The Secret Policeman's Ball

Amnesty decided not to present a benefit show in 1978 in order to consider how to make better use of the performing talent so favourably disposed to assist it in raising funds. Peter Luff left Amnesty in 1978 and the organisation's new fund-raising officer, Peter Walker, was deputed to work with Lewis on reconfiguring the show to raise more money and greater awareness of Amnesty. Lewis proposed to Cleese that in addition to the comedy performances the show should feature some contemporary rock musicians. Cleese delegated this responsibility to Lewis who recruited Who guitarist Pete Townshend to perform, as well as New Wave singer-songwriter Tom Robinson.

Full Cast of The Secret Policeman's Ball

John Cleese as Himself - Various Roles

John Cleese

as Himself - Various Roles

John Marwood Cleese (born 27 October 1939) is an English actor, comedian, writer and film producer. He achieved succe...

Pete Townshend as Himself

Pete Townshend

as Himself

Peter Dennis Blandford "Pete" Townshend (born 19 May 1945) is an English rock guitarist, vocalist, songwriter and aut...

Michael Palin as Various Roles

Michael Palin

as Various Roles

Michael Edward Palin, CBE FRGS (born 5 May 1943) is an English comedian, actor, writer and television presenter best ...


Crew of The Secret Policeman's Ball

Discover the backstage crew of The Secret Policeman's Ball →