Irwin’s Majestics

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The few changes that have been made to “The Majestics” act have not altered the running of the show, leaving it “one of the best burlesque shows that the Eastern Wheel can boast of.” The show has a steady and snappy pace from start to finish, providing plenty of evidence that those employed earn their money.
The act includes two comics, Gus Fay and Joe Hollander, offering comedy that is “up to a high average at all times.” Gus takes the lead most of the time, a superb comedian, while Hollander provides a solid support and supplies the majority of the musical accompaniment. Joe West has replaced Frank Ferron as ballad soloist and shines despite a poor selection for his first solo which is old and worn. Working with the comedic talents of Fay and Hollander, West’s “Lovely Joe” does better. The principal women remain the same but Florence Bennett becomes the stand out performer. “Miss Bennett has plenty of opportunity to display her ability along different lines and few women in burlesque are better adapted, for she has looks, a magnetic manner and reserve which is more a mark of ability than anything which can be affected. Evelyn Walker Fay, Buelah Benton and Dolly Sweet are also featured. Miss Walker is seasoned and continues to do well, Miss Benton sings the old-time ballad “Silver Threads Among Gold” to which William West performs a long handstand to earn applause, and Dolly Sweet handles her material capably as she sings a French song among others. Fay and Hollander use a beer-exchange bit, original with fay, but it has since been “lifted” by one or two acts now in vaudeville
The numbers are a big part of the show. The songs include a catchy piano piece called “Down in Lover’s Lane” by Fay, a corking “drunk” number by the male chorus, “Goodbye, Mary” led by Evelyn Walker, and the best looking number “Marie from Paree” from Dolly Sweet.
Supporting these numbers are a god looking, active bunch of chorus girls who work up the numbers in good shape and look well in their several changes. While “The Majestics" can be classed as a clean show there are a number of things that are allowed to creep in which do not belong. The kicking or bumping of girls is not funny and has no place. The same can be said of both the “kid” song, where Edith Hollander whippers to the front row and offers kisses to those who care to indulge, and a barefoot dance which has no sense to it.
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Variety 21:5 (01/07/1911)