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FROM THE
BENNO LOEWY LIBRARY
COLLECTED BY
BENNO LOEWY
1854-1919 BEQUEATHED TO CORNELL UNIVERSITY
w.
Cornell University Library
The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library.
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http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924082209440
A HISTORY
OF THE
NEW YORK STAGE
Copyright, igoj By Dodd, Mead and Company
Published, January, igoj
UNIVERSITY PRESS • JOHN WILSON AND SON • CAMBRIDGE, U. S. A.
CONTENTS
Page
Coliseum i
City Assembly Rooms i
Chinese Rooms i
Broadway Casino i
Buckley's Minstrel Hall 2
Melodeon 2
Barnum's New Museum 3
Washington Hall 8
Charley White's Opera House 8
National Hall 8
Art Union Rooms 9
Art Union Concert Hall 9
St. Nicholas Exhibition Room 9
Academy Rooms 9
NiBLo's Saloon 9
White's Varieties 14
St. Charles Theatre 17
Old Stuyvesant 18
Donaldson's Opera House 19
Canterbury 19
Franconi's Hippodrome 19
Empire Hall 21
Santa Claus 21
Maze Garden 21
Washington Circus 21
Crystal Palace 22
Broadway Museum and Menagerie 22
Washington Hall 23
vi CONTENTS
Page
Apollo Rooms 23
American Art Union 23
Franklin Museum 23
White's Opera House 23
American Varieties 24
Academy of Music 24
Broadway Athenaeum 115
Buckley's Hall 115
New Olympic Theatre 116
Academy of the Drama 118
Metropolitan Music Hall ii8
The Olympic 119
German Theatre 119
Canterbury Hall 119
Palace of Mirrors 119
Broadway Theatre 120
St. Nicholas Hall 120
Heller's Salon Diabolique 120
San Francisco Mdjstrels Hall 120
White's Athen^um 121
Metropolitan Theatre 121
Grand Central Theatre 122
Tony Pastor's Opera House 122
Laura Keene's Varieties 123
Jane English's Theatre 146
Mrs. John Wood's Olympic Theatre 146
Hitchcock's Summer Garden 169
Pete Morris' Varieties 169
Henry Wood's Marble Hall 169
The Adelphi 170
Hoym's Theatre 170
Tony Pastor's Theatre 171
People's Theatre 173
Palace Gardens 187
CONTENTS vii
Page
Nixon's Cremorne Gardens i88
New Bowery Theatre 189
New Santa Claus 222
Harry Whitby & Go's Circus 222
Joe Pentland's Circus 222
Irving Hall 222
Amberg Theatre 224
Irving Place Theatre 234
California Menagerie 244
Fifth Avenue Music Hall 244
Eustache's Theatre 244
Theatre Orieni'al 244
WALtACK's Theatre (Thirteenth Street) 244
Germania Theatre 303
Star Theatre 303
Dodworth Hall 343
Wood's Minstrel Hall 344
Wood's Theatre 345
German Thalia Theatre 347
Wood's Theatre Comique 347
Lingard's Theatre 348
Theatre Comique 348
Nixon's Alhambra 352
Hippotheatron 353
Lent's New York Circus 354
New Stadt Theatre '. 356
Windsor Theatre 360
Hebrew Theatre 376
Temple of Music 376
Grand Street Theatre 376
Chiarini's Circus 376
ATHENiEUM 376-
Broadway Athen^um 377
Lucy Rushton's Theatre 377
viii CONTENTS
Page
Worrell Sisters' New York Theatre 383
New York Theatre 379 and 386
Globe Theatre . 388, 393, and 396
Nixon's Amphitheatre 389
Broadway Theatre 390
Daly's Fifth Avenue Theatre 390
Daly's Broadway Theatre 391
Fox's Broadway Theatre 394
Heller's Wonder Theatre 394
Neil Bryant's Opera House 394
National Theatre 394
New York Circus 397
Broadway Novelty Theatre 397
New Theatre Comique 397
Old London Street 398
bunyan hjvll 399
Fifth Avenue Opera House 399
Brougham's Theatre 402 _
Fifth Avenue Theatre 403
Fifth Avenue Hall 414
Minnie Cummings' Drawing Room Theatre 414
Madison Square Theatre 415
Hoyt's Madison Square Theatre 436
Theatre Francaise , . 447
Lyceum Theatre 461
Haverly's Theatre . 476
Fourteenth Street Theatre 493
Lyric Hall 516
Steinway Hall 516
Chase's Hall 521
Eighth Avenue Opera House 521
Banvard's Museum 522
Wood's Museum and Metropolitan Theatre 523
Wood's Museum and Menagerie 526
CONTENTS ix
Page
Broadway Theatre 541
Daly's Theatre 545
Harlem Music Hall 590
Mount Morris Theatre 590
Harlem Hall 590
Alhambra 590
Hartz's Bijou Theatre 590
Haymarket 591
Newmarket 591
American Nickleodeon 591
Grand Street Museum 591
Chickering Hall 591
Bunnell's Museum 398, 592 and 593
Great American Museum 593
Huber's Museum , . . . 593
The Regent 593
Fifth Avenue Music Hall 594
Manhattan Opera House 594
Miner's Eighth Avenue Theatre 594
Vercelli's Theatre 594
The Grand Central 594
Chateau Mabille Varieties 594
Mead's Midget Hall 595
Brewster Hall 595
Columbia Opera House 595
American Alhambra 595
Folly Theatre 595
Central Park Garden 595
Hart's Summer Theatre 595
Jerome Theatre 596
Union League Theatre 596
Thirty- Fourth Street Theatre 596
Shay's Opera House 596
Berry's Opera House 596
CONTENTS
Page
Allemania Hall 596
Robinson Hall 596
The Bijou 597
Parisian Varieties 597
New York Parisian Varieties 597
The Criterion 597
Parisian Vaudeville 597
Sixteenth Street Theatre . 597
Mechanics' Hall 597
Old Skating Rink 597
American Institute 598
Pike's Opera House 599
Grand Opera House 599
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAG E
THE COLISEUM
HE minstrel hall known as The Coliseum was situated at 448 Broadway, near Grand Street, in the City Assembly Rooms building, and was originally a ball-room. It was occupied April 2, 1851, by White & Horn's Ethiopian Minstrels. Buckley's Serenaders appeared here May 29, 1854, in the burlesque opera, " Somnambula," with this cast:
Dan Tucker (Rodolphe) W. Percival Lazy Joe (Alessio) R. Bishop Buckley Gumbo (Elvino) G. Swayne Buckley
Liza J. J. Mullen
Aunt Sally (Thereses) T. S. Waddington Deam Darkley (a Notary) J. A. Lonsdale
This house was destroyed by fire Dec. 20, 1854.
THE CHINESE ROOMS
A CONCERT hall known as the Chinese Rooms was situated at 539 and 541 Broadway, west side above Spring Street. The Bloomer company gave their first concert in this country here Sept. 1,1851. They consisted entirely of ladies. The entertainment com- prised gems from the opera, English, Scotch, Irish, and French songs, ballads, duets, and quartets, and several of the new Bloomer waltzes, polkas, etc., and they appeared in Bloomer costume. Mile. Nathalie Fitz James, a vocalist from Naples, appeared, and sang several songs in costume. The Bloomers closed Sept. 6.
In February, 1852, the name of this place was changed to The Broadway Casino. A " farewell " concert was given at this house by W. G. Dietrich, assisted by an orchestra of fifty performers. Robert Heller, the magician, made his first appearance in America here, Dec. 20, 1852. John E. Owens played here April 4, with his entertainment " John Owens' Alpine Rambles," an ascent of Mont Blanc, founded on events of his European tour, embodying sketches
2 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D861
of men and manners on the Continent, humorous impersonations, startling incidents and anecdotes, illustrated by scenery. Mr. Owens' appearance as a lecturer was a complete success.
BUCKLEY'S MINSTREL HALL
THE Broadway Casino was, in June, 1853, leased by Buckley's Minstrels, who gave the place their own name. They con- verted it into an elegant theatre, and produced burlesque operas, elaborately mounted, handsomely costumed, and admirably sung. They remained here three years. G. Swayne Bucltley sang the leading tenor r61es, besides giving his specialties in the olio and singing in the first part. "Cinderella" had a run of six months. Perham's Seven Mile Mirror Panorama was seen here October, 1853, and afterwards went to Academy Hall. Donetti's acting Monkeys, Dogs, and Goats appeared May, 1854. A benefit to the Boone Children was given Nov. 2, 1854. Sunday concerts began Nov. 19, with Mons. V. Guerin conductor. The Buckleys pro- duced the comic opera " Le Chalet, or Swiss Cottage," Oct. 29, 1855, for the first time in America. Bishop Buckley acted Natz Teyk, W. Percival as Corporal Max, and Miss Miller as Lizette. Swayne Buckley sang his old laughing song. White's Serenaders appeared here Aug. 25, 1856. In the organization were W. Penn Lehr, T, Prendergast, Charley White, T. B. Isaacs, W. Vincent, and J. Sivori. The latter is still now living in this city and practising medicine. He is known as Dr. Wheeler. A company of Chinese jugglers appeared here Aug. 11, 1857. Sept. 13, 1858, Charles Gayler commenced a series of lectures on the history and progress of the French and Spanish Missions among the North American Indians.
This building became notorious as The Melodeon Concert Hall. Under the management of Frank Rivers and Geo. Lea, the Melodeon Concert Hall became one of the sights of New York. A benefit was given to Mike Norton, the special officer of the house, Aug. I, when, in addition to the regular concert-hall performances " Tom and Jerry " was presented. A number of professional boxers had " set-tos," including Mike Norton, Henry Gribbon, and Barney Aaron. Norton was afterwards one of our city aldermen, and later represented this city in the Assembly at Albany. Lea assumed the management Sept. 9, 1861, and opened with a specialty company, among whom were : J. H. Ogden, Annetta Galetti and her husband (Mons. Velarde), Ronzani, Eva Brent, Ernestine de Faiber, Kate Pen- noyer, Adele Calla (Mrs. Zeke Chamberlain), Clara Butler, Gustave Theo Bidaux, Ben Yates, C. McMillan, Bob Hart, Denzer Brothers, and others. The admission was 13 cents. At the time Mr. Lea took charge the place was losing upward of ;^3oo weekly, but by
1865: BARNUM'S NEW MUSEUM 3
introducing an array of performers far superior to those in any other similar establishment in the city, the tide of fortune soon turned in his favor, and in a short time the Melodeon was a money-making institution. Sam Cowell, who was then giving entertainments at the Art Union with poor success, was engaged by Lea at $1,000 for four weeks, a large salary in those days. The " Only Leon," after- wards of Kelly and Leon's minstrels, made his first appearance on the stage here. Gustave Bidaux, the baritone singer, also made his debut here. Notwithstanding the great success of this place, the " powers that be " enacted a law against the employment of waiter girls in concert halls, and the Melodeon was closed, and remained dark until P. T. Barnum leased it.
George Lea was one of the most successful managers and unsuc- cessful financiers ever connected with theatrical business. He had places of amusement going in Washington, Baltimore, New York, Brooklyn, and Detroit at the same time. Having accumulated a fortune, he dabbled in stocks, but Wall Street was too much for him, and he left it a loser by over $50,000. Mr. Lea opened a drug store in Port Jervis, N. Y. and was local manager of the theatre in that city for some time. He died in that city August 20, 1902, from infirmities due to old age. He was born in Paris, France, May 9, 1818. Gustave Bidaux died in Hatboro, N. H., March 5, 1886. After having remained unoccupied for some time, the Chinese Build- ing was opened in September, 1863, with Van Amburgh's Mena- gerie, a collection of wild animals, which remained here during the winter of 1863-64. After this it was untenanted until P. T. Barnum leased it, and, after making extensive alterations, opened it as Bar- num's New Museum. The building was taken down and rebuilt, and so promptly was the work accomplished that the establishment was ready for business on Wednesday, Sept. 6, 1865. In addition to the museum and menagerie, a dramatic company appeared daily. The staff of the establishment was as follows : Sole proprietor and manager, P. T. Barnum ; assistant manager, S. Hurd ; superinten- dent, Sylvester Bleecker ; stage manager, E. F. Taylor. The dra- matic corps was: H. F. Daly, T. Hadaway, J. Bridgman, W. L. Jamison, J. J. Collins, R. J. Johnson, E. Haviland, M. Vigotty, R. Anderson, T. S. Atkins, E. Stevens, and T. Soutain, Mrs. J. J. Prior, Mrs. G. Melville, Mrs. W. L. Jamison, Jennie Cleaver, H. Higbie, Emma Schell (danseuse), Addie Le Brun, Monell, Le Moyne, Fenton, Thompson, Walker, Henry, Hill, and Radford, and a corps de ballet.
On the opening afternoon and evening, P. T. Barnum delivered an address in the lecture room, followed by Marie Macarte in classical scenes, entitled "The Passions." W. B. Harrison, the extemporaneous singer, came next, followed by Master Timothy with a dance on stilts. " Children of Cyprus " was the dramatic offering, with this cast :
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Ci86s
Zoe . . .
Benmonsoff
Hassanbad
Noureddin .
Pappillo
Grutnnildra
Fair Star .
Mrs. W. L. Jamison . . T. Hadaway . , . Haviland . . R. J. Johnson Addie Le Brun . . Miss Keheo . . Jennie Cleaver
Sanquinberk H. F. Daly
Cherry Mrs. J. J. Prior
Mustapha J. Bridgman
Alexis W L. Jamison
Ariana (first appearance on any stage) H. Higbie
Inerine Emma Schell
Grumnigra .... Mrs. G. Melville
Among the curiosities in the Museum were Woodroffe's glass- blowers, and a mammoth turtle, said to measure 8 ft. and 4 in. tip to tip, 7 ft. and 9 in. across his back, and to weigh 1,280 pounds. Sept. 18, "Sadak and Kalasrade" was produced. John Hanks lectured there every day. "The Roll of the Drum" was given Sept. 25, and the infant Ravel appeared in a Spanish dance. Oct. 2 came "Asmodeus," with the first appearance of Sallie Parting- ton as Carlo, and the comedietta " Is He Jealous ? " Noah Orr, the giant; Andrew Hansen, the Union soldier giant; and John Patterson, born without arms, were added to the curiosities. Oct. 9 "The Jealous Philosopher" and the play "Wild Kate" were seen. On the programmes for the week commencing Oct. 16, appeared the following : " This establishment does not advertise in The New York Herald."
Leo Hudson played "Mazeppa" here a few nights, when she broke her engagement and Oceana Italia Judah assumed the r61e, and Kathleen O'Neil appeared in " An Object of Interest. " Oceana was the daughter of Mrs. Emanuel Judah, a celebrated actress who made her debut at the Richmond Hill Theatre. There were three daughters, — Oceana, professionally known as La Belle Oceana; lone, a great spiritualistic medium ; and Mrs. Worrell, mother of the Worrell Sisters. Oct. 23 " Victorine " was seen ; Oct. 30, "Still Waters Run Deep," with C. W. Clarke as John Mildmay. This was Mr. Clarke's first appearance at this house. The farce " A Husband in Difficulties " was acted in the afternoons and even- ings of that week. " The French Spy " followed, with Oceana as the Spy, but it was withdrawn, as the musicians of the theatres of New York went on a strike, and proper music was necessary to the play. " Mazeppa " was substituted. For the afternoons, " All that Glitters is Not Gold," and in the evenings, "Married Rake" and "The French Spy;" Nov. 13, for C. W. Clarke's last week, " Don Caesar de Bazan. " The dwarf " Gen. Grant " was seen daily ; also Lizzie Reed, the midget, the two Albinos, and John Battersby, the skeleton. In view of the increasing popularity of the circus, Mr. Barnum decided to give both a circus and dramatic entertain- ment in his lecture room. A ring was cut in the stage (covered with boards during the dramatic performance), and on Nov. 20 a combination, including Mr. Master, and Mme. Chas. Sherwood, Eaton Stone, J. P. Foster, and Prof. Langworthy appeared.
isee: BARNUM'S NEW MUSEUM 5
Charley Sherwood did his act, "Pete Jenkins." Previous to the equestrian performance " The Cross of Gold " was acted.
The following week " The Lady of Munster " preceded the circus. Dec. 4 "The Trials of Life" was the opening bill, and Dec. 7, " The Queen's Page, or the Idiot of the Castle ; " Dec. 1 1, " Michael Erie;" Dec. i8"Darrell the Reprobate, or the Harvest Storm," and Eaton Stone, the bareback equestrian, were the attractions; Dec. 25, " Dwangee the Arab, or the Fairy Guardian of the Magic Well." For the week commencing Jan. i, 1866, an extra perform- ance was given, opening at 11 o'clock in the morning. "The Orphan Boys of Hungary" was the evening performance. The domestic drama, "The White Fawn," was done week of Jan. 8, followed, Jan. 15, by the Conklin Brothers added to the circus performances, and the comedietta "The Dumb Belle." Charles Devere, the slack-rope walker, commenced Jan. 22, with the drama " Jessie Gray. " " Elsie " had its first production Jan. 29. "Sons of the Republic " was acted Feb. 5, and the last week of the eques- trian performances commenced Feb. 12, when "Jessie Gray" was played. Feb. 19, the Scriptural historical drama, by Geo. L. Aiken, "Moses, or Israel in Egypt," was presented. The Aus- tralian Wild Children were on exhibition March 26. "The Sphinx " was first seen here April 2 ; the mythological spectacular drama, entitled "An Earthquake, or the Spectre of the Nile," was seen April 16. The infant drummer, Allie Turner, appeared April 30. "Claude Marcel, or the Idiot of Tarbes," was done May 14. "Bendito, or the Children of the Zincalli," was acted. May 21, " Uncle Tom's Cabin " was produced, with Mrs. G. C. Howard in her familiar r61e of Topsy.
Mrs. Howard closed her engagement June 16. " The Drunkard " was seen June 18, with C. W. Clarke as Edward Middleton. "Charlotte Temple" was played June 25. "The War of 1812" began the closing week of the season (July 2), under the sub-title of "She Would be a Soldier," by Major M. Noah. The season terminated July 7, A summer term commenced July 9, with Geo. L. Fox and a pantomime troupe in "Jack and Jill;" Kate Pennoyer, T. Cherry, Baily, Whitman, Jerrold, Goodwin, Geo. L. Stout, C. K. Fox, Master George Topack, J. L. Lewis, Hancock Myers, Odwell, the Misses Newman, Cranfield, and Follett in the company. " The Red Gnome and the Four Lovers," July 13 ; " The Golden Axe" and "The Frisky Cobbler" July 20. The season closed Sept. i, 1866, with "The Magic Barrel," for Geo. L. Fox's benefit. The next regular season began Sept. 3, and the following is a copy of the programme :
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C'see
C. W. CLARKE Stage Manager
MONDAY, SEPT. 3, 1866. An Entirely New Dramatic Company.
M. Levick, H. G. Clarke, J. W. Norris, C. Wesley, G. Mitchell, H. D. Guion, R. White, J. Colson, Geo. Brooks, J. Folwell, W. Daly, T. Atkins, Mrs. J. J. Prior, Adele Clarke, Miss M. Livingston, Miss Atkins, Mrs. R. G. France, Mrs. Massen, Mrs. C. Newman, Mrs. G. Brooks, Miss J. Fenton, Miss Marks, Miss Walker. George Heilge, scenic artist; W. Demilt, machinist; R. H. Cutler, properties.
Afternoon at 2. " MONEY."
Alfred Evelyn . . . . C. W. Clarke Sir John Vesey . . George Mitchell Sir Frederick Blount . . M. Levick Captain Dudley Smooth
Harry G. Clarke
Graves George Brooks
Lord Glossmore . . . J. W. Norris
Stout H. D. Guion
Sharp Mr. White
Evelyn's Servant .... Mr. Colson Sir John's Servant . . . Mr. Atkins
Clara Mrs. J. J. Prior
Lady Franklin . . Mrs. R. G. France Georgiana Adele Clarke
Evening at 8. "THE LONE HOUSE ON THE BRIDGE."
Pascal de le Garde . . . M. Levick Baron de Forqueroles, Harry G. Clarke
Negretti George Mitchell
Clotilde de Presles Mrs. J. J. Prior
Eugenie de Garran
Mrs. George Brooks
Amadee Jovial Captain Roland Henri Dorville Countess . . Colette . . . Madeline . .
Mrs
George Brooks H. D. Guion J. W. Norris R. G. France Adele Clarke Mrs. Massen
Previous to the Play, both Afternoon and Evening, FANNY TURNER, Female Drummer, will appear with Master ALLIE TURNER, the Infant Drummer. DANCE— By the Diminutive Dwarf, GEN. GRANT, JR.
Among the curiosities was the Gordon Gumming collection of several thousands of the heads, horns, tusks, and skins of the hippopotamus, rhinoceros, giraffes, elephants, lions, tigers, leop- ards and other African animal specimens; Miller's National Gallery, bronze portraits of all the Union generals ; Woodroffe's glassblowers. Gen. Grant, Jr., Master William Wallace, and Cora Ballard, diminutive specimens of humanity, and the Circassian girl. Sept. 10 and week, "The Orphan of Geneva" was acted in the afternoons, and in the evenings "The Lone House on the Bridge." Sept. 17 the domestic drama, byBayle Bernard, entitled "Mary Lockwood, or the Thirst for Gold," was seen afternoons and evenings. Sept. 24 "Footprints in the Snow" was acted afternoons, and " Old Folks at Home " in the evenings. Oct. i, G. A'Becket's comedy, "The Lady in Black," for the afternoons, and " Our American Cousin " at night. Milnes Levick was the Lord Dundreary; Asa Trenchard, Geo. Brooks; Abel Murcott,
18673
BARNUM'S NEW MUSEUM
Harry G. Clarke; Binney, W. H.Daly; Georgiana, Mrs. J. J. Prior; Florence, Mrs. George Brooks (now Mrs. Hart Conway); Mary Meredith, Adele Clarke. "Ten Nights in a Bar-room " was given the week of Oct. 15, followed by "The Sea of Ice" Oct. 22. " Rosina Meadows " was played Nov. 10.
The programme offered for Christmas (Dec. 25), 1866, was as follows :
PERFORMANCES NEARLY EVERY HOUR, DAY AND EVENING.
Commencing at 10^ a. m.
AFTERNOON AND EVENING.
"MAJ. JONES' CHRISTMAS PRESENT."
Mary Stallings . . Mrs. J. J. Prior Mrs. Stallings . . Mrs. R. France
Kesiah Mrs. Massen
Caroline . . . Mrs. Geo. Brooks Dinah Miss Newman
Major Joseph Jones . George Brooks Dr. Peter Jones . . Harry G. Clarke
Crotchett J. W. Norris
Bill Simpson E. Milton
Bob Moreland . . . . C. Farwell Ned Mr. Chapman
After which, EGYPTIAN DANCE, by EMMA SCHELL.
MORTIMER WILLIAMS will appear in his great specialty, entitled Half Bushel Measure Jig, which will be danced on the INSIDE, OUTSIDE and ALL OVER a half bushel measure. Dance, by the Infant Phenomenon, EMMA FOSTER. Dance, by the Diminutive Dwarf, GEN. GRANT, JR.
MORNING. — In the Arena, the Two Humped Bactrian Camel-Zebu, Three Horned Bull, Esquimaux Dog, will appear, with description by JOHN FOS- TER. The Learned Buffalo will astonish with his performance. The Trick Ponies and Performing Monkey will exhibit under the direction of MONS. DAVIS. The Modern Grimaldi, JOHN FOSTER, will introduce the EDU- CATED MULES. Professor HALL will introduce the performing Elephant, JENNY LIND. MONS. DAVIS, the Lion King, will enter the Den of Wild Animals.
"The Last Days of Pompeii" was played July 17. The season closed July 20, 1867, and July 22 G. L. Fox and company, from the Old Bowery Theatre, played the "Little Boy Blue" pan- tomime, remaining until Sept. 7. The season of 1867-68 opened Sept. 9, with the following company ; Milnes Levick (stage man- ager), C. W. Clarke, T. E. Jackson, G. Mitchell, W. Henderson, G. W. Malmberg, John C. Walsh, T. G. Roberts, T. Atkins, S. Wright, E. Chapman, R. H. Ellsworth, and L. F. Massen, Mrs. J. J. Prior, Mrs. R. G. France, Mrs. Massen, Jenny Walters, Irene Gay, Cassie Troy, Fenton, Connolly, Walker, Atkins, Sherman, and France. The opening production was " The Man of Destiny, or The Stranger's Grave," which ran for two weeks, and was fol- lowed for six days with "The Blacksmith's Wife, or the Lost Child." C. W. Clarke died Sept. 22, 1867. He made his first appearance on the stage at the National Theatre (corner of Leonard and Church streets) in 1838. He was at the Park Theatre the
8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C'Ssa
seasons of 1840-43, and in 1843 went to the Bowery Theatre, where he remained for a number of years. Sept. 30, a drama, by Milnes Levick, called "Pale Janet," was produced, which ran until Nov. 4, when "The Earl's Daughter, or the Pride of Birth" took its place. "The Green Bushes," "Adam and Eve, or the Sailor's Dream," "The Union Prisoner," by Mr. Levick; "Emily Ware- ham," by W. C. Burton, and standard comedies were played until Dec. 23, when the pantomime of " Little Dewdrop " was produced. "Pale Janet" was revived Jan. 20, and Jan. 27 "Nobody's Son" — Watts Phillips' play of " Nobody's Child," with another title — was presented, with Milnes Levick as Joe.
Feb. 10 "Little Red Riding Hood, or the Wolf at the Door," by F. G. Maeder, was presented. "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was revived Feb. 24, with Mrs. G. C. Howard as Topsy. This was the last play presented at the Museum. Half an hour after mid- night on the morning of Tuesday, March 3, 1868, a fire was dis- covered on the third floor, in the southeast corner of the building, in the apartment occupied by Van Amburgh's Menagerie. A few of the animals on the Broadway side, among them a kangaroo, a small leopard, a few monkeys, together with the pelicans and a variety of other small birds, were rescued. The cause of the fire was attributed to a defective flue. The building was valued at ;^ 1 50,000, and was insured for ;g62,ooo. The contents belonged to Barnum, were valued at 1^400,000, and were insured for one third of that amount. The basement of 539 was occupied by Charles Gray as a restaurant and oyster saloon. Sigler & Clinton occupied the basement of 541 as a sample room.
A
WASHINGTON HALL
CONCERT room called Washington Hall was situated at
598 Broadway, three doors above Niblo's Garden, and was
used in 1851 for concerts, panoramas, and miscellaneous entertain- ments. In June, i860, Charley White opened with a specialty troupe, and called the place Charley White's Opera House. He had in his company Kate Partington, Emma Schell, Miss Le Claire, Miss Blondell, and others.
NATIONAL HALL
THE National Hall was situated at 29-31 Canal Street, three doors from Broadway, and was used in the spring of 1852 for miscellaneous entertainments.
I8S23 NIBLO'S SALOON
THE ART UNION ROOMS
THE Art Union Rooms were located on the west side of Broadway (495-497), between Broome and Spring streets, and were originally what the name implied, — a place where artistic works were exhibited up to 1852, when it was called the Art Union Concert Hall. It was used for concerts and other light entertainments. Murphy & Peel's Campbell Minstrels appeared here March 12, 1854. Luke West, Matt Peel, and Joseph Murphy were in the company. Hi Rumsey, the banjo player, was heard here March 27. April 10 Charley White took possession with his Serenaders, and the place was called the St. Nicholas Exhibition Room. April 24 Dun Bowers, an old-time minstrel performer, appeared. Dan Emmett and Hugh Donnelly were in the company. After being unoccupied for some time, the place was reopened in July, 1857, as The Academy Rooms, by J. Herman of Henry Wood and Christy's Minstrels. In Ma)', 1858, it was occupied by a con- cert company who sang glees, madrigals, and solos on the same plan as Evans' Cider Cellars, a well-known London establishment. A great favorite here was Tom Watson, a popular English clown and comic singer. He came to this country late in 1857, and appeared at Laura Keene's Metropolitan Theatre. Early in i860 he joined Spalding & Rogers' New Orleans Circus, and, after a successful season there, visited the principal towns on the Missis- sippi River with the same company. It was while thus engaged that he became notorious by sailing at different points on the Mississippi in a wash tub, pulled by six real geese. He appeared at the Art Union Oct. 25, 1885. When in the height of his popu- larity he was considered the cleverest clown at that time in the country, and commanded the best of engagements and a good salary. He, like many others, was his own worst enemy. Gus Grant, Fanny Cole, and Julia Price appeared here Oct. 25. Robert W. Butler became manager in 1859. He continued for one season, and he sold out to R. Smith and Harrison in August, i860.
NIBLO'S SALOON
A SMALL concert hall called Niblo's Saloon was situated in the same building as Niblo's Garden. For a long time it was used for various exhibitions, including concerts, spiritualistic meetings, and lectures. M. Paul Jullien gave his first concert in America here July 2, 1852. Mr. Bunn, from Drury Lane Theatre, London, Eng., made his American debut Oct. 11, 1852, with his Pictorial Illustrations of the Genius and Career of Shakespeare. L. M. Gottschalk, the pianist, gave a concert Feb. 11, 1853, assisted by Rose De Vries, Hoffman, Kyrle, and Mr. Frazier.
lo A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1859
Baroness Julie de Berg, a celebrated pianist, made her American debut Aug. 27, 1853. She was assisted by Amalia Patti Strakosch, Paul Jullien, and H. C. Timm. A concert for the relief of the sufferers by the epidemic at New Orleans, La., was given Sept. i, by Ole Bull, assisted by Adelina Patti and Maurice Strakosch. Mme. Sontag gave a concert Oct. 11, assisted by Carl Eckert, Gasparo Pozzolini, Badiali Rocco, Gasparoni, and Paul Jullien. Mme. Isadore Clarke, late from Cuba, made her d^but in New York Oct. 24, 1854, in concert, assisted by Giovanni Leonanndi, his first appearance in America, Henry Appt, solo violinist, Harry G. Timm, Jos. Noll, C. Besig, Bergner, P. Eltz, E. Boehm, and Bramner A. Herzog. Jan. 20, 1855, a concert was given for the poor of the city, by Paul Jullien, Adelina Patti, Sig. Rocco, Sig. Bernardi, and August Gockel.
On May 24, 1856, Signorina Vestvali made her first appearance in concert, under the direction of Allen Irving. Mile. Carioli gave her first concert in this city Sept. 15, assisted by Carl Anschutz and orchestra. Juliana May first appeared in concert Sept. 22. Mme. Anna De La Grange gave a concert Sept. 24, and was assisted by S. Thalberg and Henri Vieuxtemps. Frezzolini made her d6but as a concert singer Oct. 2, and her last concert took place here Oct. 30, with Vieuxtemps and Thalberg. Emma Stanley made her American debut Nov. 8. Her performance con- sisted of a drawing-room entertainment, entitled " The Seven Ages of Woman," the object being to exhibit the progress of female life, from babyhood to old age. Miss Stanley introduced all kinds of national airs, and put on the costumes of all sorts of countries, at once showing her own versatility and the abundance and costliness of her wardrobe. Her changes were effected with marvellous rapidity, so that it would seem as if a dozen persons were engaged in doing what she alone effected by her skill and ingenuity. She had a charming voice, and sang with admirable taste. She died at Bayswater, England, Dec. 11, 1881.
Stephen C. Massett (" Jeems Pipes of Pipesville ") appeared here Sept. 23, 1858. His entertainments consisted of songs, music, and chit-chat of travel in foreign land. Father Kemp's Original Continental Old Folks' concert company appeared March 30, 1859. Stephen Massett died in this city August 20, 1898, at St. Vincent's Hospital.
With many alterations and improvements, Niblo's Saloon was reopened Nov. i, 1859, by Hooley & Christy's Minstrels, among whom were S. C. Campbell (musical director), George Christy (stage manager), R. M. Hooley (business manager). Master Eugene, Cool White, J. A. Herman, Napier Lothian, J. C. Reeves, J. Hilliard, G. W. H. Griffin, J. K. Edwards, A. J. flobbs, J. Trique, Byron Christy, and Master Gus Howard. In
1863: NIBLO'S SALOON II
January, i860, Christy & Hooley dissolved copartnership. Hooley, with nearly every member of the company, went on a travelling tour, while Christy continued at this place with another party. Hooley & Campbell's Minstrels, who had been performing at 585 Broadway, appeared here Aug. 27, for the winter. Lloyd's Min- strels came here April i. The principals were Billy Birch, D. S. Wambold, Charley Fox, August Asche, Herman, Gustave Bidaux, H. Wilks, Eastmead, Lehman, Andrews, N. Oehl, W. Bruns, A. Breitkopf, C. Blass, Master Albertine, and Cool White. The Peak Family of bellringers, harpists, and vocalists made their first appearance in New York here Dec. 23, and remained until Jan. 8, 1862, the only other entertainments being concerts by Gottschalk, the pianist, and the artists of the Italian Opera company; magical seances, by Prof. Adrien, and French dramatic representations by M. Juignet's company. Oct. 25 C. Sage, former director of the French Theatre, took a benefit, assisted by Miles. Aline, Costa, Berthe Morel, and Maggie Andrews, and MM. Ardivani, Garibaldi, Vietoff, and Prosper. The entertainment was principally musical. Nov. 25 M. Edgard took a benefit, presenting the vaudevilles of " Qui se Disputent s'Adorent," and " A la Bastille," and a cpncert. Mr. De Cordova subseqently lectured here on several occasions.
On Dec. 6, Paul Juignet began a French comedy season, and his company included Miles. Marguerite Bouhelier, Anna Ham- burg, Natalie Dumas, and Aline Delange, and MM. Ernest Gravier, Julian Rosseau, Albert Mary, Dubois, Garton Grande, Edgard, and Juignet. The opening entertainment comprised a prologue in verse, Theodore Barrifere's " La Feu au Convent," and MM. Dupin and Delacour's "Deux Hommes du Nord." These representations were repeated every Monday and Saturday, with slight interruptions, when the company played in Boston until June 5, 1863. Among the most important pieces produced were Henri Conscience's "Un Pauvre Gentilhomme," Theodore Barriere and Jules Lorin's "Le Piano de Berthe," MM. Lambert-Thiboust and Girardin's "L'Onde et I'Ombre," Henri Rochefort's and Albert Wolf's "Un Homme de Sud," Dumanoir and Clairville's "Triolet a la Recherche d'un Pere," Dumanoir and Dennery's "Don Caesar de Bazan," "La Dame aux Cam^lias," "La M^sre de la Famille," "Un Tenor Leger," "La Code des Femmes," "Le Serment d'Horace," Dumanoir and Clairville's "L'Amoureux de Pontoise," About's "Risette, la Millionnaire," De Musset's "Les Cheveaux de ma Femme," Cogniard Fr^res' "Bruno le Fileur," Balzac's " Mercadet le Faiseur," " Le Chevalier du Guet," MoliSre's " Le Depit Amoureux," L6on Battu and Jaime fils' " Lucie Didier," " La Pline et le Beau Temps, " " Pas de Fumee Sans Feu, " Offen- bach's "La Rose de St. Fleur," and Octave Feuillet's "Peril en la Demeure." Jan. 20, 1863, the Brothers Schmid and Leute,
12 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D864
three Swiss singers, made their first appearance in America here.
Paul Juignet again essayed the direction of French comedy and vaudeville. His company consisted of MM. Ernest Gravier, Roche, Faye, Pelletier, Donatien, Edgard, Maillet, Duval, and Benjamin; Mmes. Angele Levasseur and Anna Hamburg, and Miles. Louise Maillet, Stephane Bergeon, Hdl^ne Donatien, Nathalie Dumas, Louise Pelletier, Graziella, and Estella Dumas. The season lasted, with slight intervals, from Oct. 27, 1863, till April 30, 1864, during which time the following works, with others, were presented : " Les Vivacitds du Capitaine Tic," by M. Labiche ; "Le Pour et le Contre," by Octave Feuillet; "Jean qui Pleure et Jean qui Rit," by M. Dumanoir; "Les 37 Sous de M. Mon- tourdin," by M. Labiche; "Je Dine chez ma Mere," by M. Thiboust; "Le Caporal et la Payse," by M. Varin; "LaFamille Lambert," "Les Noces de Jeanette," by Victor Masse; "Rue de la Lune," by M. de Kock; "Jeanne la Sotte," by MM. Julien and Pilates; " Tambour Battant ; " "Histoire d'un Sou," by M. Clair- ville; "La Chanoinesse," by Eugene Scribe; "Les Pantins de Violette," by Adolph Adam; "Le Gentilhomme Pauvre," by M. Dumanoir; "Les Femmes Revolt^es," by L. Lurine; "Un Duel sous Richelieu," by Lockrey and Mellesville; "La Dame de St. Tropez," byDennery; "Les etrennes de M. Poisson;" " Le Jour de I'An a New York," by MM. X. and Z. ; Les Deux Aveugles," by M. Offenbach; "La Bataille de Dames," by M. Scribe; "Le Voyage de Monsieur Perichon," by MM. Labiche and Martin; " Trombalcazar," opera bouffe, by Offenbach ; " La Joie Fait Peur " (the original of Boucicault's "Kerry," produced at Burton's old Theatre as "Sunshine Through the Clouds"), by fimile Girardin; "Les Affrontes," by Emile Augier; "Le Vicomte Girogee," by M. Labiche; "Le Cceur et 1' Argent," by MM. Morrier and Martin; "Les Filles Gavit," by V. Hugo; "Les Petits Oiseaux," by Labiche and Delacour ; " Le Mari a la Campagne " (the original of "The Serious Family"), by MM. Bayard and De Vailly; "Le Demi Monde," by Dumas p^re; "Le Mariage aux Lanternes," by Offenbach, first time in New York, Feb. 6, 1864; "La P"emme de Primrose," by Cormon; "Une Femme qui se Jette par la Fe- netre," by Eugene Scribe; "La Filles de Giboyer," by M. fimile Augier; "Les Erreurs du Bel Age, " by Xavier and Varin; "Ba- ta-clan," opera bouffe, by Offenbach; "On Demande un Gouver- neur," by Decoursette ; "Trente Ans, ou la Vie d'un Joueur," by Decanze and Dinaux; "La Marraine," by Scribe; "Les Filles des Marbres," by Barrifere and Thiboust; "Bianella, ou le Servanti MaJtresse," opera bouffe, by Frederic von Flotow; " La Diplomatie du Manage," by Mme. Berton-Samson ; "Jean Baudry," by Auguste Vercquerio; "La GrSce deDieu," by Dennery and Lemoine; "Une
i86s: NIBLO'S SALOON 13
Mauvaise Nuit est Bient6t Pass6," by H. Honore; "Le Medecin des Enfants," by Anicet Bourgeois, and "Montjoie," by Octave Feuillet.
The Harrison English opera company, under the management of Gabriel Harrison, with B. A. Baker as stage manager, began a season here Jan. 13, 1864. Mme. Comte Borchard, Mary Shaw, Wm. Castle, S. C. Campbell, Geo. Rea, and M. B. Pike were in the company, with Theodore Thomas as conductor. Jan. 13, 15, 19, and 21 " The Bohemian Girl " was rendered. A fortnight later the company returned, and on Feb. 3, 5, 10, and 12 sang "Mari- tana. " March 24 Mr. and Mrs. Harry Watkins and Carlotta Shaw presented an entertainment written for them by Charles Gayler, entitled " Photographiana. " This they repeated for several nights. Niblo's Saloon was leased June i by Mr. Crabtree, the father of Lotta, with Harry Jordan as his acting manager. Lotta was announced as "The California Pet," and appeared in the sketches "The Mysterious Chamber" and "Jenny Lind," singing, dancing, and playing on the banjo. This was her first appearance in New York. The audience was cold and indifferent, and did not appear to appreciate the abilities of this lady. She remained four nights, during which "The Wife's Lesson" and "The Maid of Munster" were also given. This lady was born in New York, at 750 Broad- way, Nov. 7, 1847. Her father was John Ashworth Crabtree, who kept a bookstore in Nassau Street. Her early life was spent in California, where, as a child actress, she was a great favorite. She has the reputation of being the richest actress in the world.
The following season concerts were given. The Thorpe Brothers took possession of the saloon Oct. 3, and occupied it for two weeks, giving a series of spiritualistic seances. Oct. 27 Mrs. O'Neill, nie Annie James, gave a concert, assisted by Castle, Campbell, Frank Gilder, and J. O'Neill. M. Juignet's French company occupied Niblo's Saloon Tuesdays and Saturdays during the sea- son from Oct. 29, 1864, until the end of April, 1865, with the exception of slight intervals, when visits were made to Philadel- phia and Boston. Concerts were given by Mrs. O'Neill Nov. 16, by J. E. Perring Nov. 23, by Madame Paravalli and pupils Dec. i, by Mile. Barnetchie Dec. 8, and by Frank B. Converse Dec. 29. On Jan. 4 and Jan. 6, 1865, an Italian opera company, under the management of M. Wertheimber and conductorship of Sig. Rosa, sang "L'Elisir d'Amore." The principal artists were Mile. Claudini Cairoli and Signori Mongiardini, Ardavani, and Fellini. A concert was given by Laura Harris Jan. 23. M. Wechsung, fliutist, made his American ddbut Jan. 24. The Davis family were heard in concert Jan. 26. Feb. 13 Max Strakosch's concert company appeared. Mile. Helene de Katow, Russian violinist,
14 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 1:1852
Jas. M. Wehli, pianist, and Mile. Celestine Huntley, soprano, made their American debut. The other artists were Signori Lorenzo, Remi, Rosa, and Bendelari. The Strakosch concert company also gave concerts on Feb. 15, 16, 24, 25, and March i, 2, 13, 24, and 25, assisted by Laura Harris, Signor Paulicchi, and others.
Mile. Camille Urso, the violinist, gave a concert Feb. 27, and Mr. Cordova lectured March 6. March 22 the Benevolent Dramatic and Musical Association presented the drama of "Deceit, or Feel- ing and Fashion, " and a concert by Gustavus Geary, G. W. Brad- shaw, Mina Geary, and Celia Hoffheimer. L. M. Gottschalk, the pianist, gave a series of farewell concerts prior to his departure for California, with Sig. Muzio, March 29, 30, and 31. Niblo's Saloon was closed as a place of amusement May 9, 1865, and altered for the dining-room of the Metropolitan Hotel.
WHITE'S VARIETIES.
THE house known as "White's Varieties" was situated at 17- 19 Bowery, and was built by Edwin P. Christy, the minstrel manager. It was opened Sept. 13, 1852, by Charles T. White. " The Child of the Regiment " was presented here Nov. 2, when William R. Floyd made his first appearance on any stage, acting the Corporal. The following is the copy of a programme :
Proprietor and Manager C. White
Treasurer ' j. Simpson
Musical Director .- Herr Noll
Dramatic Director T. D. Yeomans
PRICES OF ADMISSION.
Dress Circle 25 cts. I Private Boxes $1.50
Parquet and 2d Circle . . . i2i^ | Stage Boxes 2.00
Part First.
The performance will commence with the farce,
"OUR GUARDIAN ANGEL."
