NOTES BY "LORGNETTE.”

New Zealand Mail, Issue 1797, 15 August 1906, Page 27

NOTES BY "LORGNETTE.”

Mr William Anderson is a believer in what may be called "local talent.” His faith, has not been misplaced so far as Ambrose Pratt and A. S. Joseph, the joint authors of the Australian drama ■Thunderbolt,” are concerned. This piece was produced for the first time in .Wellington at the Opera House on Saturday night. The popular parts of the house were crowded. In its class it compares very favourably with many of the imported dramas. “Thunderbolt” is capably constructed on conventional lines, contains some incidents of a dramatic nature, plenty that are melodramatic, there are one or two very fairly effective “curtains.” The continuity of plot is well maintained. It is, however, apart from these attributes that one discerns the chief merits of the play. These are undoubtedly it© local colour and atmosphere. Australian bush-life is very faithfully reflected in the tvpe of characters introduced. Particularly true to back-blocks traditions is the “language” allotted to one or two of the character©. Some of the expressions used are very rough and ready. Every spade is called a spade. To further invest the production with local colour, Mr Anderson has had it appropriately mounted and staged. The scenery affords typical Slimpses of the great Australian bush istricts, with their tall blue-gums and other native trees, their rocky glades and lonely gullies. Even the feathered tribes of the back-blocks have their place in the general scheme. It is not the first time the bushranger who “sticks up" coaches and makes his living by robbery has been made the hero of stage romance. “Thunderbolt” does this (a© history says he did in real life) ■with complete sang-froid. The authors make him boast that he only robe rich men (like the oomic opera brigand), and indulgent audiences overlook the obvious in consenting to forget the fact that to rob the poor would be lees profitable. In any case Saturday night's audience showed the deepest satisfaction as Thunderbolt's crimes multiplied, shrieked with laughteT at the forest of hands that his sudden arrival amongst a collection of victims caused to shoot up into the air. It was likewise gratifying to those in front that when the drama ended no punishment had been meted out to this bushranging rascal. In and out amongst the episodes in which “ Thunderbolt’' himself was concerned there meandered an amusing scheme of comedy, so that patrons had no cause to feel the need of variety. Mr Harry W. Diver was not well suited in the title role JTi« impersonation was wanting in -robustness, some degrees too gloomy, and too theatrically fierce at times. He displayed also a great <Teal of hesitation in

the delivery of his lines. Mr Max Clifton gave the best character interpretation of the evening as the English jackaroo, the Hon. Algernon Chetwynd. This was a “dude” study of much merit and genuinely humorous. Mr Frank Crossley as Jack Mason, a wild young sprig whose failings bring trouble upon his family, was good, especially in his drunken scene in the third act. Mr Walter Dalgleish as Geoffrey Marrow, a somewhat tame villain, judged on a melodramatic standard, filled the part capably. Mr Crosbie Ward was an acceptable juvenile lead. Mr Stirling YVhyte’s Alexander Mason was a little colourless. Mr Harry Douglas was excellent as an Irish pubHcan. Mr Frank Reis, as an Irish policeman, caused laughter. Miss Helene Burdette was the heroine, Maud Mason, acting with charm of manner, and assuming a male role with considerable ability. Miss Masio Maxwell, as Sunday McGuire, played remarkably well. The part of Mary, a gin, was capitally pourtrayed. Several minor parts were satisfactorily filled. The piece was enthusiastically received.

It is stated that Mr B. Keith, the American entrepreneur unsuccessfully offered Miss Vesta Tilley JISOO a Week.

