This month is a busy one for fans of American singer Al Jolson. Despite this being the 61st year since his demise, the man who was America’s most famous and highest paid entertainer in the 1930s still has a significant and dedicated international fanbase, not least in Malta, where the local branch of the International Al Jolson Society regularly hosts events related to the singer’s career in film and music.

Earlier this month in fact, the local branch celebrated ‘Talkies Day’ with an exhibition about the ‘talking picture’, The Jazz Singer, which Jolson starred in back in 1927.

The next event will be the AlJolson Malta Gathering, which is being held today at the Royal British Legion at 111, Melita Street, Valletta. Starting at 4.45 p.m. and open to everyone, the gathering will include the screening of documentaries aboutAl Jolson and a film starring the legendary minstrel.

On October 26, the local society will, for the first time, be organising a Mass for Al Jolson, at St Francis Church, Valletta, at 10 a.m.

The Maltese branch of the International Al Jolson Society will, for the third consecutive year, take part in the ceremonies commemorating Remembrance Day on November 13, since Al Jolson had also played a part in entertaining the US and Allied forces during World War II.

For more information about the local branch of the society and its activities, call Vincent Williams on 9988 0489 or e-mail vinwilljolsonmalta@gmail.com.