‘The Patriot’

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Grand opera, five men and one woman. Opera by Stanislaus Stange and Julian Edwards own set in three – ARGUMENT- The scene is laid out in the house of a Tory farmer, who with his Tory neighbors is plotting to kill Washington on whose head is a reward of 5000 [pounds] ($25,000) Marian, the daughter returns from a visit to her brother, who is a solider in the American army. Washington enters seeking shelter from the storm, and is invited to stay by Manheim. After Washington retires, the Tories throw dice to see who will slay the Father of His Country. Marion overhears and retires to the room supposed to be occupied by Washington. To her father falls the killing of Washington. He ascends to the room occupied by Marion and thinking the occupant is Washington stabs her with his hunting knife. As the Tories are preparing to flee to the British lines Washington appears unharmed, thanks them and leaves. Manheim then discovers he has killed his own daughter. For the big cities this act will be a tremendous drawing card I think. In a small city like this with, of course a small musical element, it is a rather risky production but I positive that with the story, fine music and excellent singing it will be a good drawing card for me. I think a two week’s stand in the big houses would be advisable.
Source:
University of Iowa, Keith-Albee Vaudeville Collection, Manager Reports, 23 September 1907-12 March 1908