About This Show
The story behind the remarkable scripts begins in 1952 when comedy writer Larry Stephens convinced the BBC to let him create a new comedy series expressly for his friend, rising radio star Tony Hancock – then best known as a supporting player. Entitled Vacant Lot, Stephens’ series focused on life in the dull faded fictional seaside town of Churdley Bay where the blundering, slightly pompous and barely tolerated Hancock – a local auctioneer and wannabe councillor – aspires to better his lot.
The performance – entitled The Lost Hancocks: Vacant Lot – features both episodes (all that exists) with impressionist James Hurn (Dead Ringers) as Tony Hancock, leading a cast that also includes Janice Connolly (aka Mrs Barbara Nice; Phoenix Nights; Coronation Street). Predating Hancock’s Half Hour, the ‘sitcom’ coincides with a revival of interest in both Hancock (who passed away 60 years ago this year) and writer Stephens, who is soon to be the subject of a new biography.