Mr. Dulcimer jerry Merrifield
Jasper Cranky Bannister
DelemereLazytongs . C.Warwick
Molly Snaggs (m which she will sing a new song, called " Talking in My Sleep "
written by Mrs. Osgood) Rose Merrifield
Miss Myrtle Mrs. Isherwood
Kate Swynnerton Miss Pentland
issa] WHITE'S VARIETIES 1 5
Part Second. WHITE'S SERENADERS, AS DANDY NEGROES OF THE NORTH, introducing the following collection of new songs, glees, jokes, etc. :
Massa's in the Cold, Cold
Ground G. Rich
Farewell, My Lilly Dear, . C. White Dina's Serenade .... Corrister
Coon Hunt C. White
Quickstep Full Band
Overture, Full Band
Let 's be Gay, from the opera of " Rob- ert le Diable "... Company
Katy, Darling C. White
Melinda May Corrister
Old Folks at home .... Deaves The Darkey Blackberry Party
Company
Part Third. Favorite Song by Mrs. Rose Merrifield
SHAKESPEARIAN READINGS.
by Miss Lora Gordon, the wonderful prodigy, aged iive years, who will appear in fragments from " King Lear," assisted by her sister, Isabella Gordon.
Highland Fling by Miss E. Johnson
A new Comic Song, " The Bloomerees " Jerry Merrifield
Banjo Solo Dan Emmett
The whole to conclude with the
SMOKE HOUSE DANCE AND PLANTATION REEL,
by John Diamond and Master Franks.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings will be performed the Musical Farce of " The Two Gregories."
No free list to this establishment. No orders received. Afternoon performance every Saturday, commencing at 3 o'clock.
Frank S. Chanfrau was the first dramatic manager of this house, and he took charge of it Oct. 18, 1852. He received from Christy a weekly salary of ;^ioo, and 25 per cent of the receipts when he acted. It was at this time that his acquaintance began with Miss Albertine. In the company were John (" that rascal Jack ") Dunn, A. H. ("Dolly") Davenport, Jerry Merrifield, Keeler, Miss Al- bertine, Rose Merrifield, Miss Isherwood, Mr. and Mrs. France, William R. Floyd, and others.
Mile. Albertine had a checkered career. Her right name was Hannah Manchester, and she was born at the Stone Bridge, Tiver- ton, R, I., in 1831. Her debut was at Augusta, Me,, as Sophia in "The Rendezvous," during the season of 1846-47, but she soon took to the art of dancing. When F. S. Chanfrau played at the Olympic Theatre, Washington, D. C, Albertine was engaged to support him. Her next appearance was at the Arch Street
)
1 6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dss"
Theatre, Philadelphia, as leading support to the elder Booth. This was in March, 1850. She travelled with F. S. Chanfrau for six seasons, commencing in the fall of 1850. In California she not only played Lize to Chanfrau 's Mose, but such characters as Clarisse Delville, in "Satan in Paris," and Dot, in "The Cricket on the Hearth," and danced to the great delight of old "Forty- niners." In 1852 she and Chanfrau returned to New York, and at Astor Place Opera House drew all Gotham to witness their com- panion pictures of the "Bowery B'hoy and His Gal." In 1857, Albertine severed her engagement with Mr. Chanfrau, and returned to California, starring there for two years with increasing popu- larity, when she was induced to accept an engagement to go to Australia with G. V. Brooke. While acting at Ballarat she caught a cold, which turned into the colonial fever. She recovered and commenced to dance, but became so blind that she could scarcely see the footlights, and was compelled to leave the stage. She was under the care of oculists for one year without receiving any benefit. At last, driven by poverty, — all her jewelry and clothes having been parted with, — she went into the Benevolent Asylum in Ballarat, where she learned to sew, knit, and read. For years she was considered dead by all who knew her in this country, a report to that effect having been printed in the Australian papers and copied in various American journals. One day the following letter was received by the editor of a New York paper and published.
Ballarat, Victoria, Australia, Jan. ii, 1875. In visiting the Benevolent Asylum in this city, I discovered a poor American lady, formerly a member of the profession, whose sad case at once enlisted my sympathies, and I take the liberty of calling the attention of my professional brothers and sisters in America, through your valuable journal, to a most worthy object of charity. I was introduced to a blind inmate, who, I was astonished to discover, was a Mme. Albertine, who, some years ago, I saw in the Celeste style of drama here, and thought her very good. She came to Australia thirteen years ago, playing in all the theatres. Through illness the poor woman became totally blind some seven years ago, and has been for a long time an inmate of this benevolent institution. She is about forty years of age, and of a most sen- sitive nature. Her only object now is to get back to her native place, where she would be among her own people. I do think this a case in which all mem- bers of our profession should unite in providing for her future, and as far as is in niy power I will do all I can to forward her to her friends. The expense of sending her to Boston would be about two hundred and fifty dollars. She is a poor, afflicted, sightless woman, and an American by birth. Yours truly,
Stuart O'Brien, Theatre Royal, Melbourne.
This was the first intimation her friends had of her existence. Through the extraordinary kindness of Mr. O'Brien, Mr. Adams, American consul, and Commander Chandler, of U. S. S. " Swatara " she reached America. Just before her arrival home her brother- in-law received the following communication :
X8S3: ST. CHARLES THEATRE 1 7
Theatre Royal, Melbourne, Australia, March lo, 1875. Sir, — Mme. Albertine, for some years quite blind, and an inmate of one of our institutions, left for New York per United States ship of war Swatara, hav- ing had a passage generously granted her by Commander Ralph Chandler. The ship will arrive in New York about the end of May next, and she desired me to write to you as to her reception on her arrival. She also suggested that I should ask you to write to Bessie and Susan Manchester. I shall be most happy to hear from you of her safe arrival at New York, and there is some hope of the restoration of her sight. I am, sir,
Your obedient servant, Stuart O'Brien.
To William Cannon, New Bedford, Mass.
The " Swatara " arrived here with Albertine on board June i, 187s, and for a brief period she resided at Hoboken, N. J., after which she went to New Bedford, Mass., where she remained till her death, Oct. 6, 1889, at the residence of her sister, Mrs. Wil- liam C. Cannon.
In February, 1853, this house was remodelled and opened as the St. Charles Theatre, with dramatic performances. James Pilgrim, the author-actor, was the manager, who began Feb. 2$, with a small stock company. "The Serious Family" was acted March 2, with Mr. Robinson as Aminadab Sleek. After it, came " A Husband at Sight, " with Miss Albertine as Cather- ine; a dance by Miss Sophie followed, after which Miss Mitchell played Joseph in " The Young Scamp. "
John R. Scott began an engagement March 16. He appeared as Sir Giles Overreach, in "A New Way to Pay Old Debts," and later in "The Stranger," "Virginius," on which occasion M. W. LefRngwell made his bow in the farce, "P. P., or The Man and the Tiger," "Don Caesar de Bazan," "The Willow Copse," "Rob Roy," "Richard IH.," "The Adopted Child," "Richelieu," "Damon and Pythias," and "Wallace." "Eveleen Wilson," a dramatization by Mr. Pilgrim, from the story of that name, was seen April 4. John R. Scott closed April 16. "The Momentous Question " was acted April 18, with J. M. Cooke as Robert Shelly, Miss Mitchell as Rachel Ryland. "Eveleen Wilson" followed, with Pilgrim, Robinson, Miss Mitchell, and Mrs. Mason in the principal characters, and the entertainment closed with "The Boys of Saratoga," Julia Pelby acting Caroline Grantley. April 20 Mrs. H. P. Grattan played Lady Randolph in "Douglas." May 9 was the anniversary of the New York Dramatic Society, and the performance consisted of "The Merchant of Venice," — Harry Seymour as Shylock, Miss Grey as Portia, and Kate Hunter as Nerissa, — " The Review, " with Welsh Edwards and Fanny Os- borne in the principal characters, Dutch readings by Sam Glenn, and the farce, "My Wife's Second Floor."
The next manager was Charles R. Thome, who opened Aug. t
VOL. U. — 2
1 8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE i:i8s4
with "The Poor Soldier," "The Child of the Regiment," and "The Lady and the Devil." The company included Julia Pelby, Delia Norval (who was murdered at Windsor Locks, Ct.), Rose, May, Allen, Mesdames C. R. Thome, Brunton (formerly Helen Matthews), Barnett, Monell, Lewis, Mestayer, Brunton, John Winans, A. L. Vincent, Odell, Harry Seymour, Tom Wemyss, Holmes, J. B. Wright (stage manager). Mr. Thorne took a benefit Sept. 3 in "The Limerick Boy," which had this cast:
Coates Weaver
Remden Odell
Job Vincent
Paddy Miles . . . James Pilgrim Mrs. Fidget .... Mrs. Monell
Henry Holmes
Jane Miss May
A dance by Miss La Folle was done, after which came " Michael Erie": Michael Erie, Harry Watkins; Philip D'Arville, Griffiths; David Gilliflower, Weaver; Andrew, Holmes; Jackson, Thomas; Dame Stapleton, Mrs. Monell ; Julia Spring, Julia Pelby ; Stephen Gerard, Vincent; Miles, Seymour; Bates, Odell; Mary, Miss Allen. This was followed with a song, after which "The Widow's Victim " was played :
Jeremiah Clip . Jane Chatterly Mrs. Rattleton
Mrs.
Wm. Goodall C. R. Thorne . Miss Pelby
Podge Griffiths
Twitter Holmes
Mrs. Twitter .... Miss Allen
The performance closed with " The Ourang Outang. " George Lea bought this house from Charley White in 1854, and managed it for a few months as a novelty theatre, after which it became a German theatre until Jan. i, 1855. I* was then closed, and on March 11, 1855, was sold at auction and converted into stores.
THE OLD STUYVESANT.
THE " Old Stuyvesant " was situated at 663 Broadway, opposite Bond Street, and afterwards variously known as Academy Hall, Donaldson Opera House, and Mozart Hall. Mons. L. Poz- nanski appeared here in concert Dec. 20, 1852. R. H. Sliter, the clog dancer, was seen Sept. 11, 1852. John E. Owens began a summer season here July 25, 1853, with his polyphonic, myrio- graphic monologue, founded on his ascent of Mont Blanc. Sept. 28 there was exhibited what was considered a wonderful curiosity, — Cornelius Vroman, aged 57 years, a native of Munroe County, N. Y., who had been in apparent pleasant and profound sleep for five years. Perham's "Seven Mile Mirror" was seen Oct. 31,
1853. Sam S. Sanford's Opera company were heard Aug. 28,
1854. Perham's Burlesque opera troupe appeared Oct. 16, 1854, in "The Rabble Family's" comic pantomime "Sam Patch," ar-
X8S2: FRANCONI'S HIPPODROME 19
ranged by Edwin Marden, being a burlesque on the Ravel Family. The house closed Jan. 5, 1855, for two months. Perhara's same company returned in March, and remained until July. The next occupants were Christy's Minstrels, who commenced Dec. 10 for twelve nights. E. H. Pierce, J. B. Donniker, Ben Mallory, J. W. Raynor, Lewis Manns, W. P. Collins, N. W. Gould, T. Christian, H. Huntington, S. Condit, and Jos. Murphy were members of the company. The name of the theatre was now changed to Donald- son's Opera House. Tom Thumb and Dr. Valentine appeared April 28, 1856.
Mme. Anna de La Grange gave a concert here Nov. 10, 1857, for the benefit of Henrietta Simon. The name of the house was again changed, this time to The Canterbury, and was opened by Fox & Curran July 16, i860, as a variety theatre. Charley White appeared Aug. 27. J. H. Odgen, the English comic singer, made his American debut Sept. 3. Marietta Ravel, the tight-rope dancer, the Carlo Family, Cool Burgess, and Kate Pennoyer were added to the company Oct. 22. David Braham was the musical director. Adah Isaacs Menken appeared Dec. 17 as a singer and dancer. George Christy's Minstrels appeared June 10, 1861; the principals were George Christy, Cool White, George Fox, Ed. Haslam, W. Marks, J. A. Herman, W. Wrightman, J. Bayley, T. McNally, J. Clairville, F. Cardella, J. Kelk, F. Boniface, Blanque, Lynes, and Masters Bobby and Leon. Fox & Sharpley's minstrels took possession of the hall Oct. 7, and remained for three weeks. In this company were Sam Sharpley and Dave Reed. They were succeeded Oct. 28 by Hooley's minstrels, Hooley & Griffin, proprietors, who remained until May, 1862, during which time G. W. H. Griffin, Charles Fox, Billy Gray, Melville, Mar- lowe, Reed, Childs, J. C. Reeves, Rollin Howard, Asche, McNally, R. M. Hooley, Morley, Currie, and Smitze appeared. In May, 1862, the Alleghanians appeared.
FRANCONI'S HIPPODROME.
DURING the winter of 1852-53 there was formed a syndicate of showmen (eight Americans), including Avery Smith, Richard Sands, Titus and Seth B. Howes, for the purpose of in- troducing the hippodrome to America. Corporal Thompson's lot, situated at the northwest corner of Twenty-third Street and Broadf way (now occupied by the Fifth Avenue Hotel) — also once known as a hostelrie, a sort of stopping-place for turfmen and other sportive gentlemen, — was secured, and a large structure erected. Although at that time the location was out of town, it was con- sidered the most convenient. It was a little yellow wooden hoyse, originally built as a country residence by Christopher Mildeberger.
20 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1853
At the time referred to, fast trotting horses and light wagons were very popular, and Corporal Thompson's house was a favorite stop- ping place for the gilded youth, the fast men, and the better class of sporting characters of the period. The land belonged to the Rowland estate. It did not bring in much income, and when Monnot made an offer for the property, his proposition was ac- cepted. The little yellow house soon disappeared to make room for the Hippodrome, where the sports of the Roman circus, the chariot races, and gladiatorial contests and other performances were presented. The structure was built of brick walls, two stories high, while the auditorium was covered with a tin roof, the inside of the walls being covered with canvas. The first exhibi- tion was given May 2, 1853. The performers were Mme. Franconi, Henry Franconi, Mme. Chiarini, Les Freres Siegrist, Mme. Sie- grist, Sylvester, Mme. Ricard, Mile. Mason, Angelina, Caroline Vidal, Leontine Geilhard, Adeline Pigett, Euggnie Maria, Mons. Ferdinand Maria, Eugenie Cerf, Mons. Mason, Mons. and Master Nicolo. H. Franconi was director of hippodrome. The prices of admission were: Boxes, 50 cts. ; reserved seats, $1; pit, 25 cts. ; season tickets, ^50. Long before the performance commenced the sale of tickets was stopped, and many thousand were disappointed in obtaining admission. The amphitheatre held an audience of 4,000, which was the capacity of the place. The circle was 700 ft. in circumference.
Franconi's Hippodrome was conducted in a style unknown in equestrian performances. It was a vast amphitheatre, having no stage, but enclosing a stadium, over which were run chariot races, and upon which other exciting displays were made. The contor- tionist, Mons. Deverne, and the Sylvester Family, in the spiral globe act (for the first time in America), were also seen. Franconi introduced his performing " manage " and race horses and racing ostriches. The latter were driven in harness and were rode under saddle by small boys around the race track. There were male and female characters, racing camels, elephants, and reindeers. The stag hunt was done with horses and hounds, leaping barricades and ditches filled with water, twelve feet wide. James M. Nixon was manager of the performance; he also did an act with two boys, on a platform on wheels, while being driven around the ring. Each performance commenced with "The Field of the Cloth of Gold." In the tournament knights on horseback fought a combat with battle-axes and spears, finishing the act with one horse and rider supposed to be killed. The entertainment was continued for about three weeks, when the American artists, with their horses, together with Chiarini and his performing horses, started for a summer tour.
J. A. Dumbolton took a benefit Aug. 12, 1853, when a trotting match took place between Lady Suffolk, entered by Hiram Wood-
18533 WASHINGTON CIRCUS 21
ruff, and Mac, entered by William Whelan. The first season closed Nov. 26, 1853, and the company went to Boston. The second and last season opened June 26, 1854. The Fifth Avenue hotel was built on the Hippodrome's site and opened in 1859.
EMPIRE HALL
EMPIRE HALL was situated at 596 Broadway, and adjoined the Metropolitan Hotel. In February, 1853, it was occupied by Banvard's Pilgrimage to Jerusalem and Holy Land. May 12, 1856, the Keller troupe commenced with tableaux and musical soirees. Gustave Dedas appeared with regular dramatic perform- ances in September, with a French company. A series of paint- ings, representing scenes in Dr. Kane's Arctic voyages, were on exhibition Oct. 12, 1857. The place was afterward known as The Santa Claus, and R. W. Williams was the manager. He re- mained here until the lease expired, January, 1859, when he removed to 72 Prince Street.
THE MAZE GARDEN
WHAT was known as The Maze Garden was situated on Fifth Avenue, near Forty-second Street, opposite the entrance to the Croton Reservoir. The Garden occupied two acres of ground, covered with a large growth of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs, adorned with arbors and fountains, and surrounded by glossy slopes, effectively combining the beauties of nature and art. In the main building were two refreshment saloons with commo- dious piazzas. The most attractive feature of the Garden was the maze or labyrinths, constructed after the plan of the one in Hamp- ton Court, London, formed in the early part of King William IV. 's reign, and the only one in the country. Ice cream and other re- freshments were served. No spirituous or intoxicating liquors were sold. It was open every day, commencing July i, 1853, from 8 A. M. until sunset. The entrance to the Garden was free. Mitchell & Co. were managers.
WASHINGTON CIRCUS
A CANVAS show known as the Washington Circus was situ- ated on the corner of Sixth Avenue and Thirty-ninth Street, in the immediate vicinity of the Crystal Palace. It was opened June IS, 1853, by Col. Alvah Mann, formerly manager of the old Broadway Theatre. Mme. Tourniaire, the Antonio Family, W. H. Carroll and Mrs. and Miss Carroll (afterwards Mrs. Ben Maginley) were in the company.
22 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Ci854
THE CRYSTAL PALACE
THE Crystal Palace was situated in Forty-second Street and Sixth Avenue, and was opened July 14, 1853. It covered five acres. Its sides were composed of glass, supported by iron. There were two military bands, — Dodworth's and Bloomfield's U. S. Band, and an orchestra and Noll's Military Band, — a grand chorus, and an immense organ. There were present about 20,000 people on the opening day. The U. S. Band struck up "Hail Columbia," and finished with "Yankee Doodle." This was fol- lowed by a prayer by Bishop Wainwright. Then came the hymn, "Old Hundred," by the Second Harmonic society, with Geo. Bristow as conductor; Mr. Timm was director of the musical ar- rangements. Theodore Sedgwick, president of the Crystal Palace association, then addressed Franklin Pierce, President of the United States. June 15, 1854, there was "a musical congress." M. Jullien was the conductor. This artist took a benefit here and made his last appearance in America June 26, being his first and only benefit in America. Oct. 31 the place was closed. f[ During the removal of the goods and the sales by auction, visitors were admitted at twelve and a half cents each. This edifice started in its delicate beauty from the earth like the " 'magining of happy vision." Viewed at a distance, its burnished dome resembled a half-disclosed balloon, as large as a cathedral, but light, brilliant, and seemingly ready to burst its bands and soar aloft. Nothing like this building, in shape or size, material or effect, was ever before seen in America. It was two stories high. The first was in the form of an octagon, the second of a Greek cross. The centre of this was a dome, 148 ft. high. The four corners of the octagon were furnished each with two towers, 70 ft. high. These towers supported flagstaffs. The construction of the building was similar to that of the original in London. The 29th annual fair of the American Institute was opened here Sept. 15, 1857. It was destroyed by fire Oct. 5, 1858. The site is now called Bryant Park. '
BROADWAY MUSEUM AND MENAGERIE
THE Broadway Museum and Menagerie was situated at 337 _ Broadway, and was opened Nov. 21, 1853, with a collection of living wild animals, including the rhinoceros, elephant Hanni- bal, lions, tigers, leopards, bears, and zebras, also Herr Driesbach, the lion king. The Siamese twins, Chang and Eng, and Mr. Nellis, the man without arms, were to be seen. This place closed April IS, 1854.
18543 WHITE'S OPERA HOUSE 23
WASHINGTON HALL
WASHINGTON HALL was situated at 103, 105, 107 Eliza- beth Street, near Grand Street, and was occupied Nov. 6, 1853, by a German opera company under the direction of Adolphus Liberati, who opened with the opera of "Das Nachblager in Grenada. "
APOLLO ROOMS
APOLLO ROOMS were situated on the east side of Broadway, below Canal and opposite Lispenard Street. They were used for various exhibitions, such as concerts, lectures, and pano- ramas. It was at one time called the American Art Union. It was afterwards converted into a concert and ball-room, and so con- tinued until it was torn down.
WORLD HALL
A PLACE of amusement known as " World Hall " was situated at 377 and 379 Broadway, corner of White Street. Prof. Hart's panorama and diorama of the whole world was on exhibi- tion here April, 1854.
FRANKLIN MUSEUM
THE Franklin Museum was situated at 127 Grand Street, upstairs, one door from Broadway. It was owned by James Mulligan, who kept a liquor store next door. He also carried on horseshoeing in the basement of 127 Grand Street. The first floor was tenanted by a Mr. Parmelee, who kept a concert saloon. The entire upper part of the building was occupied by Geo. Lea, who leased the place at the close of his management of 53 Bowery (April, 1854), and named it the Franklin Museum. The princi- pal attractions were model artists. On Dec. 7, 1857, there were twenty-seven " ladies, " under the direction of Mme. Wharton, who appeared afternoon and evening each day in the week (except Sunday) in fourteen living representations of statuary. The ad- mission was : Orchestra seats, 50 cts. ; boxes, 25 cts. George Lea continued here until the close of the season of 1859-60. No entertainment of any nature was given here after Mr. Lea left, but the first floor was used as a restaurant.
WHITE'S OPERA HOUSE
WHITE'S OPERA HOUSE was situated at 49 Bowery, oppo- site the Old Bowery Theatre, and was opened Aug. 7, 1854, by Charley White. Here, also, R. M. Carroll made his d^but as
24 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Ci8S4
" Master Marks. " In fact, no similar place ever introduced one- third of the comic material during its whole existence as this same establishment. Dan D. Emmett, Frank Stanton, Billy Coleman, John Murray, Pic Butler, M. Turner, W. Roark, J. T. Huntley, L. Donnelly, M. Lewis, G. White, W. N. Smith, Master Juba, Boston Rattler, Wm. Donaldson, Wm. Quinn, J. Carroll, Tim Norton, Tom Briggs, Hi Rumsey, James Budworth, Wra. Bud- worth, Dan Gardner, Joe Brown, Mike Mitchell, T. D. Rice, John Mulligan, Luke West, Johnny Pell, Sam Wells, Billy Newcomb, Charley Fox, Dave Wambold, Ned Deaves, Pierce, and Warren, all appeared here. One of the favorites at this house was William N. Smith, the champion bone soloist. He was compelled to retire from the profession about 1866, in consequence of an abscess that formed in his right breast, which, after being operated upon, affected him in his right arm, drawing it up so that it was impos- sible for him to shake the bones any more. He went to the hospi- tal, and, while under the influence of ether, the doctors forced his arm back, making it straight, but in doing so snapped some of the tendons, from which up to his death (which occurred in this city Feb. 4, 1869) he suffered constant pain. Mr. White kept the house going for a short time, and was joined in the management by Geo. Lea. White's Serenaders was the entertainment presented until Mr. Lea, finding it was not the success anticipated, took possession of the entire building and converted it into a kind of a "sideshow," which paid better.
This theatre was destroyed by fire Jan. 20, 1857.
THE AMERICAN VARIETIES
A LARGE room formerly occupied as an " American Ice Cream Saloon," at 7 Chatham Square, was refitted and opened by Prof. Leon Sept. 3, 1854, and called "The American Varieties." A stage was erected and performances were given in magic, per- forming canary birds, together with a negro minstrel troupe, con- sisting of J. M. Keese, guitar; H. Mestayer, violin; J. A. Flynn, bones; S. Coleman, tambourine; B. Herrmann, banjo; scenes in ventriloquism. The admission was 12% cts. ; reserved seats, 25 cts.
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
AN historical house in the annals of New York theatres is " The Academy of Music," located on the north side of Fourteenth Street between Third Avenue and Irving Place. It was estimated that ;^20o,ooo would be ample for building such a theatre. Of this amount, ;J! 195, 000 was subscribed and paid in. Instead of
iSssD THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC 25
;?200,ooo the house cost ;^335,ocx); $60,000 for the ground and ^^275,000 for the building. It was erected in 1854, in accordance with the plans and directions of Alexander Saeltzer, architect. There were 4,600 seats. The house and stage was one of the largest in the country. Max Maretzek was the first lessee, and he tented it to James H. Hackett, who gave the initial performance Oct. 2, 1854, of "Norma," by the Grisi and Mario opera com- pany. The prices of seats were considered exorbitant then. Three dollars was asked for parquet seats, and from ;^I2 to $40 for the boxes. The public resented these high prices, and the opening of the Academy was a failure in every sense of the word. Only fifteen hundred persons were present, and the next day the prices were reduced one half.
Oct. 9 " I Puritani " was sung, with the first appearance in this city of Bernardi, the baritone, as Ricardo. The house was closed Oct. 23, and continued dark for one week, in consequence of the illness of Mario, but he recovered to reopen Nov. 14 in " I Puri- tani." Dec. 14 "Norma" was sung, and Sig. Lorini, late first tenor of the Havana Opera company, made his first appearance in New York in four years. He sang the r61e of Pollione, Mario being again indisposed. The season, which had been a disastrous one, with a loss of ;?8,ooo, closed Dec. 29 with a benefit to J. H. Hackett. Grisi and Mario appeared in " La Traviata. " Previous to the opera, Mr. Hackett came before the curtain, thanked the audience for their generosity on the occasion of his benefit, and announced that Grisi and Mario, as well as other members of the company, had tendered their services for a benefit to be given in relief of the poor of this city. It took the form of a concert on Jan. II, 1855, at this house. Ole Bull was the next lessee who had silent partners. A prize of $1,000 was offered by them for the best original opera by an American composer, and upon a strictly American subject. Then the stockholders took a turn, with Chevalier Wikoff as manager, and lost about $28,000. Al- together the first year of the Academy cost about $50,000.
The reopening under the new management occurred Feb. 19, 1855, with "Rigoletto." The company consisted of Beagie Bol- cioni and Ettore Barili (their first appearance in America), Cesare Badiali, Domenico Lorini, Luigo Rocco, Bertucca Maret- zek, Patti-Strakosch, Coletti, Avogadro, Muller, Puinto, Leonardi, and Baratini. Max Maretzek was musical director. The prices were: Parquet, circle, and dress circle, $1; second circle, 50 cts, ; gallery, 25 cts. ; reserved seats 50 cts. " II Trovatore " was brought out for the first time in this country April 30, with Vestvali, Steffanone, Brignoli, and Amodio in the cast. A testi- monial benefit to James W. Wallack, Sr. , took place afternoon and evening of May 29. This was the programme : —
26
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisss
Monsieur Jacques . . Morris Barnett
Melanie Kate Reignolds
Antonio Mr. Burke
Afternoon Performance. "MONSIEUR JACQUES." Vivid
Mr. Levere
Sequence J. Stoddart
After which came the following Concert.
THE SKYLARK Louisa Pyne
HUNTING TOWER (Scotch ballad) Miss Pyne
DUETT, " Tornaine," from " Don Pasquale," by Louisa Pyne and W. Harrison ARIA QUI IDEGNO Borrani
This was followed by
"A MORNING CALL."
Sir Edward Ardent F. B. Conway
Mrs. Chillington Mrs. F. B. Conway
SCENA Isidora Clark
SONG Marion Macarthy
SONG " La Seranata " Miss Duckworth
PAS DE DEUX Ducy Barre and G. W. Smith
After which came
"DELICATE GROUND."
Citizen Sangfroid . . CM. Walcot I Alphonse Grosvenor
Pauline Mrs. Hoey I
The whole concluded with a comic medley clog dance by Ben Yates.
Evening Performance. "DAMON AND PYTHIAS."
Pythias .... E. L. Davenport
Dyonisius John Dyott
Damocles Chippendale
Procles Bernard
Arria Miss Carman
Damon Edwiu Forrest
LucuUus Grosvenor
Philistius Wm. Norton
Calanthe Fanny Vining
Hermione Mrs. Buckland
Child Miss Wallis
PAS DE DEUX Mile. Zoe and Mons. WiethoflE
OVERTURE Orchestra, led by M. Chatel
This was followed by
"THE POOR GENTLEMAN,"
compressed for this occasion, but the principal portions of the play retained.
Frederick Bramble Dr. Olapod . . Corporal Foss . . Lucretia Mac Tab
Lester (Wallack)
John Brougham
Chippendale
. . Mrs. Blake
Sir Robert Bramble . . W. R. Blake Frederick Bramble J.
Humphrey Dobbin . . . . H. Hall
Lieut. Worthington . . John Dyott
Sir Charles Cropeland . Mr. Stewart
Emily Worthington . . Rosa Bennett
The whole concluded with "A LADY AND GENTLEMAN IN A PECULIARLY PERPLEXING
PREDICAMENT."
The Gentleman VVm. Davidge
The Lady Mrs. Stephens
Mme. Jobarde Miss Carman
I855D
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
27
Mr. Wallack, on being called before the curtain, made a graceful speech, and closed by saying " this affair was a free-will offering to him by his company and others of his profession, and he accepted it, not as some journals had hinted, as a mendicant (it having been so represented in several of the newspapers of the day), but as a gentleman." In "The Poor Gentleman " Rosa Bennett was billed for Emily Worthington, but did not appear, owing to illness, and Mrs. John Hoey was substituted for the r61e. The prices of ad- mission were: For the afternoon, ^i ; no seats reserved. Evening, the prices were : Gallery, 25 cts. ; every other portion of the house $1, with 50 cts. extra for reserved seats. The private boxes were sold at auction.
Max Maretzek was the manager season of 1855-56. On Oct. 30 "Semiramide" was presented for the first time. A benefit was given to George H. ("Gentleman George") Barrett Nov. 20, being the final retirement from the stage of this veteran actor. The programme was as follows : Trial scene from " The Merchant of Venice," J. W. Wallack as Shylock (his first appearance in twelve months); Harry Placide as Launcelot Gobbo; Frazer as Lorenzo (in which character he introduced the serenade of " When Rosy Daylight Flies," and, with Georgiana Hodson, the duet, "I Love Thee ") ; Lanergan was the Bassanio ; A. W. Fenno, Grati- ano; Sandford, the Duke; H. B. Phillips, Antonio; Stoddart, Tubal; David Whiting, Old Gobbo; Cutter, Salanio; Hodges, Salarino; Ringgold, Balthazar; Walters, Leonado; Mme. Ponisi, Portia; Mrs. Stephens, Nerissa; and Georgiana Hodson, Jessica, with the song, " Scenes That are Brightest. " This was followed by a concert, in which Dodworth's Band gave several of their compositions. Henrietta Behrend and Borani sang several songs. The performance closed with the third, fourth, and fifth acts of " The School for Scandal, " cast as follows :
Sir Peter R. Blake
Moses T. Placide
Sir Benjamin C. Clarke
Crabtree D. Whiting
Trip Grosvenor
Charles J. Lester
Lady Teazle . . Julia Dean Hayne Mrs. Candour . . . Mrs. Brougham Maria Mrs. Warren
Lady Sneerwell . . Mrs. Thompson
Joseph C. Fisher
Sir Oliver .... John Brougham
Careless F. Lyster
Snake B. T. Ringgold
Sir Harry Walters
Rowley Henry
Joseph's Servant . . L. J. Vincent
Previous to the comedy Mr. Barrett appeared before the curtain having his children by the hand, and took leave of the public in a short and feeling address. He died in this city Sept. 5, i860. Who shall tell the privations he silently endured ? Who picture the anguish of his sensitive feelings as he gasped away his life, sometimes in actual want, and rarely in the possession of the com-
28
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D856
monest domestic comforts ? When the Dramatic Fund was com- pelled by its bad management to curtail its annuities, Barrett was thrown, with his interesting family, almost entirely upon the kind- ness of his friends. How few actors have the prudence to "lay up " in the sunshine a store for a rainy day ! How very few can get rid of the self-conceit which whispers, when they are making money abundantly, that they shall ever do it — that the golden tide will never turn — that no darkness of night shall ever follow the noonday of their prosperity. George Horton Barrett was familiarly known as "Gentleman George." He was born at Exeter, Devon, England, Jan. 9, 1794, and made his first appearance on the Amer- ican stage, 1796, as a child, in "Pizarro," at the Federal Street Theatre, Boston. In June, 1806, he appeared at the Park Theatre, New York, as Young Norval in "Douglas." In 1829 he was co- manager with Gilfert of the Bowery Theatre. In 1847, he returned to England for the purpose of engaging actors for the opening of the Broadway Theatre, and in September he became acting and stage manager of that theatre. On Feb. 15, 1858, he opened a school of acting at 213 Bleecker Street, New York. He had scarcely an equal as a light comedian in America. " Hamlet " was played here Nov. 27, with this cast :
Hamlet C. T. P. Ware
Ghost .... Isaac Clark Pray Polonius . . Thaddeus W. Meighan
Horatio Fredk. I. King
Marcellus A. Joceline
Bernardo . . . . W. J. Deloyne
Guildenstern . . . D. C. Morehead First Gravedigger . Jas. H. Cafferty Second Gravedigger . E. F. Underbill Queen . . . Emily P. Lesdernier Osric . . . i , . Fred M. Edge Ophelia Ada Clare
A season of Italian opera commenced March 12, 1856, under the direction of W. H. Payne, with "II Trovatore." The cast included Brignoli, Amodio, Mme. de La Grange, and Mile. Aldini, in the chief r6Ies. Adelaide Phillips was announced to appear, but was prevented by illness. "II Trovatore" was repeated March 17, when Adelaide Phillips made her dgbut as Azucena. The ninth annual benefit of the American Dramatic Fund occurred here Aug. 18, when the following was the programme:
"TAMING OF THE SHREW."
Petrucio Robert Johnston
Biondello P. C. Byrne
Music Master McDouall
Katharina Mrs. Abbott
Bianca Miss Carman
Baptista Bowes
Hortensio Cranshawe
Grumio H. Jordan
The Tailor , Fuller
The Cook Church
H. L. Bateman read Schiller's "Hymn to Joy," and was followed by "The Widow's Victim," cast thus:
Clip F. S. Chanfrau
Mrs. Rattleton . . . Mrs. E. Place Jane Chatterly . . . Miss Albertine
Twitter C. Warwick
Tremaine S. Browne
Mrs. Twitter . . . Mrs. McDouall
I8S63
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
29
After this came songs by Mrs. Duffield and Julia Miles, followed by " Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady " : Mrs. McLean as the Duchess ; Mary Gannon as King Charles ; Robert Johnston as Ruy Gomez; John Ellsler as the Marquis; Leighton as Don Giovanni, and Mrs. Henry as the Duenna. After which came a dance by Ernestine and Annie Henrade, selections from "The Hunchback," with Annette Ince (first appearance in New York) as Julia; Fleming as Master Walter and Charles Loveday as Sir Thomas. The performance closed with " A Kiss in the Dark. " This was the first appearance, since his European tour, of Robert Johnston. James H. Hackett, with a dramatic company, appeared here Sept. 2 in "Henry IV."
FalstafE Hackett
Hotspur . . . . J. W. WaUack, Jr. Prince of Wales . . . Geo. Jordan
Hostess Mrs. Vernon
King Henry H. Farren
Prince John . . . Miss Duckworth Earl of Northumberland . C. L. Allen Earl of Worcester . . . H. Howard
Earl of Westmoreland F. C. Wemyss
Francis Geo. Holland
Ned Poins Reid
Bardolph J. B. Fuller
Lady Percy Kate Saxon
Sir Walter Blunt .... Haviland Sir Richard Vernon . . . H. Bland
On Sept. 4 a dramatic benefit performance took place for W. M. Fleming, the old manager, not the William Fleming at present before the public. The programme was :
"ROB ROY MACGREGOR, OR AULD LANG SYNE."
(Second and Third Acts.)
Rob Roy Macgregor Campbell
John Dyott Rashleigh Osbaldistone G. K. Dickinson Bailie Nicol Jarvie . . Charles Hale
Dougal James Seymour
Major Galbraith . W. M. Leffingwell Francis Osbaldistone M. V. Lingham Captain Thornton . . A. A. Reed Sir Frederick Vernon, Mr. Cheesebrough
MacStuart .... Saunders Wylie . . Andrew Fairservice . Sergeant .... Helen Macgregor Diana Vernon . Mrs.
Martha
Jean McAlpine . .
. . Sam Ryan
. Mr. Jackson
Mr. Nicholson
. Geo. Edeson
. Mme. Ponisi
W. M. Fleming
Miss Wilson
Mrs. J. Seymour
Followed by the Musical Extravaganza,
"THE INVISIBLE PRINCE, OR THE ISLAND OF TRANQUIL
DELIGHTS."
Don Leander (first appearance in New
York) Mrs. John Wood
Blousabella . . . Mrs. Carpenter Don Moustachez de Harry Barbos
Mr. Cheesebrough Countess Cajola . . . Miss Ryerson Countess Caba ... Miss Wilson
Wink-i Mr. Ryan
Noo-del Thickhead . . Mr. Edeson
Sambo Mr. Nicholson
The Fairy Helen Minturn
Diego Mr. Henry
Marquis ..... T. E. Morris
Abricotina Fanny Deane
Stiletto Mr. Williams
Xquisitelittlepet . . . Mrs. Fleming Taxalatotittletattle . . Miss Jackson
3°
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1857
After which, third act of
"THE LADY OF LYONS."
Pauline Jane Coombs I Widow Melnotte Mrs. H. P. Grattan
Claude Melnotte . . W. M. Fleming I Song — " Annie Laurie " Mrs. Fleming
"ALL THE WORLD'S A STAGE."
Diggory T. B. Johnston
Charles Stanley . Mr. Cheesebrough Sir Gilbert Pumpkin . . T. E. Morris Miss Bridget Pumpkin
Mrs. H. P. Grattan Scene from
"THE WIDOW'S VICTIM."
Jane Chatterly . Mrs. James Seymour | Jeremiah Clip .
Harry Stukely .... A. A. Reed Miss Kitty Sprightly . Miss Minturn
Simon Chas. Parsloe
" Stick " James Seymour
M. W. Leffingwell
"The Merry Wives of Windsor" was acted Sept. 9, with Clara Fisher Maeder as Mrs. Page; Sept. 18, for the benefit of Hackett, and last appearance of the company, " Rip Van Winkle " and " The Kentuckian " were given. John Brougham and Henry C. Jarrett rented the house for one night, Nov. 20, for the purpose of present- ing "The Drunkard, or the Fallen Saved." The following an- nouncement was made: "One thousand children on the stage; a new quadrille by forty-eight lads and lasses, under ten years of age, and a Scotch Strathspey, by eight young ladies, under the direction of Ben Yates. " The cast of " The Drunkard " was :
Edward Middleton . Harry Watkins Lawyer Cribbs . . M. W. Leffingwell
Old Johnson Wilson
Arden Rencelaw .... T. Cline Mary Wilson .... Kate Saxon
Miss Spindle .... Eliza Place Mrs. Wilson .... Mrs. Hield Bill Dowton .... J. G. Burnett Julia Lora Gordon Boon
Mrs. McMahon, an amateur actress from Buffalo, N. Y., made her New York debut Jan. 17, 1857, as Juliet in "Romeo and Juliet," when Mrs. Coleman Pope acted Romeo for the first time in New York. Mrs. McMahon had made her debut in Buffalo, N. Y., Dec. 16, 1856, and the critics of that city were severe to her, but the critics of this city attacked her most unmercifully.
Marietta Gazzaniga made her American d6but at the Academy of Music, Philadelphia, Feb. 23, 1857, as Leonora in "II Trovatore."
She was first heard in this city April 13, following as Violetta in " La Traviata. " She sang in Havana, Cuba, in the winters of 1857 and 1858, during the first season sharing public favor with Mme. Frezzolini, and being overshadowed by Signora Gassier during the last. She then toured the country under the manage- ment of Jacob Grau and Don Diego de Vivo. May 21, 1866, she sang Rachel in "La Juive" at the Academy of Music, this
1857] THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC 31
city. In 1877 she again sang Leonora in the Academy of Music, Philadelphia. She died in Italy in December, 1833. During the last few years of her public life she sang the contralto r61es in many of the operas in which she had previously been heard as a soprano. After retiring from the stage she taught music in this city for several years, assisted by Sig. Albites, her second hus- band, her first having died during one of her visits to Havana. In 1879 she returned to Italy. Gazzaniga was an admirable lyrical actress. There was in her voice a certain purity and sweetness of tone which charmed all. It was a clear, silvery, sonorous, power- ful voice, and of a capacity I have seldom heard in a soprano. She was a prima donna who never got a cold, and never disap- pointed the American public.
The season closed March 21, when Mme. D'Angri and Mme. Johannsen made their first appearance at this house. The occasion was the appearance of the Italian and German opera companies on the same night. The programme was: First act of "Norma," Teresa Parodi in the title r61e, followed by a concert in which Thalberg and Mme. d'Angri were heard. Second act of "Don Giovanni," with Teresa Parodi as Donna Anna; Cora de Wilhorst as Zerlina; Amelia Patti-Strakosch as Donna Elvira; Tiberini as Don Ottavio; Morelli as Don Giovanni; Dubreuil as Leporello, and Morinni as Musetto. This was followed by the second act of "Fidelio," Mme. Johannsen as Leonora; Beutler as Florestan; Weinlich as Pizarro, and Oehlin as Rocco. The last act of " II Trovatore" was given, with Teresa Parodi as Leonora; Mme. Patti- Strakosch as Azucena; Tiberini as Manrico, and Morelli as Count de Luna.
A benefit to John Lester occurred May 4, when " Rob Roy " was given with this cast :
Hamish
Helen Macgregor Diana Vernon . Mattie .... Jean McAlpine .
"ROB ROY, OR AULD LANG SYNE."
Bailie Nicol Jarvie Blake
Dougal Brougham
Owen J. C. Whiting
Galbraith C. Walcot
Thornton Reynolds
Frederick G. S. Lee
Sergeant De Silveria
Rob Roy Wallack
Rashleigh Osbaldistone . . . Dyott Francis Osbaldistone A. H. Davenport
Kate Pennoyer
. Mrs. Hoey
Julia Daly
Mary Gannon
Mrs. Sylvester
This was followed by a new comedietta, by John Brougham, entitled "A Decided Case," after which Shelton's Cornet Band performed, succeeded by the farce " Jenny Lind, " with John Drew as Leatherlungs, and Mrs. John Wood in the title rdle. "Day After the Wedding " terminated the performance. Mr. and Mrs. E. L. Davenport acted Col. and Lady Freelove.
