BY ROYAL COMMAND.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXIX, Issue 11872, 25 January 1902, Page 5 (Supplement)

BY ROYAL COMMAND.

DAN LENO PERFORMS BEFORE THE . KING. , . That there has been more than sufficient reason for the general feeling of depression pervading theatrical circles of late everybody is aware. But even the longest lane must have a turning, and it would almost seem that the particular lane along which it is the business of managers and actors and actresses to travel has at length succumbed to the inevitable law of change. Few things could, indeed, ® bring about so desirable a result more speedily than a renewed display of interest on the part of Royalty in the drama. And that is precisely what, to the gratification of all concerned, has occurred quite recently. To say that the command which, on Saturday, November 23, reached the members of the Vaudeville company to perform at Sandringham on the following Tuesday evening came as a surprise is to speak in terms of the utmost moderation. For a brief interval something like consternation, occasioned by the thought of the many difficulties in the way of a satisfactory representation, reigned supreme. New scenery had to be provided, costumes overhauled, properties prepared. But the opportunity was one not to be lost, even at the cost of laborious days and sleepless nights. Happily, success was destined to crown the work, and it is pleasant to record that the performance given before their Majesties the King and Queen, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and a distinguished company, in the great ballroom at Sandringham, went without a hitch from beginning to end, and was accorded a reception which, in point of cordiality and enthusiasm, more than rivalled any to be met with at the most popular of our London theatres on the occasion of a pronounced first-night success. The programme included " Scrooge," Charles Dickens' " Christmas Carol," a play in one act, adapted for the stage by J. C. Buckstone, and " Papa's Wife," a musical duologue, in one act, by Seymour Hicks and F. C. Phillips; music by Ellaline Terriss. In between Dan Leno sang a couple of his inimitable songs. Mr. Seymour Hicks, seen at the Vaudeville, spoke very warmly of the reception he and Miss Terriss and their company received at Sandringham. " Both ' Scrooge' and 'Papa's Wife'- went splendidly," said Mr. Hicks. "We were personally congratulated, and altogether you can take it that it was the proudest day in the lives of both my wife and myself." Miss Terriss was presented by the King with a diamond brooch in the form of the letters "E.R.," and Mr. Hicks with a pair of diamond sleeve-links.

As much of London as could crowd into the London Pavilion was present to welcome Mr. Dan Leno after his return..from performing before the Royal family at Sandringham. When Mr. Leno appeared on the stage the house naturally rose at him, and it was obvious that it would not be satisfied until Mr. Leno gave some account of his experiences. Mr. Leno recognised the inevitable, and gained silence by raising an eyebrow. He said : — " Ladies and Gentlemen, — have had the great honour of appearing before His Majesty the King and our Gracious Lady the Queen at Sandringham. "I must admit that I was a little timid at first, but the King was so nice that I soon got over that. What pleased me very much" was that His Majesty presented me with a very handsome diamond pin." Here Mr. Leno put his hands into his various pockets, and then showing his empty palms proceeded, after much laughter : —

"What pleased me more was that the King and Queen seemed to appreciate my little bit of nonsense. What pleased me most was that both their Majesties, I am glad to be able to say, were looking in the best of health."

The audience loudly cheered, and Mr. Leno then went on with his ordinary " uusiness." At the conclusion, of his performance Mr. Leno held a reception in his dressing-room, and assured his friends that his visit to Sandringham had been the happiest time in is life. "It was food to me," he said, "to sea them laughing so heartily." What did I sing? I gave them 'Buying a House,' ' The Huntsman,' and then 'The Minstrel Boy,' as well as two little tilings I introduced which I thought they might like. I never had a better audience. There were about 500 present altogther, besides their Majesties, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and the other members of the Royal family. They gave me just a little encouragement when I went on"— Leno clapped his hands together lightly—" but that was all I could expect, of course. They began to laugh almost immediately, and soon the whole audience was holding its sides. They appreciated everything, and enjoyed one "song as much as another. Then when it was over I was presented as their Majesties left the gallery. The King and Queen and Prince of Wales shook hands with me, and said how much they had enjoyed themselves and how pleased they were. His Majesty does not shake hands with the tips of his fingers, but gives you a good, hearty English grip. Then he handed me this" diamond pin, bearing the initial 'E' and the Royal crown above it."