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Ivan Bankoff has another "girlie" but he doesn't bill her as such, in fact, not at all. Asked who she is he replied "Just a girl." For further details he would no further than to say that he had found her in San Francisco and taught her dancing. Part of that may be true but part only for he could not have taught her toe work. She is not youthful enough to have accomplished
the feat within a year (she appears to be in her late teens). The girl is rather good looking though not petite. With someone to aid her. in proper dressing she should make a corking
appearance. Bankoff has been "out of town" for some time. There was some argument over military duty in Chicago, the upshot of which was that Ivan entered the service. Shortly
after the armistice came along and Bankoff shed the khaki. Assisting him also is a pianist, and a clever one. He played throughput and for a specialty had an orgy of the classical which he topped off with a popular melody with variations. The opening dance had the girl in a home-madey costume but with a toe exhibition somewhat different from the usual. With Bankoff's aid she performed many rapid single foot toe spins and assumed graceful poses, at their conclusion. During Bankoff's own specialty, which drew returns, the girl made a costume change that was in much better taste. There was more of the toe work with additional "steps," but that number was featured by her rapid back kicks, touching her head
with both feet, which is a rare stunt. For a finish Bankoff was attired in the brilliant raiment of a Russian bridegroom, the girl being in white satin, but of modern mode, save for the headdress. A few fast Russian steps by Bankoff and then the finish in which he whirled with the girl balanced on his shoulders. The turn drew plenty of appreciation and will easily take a
spot.
Source:
Variety, 54:1 (02/28/1919)