32 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Ci8s7
The house was reopened May i8, by Sig. Morelli, .for three nights, in order to introduce Mr. Jacobi, a young American tenor, who had been studying in Italy. " II Trovatore " was sung, with Jacobi as Manrico and Cora de Wilhorst, her first appearance, as Leonora. May 20, "Lucia di Lammermoor; " May 22, "La Figlia del Reggimento," when Mile. Aldini sang the part of the tenor. A benefit was given to E. A. Marshall, manager of the Broadway Theatre, this city, June 3. The programme was the farce " Simp- son & Co. " : Mme. Ponisi as Mrs. Simpson, Lizzie Weston Davenport as Mrs. Bromley, A. H. Davenport as Bromley. "II Trovatore," with Gazzaniga as Leonora, Mile. Phillips as Azucena, Brignoli as Manrico, Amodio as Count de Luna, followed. Then came the French company (first appearance in this city), under the management of Gustave Debos, in the vaudeville, "Edgard Bonne," with Mons. Edgard, Sage, Victor, Mme. Gonthier, Dedos, Mme. D'Aire, and Mile. Victor in the cast.
Mme. Anna de La Grange leased this house for six performances of Italian opera. She commenced June 29 with "I Puritani," with herself, Brignoli, Amodio, and Coletti in the leading r61es. July I, 20, "Norma;" "Lucia di Lammermoor;" July 8, "La Som- nambula;" July 10, 17, "II Trovatore;" July 15, "I Puritani." The house was then leased by William Stuart and Dion Bourcicault for summer concerts. The season opened Aug. 6, and among the artists were Agnes Robertson, Mrs. John Wood, Mile. Spinola, M. Guilemette, Sig. Arnoldi, Henrietta Simon. Robert Stoepel was musical director. The prices of admission were 2$ cts., reserved seats 50 cts. Elder Hyde, "One of the Seventies" of Salt Lake City, Utah, related his personal and religious experi- ences of the Prophet Brigham Young and the Mormons Sunday night, Aug. 16. Annie Milner, soprano, and Henry C. Cooper, violinist, first appeared in America and at this house Aug. 17. Ermini Frezzolini made her American debut Sept. 7 as Amina in "La Somnambula." Also the same night Labocetta, Gassier, and Carl Anschutz were heard. Mme. d'Angri made her debut in opera Nov. 2, as Arsace in "Semiramide," with Mme. de La Grange in the title r61e. Sig. Bignardi, tenor, made his American debut Nov. 2, in "Rigoletto," then acted for the first time here. "II Trovatore" was sung Nov. 9, Mme. d'Angri as Azucena for the first time in America. Bignardi was Manrico, and Sig. Arda- vini (his American debut) was Count de Luna. The season closed Nov. 24 with " La Somnambula. "
The season was resumed Nov. 30, when Karl Formes made his American ddbut as Bertram, in "Robert le Diable." This opera was a success at the Astor Place Opera House in December, 1851, under the management of Max Maretzek. I give the casts then and as it was done here under B. Ulmann's direction:
1858]
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
33
Alice
Isabella
Robert .
Raimbaut
Bertram
Prioress
Dec, 1851. Dec, 1857.
Signora StefEanone Mme. de La Grange
Signora Bosio Mile. Cairoli
Sig. Bettini Sig. Bignardi
Sig. Vietti Sig. Labocetta
Sig. Marini Herr Formes
Mme. Celeste Signorina RoUa
Mme. Anna de La Grange and Karl Formes first appeared in oratorio in America, December 19, in Haydn's "The Creation." Mme. Anne Caradori first appeared in America, Christmas night, in "The Messiah," in conjunction with Karl Formes and Mile. d'Angri. Mme. Caradori first sang in opera in America, Decem- ber 30, as Leonora in "Fidelio." Thalberg's farewell took place Jan. 2, 1858.
B. Ulmann commenced a season of Italian opera Feb. 28, with "I Puritani," with this cast:
Elvira .... Anna de La Grange
Arthur Talbot Tiberini
Sir George .... Karl Formes Sir Brunno Baratini
Sir Richard Gassier
Henrietta Mme. Morra
Walter Walton Dubreuil
On Feb. 24 "Don Giovanni" was sung, and three orchestras were presented. The one on the right side of the stage played "La Gavote," while on the left another orchestra played "The Lander," and the regular orchestra executed "The Minuet;" the three different melodies composed in three different movements and played by the three orchestras at the same time. March i " Otello " was given for the first time here. Anna de La Grange sang Desdemona, Tiberini was the Otello, Labocetta, Roderigo; Gassier as lago ; and Karl Formes as Elmero. " The Huguenots " was presented for the first time here March 8, and the cast was :
Valentina . . . Anna de La Grange
Marguerita Siedenburg
II Conte Di San Bris . . . Gassier II Conte De Nevers . . . Taffanelli
Urbana Elena d'Angri
Raoul Tiberini
Marcel Formes
The performance commenced at 7.30. This opera was given once before in New York, at the Astor Place Opera House, in 1850, by the Havana Opera company, under the direction of Marty, when Salvi, StefEanone, and Bosio sang the principal parts.
Karl Formes took a benefit March 26, and made his last appear- ance but one this season. The great basso appeared as Marcel, in "The Huguenots." For the matinee, March 27, Karl Formes and Mme, Johannsen appeared in "Martha." Formes was a superb artist in every respect. He made many enemies among the Italians, who conspired and intrigued against him, but in vain. He was supported by the Germans and opera goers of all nations,
VOL. II. — 3
34 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE L'Sss
and was a great favorite with the native portion of the opera audi- ence. " Leonora," a new American opera, by William Henry Fry, was produced for the first time March 29, De La Grange as Leo- nora, D'Angri as Tiberini, Rocco as Gassier, and Sig. Baratini were the principals. The opera was in the repertoire of the Seguins, who sang it in Philadelphia in 1845. "Leonora" was not altered from what it was in old times, except that it was trans- lated into Italian and a new air introduced for Elena d'Angri and a new duet for her and Sig. Tiberini. The casts of characters here and at the original representation were as follows :
Philadelphia, 1845.
Valdo Peter Richings
Mantalvo Edward Seguin
Alferez Mr. Brunton .
Julio Mr. Frazer . .
Leonora Mrs. Seguin .
Mariana Miss I nee .
New York, 1858.
. . . Sig. Rocco . . . Sig. Gassier . . . Sig. Baratini . . . Sig. Tiberini Mme. de La Grange . . Mme. d'Angri
The season closed April i, with the tenth performance of "The Huguenots." From the opening night over seventy performances took place, and several new operas were produced in grand style. "The Huguenots," "Robert le Diable," and "Don Giovanni" saved the season.
The first dal masque was given here April 12, under the direction of Bernard Ulmann. The orchestra consisted of one hundred and thirty performers directed by Musard. The rules were that ladies must be masked, and not admitted unless accompanied by a gentle- man not masked. The ladies could wear fancy costumes, or domi- nos. Gentlemen could appear in fancy costumes or plain clothes, as they chose. The price of admission was 50 cts., reserved seats so cts. extra. In concert Juliana May made her first appearance April 26. Carl Anschutz and M. Musard were^'the conductors. The Associated Artists began a summer season May 31. They consisted of Amodio, Brignoli, Gassier, Dubreuil, and Max Maretzek, conductor. " Sappho " was sung for the first time at this house June 21, with Gazzaniga, Adelaide Phillips, Brignoli, and Gassier in the cast. The opera was first produced in this city at Castle Garden, for the benefit of Signorina Tedesco. The season closed June 26, but the house continued open one week longer, when several of the artists took benefits. Theo. Moss had a benefit June 29, and a host of volunteers appeared, including Matilda Heron, as Medea.
The eleventh annual benefit of the American Dramatic Fund took place Aug. 2, and the bill was " The Rivals. " Sir Anthony Absolute, Mark Smith; Captain Absolute, George Jordan; Mrs. Malaprop, Mrs. Vernon; Bob Acres, T. B. Johnston; Sir Lucius
18583
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
35
O'Trigger, George Boniface; Lydia Languish, Mary Gannon. A dance by Ben Yates ; a selection from " Richelieu " with Edwin Booth as the Cardinal; a selection from "The Love Chase," cast thus:
Widow Green . Mrs. H. P. Grattan
Constance Jane Coombs
Lydia Amelia Parker
Phebe Miss Francis
This was followed by a pageant, by John Brougham, entitled "Shakespeare's Dream": J. Prior as Chronas, H. Ryner as Genius. In the tableau many prominent professionals appeared. "The Review, or The Wags of Windsor," came next with this cast:
Sir William Fondlove . . S. W. Glenn
Wildrake C. Wheatleigh
Master Waller Hamilton
Trueworth .... J. W. Collier
Deputy Bill . . Looney McTwotter Caleb Quotem Grace Gaylove
W. R. Blake
. Brougham
. C. Walcot
Ada Clifton
John Lump John Sefton
Capt. Beaugard .... Jas. Dunn
Dobbs Lingard
Lucy Mrs. John Sefton
This was John Sefton' s first appearance in five years. "A Pleasant Neighbor " was also acted, with Cranshawe as Sir George Howard, Miss A. Cushman as Lady Howard, Fanny Herring as Nancy Strop, Geo. L. Fox as Christopher Strop, and Bruce as Thomas. " The Dumb Girl of Genoa " closed the entertainment :
Strappado F. Watkins
Justin W. Taylor
Moco H. Jordan
Count Corvosie Duncan
Desperetto E. F. Taylor
Julietta Julia TurnbuU
Max Maretzek began a season of opera Aug. 30 with "La Som- nambula " :
Amina Pepita Gassier
Lisa Goldoni
Count Rudolfo Gassier
Elvino Perring
Teresa Avogadro
The conductors were Angelo Torriani and Maretzek. This was the first appearance in America of Pepita Gassier. Sept. 3 " Rigoletto " was sung, with the first appearance in New York of Sig. Steffani, as the Duke. Sig. Garibaldi also made his New York debut singing Sparafucile. Adelaide Phillips appeared as Magdalen. Oct. 4 "La Traviata" was sung, and was the first appearance of Sig. Striglia. The annual benefit for the Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum of this city occurred afternoon and even- ing Oct. 14, under the direction of John Brougham. The pro- gramme was: Matinee — "Swiss Swains" by the Wren Juvenile comedians, followed by "A Morning Call," in which Geo. C. Boniface and Mme. Ponisi had the principal r61es ; after this came a musical entertainment, in which Mme. Lovarney sang, Ed.
36
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1858
Mollenhauer executed a violin solo, Wood's Minstrels appeared, and James E. Dunn sang, the bill concluding with "A Conjugal Lesson," by A. W. Young and Mrs. W. G. Jones. In the evening, "A Pretty Piece of Business," introducing Chas. Walcot, John Brougham, Amelia Parker, Mrs. H. Bland, and Miss Miller. This was followed by Herr Cline on the tight-rope; duet by Walter Ralyea and Rosita Goldoni; "The Old Guard," with Mr. and Mrs. Mark Smith and Mr. Briggs in the cast; Mme. Lovarney sang "Kathleen Mavourneen;" the farce, "Sketches in India," by Geo. L. Fox, James Lingard, T. S. Cline, John Moore, Bruc- ciani, Mrs. H. Moore, Fanny Herring, and Mrs. Seymour; comic song by Little Fred Wren, the programme concluding with " The Irish Tutor," by J. Seymour, Bellamy, White, Mrs. Seymour, and Annie White.
B. Ulmann began a season of Italian opera Oct. 20, with the American debut of Piccolomini ; also Sig. Muzio, musical director. "La Traviata" was the initial performance, Piccolomini making her debut as Violetta. Senorita Soto, danseuse, appeared in the ballroom scene. The Academy was crowded to suffocation, and the receipts were four thousand dollars. Piccolomini took the house by storm ; she was petite, not absolutely handsome, but pretty, had a pair of dancing eyes, a charming naiveti of manner, a great talent for dramatic action of the most effective character, and a pure soprano voice, not very powerful, but sympathetic and sweet. On Oct. 27 Piccolomini and Karl Formes appeared as Marie and Sergeant Sulpizio, in "The Daughter of the Regiment; " Nov. 8, "Don Giovanni," with Gazzaniga as Donna Anna, Mile. Ghioni (her first appearance in America) as Donna Elvira, Piccolo- mini as Zerlina, and Karl Formes as Leporello. Mme. Laborde made her American debut Nov. 13, as Norma, Mile. Ghioni acting Adalgisa. The comic opera, "La Serva Padrona" ("The Domi- neering Housemaid "), with Piccolomini as the petulant housemaid, was sung on the same date. " Le Nozze di Figaro " was first sung in America Nov. 23. The English version of this opera was given in New Orleans, September 1836, with Charlotte Cushman as the Countess. This opera was also heard about the same time at the old National Theatre, Leonard and Church streets. The cast on the present occasion at the Academy was :
Susanna The Countess Cherubun . Marcelline . Don Curzio
. Piccolomini Mme. Ghioni Mme. Berkel . Mme. Mora Sig. Baratini
Figaro Herr Formes
The Count .... Sig. Florenza
Bartolo Weinlich
Don Basilic Mullet
^^ Gazzaniga took a benefit and her farewell Nov. 26 and 27. "Robert le Diable" was sung, with Laborde and Gazzaniga as
»8S9ll
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
37
Isabella and Alice, Nov. 26, and " II Trovatore " Nov. 27, Picco- lomini as Leonora; also the second act of "La Somnambula," Laborde's first appearance as Amina. Mile. Poinsot made her American debut Dec. 3 as Valentine in " The Huguenots. " The season closed Dec. 8.
A mammoth series of entertainments took place Dec. 18-21, 22, in aid of the Mount Vernon Association for the Preservation of Washington's Home, composed of dramatic performances, operatic concerts, tableau vivants, a ball, and concert d la Musard. Prob- ably one of the greatest dramatic entertainments ever given in this country was that of Dec. 18, when the attraction was "Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady": Wayne Olwine as Ruy Gomez, John Moore as Marquis de Santa Cruz, Ada Clifton as Charles II., Lawson as Pedro, James Ward as Guzman, Fanny Morant as the Duchess, and Mrs. H. Moore as the Duenna, followed by "Medea": Mrs. J. H. Allen as Creusa, Mrs. H. P. Grattan as lanthe, J. H. Allen as Jason, H. Howard as Creen, J. J. Prior as Orpheus, Viola and Adele Plunkett as Lycaon and Melanthus. This was succeeded by a musical tnilange, in which Pauline Col- son, Lucy Escott, Mme. Caradori and Arthur Napoleon appeared. "The Maid With the Milking Pail" followed, with Agnes Robert- son as Milly, W. Reynolds as Algernon, Whiting as Lord Phil- ander, Sloan as Diccon. " A Morning Call " came next, and introduced, for the first time in this city for six years, Catharine Sinclair Forrest, as Mrs. Chillington. Henry Sedley also made his first appearance in New York, acting Sir Edward Ardent. Then came John Brougham's burlesque of "Columbus," with additional lines appropriate to the occasion. After this came Brougham's "A Decided Case":
Capt. Dudley . . . Lester Wallack
Percival Levere
Mrs. St. Leger . . . Mrs. Reeves
Stubbs John Sloan
Lady Angela . . . Mrs. John Hoey
The Campbell Minstrels concluded the entertainment. On Tues- day, Dec. 21, the second day of the festival, a dress ball was given. Mons. Musard, with his orchestra, made his first appear- ance in America as conductor of a ball. On Wednesday, Dec. 22, the third and last day of the festival, a concert was given under the direction of Mons. Musard and Carl Bergmann.
Ulmann commenced a series of six performances of Italian opera Jan. 6, 1859, when "Martha" was given Jan. 7, with Brignoli, Laborde, and Formes in the cast; Jan. 8, "Don Giovanni," Picco- lomini as Zerlina, Poinsot as Donna Anna, and Ghioni as Elvira. "La Zingara" ("The Bohemian Girl") Jan. 10. " Martha" and " La Serva Padrona " (matinee), and evening, concert and oratorio of "The Creation." A version of "The Bohemian^Girl" was first
38
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cx8S9
given at Her Majesty's Theatre, London, February, 1857. The casts in London and at the Academy, this city, were as follows:
Arline . . . Thaddeus . . Count Arnheim Devilshoot Gypsy Queen .
London. New York, 1859.
Piccolomini Piccolomini
. Guiglini Brignoli
Belletti Florenza
. Vialetti Coletti
Lannier Ghioni
In July the " Gypsy Queen " was sung by Alboni. The opera was originally produced at Drury Lane Theatre, London, in 1843, when Alfred Bunn was the manager. Piccolomini announced her farewell July 13, in "La Traviata," when Brignoli and Piccolomini appeared for the first time together in this opera. The season closed Jan. 15, but Piccolomini gave a performance of Norina in "Don Pasquale," matinee Feb. 12, stopping over in New York, en route for another city. March 7 a concert was given for the benefit of George F. Bristow. J. B. Brown took a benefit March ri, when he recited several pieces and appeared in scenes, assisted by Victoria Randolph, her first appearance in public. Prof. M. Colburn and a lady from private life, Mrs. Dr. J. J. O'Brien, gave gems from the opera. Geo. F. Bristow presided at the piano.
Gazzaniga reappeared April 11, as Violetta in "La Traviata." Mile. Caroline Alimo made her American d6but April 22 as Norma.
An amateur performance was given April 28, for the benefit of the American Dramatic Fund. It was an extraordinary theatrical performance, the scheme of which originated with John Brougham.
In the programme was a new play by Brougham and Goodrich, called "The Dark Hour Before the Dawn," cast as follows:
Alfred De Sonneville C. P. Rosenberg Vicomte De Rosierre • . J. S. Keese
Laforce Alfred Carroll
Baron De Trop . . . . E. M. Curtis
Cecile Miss Elliott
Joseph . . . . J. H. Wainwright Papa Chauve .... Jas. CafEerty
There were also in the cast J. A. Page, J. Alstyn, Marsh, Dris- coU, Remsen, F. Bellew, Norton, Browne, and Addison. There were operatic selections, and a recitation by W. Taylor. Mme. La Comtesse Ferussac made her first and only appearance June 14, in grand opera, for the benefit of the Woman's Hospital Associa- tion. " I Puritani " was presented, with La Comtesse as Elvira, Brignoli as Antonio, Amodio as Riccardo, Sig. Junca as Geofgi, and Barili as the Gouverneur. One of the greatest drawbacks to the success of the Academy was the free stockholder seats. One share entitled the owner to one seat, and those who owned four shares or more were entitled to a box. For thirty years, almost without exception, the building was rented only upon condition
I8S9D THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC 39
that the seats and boxes owned by the stockholders should belong to them for every performance. During the years from 1854 until 1 86 1 the rent demanded was 1^24,000 a year, to which must be added the cost of losing most of the best boxes and the best seats.
The next operatic season opened Sept. 10, 1859, with the nucleus of three Italian Opera companies, among whom were Mme. Gassier, Mme. Adelaide Cortes, Mme. Strakosch, Sig. Brignoli, Sig. Stefani, Sig. Amodio, and Sig. Junca. Max Maretzek was_ the director, and B. Ulmann general superintendent. "II Poliuto, or The Martyrs " was the opening opera, with Cortesi and Brignoli in the leading rSles. Mme. Gassier appeared Sept. 14 in "La Somnambula;" Brignoli, Elvino; Amodio, the Count. "Norma" was sung Sept. 15, Adelaide Cortesi in the title r61e. "Barber of Seville," Sept. 16, with Mme. Gassier, Rocco, Amodio, and Brignoli in the cast. In the lesson scene, Mme. Gassier sang the Venzane Waltz, also, with Sig. Gassier, a Spanish duet ; " Lucia di Lammermoor," matinee, Sept. 17, with Gassier in title r61e, Stefani as Edgardo, and Sig. Gassier as Ashton. This was fol- lowed by the second act of "Norma," with Cortesi, Strakosch, and Stefani in the cast. The last act of "II Trovatore," with Cortesi as Leonora, Brignoli and Amodio in the cast, closed the perform- ance. "II Poliuto" was sung Sept. 19, Brignoli, Cortesi, and Amodio in the principal r61es. "II Trovatore," Sept. 21, with Cortesi as Leonora, for the first time in America; "I Puritan i," Sept, 22, with Mme. Gassier as Elvira (first time in America), Brignoli as Arturo, Amodio as Riccardo; "Traviata," Sept. 23, Cortesi as Violetta ; Brignoli, Alfredo ; Amodio, Germont ; " Lucia di Lammermoor," matinee, Sept. 24. The fourth act of "II Tro- vatore," the fifth act "Barber of Seville," Mme. and Sig. Gassier as Rosina and Figaro, the duet from the second act of " I Puri- tani," Amodio as Riccardo, Sig. Junca as Georgio. Arthur Napo- leon, pianist, appeared, for the first time in this house. One dollar was the admission fee to all parts of the house. " II Tro- vatore" was sung Sept. 26; "Ernani," Sept. 28, Mme. Gassier as Elvira, Stefani as Ernani, and Amodio as Carlos. "Don Gio- vanni," Sept. 30, Cortesi as Anna; Mme. Strakosch as Elvira; Brignoli, Ottavio; and Sig. Mueller, Commandatore. "Ernani" was sung matinee, Oct. i, also third act of "II Poliuto," scenes from "The Barber of Seville," and a concert by Mr. Mills, the pianist, and others.
The regular operatic season opened Oct. 26, 1859, with "II Poliuto" cast thus: Pauline, Mme. Gazzaniga; Severus, Amodio; Nearous, Rubio; Polyutus, Brignoli; Felix, Shelo; Calisthenes, Mueller.
"La Traviata" was sung with Mile. Speranza as Violetta; Brig- noli, Alfredo; Amodio, Germont; Oct. 27, "Rigoletto;" Oct. 28,
40 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1859
Mme. Gazzaniga sang Pauline in "II Poliuto;" matinee, Oct. 29, also the first act of " La Traviata," with Adelaide Speranza in the chief r61e, and the fourth act of "Rigoletto," with Colson, Gaz- zaniga, and Speranza, and Ferri in the cast. " Maria de Rohan " was sung Oct. 31, with Gazzaniga in the title r61e for the first time in America. Sig. Beaucarde, tenor, made his American d^but Nov. 2, as Fernando in "La Favor ita," with Gazzaniga as Leonora, Amodio as Alphonso. " Lucrezia Borgia " was sung Nov. 4, with Beaucarde as Genaro, and Gazzaniga as Lucrezia. For the matinee, Nov. $, the fourth act of " La Favorita " was given with Gazzaniga as Leonora. The operetta "Never Judge by Appear- ances" was given Nov. 6, when Mr. and Mrs. Henry Dayton appeared, also "Rigoletto." "Sicilian Vespers" was sung Nov. 7, for the first time in America; Elena, Mme. Colson; Governor, Ferri; Arrigo, Brignoli; Procida, Junca.
Mme. Albertine made her American d^but Nov. 17, as Leonora in "II Trovatore," with Beaucarde as Manrico. For the matinee, Nov. 19, Albertine, Colson, and Gazzaniga, the three/irime donne, appeared in "Sicilian Vespers," and the fourth act of "La Tra- viata" was given. "The Magic Flute," first heard in America Nov. 21, with Queen of the Night, Mme. Colson; Papagena, Mme. Strakosch; Pamina, Gazzaniga. On Thanksgiving matinee, Nov. 24, Mme. Anna Bishop was heard in "Tancredi," and also sang Casta Diva from " Norma. " Mme. Albertine appeared as Leonora in " II Trovatore. " Adelina Patti sang Lucia in " Lucia di Lam- mermoor," with Brignoli as Edgardo; Patti also sang Lucia at matinee, Nov. 26, Amina in "La Somnambula," Dec. i. "The Huguenots" was sung Dec. 2, and the season closed Dec. 3, with Patti as Amina in " La Somnambula. " The house reopened Dec. 21, with "Lucia di Lammermoor," and "Ernani," Dec. 26; Adelina Patti sang Zerlina, Dec. 27, in "Don Giovanni," and for her farewell benefit, Dec. 29, was heard in "La Somnambula;" the first act of " La Favorita " was also sung, and the second act of " Lucrezia Borgia, " with Susini as the Duke, Gazzaniga as Lucrezia Borgia. The season closed Dec. 30 with "Don Giovanni," Gaz- zaniga as Donna Anna and Patti as Zerlina.
Adelina Patti was born at Madrid, Spain, on Feb. 19, 1843. The certificate of her baptism has been discovered, and has been published by the Spanish papers. It is dated April 8, 1843, and certifies that on that day Don Jose Losada, vicar of the Parish of Saint Louis, Madrid, baptized a child born in Fuencarral Street, in the same city, daughter of Salvator Patti, professor of music, a native of Catania, in Sicily, and of Caterina Patti, nh Chiesa, a native of Rome. The child's godparents gave her the name of Adele Jeanne Marie. The family settled in New York when Adelina was about a year old, which gave rise to the belief that
1860] THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC 4 1
she is a native of this city. The father of Patti, Salvator Patti, was a tenor of repute in Italy. Probably Patti has received a larger salary than any living person. She was engaged for a tour of eight months in America, commencing in September, 1871, and was to sing either at concerts, in opera, or in oratorio one hundred times, receiving for each performance ;£400, or ;£40,ooo for eight months, exclusive of all the travelling expenses of her husband and suite, to be paid by Strakosch, who was to deposit with the Rothschilds in Paris ;£20,ooo as a guarantee.
Nilsson received ^1,000 a night in England, and when she came to America this was increased to ;?i,Soo a night. Mile. Tietjens (in America in 1875) had $800 a night guaranteed her, besides half the receipts over a certain sum. Mme. Patti, during her last visit to this country, was paid $5,000 a night, payable in advance at noon on the day she sang.
"II Poliuto" was sung Sept. 5, i860, with Cortesi as Paolina, Musiani as Polyutus, and Amodio as Severus.
" Lucia " was given Sept. 6, with Patti and Musiani ; " II Tro- vatore," Sept. 7, with Cortesi, Mme. Strakosch, Musiani, and Amodio, and at a matinee on Sept. 8, " La Somnambula " was re- peated. " II Barbiere " was sung Sept. 10, with Patti as Rosina, Brignoli as Count Almaviva, E. Barili as Figaro, Susini as Dr. Bartolo, and Mme. Fischer as Bertha ; " II Trovatore, " Sept. 1 1 ; "I Puritani," Sept. 12, with Patti as Elvira; Brignoli, Arturo; Amodio, Riccardo; and Susini, Georgio. Owing to a difificulty with Cortesi, she did not appear Sept. 1 3, in " La Traviata, " but withdrew, and, organizing a Cortesi company, appeared at Niblo's Garden. "Martha" was sung Sept. 14; "Norma," Sept. 15, with Parodi taking Cortesi's position. Mme. Inez Fabbri appeared Sept. 17, in "Lucrezia Borgia;" "Sicilian Vespers" was heard Sept. ig, with Pauline Colson (first appearance) as Princess Elena, Sig. Stigelli (first appearance) as Arrigo, Sig. Ferri as Governor, and M. Genebrel (first appearance) as John of Procida. Barili died in Philadelphia, 1885.
B. Ulmann opened a season Oct. 24, when Karl Formes reap- peared as Bertram in " Robert le Diable," with Fabbri as Alice, and Stigelli as Robert. " Martha " was sung Oct. 26, with Fabbri as Lady Henrietta, and Mme. Martini D'Ormy as Nancy. "Les Huguenots " was heard Oct. 29, by Mme. Fabbri, Mme. Maretzek, Mme. Fanny Natalie, and Signors Stigelli, Formes, Abelli, and Weinlich. Karl Formes sang Caspar in "Der Freischiitz," Oct. 31. The season closed Nov. i, with " Martha. " Another season commenced Nov. 26, with Sig. Stefani, tenor, Sig. Florenza, and Mme. Anna Bishop added to the troupe. " La Juive " was given. Fabbri was La Juive, Mme. Anna Bishop the princess Eudaxia, Sig. Stigelli, Eleazar, and Herr Formes the Cardinal. It was
42 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C'sei
repeated Nov. 28 and 30, Dec. i and 3, and was announced for the 7th, but on the latter day Mr. Ulmann published a card, announc- ing that, through want of public support, he was compelled to give up the management. Mme. Fabbri, Sig. Stigelli, and Herr Formes appeared Dec. 7 in "Masaniello," followed by "Stradella," Dec. 8, and "The Child of the Regiment," Dec. 12, when the theatre was closed. For the benefit of Karl Formes, Jan. i, 1861, "Martha" was sung, with Bertha Johannsen (first time in four years) as Lady Henrietta; Jan. 11, "La Juive" was heard for Stigelli's benefit.
Another season of Italian opera began Jan. 21, under the man- agement of the Associated Artists. Muzio was the conductor, Jacob Grau, director, and D. de Vivo, manager. The company included Pauline Colson, Isabella Hinckley, Mile. Elena, a dgbu tante, Adelaide Phillips, and Signori Brignoli, Ferri, Susini, Stefani, Ippolito, and Coletti. Their first production was "II Giuramento. "
Elgira Pauline Colson
Viscardo Signor Brignoli
[ Bianca .... Adelaide Phillips Manfredi Signor Ferri
Miss Hinckley made her debut Jan. 23, in "Lucia." Miss Hinckley was married to Sig. Susini, and gave birth to a daughter June 2, 1862. Her confinement, however, was followed by puer- peral fever, which, turning to typhoid, terminated fatally July 6, 1862. This lady sang twice at Court at The Hague, and received a most flattering mark of attention from Her Majesty the Queen of Holland, who took her by the hand, complimented her highly upon her voice, and shortly after presented her with a handsome bracelet. " II Trovatore " was given Jan. 29, with Miss Hinckley as Leonora and Miss Phillips as Azucena. Jan. 31, Signorina Elena made her d^but as Lucrezia Borgia. Feb. 2, the Philharmonic Society gave another concert. " II Barbiere " was sung Feb. 4, and "Martha," Feb. 6. Feb. 11, Verdi's opera, "Un Ballo in Mas- chera " was given for the first time in America, and with this cast :
Amelia Pauline Colson
Oscar Isabella Hinckley
Ulrica .... Adelaide Phillips
Riccardo Signor Brignoli
Renarto Signor Ferri
It was repeated Feb. 13, 16, 18, 20, when President-elect Lin- coln attended, and Feb. 22 and 25. Clara Louise Kellogg made her public operatic d6but in New York, Feb. 27, as Gilda in "Rigoletto." "Don Giovanni" was sung March i. Miss Kel- logg again appeared as Gilda, March 2 ; " Un Ballo " was repeated March 4-8; "II Poliuto," March 8. Miss Kellogg first essayed the r6le of Linda in "Linda di Chamounix," matinde, March 9. This closed the season. " Un Ballo in Maschera " had a greater
iseo
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
43
success than any opera since " II Trovatore. " While in the height of its popularity it was withdrawn in order to permit Miss Kellogg to make her ddbut in "Rigoletto," Stigelli making his rentr^e in the tenor part.
Clara Louise Kellogg began her professional career as a concert singer, and soon acquired the highest position in opera and in oratorio. As a singer she did not astonish you — she delighted you. She was so natural, so sympathetic in voice and manner, so nearly faultless in method, and exquisitely happy in imparting the sentiment of a song, or in illustrating the dramatic purport of a scene.
The thirteenth annual benefit of the American Dramatic Fund took place March 21, when "Macbeth" was acted with this phe- nomenal cast :
Macbeth Edwin Booth
Macduff Charles Fisher
Duncan .... C. Kemble Mason
Malcolm O. B. Collins
Banquo A. W. Fenno
Lenox T. Wemyss
Rosse T. Hamblin, Jr.
Seward Haviland
Seton Jeffries
Physician Bridgman
First Officer Mr. Wine
Second Officer H. Daly
First Murderer . . J. C. Williamson
Second Murderer Cook
Bleeding Soldier . . F. L. Rodgers First Apparition . . Mr. Thompson
Donalbain Miss Cook
Fleance Miss Douglas
Hecate George Rea
Lady Macbeth . . Charlotte Cushman First Singing Witch Mme. Anna Bishop Second Singing Witch . Mrs. Reeves Gentlewoman .... Mrs. France First Witch .... Harry Pearson Second Witch .... John Sefton Third Witch . . . James W. Lingard
After the tragedy Mme. Anna Bishop sang " The Flag of Our Union," words by Gen. G. P. Morris. L. J. Vincent was stage manager. The receipts were $2,040, and netted to the Fund abbut ;$i,700, — the largest benefit the Fund had ever received.
The Associated Operatic Artists returned April 8, for one week. "Moses in Egypt" was sung April 14, with Hinckley, Phillips, Stigelli, Ferri, and Susini in the cast. Mme. Anna Bishop took a benefit April 19, when " The Bohemian Girl " was given. Mons. and Mme. Blondin appeared, for the last time in America, April 20, Philharmonic concert; Thursday, April 25, benefit of Harry Pearson, prior to his departure for the war, when "Henry IV." was played by Messrs. Conway, Harkins, Hall, Chester, Martin, Andrews, and Pearson, and the Misses Beck, Taylor, Ellis, Gold- ing, and Le Brun. May 17, Military Festival of the First German Rifle Regiment; May 25, benefit of the Regiment Fund of the U. S. Guard; July 4, dramatic entertainments by Mr, and Mrs. Barney Williams, Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Florence, and a host of as- sistants. This was the first time the Florences and the Williamses appeared together. The bill was "Customs of the Country," "The Irish Tiger," and "Irish Lion." Owen S. Fawcett made his first
44 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Ci86a
appearance in New York, on this occasion as Mr. Wadd, in " The Irish Lion."
B. Ulmann assumed the management of this house Sept. i6, 1861, when Professor Herrmann, the prestidigitateuf, made his American debut. Theo. Thomas' Italian Opera Orchestra was also engaged. "Un Ballo in Maschera" was given Oct. 17-21, and matinee, Oct. 26, with Miss Kellogg, Miss Hinckley, Mme. Strakosch, and Signori Brignoli, Mancusi, Dubreuil, and Barili, in the cast, and Signor Muzio as director; Oct. 28, the opera, "Le Noces de Jeannette" (Jeannette's Marriage) was sung for the first time in New York; also Donizetti's opera, "Betly." The prin- cipal characters in " Betly " were sustained by Miss Hinckley and Signori Brignoli and Susini. " Les Noces de Jeannette " was sung in French, Miss Kellogg enacting the r61e of the heroine, sup- ported by Dubreuil, Elena, and Mazzini. Oct. 31, a grand union concert was given by the Mesdames Johannsen and Von Berkel, Messrs. Quint, Linsheim, Mueller, and Weinlich, and the members of the Harmonic Society. Nov. i, a concert was given by Carlotta Patti, Madame Strakosch, Signori Macaferri, Barili, Adam Tou- hay, and Theodore Thomas, in aid of the families of the volunteers. Dec. 7, the Twenty-second Regiment band concert took place, with Madame Johannsen, Madame Vollandt, S. C. Campbell, J. R. Thomas, Carl Berghman, Robert Goldbeck, and Messrs. Saul, Dietz, Gewait, and Deusch as the additional artists.
Geo. L. Fox and James W. Lingard leased this house and opened Dec. 9, with William Hanlon in his aerial act, entitled "Zampillaerostation," also a pantomime troupe. A short season of Italian opera was opened Jan. 15, 1862, under the management of Jacob Grau. The company was made up as follows : Miss Kellogg, Miss Hinckley, Madame Strakosch, Signori Brignoli, Manchesi, and Barili. The operas given were as follow: Jan. 15, "La Traviata;" Jan. 17, "Un Ballo in Maschera." Max Maret- zek, having returned from Havana, joined forces with Mr. Grau, and a two weeks' season commenced under their joint manage- ment, Jan. 29, with Miss Kellogg, Madame Strakosch, and Brig- noli, Susini, and Barili in "Martha." Jan. 31, "II Trovatore;" Feb. 3, was the dibut of Signor Ippolita as Germont, in " La Traviata;" Feb. 5, "Un Ballo in Maschera;" Feb. 7, "Linda di Chamounix;" Feb. 10, "La Somnambula;" Feb. 15, matinee, "Martha;" Feb. 21, military festival of the Regiment des Enfants Perdu ; Feb. 24, Prof. Adrien, the magician ; Feb. 28, Kellogg in "Lucia," and L. M. Gottschalk, the pianist; matinee, Feb. 28, " Betly " and Gottschalk.
Mr. Grau commenced another season March 19, with" Un Ballo in Maschera;" March 20, "Masaniello," with Isabella Hinckley as Elvira, Isabella Cubas as Fenella, Susini as Pietro, Brignoli as
1862] THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC 45
Masaniello, and Barili as Bonello; March 21, "Martha;" March 22 (matinee) and March 24, "Masaniello;" March 26, Mme. de Lussan made her debut in "La Favorita". Her voice was a pure soprano, reaching from G to C in alt. March 28, Mme. Elena d'Angri appeared as Rosina, in "II Barbiere;" March 29, "Linda;" April 10, the Academy was given up to a reception to the officers of the frigates Cumberland and Congress, and on the three first nights of the following week the Brothers Lubin ap- peared in magical stances. "
Grau returned with his company April 21. Sig. Tombesi (tenor) sang the Duke in "Rigoletto." Kellogg was Gilda; D'Angri, Magdalen; Barili, Sparafucile; and Ferri, Rigoletto; April 23, "La Figlia del Reggimento," with Kellogg as Marie; April 25, D'Angri as Leonora in "La Favorita."
Billy Birch and Ben Cotton's minstrels took a benefit here May 13. Emilie J. Boughton, a society lady, made her debut May 22, as Violetta, in " La Traviata. "
Mme. Comte commenced a new opera season June 1 1, at popular prices, singing "Lucrezia Borgia." Ulmann had a benefit June 18, when the season closed.
Mme. Herrmann made her debut as a pianist Oct. 23, on which occasion Carlotta Patti made her first appearance at this house. William Fleming, formerly manager of the Winter Garden, took a benefit here Sept. 8, 1862. The programme consisted of "The Soldier's Return," "The Maid of Croissy," "A Conjugal Lesson," "A Rough Diamond," and a concert. Among those participating were W. M. Fleming, John T. Raymond, Harry Pearson, J. R. Thomas, Miranda, Willie Pape, Dr. C. W. Beames, Ada Clifton, Evelyn Lyon, Mrs. L. Hill, George Christy's minstrels, Mile. Annetta Galetti, and a ballet company. On Sept. 22, James M. Nixon took this house for the purpose of introducing Carlotta Patti in opera. She appeared as Amina, in "La Somnambula," supported by Sig. Sbriglia as Elvino, Susini as the Count, and Fanny Stockton as Lisa, the other parts being sustained by Messrs. Mancusi and Ximenes, and Mme. Arogardo. Sept. 24, " La Somnambula" was repeated; "Lucia," with Carlotta Patti in the title r61e, and Brignoli as Edgardo ; " Lucia " was repeated at the matinee, Sept. 27, when Isabel Cubas and Ximenes appeared in ballet. Patti 's last appearance was in the opera of "I Puritani," Oct. 3.
Jacob Grau commenced a season of Italian opera Nov. 10, 1862, introducing Mile. Genevra Guerrabella as Violetta, in "La Tra- viata," supported by Sig. Amodip and Barili. This lady's right name is Genevieve Ward. She is the daughter of Samuel Ward of this city. In 1858 she went to Paris, where she made her first appearance on the stage, in April, 1859, ^s Elvira, in the opera of
46 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE L^m
"Don Giovanni." She married a Russian count, who soon grew weary of his wedded bliss and abandoned her; but, on her appeal to the Czar, the marriage was legalized, and the faithless husband was banished to Siberia. In 1862 she returned to America and travelled as a dramatic star. She made her debut at Booth's Theatre, in the fall of 1878, and played a successful engagement under Jarrett & Palmer's management.
Mme. Lorini, daughter of David Whiting, reappeared Nov. 14-17 in the title r61e of "Norma," Mile. Morensi as Adelgisa, Sig. Macaferri as Pollione, Susini as Oroveso. "La Traviata," an act of " Norma, " and " The Star Spangled Banner " were sung matinee, Nov. 22. There were present Mrs. President Lincoln and Mrs. McClellan. "Dinorah" had its first performance in this city, Nov. 24.
Dinorah (first appearance) Mile. Cordier
Corenti Signer Brignoli
Hunter Signer Susini
Hoel Signer Amodio
First Goatherd . . . Mile. Morensi Second Goatherd . . Fanny Stockton
" Dinorah " was repeated Nov. 26 and 28, Dec. i, 6, and 8 ; Nov. 27, "Lucrezia Borgia;" Dec. 3-5, "La Favorita;" Dec. 9, "Norma;" Dec. 10 and 14, "Un Ballo in Maschera;" Dec. 12, "Ernani," fourth act of "La Favorita," and shadow song from "Dinorah." The season closed on Dec. 15, with "I Puritani." Dec. 4, 16, 18, Mason Jones, an English lecturer, occupied the Academy. Dec. 22, a benefit was given to the child pianist, Teresa Carreno, when Madame d'Angri, W. Castle, S. C. Campbell, Theodore Thomas, Signor Abilla, and Mr. Eben assisted.
After having been redecorated and improved this house was re- opened Sept. 12, 1864, by Leonard Grover, for a season of German opera. The company was a strong one, numbering in all no fewer than one hundred persons, many of the principals being artists of eminence. Carl Anschutz was the conductor, and among the singers were Mme. Marie Frederici-Himmer, Mile. Marie Hollman from the Royal Opera House, Berlin, Mme. Bertha Johannsen, Mile. Sophie Dziuba, Mile. Pauline Canissa, and Mmes. Ernest La Roche and Pauline Berger; Herr Franz Himmer, Theo. Habelmann, Arnot Quinta, Isidore Lehman, from the Royal Opera House, Berlin; Heinrich Steinecke, Joseph Herrmann, Joseph Kreutzer, Anton Graff, Edouard Haimer, Zinsheim, Otto Lehman, and Alphonse Urchs, with Adoph Neuendorff as chorus master. The opening opera was "Faust," given thus: Faust, Signor Tomaro; Mephisto, Herr Herrmann; Valentine, Herr Steinecke; Wagner, Herr Graff; Marguerite, Mme. Frederici- Himmer; Siebel, Mme. Bertha Johannsen. Signor Tomaro was called upon at short notice to take the place of Herr Himmer, who was announced to appear as Faust, but who was suddenly attacked
1864^
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
47
with a severe illness. Sept. 14, "Martha" was sung by Mmes. Johannsen and Frederici-Himmer, and Herren Habelmann, Stein- ecke, Graff, and Otto Lehman. Sept. 16, "Der Freischiitz" was given, with Joseph WeinUch as Caspar ; and " Faust " was repeated at a matinee, Sept. 17, with the same gentleman as Mephisto. Sept. 19, Karl Fbrmes made his first appearance in opera in this city in six years. The opera was "Robert le Diable," and the cast was a notable one:
Bertram Karl Formes
Robert Herr Himmer
Raimbaud .... Herr Habelmann Albert! , Herr Haimer
Alice .... Mme. Johanna Rotter Isabella . . Mme. Bertha Johannsen Elena (first appearance in New York) Theresa Wood
"Faust" was repeated Sept. 21; "Martha" was sung Sept. 22, with Herr Formes as Plunkett. Sept. 23, Halevey's "La Juive" was heard, and at a matinee the following day, " Robert le Diable " was repeated. " La Juive " was again given Sept. 26. On the last night of the season, Sept. 27, Mile. Sophie Dziuba made her American debut as Zerlina, in "Don Juan," and Isidore Lehman also appeared, for the first time in this country, as Don Juan. Presentation concerts were given Sept. 28, 29, and 30, under the auspices of the Jewellers' Association, the artists being William Castle and S. C. Campbell, Signor Abella, Madame d'Angri, Fanny Stockton, and an orchestra under John P. Cook.
