NOTES BY “LORGNETTE.”

New Zealand Mail, Issue 1639, 29 July 1903, Page 28

NOTES BY “LORGNETTE.”

Mr P. R. Dix is this week presenting a programme of unusual excellence at the Royal, the result being that business ha® been on the "boom” grade. Mr Steve Ad son’s topical song caught on immensely. All the local alluvions were received with shrieks of laughter. Mr Adson promises a fresh batch of verses on Saturday evening. Mr Tod Calloway is one of the most popular members of Mr D.ix’s company, and has nightly to respond to the usual five encores- The eo'Hributions of the Williams Quartette and Miss Jessie Thorne are also acceptable items in a first class bill. Mr James Marian’s "turn” is very clever. The principal attraction of the second part of the program me is the special engagement of the Steel e-Payne Family of Musicians, who appeared in one of their drawing-room entertainments. The company occupy the stage some forty-five minutes. during which they give a really first cla.se performance. M : ss Maud Payne’s violin solos were enthusiasticallv received., her playing of the "Mocking Bird” being exceedingly clever. Miss Lizzip Payne gave a fine exhibition of sleigh-bell playing. Miss Agnes Rabidly contributed two coon songs and two recitations, all of which were well received. The hand-bell playing and part-singing of the family is all that could be desired. In short, the programme is one of the best yet submitted to Theatre Royal patrons. Fuller's Entertainers continue to pack the Choral Hall every evening with enthusiastic audiences. Mr Fred Bluett is the principal attraction in the present programme, his comic songs being in great; favour. During the present week Mr Bluett has had to respond to no fewer than six encores. Amongst his contributions to the programme are “Friend in Mother.” "What, am I to Do,” "Oat of Work.” "I Don’t Want to Carse any Trouble,” "Pel the rol-lol.” and imitations of popular performers. Mr Jack Steele is also a popular favourite, and has to respond to several encores nightly. Miss Annie Bllorsli© made a welcome re-f> Ppearance on Tuesday evening. On Friday evening the Elmore Sisters reappear, and on Saturday Mr Charles Waite, descriptive vocalist, and Mass Jessie Del] will make their first appearance at the Choral Hall. The Messrs Filler wTI open their campaign at the City Hall. Auckland, on Saturday evening. Idle company is a strong one. and includes ivfoTvisimn and Dnvri. D !- T?ow°, Jones Brothers PhDlms Smters, Will Watkins, M : s.s Clarrie McKesson, and John Fuller, sen. It is probable that Mr Allan Hamilton, who is at present managing Mr George Mussrrove’s Shakespearian Company, will shortly visit New Zealand with one of Mr Musgrove’s attractions. One feature of the work of the Williamson No. 2 Comic Opera Company is (say? the "Critic”) the fact that principals are not permitted to boss the sfv’.ge and mononolis» the fat bits as they do in the Royal Comic Op era Company. Tt is certain that young Fred Leslie would not be permitted to friric round as he does in the No. 1 company, whe r ‘e Lauri objects fiercely to anv poaching on his comic’ preserves. Leslie throws a. lot of fun info "The Bede of New York” and certainly was as big an element in the success, of Saturday night’s performance in Melb'nrnp Op leading cornelian. It seems ridiculous that the vanity of one performer shmild b» a. bar to another bringing out the best that’s in him, but on the stage that kind of egotism is rampart, and has often led to the suppression of an ar+ist or artiste whose work has promised to east that of the lead rather into the slmde. According to Emily Sol dene, ha if the theatrical shows in London are financed bv sheer id’ots, sometime*, titled, who <D not know any more about theatrical matter® than about any other form of business The De Wynnes have not as yet been engaged for New Zealand by Mr P. R. Dix. Mr J. Brown, who was ahead of the World’s Entertainers during their New Zealand tour, is now acting in the same capacity for the Westminster Glee and Concert Party. According to the Brisbane "Courier,” Mr Harry Rickards has got a "star” of the very front rank in Madame Marzella, who has just arrived from London, and j.s showing with Mr Rickards’s Brisbane company. Madame Marzella. has a 1 troupe of birds which seem to be educated up to a wonderful state of perfection. The performance is described as "the most marvellous exhibition Gf trained birds that the world has ever seen,” and this description is (says the "Courier”) not in the least extravagant. The curtain rises on a most gorgeous spectacle—a drawing-room practically turned into an aviary, with most brilliantly-formed perches, upon which are resting birds of magnificent plumage. Gorgeously-coloured parrots, such a*s may be seen m the Pacific Islands, hand-somely-plumed cockatoos, the pest of the Victorian and other farmers, jet-black crows, majestic fan tail pigeons, an eagle, and several other birds, altogether form one of the most beautiful scenes ever presented on a stage. In the centre of the stage stood three elaborate perches, and a s the hall lights were put out the perches were illuminated by electricity. As the perches revolved on a pivot, the birds standing on rolling balls or passing under arches gave it a magnificent effect. The scene, which was all to brief, drew prolonged applause. Madame, who wore a handsome costume of black, then stood at tlie rear of the stage with arms outstretched, and at a given signal "fantails” from all directions gathered upon her arms, shoulders, and head. The contrast presented by the white feathers and the black costume was most effective. A lone, handsomely-draped table