* * * Mr J. C. Williamson’s Dramatic Company, of which Miss Tittell Brune is the star, is at present playing a four-weeks season at Her Majesty's Theatre. Sydney. At the close of the season the combination will sail for Wellington by the Warrimoo, where a New Zealand tour commences at the Opera House on the sth September. The repertoire for the tomwill include several plays entirely new to New Zealand, among them being “Leah. Kleschna,” “Merely Mary Ann,” and “Dorothy Vernon of Hadden Hall.’’ It is not known yet what play lias been selected by the management, but it will probably be “Leah Kicsehna” or thy Vernon of Hadden. Hall. ‘Leah Kleschna” is a strong story of modern life in Paris, and when first produced at tfio Manhattan Theatre, New York, and the New Theatre, London, establishing the sensational ruii3 which entitle it to be ranked as one of the greatest Anglo-Am-erican successes of recent times, its success in Sydney and Melbourne was also marked, for during the seven weeks of its run in the former, and the six weeks' season in the latter city, it attracted crowded and enthusiastic audiences. The story of the play briefly is as follows: Leah Kleschna is the young and charming daughter of a professional burglar, living in Paris. The father is presented as a strong and resolute character, who regards his means of livelihood as only another form of the popular game of “doing your neighbour,” and has trained his daughter as his accomplice in thieving. Into the girl's life comes M. Silvaine, .a member of the Chamber of Deputies—a philanthropist, with what are regarded as eccentric ideas in the reformation of criminals. Leah has fallen in love with him. It happens that M. Ehlvaine’s house has been selected for robbery by Kleschna, the booty being the family jewels. Leah, who is unaware of the identity of the owner, is sont by her father to the house at night to steal the jewels. The robbery is effected in the darkened room, but just as she is leaving with the spoils M. biivaine appeai-3 on the scene. The light is turned on, revealing to the astonished and horrified gaze of Leah the man she worships—the m,an above all others from whom she would like to hide the shame of her mode of life. But Silvaine talks to her, touches her better feelings, and the despairing girl is soon resolved into a repentant sinner, inspired by the nobility of the man she loves, to start out on a new life. She goes back to her old home in Austria, where later she is discovered as a labourer in the vegetable gardens, by her benefactor, who takes her away to share his hearth and home.

# # # The Musical Johnsons ane at present filling an engagement at tho London Alhambra. . e * *

Mr Charles Froliman has arranged with Mr Charles McLellan, the author of the “Belie of New York” and “Leah Kleschna.’’ to write for him. the book and lyrics, and Ivan Caryil to write the music of a new musical play, called “Nelly Neil, to be ready next winter. Mr Froliam is to have both the English and American rights.

O £ & The Marvellous Uessemg are still touring the Moss-Stoll Circuit, and were appearing at the Palace Theatre, Leicester, on the 14th June. * * *

Mr George Fuller Golden, who toured New Zealand some time ago under the management of Mr Harry Rickards, and whose health has been poor for some time past, was given a rousing benefit at the New York Theatre on Sunday evening, the 17th June, The house was (says the “New York Dramatic Mirror”) crowded and standing room was at a premium long before eight o’clock, when the long programme began. William Alorris was m charge of tho stage and Lee Harrison used some original quips as the official announcer. Maurice Levi and the orchestra from Joe Weber’s Music Hall furnished the music. Those who appeared were Henry E. Dixey, Lafavette, Genaro and Bailey, George M. Cohan, Truly Shatrtick, Eddie Leonard. James J. Morton, Tom Lewis, and Sam J. Ryan, Andrew Mack, the Six Proveanies, Blanche Ring, Charles J. Ross and Mabel Fenton, Clarice Vance, De Wolf Hopper, Peter F. Dailey and company, and the Empire City Quartette. Mr Golden was summoned just before the end of the programme, and John P. Hill presented him, on behalf of the White Rats, of which the beneficiary was formerly the president, with a large floral piece and a check for 500 dollars. Mi- Golden was overcome for a few minutes, but finally recovered himself and thanked his friends in a neat speech in which be said he would devote his time to regaining his health with a view to returning to the stage. The receipts, including premiums paid for boxes and seats, amounted to 4,000 dollars.

The Delevines were appearing at the Olympia Liverpool on the 16th June.

On June 19 the Board of Aldermen of New York City unanimously passed a radical ordinance against an indiscriminate display of posters and advertisements, the order being introduced by Borough President Coler; Ten to one hundred dollars’ fines, or imprisonment for ten days, or both, are the penalties provided for a violation of the rule. The Coler resolution rescinded the ordinance of October 17, 1995, passed through the efforts of Aiderman Sullivan. The new law reads: —"No person shall put, paste, print, nail, maintain or display upon any billboard, fence, building, frame or structure and in any manner expose to public view as an advertisement of any show, play or performance any indecent print or any picture or cut tending to represent the doing of any criminal act . . . tending to deprave the morals of individuals or shocking to tlio sense of decency, or tending to incite the mind to acts of immorality or crime, or to familiarise and accustom the minds of young persons with the same.”

The Sivronis were touring the Barrasford Circuit when the last mail left London.

Benjamin Howard, an actor, committed suicide in Riverside park, New York, on tiie ißth June. Beside the body was a vial containing poison. Six years ago, while touring in the west, he became infatuated with a Boston girl, who later married a resident of Milwaukee. Howard, it is said, then attempted to shoot himself in Denver, but a friend prevented him.

The scenery for the production of “Leah Kieselma,” which was painted by Mr W. R. Coleman, is said to be some of that clever artist s best work.