Karl Formes died at San Francisco, of pneumonia, Dec. 15, 1889. His full name was Charles John Formes, and he was born at Muhlheim, Germany, Aug. 7, 18 10. He received his early musical education in Cologne and Vienna, and sang in church choirs until 1841, when he attracted attention in Cologne as a concert singer. Soon afterwards he appeared in opera. In 1843 he became a member of the Mannheim Theatre company, and in 1844 he joined the opera in Vienna. Unguarded expressions of sympathy with revolutionary movements caused his sudden retire- ment, and in 1849, after an engagement in Hamburg, he formed the German Opera company, at the Drury Lane Theatre, London. In 1850 he became a member of the Italian Opera company at Covent Garden, and in the same year he sang in the Philhar- monic concerts. His last appearance on the stage was on Dec. 12 (three days prior to his death), in "The Barber of Seville," at San Francisco, where he had resided for fifteen years, teaching vocal music.
Max Maretzek's new Italian Opera company commenced a season Oct. 3, 1864. The following were the artists: Carlotti Carozzi- Zucchi, Elvira Brambilla, Laura Harris, Jenny Van Zandt (her first appearance in opera), Signora C. Morensi, Mile. Freda di Gebel, Adeline Motte (first appearance in opera), Fanny Stockton,
48 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1864
Bernardo Massimilliani, Guglielmo Lotti, J. Reichardt, Fernando Bellini, Francisco Pierrini, Susini, Amati Dubreuil, Joseph Wein- lich, and W. Mullen The opening opera was "II Trovatore," in which Carozzi-Zucchi made her first appearance in America as Leonora. Massimilliani made his first bow to an American audi- ence in the part of Manrico. Oct. 4, Signora Elvira Brambilla made her first appearance in America as Violetta in " La Traviata " Mile. Ernestine appeared in the ballet incidental to " La Traviata." " Lucrezia Borgia " was given Oct. 5, when Susini reappeared as Alfonso. A jewellers' presentation concert was given Oct. 6, Master Richard Croker, of Trinity Choir, appeared, and the Maret- zek company gave "Lucia di Lammermoor," Laura Harris as prima donna. "II Trovatore" was repeated Oct. 10, and Oct. 12 Mile. Frederica di Gebel made her d^but as Ulrica in " Un Ballo in Maschera;" Oct. 14, "Lucrezia Borgia;" Oct. 18, matinde, "La Traviata;" evening. Jewellers' Association concert. Oct. 17-19- 26, Clara Louise Kellogg reappeared as Marguerita in "Faust." " Un Ballo " was again given Oct. 18, and on Oct. 20 representa- tives from the various places of amusement in town gave a benefit to the Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum. Oct. 21, "II Poliuto;" Oct. 22, jewellers' presentation concert; Oct. 24, "Martha," with Kellogg and Morensi; Oct. 25 and 28, "II Poliuto;" Oct. 31, "II Trovatore." Nov. 2, "Don Giovanni" with this cast:
Doana Anna Zucchi I Don Giovanni Bellini
Donna Elvira Kellogg Leporello ....... Susini
Zerlina Morensi Commendatore .... Weinlich
Don Ottavio Lotti | Massetto Dubreuil
Nov. 4, Jenny Van Zandt made her operatic debut as Gilda in "Rigoletto." Maretzek closed the season Nov. 5.
John B. Gough, the temperance lecturer, appeared here Nov. 10, followed by Maretzek, who commenced another season Nov. 14, with "II Poliuto;" Nov. 15, "Linda di Chamounix;" Nov. 16, "Lucrezia Borgia;" Nov. 17, James W. Lingard of the New Bowery Theatre took a benefit, when " The Wept of the Wish-ton- Wish," "Sketches in India," and Bryant's Minstrels formed the programme; Nov. 18-21, "Don Giovanni;" Nov. 22, "Rigoletto;" Nov. 23, "Martha." Thanksgiving night, Nov. 24, a dramatic performance, consisting of "All That Glitters is not Gold" — Lawrence P. Barrett (his first appearance in fifteen months) as Stephen Plum, Thos. E. Morris as Jasper Plum, W. R. Floyd as Toby Twinkle, J. S. Wright, J. Whiting, J. C. Williamson, Madelaine Henriques, Mrs. W. R. Floyd, and Mrs. France in the cast— and "Handy Andy" were acted; Nov. 25, Maretzek's com- pany presented, for the first time in America, Donizetti's opera of "Don Sebastian," and with this cast:
18643
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
49
Zaida . . . Signora Carozzi-Zucchi Sebastian . . . Sig. Massimilliani
Camoeno Sig. Bellini
Giovanni Sig. Susini
Danseuse Miles. Ernestine and Auriol
Abadialos . Don Selim Don Antonio Don Luigi Don Enrico
Sig. Lorini . Sig. MuUer Sig. Reichardt . . Ximenes . Sig. Lacion
Carl Bergmann was the conductor. The opera was repeated Nov. 28, 29, Dec. 2, 6, 9, 14, 17, 19, 24. Nov. 30, "Faust;" Dec. 5, "The Child of the Regiment;" Dec. 7, "II Poliuto."
Dec. 8, a matinde and evening benefit was given to Charles Peters, who had been disabled by being run over by a Third Avenue car. At the matinee, "London Assurance," was given with this cast:
Charles Courtley Sir Harcourt Courtley Dazzle . . . Mark Meddle Dolly Spanker Max Harkaway Cool . . .
Lester Wallack . C. Walcot Charles Fisher . G. L. Fox . W. Holston . J. G. Burnett W. H. Norton
James Harry Pearson
Martin W. R. Floyd
Isaacs C. T. Parsloe, Jr.
Lady Gay Spanker . Mrs. John Wood Grace Harkaway Madelaine Henriques Pert .... Mrs. Sedley Brown
In the evening, " The School for Scandal " was played, with this cast:
Joseph Surface . . J. Sir Peter Teazle . . Sir Oliver Surface . . Charles Surface . . .
Crabtree
Sir Benjamin Backbite
Moses
Trip
W. WaUack, Jr.
F. B. Conway
. Mark Smith J. K. Mortimer
J. W. Lingard B. T. Ringgold Harry Pearson
Edward Lamb
Careless . . Rowley . . , Snake ... Lady Teazle Mrs. Candour . Maria . . . Lady Sneerwell
. . J. E. Whiting . . G. F. Browne . . . Frank Rea . Mrs. F. B. Conway Mrs. George Farren Mrs. C. M. Walcot, Jr. Mrs. Emma Skerrett
Nearly every theatre in New York and Brooklyn was represented, and no less than six managers and lessees of theatres performed in the plays presented, viz. : Mr. and Mrs. Conway, of the Park Theatre, Brooklyn; Mr. J. W. Lingard, of the New Bowery; Lester Wallack, of Wallack's Theatre; Mrs. John Wood, of the Olympic; and G. L. Fox, of the Old Bowery. The benefit realized a very handsome sum. Dec. 21, Auber's opera of "Fra Diavolo," which had always previously been given in English, was now rendered, for the first time in America, in Italian, and with this cast :
Zerlina Miss Kellogg
Pamela Mile. Morensi
Fra Diavolo .... Signor Lotti Lord Rochbourg . . . Sig. Bellini
Lorenzo Signor Lorini
Beppo Signor Dubreuil
Giacomo Signor Weinlich
Matheo Signor MuUer
It was repeated Dec. 23, 26, and 28.
A jewellers' presentation concert was given Dec. 24. Carozzi- Zucchi presented " Norma " for her benefit, Dec. 27. " Fra Dia- volo " was sung for the benefit of the French Benevolent society,
VOL. II. — 4
50 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE L^^^S
Dec. 29, and "Norma" was repeated on Dec. 30, the last night of the season. Feb. 2, 1865, Maretzek's company again returned
■■ '* Fra Dia- La La Forza Del Destino," for the first time in America, and thus cast:
Donna Leonora Signora Carozzi-Zucchi Preziosilla . . . Signora Morensi Don Alvaro . . . Sig. Massimilliani
Don Carlos Sig. Bellini
Abbot Sig. Susini
Militone Sig. Lorini
Marquis of Calatrava . Sig. Dubreuil
Trabucco Sig. Reichardt
Spanish Surgeon . . Sig. Ximenes Alcalde Sig. Muller
This opera was repeated Feb. 28, March 3, 6, 8, 10, 18, 1865. March 4, matinee, "Martha," evening, concert of pupils of National Con- servatory; March 11, matinee, "Ernani;" March 13, "Don Gio- vanni;" March 15, "Fra Diavolo;" March 16, "Norma;" March 17, "I Puritani;" March 20, "La Figlia del Reggimento," and fourth act of "Rigoletto;" March 21, last night of the season, "Don Sebastian," and March 23, matinee, and close of the season, "Fra Diavolo."
L. M. Gottschalk gave a matinee entertainment, April i ; April 1 1, Maretzek took a benefit, when " II Poliuto " was given, with selections from "La Forza." The beneficiary was presented with $7,000. The Theatrical Mechanical association had a matinee benefit April 12, and the companies of Wallack's, Winter Garden, Old and New Bowery, Barnum's, Olympic, Niblo's, Brooklyn Park, and Hooley's New York and Brooklyn Minstrels, and Theo- dore Moss, John McCul lough, the Dobson Brothers, and others, participated. The bill comprised " London Assurance, "" Shamus O'Brien," recitation, "Day After the Wedding," banjo duets and minstrel entertainments. A benefit was given April 12, for the soldiers and sailors, followed April 26 by Leonard Grover's German opera company, which in "Robert le Diable," "Faust," "Martha," "Fidelio," "The Magic Flute," "The Huguenots," closed May 8 with "La Juive." May 15, Juignet's French company appeared and remained until June 12, after which Prof. Macallister, magi- cian, was the attraction. A benefit was given, afternoon and eve- ning of July 21, to the company and attaches of Barnum's Museum, who were thrown out of employment by the fire there. Among those who assisted were Kate Reignolds, L. J. Mestayer, the San Francisco Minstrels, Emily Melville, W. Davidge, M. B. Pike, Carrie Moore, Jenny Engel, Mme. Martinetti, Mons. Baptistin, G. C. Davenport, Mitchell, Wm. Connolly, Mary Estelle, Hattie Walby, J. J. Prior, J. E. Nagle, Gustavus Geary, G. L. Fox, and his pantomime company from the Old Bowery Theatre, George Christy, M. Bryan, Kate Pennoyer, Mrs. H. Chapman, Jenny
1865]
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
Cleaver, Nannie Hook, W. P. Smith, Welsh Edwards, B. Porter, and the Hanlon Brothers. The entertainment comprised the " Jenny Lind" burletta, "A Morning Call," "Barney the Baron," "Handy Andy," "Mr. and Mrs. Peter White," an olio and a speech by P. T. Barnum.
Prof. Herrmann opened the season of 1865-66, Sept. 12. It was at this time that the trouble took place between the managers of the different theatres in this city, and The New York Herald. Maretzek was the prime mover in this battle. The Herald made a savage onslaught on him, saying that the company engaged was a very poor one, and that Maretzek cared very little about the New York public. Maretzek published a card in the other papers of this city, charging The Herald with interference in the arrange- ment of the opera, alleging that the editor and many of the staff of that journal were persistent " deadheads," and detailing many griev- ances too long endured, and pluckily refusing to be either dictated to or influenced by any such mode of procedure. The result was that at a meeting of the managers it was resolved to stop advertis- ing in The Herald, and several of the managers had at the top of all their advertisements, programmes, and posters the line : " This establishment does not advertise in The New York Herald. " The following named theatres were among those who did not advertise in The Herald: Academy of Music, Winter Garden, Olympic, New York Circus, Barnum's Museum, Fox's Old Bowery, Niblo's, Wal- lack's, and New Bowery. Those who did advertise were Wood's Theatre, opposite St. Nicholas Hotel (afterwards Josh Hart's Theatre Comique), Wood's (Broadway and Broome) Theatre, Lucy Rushton's (opposite New York Hotel), and Bryant's Minstrels. The fight lasted all through the season. Mr. Bennett then cried peccavi, sent to the several managers, promised to be a good boy in future if they would "return to the fold," and the consequence was that all resumed their advertising in The Herald.
Maretzek commenced the season, Sept. 25, with an admirable organization. The artists new to America were Enrichetta Bosisio, Bine de Rossi, Ettore Irfre, Guiseppa Mara, G. B. Antonucci, and Julius Sesselsberg. Of established favorites there were Carozzi- Zucchi, Clara Louise Kellogg, Ortalani-Brignoli, Adelaide Phil- lips, Fanny Stockton, Mrs. Reichardt, Massimilliani, Francesco Mazzoleni, Ardavani, Rovere, Dubreuil, Lorini, Herren Muller and Reichardt. Carl Bergmann, Max Maretzek, and Torriani were the conductors; Appy and Noll the leaders; Signor Dubreuil, the stage manager; Ronzani, mattre de ballet, and M. Calyo, scenic artist. The opening opera was " Faust " :
Marguerite Miss Clara Louise Kellogg
Siebel Madame Fischer
Martha . . Mile. Freda di Gebel
Faust (his first appearance in America) Sig. Ettore Irfre
Valentine Signor Bellini
Mephisto .... Signor Antonucci
52 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D86s
Sig. Achilla Ardavani died in this city May 28, 1889, aged sixty- three years. He came here under engagement with Bernard Ulmann in the season of 1857-58, and made his d6but in "II Trovatore," as Count di Luna, with marked success. For twenty years he had been a music teacher in New York and Boston.
Sept. 27, " II Poliuto " was sung with Caro2zi-Zucchi, Massi- milliani, and Bellini as the principals ; Adelaide Phillips appeared, for the first time in four years, as Maffeo Orsini in "Lucrezia Borgia," the remainder of the cast including Zucchi, Irfre, and Antonucci. A " Faust " matinee took place Sept. 30. Herrmann, the magician, appeared. Petrella's opera, "lone," was revived Oct. 2, introducing to an American audience a pupil of the com- poser in the person of Mile. Bosisio, who sustained the title part, "lone" was repeated on the following night. Sig. Mara, bari- tone, made his first appearance in America, Oct. 4, as Don Carlos in "Ernani. " Oct. 9, Signora B. de Rossi, contralto, made her debut as Azucena in " II Trovatore. " " I Puritani " was given Oct. 10; "Martha" on Oct. 13; "La Traviata," Oct. 16. Carlotta Patti died in Paris, France, June 27, 1889. In Sept., 1890, a monu- ment was erected in Montmarte cemetery, that city, to Carlotta Patti de Munck. Her last appearance here in opera was Oct. 3 in "I Puritani."
A season of opera and concert began Oct. 17, when Mile. Parepa, Carl Rosa, and Mr. Danreuther made their first appear- ances in the Academy, and Jules Levy, the cornet player, his first appearance in America. Mile. Parepa sang " The Shadow Song " from "Dinorah," an aria from "Robert le Diable," and the ballad, "Five O'clock in the Morning." Carl Rosa performed violin solos; Mr. Danreuther, piano accompaniments, and Theodore Thomas conducted the orchestra. Mr. Levy performed "The Whirlwind Polka" and "Carnival de Venice" on the cornet, and the Maretzek company sang the entire opera of " Lucrezia Borgia. " Mile. Parepa was billed to appear Oct. 18, but sickness prevented her, and Miss Kellogg played her r61e in "Lucia." Oct. 20, "Norma;" Oct. 23. "II Trovatore;" Oct. 24, "Crispino e la Comare ; " for the first time here. The cast was : Annetta, Clara Louise Kellogg; Fairy, Madame Fischer; Crispino, Signor Rovere (first appearance in several years); Fabrizio, Sig. Irfre; Mirabo- lando, Sig. Bellini; Count, Sig. Mara. Nov. 3, "Roberto II Diavolo;" Nov. 8, "Rigoletto;" Nov. 10, "Fra Diavolo;" Nov. 20, "Don Giovanni;" Nov. 24, " La Somnambula ; " Dec. i, Meyer- beer's opera, "L'Africaine," was presented for the first time in America; Selika, Mme. Carozzi - Zucchi , Inez, Mile. Ortalani- Brignoli; Vasco di Gama, Sig. Mazzoleni; Don Pedro, Sig. An- tonucci; Nelusko, Sig. Bellini; Dec. 13, "I Puritani" was announced, but, in consequence of the death of Sig. Rovere, no
18663 THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC 53
performance was given. Rovere came to this country with Alboni, in 1853. He died suddenly of affection of the throat, in this city, aged sixty years. Dec. 14, a memorial concert was given in aid of the widow and children of the composer, William Vincent Wallace. Among the artists who gave their services were Clara Louise Kellogg, Adelaide Phillips, W. Castle, S. C. Campbell, Richard Hoffman, S. B. Mills, G. W. Morgan, John A. Kyle, Wm. Berge, E. J. Browns, Theodore Thomas, and the members of the Liederkranz, Arion, Harmonic, Mendelssohn Union, and New York Singing Academy societies. Dec. 15 was the last night of the season, the opera being " L'Africaine," and at the close of the third act, Maretzek was called to the front and presented by L. W. Gerome, on behalf of many citizens, with a handsome service of silver and an address. The season closed with a matinee of "L'Africaine," Dec. 16. Fifty representations had been given, divided as follows: " Faust, " three ; "II Pol into," one; "Lucrezia Borgia," two; "lone," three; "Ernani," three; "Un Ballo in Maschera," two; "II Trovatore," three; "I Puritani," one; "Martha," one; "Traviata," one; "Lucia," one; "Norma," two; "Crispino," ten; "Roberto," two; "Rigoletto," one; "Fra Dia- volo," three; "Don Giovanni," one; "La Somnambula," one; "L'Africaine," nine.
Dec. 25, a concert was given by Clara M. Brinkerhoff, Mrs. J. H. Barclay, George Simpson, Signor Fosati, J. N. Patterson, G. W. Colby, and Grafulla's Seventh regiment band. Dec. 27, MM. P. Juignet and C. Drivet's French dramatic company played Scribe's "Bataille des Dames" and Villeneuve's "La Fille de Dominique." Dec. 30, the same company gave Bayard and Dumanoir's " Les Premiers Ans de Richelieu " and Fournier's "Le Partie de Piquet," well known since as "A Game of Cards."
Jan. 6, 8, g, 1866, the Bateman concert company, comprising Parepa, Carl Rosa, Levy, S. B. Mills, Carl Anschutz, and orches- tra were heard. Juignet & Drivet's French company sang Halevy's "L'ficlair " and Victor Masse' s "Les Noces de Jeannette," Mile. Naddie and M. Armand making their first appearance in America. The Bateman company were heard again Jan. 1 1 ; the French com- pany gave " La Ligne Droite " and " Les Domestiques Peints par Eux-m^mes," Jan. 13; "Nos Intimes," Jan. 17 and 19. The Philharmonic society gave a concert Jan. 27, and the Annual Charity Ball, Jan. 29. Feb. i, 1866, the Maretzek company sang "L'Africaine." "Don Sebastian" was revived Feb. 13, and at a matinee, Feb. 17, Sig. Brandini made his first appearance in New York as Don Carlos in "Ernani." Night of Feb. 17, Anna Lacoste appeared in a new play by Isaac C. Pray, entitled "Virginia of Rome." Mr. Clercpret, Archer, Isaac C. Pray, Hannah and H. C. Stuart were in the cast. Miss Lacoste's next appearance was
54
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1866
at the French Theatre, Aug. 30, as Deborah. She then devoted herself to dramatic readings. Without book or pamphlets, she recited the whole of "Julius Caesar," "King John," and "Romeo and Juliet," in a manner that not only attracted considerable atten- tion, but gave her a reputation for possessing a remarkable memory. In the height of her popularity she contracted a cold, which finally settled into rheumatism of the heart, and she died in this city, July 6, 1868.
Feb. 26, Carmelina Poch made her first appearance in New York as Leonora in "La Favorita." "Don Pasquale" was sung for the first time in seven years at a matinee, March 3, Sig. Sarto mak- ing his first appearance in the title r61e. Juignet & Drivet's French dramatic company played Dennery's "L'Aieule," "Le Gamin de Paris," and " Les Enfants Terribles" the evening of March 7. "L'Etoile du Nord " was revived March 9, with Kel- logg, Bosisio, Antonucci, Irfre, Sarta, and Barili in the cast. March 13, for her benefit, Zucchi presented " L' Africaine " and sang the Italian hymn, " II Garibaldino. " March 1 5, Mme. Larmet, of the French dramatic company had a benefit, presenting "Les Amours Maudit " and " Les Zuaves de Palestro. " March 23, the same company played " Les Enfer de Paris." April 5, a bal d' opera was given, the Academy being decorated with caricatures of promi- nent people, from the brush of Thomas Nast. The operatic season closed April 14, with a matinde of "Les Huguenots." During this second season " L' Africaine " had been represented nine times; "Crispino e la Comare," four times; "Norma," once; "I Puri- tani," once; "Faust," four times; "Martha," once; "Don Sebas- tian," three times; "Fra Diavolo," twice; "Ernani," once; "Poliuto," once; "lone," once; "La Favorita," five times; "La Somnambula," once; "Don Pasquale," twice; "II Trovatore," once; "L'fitoiledu Nord," six times; "Un Ballo in Maschera," once; "Don Giovanni," once; "Les Huguenots," three times, and "Lucrezia Borgia," twice ; in all fifty representations.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kean took their farewell of America, April 16, when " Louis XL " and " The Jealous Wife " were acted :
Louis XI Chas. Kean
The Dauphin . . . Miss Chapman Tristam Geo. Everett
Martha Mrs. C. Kean
De Nemours . . . . J. F. Cathcart
In "The Jealous Wife," Mr. and Mrs. Kean played Mr. and Mrs. Oakley.
Leonard Grover's German opera company began a season April 17, 1866, with "Faust," the cast embracing Himmer, Joseph Herr- mann, Heinrich Steinecke, Miles. Johanna Rotter and Sophie Dziuba. April 18, " William Tell " was given for the first time in eleven years, Wm. Formes making his first appearance in opera
1867: THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC 55
in New York as the hero. Herr Himmer was the Arnold, Herr Habelmann the Jacques; Herr Weinlich, Gessler; Mile. Johanna Rotter, Mathilde. Several of the German societies aided in the chorus. April 19, " La Dame Blanche " was sung, with Bertha Johannsen as Anna and Mme. Berger as Margaret. " Fra Diavolo " was heard at amatinde, April 21, "The Huguenots," April 23, and " Tannhauser " was announced April 27, but, owing to the illness of Mme. Rotter and Herr Weinlich, only one act was sung, and " The Magic Flute " was substituted. This closed an unsuccessful season.
Jacob Grau came May 7, with his company from Havana and gave "La Traviata," with Leonilda Boschetti as Violetta; May 9, "II Trovatore " was sung, with Mme. Noel-Guidi as Leonora, Mme. Cash-PoUini as Azucena, Musiani as Manrico ; May 10, " Faust ; " May II, " Saffo, " for the reappearance of Mile. Gazzaniga; "Faust," "Un Ballo" and "La Juive " followed ; May 18, "L'Africaine;" matinee. May 19, "Emani" and "Faust" (third act). May 21, 1866, the last performance in the old Academy of Music was given, the opera being " La Juive," thus cast: Rachel, Mme. Gaz- zaniga; Eudoxia, Mile. Boschetti; Prince Leopold, Signer Anas- tasia; Eleazar, Signor Musiani ; Cardinal, Signor Milleri. Jarrett & Palmer had leased this house for the production of " La Biche au Bois," but early on the morning of May 22 the house was en- tirely destroyed by fire. Flames were discovered in the basement, fronting on Irving Place. The performance had been closed only a short time, and a number of persons attached to the theatre were still in the building. In the short space of thirty minutes the whole building was a massive sheet of flames. At half-past one o'clock the interior of the Academy had been totally destroyed. Shortly after the fire, a meeting of the shareholders was held, and it was resolved to reljuild on the same site. The foundations were put in condition in August, 1866, and the building was ready for occupancy in February, 1867. It cost 1^300,000. Thomas R. Jack- son was the architect and contractor.
The first entertainment of any nature given in the new house was a ball for the widows and orphans of the members of the Old Fire department, Feb. 28, 1867. A bal d'opera, directed by Max Maretzek, took place the following evening.
A season of Italian opera opened March 7 by Mr. Maretzek, with the following company: Miss Kellogg, Isabella Ronconi, Mile. Carmelina Poch, Fanny Stockton, Natalie Testa, Mile. A. M. Hauck, Isabella McCulloch (afterwards Mme. Brignoli), Ronconi, Baragli, Barili, Antonucci, Mazzoleni, Bernardi, Dubreuil, Fossati, Bellini, Mara, Fleury, Reichardt, Riccardi, Muller, Testa, and Bacelli, and Miles. Kruger and Theresa, dancers. The repertory consisted of "II Barbiere," "Fra Diavolo," "Lucrezia Borgia,"
56 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE t:»867
"L'fitoile du Nord," "La Traviata," "Faust," "Crispmo e la Comare." "II Trovatore," "Norma," "Martha," "Don Giovanni, "Emani," "La Somnambula," and Petrella's new opera. La Carnival de Venice." Carl Bergmann and Sig. Torriani were the conductors. At the matinee, March i6, in addition to the opera, "Elisir d'Amore," Florence Noble read the balcony scene from "Romeo and Juliet." March i8, Parepa-Rosa made her first ap- pearance in opera in America, playing Leonore in " II Trovatore," and on the same evening Bacelli, a basso, made his first appear- ance in New York as Ferrando. Parepa-Rosa sang in "Norma," March 19 and 23. " Don Giovanni " was given March 26, with the following fine cast :
. . . Sig. Bacelli Miss C. L. Kellogg . . . Sig. Bellini . . Sig. Fossati
Comtnendatore Zerlina . . . Don Giovanni . Masseto . .
Donna Anna .... Parepa-Rosa Donna Elvira . . Isabella McCulloch Don Ottavio .... Sig. Baragli Leporello Sig. Ronconi
Parepa-Rosa closed with the matinde of "II Trovatore," March 30. April 3, for the first time in America, Petrella's opera, "La Carnival de Venice " was sung, and with this cast :
Orestes Sig. Baragli
Pylades Sig. Mara
Count Signor Bacelli
Master Cola .... Sig. Ronconi
Albina . . . Clara Louise Kellogg
Romella Signora Ronconi
Signora Muzio . . Mile. Natalie Testa
A benefit was given, April 4, for the sufferers by the burning of the Winter Garden Theatre. " Hamlet " was presented, with this cast:
Hamlet . . Gravedigger Player Kmg The Queen . Ophelia . . Player Queen
. . Edwin Booth . W. S. Andrews W. A. Donaldson . . Ida Vernon Mme. Scheller Miss Andrews
Laertes C. Barton Hill
The Ghost .... J. N. Gotthold The King . . . M. W. Leffingwell
Polonius W. Davidge
Horatio J. DuflF
Orlandini and Ortalani appeared in " L'Africaine " April 15, and Angela Peralta, a Mexican prima donna, made a most successful d6but April 25, in "La Somnambula." The season closed May 4, and May 6 Thomas Maguire & Richard Risley's company of Japanese contortionists, magicians, and balancing artists took possession of the Academy, remaining until June 15. A Masonic ovation was held June 27, in aid of the widows and orphans of the Masons of the South, the artists being Mile. Hauck, Sigs. Bellini and Mara, Edward Hoffmann, Henry Mollenhauer, D. L. Down- ing, and band. During the evening an address was delivered by Hon. James T. Brady. The Japanese company returned on July I, and remained until July 10. A new collection of Orientals,
I867II
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
SI
under the same management, appeared July 15, for that night only.
Mr. Maretzek began an Italian opera season Sept. 23, with the following company; Parepa-Rosa, Angela Peralta, Minnie A. Hauck, Ronconi, Natalie Testa, Louise Kapp- Young, Jenny Kempton, Emilio Pencani, Baragli, Testa, Anastasia, Georgio Ronconi, Bellini, Orlandini, Antonucci, and Paulo Medini. Max Maretzek, Carl Bergmann, and A. Torriani were the conductors. " Don Giovanni " was the first opera sung, with this cast :
Donna Anna .... Parepa-Rosa Donna Elvira . . . Mile. Ronconi
Zerlina Miss Hauck Leporello Sig. Ronconi
Don Giovanni .... Sig. Bellini Donna Octavio . . . Sig. Baragli
"Otello" was heard Sept. 25, when Emilio Pencani made his American debut, acting the title r61e, with lago, Bellini ; Desde- mona, Parepa-Rosa; Roderigo, Baragli. Sept. 27, "II Barbiere" was sung, with Angela Peralta as Rosina ; Ronconi was the Figaro, and Paulo Medini made his American d^but as Barilio. Oct. 7, Orlandini was heard as Carlos in " Ernani. "
Oct. 9, Mme. Janauschek made her first appearance in America, acting "Medea." The version was Grillpainseu's translation. Francesca Roraana Magdalena Janauschek was supported by a company brought from Europe. " Medea " was presented with this cast: Jason, Herr Scherenberg; King of Corinth, Herr Kleinart ; Creusa, Miss Teitz; Herold, Herr Crelinger; Cora, Miss Singer; Medea, Janauschek. Oct. 12, Janauschek played "Deborah;" Oct. 17, "Mary Stuart." Oct. 18, Cagnoni's opera, "Don Bucef- alo, " was given, for the first time in America. Ronconi was the Don Bucefalo. Oct. 19, Janauschek played " Brunhild ; " and Oct. 24, "Adrienne;" Oct. 30, Louise Kapp- Young made her Ameri- can debut as Selika in "L'Africaine," Bellini as Neluska; Nov. 2, Janauschek was seen in the dual rSle of Emelia Galotti and Countess Orsini, in Lessing's drama of "Emelia Galotti," followed by "The Gladiator of Ravenna." "Don Carlos," Nov. 8; and Nov. II, selections were given from "Die Carisschueller," "Don Carlos," and other works; Nov. 14, Janauschek was seen as Mari- anna in "A Woman of the People." "Romeo e Giulietta" was sung, for the first time in America, Nov. 15, and with this cast:
Romeo Sig. Pencani
Mercutio Sig. Orlandini
Capulet Sig. Antonucci
Friar Lawrence . . . Sig. Medini
Tybalt Sig. Testa
Gregory Sig. Barili
Janauschek closed Nov. 30, with "The Gladiator of Ravenna." She had given twenty-two performances, appearing in "Medea," three times; "Deborah," three times; "Mary Stuart," twice;
Duke Herr MuUer
Paris Herr Velden
Benvolio .... Herr Reichardt Juliet .... Mile. M. A. Hauck Nurse Mme. Flurry
58 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D868
"Brunhild, "once; "Adrienne, the Actress, " three times ; "Emelia Galotti," twice; "Gladiator of Ravenna," twice; "Don Carlos," once; " Marianna, " twice ; "Romeo e Giulietta," and " Macbeth, " once, and "Egmont," once.
Dec. 6, "Linda di Chamounix" was sung. March 18, 1867, the sufferers by Barnum's Museum fire took a benefit afternoon and evening. The attractions in the afternoon were an address by Mr. Barnum and a performance of "Uncle Tom's Cabin," with Mrs. Howard as Topsy. In the evening " Pale Janet " was performed, and Mile. Diani and others contributed to the entertainment. The principal event of the following week occurred on Friday. It was the performance between the second and third acts of Brignoli's new symphony, "A Sailor's Dream," under the com- poser's direction.
"Un Ballo in Maschera," March 30, i868, was acted by the De La Grange and Brignoli company, Mme. de La Grange in the title r61e. Miss McCulloch, Stella Bonheur, Brignoli, and Orlandini in the cast. Mile. Bonheur sang Orsini in " Lucrezia Borgia ; " " Robert le Diable " was given on Friday, with Joseph Herrmann as Bertram.
The Artists' Union gave a week of Italian opera, commencing April 13, 1868, with Carl Bergmann as conductor. Janauschek returned with her German company and gave six performances, commencing April 22. E. L. Davenport took a benefit April 30, when he played "Hamlet," with the following people supporting him : D. H. Harkins, Lewis Baker, Harry Hawk, John Huntley, Ryer, George Clarke, F. G. Maeder, W. James, J. Wilson, H. H. Pratt, T. E. Morris, W. S. Higgins, Claude Burroughs, J. Turner, S. Drake, Irene Gay, Kate Ryner, and Isabella Preston. H. L. Bateman had a benefit May 2. At the matinee " La Belle H61fene " was given, and in the evening the first two acts of " La Grande Duchesse " were sung with the second act of " La Belle H61^ne " and the drama of "The Old Guard," in which Mr. Bateman appeared, for the first time in many years, acting Haversack.
Dan Bryant played "Handy Andy" and "The Irish Emigrant," May 7. The proceeds of the performance Mr. Bryant gave to the American Dramatic Fund. The opera season terminated May 6. During its progress the following operas had been sung: "Don Giovanni," three times; "I Puritani," once; "Otello," once; "II Barbiere," four times; "Norma," three times; "Crispino," three times; "II Trovatore," three times; "Faust," three times; "Ernani," once; "Lucia," once; "Huguenots," five times; "Don Bucefalo," threetimes ; " L'Africaine," twice;;" Romeo e Giulietta," four times ;" Don Pasquale," once, and "Linda," once; in all thirty- nine representations.
Dec. 3, De Pol's spectacular sensation, "The Golden Branch, or
18682
THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC
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the Devil's Auction" was transferred from Banvard's Museum to the Academy, and was played, with the exception of the opera nights, until Dec. 17. Guiseppina Morlacci, Eliza Blasina, Augusta Sohlke, Ermesilda Diani, Eugenie Lupo, Aurelia Ricci, L. Barretta, and Mons. Giovani Lupo, were the principal dancers, with Sig. D. Ronzani as maitre de ballet. In the dramatic com- pany were Annie Wood, Hattie Thome, and others. A. Pedigam was musical director. Auber's opera, "La Bayadere," was given Dec. 16, for the first time here in sixteen years. H. L. Bateman's Opera Bouffe company performed " La Grande Duchesse, " Dec. 20, for the benefit of the French Benevolent Society. Janauschek reappeared Dec. 23, in "Deborah;" Dec. 25, "Marianna" and "Come Here; " Dec. 27, "Faust" was sung; Dec. 28, Janauschek was seen in "Iphigenia in Tauris." The Caroline Richings Opera troupe began a season Dec. 30, in "Crown Diamonds;" Dec. 31, "Martha." Jan. i, 1868, for the first time in this city, Benedict's opera, "The Lily of Killarney," was sung, cast as follows :
Eily O'Connor . Anne Chute Mrs. Cregan . Hardress Cregan Danny Mann .
Caroline Richings
Mrs. E. Seguin
Mrs. James Arnold
. . Wm. Castle
S. C. Campbell
Myles-na-Coppaleen . Pierre Bernard Father Tom . . . . H. G. Peakes Bertie O'Moore .... Mr. Wylie Corrigan .... James A. Arnold
This opera was received so coolly that it had only one other re- production. " Maritana, " " The Doctor of Alcantara, " " The Bohe- mian Girl," " Fra Diavolo," " La Somnambula," and " Faust " were given in succession. W. Vincent Wallace's opera of "The Desert Flower " was sung, for the first time in America, Jan. 1 5 : Captain Maurice, W. Castle; Major Hector Van Pumpernickle, E. Seguin; Sergeant Peterman, J. A. Arnold; Casgan, Mr. S. C. Campbell; Oanita, Caroline Richings; Eva, Mrs. J. A. Arnold. "Fra Dia- volo " closed the season. The Hah Yah-Ta-Kee troupe of Japs commenced Jan. 24, and continued until Jan. 29. Feb. 12, the De La Grange-Brignoli Italian opera company, under the direc- tion of Max Strakosch, took possession of the Academy. In this company were Anna de La Grange, Adelaide Phillips, Isabella McCulloch, Rita Sangalli (danseuse), Brignoli, Massimilliani, Sarti, Coletti, Baragli, Susini, and Nicolao, musical director. They remained until Feb. 28, giving "La Traviata," "Lucia," "Un Ballo in Maschera," "Rigoletto," "La Favorita," "Norma," and "Roberto el Diavolo." This company returned March 16, Stella Bonheur having meantime joined them, and they remained for one week.
May II, Mme. Janauschek gave selections from "Mary Stuart" and " Deborah, " and the Italian artists were heard in a concert for the benefit of the American Dramatic Fund. Wendell Phillips
6o A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cises
lectured on "Daniel O'Connell," May 12, and Camilla Urso, S. B. Mills, and Carl Bergmann gave a concert for the benefit of the widow of A. Hirschman, May 16. Jerome Hopkins directed the annual concert of the Orpheon Free choral schools, May 26.
The B. P. O. Elks gave their first matinee benefit enter* tainment June 8, when volunteers from all the variety and minstrel establishments in town assisted. Lucille Tostee had a farewell benefit June 25, presenting the first act of " La Grande Duchesse," the second act of " La Belle Hdlene," and the operetta of " Litschen and Fritzschen." This house was opened Sept. 21, 1868, for the production of a play called " 1868, or the Bride of a Politician," by George Marlow. It had two performances only. This was the cast :
Gay Eldred . . . . W. H. Meeker Davis S. B. Villa
Pierce Brown . . . Theo. Hamilton Florence .... Henrietta Irving
George Burke . . . . F. C. Bangs Maude Miss Noemie
Squire Fairfield . . . W. Hamblin Mme. Ven Kelmeyer . . Mrs. Wilkins
Lynn W. Harley Hans Ven Kelmeyer . S. W. Ashley
Janauschek, having returned from Europe, began a season of German tragedy, Oct. 6. Herren Guttman, Bennemann, Rhine- hardt, and Miss Kuchle were her principal supporters. Janauschek played seven times, and her repertory consisted of Donna Isabella in "Bride of Messina," Phaedra, Deborah, Mary Stuart, Katharina, in Albert Lindner's five-act drama, "Katharine, the Second, Em- press of Russia," first time in America, Oct. 14, and Medea.
Max Strakosch commenced a season of opera, Oct. 19. Clara Louise Kellogg was the star, having just returned from Europe. Mile. Freda de Gebel, Alida Topp (pianist), Sig. Lotti, Petrelli, Susini, Mons. Caesar Alard, Carl Bergmann, and Giorza; Oct. 29, M. Jules Leotard, trapezist, made his American d6but under the direction of Jerome Ravel. The farce " The Governor's Wife " was also acted. Leotard continued for three performances. Max Maretzek took possession Nov. 16, with "II Trovatore," sung in Italian by Agatha States, Cellini, Brignoli, Orlandini, and Barili; " Fidelio " was given in German, Nov. 17, by Miles. Johanna Rotter and Cellini, and Herren Habelmann, Reichardt, Formes, and Her- mann. Mme. de La Grange, Isabella McCulloch, Mile. Wes- mael, and Signori Brignoli, Habelmann, and Hermann sang "Roberto el Diavolo." "Der Freischiitz " was sung in German, Nov. 19, with De La Grange as Agatha and Karl Formes as Caspar. "Sicilian Vespers," "Ernani," and "Don Giovanni" were then given, Louise Durand making her debut as Zerlina, in the latter, Nov. 23. "Fra Diavolo" and "Un Ballo in Maschera" followed, and Alessandro Boetti made his first appearance as Al- fredo, in "La Traviata," Nov. 27, the season closing with a matinee, Nov. 28. Wm. Horace Lingard company, then occupying the Theatre Comique (Broadway and Spring Street), gave an en-
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tertainment here Nov. 30. Grau's Opera Bouff6 company, from the French Theatre, gave "Barbe Bleue," Dec. 17, with Desclauzs as Bulotte, for the benefit of the French Benevolent society. "Genevieve de Brabant" was also sung.
Maretzek commenced an Italian opera season Feb. 11, 1869. The company consisted of De La Grange, States, Kellogg, McCul- loch. Rotter, Cellini, Durand, Wesmael, Brignoli, Orlandini, Antonucci, Boetti, and Habelmann. The operas given were "Sicilian Vespers," "Norma," "II Trovatore," "L'Africaine," "Belisario," "Robert le Diable," "L'fitoile du Nord," "Ernani," "La Favorita," "La Traviata," "Crispino," "Don Giovanni," "Faust," and "Fra Diavolo." Giovanni Reina made his d^but as Carlos in "Ernani," Feb. 24, and "Le Prophete " was produced March 1 1. It was repeated four times, the season closing March 27. On March 30, a bal d' opera was given.
Janauschek, with her German company, returned here March 29, in "Deborah." "Elizabeth" and "Marianna," filled out the first week. Sig. Susini had a matinee benefit, April 3, presenting " II Barbiere," with Adelaide Phillips as Rosina and Alida Topp, the pianist. Janauschek, during the remainder of her season, played in "Angelo," "Medea," "Mary Stuart," "Phaedra," "The Gladi- ator of Ravenna," "Iphyginia," and "The Bride of Messina," the latter being given for the benefit of the German hospital fund, April 21. She gave her farewell performance April 23, appear- ing in four different characters, viz., Lady Milford, in an act of "Love and Intrigue;" the Princess Eboli in "Don Carlos;" the Actress in Elzholz's "Come Here," and the Countess Orsini in "Emelia Galotti."
Rossini's "Messe Solennelle" was sung April 29 and 30, by Kellogg, Fannie Natalie Testa, Boetti, and Antonucci, Max Maretzek directing the orchestra. It was also repeated at a matinee. May 8. Tostee, the French singer, had a benefit. May I, when "Le Marriage aux Lanternes," an act from "La Belle H61^ne," and "Mons. Chouf Levry" were sung.
A combination of English and Italian opera singers appeared on alternate nights, beginning May 13, when "Lurline" was sung, for the first time in Italian ; May 1 5, it was given in English. The two casts were:
Italian.
Lurline Agatha States
Ghiva Mile. F. N. Testa
Liba Mrs. Reichardt
Count Rudolph . . Herr Habelmann
Rhineberg Antonucci
Zelleck W. Formes
Baron Truenfels Barili
Wilhelm Reichardt
English Lurline .... Miss Mc.CuUoch Ghiva .... Anne Kemp Bowler
Liba Miss F. Kimball
Count Rudolph . Brookhouse Bowler
Rhineberg Orlandini
Zelleck G. F. Hall
Baron Truenfels Lorini
Wilhelm A. Mathison
62 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1869
Bonfanti led the ballet. Maretzek and Torriani were the con- ductors. The season closed May 26. A company of French artists, with Mile. Moreau, acted Sardou's "Seraphine," May 25. Tostee bid one farewell to the United States May 29, but made another at the Fifth Avenue Theatre, May 31. The Cuban patri- ots had a benefit July 20. The entertainment consisted of or- chestral performances directed by Carl Anschutz; ballets led by the Miles. Diana, Baretta, Lucille, Therese, and Mathilde; piano- forte solos by Harry Sanderson ; singing by Arthur Mathison, and French vaudeville by Francis, Benedick, Cellini, and Aberle. At the close of the performance the Marseillaise was sung by the com- pany and twenty Cuban soldiers in uniform. The affair was under the management of Starr Morrissey, Sam Genese, and Edmund Gerson.
