In “The Divorce Dinner.” This is a condensed version of “Divorcons.” I have never yet encountered a vaudeville act made over from a successful play that seemed to land. In my opinion the act is too talky, lacks action and needs stage management. It might appeal to the “high-brows” in some of the big cities where Miss Scott has some drawing power. Here it passed as an incident of a good bill. Miss Scott is very clever and had surrounded herself with a capable company and with a vehicle written to supply her talents out to be a welcome addition to vaudeville but not with “The Divorce Dinner.” C.D.Fcy in 3.
Mexican Marimba Quartet. A very classical musical novelty that should prove a feature of any program. Went very big this afternoon and had to response to a couple of encores. Could work in 2. Fcy in 3. Time 16 min.
The Italian Street Musicians. The biggest applause hit ever in the house. Audience simply could not get enough of these two boys. Time 18 min.
In “The Baby.” This is the star of “Mother” in a comedy-dramatic sketch that grips one and has the necessary punch to make it land. Scene is laid in the reception room of a foundling asylum. Miss Dunn plays the part of a German mother who is forced to leave her baby for adoption. She returns soon after to claim the child but the authorities refuse to give it up. Her emotional pleading induces the young doctor to break the rules of the establishment and the curtain falls on a big laugh. Although the story is serious the comedy is skilfully blended and a laugh comes just as the audience is on the verge of tears. Miss Dunn is to be complimented for the magnificent setting she has given her act and she also deserves praise for the excellence of her supporting company. In my opinion the act would be a welcome feature on any program. Special act in 3. Time 17 min.
The Chitty-Chats. A very good act for this spot and went over exceedingly well. DeNoyer has discarded the tramp make-up and now has an act that is clean and enjoyable throughout. Out to do well on any bill in this spot. Street in 1. Time 19 min.
Singing comedienne. Don’t know whether the preceding act put a damper on this one but she got a bad start this afternoon. She is a very pretty girl with a good singing voice and a nice personality and good looking clothes. Was a little long in making her changes at the matinee and the holiday crowd got uneasy. Went much better at night. Olio in 1. Time 12 min.
“The Joy Riders.” Had it not been for the fact that I was an act short this act would have received a blue slip after the matinee. Without exception it is the worst apology for an acrobatic act that has ever been foisted upon the office. It has one redeeming feature. It lasts but seven minutes. Wood in 4. Time 7 min.
Equestrienne Fantasie. A beautiful costumed and well mounted equestrian act with a handsome white horse, a pony and a dog. Closed the show in excellent shape and held the audience to the finish. Garden in 4. Time 12 min.
In “Nifty Nonsense.” This act proved a sure fire hit this afternoon and repeated again tonight and should prove a welcome feature in vaudeville. Gaston carries the burden of the act and his songs and eccentric manoeuvers got over in splendid shape. C.D.Fcy in 3. 4 min close in 1. Time 22 min.
A Couple of Friends. At last Val Trainor seems to have got something worthy of consideration. I confess I was rather in doubt about his ability to land here today after his horrible effort earlier in the season with a woman partner. He has a capable comedian now as a partner and properly placed ought to make good in an early spot on a big bill and could go down on a small bill. They went as well as anything on the bill today. Street in 1. Time 18 min.