was set across the front of the stage, and upon this a couple of "cockies” waltzed to the music of the orchestra; another performed some very clever tumbling, while yet another a gorgeously-plumed parrot, rolled itself along the full length of the table. The "educated cookie” was then directed to spell the names of well-known persons by selecting certain letters from a row. The three names correctly spelt were "Mr Pliilp, Mr Leahy, and Mayor Corrie.” Much amusement was caused by the antics of the "coekie” when in doubt a« to which was the correct letter. Afler a moment’s hesitation he would run along to his mistress, and apparently whispering in her ear invariably returned and chose the proper letter. Another "coekie” was trained to clear the table after each performance. A most wonderful feat was the correctness with which a "’cockle” discovered hidden national flags when any particular flag was required by some member of the audience. This trick, which in a man would have been mystifying, was simply wonderful in the case of a bird. A beautiful little scene was then enacted in less time than it takes to record it. Two "cookies” appeared drawing a miniature gun-carriage, with a parrot up as driver. Several "cockies,” apparently the enemy, appeared in front. Immediately, the gunners placed the cannon in position, fired, and one of the enemy dropped to the ground. A hearse then appeared, and placing the dead "cookie” inside, the clever little birds drew it away at a truly funereal pace. The applause which followed this incident mav well be imagined. Then came a somersaulting "cookie,” a crow jumping through fiery hoops, two acrobatic parrots on the triple horizontal bar, a performing eagle, and finally a wonderful tricycle ride on wires. The whole performance was simply marvellous, and 1 cannot adequately be described. Madame Marzella scored a veritable triumph. Mr P. R. Dix is negotiating for the appearance of Madam© Marzella and her fooFhere'i troupe for a season at the Theatre Royal. Signorina Sassoli, Madame Melba’c gifted vonng protege, displayed great musical gifts at an early age, but her ar’brio" was first awakened, it is poetically suggested, by hearing a girl play tho harp. She was then about seven, and begged to be allowed to learn, trving to play even without teaching, and showing re na.rba.hl a natural aptitude. Entering the Conservatoire at Bologna (her native town) she soon went through her co urse, and then proceeded to Par’s, where she gained all the prizes and distinctions in her branch oi music. Mr Leslie Board, scenic artisf at the Theatre Royal, Sydney, has left by the P. and O. steamer Australia for a trip to Lo n don. Italy has a special version of the drama '‘lf I Were King.” When produced at Turin it scored a big success. Madame Melba is in residence at her town liou.se. Great Cumberland Place, until the end of the season. One iveht lately sbo had a lr>x at Mr George Musgrove’s theatre, the Shaftesbury, to see fh« light ouera "In Dahomey,” which is now drawing all London. _ Madame Melba was accompanied by Miss Violet Clarke, daughter of the Governor of Victoria. That young lady, after a short visit to England, returns to Paris, to resume her studies with Madame Marchasi. One of the musical conductors of Melbourne is said to be a thorough Sven pall, so far as his mesmeric power over some of his si ll cerg is concerned. One prim.a donna cl-'dares that she sings'well Or ill, just as the conductor r>leases. Tf the wielder of the baton is out of sorts or "livery” his mind reacts noon tho prim a donna, and, do what she will, she is not successful. Tf, on the other hand, the conductor is in good form, and in an amiable frame of mind, she sings admirably. Tt : s a veritable case of Svengali and T'rilbv in real life.—" Punch.” In last week’s Christchurch "Weekly Press” "Prospero” savs:—By the way. talking of Mr Rickards, it is understood that he does not intend sending any more vaudeville companies to New ZealandThis, T think, is a wise resolution, unless stronger attractions than tho last one comprised can be secured. Van dev: lie flourishes in New Zealand like unto the green bay tree, but the days of "anything is good enough for over there” have harmily passed away. Mr Georo-e Musgrove has engaged Mr James ’Welch, the well-known Engt'sh comedian, for an Austral:an tour. Few persona are aware what notable people our benevolent institutions shelter. For instance who would have thought that the husband of that brilliant actress Airs S'cott Shldons. was apatient in Beechworth (V’ct mi a) Hospital fo- Insane. Captain Thomas Chanter, R.N., lost his health during the visit of his wife, Airs Scott Ski dons, to Australia in 1881. He died on the 15th July at Beechworth. and his death recalls a time when Australia attracted the great ones of the stage. Captain Chanter, who was 71 years of age, was in his day a notable figure in English society. Mr J. C. Williamson’s "Are You a Mason ?” Company commenced an eight nights’ season at the Christchurch Royal last Monday night. News has been received of another wonder violinist and pupil of Sevcik, the teacher of the now famous Kubelik. This time it is a lady, Mdle. Marie Rentes, a young Bohemian girl of 18, who has already given concerts at Prague. Vienna, and Budapest, and is said to have excited great enthusiasm by her remarkable per f o rma n ce s. Mr W. H. Denny, who plays Bottom the Weaver in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” and Touchstone in " As you Like It,” with Mr George Musgrove’s Shakespearian Company in the early part of his career was of some repute as a dancer, taking part in many comic and Italian ballets at the Savoy until a severe accident compelled him to take to another branch of the profession. To an interviewer: “I remember my first London engagement was with Fred. Wright (father of Fred, and Huntley Wright, of Geo. Edwardes’s Company). I was engaged to play second low comedy and share the first with him, andrthe part lopened in was Banquo, in "Maebeth”; but the most curious engagement I ever had was with the late Marie Litton for the original company playing "Moths” in

England. My contract was for Lord 1 Juna in "Moths ’’ and Tony Lumpkin in "She Stoops to Conquer.” Kyrle Bellew was the Oorreze, and Charles Cartwright was the Prince Zouroff. Afterwards I Flayed Zouroff, and I think it is the part succeeded most in.”