Tom Wootwell and the Warsaw Brothels were in the bill at the Empire Palace Edinburgh, on the 16th June.

Miss Dorothy Drew who toured the Fuller Circuit some time back was appearing at the Alhambra, London, on the 2nd July. * * *

A new dramatic version of Sir Gilbeit Parker’s story, “The Right of Way/’ is to be produced in London shortly, with Mr Arthur hourchior as the central figure, Charley Steele, Mr Kyrle Bellow is likely to play the chief part in America.

A- *• Czerny’s Newcastle season was not * great financial success. * * *

Mr Fred Bluett is scoring big at the Melbourne Opera House with a song entitled “Bachelors.”

The Charles Holloway Dramatic Company last Saturday evening Commenced a four weeks season at the Sydney Criterion, under the management of Mr Edwin Geach, when Miss Jennie Lee’a version of “Bleak House,” was produced, with new scenery and costumes of the period, and with Miss Betrice Holloway in the all-important character of “Jo.” Mr Holloway will direct the stage, and the cast include, Inspector Buckett, Mr Jno. Hesford; Mr Tuikinghorn, Mr Robert Inman; Sir Leicester Dedlock, Bart.. Mr Godfrey Cass; Snagsby, Mr Jefferson Tate; Chatband, Mr J. P. O’Neil; Lady Dedlock, Miss Rosa Conroy; and Hortense, Miss Ethel Appleton.

Mr J. C. Wiliamson’s Dramatic Company, which is headed by Miss Tittell Brune, is at present doing fine business at His Majesty’s Theatre, Sydney, the first production being “Dorothy Vernon of Haddon Hall,” -which was staged to a packed house on the 4th inst. The following is the full cast of characters and sjmopsis of scenery: —Sir John Manners, ■Mr Thomas Kingston; Sir Malcolm Vernon, Mr Mervale; Sir George Vernon, Air J. B. Atholwood; Perkin, Mr Maurice Dudley; Earl Rutland, Mr T. W. Lloyd; Lord Burleigh, Mr Vivian Edwards; Sir William St. Loe, Mr Harry Sweeney; Will Dawson, Mr Stanley Walpole; Alark, Mr Lawrence Hardinge; Gregory, Mr Frank Harcourt; Elizabeth Tudor, Aliss Susie Vaughan; Alary Stuart, Miss Nellie Fergusson; Lady Vernon Aliss Clara Stevenson; Jenny Faxton, Miss Nellie Calvin; Bess, Miss Ruby Marshall; Dorothy Vernon, Aliss Tittell Brune. Synopsis of Scenes: Act I.—The Terrace, Haddon Hall; Act 2.—Dorothy’s Room, Haddon Hall; Act 3.—The YVatch-Room, Rutland Castle; Act 4.—The BanquetRoom, Haddon Hall.

Sid Doody and Addie Wright were appearing at the Paragan Music Hall, London, on the Bth June.

** * . Aliss Tittell Brune is said to give a remarkably fine portrayal of the character of Leah in the drama “Leah Kleschna.”

Mr Wiliam Collier and the artists he brought with him from America enjoyed a great send-off at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Sydney, on Friday evening the 3rd inst., when they made their farewell appearance prior to their departure for Vancouver and San Francisco by the Miowera on Monday 6th. A special programme was arranged for the occasion, and the crowded house thus saw the hilarious second act of “On the Quiet,” as well as the whole of “The Dictator.” Mr Collier’s finished method and the telling quality of his humour always employed with unstrained art, again delighted Sydney playgoers, and reminded them of the loss involved by the departure of an actor so distinguished. At the end of the evening there was a scene of enthusiasm. The curtain was raised several times upon tho entire company, and half a dozen times upon the star alone, who was presented -with flowers and various more or less absurd toys. Finally, as the applause continued, Air Collier remarked: “X really don’t want to attempt a speech I never could make one—and you’ll know it in a moment! (Laughter.) As you are aware, we passed through earthquake, fire, and water in the great disaster in San Francisco, where we arrived just in time to lose all we had; and then, after all that, we had to pass through Melbourne to get to Sydney, which was almost as bad! (Laughter) Joking apart,

I consider my engagement in this city one of the pleasantest of my life, and taking leave of you all I assure you I carry away the happiest recollections. (Loud cheers.)

