FROM BARBER’S SHOP TO THE STUDIO.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17865, 5 June 1926, Page 20 (Supplement)

FROM BARBER’S SHOP TO THE STUDIO.

Those who have appreciated the very satisfying character work of Marc M'Dermott in those American film fea tures wherein he has appeared, do not realise that this sterling actor was, at one time, a tonsorial artist in .a little hairdressing saloon in Elizabeth Street, Sydney, opposite the Balfour Ilotei that now is. There are some of the old-timers, including veteran lightning sketch artist, Harry P. Stewart, who well remember the well-groomed Marc wlr.n he shouted “You’re next!” to waitingcustomers. In 1899 Air Stewart was manager of the Opera House, situated in King Street, Sydney, whereon M‘Arthur's warehouse now stands. One day a young fellow came along to Mr Stew are and stated that he would like tc become an actor. Liking his appear ance and address, the manager, after a brief interrogation, decided to give the applicant a part in “Around the World in Eighty Days.” The newcomer, who was M'Dermott, made good. Encouraged by his success, he sold out his hairdressing bush ness and went to London, where he supported that famous actress, Mrs Patrick Campbell, subsequently going with her to the United States, where, after a lengthy term on the legitimate

stage, he entered the movies, and is now commanding a very nice salary and plenty of work. Another Australian actor, who placed under Mr Stewart's banner, and also made good in the motion picture field of America, was Alfred Clayton, whose name crops up occasionally when the cast of characters is published on the screen.