Hill and Silvainy, the sensational trick cyclists, returned to Australia last Saturday. After a short season in the Commonwealth a tour of the United States will be commenced at the Orpheum Theatre, San Francisco. Mr J. C. Williamson has decided on having an immense bill for the opening of the new Her Majesty’s Theatre, Sydney, on Saturday evening. Three pieces will be staged, namely, ‘The Japanese Love Story,’ "Madame Butterfly,” the pathetic comedy "Kerry,’ and Mr J. B. Buck stone’s farce "Cousin Joe.” The Sydney "Morning Herald” of the 18th inst. says:—During the past three weeks an immense advance has been made towards the completion of Her Majesty’s Theatre. The handsome marble stairca.se in the centre of the original vestibule has been completed, the dress-circle has been covered with the rich-toned carpets manufactured for Mr J. C. Williamson in England, the stalls have been seated, and the elctrance of the new playhouse, which i® upholstered in soft tones of blue, nas begun to assert itself. Mr A. Dixon, father of Air George Dixon, who has been in Australia for a year or two as a scenic artist, has come from England to paint the act drop. The subiect i® from a classic picture by W. De Leftw.ch Dodge, entitled "The Eighth Olympiad,” the period referring to being 748 b.c. to 745 B-C-, and the subject is a dancing girl showing her jiaces and her graces to a select audience in the outer hall of a Grecian palace- A welcome feature in the new theatre is the "sighting.” The worst seats at the side command a view of nearly the whole stage—as far as the acting is concerned, or all of it. The inaugural ceremony on Saturday, when the Governor-General and State Governor will both be present, will include a new orchestral march composed by Mr Alfred Hill. A triple bill of tragedy, comedy, and farce Avill then be presented. The first piece will be Belasco’s "Madame Butterfly,” a play too long and important to be used for a mere lever de rideau, and on that account especially well suited for such an occasion as this. Af ’■ W:lliam»on saw th s Japanese lovestory by two different casts in New York, and was touched bv it each time. In London the pl°v drew crowd*, to f he Duke of York’s Theatre. Miss Ethel Knight Alollison, \vh > was coached in the character bv the author him self. _ and has played it successfully in America, will arrive here from New Zealand during next week to olav the part. After "Madame Butterfly.” Mr J- C. Williamson will make his reentree in the pathetic comedy "Kerry.” The actor-man-ager last played his famous part three years ago at the Princess Theatre, to close his long partnerslro with Mr George Musgrove. when <£loso net was realised for the dramatic charities. As then, so again, Miss Rose Atusgr-ve will be in the cast, and Miss Susie Van chan and other artistes have been entraced. The evening will close with J. B.'Buckstone’s "Cousin Joe.” in which ATr Williamson will resume a favourite character in the old farce. Aire-civ tlm management has received application*, from valued clients wh ch, if acceded to. would result in the entire dress circle and reserved stalls being secured before the plan was thrown open to the public. Mr Williamson ha® decided, however, to sell the seats at auot on without favour to anyone. He has also come to the generous determination to pay all the expenses of the evening himself, and to donate the entire gross proceeds to such char:tie® as may be decided on On the termination of the New Zealand tour of Air J. C. Williamson’s "Are You a Mason?” Company they will play a season in Alelbnurne. According to present arrangements the company return to Australia via the Cook Straits route, Air Williamson not caring to take any risks of th© steamer calling at Hobart and the probability of the combination having to go into quarantine. Miss Priscilla Verne, Aliss Da : sy Haroourt, and Miss Millie Herbert were all in the bill at the Melbourne Gaiety on the 6th July. The Julia Leney prize, which is controlled by the London Academy of Alusio, has been awarded to Miss Rita Jacobs, of Sydney. Hill a.nd Silvainy. the sensational trick cyclists recently at the Theatre Royal, are fully engaged up to the end of 1906. There is a possibdity of Rudinoff, who is at present the "star” turn at the Svdney Tivoli, placing a season with Mr P. R. Dix at the Royal. Tn commenting on the first appearance in Sydney of the Neill-Frawlev Drama,tie Company the "Town and Countrv Journal” says: —Mr Williamson’s new American Dramatic Combination, headed by Mr Daniel Frawley, opened a season at the Palace with a very fine production of Augustus Thomas’s famou*? play “Arizona.” The scene is laid partlv in a ranche in the Apache Indians’ country, partly in the military station of Fort Grant, among cowboys, Alexican greasers, U.S. cavalry, and 'sturdy settlers. Mr Frawley, as the hero of the piece, Lieutenant Denton, whose interference