Mr Willie Edouin, released from his theatrical engagements, contemplates an early appearance at music-halls in a monologue. This is another indication of the importance which “tho halls’’ have acquired in the oyes of the profession of late years, for since Mr Edouin, after his experiences in Australia and as a member of Miss Eydia Thompson’s stock company in America, appeared in London under the management of that well-known actress in 1872, he has devoted himself to dramatic and musical comedy. He has played in London General des ifs in “The Little fichus," Hoggenlieimer in “The Girl from Kays,” Tweedlepunch in “Floradora,” and other characters.

Morris and Wilson, the clever acrobats round here with Anderson’s pantomime, are now appearing at the Melbounrne Gaiey.

The part which Mr Julius Knight is to play in the coming Shakespearian season at Her Majesty's Theatre, London, is that of King of Bohemia, Polixones, in “The Winter’s Tale.” Air Knight has been engaged for this production by Mr Beorbohm Tree. The occasion will be particularly eventful by reason of the presence of Miss Ellen Terry in the cast. “The Winter’s Tale” will not be produced until October, and meanwhile Mr Tree will tour the provinces next month, visiting Blackpool, Newcastle, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dublin. Alancliester, Liverpool, and Birmingham, where he will finish in October.

Mr Frank Yorke continues a big favourite at tho Melbourne Gaiety. # * *

Miss Beatrice Izett. formerly of Sydney, and now a resident of Los Angeles, (says the “Daily Telegraph’’) writes in a letter to a Sydney friend some interesting impressions of a trip she took to Venice, near Los Angeles, that she might see Madame Sara Bernhardt, who played there during her recent American tour: —- “We were walking slowly along the pier, when there, sure enough, was The divine Sara,' loudly dressed, heavily painted, powdered, and perfumed; her hair, in colour a bright gold; her liat, large and wide-brimmed, surmounted with three ''terrific red ostrich feathers; while a long silk coat, trailing on the ground, completed the picture. After seeing her in 'Camille’ in the evening, I felt quite ashamed of my cool criticism of her street appearance. In 'Camille’ she looked not a day over 28. Her voice is silvery; her laughter rang liquid, clear as a beLl. She has a voice that not only speaks, but thinks. In the death scene, when Armand comes in behind her and the nurse gradually prepares her for his presence, she turns, flinging her arms about like an excited overwrought child; her cries are thin, broken, voiceless, and uncontrollable—it is as a child that she flies into her arms. It is no use—my pen cannot paint her; her art is so subtle, so clear, so exquisitely delicate in finish."

Mr Walter Rivers is acting as stage manager of Mr J. C. Rain’s Launceston Theatre.

Messrs J. and C. Macmalion have secured some new and particularly strong plays, and have selected a powerful company for their new tour in New Zealand which opens in Auckland at His Majesty's Theatre in Scntember.

Mr Hamilton Hill, was appearing at the New Empire Palace, Shepherd's Bush, on the 16th June. * * *

Mr William Anderson's No 1. Dramatic Company are at present playing the drama “Honour Thy Father" at the Melbourne Royal.

Vesta Tilley earned over <£Boo a week during her recent engagement to Williams, New York. She got £2 per minute for all the time she spent on the stage, outside of calls and the moments spent in bowing. A man used to time her with a stop watch.

W. F. Hawtrey has been appearing on the vaudeville stage in New York, in a playlet entitled “The Hansom Cab.” Leroy, Talma and Bosco, the clever illusionists, seen here last year, are about to tour in a melodrama in England, introducing all their business.

Australians are evidently not the only people who have to battle with national prejudice in South Africa. The James Nelson American Opera Company, of 40 members, which left New York a few months back for a South African tour found itself without audiences in Johannesburg, owing, it is alleged, to the prejudice against Americans. The Company, which was producing “The Prince of Pilsen,” had to shut down after seven weeks, and only 10 contrived to save sufficient money to return to New York. The loss on tho venture was .£B,OOO, the greatest part of which was subscribed by the actors themselves.

iff. Twenty thousand people the re-opening of the chutes at San Francisco.

Those who are in a position to judge viewed with doubt the success of a “oneman” entertainment in a theatre the size of the Alelboume Princess’—in a setting the size of that in this theatre. The results, says “Punch,” fairly astonished everyone, even the management, 'tia said. The house in evidence was a record one, it is understood, for an entertainment of the class of that given by Mr Knowles in this city, and the outcome a triumph. The Knowles personality held his hearers enchained. W. J. Lincoln, manager for Air Knowles, is to bo congratulated on the way he handled his star, and tho work he accomplished in but a brief time. No small share in the success achieved was due to him.

