening is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate the man who made Britain laugh for over 70 years. Don’t miss out!

 

The Real Ken Dodd: The Man I Loved

Saturday, 3rd May 2025, 1PM

🎟️ All proceeds go to the Shakespeare North Trust (Registered Charity No. 1120641)