Rice and Barton

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Twenty-two women, each in stunning garments, fill the stage with life and color. Nine men bring the total of stage folk with the show to a total of over thirty; and every man and woman has much to do, doing it all well. "A Night at Brighton Beach," the opener, is served up in three scenes. "The Red Light District." the burlesque, runs in one set. An interlude of specialties engages Jeanette Young, John J. Dempsey. Revere and Yuir, and the American Cowboy Four. Lottie Walters deserving especial commendation for an artistic portrayal of her role. Helen Jessie Moore and Ollie Omega are others noticeably well adapted to their roles. John J. Dempsey displayed a clever routine of eccentric soft shoe dancing which met with approval. Charles Barton heads the roster of comedians. John P. Griffith works opposite to him in the burlesque with good result, and Frank Wesson pairs with him in the first part.
Leo Stevens scores the character hit of the show with a funny creation in the burlesque. The audience was with him from the start and laughs piled upon laughs whenever he was in evidence. His "sneeze" is one of the funniest bits of individuality.
Here is a real burlesque show. It has the backbone of old time burlesque, which Rice & Barton have always adhered to, leavened by costuming of modern design and beauty, music that is lively and well sung, and comedy which brings laughter without a thought of offense.
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Variety 16:3 (09/25/1909)