*• * Mieg Irene Franklin was appealing at the Majestio Theatre, Chicago, on the 19th June-

Professor Antonio and hie Dog and Monkey “Circus are undoubtedly the "drawing card” in the programme presented to patrons at the Theatre Eoyal during the current week. The marvellous display of intelligence by the animals in the many feats they accomplish is astonishing. * * # Distinctly amusing is the verdict that may be unhesitatingly pronounced on M. Victorien Sardou's new three-act comedy, presented by Mme. Rejane at the New Royalty, London, on Thursday night, the 38th June. “La Piste” is (says the "Morning Leader”) essentially Gallie in theme, just as essentially Sardouian—if the adjective may be permitted—in treatment. Florence Rebiilon, now the wife of Casimir Rebillon, was previously the wife of Philippe Jobelin. On the Rebillons’ return from their honeymoon a communication, of a passionately amorous character, addressed to Florence, is found in a drawer. It is nndated, and really dates back to her first marriage. Rut how to satisfy her husband of this? There is only one way. Husband No 1 must corroborate her version. So she calls on her ex-husband, who, thinking he is helping to cloak a deception of hueband No. 2. willingly agrees to back up everything hie ex-wife has said. And even when she names his nephew Oscar as the partner of her guilt he/ quite unsuspicious that she is telling the truth, induces his nephew, who has naturaly denied it, to admit the soft impeachment. The mad, wild imbroglio that ensues, worked out with all S'axxlou's ingenuity and stagecraft, as is the denouement, is deliciously funny, but need not be desteribed in detail. Suffice it that for three acts of cleverly contrived and sustained fun, and not really such very naughty fun after aIL "La Piste” is comedy—or should it he farce?—worth seeing. And it was acted in the touch and go fashion it imperiously demanded. Very ar-cli was Mme. Re jane, who, it is almost superfloue to add, played Florence with her little shrugs and jerky exclamations. And altogether delightful is the scene when she calls upon her husband No. 1, cleverly impersonated by M. Arvel, as was husband No. 2 by M. Rozenberg, an actor with an easy, unforced style; while all the smaller parts were in more than capable hands. ® - <» Harvey and Morris have been keeping the large audiences at the Theatre Royal during the week in a simmer of merriment with their laughable sketch of mistaken identity. * * # Mr Thomas Kingston is said to have great opportunities to display his ability in the drama “Leah Kleschna/ 1 ’ * » m Mr Fred Rosevear’s singiug of that popular ballad, "I Trust You Still,” is a first rate item in the programme presented t<3 patrons at the Theatre Royal. * * =s Mr Will Rollow (who is now in his last nights on the programme) has been receiving well merited applause nightly at the Theatre Royal for his excellent humorous contributions. * * # Mim Annie Mayor, one of the most popopular of Australian actresses, a few years ago, who will be remembered as having appeared as Nellie Denver in the original production of “The Silver King,” is on her way from South Africa, and intends presenting her entertainment, “Drama in Camera,” throughout Australia. Since leaving Australia Miss Mayor has toured successfully the United States and Canada, thence England and South Africa. Her entertainment is original in character. Various scenes are given, with rapid changes of costumes and make-up. Nearly 100 are presented, ranging from historical characters to modern impersonations. The second part of the programme is devoted to a portrayal of “Shakespeare's Wives,” which has reference strictly to the great dramatist’s plays, and has no bearing on his private life.. * a » Mr Ward Lear has firmly established himself as a favourite with patrons of the Theatre Royal. His fresh budget of comic songs this week earn for him applause from all present. # * * That sterling actor Mr James B. Atholwood, is said to have a first-class part in “Leah Kleschna.” * * * The Musical Gardners are the headlines at the Christchurch Opera House this week.

Amongst the plays to he produced by Miss Tittell Brune and Mr J. C. Williamson's Dramatic Gompany during the forthcoming New Zealand tour will be the successful piece entitled “Merely j Mary Ann.” It has been a wonderful j money-maker where ever produced and the company is seen to great advantage in it. In speaking of the first perform- ! ance at the Theatre Royal, Perth, the | “Morning Herald” says'":—lsrael Zangi will is about the cleverest man at pre--1 sent catering for the British public in literary wares, and in his dramatisation of a novel of his own under the name ,of “Merely Mary Ann” fie fias done ; something equal in finished workmanship to anything written by the author of “Lady Windermere's Fan” and “An Ideal Husband.” The curtain of the second act was strongly suggestive of i that brilliant writer, and rather more ! consonant with nature and real life than j was usually the case with him. It is ! the story of a humble, neglected maid of I all work in a London lodging, who ' gradully came to feel an engrossing hut almost passionless affection for one of »the lodgers, an impecunious composer who refused to pander to the miserable taste of the age. There is nothing sensational about it, from beginning to end. Except that Mary Ann inherits half a million from a dead brother, who had gone to America before she was j born, the incidents are the ordinary j work-a-day world, in which much is to bo endured and little enjoyed; but out : of this humble material the skill of the auther has reared a structure full of artistic charm and impressive effect.

