Black and White Vanities, Broad Arrow Boys

This programme advertises a theatrical performance titled Black and White Antics, presented by the Broad Arrow Boys, a prisoner entertainment group at Pentridge Prison. The performance took place on 23 June 1946 at 2.00 p.m. sharp and was staged for an audience within the prison.

The cover features a cartoon prisoner character wearing a broad arrow uniform and carrying a cane, reflecting the light-hearted and humorous nature of the production. The programme also contains parody advertisements and comic references, including businesses such as “Snow’s Fruit Stall”, “The Mara Taxi Service”, “Wright’s Blankets” and “Ike Tunney the Pawnbroker”, all fictional creations designed to entertain the audience.

The term “Broad Arrow Boys” referred to prisoners. The broad arrow symbol had long been used by British and Australian governments to mark government property and was commonly stamped on prison-issued clothing and equipment. Over time, the term became a nickname for prisoners themselves.

The show was presented as “A C Division Production”, indicating that the performance was organised by prisoners housed in C Division.The programme listed thirty acts, including songs, comedy sketches and musical performances with tongue-in-cheek descriptions such as “He should, he’s been here long enough”, “the song, not Castlemain” and “Pat takes Pete to Dreamland, but it ends in a Nightmare.”

The programme also contained a mock disclaimer:

“Any resemblance in the title of this show to a ‘Tivoli’ Production is purely intentional.”

Another joke noted:

“The sketches used have been stolen from other shows, but what would you expect in a place like this.”

The performers also stated that the proceeds of the show would go to the Ned Kelly Boys’ Home, located on Sydney Road, Coburg.

The acknowledgements page thanked a range of contributors, including the Governor for granting permission, costume makers, printers and prop makers. The final entry humorously thanked:

“The Judges — For sending us here.”

Prison concerts and theatrical productions formed an important part of recreational life at Pentridge during the twentieth century. They provided opportunities for prisoners to develop skills in acting, music, stagecraft and comedy, while offering a welcome break from the routines of prison life.