On at 1.43, 14 min full stage, 4 min close in 1; 18 min in all; 3 shows. Their costume is a bit queer, also some of their instrumentalism, although most of the latter is quite good. I have trimmed their act down to 12 min. by cutting out a cornet solo and violin solo, the weakest numbers.
Juggler and a crackerjack who got his audience early in his work and help it throughout his act. He introduced a number of novel feats and received a rousing good hand at his finish. He will hold the closing place on the bill without the last trouble and his work should create favourable comment. 17 minutes. Palace
Comedy sketch: two men, one woman. One of the biggest hits we ever had in the house. Mason is a comedian ofmdecided [sic] ability and he got as many laughs as the audience had in it. His trick piano playing was a scream in fact everything he did was a positive success. His assistants were all that could be desired and I don’t know when we have had an act that seemed to give more general enjoyment and satisfaction. CDF 18 minutes.
Two men in a comedy sketch, ‘Finding a Partner.’ One blackface, the other white and straight. There is no particular plot to the offering, they sing some songs very acceptably, introduce a little piano playing and got away with all they attempt with credit to themselves. This act is very good and made a favorable impression. 20 minutes, CDF.
In Imitated Caricatures of Well Known Players. Received big advance applause. She has improved the act a little although it is just as raw and suggestive as when first presented. The jury seemed pleased and gave her a rousing hand for each impersonation. With big applause on the finish. 20 min, full stage.
This is something of a novelty and the man causes a number of laughs by his peculiar manner, but it didn’t reach as strongly as I expected it would. 10 min. in 1, 2 shows.
This is a very good comedy sketch founded upon the trail marriage idea, and very well played by Miss Franklyn and Mr. Kean. Could stand a much better place than I am able ti [sic] give them this week. 18 min. Full stage, 2 shows.
On at 4:34, 15 min, full stage. The best military act I have ever seen. Made a pronounced hit this afternoon. As we have a long show this week I have instructed them to cut out the preliminary stage pictures and singing and start with all light up and the men in action.
On at 2.15, 15 min full stage, 5 min close in 1; 20 min in all. From Bruno’s appearance and his work I am afraid it is only question of a very short time before he is compelled to quit, for his physical condition is very bad. Although Miss Russell does her best to hold up the act, still the snap that Bruno used to put into it, particularly his exceedingly good eccentric dancing, is sadly missed. I would not be surprised to have them break down at any show while here.
On at 2.01, 10 min, full stage, 4 min close in 1; 14 min in all. A musical com. Act of the old school. In fact it has been so long since we have had one of these acts that it seems almost like a novelty. Did all right in this spot. Their concertina playing will carry them through. Think that their price, $175, is from $25-30 too strong. However, I would not make a holler at $150.
