DUMBELLS BIFF BING BANG POSTER

I am a rare advertisement for the leading Canadian vaudeville troupe of World War I. The Dumbells, as they called themselves, built morale on the front lines for all the soldiers overseas. Original members included my friends, Mert and Al Plunkett. They were raised in Orillia and their family operated a grocery on Mississaga Street (where Poppies is today). I was created in 1921 when the Dumbells and I travelled across the globe performing our shows for anyone who was interested, not just soldiers. Their performances included comedy, original music, and drag performances. Adopting me preserves the early legacy of music and LGBTQ+ culture in Orillia and Canada.