to save the honour of his colonel’s wife involves him in unmerited disgrace, gives a remarkably fine reading of a fine part, while Aliss Mary Van Buren, as Estrella Benham, the pretty wife of the colonel, who falls for a time under the baneful influence of Captain Hodgman (Mr Plimmer) looks charming, and plays with emotional, yet restrained vigour. The comedy element is well sustained by Air Jeffrey Williams and Miss Christine Hill, as Mr and Mrs Canbv. Estrella’s parents, while a decided hit was made by Misg Eva Denison as their madcap daughter. As the betrayed and deserted Lena , Miss Valarie E r nntmi played with sympathetic skill: Mr S. It. Stanford, as' the quick-tempered Vaquero, added to hiis popularity among Sydney playgoers, while a strong cast included Mr Harrington Reynolds, as Colonel Bonham, Mr Wallace Shaw, Mr J. R. Amary, Mies Blanche Douglas, and Mr Frank Crossley. The piece, it is needless to say, was admirably staged, dressed, and mounted, and should certainly enjoy a prosperous run

The J. F. Sheridan. Comedy Company frill inaugurate a New Zealand tour at the Opera House, Wellington, on the evening of Saturday, the Bth August. The company which Mr Sheridan brings with him. to New Zealand is said to be an exceedingly clever one. The first production will be the musical play, r ‘The Lady Slavey/' In commenting on the first performance of the piece at the Melbourne Bijou, on the Gch June, the “Age" savs: —The name of John F. Sheridan 'is dramatically synonymous with brightness, vivacity and fun, aud it is not surprising therefore that a large, highly expectant and ultimately del ghted audience filled the Bijou Theatre on Saturday night to witness the opening presentation in Melbourne of “The Lady Slavey/’ The play, is described on the bills as a “laughing musical carnival," and that is, perhaps, ns apt and concise a description as oould be given of it. It is. briefly, a combination of comic operaand vamety entertaminent, aiming at the continuity and coherence of the one, with the scope for diversity and novelty allowed in the other. “The plot introduces us to Major O’Neill, an impecunious scion of the Irish aristocracy, whoso creditors besiege him in the character of a chorus of bright-eyed maidens cm the lawn of his picturesque residence on the Thames, lie has three daughters, one of whom, to lessen the strain on the paternal purse, has assumed ihe character and duties of thq domestic “slavey.” An Amor.can millionaire’s appearance on the scene in search of a w-ie causes a flutter among the daughter's, and suggests a solution of the major's financial difficulties. The millionaire falls in love with the slavey, who refuses his hand because- she doubts his sincerity, until ho assumes the ioio of a moneyless man. There is, however, some trouble abuit a ling, brought an ufc by the designs of an adventuress, and the first act closes with misunderstanding and disappointment, musically expressed by the leading characters, assisted by the chorus. The second act consists of the millionaire’s reception, in which a bailiff masquerades as the man of money, in order that the ro*i! millionaire may win the hand of the lady of his choice. The reception is a scene of revelry, songs and Imllets, and finally of a wedding procession, in all of winch there is every latitude for the mast entertaining variety. “Tho piece is capitally staged. There is a strong and well balanced chorus and orchestra, and the music is bright and tuneful. The ballets constitute a feature of the performance. The girls are art’s! ically costumed, and the dancing is equal to any terpsichorean display recently aser. on the Melbourne stage. Mr Sheridan’s long association with petticoat characters caused a general impression that he would appear in the title role. But if there were any disappointment on that score it was more than compensated for by his appearance in a variety of other characters—first as one of the two bailiffs sent t-o distrain on the major’s furniture, then a.g a flunkey, and finally a.s a millionaire. Mr Sheridan is a horn comedian of remarkable versatility, and his humour and comicalities have the magic of spontaneity. The house was convulsed with me; riunnt while he held the stage, and as h- wa c seldom of it there was not a dull moment in the whole play. The Lady Slavey vas played by Miss Celia Mavis, the possessor of a good singing '‘oicc-, who invested the character with considerate sprightliness and charm, and who soc ted a distinct success with her songs/' Mr Im linden Hare, the cel ever English actor who visited New Zealand with Mr J. C. Williamson’s* “Sherlock Holmes” Compauy, has been engaged for another twelve months by' Mr Williamson. It is more than likely that Mr Hare will play prominent parts with tire Maud JeffriesJAlius Knight Company in “Resurrection/’ “The Darling of the Gods." “The Eternal City," and “Monsieur Beaucaira."

