“The New Producer”

Singing and piano.

Sextette from "Lucia," "Toreador" song, and "Kiss Me Again."

Henry Bellit presents this operatic turn, which holds up well as a singing feature. The act opens in a bare stage with a new producer walking upon the stage calling a rehearsal. He is to produce an operatic sketch for vaudeville. His tenor is skeptical regarding the chances, but the producer has great faith. A young woman enters asking for a position, and gives a demonstration at the piano, singing "Kiss Me Again," which immediately shows the act is striving for class in the singing. A mixed chorus of eight also comes in for some good vocal work, with the principals all capable. The baritone handles the "Toreador" song, after which there is some excellent vocalizing by a trio with a prayer song following, with the Sextette from "Lucia" the closer. All operatic selections are handled expertly, with each of the leaders owning a real voice, while the chorus is well balanced. Bertram Peacock is the producer, to good advantage with a strong baritone. Henry Antrim is a capable tenor. Blanche Morrison uses a high soprano with good results, with Beatrice Elliott doing nicely with her contralto. At the Prospect in an early first part spot this turn was one of the hits Monday night.

Variety, 40:6 (10/08/1915)