Sept. 10, a benefit was tendered by Edwin Booth to the family of J. G. Hanley, formerly stage manager of the Winter Garden and Wallack's Theatre. The play was "Othello," John McCuUough, the Moor; Edwin Booth, lago; W. E. Sheridan, Cassio; Mrs. Emma Waller, Emilia; and Blanche de Bar, Desdemona; the other characters were sustained by Edward Lamb, W. R. Floyd, A. W. Fenno, and John L. Matthews. Prof. Herrmann, magician, appeared Sept. 15 (his first appearance in five years), the proceeds being for the benefit of the Avondale sufferers. Herrmann contin- ued for two evenings each week until Oct. 18. Dryane and company commenced a season of French opera Sept. 22, with "La Juive," cast as follows :
Eleazar M. Tabardi
Cardinal Brogni ... M. Tasson
Leopold M. Girrebeuck
Albert M. Mestre
Ruggiero M. Haesler
Officer M. Bles
Rachel . . . Mme. Faye-Fanschetti Princesse Edoscie Mme. G. Devillers
The ballets were led by Miles. Wesmael, Billon, and M. Van Hamme, and M. Van Ghele was the musical director. " Les Mous- quetaires de la Reine " was given Sept. 24, when Euphemie Bleau, from the Imperial Opera House, Paris, made her first appearance as Athenais De Solanges. " La Juive " was repeated on Sept. 29, and "Les Mousquetaires, " Sept. 27. The B. P. O. Elks had their annual benefit matin6e, Sept. 28, when most of the variety theatres and minstrel establishments in town were represented. "Robert le Diable" was announced for Oct. i, but the collapse of the season prevented its performance. It was, however, subsequently given by the French artists, for their own benefit, Oct. 8, and at a matinee, Oct. 9, " Lucia di Lammermoor " was sung in French. Nov. I, a variety entertainment for the benefit of the Ladies' Aid society and German hospital, among those assisting being Jim Mace, James Taylor, Tony Pastor, J. K. Emmet, Leopold and
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Geraldine, Hutchinson, Abner S. Brady, Leggett, and Allen, and others.
Max Maretzek commenced an Italian opera season, Nov. 3, with "II Trovatore," in which Mile. Carolina Briol and Lefranc made their American debuts as Leonore and Manrico; Rose Cellini, Azucena; Reyna was the Di Luna, and Barili, the Ferrando. Nov. 5, " Linda di Chamounix " was sung, Miss Kellogg, Sig. Ronconi and Herr Habelmann sustaining the principal rdles ; and " II Tro- vatore" was repeated at a matinee, Nov. 6. Miss Kellogg and Sig. Ronconi were heard in "Crispino," Nov. 8; "II Trova- tore," Nov. 10; "Fra Diavolo," Nov. 12, and at a matinee, Nov. 13, "Linda." "Norma" was sung Nov. 15, with Mile. Briol in the title r61e, and Louise C. Treuer made her debut on the stage as Adelgisa; Massimilliani was the Pollio, and Coletti, Oroveso. Kellogg and Lefranc sang in "II Poliuto" Nov. 17 and 19, and at a matinde, Nov. 20. " William Tell " was given Nov. 23. Lefranc was Arnoldo, and Mme. Briol, Matilda; the remainder of the cast included Mme. Lami and Signori Reyna, Coletti, Barili, Fosatti, Reichardt, and Diehm. In the fourth act, the aria for the tenor, usually omitted, was sung by Lefranc. The trio in the second act was also sung for the first time in America. " William Tell " was repeated Nov. 24, 26, 29, Dec. i and 6. A concert was given Nov. 6, in aid of the American Dramatic Fund, by Mrs. Charles Moulton, Marie Putnam, Anna Mehlig, W. R. Augur, M. Tabardi, Sig. Gariboldi, J. Levy, Max Maretzek, and C. Van Ghele. " Crispino " was sung Nov. 27, and " Lucrezia Borgia," Dec. 3, Mile. Briol being the heroine, and Jenny Lands- man making her operatic debut as Orsini on the latter occasion, and Ronconi, for the first time, appeared as the Duke Alphonso. Errani was the Gennaro. " La Somnambula " was heard at the matinee, Dec. 4, and "William Tell" in the evening, for the benefit of the Ladies' Hebrew Benevolent society. Ferrari's opera, "Pipele," had its first American representation Dec. 10, and with this cast :
Rigoletto .... Clara L. Kellogg
Maddalena Mile. Lami
Pipele Sig. Ronconi
Cabrion Sig. Reyna
Jacques Ferrand Duresnel . . .
. . Sig. Barili Massimilliani Usher Sig. Reichardt
The ballets were led by Miles. Sand and Vestre, and M. Marwig. "Pipele" was repeated on Dec. 13 and 18. The other perform- ances were "William Tell," Dec. 11 (matinee); "Elisir d'Amore," Dec. 15, Mile. Pauline Canissa making her first appearance as Amina, in "Un Ballo" on Dec. 17, the season closing with the performance of Dec. 18.
Professor Herrmann, assisted by Mme. Herrmann and M. Leon,
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A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 1:1870
reappeared Dec. 20 and continued Dec. 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, Jan. 3, 4, 5, 1870. "Der Freischutz," in German, Jan. 21 and 29, by W. Candidus, F. Remmertz, Dehnhoff, Herder, Ely, Schwickardy, Apfelbaum, Mmes. Frederici-Himmer, and Rotter-Dieffenbach, assisted by the chorus of the Arion and New York singing Academy Societies.
Maretzek's Italian company returned Feb. i, Eliza Lumley- Bath, being now with it, and gave "II Trovatore," "William Tell," "Masaniello," "Linda," "Un Ballo," "Fra Diavolo," "Faust," and "Rigoletto." In "Un Ballo," Feb. 11, Dr. Valen- tine, an amateur of this city, appeared as Renato. " Robert le Diable " was announced for Feb. 23, but the season came to an abrupt termination. "Der Freischutz" was again sung March 11, with Mme. Johannsen, Mile. Canissa, and the Arion and New York singing societies.
The Parepa-Rosa English Opera company, under the direction of Carl Rosa and C. D. Hess & Co., began a season May 14. This company embraced Parepa-Rosa, Mrs. Seguin, Mrs. Frank Boudi- not, Rose Hersee, Miss Isaacson, Nordblom, Laurence, Campbell, Castle, G. F. Hall, De Solla, Howard, and Edward Seguin. They sang "The Marriage of Figaro," March 14, 15, 16, 19, and 25; "Martha," March 18, and "Der Freischutz," in English, for the first time by them, March 21, Parepa-Rosa being the Agatha, Miss Hersee the Anna, Castle, Max, and Campbell, Caspar. "Fra Diavolo" was sung March 22, "II Trovatore," March 23, and "Martha," at a matinee, March 26. Geraldine Warren made her ddbut March 26 as the Gypsy Queen in "The Bohemian Girl." " Maritana " was heard March 28.
Carl Maria Von Weber's " Oberon " was sung for the first time in New York, in English, March 29, and with this cast :
Reiza Parepa-Rosa
Fatima Mrs. E. Seguin
Sir Huron W. Castle
Sherasmin .... Mr. Laurence
Almanzor Mr. Hall
Oberon Mr. De Solla
Puck Geraldine Warren
It was repeated April i. Rose Hersee took a benefit March 30, when an act of "II Trovatore" and "The Black Domino" formed the bill. "The Bohemian Girl" closed the season, matinee, April 2.
Max Strakosch commenced a season of Italian opera April 19, with Carlotta Patti as his prima donna. She appeared as the Queen of Night, in "II Flauto Magico," supported by Herr Habelmann, as Tamino, Herr W. Formes as Papageno, Canissa as Pamina, Mile. D'Zuiba as Papagena and Herr Weigan as Monostatos. Theo. Ritter was musical director. On April 22, 23, 25, 27, matinee, April 30, "II Flauto Magico" was repeated;
i87o: ACADEMY OF MUSIC 65
April 29, "Faust," with Herren Habelmann, Formes, Miles. Canissa and D'Zuiba in the cast. Patti closed the season April 30. The Parepa-Rosa company reappeared in "Don Giovanni April 13, 16, and matinde, April 17; "Oberon," evening, April 14; Sig. Albites commenced a season of Italian opera April 16. His principal artists were Miss Kellogg, Gazzaniga, Miss Freda di Gebel, Brignoli, Petrelli, Sarti, and Fossati, the opening opera being "II Trovatore." Isabella McCulloch reappeared as Lady Henrietta in "Martha," Clara Perl, contralto, from the Imperial Opera House, Vienna, on the same occasion making her New York debut as Nancy. " Lucia " was sung April 20 and " Trova- tore," (matinee), April 21. In the evening the American Musical Fund Society gave a concert. Miss Kellogg and Signor Lefranc appeared in " II Poliuto," April 23, and April 24 Mrs. Imogene Brown made her debut in opera in " Un Ballo. " Lefranc was ill, and his place was taken at short notice by Sig. Phillippe. " II Trovatore " was repeated April 25, and the season closed with a matinee April 28 of " Linda. " Jenny Willmore took a benefit April 28, when the following was the programme : "A Morning Call" — C. Allerton as Edward Ardent (first appearance in America), Mrs. Chas. Ed- monds as Mrs. Chillington; Boucicault's drama, "The Mad Boy;" third act of "Camille," with Matilda Heron as Camille, Ida Ver- non as Nichette, Ed. Thome as Armand, and John Jack as Mons. Duval. Jenny Hughes sang Killarney, and the entertainment closed with Ada Harland as Pygmalion in the burlesque of " Pyg- malion," Lizzie Willmore as Cupid, Felix Rogers as Cambyses, Emily and Mary Pitt as Venus and Psyche, and Jenny Willmore as the Statue.
In May, 1870, I resigned my position as dramatic editor of TAe New York Clipper — which place I held from May, 1863 — to em- bark in the dramatic agency business. A complimentary benefit was tendered me by all the managers of the city theatres, also Charles A. Dana, editor of The Sun, Joseph Howard, Jr., and George Bartholomew, editor of The Daily News. The affair took place at this house afternoon and evening of May 31. The after- noon programme was this : Hooley's minstrels in a first part, fol- lowed by G. Swaine Buckley (his first appearance in New York in eight years), in his "Act of All Acts, or Musical Moments," in which he performed on twelve different instruments, viz. : violin, concertina, bones, cornet, banjo, Chinese fiddle, melophone, zolo- phone, guitar, flageolet, and piccolo; and many specialty actors, closing with a walk around by one hundred and twenty-three minstrel performers. The evening programme began with " Nan the Good for Nothing:" Nan, Lotta; Dribbles, Robert McWade; Mr. Simpson, W. Chapman, followed by an olio entertainment, many specialty acts, and the farce "Don't Judge by Appear- voL. II. — 5
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A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1870
ances:" Diana, Rose Massey; John Plump, O. S. Fawcett; and others. There were more performers on the stage at one time than ever before or since witnessed in America in a first part minstrel scene. In the walk around in the afternoon there ap- peared Dan Bryant, Dave Reed, Eugene Unsworth, G. W. Rocke- feller, Little Mac, Frank Kerns, Nelse Seymour, Tony Pastor, Add Ryman, Cool White, Archy Hughes, Billy Rice, Cooper and Fields, John Mulligan, Billy Emmett, Johnny Queen, Bobby New- comb. Billy West, Johnny Wild, Sheridan and Mack, Frank Brower, Kelly and Leon, S. S. Purdy, and many other prominent per- formers. The entire orchestras of Kelly & Leon's, Bryant's and Hooley's minstrels appeared in the afternoon. The receipts were: Afternoon, ^632.50; evening, ;^9i8; from contributions, 1^285; making the gross receipts, 1^1,835.50.
Dan Bryant had a benefit June 2 and the programme was : First act of "The Colleen Bawn," with this cast:
Myles na Coppal Father Tom . Kyrle Daly . Eily . . . Anne Chute . Shelah . .
. Dan Bryant
W. D. Shiels
Fred Maeder
Effie Germon
Bella Pateman
Marion Mordaunt
Danny Mann Hardress Cregan Corrigan . . . Dennis . . . Mrs. Cregan
W. R. Floyd
.Oliver Byron
. Dan Myron
G. F. Carlisle
Carrie Jamison
Bryant's Minstrels were seen in a first part; Charles Brooke, the lawyer, recited "Shamus O'Brien," and the performance closed with "Handy Andy":
Handy Andy Squire Egan Mr. Murphy Dick Dawson Mr. Furlong .
. Dan Bryant W. D. Shiels
Willie Edouin . I. L. Street
Chas. Newton
Ed. O'Connor Barney . . Oonah . . Mad Nance . Fanny Dawson
. F. G. Carlisle . . Little Mac . Jennie Hughes Mrs. H. Godfrey . . Mary Sayers
A benefit occurred June 8, for the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund, under the auspices of Raymond Lodge, No. 644 F.A.M. "Robert Macaire " was acted, with Chas. K. Fox as Robert Macaire, G. L. Fox as Jacques Strop; and Fox's pantomime company. This was followed by a musical entertainment, and concluded with "Sketches in India," cast thus:
Tom Tape .... Felix Vincent Sir Matthew Scraggs . . . John Jack Lady Scraggs . Mrs. E. B. Holmes Sallie Scraggs Mrs. Claude Hamilton
Milton jas. Tighe
Count Glorieaux . . Fred Maeder Capt. Dorrington . George A. Archer Poplin Lizzie Mahon
Clara Louise Kellogg gave a concert here Oct. 8, and was assisted by F. Filippi, tenor; A. Randolfi, baritone; James M. Wehli, pianist ; George W. Colby, conductor, and the members of the New York Philharmonic orchestra, under the conductorship of Carl Bergmann.
1870 ACADEMY OF MUSIC 67
Janauschek began a season here under the management of Augustin Daly, Oct. 10, in "Deborah," which was repeated Oct. II, 12, and matinee, Oct. 15; Oct. 13, i4,"Mary Stuart," and Oct. 15, " Come Home. " In the company were Walter Montgomery, Fred- eric Robinson, Mark Smith, John B. Studley, Fanny Morant, George F. Devere, A. H. Davenport, James Dunn, Thomas J. Hind, T. F. Egbert, Fred Munroe, H. R. Rendle, lone Burke, Nellie Mortimer, Amy Ames, and Mme. De les Derniers. Oct. 17, "Macbeth" was acted, with Walter Montgomery as Macbeth, and Janauschek as Lady Macbeth. Montgomery's Macbeth was a great performance.
The Strakosch Italian Opera company began a season here in December, and closed Jan. 10, 1871, with "Lucia," Christine Nilsson in the title r61e. Barre sang Ashton ; Brignoli, Edgardo ; Coletti, Raimondo; and Richardt, Arturo. The George Holland Testimonial took place Saturday afternoon and evening, Jan. 21, and the entertainment was as follows: Recitation, "The Actor," Sidney WooUett; ballad, Emma Howson; recitation, Goethe's "Erl-King," Mme. Marie Seebach; piano recital, J. M. Wehli; romance, Alberto Lawrence; recitation, "The Poor Player at the Gate," Geo. Vandenhoff; song, "Loving Hearts," Sig. Ran- dolfi; recitation, "20, 30, 40," Mme. Seebach; polacca, from "Mignon," Clara Louise Kellogg; "A Model of a Wife," char- acters by Chas. Wheatleigh, James Rooney, Sol Smith, Helen Tracy, Georgie (Dickson) Rowe; song by Sig. Randolfi; "The Buzzards," by J. B. Curran and Wm. Davidge, J. C. Williamson, Louisa Eldridge, Marian Mordaunt. This constituted the after- noon performance. In the evening the programme was the curse scene from "Deborah," by Fanny Janauschek; the forest scene from "Ingomar," Mr. and Mrs. F. B. Conway as Parthenia and Ingomar; recitation, "The Vagabonds," by Frederic Robinson; " Lend Me Five Shillings," with Joseph Jefferson, Thos. E. Morris, James Dunn, Frank Chapman, J. W. Leonard, J. Peck, Effie Germon, and Blanche de Bar in the cast; scenes from " Hamlet, " by E. L. Davenport, Agnes Ethel, Mrs. E. L. Daven- port, and D. C. Anderson; sleep walking scene from "Macbeth," by Isabella Glyn (her first appearance in America), E. B. Holmes, and Mrs. L. E. Seymour ; " The Latest from New York, " by Mr. and Mrs. Barney Williams, Sol Smith, and Mr. Peck; "Box and Cox," by Harry Beckett, Geo. L. Fox, and Mrs. L. E Seymour. James Schonberg was the stage manager. The receipts were $1,270.
A season of English opera began Feb. 5, 1871, with "Un Ballo in Maschera " ("A Masked Ball "), sung for the first time in Eng- lish in New York. The artists were: Parepa-Rosa, Mme. Vanzini (Van Zandt), Clara Doria, Zelda Seguin, Mrs. Cook, Miss Scho-
68 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 1:1871
field, Castle, Karl, Whiffin, Campbell, Cook, Seguin, Hall, Ryse, Bartleman. A. Dubreuil was stage manager. S. Behrens and Carl Rosa were conductors. This opera was translated expressly for the Parepa-Rosa company, and was produced with gorgeous scenery and costumes. The cast was :
Oscar Mrs. Van Zandt
Ulrica Mrs. Seguin
Samuel Hall
Amelia Parepa-Rosa
Ricardo Wm. Castle
Renato Aynsley Cook
Tom Ryse
Feb. 6, "La Gazza Ladra" ("Maid and the Magpie") was sung for the first time in English; Feb. 7, Mozart's "Marriage of Figaro;" Feb. 8 the company played in Brooklyn; Feb. 9 (matinee), "The Bohemian Girl," with Parepa-Rosa as Arline; Feb. 12, Charles Santley, the English baritone, made his operatic debut in Herold's "Zampa, or the Marble Bride." In the cast were Jennie Van Zandt, Mrs. Seguin, Aynsley Cook, Karl, and Whiffin; Feb. 13, "Don Giovanni;" Feb. 15 Santley and com- pany appeared in Brooklyn in "Zampa;" Feb. 16 Zelda Seguin took her first benefit in New York, when "Martha" was sung. The season closed Feb. 17. "II Trovatore" was sung Feb. ig, with Parepa-Rosa, Gazzaniga, Theo Wachtel, the famous German tenor, and Laurence in the cast. The receipts were ;^9,200. The prices of admission were: Orchestra and circle, ^5; boxes, $25; gallery, $2.
Madame Marie Seebach gave two farewell performances in America here. April 26 she played "Adrienne Lecouvreur," and " Mary Stuart " April 28. A season of ten subscription nights was announced May i. "The Martyrs" was revived for the reappear- ance of Clara Louise Kellogg, and the debut of Sig. Villani tenor; " Severus " was sung by Sig. Regna, baritone ; May 3, " La Travi- ata," when Sig. Caroselli, a new tenor, made his debut. He pos- sessed a voice of agreeable quality and pure when not forced, but of the most fragile timbre. Alberto Laurence, originally intro- duced here by Parepa, took the r61e of Germont; May 8, "Un Ballo in Maschera," with Mile. Tontanesi as Ulrica (her debut), Mme. States, Sig. Villani, and Sig. Laurence in the cast. "La Traviata " was sung (matinde) May 7 ; " Rigoletto," May 15, Parepa- Rosa as Gilda; "Martha," Kellogg as Lady Henrietta, Sig. Caro- selli as Lionel, Susini as Plunkett. Dan Bryant took his annual benefit June 8. "The Colleen Bawn " was played with this cast: '
Eily lone Burke
Father Tom Mark Smith
Danny Mann . . . . W. R. Floyd Corrigan .... J. C. Williamson Hardress Cregan . . Theo. Hamilton
Mrs. Cregan .... Mme. Ponisi
Anne Chute Ida Vernon
Sheelah Mary Wells
Kyrle Daly .... Owen Marlowe Myles Dan Bryant
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This was followed by Bryant's Minstrels, after which "Barney the Baron " was acted.
Professor Herrmann, the magician, came Sept. 15; Wachtel appeared Sept. 18. Another season of English opera by Parepa- Rosa was commenced Oct. 2, 1871. The company consisted of Parepa-Rosa, Madame Vanzini, Clara Doria, Zelda Seguin, Mrs. Aynsley Cook, Miss Schofield, William Castle, Tom Karl, Thomas Whiffin, S. C. Campbell, Aynsley Cook, Gustavus Hall, Bartle- man, Edward Seguin, Ellis Ryse, A. Dubreuil, stage manager; Carl Rosa, conductor. Clara Doria was the daughter of the Eng- lish composer, John Barnett, who had made a reputation under a foreign name in Italy and Germany, independent of her father's celebrity. Tom Karl was the favorite tenor of Italy. His last engagement before coming to America was at the Theatre la Scala, Milan, where Petrelia, the composer of "lone," chose him for Renzo in his new opera, " I Promessi Sposi. " The following repertory was announced by the management: "Anna Bolena," "Gazza Ladra"("Maid and Magpie"), "Lucrezia Borgia," "Sa- tanella " (first time in America as an opera), " Un Ballo in Mas- chera," "Columella" (first time in America), "Lurline," and Cherubini's "The Water Carrier." The initial opera was "The Daughter of the Regiment," in which Tom Karl made his Ameri- can debut as Tonio. Aynsley Cook as the Sergeant ; Oct. 4, Clara Doria made her American debut as Arline in "The Bohemian Girl. " Oct. 9 " Satanella" was produced with this cast :
LeKa Clara Doria
Count Rupert .... Wm. Castle
Stella Mrs. Aynsley Cook
Hortensius E. Seguin
Pracacio G. Hall
Arimanes . . . . S. C. CampbeU
The opera was produced with a completeness of detail and mis- en-sckne quite unlooked for. I can recall no instance where an opera has been more richly and artistically mounted at the Acad- emy than in the case of " Satanella. " This was the first produc- tion this opera ever had in this city in its entirety.
" Don Giovanni " was sung Oct. 16, with Mme. Parepa-Rosa as Donna Anna, Mme. Vanzini as Zerlina, Clara Doria as Donna Elvira, Tom Karl as Don Ottavio, S. C. Campbell as Don Gio- vanni, Aynsley Cook as Leporello, E. Seguin as Masetto, Ellis Ryse as Commendatore; Oct 17, " Lucrezia Borgia ; " Oct. 18, " Maritana ; " Oct. 19, the company appeared in Brooklyn in "Satanella;" Oct. 20, "Don Giovanni;" Oct. 21 (matinee), " Satanella. " With the performance of Mozart's " Don Giovanni " the Parepa-Rosa company concluded the most brilliant and in every sense the most truly gratifying season of opera in English
Karl Thomas Whiffin
The Vizier .... Mr. Bartleman Bertha . . . Mrs. Frank Boudinot
First Pirate Mr. Kenross
Satanella .... Mrs. Van Zandt
70 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1871
whereof record has been made. Parepa-Rosa, aided by the scholarly taste, large experience and remarkable executive ability of her husband, accomplished a revolution in the operatic world. An extra performance of " II Trovatore " was given by the Parepa-Rosa company, Oct. 21, when Wachtel, who had been singing in opera at the Stadt Theatre, appeared here as Manrico, Parepa-Rosa as Leonora, Gazzaniga as Azucena, Laurence as Count de Luna, and Hall as Fernando. Some idea of the interest excited by the d^but of Wachtel at the Academy and the simultaneous appearance of Parepa-Rosa in "II Trovatore " may be gathered from the fact that the receipts were the largest ever represented at the Irving Place house, being but a trifle less than ;S!9,ooo, while the actual amount disbursed by the public can be surmised from the illustrative inci- dent that a well-known ticket speculator realized nearly one thou- sand dollars from taking the chances in balcony seats and boxes. Many private boxes commanded $y$ and upward. The prices of admission were: Boxes, $^, $4, $3 and $2, and gallery $1. At 7.30 o'clock the sale of admission tickets had to be suspended. The performance was listened to with profound attention, in spite of the uncomfortable pressure felt in every part of the house. A chorus of seventy and an orchestra of sixty, led by Carl Rosa, filled out the measure of an evening's enjoyment that must remain mem- orable to all who were lucky enough to experience it.
Carl Rosa commenced a spring season of Italian opera Oct. 25 with the debut of Mile. Christine Nilsson in " Lucia di Lammer- moor." It was boldly stated that the mantle of Jenny Lind had fallen upon the shoulders of her fair young countrywoman, and that Nilsson would renew the triumphs of the Swedish nightingale. As it turned out, Nilsson's genius was pent up in the narrow limits of the concert room. It needed the larger expanse of the lyric stage upon which its first efforts had been made — its first victory achieved. Her voice, although it contained high notes of extraordinary sweetness, purity, and carrying power, was justly found somewhat wanting in strength. Her mechanism in florid passages was imperfect, and her style at times uneasy and vague, as if the idea had not fully ripened in the artist's brain. Strakosch paid her $1,000 a night, one-half the receipts in excess of $3,000 and all her expenses and her companion from the time she left Paris until her return thereto.
The annual benefit of the Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum oc- curred Oct. 24. It was under the direction of Augustin Daly, and the programme was as follows : Afternoon, the comedy called "California Diamonds," cast thus:
Kerr Mudgeon . . . Chas. Foster Danby Squires . . Harry Holmes
Mrs. Kerr Mudgeon Mrs. W. G. Jones Barney L. R. Willard
Mrs. Danby Squires . . Polly Booth Betsey Anna Mortimer
I870
ACADEMY OF MUSIC
71
This was followed with a violin solo by Sig. Padovanni and an Irish ballad by Emma Howson. " London Assurance " (third act) followed :
Lady Gay Spanker . Mrs. John Wood Sir Harcourt Courtley W. J. Lemoyne Charles Courtley . . George Clarke Grace Harkaway . . . Mary Carr Max Harkaway . . Geo. H. GriflSths
Dazzle John Brougham
Cool Edmund Pierce
James W. Beekman
Dolly Spanker . . Owen S. Fawcett
The performance closed with Dan Bryant's Minstrels in a first part. The evening's performance commenced with "Taming of the Shrew," which had this cast:
Katharina Clara Morris Biondello Frank
Bianca .... Emma Rawlinson Music Master Chapman
Curtis Mrs. Le Brun Nathaniel Stevens
Petrucio Louis James Gregory Jones
Baptista Geo. F. Devere Adam Thompson
Grumio .... Owen S. Fawcett Ralph Williams
Hortensio Al. G. Enos The Cook Webster
Next came "The Day After the Wedding:"
Col. Freelove . Lady Elizabeth . Davies . . .
. . Neil Warner
Emma Rawlinson
Mrs. Le Brun
Lord Rivers . . . . S. C. France James .... Owen S. Fawcett Groom F. Chapman
This was followed by " The Returned Volunteer : "
Bill Williams . . . W. J. Florence Betsy Parsons . . | . . . Jenny Lee Amelia . . . . \ Fannie Hayward
Pickaninny . . James Smith Mrs. Pickaninny
. Welsh Edwards
Henry Montgomery
Phyllis Glover
Then came Tony Pastor, Jennie Yeamans, and Sheridan and Mack in songs, Blanche Selwyn in male personations; and the enter- tainment closed with "Box and Cox," W. Davidgeas Cox, Edward Lamb as Box, and Miss Griffiths as Mrs. Bouncer. Oct. 25 "II Barbiere " was given. " Faust " had been announced, but post- poned, in consequence of Mile. Nilsson's hoarseness. Mile. Duval appeared as Rosina, M. Capoul as Almaviva, Ronconi as Figaro, Barili as Basilio, and Coletti as Bartolo. The Amaranth ama- teurs, of Brooklyn, acted " She Stoops to Conquer " Oct. 30 :
Sir Chas. Marlow . . . Mr. Bestow Diggory G. H. Whipple
Young Marlow . . . . C. Bamburgh Kate Hardcastle . . . Miss Beadle
Hastings S. Edson Miss Neville .... Miss Allen
Old Hardcastle . T. E. Hardenburg Mrs. Hardcastle . . Mrs. St. George Tony Lumpkin . . . John Oakey
"Box and Cox" followed, with Pope as Cox, Whipple as Box, and Miss Hall as Mrs. Bouncer. The entertainment was given for charity, and tickets were sold at $2 each.
Nov. ^i "Martha" was sung, when Anna Louise Cary made her
72 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1872
Lothario 7 Laertes 3 Giarno CoUetti
Jamet
ddbut. M. Jamet, basso, also made his American debut; Nov. 8 Christine Nilsson appeared as Marguerite, Capoul as Faust, Barre as Valentine, Miss Carey as Siebel, Jamet as Mephistopheles, Miss Cary as Martha, and Coletti as Wagner in the opera of "Faust." Nov. 17 "La Somnambula" was sung, with Mile. Cooney as Lisa, Miss Duval as Amina, Capoul as Elvino, and Sig. Buongiorno as the Count ; Nov. 22 " Mignon " was heard for the first time in this country. The cast was :
Mignon Mile. Nilsson
Filina Mile. Duval
Frederic Mile. Ronconi
Wilhelm Capoul
The Metropolitan ball, in honor of the Grand Duke Alexis of Russia, took place Nov. 29. "La Traviata " was sung Dec. 15, Nilsson as Violetta, Capoul as Alfredo; Dec. 14 "La Fille du Regiment " and fourth act of " La Traviata " were given for the benefit of the French Benevolent society; Dec. 15, "Lucia," and matin6e, Dec. 16, "Fra Diavolo;" Dec. 20, "II Trovatore," Nils- son as Leonora, Anna Louise Cary as Azucena, and Bartolini as the Count. The season closed Jan. 10, 1872, when Nilsson said farewell in the r61e of Lucia. Barre appeared as Ashton, Brignoli as Edgardo, Colletti as Raimonde, Reichardt as Arturo. Herr Johann Strauss made his New York debut March 4.
Christine Nilsson began her farewell season in New York with the Strakosch Italian Opera company . Since the days of Jenny Lind no singer so thoroughly and quickly won all hearts as Nils- son, and succeeded in fascinating large and brilliant audiences wherever she performed. Her matchless voice and lovely per- sonality gathered about her a host of friends, and not one admirer of standard music in this city but regretted her departure from our midst. In 1888 she acquired the title of Countess de Casa- Miranda by her marriage with a Spanish nobleman at Madrid. She possessed light blue eyes, flaxen hair, and a winning smile, with a high soprano voice.
On April i an Italian opera season opened for twelve subscription nights with "II Trovatore." It was the Parepa-Rosa-Wachtel com- bination, with Santley, Adelaide Phillips in the company. In eighteen performances, including one in Brooklyn, the receipts were ;^i22,ooo. De Vivo was the manager. Parepa-Rosa's last appear- ance in this city was April 30, 1872, as Valentina in "Les Hugue- nots," Herr Wachtel being the Raoul, and Santley, Conte De St. Bris. She died at Maida Vale, London, England, Jan. 22, 1874, after a brief illness. She was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1839. Under her mother's fostering care she became an apt student, and learned to speak English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish with fluency. When eighteen years of age she made her d^but in
1872] ACADEMY OF MUSIC 73
opera at Malta, singing Amina in " La Somnambula. " In the early part of i860 she first sang in English opera with the Pyne & Har- rison troupe, with whom she continued three winters. In 1863 she was married to Captain Carril, an officer of the East India ser- vice, who had just then retired. Seven months after the bridal day he went to Lima, and his wife never saw him again, as he died there in April, 1865. The issue of this marriage died shortly after its birth, and the mother, to divert her mind, returned to the stage. In 1865 she was engaged by H. L. Bateman for a concert tour in America, and made her first appearance on this side of the water at Steinway Hall, Sept. 11, of that year. After two success- ful concert seasons in this country she married Carl August Nicolas Rosa. After this marriage she sang for two seasons in English opera, and for some weeks in Italian.
Carl Rosa came to America with Bateman 's company, as solo violinist, and during his first tour in the United States he met and married Mme. Parepa, who was the prima donna. In 1869 the company went to California over the Isthmus of Panama, return- ing by coach across the continent. Carl Rosa died at Paris, France, April 30, 1889.
This house was reopened Sept. 2, for the farewell of the Yokes Family. " Black Eyed Susan " and " Belles of the Kitchen " were acted. Among the volunteers were Charles R. Thorne, Welsh Edwards, and Harry Josephs. Mrs. Macready commenced a one week's engagement Sept. 9. She appeared as Shylock in "The Merchant of Venice," and acted it four evenings. Friday and Saturday evenings, Sept. 13 and 14, she played Cardinal Richelieu. In " The Merchant of Venice " she acted Shylock. She died at Marshall, near Utica, N. Y., Sept. 20, 1873.
Pauline Lucca made her American ddbut Sept. 30, 1872, singing Selika in "L'Africaine."
The dramatic agency business has been attempted by a great many disappointed actors, in New York; finding their "talent" not that way inclined, they soon gave it up. Wardle Corbyn was the pioneer dramatic agent. He died in England, Nov. 7, 1880. He was the father of " Sherry " Corbyn. Charles Thomas Parsloe, father of Charles Parsloe, Jr., was the next one. He had offices in or adjoining the Chambers Street Theatre in 1850. He after- ward smoved to 410 Broadway, between Walker and Canal streets. On May i, 1859, he removed to 429 Broadway, corner of Howard Street. In May, 1861, he removed to 15 East Houston Street. His next move was in the summer of 1863, to 14 West Bleecker Street, next to 566 Broadway, corner of Prince Street. He died in this city, Sept. 12, 1870. Thomas Grattan Riggs, George Thompson, and John Wild opened an agency on the second floor of Military Hall, Bowery, opposite Spring Street. Harry Cunningham was
74 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C'Sj*
the next one, situated on the east side of Broadway near Bleecker Street.
Harry Wall and " Sherry " Corbyn established a dramatic agency on the west side of Broadway, between Bleecker and Amity Streets. They called it the International Agency, which they conducted for about two years. Mr. Corbyn retired in 1867 and Morris Simmonds purchased from Wall the business, and with Ben Lowell opened offices at 609 Broadway. In 1874 they dissolved copartnership, and Mr. Simmonds removed to No. 10 Union Square, where he remained for five years.
The writer of this was the next dramatic agent. I leased the first floor of the building, northwest corner of Bleecker Street and Broadway, and began business May i, 1870. I removed to 718 Broadway, May i, 1871, where I remained until Nov. 28, 1872, when the building and Lina Edwin's Theatre (located directly in the rear), were destroyed by fire. I then opened at 9 West Fourth Street, and remained there until May i, 1877, when I left the business to go on the road as business manager for Dion Bouci- cault's "Shaughraun" company.
Matt. W. Canning and Ben Lowell established an agency on Broadway, near Amity Street, in the fall of 1871. J. Alexander Brown and James Barnes next came into the field, and opened an office at 854 Broadway (below Fourteenth Street), May 15, 1877. They continued nearly two years, when Mr. Barnes retired from the business, and Mr. Brown removed to Fourth Avenue and Fourteenth Street.
Mrs. Fernandez started an agency for children, east side of Broadway, below Thirtieth Street. She next moved to north side of Thirtieth Street near Broadway, and her next move was to the Holland Building, Broadway and Fortieth Street.
Charles R. Gardiner opened an agency for a brief term at 12 Union Square. John Sandford had a variety agency on the north- east corner of Amity and Mercer streets for several years. Harry Wall took a lease of an office in the Union Square Hotel, Union Square and Fifteenth Street, and Martin W. Hanley became asso- ciated with him for a few months.
J. J. Spies and Harry Smart bought out C. R. Gardiner's inter- est at 12 Union Square, and afterwards removed to Broadway, above Seventeenth Street. Mr. Smart withdrew from the business about two years afterwards, and Mr. Spies continued alone.
On May 7, 1879, I became a partner with Morris Simmonds and opened offices at 863 Broadway above Seventeenth Street, remov- ing May I, 1881, to 1,166 Broadway, above Twenty-seventh Street. Here we remained until April 25, 1889, when we removed to the Broadway Theatre building. Forty-first Street and Broad- way. We next removed to Broadway and Thirtieth Street, April
1873] ACADEMY OF MUSIC 75
20, 1893. Morris Simmonds died in this city, May 20, 1896, and I moved to 1,358 Broadway, southwest comer of Thirty-sixth Street, April 27, 1898. The writer is at present the oldest dramatic agent living in point of service. Mrs. Beaumont Packard was the next, after whom came R. A. Roberts and Thomas Egbert ; then John Ince and R. A. Roberts, after whom came the Actors' Society, with a dramatic agency of their own. Maze Edwards opened a musical agency at 41 Union Square in the summer of 1887. The first "booking agency" was opened by Joseph Brookes and James Dickson, at 44 West Twenty-third Street. "Book- ing agents " are men who obtain " dates " for " combinations " and " stars " at the theatres throughout the country.
Charles Frohman and W. W. Randall opened a booking agency at 1,225 Broadway, below Thirtieth Street, summer of 1887. Mr. Randall withdrew in the winter of 1888-89, and Mr. Frohman continued alone, until he was joined by Arthur Miller.
Wm. R. Hayden, N. D. Roberts and James B. Dickson opened an agency at 1,162 Broadway, above Twenty-seventh Street, in the summer of 1887. The next to embark in the business was the Actors' Fund, which established a theatrical registry in 1885. J. L. Saphore was put in charge of the business.
Klaw and Erlanger bought out Harry Taylor, who had an agency on Fourteenth Street, between Fifth and Sixth avenues and established themselves in Thirtieth Street, near Broadway, and finally removed to the Holland Building, Broadway and For- tieth Street.
A benefit for the relief of the company and attaches of the Barnum Circus (which had been burned out) occurred Jan. 7, 1873. The Lydia Thompson Burlesque company began a week's engagement May 5. The following was the repertory: "Blue Beard," " Kenilworth, " "Lurline," "Robin Hood," and "Alad- din." A matinee performance for the benefit of the Foundling Asylum in charge of the Sisters of Charity was given on June 12, under the direction of Augustin Daly. " Hamlet " was played with this cast: Hamlet, C. Fechter; Polonius, Geo. Griflfith; First actor, Chas. Wheatleigh; Guildenstern, Geo. Devere; The Queen, Mrs. E. L. Davenport; King, Milnes Levick; Rosen- crantz, B. T. Ringgold. "As You Like It" followed, by Ade- laide Neilson and her company; "A Regular Fix" by E. A. Sothern, Davidge, and others; "Madelein Morel" (third act) by Daly's company; "Humpty Dumpty" by Geo. L. Fox and others, and Bryant's Minstrels. The receipts reached nearly ^10,000. At an auction sale of the private boxes, Albert Weber, the piano maker, bought one of the lower proscenium boxes, paying $800.
Tomaso Salvini, with an Italian company, made his Ameri- can debut Sept. 16, under the management of Maurice Grau,
jb A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1873
in "Othello," supported by Alessandro Salvini as lago; Sept. 20-22 he played "Ingoraar;" Sept. 23, "La Morte Civile" was announced, but in consequence of not being ready the house was closed, and reopened Sept. 24, with "Othello;" Sept. 26 "La Morte Civile" was acted for the -first time in America; matinee, Sept. 27, "Othello;" Oct. 2, "Hamlet," for the first time in America; "Hamlet" was repeated Oct. 4; "Francesca da Rimini," with Salvini as Paoli, for the first time in America; "The Gladiator " was given Oct. 9; matinee, Oct. 11, he acted with his company at Wallack's Theatre (Broadway and Thirteenth Street) in "Othello;" Oct. 14, "The Gladiator" at the Acad- emy; Oct. 16, "Othello;" at Wallack's Theatre; matinee, Oct. 18, "David Garrick." Salvini gave four performances, as follows: Oct. 21, "David Garrick;" matinee, Oct. 22, Union Square Thea- tre; Oct. 23, Academy, "Othello;" matinee, Oct. 25, "Hamlet," at the Lyceum Theatre.
Strakosch commenced a season of Italian opera Sept. 29, with "La Traviata," Victor Capoul and Sig. Del Puente in the cast. Mile. Maresi made her American d6but Oct. i, as did Sig. Italo Campanini as Genarro in "Lucrezia Borgia." Anna Louise Cary appeared for the first time in the r61e of Maffeo Orsini, Sig. Nan- netti (first appearance in America) as the Duke. M. Maurel made his New York debut Oct. 3, as Valentino in " Faust. " Oct. 6 was the joint appearance of Christine Nilsson and Campanini in " Lucia di Lammermoor;" Oct. 8 Nilsson appeared in "II Trovatore;" Oct. 10 she sang Marguerite in "Faust." Oct. 13 she appeared in "Mignon," and the season closed (matinee) Dec. 6 with "Mignon."
Maurice Strakosch died at Paris, Oct. 9, 1887. He came to America in 1848, as manager of the Salvatore Patti company, and appeared in concert in this city Oct. 2 of that year. He married Amalia Patti, sister of Adelina. He was Adelina Patti 's manager in all her concert tours from that time until her marriage with the Marquis of Caux. His opera "Don Giovanni di Napoli " was sung in this city in 1857. He played in concerts throughout the United States with Ole Bull. He was the impresario of Chris- tine Nilsson, of Carlotta Patti, Mario, Mme. Gabrielle Kraus, and Marie Heilbron. He was manager at Paris, Vienna, and Rome, and with Albert Fischhoff "discovered" Sigfried Arnoldson, a Swedish singer, and Miss Nikita, fourteen years of age, whom he regarded as a second Patti.
Tomaso Salvini reappeared Dec. 8, 1873, and acted, for the first time in this city, Orosmanes in " Zaira. " " Samson " was given (first time here) Dec. 10; "David Garrick," Dec. 12; " Samson, " mati- nee, Dec. 13; and his fiftieth performance in America took place Dec. 15, for his benefit, when "Othello" was acted. "Samson,"
1874]
ACADEMY OF MUSIC
T7
was given Dec. 17. Signorina Piamonti, Salvini's leading lady, took a benefit Dec. 19, when "Elizabeth, Queen of England," was given, Salvini as Robert, Earl of Essex, and Piamonti as Eliza- beth. This same bill was repeated (matinee) Dec. 20, when Sal- vini closed his engagement.
Max and Maurice Strakosch gave three evenings and one matinee of Italian opera, as follows: Dec. 24, "Les Huguenots," Christine Nilsson as Valentina, Anna Louise Cary, Campanini, and Del Puente in the cast; Dec. 25, "Aida;" Dec. 26, "Lucia di Lam- mermoor," Victor Capoul as Edgardo, for the first time in this city, and "Ai'da," matinee, Dec. 2T.
The Kellogg English Opera company, under C. D. Hess and Maurice Grau's direction, began an engagement here Jan. 21, 1874, in "Lucia," which they followed with "Martha," "Mari- tana," "The Bohemian Girl," "The Marriage of Figaro," "Rigo- letto," and "Faust," when the season closed.