For years pas-t the subject of new theatres for Hobart and Launceston lux.% (says ” Jacques” in t:h.e> Launceston "Courier”) been discussed, but no definite step has been taken in the matter. Relative to Hobart, a new building, situated in a central locality, is certainly re quired. Tho present Theatre Iloyal is the oldest existing establishment cf its class in Australia, and has had its'day. Still people with money to invest consider theatre building a risky speculation. and unless Mr George Adams makes up his mind to supply "the long-felt want/' Hobart will probably bo compelled to put up with tire present temple of Thespis for some year's to come Han nee scon is provided with an Academy of Music which is the small for requirements whenever the city people decide that a company occupying it is worthy of extensive patronage. The Launceston theatre is, however, centrally situated, and would serve all requirements were certain additions and alterations effected. In Hobart and Launceston the rent charges, under existing circumstances are too high. Tlie Launceston Operatic Society wall produce "Lea Cloches do Oorneville” early next month. Miss Nellie Holden, a Sydney lady, has been engaged to play the part of Germaine. Judging from the amount of press notices arriving, it is quite on the cards that Wirth's Circus and Menagerie will shortly re-visit New Zealand with Pagel and the Howards as the star attractions. Recently the dramatio critics of the "Press,” ‘’'Evening Suxl,” and "Tribune,” New York, have had their names removed from the free list of the Syndicate’s Theatres, in consequence or adverse criticisms. The Westminster Glee and Concert Party is enquiring for Wellington dates early in October. Wirth's Circus and Menagerie will shortly commence a season in Sydney. In referring to the first appearance of the Westminster Glee and Concert Party at the Melbourne Town Hall, the "Bulletin” says:—The Westminster Abbey Glee Party’s first Melbourne concert came more than up to expectations. Really choice concerted singing, blending smoothly in a delioate vocal mosaic, is none too common in a country where choirs and ohora! t>ocieties are apt to impress by loudness rather than quality, Tho "Abbey” warblers, numbering ten only (five men and boys), supply «nou<arh s-ttud to satisfy a Town Hall

audience, and better sound, at that, than the ordinary choral bulk-harmony. Avoiding the showy on the one hand and the mean on the other, the choristers interpret in excellent stylo ancient and modern English glees and ballads, sound words sot to staunch music. Their words are distinct, their intonations true, and, in its own way, one could scarcely hear anything more pleasing than their “St. Michael’s Bells," the boys’ f'.esh voices accounting for the little tirkl.ng bells and the men attending to the booming of tho big ones. L tile Leonard Hubbard lilts Cowen’s “Swallows" in tones clear and fresh as those of a thrush. Director Branscombo made every word tell in a quaint old ballad. “The lowland Sea.” Mdme. Mario Ho..'ton put full contralto expression and spirit into various old-time ditties. Mr Coward, a big man in the “male alto” line, gave careful samples of his peculiarity; and everybody on the programme was recalled. including Dudley Causton, a “musical sketclicr."

In a letter to a Wellington friend, Mr

George Rir old says that lie intends leaving England for Australia during the latter part of July or early in August. Mr George Musg rove’s Shakespearian Company commence a season at the Theatre Royal. Sydnev, on Saturday evening with “A Midsummer Night’s Dream." Du ring the season “As Yon Like It/’ ’’Twelfth Night," and possibly “Borneo and Juliet” will be staged. Mr Albert Clark is touring representative of tho combination, which travels seventy strong. During the recent season of Mr J. C. Williamson’s Royal Coiiho Opera Company at tho Theatre R-o.val, Perth, one of the understudies had an unexpected “look in," and according to report scored a, decided success. Owing to , : mksp isilion Miss Florence Young was unable to appear as Allan-a-dale in “Robin Hood,” and her place was taken at short notice by Miss Nelli© Wilson. In referring to tho performance “Bohemian,” m the “Western Mail/’ says: —The production of “Robin Hood" provided an unlocked for opportunity for o’~e of the understudies, Miss Nellie Wilson, displaying her powers in the role of Allan-a-dale. Miss Florence Young was unable to appear owing to huskiness, and Miss Wilson gave a very creditable rendering of the part, obtaining encores for some of her songs. Especially was the performance the more commendable since Mss Wilson cmly received notice three hours before the play was to be commenced that she would be required to take the ral».

