The Secret Policeman's Ball 45 years old

Amnesty decided not to present a benefit show in 1978 in order to consider how to make better use of the performing talent so favourably disposed to assist it in raising funds. Peter Luff left Amnesty in 1978 and the organisation's new fund-raising officer, Peter Walker, was deputed to work with Lewis on reconfiguring the show to raise more money and greater awareness of Amnesty. Lewis proposed to Cleese that in addition to the comedy performances the show should feature some contemporary rock musicians. Cleese delegated this responsibility to Lewis who recruited Who guitarist Pete Townshend to perform, as well as New Wave singer-songwriter Tom Robinson.

Credits

The Secret Policeman's Ball Cast

Name Character
Billy Connolly He was 37, now 82 years old as Himself
John Cleese He was 40, now 85 years old as Himself - Various Roles
Rowan Atkinson He was 24, now 69 years old as Various Roles
Peter Cook He was 42, 57 years old when he died as Various Roles
Michael Palin He was 36, now 81 years old as Various Roles
Terry Jones He was 37, 77 years old when he died as Himself - Various Roles
Pete Townshend He was 34, now 79 years old as Himself

The Secret Policeman's Ball Crew

Name Department
Roger Graef as Director. He was 43 (now 88) years old Directing
The Secret Policeman's Ball poster
The Secret Policeman's Ball (45 years)

  • Release day: Saturday, December 22, 1979
  • Runtime: 75 minutes