Every sentence is strictly relevant to the scheme in hand, and advances the action of the piece a step or two; and behind the surface appearance and purely objective aspect of it all there is a symbolical significance of deep meaning and a genuine criticism of life. This may in cold piint appear an over-refine-ment not very suitable to dramatic effect, but we are much mistaken if anyone in the large audience which filled the Theatre Royal last night found any want of truth and passion in the course of the poor menial's pathetic story, or was unpleasantly conscious of any aggressive technique. The humour of the play is Zangwill’s at his beet, and is that best description of all humour —the humour that is scarcely separated from tears. In “Lady Win dei-mere's Fan” there is a dazzling wit, just as there is in the comedies of Congreve and Sheridan, but very little of that different and higher quality called humour. Such productions are like fireworks; they have in them a superabundance of light, but no warmth. Zangwill's comedy has enough wit and to spare, but there is humour, too, and of a sort which is not very common nowadays. Miss Brune herself is at her best in Mary Ann, the lodginghouse “slavey.” Except, perhaps, the final incident in the last act, when the wealthy heiress resumes for a moment her drudge's garb before accepting her old admirer, the whole thing rings true. The trusting simplicity and guileless purity of the girl are brought out with admirable delicacy; and her doglike affection for the not very gracious Lancelot is made to appear very tender and pathetic. There is no banality here, but a time, honest, nature of plain homespun. In the last act Mary Ann is changed into Marion, the courted heiress, and Miss Brune it appear somehow that that refined lady was just what the poor menial under such influence would in the course of the six years that had elapsed have become. Miss Susie Vaughan appeared in the original London production of the piece as Mrs Leadbatter, the worx-iecl, querulous, but not ill-natured lodginghouee-keeper, and last night in the same pai't she eclipsed-, all her previous efforts in Australia—which is saying a good deal, for she is a genuine ai*txst. Mr Kingston as Lancelot, the aspiring musical genius, is a great improvement on the actor who played the part in the States, and gives a thoroughly sound performance. Mr John Beauchamp as the amiable Peter, who manages to combine musical composition with steady devotion to the tea trade, confirmed the good impression he made on his first appearance in Australia, which was in “Leah Kleschna” and Mr At hoi wood presented in that sanctimonious humbug, the Rev Mr Smedge, another of those finished studies with which he has enriched the Australian stage. Miss Marshall hit off the character of Rosie Leadbatter to the life, and Mr Sweeney made no mistake as the motor maniac, Lord Totben-

ham. Smaller parte were well filled by Messrs Dudley and Lloyd and Mcsdames Pet tit t, Calvin, Fergusson, Stevenson, and others.

# * a Some realistic views are being displayed at the Theatre Royal this week by the aid of the Warwich Bioscope. “Kiss in the Tunnel,” “Raid on the Canteen,” “New Zealand v. Glamorgan,” the latter picture especially is watched with manifest interest, and several members of the “All Blacks” combination can be easily recognised as they march on to the field of play.

There are about a dozen picture shows playing the towns between Wellington and New Plymouth at present.

The Two Starrs contribute a very pleasing serio item,, and dance to the programme at the Theatre Royal. “I've Saved my Money” is nightly redemanded by the large audiences at this popular theatre.

Miss Ada Reeve is an enormous success at the New Empire Palace Theatre, Johannesburg. On the opening night she sang the National Anthem, and then had to give seven songs before they would let her off the stage.

S? * # One by one, all Mr George Bernard Shaw's plays, a few years ago despised as “unactable,'' are being produced. The latest which is to staged is “Caesar and Cleopatra,” an exquisite satire, in which Caesar has an offensively “respectable” British secretary, who is eternally reminding him of the dignity of his position, with reference to how these things would be regarded in Londinium. This is to be the play in which Forbes Robertson and Gertrude Elliot open in their first American season.

The Heller-Mahatma Company are arranging to commence a tour of New Zealand shortly.

Miss Stella Vernea has sung herself into favour with patrons at the Theatre Royal. Her singing of “When My Sweetheart” is an excellent item, and well merits the applause it receives.

