THE CRITIC

Observer, Volume 1, Issue 23, 19 February 1881, Page 234

THE CRITIC

Grattan Riggs, an Irish comedian who made a pretty fair name for himself down south, appeared for the first time at the Theatre on Monday and scored a succes cUestime. In Irish parts he is capital, and the numerous disguises ne assumes are very skilfully managed, but the acting in them struck me as in no way remarkable. The "Irish Detective" is exactly like " The Phoenix " and half-a-dozen other pieces of the same kind we have had here lately. The pit and stalls seemed to enjoy it and literally roared with delight at the end of — I think it was the third act, but the dress circle kept significantly silent. Mr. Riggs is supported by our old friends Messrs Burford and Steele, who have both good parts. The former especially, acts the repulsive ruffian to the life, and deserves much praise for a very equable representation. Miss Adelle and Miss Wilton fill the ladies' parts, and are tolerably successful. The latter woxild, however, do well to take a lesson in dressing from the former. That fringe is abominable. Mr. O'Brien extracted a good deal of fun from rather a weak part and kept the audience in an excellent humour whilst he was on the stage. This actor improves every time one sees him. To-morrow, " Shin Fane," which is the best piece in the Riggs repertoire, will be produced, and ought to draw a good house. I understand it will be splendidly mounted.

The rooms occupied by Sara Bernhardt in America numbered eight on the second floor, and consists (says an American paper) of the reception-room or parlour, the chamber of the traijcdiome opening from it; the room for her maid and toilet rooms, the chamber of her lady companion, also communicating with the parlour ; the private dining-room, with toilet and anterooms connected. The furnishings of the grand recep-tion-hall are of the most costly and elegant description. The general tone of the room is in gold and moss greens softened by deep shades. The enrpet is a. subdued blending of gold and green ; the wall decorations match it in lighter shades. The furniture— divans, easy chnirs, &C. — is upholstered in gold green satin, with trimmings of ruby velvet. Choice paintings nre appropriately distributed throughout the apartments.