Stanleigh Malotte
Charles Stanleigh Malotte (September 5, 1901–February 1973), who was known as Stanleigh Malotte, was the house organist for Alabama Theatre from 1936 to 1955.
Biography
Stanleigh Malotte came from a musical family; his father, mother, and brother were also musicians. Malotte first became a theatre organist for Sid Grauman on the west coast, but later got a job with the Paramount/Publix chain and wound up working for Francis Falkenburg at the Olympia Theatre in Miami, Florida, where he stayed for 18 months. Falkenburg brought in Malotte from Florida shortly after Falkenburg transferred to the Alabama Theatre. Malotte's first performance at the Alabama was on May 27, 1937.
During his time at the Alabama, Malotte was well known for rewriting the lyrics of popular songs of the time with lyrics pertaining to current events, from the local to national levels. He also often selected music to be performed based on the movie being shown. He was also known to drink quite a bit, although some maintain this actually made him a better entertainer. Malotte also played the organ for WAPI-AM from their studios in the Protective Life Building.
After leaving the Alabama Theatre, Malotte was associated with the Hammond Organ Company. He also wrote material for television and commercials. Malotte later returned to his birthplace of Philadelphia. He died of a heart attack in New York City.
Tribute
On October 19, 1991, a special tribute was held in honor of Stanleigh Malotte. This was the official presentation of his star in the Alabama Walk of Fame. His son, Stanleigh Malotte, Jr. was scheduled to attend, but was unable to due to his ill health.
Trivia
- When Birmingham Landmarks released an 11 minute tape containing the only known recording of Malotte as a fundraiser in the early 1990's, they misspelled his name as "Stanley Malotte" on the insert.
References
- Whitmire, Cecil. "The legendary Stanley Malotte" liner notes.
- Script for the Stanleigh Malotte Tribute (October 19, 1991).
- "Big Bertha trivia." (July 2001). Alabama Wind Lines (Alabama Chapter of ATOS).