The Strakosch Italian Opera company reappeared Feb. 23 with the announced farewell appearance in America of Christine Nils- son, Mile. Torriani, Maresi, Annie Louise Cary, Signors Capoul, Campanini, M. Maurel, Del Puente, Scolari, Nannetti ; E. Muzio, conductor. "Lucia" was sung Feb. 23-27; "Mignon," Feb. 25; "Ai'da" (matinee), Feb. 28; "Mignon," March 2, 7; "Aida," March 4; "II Trovatore," March 6; "Les Huguenots," March 9. The first representations in America of " Lohengrin " were given with this cast, March 23-25 :
Elsa Nilsson
Ortruda Anna L. Cary
Lohengrin Campanini
Frederick Del Puenta
Henry Nannetti
King's Herald Blum
On March 26 a charity benefit performance, "La Fille de Madame Angot " (" The Daughter of Mme. Angot ") was pre- sented with this cast:
Clairette Angot .... Marie Aimee
Mile. Lange Mile. Stani
Amaranthe .... Mile. Cantrelle
Javotte Mile. Gerzey
Cydalise Mile. Juteau
Mile, du Condray . . Mile. Duplan
Hersilie Mile. Vandame
Babet Mile. Perant
Manon .... Mile. Deschamps
Th^r&se Mile. Nardin
Herbelin Marie Nardin
Ange Pitou .... Mons. Juteau
Larivaudiere
Trenitz
Pomponnet
Louchard
Cadet
Buteux .
Guillaume
Un Encroyable
Un Officier .
Un Cabaretier .
Musical Conductor
Mons. Duchesne
. Mons. Lecuyer
Mons. Deschamps
Mons. Duplan
Mons. Benedick
. Mons. Julien
Mons. Nardin
Mons. Salvator
Mons. Davalis
Mons. Perrault
. C. VanGhele
The lima Di Murska Italian Opera company commenced a week's stay April 6, when " La Somnambula " was given, Di Murska as Amina; April 8 "Linda di Chamounix " was sung; April 10,
78
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 1:1875
"Dinorah;" and matinee, April 11, "Martha." Professor Herr- mann (the younger) reappeared in America May 11. A matinee performance, Oct. 20, was given for the Foundling Hospital and the attraction was " School for Scandal " (fourth act) ; Fred Maccabe, ventriloquist; the Bent Bros, in cornet solo; "The Sphinx," by the Union Square Theatre company; "Partners for Life," by Wallack's Theatre company; Harrigan and Hart, and "The Critic " by Daly's company. The season closed May 4, with a benefit to Capoul. Max Strakosch took a benefit May 5. Char- lotte Cushman gave a reading May 30 for the benefit of the Shelter- ing Arms. Salvini gave a performance of " Othello " June 22.
The regular season of Italian opera opened Sept. 28 with " La Traviata," Marie Heilbron as Violetta, Benfratelli as Alfredo, Del Puente as Germont ; " Aida " was sung Sept. 30 ; " Faust, " Oct. 2, 10; "II Trovatore," Oct. 5, Vittona Potentini as Leonora, Anna Louise Cary as Azucena, Carlo Carpi as Manrico, Del Puente as Count di Luna, Scolaroas Ferrando; "La Figliadel Reggimente," Oct. 7, and "Arda," Oct. 9. Emma Albani made her American debut Oct. 21, as Amina in "La Somnambula;" Nov. 9 she sang in "Ernani." Verdi's "Requiem Mass" was given for the first time in America Nov. 17.
C. D. Hess commenced a brief season of English opera Jan. 25, 187s, with Kellogg, in "II Trovatore," Miss Beaumond (first ap- pearance in New York) as Azucena, William Carleton as Count di Luna, Hamilton as Ferrando, Joseph Maas as Manrico. " Mignon " was rendered Jan. 29 for the first time in English. " The Talis- man," by Balfe, was given for the first time in America Feb. 10. E. Muzio took a benefit March 5, when " Lohengrin " and a con- cert were presented.
The Kellogg troupe reappeared March 29 for one week. Max Maretzek produced "L'Ombra" ("The Shadow") April 9, 10. The cast was: Adelaide Randall, Gina; Tagliapietra, Mironet; Miss M. Hoffman, Vespina; Benfratelli, Fabrizio. Mile. G. Morali made her d^but April 21 as Ernani.
The benefit for the family of the late Dan Bryant took place April 29, 1875, and the receipts were 1^1,918.50. The programme was:
"A GENTLEMAN FROM IRELAND."
Grip C. Collins
Gerald Fitzmaurice John Brougham Mr. Clover .... Welsh Edwards Hugh Savage . . . C. Burroughs Charles Clover . . . . C. Rockwell
Servant O. Montague
Agnes Clover .... Ada Monk Lucy Clover . . . Miss A. Leonard
This was foUowed by : " It is the Custom of the Country, or Yan- kee Help ' — Melissa, with Yankee song, Mrs. Barney Williams : Mrs. Pliant Manners Mary Wells; MiUy Manners, Meta Bartlett; Mr. Pliant Manners, Welsh Edwards; Mortimer Sparkle, James J. Bartlett; Frank T. R. Davis After this was given ■* "<»v».
18763 ACADEMY OF MUSIC 79
"SIMPSON & CO."
Mrs. Simpson . . Mrs. John Drew
Mrs. Bromley . . . Kitty Blancliard
Madame La Trappe . . Fanny Morant
Mrs. Fitzallen . . . Rose Massey
Mr. Simpson .... Frank Mackay
Mr. Bromley G. F. Rowe
Foster F. W. Sanger
Servant C. W. Collins
Followed by the second and third acts of Flotow's new opera, " L'Ombra " — Gina, Adelaide Randall; Vespina, Miss M. HoSmann; Fabrizio, Sig. Benfratelli ; Miraut, Sig. Tagliapietra. The performance to conclude with a minstrel enter- tainment by Dan Bryant's Minstrels, in which W. Dwyer, Dave Reed, W. Ray- mond, J. W. McAndrews, C. Templeton and J. J. Kelly appear.
" Amos Clarke " was acted here June 10 by a dramatic company, and Mrs. Geo. Rignold (n^e Maria Henderson) made her American debut.
The Kiralfy Brothers appeared here Aug. 28, with " Around the World in Eighty Days." Owen Marlowe acted Phineas Fogg; Harry Rainforth, Passepartout; Minnie Conway, Aouda; John W. Jennings, Fix; Alex. Fitzgerald, O'Pake; Dora Goldthwaite, Nemea; and Kate Fraser Fox, Nakahira. Owen Marlowe made his last appearance on the New York stage Sept. 11, 1875, as Phineas Fogg. He then went to the Globe Theatre, Boston, and was a member of that company up to the time of his death. He made his last appearance on the stage in the Academy of Music, Chelsea, Mass., April i, 1876, acting Talbot Champneys in "Our Boys." He died May 19 of that year, in the Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston.
The opera season began Oct. 18, with "Les Huguenots," Wachtel as Raoul, and Mme. Pappenheim as Jeannette. Emma Kerster, Bruno Guenzburger, Adolph Fanosch, Josef Fassben- der, and Julius Milden were also in the cast. Wachtel appeared Oct. 20 as Chaplon in "Le Postilion de Lonjumeau;" Oct. 25, "The Jewess" ("La Juive") was sung; Nov. 4 benefit of the Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum was given. The season closed Dec. 4.
Mile. Terese Tietjens made her first appearance in Italian opera in America Jan. 24, 1876, as Norma, Miss Beaumont as Adelgisa, Sig. Baccie (first appearance in New York) as Pollio, Sig. Rajna as Oroveso. Brignoli (after an absence of three years) appeared Jan. 31, as Genarro in " Lucrezia Borgia. " Tietjens appeared as Leonora in "La Traviata," Feb. 11, for the first time in America; Feb. 14, "II Barbiere di Seviglia," with Adelaide Phillips as Rosina, Signorina Lamberti (first appearance) as Rosta, Tom Karl as Almaviva, Ferranti (first appearance) as Figaro. The season closed Feb. 19.
Clara Louise Kellogg commenced with an English opera com.
8o A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1876
pany Feb. 28, 1876, in "Martha." "The Star of the North" had its first representation here in English, March 3, Kellogg as Cat- tarina; Mme. Julia Rosewald (first appearance), Miss Lancaster, Conly, Peakes, Allen, and Maas were in the company. They closed March 11, with "The Rose of Castile."
The French company opened for three nights March 21. Eu- genie Pappenheim made her debut in Italian opera April 7, as Violetta, in "La Traviata." Terese Tietjens took her farewell benefit April 10, when selections were given from Italian, Ger- man, and English operas. Anna de Bolocca made her American debut April 17, as Rosina, in "II Barbiere di Seviglia," with Tom Karl as Almaviva. "Cinderella," by children, for the benefit of the Women's Centennial Union, was given (matinee), April 20. The season closed April 26, when Anna de Bolocca appeared as Mignon for the first time in America. Fanny Kellogg then made her first appearance on any stage as Filina.
A performance of " Hamlet " took place April 24, with the Count Joannes as the melancholy Dane. The house was the scene of unprecedented confusion and excitement, noise, ridicule, and laughter. There were about one thousand persons present who were resolved to be amused, and although mischievous enough, they were good-natured, applauded ironically, condemned kindly, encouraged insincerely, recalled the Ghost cruelly. The house was convulsed with incessant laughter. Instead of bouquets, foot- stools were thrown on the stage. So exuberant were the auditors that Count Joannes advanced to the footlights, just before the fencing scene in the fifth act, and said : " Remember, this is the Academy of Music. Prove yourselves gentlemen." The com- pany was about the worst ever collected, and seemed to have per- sonal grievances against Shakespeare. So far as the Count was concerned, those that came to scoff remained to praise, for his performance of Hamlet possessed intelligence, sincerity, earnest- ness, and gentleness, and there was nothing in his personation that deserved ridicule. He acted as a scholar, and, in despite of much provocation, behaved himself as a gentleman. Blanche Osborne was the Ophelia.
A season of English opera commenced June 5, with Jeffries & Co. as the managers. The occasion was the debut of Gertrude Corbett as Norma. Alice Hosmer as Adelgisa, Christine Fritsch as Pollio, Alcain Blum as Oroveso ; Caryl Florio was conductor. The " season " terminated June 8. On July 8 a benefit was given for the Central Dispensary of this city. George Rignold came all the way from San Francisco, Cal., to play Romeo, and he returned to that city in time to sail July 16 for Australia. He travelled a distance of nearly 7,000 miles to keep his word for charity. "Romeo and Juliet" was acted, with this cast:
18773
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8l
Romeo Geo. Rignold
Nurse Mary Wells
Balthazar H. J. Hayward
Mercutio Louis Aldrich
Friar Lawrence . . . . H. Weaver
Benvolio H. B. Bradley
Capulet G. B. Waldron
Juliet Sara Jewett
Lady Capulet . . Mrs. H. Weaver Apothecary .... Chas. Bansley
Page Kate Livingstone
Peter J. M. Herbert
Tybalt ^ E. K. Collier
Paris James H. McGee
A season of Italian opera commenced Oct. 2, with "Norma." Mme. Maria Palraieri made her New York debut, and it was also the first appearance in this city of Persiani as Adelgisa; Sig. Palmieri was the Pollione; Conly made his first appearance in Italian opera as Oroveso. The season terminated Oct. 7. Marie Aimee appeared Oct. 23 in "La Jolie Parfumeuse," which was repeated Oct. 24 and (matinee) Oct. 25. She also introduced her English song and dance, "Pretty as a Picture." "La Fille de Mme. Angot " was given Oct. 25. The Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum had a benefit, afternoon and evening, Nov. 26. The attrac- tion was "The Two Orphans," "Forbidden Fruit," "Jenny Lind," "The Irish Lion," Kelly & Leon's Minstrels, Harrigan and Hart and several specialty artists. A concert season opened Nov. 27, under the management of James W. Morrissey, withTheo. Thomas' orchestra; Emma Thursby, Mme. Gulager, Anna Drasdil, Brig- noli, Chas. Fritsch, Ferranti, Madeline Schiller, Carreno Sauret, Gustave Satter, and S. B. Mills were the artists. A performance on Thanksgiving night was for the benefit of the new Church of St. Agnes.
The Clara Louise Kellogg English Opera company commenced Jan. 23, 1877, in "The Bohemian Girl;" Jan. 24, "Faust;" Jan. 26, 27, (first times in English), "The Flying Dutchman;" Jan. 29, "Martha;" Jan. 31, "The Star of the North;" Feb. 6, "Lucia;" Feb. 9, "Mignon," and closed (matinee) Feb. 10, with "Faust." The organization consisted of Clara Louise Kellogg, Julia Rose- wald, Joseph Maas, Geo. A. Conly, C. H. Turner, Zelda Seguin, William Carleton, Henry Peakes, Edward Seguin, Cayla, Holland, Tams, Misses Lancaster and Howard. What was termed a Wagner festival commenced March 12, under the management of J. C. Fryer, with "The Flying Dutchman," Eugenie Pappenheim as Senta, Miss Cooney as Mary, Christine Fritsch as Eric, FelixT Preusser as Daland, A. Blum as the Flying Dutchman; March 14 " Lohengrin " was sung, with the American d6but in opera of G. Werrengrath as Lohengrin. Clara Pou joined the company. "The Flying Dutchman "was repeated March 16; "Lohengrin" (matinle) March 17; " Tannhauser " was sung March 19, 21, 23. " Die Walkiire " was given April 2 for the first time in America, and with this cast :
VOL. II. — 6
82 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1877
Brunnhilde . . Eugenie Pappenheim Sleglinde .... Pauline Canissa
Siegmund A. BischofE
Wotan Felix Preusser
Fricka Mme. Listner
Gerhilde Frida de Gebel
Hundling A. Blum
The festival closed April 3. Adolph Neuendorff was musical conductor.
The Havana Opera company opened April 6, 1877, in "IlTrova- tore," under Albites & Palmieri. Mme. Palmieri, Mile. Rambelli, Signori Celado, Bartolasi, and D'Al Negro, and Mile. March were in the company. Max Maretzek was conductor. They closed April 21. Maurice Grau took a benefit June 18, when Aimee sang, in English, " Pretty as a Picture ; " the second act of Offenbach's " La Boulangere a des ficus ; " third act of " La Vie Parisienne " ("Life in Paris"), and second act of "La Fille de Mme. Angot," with an exceptionally novel and remarkable cast, all the characters being reversed. The female characters were performed by the gentlemen, the male characters by the ladies. The cast was :
Ange Pitou Aimee
Larivaudure . . . Mile. Gueymard The Officer .... Mile. Letillier Clairette Mr. Raoult
Pomponnet Dupan
Lonchard Desiree
Trenitz Vaudame
Mile. Lange Duplan
A testimonial matinee was given Oct. 12 for the benefit of the widow of Edwin Adams, and the following was the programme: Overture, "William Tell," Gilmore's Band; recitation by Regina Dace; comic songs, Tony Pastor; piano solo, S. B. Mills; "The School for Scandal " (screen scene) : Sir Peter Teazle, John Gil- bert; Charles Surface, Edward Arnot; Joseph Surface, Geo. F. Devere; Lady Teazle, Rose Coghlan; Joseph's servant, Mr. Peck. Musical selections by the Eagle Theatre orchestra, directed by Henry Wannemacher; duet, William Castle and Henry Peakes (orchestra directed by Sig. Operti); the midget. General Mite; imitations, Charles Backus; first act of "Struck Oil": John Stoffel, James C. Williamson; Lizzie Stoffel, Maggie Moore (Mrs. J. C. Williamson); Susan Stoffel, Mrs. Sol Smith; Eben Skinner, H. A. Weaver, Sr. ; Sergt. Flynn, J. J. Sullivan ; Cor- poral Sharp, Sol Smith. Popular airs of the period, by the Union Square Theatre orchestra, directed by H. Tissington ; " Chanson- ette Nouvelles." "Les Legons D'Anglais" (English Lessons); Marie Aimee's orchestra, conducted by M. Almeras; "Camille" (fourth act): Camille, Clara Morris; Armand Duval, McKee Rankin; De Varville, J. W. Carroll; Gaston, Wm. R. Floyd; Gustave, E. M. Holland; Prudence, Mrs. John Sefton; Olympe, Josephine Baker. Next came the third act of "Othello": the Moor, E. A. Sothern; lago, W. J. Florence; Cassio, H. Crisp; Desdemona, Lotta; Emelia, Mrs. John Drew. The sketch called
I877D ACADEMY OF MUSIC 83
"The Crushed Actors," by Harrigan and Hart; Bryant's Min- strels, in a first part; Dutch sketch, songs and dances by Bobby Newcomb; the singing of "Auld Lang Syne" closed the enter- tainment. The treasurer was Theo. Moss; stage manager, Leon J. Vincent. The ushers were Henry E. Abbey, W. R. Deutsch, Jas. H. Meade, H. Wall, J. G. Peakes, Morris Simmonds, J. J. Sullivan, Chandos Fulton, S. F. McGraw, Thos. E. Morris, Louis Aldrich, and Stanley McKenna. The total amount received by the committee was 110,099.17; the amount of expenses paid by them, ^718.16; and the sum paid to Mrs. Adams, 1^9,381. 01. Mrs. Edwin Adams received the following donations: T. W. Davey's combination, ;^ioo; B. McCauley, Cincinnati, 1^250; J. W. Albaugh from benefit performance in Albany, $^2^. $0. Many of the New York newspapers advertised the benefit without charge. The Domestic Sewing Machine company sent to Mrs. Adams a sewing machine valued at ^70. It will be perceived that a fund of over ;^io,ooo, clear of all expenses, was raised for Mrs. Adams by this benefit. W. J. Florence, ;$ioo; E. A. Sothern, $560; box donated and resold for ;?I25, making a total of 1^685; Theo. Moss, $7$; E. Lanouette, 1^50; Maggie Mitchell, ^100; Judge Curtis, $SO; Dr. Charles Phelps, $2$; E. A. Buck, $$0; Tony Pastor, ^160; check from Elmira, ^100; Henry E. Abbey, $100; W. R. Deutsch, box donated and resold for ^55; E. G. Gilmore, ;gso;
check (an admirer, Mr. S ), $50; Robert Heller, box donated
and resold, $50; William Van Tassell, $■^0; eight hundred and eighty seats at $5 each, 1^2,640; thirty -one first row boxes at ;^20 each, ;^620; thirty-eight second and third row boxes at $15 each, and less exchanges and seats sold at $1 each, ;^ 187. 83; eighteen boxes at ;^ip, ;^i8o; fifty-two boxes at 1^2.50, $130; four hundred and fifty-eight gallery seats at ^1.50, ^687; eleven hundred and seventeen admissions, ^1,117; premiums on seats, $24; J. C. Williamson (two gallery seats), jjlioo; Arthur Cheney, ;^ioo; W. G. Fargo (four orchestra seats), |Sioo; Frank Mayo, ^50; E. L. Anderson, ^50; Mrs. Morrison's company, Toronto, Ont., ;^27; Charles E. Leland, $2$; Milton Nobles' combination, $2$; William Winter, $5; Mrs. J. W. Buckland, $$; "Luke Fielding," $S; "Donation," $2$; Chestnut Street Theatre benefit, Phila- delphia, Oct. 12, $722; Thomas B. McDonough, $2^; Dwight Amsden, Detroit, Mich., $s; Henry Ashley (one admission ticket), ;^20; Dominick Murray, ;jSio; Grand Opera House (C. J. Whitney), Detroit, Mich., 1^50.30; Flower-stand in Academy on day of performance, the Misses Jean Burnside and Nellie Morti- mer, ^^52.87; Alice Oates Opera Bouffe company, ;^ioo; satin pro- grammes, j^iSi; Pittsburg Opera House benefit, Oct. 17, 1^805.
"Bobby" Newcomb, who appeared at the Adams benefit, died at Tacoma, W. T., June i, 1888, of pneumonia. His right name was
84
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 1:1877
Robert Hughes, and he was born in England in 1843. He took the name of Newcomb in i860, being the protege of William New- comb, the well-known minstrel performer. He wrote many popu- lar songs, among them " The Big Sunflower, " " Where the Tansies Grow," "The Ivy Leaf," etc., and he was the author of a poem called "Dorkin's Night."
On Oct. 13, 1877, there was presented for the first time in America, A. F. Leiss' American comedy, "Married and Not Married," with this cast.
Capt. Vander Smissen Walter Adrian
Frank Merit > ~ . R.-thprs J Mr. Carrington
Fred Merit ^ Twin Brothers | Geo. Talbot
Mimosa Vander Smissen Miss E. Sommers
Ching Cliung Frank Tannehill, Jr.
White Feather Geo. Fredericks
Lucy Daly Imogene Vandyke
The Hen Skeleton . Prof. Tapir Thomas . Pompy Crazy Male Maria . . Jane . .
A. G. Ford
John E. Ince
. J. W. Burton
. Geo. T. James
. . F. Thornton
Lizzie McCall
Miss L. Dickinson
Giocomo J. F. deGez
Benaventura . . . Thos. Whiffen Father Ortel . . . . T. E. Morris
Tuck Edwin Nalord
Sappho Kate Singleton
Katherine Georgie Lee
The play was a bad one, and one performance ended its career.
Emma Thursby gave a concert Oct. 29. Brignoli, S. B. Mills, Theo. Thomas' orchestra, and Geo. W. Colby, accompanist, appeared.
Nov. I the annual Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum benefit took place :
Benito . . . . Walter . . . Montgomery Isabella . . . Miss Montague Miss Frazer . . Miss Lippincott
H
C. J. FyfFe B. Bradley . . E. Locke . Kate Byron
Miss Ellis Miss Williams . Miss Telbin
Leonard . . . . ^ . Fred Percy Daniel Webster ... E. Marble Hero .... Oliver Doud Byron
Sallie Minnie Gray
Miss Casethire .... Miss Laird Miss Jenkins .... Miss Bogart
The evening performance commenced with Harry Clarke in Irish eccentricities, followed by Murphy and Shannon in Dutch specialties; Louise Murio, balladist; Clarke Bros, in musical act; Will H. Morton, comic songs; Harrigan, Hart, and Billy Gray in sketch of "The Bradys," with Dave Braham as leader of the or- chestra; Lotta in "Nan the Good for Nothing;" Tom Porter in comic songs, S. B. Mills, pianist; the farce of "The Rough Dia- mond," with Sydney Cowell as Margery and Ed. Lamb as Cousin Joe. Next came a pantomime, "Robert Macaire," Jas. F. Mafflitt as Robert, W. H. Bartholomew as Bertrand, and the other char- acters by the Olympic Theatre company. After this "A Regular Fix was done, with this cast :
1877]
ACADEMY OF MUSIC
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Hugh de Brass Surplus . . Mrs. Carter . Abel Quick .
. E. A. Sothern
George Holland
. Alice Mansfield
. Ed. L. Marble
Emily . . . . Charles Surplus . Matilda Jane
This was followed by the first act of " Fanchon '
Fanchon .... Maggie Mitchell Father Barbeaud . . J. H. Stoddart Didier Geo. Becks
Mother Barbeaud Landry Barbeaud Mother Fadet .
Mabel Jordan
. Harry Lacy
Marie Bingham
. . Mary Wells
. . J. W. Collier
Mrs. T. J. Hind
The trial scene from " The Merchant of Venice " was given with this cast :
Shylock Edwin Booth
Salarino W. R. Floyd
Portia Agnes Booth
Salanio J. B. Polk
Nerissa Jeffries Lewis
Antonio John Gilbert
Bassanio Chas. Coghlan
The Duke .... John Parselle Gratiano James O'Neill
The third act of " Monte Cristo " was seen and cast thus :
Edmond Dantes Nortier . ^ . Caderousse . . Brigadier . . .
. Chas. Fechter . . F. B. Warde . Chas. Leclercq C. D. Bainbridge
Albert De MorcefE . B. T. Ringgold
Villefort W. G. Cogswell
Carconte Alice Gray
The balcony scene from " Romeo and Juliet " came next : Juliet, Modjeska; Romeo, W. F. Burroughs. Concluding with the farce "To Oblige Benson": Trotter Southdown, Harry Beckett; Mr. Benson, J. W. Shannon; Mrs. Southdown, EfSe Germon; Mr. Meredith, W. A. Eytinge ; Mrs. Benson, Stella Boniface. Lester Wallack was director, W. R. Floyd, stage manager, and Theo. Moss, treasurer.
The evening performance commenced with "A Sheep in Wolf's Clothing " :
Master Jasper Carew Col. Percy Kirke . Kester Chedzoy Col. Lord Churchill
Eben Plympton J. W. Shannon E. M. Holland W. J. Leonard
Corporal Flintoff . . . D. Vanderen
Anne Carew Ada Dyas
Dame Carew .... Mme. Ponisi Keziah Effie Germon
Next came the first act of " Jane Eyre " :
Jane Eyre Clara Morris
Prof. Brocklehurst . . J. C. Dunn Mrs. Reed .... Jenny Carroll
Bessie Helen Vincent
Capt. Whitfield . . . Geo. F. Browne John Reed . . . . H. Pearson, Jr.
Sig. Brignoli followed with a romanza from "Martha;" the Kernell Brothers and Watson and Ellis did specialty acts. The
third act of " Othello '
Othello .... John McCuUough
Cassio Eben Plympton
Emilia Rose Coghlan
lago Frank Mayo
Desdemona .... Maud Granger
86
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSyS
First act of " Micawber " was the next attraction :
WUkins Micawber . . Geo. F. Rowe Traddles .... Geo. F. Giddens Betsy Trotwood Mrs. Julia Chapman
Uriah Heap . . David Copperfield Mrs. Micawber .
F. F. Mackay W. A. Eytinge . Mrs. Thorpe
The dagger scene from "The Wife" was seen: Julien St. Pierre, Frederic Robinson; Duke, Eben Plympton. After this was an olio, in which Prof. S. Murdoch recited (in costume) Burk's " Have at Ye All."
The tenth annual benefit of the B. P. O. Elks took place Thurs- day afternoon, Nov. 15; Frank Girard and Leon J. Vincent were stage managers. The programme consisted of Bryant's Min- strels; fourth act of "Camille;" Clara Morris as the heroine, James O'Neill as Armand; Lotta in the first act of "Musette;" Mary Anderson in the potion scene from "Romeo and Juliet." "The Toodles " closed the entertainment:
Toodles . . George Acorn Farmer Acorn Landlord . . Mary Acorn . Farmer Acorn
John T. Raymond . . Frank Mayo . W. H. Bailey John McCuUough . Lillie Eldridge . C.W.Couldock
Charles Fenton First Farmer Second Farmer Third Farmer Mrs. Toodles .
. G. F. Rowe D. H. Harkins J. W. Collier . J. B. Polk Sydney Cowell
Two performances were given Thanksgiving (Nov. 29) for the bene- fit of St. Cecilia church. Janauschek, Rose Eytinge, Rose Coghlan, James O'Neill and Emma Waller were among the volunteers.
John Brougham had a benefit afternoon and night of Jan. 17, 1878, which netted him ;^9,394.4i; another benefit occurred at Wallack's Theatre, (matinee), Feb. 14, which netted ;^884.is. These amounts were invested in an annuity for Mr. Brougham, from which he received ;^28 per week, and of this sum he paid James Ship ^10 weekly, which left only ;^i8 to defray the weekly expenses of his household — two persons besides himself. The annuity was payable quarterly, and the last quarter he did not receive, as he died before it had become due — July i. He had been a poor man and in distress for some months prior to his death, but these facts he studiously concealed from his friends. It is generally thought that the investing of the ;^ 10,000 benefit fund in an annuity was an unwise proceeding considering Brougham's age. He received only about ;^2,ooo, and the remainder became the property of the New York Life Insurance company at his death, which occurred June 7, 1880.
A season of opera commenced Feb. 11, with Eugenie Pappen- heim, Chas. Adams, Miss Alexandre Human, Mme. E. Ruders- dorff, Adelaide Phillips, Miss E. Grimminger, Miss M. Cooney, C.^l<ntsch, A. Blum, H. Wiegand. and the Minzelli Sisters, pre- miere danseuses in the company. " Les Huguenots " was the first opera sung, Alexandre Human making her New York dgbut in the
18793
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87
r61e of the Queen, and Mme. Rudersdorff (first appearance) as Ortrud. "The Jewess," Feb. 15; " Lohengrin " (matinge), Feb. 16, 27, Pappenheim as Elsa; Feb. 18, " Tannhauser ; " "II Trova- tore," Feb. 20, 23, Adelaide Phillips as Azucena; "Der Flie- gende Hollander," Feb. 25; "Faust," March i; "Les Huguenots," matinde, March 2 ; " Rienzi, " March 4, with Pappenheim as Adrian Colonna, Miss Human as Irene, Chas. Adams as Cola Rienzi, A Blum as Paolo, H. Wiegand as Steffano, and the season closed March 9.
"The Wife's Appeal " was acted for the first time on any stage, April 29. Fred Chippendale, Archie Cowper, H. W. Mitchell, Marion Talbot (her debut), Madame Ivan Michels, and Clara Cole in the cast.
Eugenie Pappenheim gave a " farewell " concert May 30. Thomas Donaldson took a benefit June 25. J. H. Mapleson commenced a season of Italian opera Oct. 16, with "La Somnambula," Cam- panini as Elvino, Foli as Conte Rodolfi. Minnie Hauck appeared Oct. 18 as Violettain "La Traviata."
Bizel's "Carmen" was first sung in America Oct. 23, with Minnie Hauck in the title r61e.
Etelka Gerster, the Hungarian prima donna, made her Ameri- can debut Nov. 11 as Amina in "La Somnambula;" Nov. 9 "The Talisman " was presented, and the season closed Dec. 28. A matinee performance, Feb. 21, 1879, was for the benefit of Neil Bryant, and the following was the entertainment presented : The closet scene from "Hamlet," Master N. S. Wood as Hamlet, Harry Colton as the Ghost, Mrs. Louisa Eldridge, the Queen; the farce, "To Oblige Benson," with Effie Germon, Kate Bartlett, J. W. Shannon, and J. Farland in the cast. The San Francisco Minstrels came next, led by Wm. Birch, Charles Backus, and George Thatcher; "Her Majesty's Ship Pinafore": Josephine, Blanche Corelli; Little Buttercup, Miss Gurney; Hebe, Ida Foy; Sir Joseph, J. H. Burnett ; Captain Corcoran, J. H. Peakes ; Ralph Rackstraw, Henri Laurent; Dick Deadeye, A. D. Barber.
A season of opera commenced Feb. 24, with " Lucia di Lam- mermoor," Campanini as Edgardo, Etelka Gerster as Lucia. "Ruy Bias" was produced March 14. The season terminated April 5.
Max Maretzek reopened the house Sept. 25, for the production of his American opera, "Sleepy Hollow," with this cast:
Katrina . . Brom Bones . Ichabod Crane
Miss A. Montague
. . Chas. Turner
. W. C. Gardion
Frau Spuyten . . Mrs. Rice- Knox Van Ness H. Fink
This opera kept the stage until Oct. i, when Bianca Lablanche (Blanche Davenport) made her operatic d^but in America, " The
88 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE tisyg
Two Peters" was first acted here Oct. 6, and the season terminated.
The season of 1879-80 opened Oct. 20, with "La Traviata" Runcio (first appearance) as Alfredo, Galassi as Germont, Monti as Medico, and Emilie Ambre (first appearance) as Violetta. " Carmen " was produced Oct. 27, with Selina Dolaro as Carmen (her first appearance in this city). This lady died in New York, Jan. 23, 1889, of consumption. "Fashion," the only play ever produced in this country by Mme. Dolaro, was first performed Dec. 19, 1887, at the Madison Square Theatre. It was played again at Wallack's Theatre, Dec. 28, 1887. In addition to being an opera bouffe singer, Mme. Dolaro was an authoress of considerable merit, and not only a singer of capacity and culture, but she was an effective and instructive actress.
The annual benefit of the B. P. O. Elks took place Nov. 13, 1879. The B. P. O. Elks, whose "benefits" are so often recorded here, came into existence in this simple manner. One stormy afternoon (early in 1868) a few friends met in the house of one of their num- ber, in the Bowery, and spent a pleasant afternoon. Among the party were John F. Poole, Thomas Grattan Riggs, George F. McDonald, Tony Pastor, Billy Sheppard, and Claude Goldie. When they separated they agreed to meet the following Sunday afternoon, at the same place. They met, and their number so increased with each succeeding meeting that they formed them- selves into an organization, and called it the Benevolent Pro- tective Order of Elks. On Feb. 16, 1868, the order was formally instituted. Among the earliest members were Henry P. O'Neil, Hugo O'Neil, Gen. Joseph Pinckney, and Thomas Gayner. It was decided that the sessions should be divided into two parts, the one business and the other social. The meetings were held Sunday evenings. The first presiding officer was Charles Vivian, the comic singer, formerly a member of " The Jolly Corks, " of Phila- delphia. Feb. 16, 1868, they received a charter from the New York Legislature as a corporate society. The order at that time held their meetings every Sunday evening at Military Hall, on the east side of the Bowery, near Spring Street. Their next place of meeting was over Helmbold's drug store, 594 Broadway, where they were burned out early in the summer of 1872. The writer of this tendered the order the free use of his two parlors in his private residence, 718 Broadway, and there the order held its meet- ings for some time. Their next rendezvous was Masonic Hall, in Thirteenth Street, near Fourth Avenue, and now known as Claren- don Hall. From there they went to the hall over Koster & Bial's, Twenty-third Street, a few doors west of Sixth Avenue. They took possession Sunday, Nov. 2, 1879. Their next move was to 1,227 Broadway, northeast corner of Twenty-seventh Street, and
i88o2 ACADEMY OF MUSIC 89
next to Tuxedo Hall, Fifty-ninth Street and Madison Avenue, and in October 1902, to Pabst building, Fifty-eighth Street and Eighth Avenue, where they still remain.
Among the presiding officers of the New York Lodge have been Chas. Vivian, Geo. W. Thompson, Geo. J. Green, Henry P. O'Neil, Frank Girard, Louis C. Waehner, John J. Tindale, A. C. More- land, Michael Malone, John J. Spies, James J. Armstrong, Thomas P. Brogan, Henry P. Mulvaney, Edward Leach, and Champe S. Andrews. They purchased a large burial plot in Evergreens cem- etery, which they dedicated June i, 1879. The Elks' Mutual Benefit Association was organized Dec. 29, 187S. The objects of the order are the " relief of the sick and needy, and the burial of the dead."
Mme. Marimon, the French prima donna, made her American debut in opera at the Academy of Music, Dec. 3, and the operatic season closed Dec. 27, with " Faust. " The annual benefit of the Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum took place Dec. 11. The enter- tainment was under the management of L. J. Vincent, and was afternoon and evening. It consisted of the following: For the matinee, "Poor Jo," by N. S. Wood and others; J. K. Emmet and company, in " Fritz in Ireland ; " " Miss Multon " (third act), by Clara Morris; Harrigan and Hart in "The Mulligan Guards' Christmas;" the Merritt Bros., Wilkinson Bros. , and Flora Moore; "The Strategists," by Clinton Hall's company. The evening's entertainment was the farce of "Did You Ever.'" "Richelieu" (fourth act), by Edwin Booth and others ; " Camille " (fourth act), by Mme. Majeroni; recitation of "Shamus O'Brien," by George Clarke ; ballad by Ella Montezo ; balcony scene, " Romeo and Juliet," Helen Ottolengui (first appearance in New York), Juliet; Gus- tavus Levick, Romeo. Harry Osborne and wife in Irish sketch ; the Irish bagpipes by Thos. F. Kerrigan; reel dance by Wm. Cronin, concluding with " The Galley Slave " (second act), intro- ducing Emily Rigl, Maud Granger, and others.
P. S. Gilmore's new anthem, "Columbia," was first given here (matinee) Dec. 25. Emma Thursby was the soloist; Algernon S. Sullivan, orator; Geo. VandenhofE, elocutionist. There was the orchestra, composed of Mapleson's Opera company, Koster & Bial's, and Gilmore's Bands, together with a powerful chorus, Levy, solo cornetist, and others. After an encore Mr. Sullivan came forward and suggested that the last verse of "Columbia," — "the prayer" — should be sung by the entire audience, and in- stantly three thousand persons rose to their feet, and joining with the orchestra and chorus, rolled out with magnificent effect the stirring strain. The Martha Washington Reception of St. John's Guild, for the benefit of the Seaside Nursery occurred Jan. 20, 1880. The attraction was a historical representation of Benjamin
90 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSSo
Franklin at the Court of France, in four tableaux, arranged by L. J. Vincent. P. S. Gilmore appeared with his band, and gave "Columbia."
A spring season of Italian opera commenced March i, with " Lucia di Lammermoor," Mile. Marie Marimon (first appearance in New York in the character) as Lucia. A dramatic and musical entertainment, organized by Edwin Booth and directed by Henry E. Abbey, took place March 4, in aid of The Herald Irish Relief Fund. Ole Bull, Annie Louise Cary, Campanini, Edwin Booth, (in third act of " Hamlet," third act of " Othello," and the whole of "The Taming of the Shrew ") was the programme. " II Trovatore" was given March 22, with Brignoli as Manrico, Mile. Alwina Valeria (first appearance in that character in New York) as Leonora. " La Forza Del Destino " was sung March 23, with Campanini as Don Alvaro (first appearance in that character) ; Mme. Marie Swift as Leonora (first appearance). " Dinorah " was given March 24, and the season closed April 17, with "Les Huguenots."
Maurice Grau's French Opera company reappeared May 3, in "Mignon," and closed May 28. "La Princesse de Trebizonde" was given May 7, for the first time in seven years. A final season of eight nights and one matinee commenced May 18, with "La Vie Parisienne." "Pomme D'Api " had its first production in America May 20, when "Les Chevaliers Du Pince-Nez," with Mile. Angele as Fauvette (first time), was also revived. "La Camaigo " was given (matinde) May 22 ; " Les Cloches De Corne- ville " was sung May 24. M. Capoul took a farewell benefit May 25, when was presented first act "Le Pr6s Aux Clercs," second act "Le Postilion de Lonjumeau" and second and third acts of "Mig- non." Constantine Sternberg, Russian pianist, assisted by Gott- hold Carlberg's orchestra, made his American debut Oct. 7.
Mapleson commenced a season of Italian opera Oct. 18, with "Lucia di Lammermoor." Ravelli made his debut as Edgar; Gerster (first appearance in two years) as Lucia. Oct. 22 " Faust " was sung, when Franco Novara made his New York debut as Meph- istopheles. "Carmen" was given Oct. 27. "Un Ballo in Mas- chera," Nov. 3, with the first appearance of Marie L. Swift in the character of Oscar, and the first appearance of Mme. Bianca Mon- tesini as Amelia. The season closed Nov. 24, with "Lucia."
The annual benefit of the Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum took place Nov. 16. The matinee performance consisted of Rice's Sur- prise Party in "Revels;" "The Mulligan Guard Picnic," byHarri- gan and Hart and company; Gilmore's Band; "As You Like It," by Wallack's Theatre company; Harry Kennedy, ventrilo- quist; violin solo, by Carl Langer; cornet solo, the Bent Bros.; the French Twin Sisters in songs and dances, and finished with the farce, "Two Gentlemen in a Fix," by W. F. Owen and W.
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Davidge, Jr. The evening programme was " East Lynne " (fourth act), with Annie Ward Tiffany as Mme. Vine ; " Cool as a Cucum- ber;" recitation, "Mother and Poet," by Julia Evarts; "Marble Heart;" recitation by Harry Edwards; "Macbeth" (sleep walking scene), by Julia Evarts; recitation of "Lochinvar," by John J. Car- dan ; monologue entertainment by little Allie Dorrington ; humor- ous songs by S. A. L. Bentley, and the first act of "Tony O'Dowd," by Wm. J. Scanlan and company.
The house was now rented by Rial & Draper, for "Uncle Tom's Cabin," commencing at the matinee, Dec. 25.
The Shakespeare-Poe Festival was an entertainment given April 23, 1881, for the benefit of the Poe Memorial Fund. Blanche Roosevelt appeared , with song ; recitation of "At Poe's Grave," by Willie Winter, was given by Sara S. Rice, of Baltimore; "The Wonder," by Wallack's Theatre company; harp solo by Maud Morgan ; recitations by Miss N. V. Wickham, Mary F. Thompson, and Genevieve Stebbins, and an address by Algernon S. Sullivan.
Tomaso Salvini reappeared May 9 in "dthello;" May 11, "Mac- beth;" May 13, "The Gladiator;" matinee, May 14, "Othello." H. Weaver, Ellie Wilton, Marie Prescott, and Harry Crisp were members of his company. This house was reopened, Sept. 3, by the Kiralfy Bros., with "Michael Strogoff," which had this cast:
The Czar .... Harry Gwynette
Feofar Geo. Harmon
Grand Duke F. Munroe
Ezekiah .... Geo. R. Edeson
Harry Blunt A. Thomas
Dr. Massili S. Morton
Gen. Kissolf . . . H. Montgomery Sangarre Ada Neilson
Michael Strogoff . . . W. Rignold
Ivan Chas. Chappelle
Dombroosky . . . . A. H. Denham
Muravieff -J- Cox
Telegraph Operator . J. W. Bankson
Vladimir L. Steele
High Priest . . . . D. H. Adams
Nadia Ellie Wilton
Marfa Mrs. J. L. Carhart
This was the American d^but of William Rignold and Ada Neilson. Mapleson commenced his opera season Oct. 17, with "Lohengrin." In the company were Marie Varpot, Alvina Valeria, Virginia Ferri, Miles. Salviati, Dotti, Valerga, Ricci, Climence Kalas, Mme. Lablache, Mile. Lauri, Minnie Hauck (first appearance in three years), Signors Ravelli, Bielette, M. Prevost, Runcio, Rinaldini, Campanini, Del Puente, Morini, Glassi, Novara, Monti, Moro, Corsini, Costa, and Sig. Arditi, conductor. The B. P. O. Elks took a benefit matinde, Nov. 17. The opera season closed at the matinee, Dec. 24.
Sig. Rossi appeared Jan. 17, 1882, in "King Lear." He deliv- ered a portion of his lines in English for the first time in New York. Jan. 18 he was seen in a new version of "Edmund Kean," acted for the first time in New York by him :
92
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dssa
Edmund Kean Rossi A Servant S. Jackson
H. R. H Leslie Gossin Helen Louise Muldener
Count Kcefeld ... H. A. Weaver Anna Danby . . . Carrie Turner
Lord Melville . . Harry Weaver, Jr. Amy .... Constance Hamblin
Solomon E. A. Eberle Gidsa .... Mrs. H. A. Weaver
Pistol W. J. Shea The Manager of Drury Lane
A Constable .... Chas. Kent Theatre . . . . W. V. Ranous Peter Patt T. F. Kelly
A professional matinee was given Jan. 24 of "Edmund Kean;" Jan. 25, "King Lear;" Jan. 26, "Othello;" Jan. 27, "Hamlet," when he closed his engagement. Rossi was unquestionably a great artist. The critics of this city differed as to his Othello. Some characterized his performance as brutal, others as a wonder- ful performance. Rossi's Hamlet was another great performance. For many years James E. Murdoch was considered the best Hamlet of the American stage. Edwin Forrest, though perhaps to the scholarly critic the greatest who ever played the part, never achieved popularity in it anywhere, save at Edinburgh, Scotland. In public favor, next to Mr. Murdoch, came Edwin L. Davenport, and next, in point of time and far greater in general appreciation, was Edwin Booth. Murdoch's Hamlet was a graceful and digni- fied •Prince. He was, however, a Hamlet whose scholastic affec- tions deprived him of anything like sympathy, and the pedantry of Mr. Murdoch's pronunciation did much to lessen the effect of his otherwise artistic elocution. It was a cold, courtly and gentle Hamlet.