The following is the cast of characters in “The Virginian ” which is to be played by Mr J. C. Williamson's “Squaw Man” Company during the forthcoming New Zealand tour:

Charles Waldron, as The Virginian; Geo. Carey as Judge Henry; F. Campbell, as John Taylor; Geo. Burnett, as Alexander Carmody; Dwight Damforth, as Andrew Dow; Edwin Lester, as Uncle Henry; Rapplay Holmes, as Honey Wigginn; Harry Plimmer, as Nebrasky; Cyril Mackay, as Steve; Leonard Willie, as Baldy; Hardee Kirkland, as Trampas; Ahtliur Lissant, as the Bishop; Frank Stirling, as Frederick Ogden; Miss Ola Humphrey, as Molly Wood; Mrs G. B. W. Lewis, as Mrs Henry; Miss Beatrice Usher, as Mrs Carmody; Miss Florence Gieeson, as Mrs Taylor; Mris Katie Towers, as Mrs Westfall; Miss Adelaide Bryant, as Mrs Dow; Miss Mary Bancroft, as Mrs Henre; Miss Edythe Bayard, as Mrs Ogden.

“I think a little jubilee goes a long way,” said Miss Elllen Terry, at the jubilee banquet given in ber honoxxr at the Hotel Cecil. “For months you have had Ellen Terry poked under your noses, until—well, bear with me this evening, and I promise to go to America in January.” The shilling fund instituted by the new London daily paper “The Tribune,' 5 found 53,563 subscribe; I ®, ajid, with <£322 xuised in America, amounted to A3OOO.

Tasmania is to be included in the Australasian tour of “The Squaw Man” Company.

The instrumental items of Monaghan aud Sheehan are highly appreciated by Theatre Royal patrons. During the week this great musical double have charmed patrons of this popular house of amusement with their classical selections on the comet, piccolo, piano, banjo, post horn, etc. / # *

Atlias and Collins, Miss Ivitty Wager, Miss Cora Casselli and Fred Poplar were all appearing at tlie Empire Theatre, Bradford, on the Mth June.

Two more plays have just been secured by Mr J. C. Williamson for Australasia. Cine of these entitled “Human Hearts,” is of the melodramatic order and has been a reigning success in that class of piece for some time, both in EAgland and America. The other is “When Knighthood was in Flowei',” an adaptation of the novel of the same name by Charles Major, who is already favourably known to Australasia as the author of “Dorothy Vernon of Haddon Hall.” The play is a romantic costume comedy drama of a similar type to “Dorothy Vernon,” and in all probability will be eventually added to the repertoire of Miss Tittell Brune.

Besides the many spaclal engagements made and projected by Mr J. C. Williamson for his pantomime at Her Majesty's Theatre, Melbourne next Christmas, it is . his intention also to utilise the services of the chorus and some of the principals of the Gilbert and Sullivan Company in order to still further strengthen the combination which will undertake the production. The touring of that company will therefore be suspended for the peiiod of the pantomime season but will be taken xxp again immediately afterwards. * * *

Satisfactory business, better on the whole than that which attended him in Melbourne is being experienced by Mr William Collier at Her Majesty's Theatre Sydney, and “On the Quiet” in particular proved a pronoxxuced favourite. The young comedian departed again for his native land via Vancouver on August 7th, the oxiginal intention of playing a season in Brisbane having been abandoned by Mr J. C. 'Williamson, who could not unfortunately “fit in” the dates, owing to the . fact that His Majesty’s Theatre there was wanted fbr the Gilbert and Sullivan Oomnanv.

A promising attraction of Messrs Maomahon's forthcoming New Zealand campaign will be the appearance of the world-famed Irish American actor, Mr Charles B. Verner, just arrived from London, who will be seen for the first time in this colony in a series of new and distinctly popular Irish dramas notable among which are mentioned “Shamus O’Brien” and “Eobert Emmett.”

Messrs O. and J. Macmahon are at present in Australia busily engaged in organising a strong dramatic company for their forthcoming New Zealand tour which will commence at His Majesty’s Theatre, Auckland in September Bth, and continuing thence to all the Southern townd and centre® taking in the Show dates at Palmerston N., Napier, Hastings, etc., Christchurch at Exhibition time and the West Coast, of the South Island at Christmas. A number of strong dramatic novelties quite new to New Zealand have been secured, and a special engagement has been entered into for the first appearance in this colony of the eminent Irish -American actor, Mi- Charles EL Verner, who will appear in a series of new and popular Irish dramas. In the course of this uaportant tour some of the favourites of the Macmahon Dramatic Company will reappear reinforced by several new and highly capable artistes.