Mr Charles Glenny and Mr G. "W. Anson were at latest advices touring the English provinces with a company playing “A Lancashire Lass.” Mr J. C. Williamson’s Musical Comedy Company did excellent business at the Melbourne Princess with “The Belle of New York.” If is rumoured that Mr J. F. Sheridan is considering an offer for an extensive tour of South Africa. The Neill-Frawiey Dramatic Company is doing splendid business at tho Sydnev Palace. Mr Charles Leumane, who visited New Zealand several years ago. is in the cast of “The Serenade,” which was produced for the first time in Australia at the Princess’s Theatre, Melbourne, on the 18th July. It .is said that Mr Charle* Fanning, who is well known ill New Zealand, contemplates returning to Australia at Christmas. There are worse places than Australia for the vaudeville artiste. The Capetown season of the E-oyal Australian * Opera Company wag a huge success. During the last nights of the season “La Fill© du Tambour Major, ' “The Casino Girl/’ and “La Mascotte’* were produced. Australian managers are somewhat sensitive in regard to straight-out criticism. In Launceston not long ago (says “Jacques” in the Launceston “Courier”) Mr Charles Holloway, for instance, sent an intimation to the editor of “’The Examiner” that he would not admit a certain member of tire literary staff of the journal to th.B Academy of Music simply because the member in question had written what was palpably an honest, notice of one of the dramas produced during a season in the city. Of course, Mr Holloway and his dramas were religiously left alone by the leading Tasmanian newspapers for the rest of the season. The notice which aroused Mr Hollowav’s iro was severe only on the drama, * but what would a present-day manager say to a notice like the following. extracted from, an old copy of the “Edinburgh Weekly Journal” :—“ ‘Love in a Village' was again chosen last night; as the most suitable piece to exhibit Miss Paton and Mr Wood. The appearance of tho house afforded another proof of the total failure of the attempt to pro-fit by the debasement of public morality. Mr Wood Ims now become an object more of commiseration than contempt, and we shall only say, regarding liiin, that he experienced a similar reception as on the former evenings cf his appearance. If he possessed a particle of manly feeling h© will not continue Ins present pitiable and debased condition. On the occasion of Miss Patou’s first appearance, we deprecated in strong terms the bad taste and heartlessness which could induce the lady to sing by way of claptrap a lachrymose ballad called 'She Never Blamed Him, Never/ which describes the deportment of a heroine who had suffered from, the faithlessness of her lover. Those who best know Miss Paton are, we believe, oi opinion that there is in the composition of her mind a good deal of the imbecile —that she is, in short, a sort of inspired idiot, and her repetition of a song, m itself a worthless trifle, and which wag so reprobated on a former occasion, would seem to prove the judgment ooil*6ct ** It was confidently expected that the receipts for the Adelaide season of Mr George Musgrove’s Shakespearian Company would establish a record for the City of Churches. Mr Frank Henmngham, who made himself exceedingly popular in New Zealand with Mr William Anderson s No. 2 Company some months ago. is filling the position of touring representative of the Maggie Moore Company during their visit to New Zealand.

The Melbourne season of M r George Musgrove’s Comic Opera Company was in every way a success. On the loth. July they produced for the first time in Australia the Spanish oomic opera, in three acts, entitled “The Serenade, with the following cast : The Duke of Santa Cruz Mr Edward Laun Carlo Alvarado Mr C. J. Picklock Colombo Mr C. Leumane Gomez .....Mr Foster-Courtenay The Abbot Mr W. R, Shirley Romero .....Mr Lempriere PiingL Dolores, Duel ess of Santa Cruz Miss May Beatty Mother Superior Miss Bessie White Yvonne Madame Slaj>oifski The story of the play may be briefly condensed. The scene is laid in Spain, and tho characters include grandees cf Hie comic opera variety, brigands, operatic baritones and tenors, attractive and otherwise, broken down players and impression abio voting wiiieti. The Duke of Santa Cruz' is bringing to his ruined chateau his young bride Dolores, who has lost her heart to Alvarado, baritone in the Madrid Opera House, whose singing of “The Serenade” ka-s enchained her fancy. The Duka is bitterly suspicious, and though lie has been deceived into engaging the real Alvarado as her