The Hamlet of Forrest was gentle, but only by contrast with his more fiery moods of despair, doubt, hate, love, and anger. That E. L. Davenport's Hamlet was a wonderfully clever performance no one could deny. It had the grace of Murdoch's Hamlet, many of the traditionary beauties of that of Betterton and much of the fire of Kean. It was finished in execution. His interview with the grave-digger at Ophelia's grave has never been surpassed for easy, natural delivery of raillery and satire. Edwin Booth's Hamlet was scholastically accurate. The very ideal of the sad Prince was realized in his broad brow, bright yet thoughtful eye, his luxurious masses of dark hair, and figure of beautiful proportion and grace. The whole of his delineation of this character was gemmed with radiant beauties. He made the Prince a confiding, tenderly affec- tionate, amiable young man, with no strength of will and no par- ticular intentions, with all the keen perceptions of a sensitive heart, of liberal and refined culture, of noble and courteous breeding.
Henry Irving is one of the worst Hamlets I ever saw. He is nothing if not melodramatic. He is awkward, ungainly, and con- stantly on the verge of being grotesque. That he is a legitimate tragedian, as Americans understand the word, I deny. That he is
i88aj ACADEMY OF MUSIC 93
not such a tragedian as Shakespeare would have selected to play Hamlet, I affirm. Mr. Irving mutilated the text, rearranged sev- eral scenes, utterly and completely changed the order of certain passages, omitting lines of inestimable value as depicting the almost hysterical condition of the Prince after his first interview with the Ghost, and ending the "play scene" with a climax which I think would have astonished if not shocked Shakespeare.
E. S. Willard is another very poor representative of Hamlet. His Hamlet was fretful rather than melancholy, choleric rather than passionate. E. H. Sothern is among the latest who have attempted this wonderful part. With all his training and experi- ence as an actor Mr. Sothern cannot yet play Hamlet.
Mapelson commenced a season of Italian opera March 6, 1882, with " Mignon. " Campanini, Del Puente, Frederic, Corsini, Monti, Minnie Hauck, Emma Juch, and Mile. Lauri were in the company. "Les Huguenots" was rendered March 8; "Fidelio," March 10; "Carmen," matinee, March 11; when the subscription season terminated, a new term at popular prices commenced, which closed April 29, with "Lucia di Lammermoor. " Campanini took a farewell May 29, when, in addition to the melodrama of " The World," Campanini appeared in gems of Italian opera. There were several volunteers, including Eben Plympton and Jeffreys Lewis in the balcony scene from "Romeo and Juliet;" Minnie Palmer was seen in " My Sweetheart. " A benefit was given (matinee) June 10 for the family of George A. Conly, the baritone, who was drowned. Among those who appeared were Clara Louise Kellogg (her first appearance here in three years), Emma Juch, Emma Abbott, Sig. Tagliapietra, John T. Raymond, and Laura Don.
Mapleson commenced a season of Italian opera Oct. 16, with " I Puritani." Laura Zagury made her debut as Elvira. Ravelli acted Arturo and Glassi, Ricardo. Sig. Mierzwinski made his debut Oct. 18, as Rhadames in "A'ida. " Mile. Philomena Savio made her debut in the title rdle of "Lucrezia Borgia;" Oct. 21 "I Puritani" was sung; Oct. 23, "Rigoletto;" Oct. 27, "L'Afri- caine " (first appearance of Sig. Clodio as Vasco di Gama ; also first appearance this season of Paolina Rossini). Nov. i and matinee, " Les Huguenots " was given ; Nov. 3, 10, 20, " La Tra- viata;" matinee, Nov. 4, 8, "L'Africaine," and Nov. 6, "Lucia di Lammermoor," for the first appearance this season of Adelina Patti as Lucia, and Nicolini as Edgardo. Gabrielle Boema, mezzo soprano, made her first appearance Nov. 8. Patti acted Marguerite, in "Faust," Nov. 13. Olga Berghi and Jessie Bartlett made their debuts Nov. 18, in "Faust;" "II Barbiere di Seviglia" was sung Nov. 24, 27, and Dec. 8.
Mme. Fursch-Madi made her New York debut Dec. i as Valen- tina in "Les Huguenots." Her debut in opera was in 1871, at the
94 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSSs
Grand Opera House, Paris, as Marguerite in "Faust." At the close of her second season at the Grand Opera, she was chosen by Verdi to create the title r61e in " Aida," in the French language. The management of the grand opera were afraid to attempt the opera, which was originally produced in Cairo, Egypt, and Verdi gave the work to the Theatre Royal, Brussels, where Mme. Fursch- Madi achieved one of the greatest triumphs of her career. The opera was given seventy-two times without interruption. In 1874 she came to this country and sang in French opera, but sang only in New Orleans, La. She reappeared in America at the Metro- politan Opera House, this city, in 1894. Her last appearance in opera was at the Metropolitan on Feb. 6, as Ortruda in " Lohen- grin. " She was married three times, her last husband surviving her, together with a grown son and a daughter fourteen years of age. She was directress of Mrs. Thurber's American School of Opera for two years, but at the end of that time she became in- volved in a dispute with the directors of that institution, and finally sued them for ;^io,ooo arrears of salary and recovered judgment. She was considered one of the greatest of dramatic sopranos. William Barry and Hugh Fay, engaged the Academy of Music for Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 30) and presented "Irish Aristocracy. "
Adelina Patti appeared (matinde) Dec. 2, in " La Traviata. " Dec. 4 " William Tell " was sung ; Dec. 6 " La Traviata," matinee, Dec. 9, 12; matinee, Dec. 23, Minnie Hauck in the title r61eof "Carmen," Galassi as Escamillo. " Dinorah " was acted Dec. 11; "LaSom- nambula," Dec. 13; "Ai'da," Dec. 15, Patti as Lucia; matinee, Dec. 16, "Lohengrin," Dec. 18, 20, 29; first appearance of Mme. Scalchi as Arsace in " Semiramide ; " Dec. 22, " Linda di Cha- mounix;" matinee, Dec. 30, " L'Africaine," and the season closed (evening) Dec. 30, with " II Trovatore. " Mme. Albani was an- nounced to appear at the matinee, Jan. 12, 1883, at the third public rehearsal of the New York Symphony Society, but she did not arrive from Europe until late that evening. She, however, sang the following evening.
Minnie Hauck was born in this city, Nov. 16, 1853, and made her debut at twelve years of age, in concert in New Orleans, La. She first sang in opera in this city, at the Union League Club Theatre. The French government conferred upon her the title and insignia of Officier de 1' Academic (March 4, 1887), in rec- ognition of her distinguished services for French musical art abroad. This refers principally to her interpretation of " Carmen," "Manon," "Mignon," and other French operas in a number of European and American capitals. She is the first American artist upon whom this distinction has been conferred. Tomaso Salvini reappeared Feb. 19, 28 and matinee, Feb. 24, in "Othello;" Feb.
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21, 26, and matinee, March 3, "King Lear;" Feb. 23, March 2, "The Gladiator." He was supported by Marie Prescott, Lewis Morrison, and an English speaking company.
Mapleson commenced an opera season March 12, 1883, with Adelina Patti, Fursch-Madi, Paolina Rossini, Mme. Dotti, Sofia Scalchi, Galassi, Valerga, Mme. Albani, Signors Ravelli, Clodio, Bieletto, Frapolli, Rinaldini, Nicolini, Ciampeiellaj, Caravatti, Galassi, Monti, Ronconi, Corsini, Costa, and Durat. " Faust " was sung March 12; "Linda di Chamounix," March 14; "Lucia di Lammermoor," March 16; "Semiramide," March 19; "Rigo- letto," March 26; "La Favorita," March 28; "L'Africaine," March 30; "Semiramide," matinee, March 31; "Flying Dutch- man," April 2. Third act of " II Trovatore," first scene " Norma," second act "Dinorah," was the programme, for the benefit of the Washington and Lee University; "Semiramide," April 4; "Don Giovanni," April 5, with Patti as Zerlina, her first and only ap- pearance in the character; "Martha," matinee, April 7; "L'fitoile du Nord," April 9; "Lohengrin," April 11, Albini as Elsa, her first appearance in that character; April 13, "L'fitoile du Nord," and the season closed (matinee) April 14, with "Faust." A bene- fit was given to Mapleson, April 23, with Paolina Rossini in the title r61e of " Aida. " Albani was born in Montreal, and her par- ents were Canadian-French. Her name is Lajeunesse, She spent her early youth in Albany, N. Y. , from which city she took her name of Albani. A novel entertainment was given here June 26, consisting of "Romeo and Juliet," together with selections from Berlioz's dramatic smyphony of the same title. It was a so-called private performance, and was arranged by Sig. A. Carrano, the flute player, who made his first appearance on any stage as Romeo. This was the first time this dramatic symphony had ever been given in conjunction with the play. There was an orchestra of sixty and a full chorus. The cast was :
Romeo .... Sig. A. Carrano Mercutio .... Hamilton Harris
Benvolio Geo. S. Gray
Tybalt Harry Weaver
Peter W. J. Shea
Juliet Louise Muldener
Nurse Louisa Eldridge
Paris Harry Gale
Capulet .... John Sutherland
Apothecary L M. Schay
Page Laura Rose
Friar H. A. Weaver
Balthazar W. D. Stone
Lady Capulet . Mrs. H. A. Weaver
Mapleson commenced a season of Italian opera Oct. 22, with Adelina Patti, Eugenie Pappenheim, Raphela Pattini (first ap- pearance), Emilia Viannetti (first appearance). Mile. Dotti, Jose- phine Yorke (first appearance), Mme. Lablache, Valerga, Etelka Gerster, Signors Bettini, Perugini, Rinaldini, Nicolini, Vasselli, Sivori, Bellati, Del Puente, Galassi, Cherubini, Caracciolo, Monti', Griffanti, De Vaschetti, and Lombardelli. Mile. Brambilla was
96 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisss
premiere danseuse. " La Somnambula " was given Oct. 22, with Gerster as Amina. Gerster was in particularly good voice that night, and when she began to sing the house was absolutely silent. In fact, the stillness seemed to increase as she sang, and when she got to the higher notes people seemed to have stopped breathing. Clear as a bell her voice continued to mount, until finally it had struck the high F. It was such a wonderful feat that when she stopped the house remained silent. People were so overwhelmed that they could not recover in time to applaud. While this death-like stillness prevailed a German in the top gal- lery, aroused beyond his self-control, shouted out, "Gott in Himmel, dot vas der high F!" That brought down the house, broke the spell under which we were all enthralled, and a whirl- wind of laughter and applause followed. With her face wreathed in smiles Gerster ran off the stage.
That was not the climax, however, for, enthusiasm being now let loose, the entire audience arose and shouted and insisted upon the singer's return. She came back, flushed with triumph, and began to sing again. Again her voice mounted up as high as it had before, and this time the suspense was even greater, because it seemed impossible that she could accomplish such a wonderful performance twice in the same night ; but she was in magnificent voice and never faltered once. In fact, the second trial resulted in a greater triumph than the first; and the second high F was clearer, fuller, and more beautiful than the other.
Etelka Gerster now lives secluded from the world in a castle situated on the summit of a mountain near the city of Bologna. There she passes her days in superintending the education of her children, in reading and in needlework. Her voice is said to have lost none of its brilliant qualities, but the precarious condition of her health prevents her from even thinking of ever appearing again in public.
" Rigoletto " was sung Oct. 24. Mme. Eugenie Pappenheim re- appeared Oct. 26 in "Norma," with Sig. Falletti, a newcomer, as Pollione. Mme. G. Tiozzo made her first appearance here Oct. 31 as Azucena in "II Trovatore." Oct. 2 Mile. Pattini, Josephine Yorke, and Sig. Sivori were debutants, in "Faust," with Giovanni Perugini (Chatterton) in the title r61e. Patti made her first ap- pearance this season Oct. g. Ovide Muzin, violinist, made his debut here Oct. 17 at a symphony concert. Mme. Giglio Nordica made her debut here Oct. 26 as Marguerite in "Faust." Her right name was Lillian Norton. She went to Paris, France, and made her ddbut at the Opera House, that city, June 24, 1884, as Marguerite. She was married to Frederick A. Gower, a Providence, R. I., journalist, who went abroad for the Bell Telephone company. It is said that he lost his life by a balloon ascension in France.
1885] ACADEMY OF MUSIC 97
An amateur performance of " lolanthe " took place March 29 by the Ladies' Dramatic Union. The proceeds were for the erection of a home for chronic invalids. Minnie Seligman appeared as lolanthe. Mapleson began another season April 14 with " Linda di Chamounix," Vicini as Carlo, Galassi as Antonio, Cherubini as Prefetti, Caracciolo as Marchese, and Adelina Patti as Linda, Arditi was conductor. "Elisir d'Amore," with Gerster as Adina, was sung April 16; " Romeo e Giulietta," April 18, Nicolini as Romeo and Patti as Giulietta. "Lucia di Lammermoor," matinee, April 19. The season closed with the matinee, April 26, when Gerster sang Marguerite in " Faust. " A second performance of "lolanthe," by the amateurs, was given May 8 for the benefit of the Sheltering Arms.
The season of 1884-85 was opened Nov. 10 by Mapleson, with Adelina Patti, Ida Ricetti, Dotti, Maria Calvelli, Emma Nevada, Emma Steinbach, Laruggia, Mme. Lablache, Scalchi, Signors Car- dinali, Bassetti, Bieletto, Vicini, Emile Engel, Rinaldini, Nicolini, De Anna Vaselli, Pruetti, De Pasqualis, Cherubini, Nazzaro Manni, De Vaschetti, and Caracciolo. Arditi was conductor; Malvina Cavallazzi and Guiseppina Baretta, premieres danseuses. Mile. Steinbach made her debut Nov. 17 as Violetta in "La Tra- viata. " The Thalia Theatre company appeared Nov. 18 in "Boc- caccio," for the benefit of the Kindergarten of the Hebrew Free Schools. The Astor Place colored tragedy company gave "Damon and Pythias" Nov. 20.
Emma Nevada made her American debut Nov. 24 as Amina in "La Somnambula." The Actors' Dramatic Fund took a benefit matinee Dec. 4, and the attraction was Joseph Jefferson and com- pany in "Lend Me Five Shillings," Henry Irving, Ellen Terry, and the London Lyceum company in the fourth act of " The Mer- chant of Venice," Fanny Davenport and company in "Fedora," and Henry E. Dixey and company in "Adonis." A benefit was given Dec. 18 to A. J. Murphy, the superintendent of the house, when an operatic concert was presented. Clara Louise Kellogg (her first appearance here in six years) and members of the Mapleson opera troupe, appeared. Patti closed her engagement Dec. 19 as Annetta in "Crispino e la Comare." In March, 1885, this house was leased by William Austin, and opened, with cheap prices, on March 23. In the evening the Corinne Opera company (without Corinne) sang "The Mascot." The balance of the week the troupe appeared afternoon and evening. Mayor Grace felt compelled to interfere with Mr. Austin's plans so far as to refuse Corinne per- mission to sing in the opera proper, while allowing her to appear between the acts. His season closed April 9.
Mapleson gave six extra performances, beginning April 20 with "Semiramide," Patti in the title rdle; April 21, "La Som-
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98 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Z1BS5
nambulaj" April 22, "Der Freischutz;" April 23, "Mirella," final appearance of Adelina Patti ; April 24, " La Figlia del Reg- gimento," Emma Nevada's last appearance here; matinde, April 25, "Lucia." Martha Morton's travesty on "May Blossom "was given May 4 by amateurs, for the benefit of the Montefiore Home for chronic invalids.
Edwin Booth and Madame Ristori appeared May 7 in " Macbeth " :
Lady Macbeth Macduff . . Duncan . . Gentiewoman First Witch . Second Witch Third Witch Lennox . .
. . . Ristori . Edmund Tearle Harry A. Langdon . . Kate Clinton . . Frank Little . Marion Clifton . Fanny Gillette Geo. GriflSth
Macbeth Edwin Booth
Banquo Walter Kelly
Drunken Porter . . Edwin Cleary
Malcolm Ivan Shirley
Donalbain . . . Katherine Linyard Fleance . . . Master Chas. Thropp
Rosse Chas. A. Norris
Seyton J. B. Kaye
Mecca Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, the largest secret organization in America, took a benefit June 15 ; the following was the programme :
"Captain Mishler," with Gus Williams in title r61e; recitation, "The Wreck of the Hesperus," by Robert Mantell; piano solo by Henrietta Markstein; Gus Phillips in German eccentricities. Frank E. McNish in " Silence and Fun ; " recitation, Little Bertie Boswell, only three and a half years of age; "The Old Kentucky Home" (one act), with Frank Weston, EfBe Ellsler, and her company; recitation, Frank Mayo; song, Vernona Jarbeau; Henry T. Bryant, in scene of ventriloquism; George S. Knight, in " Dutch reminiscences ; " recitation, Harriet Webb ; tumbleroni- con and zither by D. W. Robertson and H. J. Schmalixl The receipts were $3,789. 50. '
James W. Collier was tendered a benefit afternoon and evening of June 24, and the following was the programme: afternoon, "A Conjugal Lesson," by John T. Raymond and Ida Vernon; Bar- tholdi Grand March, Solomon, orchestra conducted by the com- poser; Lillian Russell in song, "The Silver Line;" Charles T. Ellis in a selection of songs, assisted by Baby Blanche, followed by scenes from the fifth act of "Richard III.," N. C. Goodwin, Jr., Richard ; John A. Mackay as Richmond ; the trio, " Read the An- swer in the Stars," Digby Bell, Mathilde Cottrelly, and De Wolf Hopper; orchestra conducted by Sig. De Novellis; Lillian Con- way in musical morceaux. The performance concluded with a scene from "Adonis," introducing Henry E. Dixey. In the even- ing Maggie Mitchell appeared in " Fanchon ; " J. H. Stoddart in "The Long Strike;" the fourth act of "Richelieu," by Thomas W. Keene and company. During the summer many alterations were made in the house.
1886;]
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. . Sig. Ravelli
. . Del Puente
. . Mile. Dotti
Mile. Bauermeister
Minnie Hauck
II Dancairo Caracciolo
II Remendado Rinaldini
Zuniga De Vaschetti
Mercedes .... Mme. Lablache
The opera season was opened by Colonel Mapleson, Nov. 2, with " Carmen, " cast thus :
Don Jose Escamillo Michaela Paquita . Carmen .
This was Minnie Hauck's first appearance in three years. Felia Litvinoff made her American debut Nov. 6 as Leonora in "II Trovatore." Mile. Alma Fohrstrom first appeared on the Ameri- can stage Nov. 9 in the title r61e of "Lucia di Lammermoor." The season closed matinee of Nov. 28 with "Faust." Leonore Gordon Hussey, an amateur, appeared Dec. 10 in "Leah."
An Italian operatic entertainment was given Dec. 19 by Mme. Murio-Celli and several of her pupils, with the assistance of Mapleson's principal artists. Sig. Salvini and his company ap- peared Dec. 21 in "The Gladiator." The performance was to benefit the New York Exchange for Women's Work. J. H. Mapleson's benefit took place Dec. 23, when Jules Massenet's opera, " Manon, " was given for the first time in America.
The American Opera company under the conductorship of Theo. Thomas, commenced Jan. 4, 1886, with the first performance in America of "The Taming of the Shrew." In it Pauline I'Alle- mand made her American debut, and Kate Bensberg her operatic debut. This opera was repeated Jan. 6, and matinee, Jan. 9. Gluck's " Orpheus and Eurydice " was sung Jan. 8, for the first time in its entirety since 1863. It was repeated Jan. 18. "Lohen- grin " was sung Jan. 20 for the first time in English, when Wil- liam Candidus made his debut in opera; Myron Whitney appeared for the first time with this company. Emma Juch joined the organization as Elsa; Helen Hastreiter made her first appearance as Ortrud, Alonzo Stoddard (first appearance) as Telramund, and E. J. O'Mahony as the Herald. "The Magic Flute" was sung Jan. 27. "The Merry Wives of Windsor," Feb. 10-12.
" Lakme " was sung for the first time in America March i, with this cast:
Rose . . . Mrs. Benson Malika . . Hadji . .
Helen Dudley Campbell
. . . . May Fielding
Jessie Bartlett Davis
. . . W. H. Fessenden
Lakme .... Pauline I'Allemand Nilakantha .... A. E. Stoddard
Gerald W. Candidus
Frederick W. H. Lee
Ellen Charlotte Walker
"The Flying Dutchman " was heard March 17, with William Lud- wig as the Dutchman. Whitney Mockridge also made his d6but as Eric. The different operas given by the American Opera com- pany, and the number of times each was performed, are as follows : "The Taming of the Shrew," five times; "The Magic Flute,"
lOO A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D885
five; "Marriage of Jeannette," and "Sylvia," five each; "The Flying Dutchman," seven; "The Merry Wives of Windsor," nine; "Lohengrin," ten; "Lakme," eleven; and "Orpheus and Eurydice," thirteen.
John A. Mackay took a benefit afternoon of April 22, when H. E. Dixey appeared with the beneficiary in a travesty, by Sydney Rosenfeld, of the dagger scene in "Macbeth." Others who ap- peared were, Marie Aimee and her company, R. C. Hilliard, Frank Lincoln, Mae St. John, Francis Wilson, Tony Hart, Courtice Pounds, Rosina Yokes, Victoria Schilling, George Thome, and Elsie Cameron.
The Booth-Salvini company appeared April 26 in " Othello " :
Othello Tomaso Salvini
lago Edwin Booth
Emilia .... Mrs. D. P. Bowers Desdemona . . Marie Wainwright Brabantio . . . . C. W. Couldock The Doge of Venice . . Barton Hill Cassio Alexander Salvini
Montano John A. Lane
Roderigo G. W. Wilson
Lodovico James Wallis
Gratiano Alfred Hearn
Paulo E. E. Delamater
A Herald Stuart Clarke
A Messenger .... Royal Roche
Salvini's Othello showed the softness of the dove at one time, and the savagery of the tiger at the other. In its rage it was animal and African, and in its calm it was manly and human. The tragedy was given at somewhat greater length than usual here. Othello struck Desdemona in the face with the letter scroll, and the kill- ing of that lady was done first by smothering, and finished with the dagger.
" Othello " thus cast was a performance which must be recorded as one of the greatest dramatic events of the age. Edwin Booth was " incapacitated " while acting lago. May 5.
A musical and dramatic matinee was given May 6 in aid of the Bartholdi Fund to erect the Statue of Liberty. Among the volun- teers were Mrs. James Brown-Potter, Marie Wainwright, A. Sal- vini, Mme. Fursch-Madi, Louis James, Helen Dauvray, and Fanny Davenport. The latter lady sang the Marseillaise with the French choral societies.
"The Sultan of Zanzibar" was presented May 8 for the first time on any stage in French, by Chevalier De Kontski : Mme. Isadore Martinez, Mile. Ida Covani, Mr. Richard, M. Vicarino, P. Cleck, and H. Rykers in the dast. A " season " of Italian opera under the direction of Sig. Angelo opened Oct. 18 with "lone," an old opera by Petrilla. In the cast were Sig. Giannini, Mme. Mestres, Blanche Montaldo, Pogliano,and Sig. Pinto, basso. Nov. I " Un Ballo in Maschera " was sung by the same company. Nov. S the season closed prematurely. "Rigoletto" had been an- nounced for that night. It was not sung, nor was "La Juive" given Nov. 3 as billed. Business had been bad from the start,
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and there was a quarrel between Angelo and Julia Valda, the backers of the venture. Adelina Patti appeared in concert Nov. 18. Sig. Guille, a new tenor, was among those who assisted her. At the second concert, afternoon of Nov. 20, Patti sang the jewel song from " Faust. "
A charity entertainment was given afternoon and evening, Feb. 17, 1887, in aid of a fund for the new La Salle Institute of the Christian Brothers. On the afternoon of April 21 William Dav- idge took a " testimonial benefit " to celebrate his fiftieth year of constant service upon the stage, — thirty-seven years in America and thirteen years in Great Britain and Ireland. The following was the programme: Dockstader's Minstrels; Screen scene from "The School for Scandal," John Gilbert as Sir Peter Teazle, Kyrle Bellew as Charles Surface, Herbert Kelcey as Joseph Surface, Annie Robe as Lady Teazle; Mme. Janauschek and company in the death scene of "Meg Merrilies," with this cast:
Dirk Hattrick .
Meg Merrilies .... Janauschek Dandie Dinmont . . Geo. D. Chaplin Henry Bertram . . Alex. H. Stuart Colonel Guy Mannering James Garden Diiminie Sampson . . E. A. Eberle Bailie Bearcliff . . . . T. Beverly Gilbert Glosson .... Giles Shine
Beverly W. Turner
Jacob Tabos M. Brewer
Gabriel Louis Bresn
Julia Mannering . . . Marston Leigh Lucy Bertram . . . Lavinia Shannon Mrs. McCandlish . . Kate Fletcher Flora .... Josephine C. Bailey
After this came one scene from " The Love Chase " :
Sir William Fondlove
Charles Wheatleigh
Wildrake E. H. Sothem
Waller Frank Rodney
Trueworth . . . Joseph E. Whiting Humphries .... Henry Clayton
Lash Claude Brooke
Servant W. Pembroke
Widow Green Ida Vernon
Lydia Adeline Stanhope
Phoebe Percy Haswell
Constance .... Helen Dauvray
Next came second act of " Saints and Sinners " :
Letty Fletcher Jacob Fletcher Capt. Eustace .
Marie Burroughs
. J. H. Stoddart
Robert Hilliard
Ralph Kingsmill Jack Raddles . Leeson . . .
. . L. F. Massen
Henry J. HoUiday
. H. S. Millward
Mr. Davidge then addressed the audience and was followed by the second act of "The Golden Giant":
Alexander Fairfax . McKee Rankin I Jack Mason . . . Robert Hilliard Bixby Charles Stanley |
Bessie Fairfax . Mrs. McKee Rankin Ethel Gray Daisy Dorr
Then Loie Fuller and Carrie Coote gave vocal selections, and the performance concluded with the farce of "The Wandering Minstrel": ^
Jim Baggs . . Mr. Crincum . Herbert Carol . Mr. Tweedle .
William Davidge Henry Holliday . Henry Hallam
. C. P. Flockton
Mrs. Crincum . . Mrs. E. G. Phillips
Julia Vernona Jarbeau
Peggy Marie Greenwald
I02 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D887
The Academy property was sold to W. B. Dinsmore April 27, 1887, for ^300,000. It was put up at the Real Estate exchange and knocked down to Director Dinsmore, subject to a mortgage of 1^195,000, because nobody else would make a bid. At that time Mr. Dinsmore stated that he bought the property on the impulse of the moment as an investment. It comprised about ten lots in the very heart of the city. A few weeks afterwards W. P. Douglas bought the property, paying ;^32S,cxdo for it. The deed was recorded in the Registrar's Office Aug. 31. The property was sold subject to a mortgage to secure the payment of ^195,000 to the executors of John Schenck. Mr. Douglas, by a mortgage re- corded Aug. 30 borrowed ^300,000 from the Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance company, to enable him to buy the property.
This house was first opened as a combination theatre — that is, it was rented to travelling companies for two or more weeks at a time — Sept. 19 with the "Tank" play, "A Dark Secret," which had this cast :
James Norton .... Harry Ashton
Stephen Hudson Liston
Nat Chas. Cumraings
Arthur Loates .... Geo. Backus
Nelly . . Cecil Rayner May Joyce . Emilia . .
. Virginia Nelson . Clarence Heritage . Dora Goldthwaite Gabrielle du Sauld
Eugene Tompkins and Ed. G. Gilmore commenced as managers of this house Nov. 28. The spectacle of " The Arabian Nights " opened Dec. 5 for two weeks. Week of Dec. 19 the theatre was closed, but reopened Dec. 26 with the Booth-Barrett company in "Julius Caesar." Most of the orchestra seats sold for ;^2.so, a few for $2, and all the balcony back of the first two rows for ;^i. 50. The cast was :
Brutus . . .
Decius . . .
Casca . . . Metellus Cimber
Trebonius . .
Cinna . . .
Calphurnia . .
. Edwin Booth Charles Collins
. B. G. Rogers
L. J. Henderson Chas. B. Hanford
. Edwin Royle Elizabeth Robbins
Cassius . . . Julius Caesar . Octavius CcEsar Popilius Lena . Titanius . . . Portia . . .
Lawrence Barrett . John A. Lane
Lawrence Hanley
Frederic Vroom
. J. L. Finney
Minna K. Gale
March 19 Bamay, the German tragedian, appeared as King Lear with this cast :
Koenig von Frankreich Carl Mueller Herzog von Burgund Alexis Schoenlank Herzog von Cornwall Heinrich Zilzer Herzog von Albanien . . Julius Metz Graf von Gloster . . Reinhold Bojok Graf von Kent . . . Gustav Kober Koenig Lear .... Herr Barnay Edgar Arthur Meyer
Edmund . Curan Der Narr Oswald . Goneril . Regan . Cordelia .
Hugo Ranzenberg . . . M. Hoppe . . Moritz Moritz . Hermann Haack . Antonie Ziegler Auguste Burmester Hermine Reichenbach
.i^ugcu niuiui ivieyer
Barnay's Lear lacked grandeur of conception and dignity of mien. It was neither picturesque nor pathetic. It did not
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touch the heart, neither did it fill the imagination or satisfy the intellect. March 21, 22, an act each of "Richard III.," "Wil- liam Tell," and "Julius Caesar" were given; March 23 and 24, "Uriel Acosta;" matinee, March 24, "Othello." This closed Barnay's engagement at this house, also with Conreid & Herr- mann, his managers, and " Julius Cassar " was played during the engagement of two weeks. The pantomime of " Mazulm, or the Night Owl," Jan. 9, 1888:
Mazulm A. H. Denham
Spirits of Purity . . Hattie Grinnell
Clown T. S. Dare
Harlequin . . ... Albert Martinetti
Policeman Wm. Eunice
Pantaloon . . . W. H. Bartholomew Columbine Louise Allen
Ludwig Barnay, the German actor, was announced to make his debut March 12, under the management of Conreid & Herrmann. But the audience was so small that it was dismissed by the man- agement. The slim attendance was owing to the memorable bliz- zard— a snowstorm long to be remembered. Very few of the theatres were able to open their doors, as the streets were almost impassable. The following night there was another small sized house, occasioned by the storm, but March 15 Barnay appeared in "Kean," a play made familiar by him during his first American engagement at the Thalia, in 1883. The cast of "Kean" was as follows :
George, Prinz von Wales
Hugo Ranzenberg Graf von Coefeld . Hermann Haack Graefin Helena . . Antonie Ziegler Graefin Amy von Goswill
Auguste Burmester Lady Sarah Brighton, Eugenie Schmitz
Sir Arthur Neville Alexis Schoenlank Anna Danby . Hermine Reichenbach Edmund Kean . . Ludwig Barnay Lord Melvill .... Arthur Meyer Darius ...... Moritz Moritz
Salomon Gustav Kober
Pistol Lili Petri
On March 16 and 17 he appeared in "Othello," with this cast:
Der Doge von Venedig, Heinrich Zilzer Desdemona . Hermine Reichenbach Brabantio .... Reinhold Bojok
Gratiano Julius Metz
Lodovico . . . Alexis Schoenlank Othello Ludwig Barnay
Cassio Hugo Ranzenberg
Yago Gustav Kober
Roderigo Arthur Meyer
Montana .... Hernlann Haack Emilia Antonie Ziegler
This was his first performance of the character in this country. Barnay was wonderfully picturesque and romantic — a little too much in color — the negro rather than the Moor, perhaps, but a stalwart and impressive Moor.
Tony Hart had a benefit here matin6e of March 15, when the following programme was offered : Overture by an enlarged volun- teer band of fifty pieces, comprising members of the orchestras of the Fourteenth Street Theatre, the People's Theatre, and the
I04 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D888
Grand Opera House by the courtesy of their respective leaders, under the direction of Wm. Lloyd Bowron of the Fourteenth Street Theatre; Ferguson and Mack in their specialties; Frank Mayo and company in the first act of " The Royal Guard ; " cast : D'Artagnan, a Gascon adventurer, Frank Mayo; Captain de Tre- ville, Ralph Howard ; Athos, Wm. Harcourt ; Porthos, D. Hanchett; Aramis, Robert Neil; Count Rochefort, a spy of Richelieu's, E. Parish; Brissac, Captain of Richelieu's Guard, L. Johnstone; Mons. Bonacieux of the Lion d'Or, D. Rivers; Jaques, J. Lori- mer; Perrott, T. H. Conly; Lady de Winter, Alice Fischer; Constance, Frances Graham; Nannette, Gladys Graves; peas- ants, guards, etc. Charles Reed, comic recitation; Arthur L. Oswald, aria, " Lend Me Your Aid ; " Marshall P. Wilder, origi- nal sketch (accompanied by Morris Phillips); W. J. Scanlan and company in the second act of "Shane-na-Lawn;" cast: Shane-na- Lawn, with songs, W. J. Scanlan ; John Power, C. H. Thompson ; Gerald Power, George W. Deyo; Harry Redmond, Charles Dade; Mat Kerwin, W. R. Ogden; Ronald, Thaddeus Shine; Buckley, C. R. Webster; Agent Dillon, Albert Morrell; Rose Redmond, Kate Blancke; Peggy O'Moore, Kitty O'Shea; Mrs. Powers, Millie Sackett; Marie Jansen, ballad; Harry Edwards, recitation, "A Manager's Story " (E. Collier); Warning and assassination scenes of "Julius Caesar;" cast: Julius Csesar, Charles Kent; Brutus, Wm. H. Crane; Marc Antony, N. C. Goodwin, Jr.; Cassius, Stuart Robson; Decius, Henry Bergman; Flavins, Francis Wilson; Soothsayer, J. B. Mason; Casca, Frank Mayo; Trebonius, Osmund Tearle; Metellus, Steele Mackaye; Popillius, Robert E. Hilliard; Calphurnia, Selina Fetter; senators, priests, lictors, guards, citizens, etc., by prominent professional people, assisted by the supernumerary forces from "Paul Kauvar; " Dave Reed, end man and bone soloist, assisted by Eugenie Reed, and Mrs. Dave Reed in "Hydrophobia, or a Dish of Reed Birds;" Mabel Stillman, whistling; Clarence Worrall, cornet solo; John and Edna Vidocq, in "Rehearsal." Stage director, Henry Flohr. Satin programmes were sold by Mrs. G. W. Floyd and Mrs. Louise Eldridge, who realized ^200 in this way. The total re- ceipts of the benefit were about ^10,500. An auction sale of seats for the benefit took place March 8, at the Madison Square Theatre. N. C. Goodwin, Jr., was the auctioneer. He was playing an en- gagement in Philadelphia that week, but came on to attend the sale, and returned in time for the evening show.
Daniel E. Bandmann began an engagement March 26, for one week, in " Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. " The National Opera com- pany was heard April 2 in "Nero;" April 3, Goldmark's "Queen of Sheba," with Chas. O. Bassett as Assad, Mme. Pierson as Sula- mith. Miss Fabris as Astaroth, and Mrs. Poole as the Queen.
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The rest of the cast included Messrs. Vetta, Stoddard, and Merton ; April 4 "Tannhauser" was sung, for the first time in this city in English; April $, "Faust," with Barton McGuckin, the tenor, in the title r61e, Amande Fabris as Margherita, Vetta as Meph- istopheles, and Stoddard as Valentine; April 6, "The Flying Dutchman."
Campanini began a short season April 16 with Verdi's opera, "Otello," originally produced at La Scala, Milan, one year pre- viously. Here it had this cast:
Roderigo Barberis
Montano Maina
Desdemona (first appearance)
Signora Tertrazzini Emilia Signora Scalchi
Otello (first appearance in America)
Marconi Cassio (first appearance in America)
De Comis
lago Galassi
Lodovico Bologna
Marconi, the new tenor, was a failure, and did not sing after April 18. Campanini appeared as Otello April 20. The season closed disastrously matinee, April 28, with "Otello," and it is doubtful if a worse business was ever done at this house with Italian opera. Marconi, of whom so much was expected, disap- pointed every one. No opera that has ever been produced on this side of the Atlantic had received such an amount of gratuitous advertising as "Otello." Yet, even at the first performance here, the opera was a complete and melancholy failure.
The Howard Athenaeum Specialty company came for one week, commencing April 30.
"The Mystery of a Hansom Cab " was acted for the first time in New York city. May 7. It was originally produced in this country at the Amphion Theatre, Brooklyn. The cast here was :
Mark Fretelby Brian Fitzgerald Roger Moreland Kilsip . . . Gorby . . . Oliver Whyte . Felix RoUeston Mr. Calton Dr. Chinston . Inspector of Police Cabman No. 1,104 Policeman X No. 43
Frank C. Bangs
Wm. Morris
W. S. Harkins
. Henry Lee
E. D. Lyons
Wm. Lee
Herbert Ay ling
Edmund Grace
Henry Vernon
John Swinburn
Jos. Mitchell
Wm. Johnson
Ben Morgan . . ,
Servant
Newsboy . . . . Madge Fretelby . . Mother Guttersnipe , Mrs. Sampson . , Mrs. Felix RoUeston, Rosanna Moore, Sal
Mrs. Morgan . . . Eliza
. . . Littleton
. Mr. Sylvester
Chas. Delacker
Bijou Heron
. Marion Bond
. Carrie Jamison
Florence Windram
Rawlins
Helen Bancroft . Sallie Hinston . . Carrie Allen
Frank Mayo played here one week in "The Streets of New York," opening May 14. Week of May 21 the house was closed. Sunday night. May 27, a benefit for the New York Press Club building fund took place.
Louis James and Marie Wainwright, with their travelling com- pany, began a week's engagement May 28 in "Virginius":
Io6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSqo
Virginius Louis James Titus E. Y. Backus
Appius Claudius . . • Wm. Harris Marcus ^^"7 Leighton
Caius Claudius . . . Erroll Dunbar First Soldier A. Clemens
Dentatus .... H. A. Langdon Servia Kate Meek
Icilius F. C. Mosley Female Slave .... Aurelia Samer
Numitorius . . . Edward N. Ho3ft Virginia .... Marie Wainwright
Lucius Willis Granger
"Othello" and "Ingomar" were also played during the week. John L. Sullivan, the pugilist, took a "benefit" June 4. The house reopened Aug. 30, with Eugene Tompkins and E. G. Gil- more as managers, and with Denman Thompson as the star, in "The Old Homestead," which had this cast:
Joshua Whitcomb Frank Hopkins John Freeman Rickety Ann . Annie Hopkins Cy. Prime . .
Den Thompson
Chauncy Olcott
Frank Thompson
Annie Thompson
Venie Thompson
. Geo. A. Beane
Happy Jack Walter Gale
Eb. Ganzey .... J. L. Morgan Aunt Matilda .... Louisa Morse Nellie Freeman . . . Lillian Stone Maggie .... Minnie Luckstone
A benefit for the German Press Club took place Sunday night, Oct. 28. Mme. Herbert -Foerster, Max Alvary, Bertha Ricci, Helen Von Doenhoff, Emil Fischer, Isabelle Urquhart, Alice Maydue, Conrad Ansorge, Max Bendix, Gus Williams, Richard Pitrot, and a number of German singing societies gave their ser- vices. Dockstader's Minstrels were heard in white face Sunday evening, Dec. 30. Jas. Blamphin, the harpist, and Jules Levy, cornetist, also appeared. A testimonial benefit was tendered May 26, 1889, to the family of the late Hon. Michael Norton, when a host of voluntary artists appeared, including Charles O. Bassett, Maud Powell, Georgine Von Januschowsky, Conrad Ansorge, Blanche Walsh, Alice J. Shaw, and others. The affair was given under the auspices of Mayor Hugh J. Grant and other city officials. The amount raised by the testimonial was about ^20,000. "The Old Homestead" terminated its first run Saturday evening, June i, 1889, when the house closed for one week, and reopened June 10 with Bartholomew's Equine Paradox. Their stay was very brief, and the house closed until Thursday evening, Sept. 25, when Mr. Thompson commenced another season of "The Old Homestead." The season closed May 10, 1890. James C. Duff's opera company appeared here May 12 in " Pinafore " : Sir Joseph Porter, Digby Bell; Captain Corcoran, W. H. Clarke; Ralph Rack- straw, Chauncey Olcott ; Dick Deadeye, Frank Pearson ; Boatswain, W. H. MacLaughlin; Josephine, Gertrude Sears; Hebe, Katie Gil- bert; Little Buttercup, Laura Joyce Bell. "The Mikado" was sung June 2 : Digby Bell, Ko Ko ; Chauncey Olcott, Nanki Pooh; Laura Joyce Bell, Katisha; Yum Yum, Gertrude Sears; and Pooh Bah, William MacLaughlin ; Jos. C. Fay, Leona Clarke.
The next dramatic season opened Aug. 23 with the following
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English specialty company: The Montague troupe of acrobats, Stebb and Trepp, Rodo Leo Rapoli, equilibrist; Dan Emerson, vocalist; the Hulines, the Waterbury Family, the Hanlon Volters (not the original Hanlon Bros.), the Paul Martinetti pantomime company. The gymnastic act of Zampillaerostation was done by the Hanlon Volters, and the afterpiece was "A Terrible Night." All of the specialty acts had been performed, and when the Hanlon Volters had about finished their gymnastic act, while William was doing the "giant swing" on a single trapeze suspended from the dome of the theatre, one of the wire cables supporting the bar broke, and he fell head foremost to the parquet, striking one of the ropes holding the net, thus breaking his fall. He was taken to the New York Hospital, where he remained for several days. He reappeared Sept. 6, but took no part in the performance other than to bow his acknowledgments to the audience.
The B. P. O. Elks had a benefit afternoon Sept. 4, when the McCaull Opera company appeared in "The Seven Suabians." "The Nuptial Chimes" came next. Others on the bill were the Hanlon Volters, Selma Koert-Kronold, Carl Streitmann, and Gil- bert Sarony. William Hanlon reappeared Sept. 25 in his trapeze act. This company closed Oct. 2. Den Thompson returned Oct. 6 in "The Old Homestead." Edward Gilmore and Eugene Tomp- kins purchased Nilsson Hall in East Fifteenth Street, adjoining the Academy for ^78,000. "The Old Homestead" was revived Oct. 6 and closed Jan. 10, 1891. "Joshua Whitcomb " was pro- duced Jan. 12 for two weeks. "The Old Homestead" was revived Jan. 26 and continued until April 25. The house was closed week of April 27, except May 2, when the "Mask and Wig Club," of the University of Pennsylvania, appeared in the bur- lesque of "Miss Columbia" for the first time in this city.
