T. E. Dunville

T. E. Dunville (born Thomas Edward Wallen; 29 July 1867 – 21 March 1924) was a leading English music hall comedian, described by Charlie Chaplin as "an excellent funny man".

He performed in a staccato style, with songs and verses such as "And the Verdict Was", the chorus of which comprised four short lines such as "Little boy/ Pair of skates/ Broken ice/ Heaven's gates".

Remaining successful for more than thirty years, Dunville gave his last performance at the Grand Theatre, Clapham on 20 March 1924.

Dunville had suffered with depression for several years, and he left his (second) wife, Dora, a suicide note including the words "I feel I cannot bear it any longer.

[11] Dunville created a style of movement called "leg mania", which influenced later comic performers including Max Wall and Billy Dainty.