cook, ho looks up Colombo, an ancient light of the operatic stage, in the belief that he is the rival. When the brigands, under their chief, Romero, attack the castle and capture the Duke and Duchess for ransom, Colombo does liis enemy unwittingly a good turn by frightening off the superstitious assailants through appearing in the costume of the Demon King. In the second act the Duke is entrusting the skittish Dolores to the car© of the Mother Superior o£*i convent, with strict injunctions to watch over her flirting propensities. Yvonne comes hither disguised as a boy, attracts the notice of Dolores in tho convent garden, and exchanges dresses with her. Alvarado is in. the near vicinity. Tlio Duke unexpectedly returns, having been thrown out of his coach, and is greatly enraged at hearing all the nuns and monks singing “The Serenade/’ He seizes Yvonne, whom he mistakes for Dolores, and bears her away to his castle. Romero, the bandit chief, who is disguised as a monk in order to escape the police, is mistaken on his own admission for Alvarado, tli© singer of “The Serenade/’ In the final act the bandits are discovered bivouacking outside the Duke’s castle walls. Two persons captured by them are brought in, who turn out to I>© Alvarado and Dolores, who until they are ransomed agree to join the band, the chief, Romero, promising to protect them from the anger of the Duke. In the end the Duke is also captured, and as a condition by which he can save his life is compelled to divorc© Dolores and marry her to Alvarado, to give a sum. of money to Yvonne and her father Colombo, and to pardon Romero, the bandit chief, and his men, all of which he can do. being chief magistrate of Madrid, and therefore having supreme powers. Mias Fitzmaurice Gill, having concluded he r New Zealand tour, has returned to Sydney. After a short holiday Miss Gill will commence a tour of the Commonwealth. Mr J. C. Williamson has secured the Australasian rights of the musical comedy “The School Girl,” by Messrs Henry Hamilton and Paul Potter. The lyrics are by Charles H. Taylor, and the musjo by Mr Leslie Stuart. Mr Gus. Neville, who was a leading member of tb Q Fitem.au.rico Gill Dramatic Company during its New Zealand tour, is at present enjoying a fortnights holiday in Wellington. He rejoins Miss Gill’s company in Sydney. Mr J. C. Williamson at present holds the Australasian rights of six musical comedies which have not yet been seen in Australia. . Montgomery's Entertainers are still touring Tasmania. Business is reported as first-class. Mr Had don Chambers’s new play, which is shortly to be produced by Mr Arthur Bourcnier, is entitled The Golden Silence.’’ ...... “The Lady Slavey/' which is to be the initial performance of the Sheridan Comedy Company at the Opera House, Wellington, on Saturday evening, the Bth August, is by Mr George Dance the music being by Messrs John Crook, _F. W. Weierter, and others. The following is the full cast in the piece: Phyllis Miss Celia Mavis Flo Hoiieydew Miss Minnie Hooper Mail die Miss Heba Barlow Beatrice Miss Katie Courtriee... Major O’Neill Mr J. R. Needham Vincent A. Evelyn ...Mr Thomas Curran Lord Lavender Mr Sydney C. Carden Captain Fitzmaurice Mr Fred Wentworth Chin Foo McCarthy . Miss Florne Drayton Madame Dufane Miss Stella Tate Pontet Miss Rose Massey Louise " ....Miss Bertha Bursch Gwennie Craston Miss Edna Leighto-n Vivienne Ainsley Miss May Bradley Dollie Craston Miss Muriel Williams Jusie Dumont Miss Lizzie Walsh Marie Edlinoourt Miss Violet Hooper and , . Pier-Potts-Point Morgan (a millionaire), Roberts (a bailiff), Jeems (a flunkey) Mr John F. Sheridan Mr Arthur Blanchard, who was doing tho advance work of the Fitzmaurice Gill Dramatic Company, returned to Christchurch last week, where he intends resting for a few weeks. A maid servant had been sent by her mistress to see “Dante” at Drury Lane. When she returned she was asked how she enjoyed herself. “Oh, mum/’ she said, “it was so 'err'd to see such a lot of nice gentlemen all ’ot in ’ell!’’ This recalls the story of Si T Henry Irving s ze*alotL9 stag© manager in olden days wiio, during the rehearsals of “Faust," reproved his supers for being too lighthearted in Hades. * gentlemen,” he thundered, “kindly renumber that you are not on Hampstead Heath, but _ jjJ It is stated that Miss Marie Lloyd, the well-known vaudeville artiste, has been engaged by Mr Arthus Collin s for a big part in* the new drams* which is to be produced at Drury Lane Theatre, London, in the autumn. The Sydney season of Mr George Musgrove’s Comedy Company has been an immense success.

