Scottish Singer Versatile Artist

Press, Volume CV, Issue 31057, 12 May 1966, Page 20

Scottish Singer Versatile Artist

The young Scottish entertainei whose singing of “The Scottish Soldier” has reached a high position on the record sales charts of the world arrived in Christchurch yesterday

Often hailed as “the young Harry Lauder,” Andy Stewart is already an actor, comedian singer and impressionist at the age of 32.

But behind the scenes Mr Stewart is very serious about his profession. “Ever since 1 got into show business I’ve tried to learn everything possible about it. Show business is tremendously fascinating and for me it has been particularly rewarding. Mind you,” he added, “I work hard at it”

He has tackled, with considerable successes, the stage and television. Now Mr Stewart is interested in films.

“There appears to be a strong possibility that a film will be made based on the life of Sir Harry Lauder. Both London and Hollywood are interested, and from time to time my name has been mentioned,” he said. “If it comes to pass it will be a real challenge, although I've worked on television which is a much more highly disciplined art form than theatre work.” As he talked about the late Sir Harry Lauder, Mr Stewart showed that he had a detailed knowledge of the great Scottish entertainer.

It was a great shame, said Mr Stewart, that Sir Harry Lauder’s effects were auctioned at his old home near Strathaven. “Fancy everything being scattered to the ends of the earth. It would have been much nicer if they could have been used in a Lauder museum.” Mr Stewart had a representative attending the sale. “I do not know what he has bought I already have two

of Sir Harry Lauder’s walking sticks,” he said. Humour was appreciated all over the world, said Mr Stewart. “It does appear that the French and the Scots are somewhat preoccupied with death, and impending death, in their brand of humour, whereas the English humour relies on poking fun at the Establishment and their bet-ter-known institutions.” Next month Mr Stewart will make a guest appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show in New York. Asked what he would like to have been if he had not become an entertainer, Mr Stewart thought for a moment and replied: “A writer.” He wrote a play at the age of 18 and still feels a desire to write. “But I think the time is not right yet,” he said. As well as making tours himself and recording, Mr Stewart also is a promoter of shows. “I sign up well-known Scottish artists and send them on tour. One such show is at present in the United States.”

Mr Stewart is a keen motorist when he has the time. He drives a Bentley. “I’ve had about 30 cars of just about every type you can mention —much to the horror of my accountant.”