Two men and two women in a rural sketch called “Old Friends.” Another copy from Poor Nerne’s plays. Very well acted from a low comedy standpoint, and created quite a little laughter. The two old men were much better than the women, and while the act is not especially strong it is far above the usual three a day act, and I consider myself lucky in getting three shows out of them. 18 minutes, full stage.
Black Art act. Black cyclorama drop with extra footlights. Two clowns with the usual tricks, but very well done and applause was frequent. Pantomime good for the youngsters, altho’ the lights were a little off this afternoon. Good value, and especially good three show act. 16 minutes, full stage.
Pianologue. Up to this spot Miss Wakefield was the hit of the show, and received an unusual amount of deserved applause. She sang or rather talked her three songs with piano accompaniment in a very artistic manner. In my mind there is no doubt but that she is the best in this line we have ever played. Received three curtain calls at close. A very good act. 10 minutes. Interior.
On at 2.29,, 11 min, full stage. I consider this one of the best novelty acts in the business, one that will make thoroughly good anywhere. Miss Taylor’s feats of markswomanship are interesting; Mr. Taylor’s equilibristic work is much out of the ordinary, and the setting of the act is all that can be desired.
On at 2.18, 11 min, in 1. Imitations, songs and violin-playing. Figuring her at $125, she is a little high, but at $75-100, she is good value, as she looks well and offends nobody. No. 2 is about as strong a spot as she can hold in the 2-a-day houses, however.
ON at 1.38, 12 min full stage, 3 min close in 1; 15 min in all; 3 shows. The best bag-punching act that I know of. The comedy is a trifle crude. Close in 1, with burlesque boxing. This will make a good opening act anywhere.
Van Cleve impersonates the negro, Harry Wentworth, the Dutchman, and “Pete,” the mule. Act made a big hit with the children. Van Cleve’s bareback riding caught the crowd. Hit of the show up to this time. 12 min.- full stage
2 men, One working straight and the other eccentric, blackface, in a musical sketch, entitled:- “Finding a Partner” Armstrong is quite a clever pianist. Both their voices are good. Received some few laughs for the comedy. Alright for an opener. 22 min.-full stage closed in one about 5 min.
The audience appeared to appreciate Miss Pay’s work and she was given a fine reception, dividing the applause honors of the bill with Hamilton Hill. Personally I cannot see Miss Pay at all except as a mugger, and even in that I think she is very unfunny. 9 min. in one.
Positively the best xylophone artists that have ever appeared on the local stage. – Their work was a revelation to all present and they finished great. An unquestioned hit. 12 minutes in one.
