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The Parisian Bathing Beauty. 15 min. ON at 8.51, F.S. If the truth must be known about this act, in the afternoon, it was the most complete “fall-down” for a big headliner ever seen. I never saw an audience go to pieces, after a tremendous hit, as they did with Selbini. The show up to that time, was improving every act, and “That Quartette” had them in the best humor, and they were ready for the big act that we were sure was to be sprung on them. Selbini opened her act with a flourish on a bicycle, appearing in a very stunning gown and making a very dainty picture, against the most seamy and badly painted drop. She proceeded to do a number of things, including songs. (very indifferently rendered), some juggling – that has been much better done in a 3-a-day section, and some bicycle work, of which the same thing might be said. The little boys that she carries with her did not meet the requirements as laughmakers, and the audience sat as if frozen in cakes of ice. Once in a while, there was a feather hand, but everybody seemed to be wondering when the “sensation” was to be sprung. The disrobing act might have been a sensation some years ago, but did not receive any more than passing applause. The truth is that the woman is traveling on her very beautiful “Shape” and some stunning costumes, but when it comes to talent, she is about worthy of an early place on a 2-a-day section. In the evening, the place was changed to 8.51 and it saved her. More than that, the kids made good and got a deal of laughter and applause. All in all, she just about met demands but leaves no great impression – such as one might expect from a headliner.
Source:
Keith-Albee managers' report book, February 4-September 9, 1907