“Big Banner Show”

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Miss Berg’s make up is comparable of “Madam X.” She also wears some stunning gowns.
Many changes have been made to the show since it first premiered. The show is under the management of Ed. Gallager and Al. Shean, who also happen to be the primary leads in the two act piece, "The Girl From Paris." One of the changes includes the removal of one of the best characters, originally played by Frank Smithson. The role has been twisted into a rough Irish comedy part, played by Harry Rodair. This character change also spoils one of the best numbers, "Butterfly Shooters," as Rodair now leads it but does not put it over. One successful change was replacing Edna Davenport with Babette Berg in "Julie Bon Bon" and "The Girl From Paris." Her "rag" number is built up by Al Shean and the chorus. Annie Goldie performs "coon" songs in the same manner as in the olio. How she manages to hold out is a miracle; she never weakens and the specialty lands firmly in favor. Clara Gibson appears in only one number with Mr. Gallager. Iva Les Jundt, Ruth Hastings and Florence are also good performers. Thomas De Vassay must not be overlooked for his contribution as the French Spy. Gallager and Shean carry the burden of the show. Gallager plays the "straight" right up to the mark. He fills it with comedy, performs a burlesque opera duet with Julie and a love song with Nora. His "Jolly Scotchman" act was the real gem of the performance. Shean is not in view as often as Gallager, but still a success whenever he was. His work as the inn-keeper was strong, never over played. His number one "Schlitz" was a riotous hit.
The entire cast, especially Mabel Leslie and Annie Goldie, has a tendency to be noisy without necessity. Miss Goldie's "slavey" could be toned down and be just as effective. The chorus for the show needs to be classified among the best burlesque ever. The girls work intelligently and are quite effective.
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Variety 21:9 (02/04/1911)