Milt Britton's illustrious career in vaudeville began around 1914, marking the commencement of a lifelong journey in the world of entertainment. It was in 1917 that he formed a dynamic double act with Frank Wetzel, who would later adopt the stage name Frank Britton, uniting their talents as a trombone and cornet duo.
Britton's creative genius and innovative spirit led to the conception of the "slapstick" orchestra, a revolutionary approach that would soon capture the hearts and imaginations of audiences across Europe and the United States. Dubbed "America's Craziest Orchestra" and "The Mad Musical Maniacs," Britton's Orchestra became synonymous with unbridled energy, comedic flair, and a unique brand of musical mayhem.
The band's signature routine, which often began with a conventional musical selection, would suddenly take a turn for the absurd, as a musician would stumble and inadvertently knock an instrument out of another's hand, triggering a cascade of slapstick comedy. This ingenious formula proved to be a recipe for success, as Britton's Orchestra went on to perform on Broadway, embark on tours of South America and the United States, and make memorable appearances in both short films and feature-length movies.
One of the most notable examples of their work can be seen in the 1933 film Moonlight and Pretzels, where the band's antics are showcased during the title song, leaving audiences in stitches and cementing their status as one of the most beloved and entertaining musical acts of their time.
