Classic Comedy: Laurel & Hardy

Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy were perhaps the screen’s most beloved comedy team. And there was a reason: these two guys genuinely enjoyed working together. So when they did a slapstick type film, there was special chemistry — and nowhere did this chemistry come across more than during their rare musical numbers on the screen. Their stage act was also boffo because they were so versatile. And Hardy, in fact, had an excellent singing voice.

Here’s a little gem (which we particularly hope younger viewers and students of comedy and “stage presence” will watch). Click on the You Tube below and you’ll see a computer colorized version of one of their most famous musical numbers from Way Out West.

This little bit is sheer comedy genius for the way it’s staged. If you’re a student of comedy, particularly watch Oliver Hardy’s reactions throughout and how he not only makes Laurel funnier but makes the number more than just a duet with a lip sync inserted into it. He was the best film straight man, ever.