Lillian Russell

Singing and a speech.

As a singer, Lillian Russell is a beautiful woman; as powerful preacher of patriotism - she is a beautiful woman. She seemed to force every ounce of vitality at her command into her act, yet it seemed to slowly ebb as she grew tired. Breaking in songs frequently, she never wavered, and most held a pathos that seemed to portray her own traditionary sentiment. Miss Russell is "supported" by a bunch of Marines, some of whom are much decorated for bravery. She talks about them, delivers an impassioned patriotic speech, much as though she were out for recruits in war-time; wears a uniform which isn't at all becoming; chats about service flags and the service in general. In fact, Miss Russell's patriotic ardor seems a little late. The war is over. Not even her rather feeble efforts to switch the talk to "we must have universal military training" gives it a genuine ring. As the lady frankly admits she went back to the stage "because she is broke," a little comedy sketch would have been much better for her contribution to the program.

Variety, 53:13 (02/21/1919)