Mr John Beauchamp, the experienced actor whom Mr J. C. Williamson engaged for “old man” pari® with the Tittell Brune Company, is proving a most valuable addition to it, and his presence in the east of the various plays has had tire effect of materially strengthening the productions, and in still further improving the general balance of the interpretation. Those who have seem him speak in the highest terms of hie acting in the part of Sir George in “Dorothy Vernon,” and reports speak no less highly of his excellent manipulation of the characters of Peter in ‘“Merely Mary Ann.” the General in “Leah Kleschna,” and Tom Oxley in “Sunday.” Certainly from all accounts he may be considered —as was indeed anticipated—a very decided acquisition to the Australasian stage. THE KEITH COMBINE. A CAPITAL OF NEARLY TWO AND A HALF MILLIONS. The merger of the two controlling factions of vaudeville amusements in America, which was effected when Mr B. F. Keith and F. F. Proctor combined their interests, has been strengthened by Mr 9. Z. Poli entering tlie combination with his ten theatres. The combined interests of this combination will be close to £2,500,000. The B. F. Keith booking offices in New York City will now book for the entire combination of theatres, and will control the vaudeville attractions in the following cities: —Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Cleveland, Providence, Pawtucket, Columbus, 0., Toledo, 0., Jersey City, Pittsburg, Washington, Baltimore, Buffalo, Rochester, Detriot, Paterson, Hoboken, Toronto, Can., Portland, Me., Worcester, Fall River, Lawrence, Lowell, New Haven, Hartford, Springfield, Mass., Bridgeport, Conn., Water bury, Scranton, Wilkesbarre, Utica, Reading, Syracuse, Altoona, Allentown, Binghamton, Schenectady, in addition to the four Proctor Theatres in New York City, 23rd Street, sth Avenue, 58th Street, lt2sth Street, and the Proctor Theatres in Newark, Albany, and Troy. It should be understood that this new combination with the affiliation of Kohl and Castle, Middleton and Tate, and Mr Mayerfield, Jr., will control the following theatres west of Cleveland: —In Chicago, The Majestic, Chicago Opera House, Olympic Theatre, Haymarket Theatre, the Columbia Theatres in St. Louis, and Cincinnati, the Hopkin's Theatre in Louisville and Memphis, the Grand Opera House in Indianopolis, and the nine Otpheum Theatres, situated in Sialt Lake City, St. Panl, Denver, Kansas City, Omaha, New Ox*leans, Minneapolis, Los Angeles and San Fran cisco. It will be seen by the above that the Keith booking offices, in affiliation with the Western Vandeville Managers’ Association, will practically conti-ol all of the good theatres in the larger cities of the United States, extending from the Pacific to the Atlantic coast, and from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico. An act may now receive contracts for two years’ work withont a repeat, and the routine of the act will be such that the performer can go from town to town without doubling back on his tracks, and will be able to save a good deal of money in railroad fares, and will be guaranteed work for two years advance. He can nowbo booked from the Atlantic to the Pacifio and return, covering every im no riant city in the United States.

MDLLE. ANTONIA DOLORES.

Private cablegrams received in Wellington last Monday announce the fact that Mdlle. Antonia Dolores has menced her Australasian tour at_ the Sydney Town Hall in a most auspicious manner. Money has had to be turned, away at each concert. , , Since Mdlle. Dolores left Australia for America and the Continent of Europe four years ago, she has appeared m all the leading centres of the world. Sh® has captivated London audiences, who now simply rush to the concerts where this artist is announced to appear. Scotland, Ireland, Berlin and Paris a.ll accord to Mdlle. Dolores great welcome whenever she visits these places. The artistic powers that this singer possesses are marvellous, and she has been described by some of the leading critics of the continent as an artist to "her linger tips. She has a voice that can meet the range of any music, no matter how exacting it may be, and it is a voice that has that beautiful liquid tone that makes her singing delicious. The cultured style, the charming personality that Mdlle. Dolores possesses makes her undoubtedly one of the most accomplished singers at present on the concert platform. Her real domain lies in her power of singing the old English and Italian, and French and German modern songs. In these particular songs, Dolores may be regarded as being unexcelled by any artist. She is a most versatile artist, and can maintain the attention and interest of an audience for a period of not less than two hours at any one concert. It will be remembered by all those who heard her during her last visit to this continent that with only the aid of a pianist, she used to appear before the public and go through a whole programme by herself and create enthusiasm by her brilliant tinging and artistic powers that no other concert artist lias been able to do in this country, at any rate. Messrs J. and N. Tait, are directing the tour. This week’s illustrations contain a fine portrait of the talented vocalist.