The music of “The Serenade,” which was produced for the first time in Australia at the Princess Theatre, Melbourne, on the 18th July, is said to be very fine, some of the choruses being quite remarkable and as good as any thing yet heard in Australia. The principals have also some gcod numbers. Miss Beatty’s principal solo, “The Serenade, being the song which gives the opera its title. After the New Zealand tour of Mr George Musgrove’s Comte Opera Company a season will be played in Sydney, after which the combination will visit Western Australia. The Harvey Boys, the boxing comedians who toured New Zealand some time ago under the Dix banner, have returned to London. . When the last mail loft “A Chinese Honeymoon” was being produced twioe daily in Boston and Chicago. Mr Dan Barry and his company were at latest resting in Melbourne. During the recent season of Mr J. 0. Williamson's Royal Comio Opera Go mupa ii j- at Perth, Mr John Thor ley, a member of tho combination, had an experience that does not often fall to the lot of the average pro. Whilst Mr and Mrs Thorley were in their bedroom a.t the Melbourne Hotel a missile crashed through their window. Mr Thorley pulled up the window blind to see what was the matter, when a bullet whistled past him, within an inch of his face, and right through the closed door. Th® actor was quite satisfied that it was no place for him and hurried down stair* and informea the landlord. An examination showed that there were two bullet holes in the lower portion of the glass. After the Thorleys had dined they returned to their bedroom to dress for the theatre. They bad not been in the room a minute before another bullet crashed through the window and went very close bo M_rs Thorley. Neither Mr nor Mi's Thorley heard any reports. A posse cf policemen guarded the house that night, but there were no more bullets flying round. The following morur ing M r D. Gutherie, a detective, made f minute examination of the room came to the conclusion, judging from the size of th© holes, that the snots had been fired from an air or a pea rifle. Ag to who fired the mysterious bullets still remains unsolved. Mr G. H. Snazelle is one of the most famous story-tellers in the dramatic profession. He tells the following good story against himself. While touring in New South Wales he and a friend, who was a local magistrate, had stayed atfc the club until the early hours of th® morning. Before parting they sans “Auld Lang Syne” in th© street. Now, singing in that particular township w-asi against the law, and when a policeman appeared on the scene the inagietrat® took to his heels, while Snazelle fell into the arms of the man in blue, and had to find bail for Ids appearance in th* court later on. “Judge of my surprise.” said he, “when on being called upon to answer a charge of disorderly conduct, I espied upon the bench my companion of the carouse, who was regarding me with a very stern eyq. “Very disgraceful conduct,” be remarked, when the active and. very intelligent officer had given his evidence. Aud he imposed a penalty o£ two pounds. “But,” began Snazelle. quite prepared to argue the point and to urge that what was fit punishment for the prisoner at the bar was fit also for the representative of justice on the bench. “Stand down, sir, I won’t hear a word,” was all he got for his pains, and he was hurried from the court. “Do you. want to know,” added the storyteller, “what I said to that magistrate when next I met him? Well, it wasn’t much. 'Couldn’t help it, old fellow I’ h© said; 'had my character and position to keep up, don’t you know.’ He did penanoa by standing a supper for a dozen, and, you bet, the laugh was not with me/’ Davidson and wife, leading actor and actress, having gone into liquidation in the Divorce Court, the New York “American" interviews both. Davidson says: “Actresses are failures ag wives. Give me a dish of boiled beef of herbs where there ig good housewifery. I never want another wife with the artistio temperament. An actor leaves th® stage behind him, but an actress never does. Her emotional scenes at home ar» the best in her repertoire. Actresses are tho least neat of women. They are addicted to wrapper's. They are extravagant. The very temperament that makes a woman a success as an actress makes a failure as a wife. She has none of the rustic charming aloofness which is on® of the charms of another woman. When, a man protests against her doings it is neighbours, friends, relatives, tears, acting. hysterics. She is too strenuous for an ordinary man, who craves serenity.” Now hear" Mrs Davidson. She says: “Actors, as a rule, are impossible a* husbands. They ar© peacocks. They ar© the most conceited men on earth. No one enjoys living with a man who talks, thinks, dreams, and eYeu talks in his sleep, constantly of himself. He always wonts tho centre of the stage. Ycu will find the actor well dressed, with a flower in his buttonhole, when h© and hi* family have had nothing to eat for twodays. Mr Davidson would buy three or four suits at a time, and wouldn't giv® me one gown. It is always a feast or a> famine with actors. They have all the sensitiveness and nerves and whims oc women, without a woman’s great tenderness of heart. An actor has learned: from his parts, if not from his nature, the art of refined cruelty. Actors &r® fickle. Th© exceptions are so rare tnafe I don't know any.” SWEET NELL GF OLD DRURY. When Pepys wrote hig dairy down In quaint old phrase and ill-spelled noun, Rochester and Kiliigrew, With all their reckless, royst'rmg crew. Wenched, wined and wanton d it in town, “Old Rowley” then wore England's Frail Castlemaine had won renown, And Nell the world to Drury drew When Pepys wrote. Gay profligacy mocked the frown Of Virtue in “fanatique” brown, And made thosoold days vicious. True; But is there now much better brewP Our vice goes cloak’d; it wore no gown When Pepys wrote l —S. Elliott Napier, in the “Bulletin.'*