Two of Britain’s best-loved antiques experts are joining forces to create their own unique show to showcase their passion – and the audience can enjoy the fun for free.
David Harper and Charles Hanson, who met through filming BBC Bargain Hunt 10 years ago, hope to help people beat the January blues thanks to a fun-packed live event coming to Hansons’ saleroom in the Midlands.
And they’re calling for antique fans across the area to dig out their treasures as they will be the stars of the event, which will take place at Hansons’ Etwall Auction Centre, near Derby, on Sunday January 19, from 2pm.
It will be brimming with audience participation, historical knowledge and comedy magic and the fun will come free. People can simply drop in on the day or follow the fun on Facebook Live.
David said: “It will be like a TV antiques show on steroids. I want to share my knowledge in a new, entertaining and unedited way. The show will be funny and real. I’ll push the boundaries in front of a live audience and broadcast the fun to a global audience via Facebook Live.
“This will be different. It will be a no holds barred voyage of discovery with plenty of laughs along the way – as it happens. And Charles Hanson will be my sidekick.”
From left, Charles Hanson and David Harper.
Charles, a familiar face on TV for nearly 20 years, said: “It will be totally live and unscripted. We’re passionate about what we do but also love to entertain people. We’ll make it fun for everybody.
“Anyone can come along. All people have to do is dig out their antiques and collectables as they will provide the content, conversation and historical context throughout the event. And, of course, we’ll be delighted if they consign them to auction on the day. With clients’ permission, we hope to film their objects when they go under the hammer to complete the story.”
The event, which will include talks, antiques quiz questions and competitions, will be ground-breaking, according to David.
He said: “It will be completely new, fresh and energised. This is something Charles and I have been talking about for over a year. Charles is a great antiques expert to do this with as he delivers instant humour. Perhaps we can be the first antiques double act – funny and likeable but able to offer fascinating historical knowledge along the way.”
The event will be held at Hansons’ saleroom in Etwall, near Derby.
David launched a touring show at the start of 2019 which has won good reviews. He said: “The tour began as a talk but has developed into a comedy antique show. I’ve improved it along the way based on audience reactions.
“Charles and I get on really well and we’re at our best when we’re unscripted. We just need a bunch of people to bring lots of interesting things to Hansons to spark the creative process.
“The objects will also provide inspiration for antique quizzes, which people love. If you’re watching on Facebook Live you can enter the quizzes too. It will be Facebook verses the room. Audience participation and interaction is what it’s all about.
“January’s event will be experimental but if it works who knows where it may lead. Charles and I work well together and our partnership could develop into a show we’ll take around the country.”
How to join the fun
David Harper will be at Hansons Auctioneers, Heage Lane, Etwall, Derbyshire DE65 6LS, on Sunday, January 19. Doors open 2pm. The show starts at 3pm. The event is free and all are welcome. Remember to bring your antiques and collectables. No need to book a place, just come along. To find out more, email: [email protected].
To find out more about David’s tour dates, visit www.david-harper.co.uk. To enquire about booking Charles Hanson for a charity auction or event, visit www.charleshanson.com.