"Home, Sweet Home," a rural play, was acted May 4, 1891, for the first time on any stage. In the company were Robert Fischer, George A. Beane, Louis R. Grissel, John R. Maner, Sidney Drew, Mason Mitchell, John Morgan, Louisa Morse, Louise Sylvester, Hattie Harvey, and Kate Chester. The theatre was closed May 9 and reopened Aug. 26 with "The Shaughraun," by amateurs. The next season began Sept. 3, 1891, with "The Soudan," which had this cast :
Captain Temple . . . Louis James Matthew Hawker . . S. E. Springer Paul de Vigne .... Frank Losee Stephen Mardyke . Stanislaus Stange Rev. Arthur Lul worth
Lawrence Eddinger Horatio Spofkins . . Dan Collyer Joe Lambkins .... Harry Hawk Father Donini . . Russell Hunting
Nellie Temple Cora Gray . . Maggie Wilkins Mrs. Lambkins Mrs. Lulworth Mrs. Buton Frank . Dick . .
. . Emma Vaders
Eleanor Moretti
. Kate Oesterle
. Mrs. W. G. Jones
Jeannie Harold
. . . . Marie Bellville
. . Master Jack Ferris
Master Wallie Eddinger
lo8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1893
This closed Nov. 21, 1891. "Cinderella" was presented Nov. 24 and closed Dec. 26. On Dec. 29 " A Country Circus " was pre- sented. In the company were Nat. D. Jones, Mrs. Eugene A. Eberle, Chas. B. Hawkins, Frank A. Tannehill, Jr., Henry Lynn, Lottie Alter, Mrs. W. A. Sands, Lon Morris, and James A. Heme (stage director). There was a ring on the stage with reflecting mirrors. The circus performers were the Meers Sisters, Katie HoUoway, Wm. Conrad and dogs, Thos. S. Dare, Leon Morris and ponies, the Glinserettis and George Kline. The "Country Circus" closed March 26, 1892.
Adele Sandrock, announced as the German Bernhardt, made her American debut March 28, 1892, in "Eva," supported by a Ger- man company from the Thalia Theatre. " Marie Stuart " was given April 8 with Marianne Bedocovies in the title r61e. Sand- rock was to have acted that r61e, but at the last moment refused, stating that she had not sufficient time to study it. "Sophie Dorothea " was seen April 12 for the first time in America. Sandrock acted April 15 in "Die Hochzeit von Valeni." The house was closed week of April 18. Mme. Siseretta Jones, an- nounced as the Black Patti (who first appeared in New York, April 26 at the Madison Square Garden), sang here April 30 and May I. The burlesque "Blue Eyed Susan," by Sims and Pettit was done May 2 with a cast made up of amateurs. The Hi Henry burlesque company came May 9 in " Our Vassar Girls. " Princess Dolgorouky, solo violinist, made her American debut May 28. William Muldoon gave a boxing exhibition June 4.
The next season began Sept. 5, 1892, with "The Black Crook," and this cast : Count Wolfenstein, Geo. K. Robinson ; Rudolphe, Nestor Lennon ; Von Puffengruntz, W. H. Bartholomew; Hertzog, S. E. Springer; Greppo, Sam Collins; Dragonfin, James Marba; Zamiel, Russell Hunting; Stalacta, Elise Gray; Amina, Gertrude Wood ; Dame Barbara, Mrs. Selden Irwin ; Carline, Sadie Mac- Donald. In the ballet were Zole Tornaghi, Sig. Nicola Guerra, Amalia Maveroffer, and Marie Rizzi, their first appearance in America. The four French quadrille dancers from Paris made their American debut in the dance known as "The Split." The French equilibrist Kins-Ners made his American debut Sept. 10. Sig. Biancifiore, male dancer, and Elena Salmorraghi, premiere danseuse, first appeared March 24.
Mrs. Louisa Eldridge had a benefit afternoon, April 6, 1893. Rose Pompon, French eccentric dancer, made her American debut April 10. " The Black Crook " closed May 20, after three hundred and six consecutive performances. The Columbia College boys gave "Ivanhoe" May 26, 1893. Dr. Carver appeared here July 4 in "The Scout," and suddenly closed July 22. The house reopened Aug. 14 with " The Black Crook " Bartoletti, premiere
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danseuse, made her American d6but. Leonella Staccione reap- peared, and Sig. Salvaggi, male dancer, made his American d6but, Aug. 21. "The Black Crook" closed Sept. 23. The Academy was dark until Oct. 23, 1893, when it was opened with "In Old Ken- tucky," which had this cast: Frank Layson, Wm. Courtleigh; Col. Sandusky Doolittle, Burt G. Clarke; Joe Lorey, George W. Deyo; Brutus, Scott Williams; Madge Brierly, Bettina Gerard; Alathea Layson, Ethel Graybrooke. This drama ran until March 12, 1894, when "The Girl I Left Behind Me" was presented. It was by David Belasco and Franklyn Fyles. The next season opened August 30 with " Shenandoah. " " The Cotton King " was acted for the first time in America Dec. 3, and the cast was :
Jack . . Shillinglaw Stockley Fonseca . Ponder .
Eben Plympton
. Dominick Murray
. Cuyler Hastings
Edward R. Mawson
. . . Edward See
Tupper Dan Collyer
Hetty May Wheeler
Mrs. Drayson . . . Mrs. Selden Irwin Kittie .... Amelia Summerville Elsie Bijou Fernandez
There was a benefit performance here and at the Grand Opera House afternoon of Jan. 17, 1895, for the relief of the families of the firemen who lost their lives on Dec. 29. "Rory of the Hills" was first played here Jan. 28, 1895, and had this cast:
Squireen Darley . . . Jos. A. Wilkes Barry L'Estrange . Emmet Corrigan Lawyer McSlime . . . Harry Hawk The Mask .... Henry E. Walton Con Cregan, a Madman J. F. Wheelock Corney IDelaney .... Ben Lodge The Hon. Percy WagstafE
Richard Ganthony Mr. Decourcy ... T. C. Hamilton
Adolphus . . Mike Dooley . Norry Cavanagh Decourcy . . Grace Darley . Esmond . . . Widow Kilduff Widow O'Mally Rory O'Mally .
Emmet Devoy Harry Scarborough . Patsy Brannigan . T. C. Hamilton . Nellie Braggins . . Kate Lester . May Thompson Mrs. Chas. Peters . James C. Roach
"Rory of the Hills" closed April 6, 1895. The house reopened April IS with Prof. Alex Herrmann, the magician, for a fortnight. " The Fatal Card " was presented April 29 and ran until June i, when the house closed, and reopened Aug. 29 with the first produc- tion in America of "The Sporting Duchess," called in England "The Derby Winner," by Augustus Harris, Cecil Raleigh, and Henry Hamilton. The drama had this cast :
Douglas E, J. RatclifFe
Harold Roy Richardson
Donnelly Alfred Fisher
Mostyn Francis Carlyle
Lord Chisholm . . W. D. Harbury
Bagot Francis Neilson
Guy Beamish .... Rhynas Jones
Rupert William Harcourt
Cyprian Streatfield . . R. A. Roberts
Joe Alymer . . . Maria . . . . Muriel . . . . Mrs. Donnelly Annette Donnelly May Aylmer Vivian Darville . Frances Collonby
. J. H. Stoddart . . Agnes Booth . . Cora Tanner Agnes Proctor . . Jessie Busley Margaret Robinson . . Alice Fischer . . Louise MuUer
no A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D896
J. H. Stoddart was the recipient of a loving cup Jan. 30, 1896, after the close of the performance of " The Sporting Duchess. " The cup was presented to him by the management of the play and the members of the company, and commemorated the sixty-third anni- versary of Mr. Stoddart's debut on the stage. The presentation speech was made by A. M. Palmer, to which Mr. Stoddart re- sponded. Mrs. Agnes Booth Schoeffel also presented him with a silver pitcher, a gift from Joseph Jefferson. In consequence of the illness of Cora Tanner Feb. 12, 1896, Agnes Booth acted Muriel, and Agnes Proctor appeared as Maria. This play con- tinued until Feb. 29.
Grand Opera was once more heard in the Academy on March 2, 1896. Mr. Damrosch's company began their season with " Fidelio," when Katharina Klafsky sang Leonora, and Gruening and Popovici were received with enthusiasm. " Lohertgrin " was sung March 5: Lohengrin, Wilhelm Gruening; Elsa, Milka Ternina; Ortrud, Katharina Klafsky; King Henry, Emil Fischer; Telramund, Demeter Popovici; Herald, Wilhelm Mertens. Frau Klafsky sang Ortrud as, perhaps, no one has ever sung it here before. What a magnificent voice hers was, to be sure! What a volume, what richness, beauty, and splendor of tone ! " The Scarlet Letter," composed by Walter Damrosch, was sung March 6 for the first time with this cast:
Hester Prynn . . . Johanna Gadski Arthur Dimmesdale . Baron Berthold Governor Bellingham Conrad Behrens
Rev. John Wilson . Gerard Stehman Roger Chillingworth . . W. Mertens Jailer Julius von Putlitz
"Siegfried" was sung matinee, March 7, introducing Max Alvary; " Tannhauser, " March 9; "Die Walkiire," March 11, with Katha- rina Klafsky as Brunhilde ; matinee, March 12, "Fidelio": Frau- lein Terulma as Leonora, Gruening as Florestan, Fischer as Rocco, Herr Popovici as Pizarro, and Behrens, the Minister; "Die Meistersinger " was sung March 13 with this cast: Hans Sachs, Emil Fischer; Veit Pogner, Conrad Behrens; Eva, Jo- hanna Gadski; Magdalene, Marie Maurer. "Tristan and Isolde" was heard matinee, March 14; "Lohengrin," March 16; "Sieg- fried," March 17; "Tannhauser," March 18; "Der Freischiitz, " March 20: Agatha, Johanna Gadski; Anna, Augusta Vollmar; Prince Ottokar, Wilhelm Mertens; Samiel, Julius von Putlitz; Hermit, Conrad Behrens. " Gotteidammerung " was heard matinee, March 21, and night, March 25; "Die Walkure," March 23; "Tristan and Isolde," March 27, and the season closed matinee, March 28, with "Die Meistersinger,"
" Cuba Free " was a play by James Arthur MacKnight, acted (March 26) for one night only. « Humanity " .was played March 30: Bevis Cranbourne, Joseph Grismer; Felix Cranbourne, John
iSgej
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S. Hale; Lady Cranbourne, Mary Davenport; Vera Cranbourne, Belle Bucklin; Fordyce Dangerfield, Hardee Kirkland; Baby Bembrose, Arthur Livingston; Matthew Penn, E. R. Mawson; Lesbia, Ramie Austin; Keziah, Julia Batchelder; Manassas, Dore Davidson; Alma Dunbar, Phoebe Davis. This was followed by "After Dark": Old Tom, Wm. A. Brady; Medhurst, Ross O'Neal; Chumley, E. R. Mawson ; Dicey Morris, Dore Davidson ; Belling- ham, Hardee Kirkland; Peter Small, Sadie Price; Eliza, Marie Rene ; Rose, Helen Robertson. " Trilby " was seen here May 9, and the house closed to reopen matinee and night of May 30, when " The Rivals " was acted by the same company that played it a few nights previously at the Herald Square Theatre.
The house was opened for the season Aug. 20, 1896, with the first performance of Clay Greene's "Under the Polar Star," which had this cast :
Rodman Charles Kent Doctor Bacon .... Neil Warner
Harry Carleton . . Francis Carlyle O'Regan Felix Haney
William Brandon . . Cuyler Hastings Helen Blaine - . Grace Henderson
Achille Rabon . . Leo Dietrichstein Mrs. Carleton . . . Mary Davenport
Washington Post . . . Theo Babcock Flora Heath . . . Bijou Fernandez
Alexy W. H. Thompson
There was a benefit afternoon of Oct. 8 for the Edwin Forrest Lodge, Actors' Order of Friendship. The performance began about noon and continued until nearly nightfall. Prominent among those who appeared were Joseph Jefferson as Mr. Go- lightly, in "Lend Me Five Shillings," Wm. H. Crane and Stuart Robson in the "quarrel scene" from "Julius Caesar," Francis Wilson in an act of "Half a King," and Georgia Cayvan, in a scene from "Mary Pennington, Spinster."
J. H. Mapleson began a season of Italian opera Oct. 26 with "Aida": Rhadames, Sig. Durot; Amonasro, Sig. de Anna; Ramfis, Sig. Pinto; the King, Sig. Dado; Amneris, Mme. Parsi; Sacerdotessa, Mile, du Bedat; Aida, Mme. Bonaplata-Bau. With the exception of one member of the cast, Sig. de Anna, there was not a singer upon the stage who was known to New York. " La Traviata " was announced for Oct. 28, but owing to the illness of Sig. Randaccio there was a change of bill, and " Aida " was again performed; also Oct. 30, the cast being the same at each perform- ance. "II Trovatore" was given matinee, Oct. 31. Mme. Bona- plata was announced for Leonora, but Mme. Dotti took her place. Mme. Scalchi was the Azucena; "The Huguenots" was sung Nov. 4; Sig. de Marchi sang Raoul in "The Huguenots," Mile. Pergozzi- Albini, Margherita de Valois.
"La Somnambula" was sung Nov. 6: Elvino, Sig. Betti; Conte Rodolfo, Sig. Dado; Alessio, Sig. Borelli; Un Notaro, Sig. Oli- ver! ; Lisa, Mme. du Bedat ; Theresa, Mme. Meysenheym ; Amina,
112 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1897
Mme. Huguet. This was the first appearance here of Mile. HugueL " Aida" was sung matinee, Nov. 7. The prices were reduced Nov. 9 from $4 to $s. " Faust " was heard Nov. 9 with Susan Strong as Margherita and Sig. Randaccio as Faust. This was Miss Strong's first appearance, and also the American debut of Randac- cio; "La Somnambula" was heard Nov. ii, with Huguet as Amina; Nov. 13, for the first time in America "Andrea Chenier " was sung, libretto by Luigi Illica and music by Umberto Giordano. The opera had this cast:
Andrea Chenier Carlo Gerard . Maddalena . .
. . . . Sig. Durot
. . . Sig. Ughetto
Mme. Bonaplata-Bau
La Mulatta Bersi . Mme. Meysenheym La Contessa di Coigny . . Mme. Parsi
" Faust " was sung matinee, Nov. 14; "Andrea Chenier," Nov. 16- 18; "Lucia di Lammermoor," matinee, Nov. 21; "Lohengrin," Nov. 20; the season closed Saturday night Nov. 21 with "II Tro- vatore." The matinde drew a large audience and in the evening the house was filled at the low prices which Mapleson tried as an experiment.
Nov. 23, 1896, was given, for the first time in this city, "Two Little Vagrants," adapted from the French of Pierre Decourcelle's " Les Deux Gosses," by Charles Klein. It had this cast:
George d'Armont Robert d'Albert St. Henri Le Renard Mulct . Fadart . Brisquet . Dr. Vernier Humbert
Edward J. Ratcliffe
Thomas Kingston
. . Giles Shine
Dore Davidson
George Fawcett
Eugene Sanger
Edward Morgan
Thaddeus Shine
William Farnum
Goguelin Thomas Story
Sexton .... Henry T. Harrison
Helen Annie Irish
Fan-fan Jessie Busley
Claude Minnie Dupree
Carmen Frances Gaunt
Zephyrine Alice Fischer
Sister Simplice . . . Mabel Eaton Marraine Goguelin . Lizzie Rochelle
On the afternoon of Dec. 17 there was an entertainment for the fund for the endowment of free hospital beds for members of the National Guard. An act of "A Milk White Flag," one of "My Friend from India," and a scene from "Two Little Vagrants," were given. Music was contributed by Bayne's Sixty-Ninth regiment band. Werner and Rieder, Williams and Walker, Donnelly and Girard, and Lew Dockstader furnished specialties. Miss Marget and Fred M. Marston sang, and Rose Coghlan, supported by W. H. Crompton and Bijou Fernandez, presented "Nance Oldfield." The house was closed Monday night, Jan. 25, 1897, and reopened Jan. 26 with the first performance in America of " Straight from the Heart," by Sutton Vane and Arthur Shirley. The play had this cast: ^ •'
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David Walton . . Captain Nugent . Ventry Fox . . Frazer Fry - . . Louis Raymond • Hawkshaw Dixon
George Paxton Charles A. Smiley . W. A. Whitecar Edward L. Walton . . Charles Kent . . . Bert Coote
Gloster Samuel Edwards
De Lorme . . . . De Witt Jennings
Harold }• • • • Blanche Walsh Lalotte Bijou Fernandez
"In Old Kentucky" revived Feb. 22. "At Piney Ridge," pre- viously seen at the American Theatre, came March 29; "The Heart of Maryland," April 5; " Brian Boru," April 12; James Cor- bett, the pugilist, April 19, in "A Naval Cadet;" "The Sporting Duchess," April 26, and the season closed May i. It reopened August 26, 1897, with the spectacular play, "Nature," by William Deverna and James Schonberg, for the first time on any stage. It had this cast :
John Hampton Schultz . . . HughBassett . King Rap . .
. Edwin W. Ho£E
Joseph Cawthorne
Lloyd M. Bingham
. Frederick Clifton
Nature Amelia Bingham
Psyche Elaine Gryce
Katrina Merri Osborne
William Deverna died in this city two weeks before the play was produced. The production was a failure, and was followed Oct. II by James Corbett in "A Naval Cadet." Denman Thompson came Oct. 18 in "The Old Homestead."
Nov. 22 "The White Heather," by Cecil Raleigh and Henry Hamilton, was given, for the first time in America. It had this cast:
Lady Jane Rose Coghlan
Marion Amelia Bingham
Mollie Fanshaw .... Olive May Hermonie de Vaux . Madeline Bouton Blanche Rossiter . . . Alice Arnold
Donald Gray Scott
Mrs. Andrews .... Annie Adams Angus Cameron . . Francis Carlyle
Edgar Trefusis . Alec Maclintock . James Hume . . Dewar Gay . . Duke of Shetland Jackson
. Robert Cotton
Miller Kent
Harry Harwood
Lewis Baker
Frank Burbeck
P. A. Nannery
Craven Douglas Lloyd
Hudson E. Y. Backus
"The White Heather " ran until April 30, 1898. "Shenandoah" returned here May 17 and continued until June 11.
The next season began August 15, 1898, with Denman Thomp- son in "The Old Homestead," which ran until Sept. 26, when "Sporting Life," by Cecil Raleigh and Seymour Hicks was seen for the first time in America, and with this cast :
Reginald Molyneux . Charles Walcot
Braybourne . . . Beresford Webb
Dudley Stanhope . . H. G. Lonsdale
Isidore Frank Burbeck
Dan Doxey . . . . R. A. Roberts
Pilgrim R. Baton Gibbs
Joe Lee William Bonelli
Malet de Carteret . . Frazer Coulter
Jordan Fred Strong
Olive Elita Proctor Otis
Earl of Woodstock . Robert Hilliard
Hilliard withdrew from the cast after Oct. 16, but reappeared Nov 21. During his absence William Courtleigh acted the Earl of
VOL. II. — 8
114 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cigoi
Woodstock. Andrew Mack appeared Jan. i6, 1899, in "The Ragged Earl," by Joseph Humphrey, for the first time in this city. The drama had this cast :
Gerald Fitzgerald . . Andrew Mack
Patrick W. J. Mason
Larry James Vincent
Maurice Thomas Jackson
Father Barry . . . John C. Fenton Henry Hardcastle . Henry Herman
Ralph Forester . . . Edwin Brandt Lord Wildbrook . . B. T. Ringgold Mrs. Fitzmaurice . . . Minnie Monk Kathleen Fitzmaurice, Josephine Lovett Una Fitzmaurice, Georgia Florence Olp Sarah McHugh . Annie Ward Tiffany
"Her Atonement," a war melodrama, was produced by Anson Pond Feb. 13, and had this cast:
Martha West . Mrs. Morton . Nora . . . Little Rose Mrs. Moriarty Colonel Swift . Charles Le Roy
. . . Annie Irish Kate Denin Wilson Nora Dunblane Ricca Scott . Ethel Bland . Louis Aldrich Richard Bennett
James Morton Louis Preterre James Doolittle . Patrick Mulligan . Johnny Springfield Mr. Phillips . . Henry Wright
. . Orrin Johnson
. Frederick Perry Thomas McGrath
. . Henry Dixey
. . Jessie Busley
. . John F. Cook
. . Harry Rose
Den Thompson came once more, March 27, with " The Old Home- stead." On May 8 "King of the Opium Ring" was seen, and the season closed June 3. The next season began Aug. 31 with " The Last of the Rohans," for the first time in this city. It had this cast:
Clifford Andrew Mack
Kerrigan .... B. T. Ringgold Neil McNeil .... Edwin Brandt Father Bernard . . George W. Deyo
McCarthy James Vincent
Kelly .... Thomas E. Jackson
Shelah Georgia Olp
Rosie Bantry . . . Jennie Satterlee
Den Thompson returned Oct. 9 in " The Old Homestead. " " Way Down East" was presented Nov. 13 and closed May 10, 1900, with the two hundred and sixth performance at this house, which, added to a hundred and fifty-five performances at the Manhattan Theatre, this city, made three hundred and sixty-one in New York. "Woman and Wine" was seen here May 12 and closed June 9.
The house reopened August 20 with "The Rebel," by James B. Fagan:
Jack Blake . . . Squire Bagenall . Bagenall . . . Captain Armstrong Father Teeling .
. Andrew Mack
George W. Deyo
John C. Ince, Jr.
. Edwin Brandt
John C. Fenton
Jimmy Keogh Michael . . Andy . . Lame Shann Bridget . .
Thomas Jackson . . Giles Shine
Ben T. Ringgold Charles Walton . Clara Knott
"The Rebel" ran until Sept. 20, and the house was closed Sept. 22, and reopened Sept. 23 with "Monte Cristo," James O'Neill playing Edmund Dantes; Nortier, Fred de Belleville. "Quo Vadis" was seen here Dec. 31, with Petronius, Wilton Lackaye; Vinicius, Aubrey Boucicault; Nero, Samuel Edwards; and Lygia, Bijou Fernandez. "Barbara Frietchie" came Jan. 28, 1901, with
1857: BUCKLEY'S HALL II5
Effie Ellsler in the title r61e. "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was pro- duced March 4: Uncle Tom, Wilton Lackaye; Phineas Fletcher, Odell Williams; Simon Legree, Theo. Roberts; Geo. Harris, Wm. Harcourt; Marks, L. R. Stockwell; Eliza, Mabel Amber; Topsy, Maud Raymond; Cassie, Emily Rigl; Aunt Ophelia, Annie Yeamans; Mrs. St. Clair, Georgie Florence Olp; Eva, Alice Evans; Aunt Chloe, Dora Lane. There was a "cake walk," introducing Luke Pulley, B. H. Butler, and many others. John E. Kellerd commenced as Uncle Tom March 21. Sunday night, April 14, a miscellaneous performance was given for the benefit of the Actors' Fund. May 6 Frank Hatch commenced as Phineas Fletcher. Season closed May 18.
THE BROADWAY ATHEN^UM
FIFTY years ago one of the most popular places of amusement in New York was the Broadway Athenaeum, situated at 654 Broadway, between Bleecker and Bond streets, originally the site of Astor mansion. It was a hall, fitted with stage and scenery, and performances of a light order were given. In August, 1856, Fanny Deane commenced a series of " Drawing Room Entertainments. " Each night's performance closed with "The Actress of All Work, or My Country Cousin. " This lady made her first appearance on the stage Dec. 12, 1853, at Wallack's Theatre (Broadway and Broome Street), in "The Game of Life." On April 26, 1857, she was married to Henry P. Halsey. Her body was found floating in New York Bay Sunday afternoon, June 5, 1859. The National American Historical Paintings were on exhibition here Dec. 15, 1856.
BUCKLEY'S HALL
DIRECTLY opposite the Metropolitan Hotel and Niblo's Gar- den, at 585 Broadway, stood the house made famous by the Buckley Serenaders. It was called Buckley's Hall, and was opened by Buckley's minstrels Aug. 25, 1856. Negro minstrelsy and opera burlesques composed the entertainment. "II Trova- tore " was one of the most popular of the many travesties. In it George Swaine Buckley acted Man-nigger-o (Manrico). Encour- aged by the success which had attended their production of these burlesques, they gave them with uncorked faces. The novelty attracted for a time, but the absence of the negro dialect and "make up" rendered them spiritless; business fell off, and the company went on a travelling tour. They returned Jan. 5, 1857. The season closed June 27.
Il6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D857
The house was then opened as a regular theatre, June 29, by Thaddeus W. Meighan, and called The New Olympic Theatre. The first company to appear here included F. S. Chanfrau, also A. F. Blake, T. Baker, T. Chandler, Mrs. H. P. Grattan, Mrs. Chas. Howard, J. Seymour, Mr. France, Harry Hall, Kate Pennoyer, Kate Connor, and Mrs. Stephens. The admission was twenty-five cents; orchestra seats, fifty cents. The opening pieces were " Grist to the Mill," "The Stage Struck Barber," and "Mother and Child are Doing Well." July 6 "Don Caesar de Bazan" was acted, with F. S. Chanfrau in the title r61e, and Mrs. Charles Howard as Maritana. July 13 Charles Gayler's extravaganza "Olympiana, or a Night with Mitchell " was seen for the first time on any stage, Mrs. Charles Howard, Kate Pennoyer, Sarah Howell, Harry Hall, Thomas B. Johnston, and James Seymour in the cast. July 27 " Rip Van Winkle " preceded " Olympiana," with Chanfrau as Rip, and Seymour as Knickerbocker. "The King of Coney Island" was played July 30, when the season closed. Buckleys' Sere- naders returned Aug. 1 1 for five nights. The next manager was Wm. B. Moore, who commenced Aug. 24 with " Lola Montez, or Catching a Governor," which had this cast :
Michael T. B. Johnston
KutsofiE Hays
Galopski Leslie
Gripenhoff Havelock
Stiffenbach Edson
Rathburn Julia TurnbuU
Mme. Kybosk . . . Miss Weaver
Mme. Volkerschaulks Mrs. J. R. Scott
Count Bellamy
Ryboski Wm. Denham
Hickwitz McDonald
Tittlebatz Miss Louise
Zepherine Miss Stanton
Lola Montez . . . Mrs. C. Howard
This was followed by a dance by Mile. Ernestine de Faibre, and " P. P. , or Man and the Tiger ; " James Canoll, Fanny France, and Mrs. Dixon were in the cast of the farce. After this came a dance by Ernestine de Faibre (this lady afterwards married Mr. Pougette, and died at Philadelphia, Feb. 24, 1875), and the bill concluded with "The Alpine Maid," in which Mr. Vincent, Mrs. Charles Howard, Young, and Julia Turnbull appeared. Tony Rieff was the musical director. Rose Thorn first appeared as Sally Scraggs, in "Sketches in India," Aug. 28. Kate Saxon in "Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady," Sept. 5. Mrs. Charles Howard was seen Sept. 9 in "The Devil in Paris," assuming six characters. George Lea had now become the lessee of the house. Julia Turnbull took a benefit Oct. 2, when Fanny Herring acted Fanny Dribbles, in "An Object of Interest," and Julia Turnbull the title r61e in " Esmeralda."
The local musical extravaganza, "King Lager, or Ye Sons of Malt," written by Chas. T. P. Ware ("Sylvester Silverquill "), was acted for the first time on any stage Oct, 5, and had this cast :
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THE NEW OLYMPIC THEATRE
117
Shampayne koktayl, Mrs Chas. Howard Brandesmasha . Mrs. T. B. Johnston Hopsydoodudo . . Mile. Ernestine
Eggnogg Sherriandyce Mornin kawl . Konyak . . Frothiana . .
Miss de Faibre
. Miss Hays
Miss Barnell
Miss Brindel
Julia TurnbuU
Mairfernando Sherri koblah. Monongahela Minjulipa Jinni koktayl . Absynthe . . King Lager
Geo. Brooks Mrs. J. R. Scott . Fanny France . Miss Wilkinson . Ida St. Clair Miss Murray T. B. Johnston
There was a line on the bill as follows: "Temptation of ye Metropolitan Magician, Mairfernando." Fernando Wood, who was at the time mayor of the city, threatened to stop the performance ; but nothing of the kind was done. Mrs. Howard sang a parody on the scene from "La Favorita," "Oh, Mio Fernando!" This was one of the features of the extravaganza, and no one enjoyed it more heartily than Mayor Fernando Wood himself, who was present at the first performance. Mrs. Charles Howard took her benefit Oct. 9 and appeared as Paul in "The Pet of the Petti- coats," and in "King Lager." Mrs. Howard closed her engage- ment Oct. 12. "The Honeymoon" was acted Oct. 12 when N. St. Clair made his first appearance in America as Rolando, and Kate Ludlow her d^but as Juliana; Oct. 13 came "The Lady of Lyons;" Oct. 14, "The Hunchback" and "King Lager." The theatre closed Oct. 15 with "The Rough Diamond," " Day After the Wedding," and "Stage Struck Barber." This ended Mr. Lea's management.
After being closed a few nights, the house was reopened by T. B. Prendergast, with a minstrel company, Oct. 19. The members were: T. B. Prendergast, Herr Stockel, W. W. Snow, R. Mont- gomery, H. Wilson, J. H. Budworth, Jas. Carroll, Wash Norton, Charley White, L. Donnelly, J. Bulkley, Tom Waddee, J. Wil- liams, M. Gallagher, and C. Rentz. This company closed Nov. 14. The house was reopened Dec. 7 for dramatic performances with "All that Glitters is not Gold," "Sketches in India," "A Kiss in the Dark," and a dance by Louise Taglioni and Ernestine. The company was : Kate Ludlow, Miss Flynn, Mrs. Geo. Jordan, Mrs. G. Lingard, Harry Jordan, L. P. Roys, H. McDouall, J. Herbert, George Brooks, Harcourt, and Louisa Eldridge; Dec. 14 Charles M. Walcot began an engagement in " Charles XII. " "The Man Without a Head," and "The Day After the Wedding.'" The Buckleys returned Dec. 21, producing their burlesque operas for a time; but they failed to attract, and old style minstrel per- formances were given. George Holland, the well-known come- dian, joined the minstrel profession at this time, appearing with Wood & Christy's minstrels at Wood's Marble Hall, Broadway and Prince Street, on the same night the Buckleys commenced their season. Holland published a "card," saying that legitimate managers were unable to give him a living salary, and in conse-
Il8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D8s9
quence, he would hereafter be seen in such characters as he had been identified with; but, instead of coloring his face with red paint, he should blacken it with burnt cork, and hoped his friends and the public would appreciate his efforts to please them. R. Bishop Buckley published a "card" the following day which said: "In consequence of the high tariff put on champagne corks, he had been compelled to desert his family and join the Buckley Serenaders, and instead of using cork he would soil his face with lamp black, it being a much cheaper article, and, like our national flag, was warranted never to run. "
Buckleys closed in January, 1858, and went to >j/|/) Broadway, where they appeared Jan. 11. Pierce & Marston's Illuminated Panorama of the Arctic Regions was put on exhibition here Jan. 6, 1858. The Burton Dramatic Association took a benefit May 26, when " Othello " and " All That Glitters is not Gold " were played. The name of this house was changed June 19 to The Academy of the Drama when Mr. Fred Widdows became the manager, and presented M. Adonis, the magician. June 28 Kate Pennoyer took a benefit, when " Who Speaks First > " " Sketches in India," and "Richard III., " were played; John R. Scott was Richard. The French company occasionally acted here, commenc- ing May II. They opened a summer season July 27 and called the place The Metropolitan Music Hall. The Ronzani Ballet troupe joined the French company. Edgar Trelawney, son of the English author, and pupil of Charles Kean, appeared Aug. 31 in "The Raven," in costume, and with scenery. The French com- pany appeared Sept. 23. Agnes Sutherland and Cecile Rush were seen in a miscellaneous entertainment, the latter giving dramatic readings. Oct. 18, 1858, a dramatic company alternated with the French company, under the management of F. C. Wemyss. Mrs. John Sefton, Mr. and Mrs. Mark Smith, Mrs. Duffield (Kate Wemyss), Mrs. Archibald, Mrs. John R. Scott, Tom Wemyss, Cranshaw, Cunningham, Bruciani, Sol Smith, E. F. Taylor, and Briggs were of the company. "Simpson & Co.," "Ladies, Be- ware!" and "Box and Cox" were the opening plays. Nov. 12 Boothroyd Fairclough was seen in " Hamlet. " The afterpiece was " The Two Buzzards. "
On Dec. i Lizzie May, an amateur actress, made her debut as Lady Gay in "London Assiirance." T. S. Nims was Meddle, and Josephine Sinclair, Grace. Boothroyd Fairclough took a benefit Dec. 2, when he played Shylock in "The Merchant of Venice." The farce " The Two Queens " followed, with Miss E. Robinson as Christine of Sweden, and Millie Corey as Margaret of Denmark.
In January, 1859, the interior of the house was entirely re- modelled, and reopened by Fred Widdows and Sage, with French dramatic performances. In March it was leased by Josh Hart, and
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THE PALACE OF MIRRORS
119
called the Olympic, but his management lasted only one week, as his financial backer lost heart, and Hart lost his backer. Mr. Hart introduced Budworth's minstrels, and played "The Widow's Victim," acting Jerry Clip himself, and giving imitations of noted actors. Hart also gave the delirium scene from "The Drunk- ard," appearing as Edward Middleton.
On March 12 the French company reappeared in "Les Premiers Ans de Richelieu." July 11, 1859, Buckleys' Serenaders ap- peared. Oct. 12 Mr. and Mrs. Henri Drayton came with their parlor operas, " Never Judge by Appearances " and " Diamond Cut Diamond." H. L. Bateman presented Sam Cowell in comic draw- ing-room concerts, Nov. 28. The French company withdrew Dec. 17 and Sam Cowell continued. June 4, i860, Edmond Pillett took a benefit in "Richelieu." Pillett was the Cardinal; Wm. Hamblin, Baradas; and Mrs. Frank Drew, Julie de Mortimer. Hooley & Campbell's minstrels began here June 25. S. C. Campbell, Eugene, J. C. Reeves, A. J. Talbot, T. J. Peel, L. Condit, J. J. Hilliard, J. Unsworth, G. W. H. Griffin, John B. Donniker, Melville, A. J. Hobbs, G. V. Larkin, R. M. Hooley, Asche, and Louis Zwisler formed the company. Ben Cotton, Add Weaver, and Master Barney soon after joined them. Henry Wood's minstrels, from their hall, 561-563 Broadway (Wood hav- ing sold the building to the bank) appeared here Sept. 8 for a few nights only, as they went to 444 Broadway soon afterwards.
Hooley & Campbell's minstrels were heard here Aug. 13, i860 R. M. Hooley, S. C. Campbell, G. W. H. Griffin, Billy Birch. Unsworth, and Eugene, were in the company. On Oct. 16 this hall was opened as The German Theatre by Otto Hoym and E. Har- mann, from the Stadt Theatre. After being closed for several months the house was reopened Jan. 16, 1861, with "Our Union Saved, or Marion's Dream," with this cast:
President D. J. Maguire
Herbert A. L. Cooke
Jacob Jones .... A. Glassford Pat'k Morris . . . Robert McWade Lady Egerton . . . Mrs. J. R. Scott
Sir Edward E. S. Wise
Wm. Canning ... E. L. Mortimer
Marion Agnes Cameron
Miss L . . Mrs. A. Glassford
Kitty Miss A. Hayes
The old English play, "The Romp," was also acted, for the first time in this city in thirty years. Charles Dillon appeared here as Belphegor Feb. 11 for one night. Gerald O'Neil, an Irish
wizard, was seen for a few nights. A French company then played until April 15, when the establishment became known as The Canterbury Hall.
Robert Fox and Curran had been managing 663 Broadway but being burnt out, they took this place and expended considerable money in improvements. It was called The Palace of Mirrors
I20 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Ci86s
In the dramatic company were Lionel Goldsmid, Agnes Suther- land, J. H. Ogden, and Marietta Ravel. James Dunn, the well known actor, was seen here June 24. Hooley & Campbell's min- strels appeared all through the summer of 1862 and up to the end of November. In the company were Geo. Christy, Billy Arling- ton, Wm. Reeves, Cooper, Corwin, Moreland, Dick Sands, Eugene Florence, Jules Stratton, W. H. Lewis, Walter Birch, and Billy Allen; Professor Napoleon, prestidigitateur, was seen Jan. 14, 1863. He gave a miscellaneous entertainment, assisted by Hi Rumsey, banjoist; Mile. Camille, danseuse; Mile. Napoleon, vocalist; Edouville, pantomimist; J. C. Wallace, Irish comedian; Leon and John Allen, Ethiopian comedians.
The name of this house was again changed and it was known for a few months as The Broadway Theatre. It was reopened Sept. 7, 1863, under the management of Mrs. Emma Robertson (Mrs. John Brougham), formerly of Laura Keene's company. This lady, to quote her own words, "not being able to secure even a bench to work on elsewhere," concluded to take a theatre of her own, and opened this house with the following company: Stuart Robson, Owen Marlowe, Frank Gossin, F. Florence, C. H. Wilson, Mrs. Robinson, Kate Butler, Mary Pritchard, Clara Hil- ton, and Sadie Cole. The opening bill was Rodolphino Lacy's "Doing for the Best," and T. J. Williams' farce, "Ici on Parle Frangais." A second performance was given the following night, with such poor success that the house was closed. On the morn- ing of the third day a bill was posted in front of the theatre saying that owing to the severe indisposition of Mrs. Emma Robertson the house would be "closed for a short time." The place was leased by Richard M. Hooley, and opened March 9, 1864, by George Christy's minstrels, consisting of George Christy, E. Bowers, S. S. Purdy, R. Lindley, M. J. A. Keane, T. Simpson, J. Turner, J. C. Kempe, T. B. Stevens, D. L. Hargrave, E. Flor- ence, B. Thompson, F. Boniface, T. Trogg, W. Randolph, C. Hammond, P. Gillen, and T. B. Prendergast. The business be- came so very bad that they closed Jan. 4, 1865.
This unlucky house next got the name of St. Nicholas Hall, which was again changed, April 18, to Heller's Salon DlA- BOLIQUE, when Robert Heller took possession of it. The Wizard's season lasted until May 6, 1865. On May 8, Messrs. Billy Birch, Chas. Backus, Wm. H. Bernard, and David Wambold, with their company of San Francisco minstrels became lessees, and luck visited the house, and it was henceforth known by the title of its occupants, San Francisco Minstrels. The company consisted of: Billy Birch, Chas. Backus, W. H. Bernard, David Wambold, Cooper and Fields, W. S. Mullaly, Richard Sands, E. Haslam, Hays, Shattuck, W. H. Rice, J. B. Donniker, Ainsley,
1873: THE METROPOLITAN THEATRE 121
Scott, and Templeton. The first season closed July 7, 1866. Their second commenced Aug. 12, 1867, and closed June 27, 1868. Their company was much the same as during the previous season, including D. S. Wambold, Charles Backus, William Birch, W. H. Bernard, W. H. Rice, Fowler, Templeton, W. P. Grier, Williams, and, at intervals afterward. Master George, Bobby Newcomb, Lew Brimmer, J. Ackerman, J. H. Hilton, Ainsley Scott, and Joe Brown. Their next season commenced Aug. 31, 1868, with the following company: Birch, Backus, Bernard, Wambold, W. H. Rice, Bobby Newcomb, E. Templeton, Ainsley Scott, J. B. Donniker, Cooper, and Fields. On Oct. 5 Mr. Harry Raynor joined; Dec. 7, Billy Emmett; Jan. 11, Master Jerry, jig dancer; and during the season Messrs. Fowler, Corrister, Claren- don, Williams, and Jukes also assisted. The season closed Satur- day, June 12, 1869. Their next season began Aug. 30, 1869, with the following company : Billy Birch, Charley Backus, W. H. Ber- nard, D. S. Wambold, John Mulligan, John Queen, Billy Emmett, Bobby Newcomb, Frank Kent, W. Richards, W. Blakeny, E. J. Hartigan, J. Juch, G. Clarendon, W. D. Corrister, Ainsley Scott, Ira Paine, William West, C. F, Shattuck, and J. Oberist. Leg- gett and Allen, two clog dancers on pedestals, from Europe, opened Sept. 19; Henry Norman, tenor, made his first appearance in America Feb. 21, 1870. Mr. Lavallee made his debut, and on the same night Rollin Howard and Master Fink, April 1 1. They closed May 14, 1870. J, B. Donniker died in Penn Yan, N. Y., July 17, 1902, aged sixty-six years.
George Swaine Buckley began here with his minstrels on July II, 1870, for a short season. The Satsuma Japanese company made their New York debut at this house in April, 1872.
Charles T. White was the next manager. He began a season Aug. 12 and christened the house White's Athen^um.
A minstrel and variety performance was given. In the company were Mons. Langlois, juggler; John Stewart, Andy McKee, Charles Henry, Wash Norton, Nelse Seymour, Sevey, Rodgers, Geo. H. Coes (stage manager), Sergeant Burke, Carl Rudolph, Chester Nichols, W. Schwicardi, E. Harding, Prof. E. Cornu (musical director), C. W. Schwab, J. K. Campbell, Joe Lang, Prescott, Charles Stevens, Frank Beeler, and T. Deverell. Venturoli, pre- miere danseuse, and Jennie Kimball, serio-comic singer, appeared Aug. 9. On March 10, 1873, the Worrell Sisters — Sophie, Irene, and Jennie — made their appearance in the burlesque, "Ernani." Charley White continued until June, when he closed. On Aug. 18 this house was opened by Robert W. Butler, and called The Metropolitan Theatre. He presented a company which in- cluded Nelse Seymour, Geo. F. Ketchum, Luke Schoolcraft, Geo. H. Coes, Add Ryman, J. F. Howard, Joe Lang, the Reynolds, the
122 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Z18S3
Le Clairs, Harry Ward, Belle Howitt, Nully Pieris, and Marian Blande. No further change occurred until May 30, 1874. A summer season, with " Can-can " dancers, followed, and closed Octo- ber, 1874. Luke Schoolcraft died in Cincinnati, March 12, 1893.
On Nov. 9 Harry Clifton and James Campbell became man- agers. The nightly performance of what was termed the " Pari- sian Can-can " had for months been a disgrace to the city. During the first weeks of this performance the place was raided by Cap- tain Williams, then commanding the Eighth Precinct, and James Campbell was arrested. The result of this raid was that Samuel Shapter, lawyer, who held the lease of the theatre property, assumed the management. A real French dancer, who had the stage name of Mme. de Rochefoucauld, was engaged, and the Can-can developed in all its details. Numerous complaints were made to the police regarding the character of the place ; another raid was made Dec. 23, 1874. John Le Favre Manning took the management of this house Jan. 25, 1875. M. C. Campbell, the "old time" minstrel performer, assumed charge Feb. 15. During the week commencing March i James E. Smith gave vaudeville entertainments, and Chas. Shay opened the place as The Grand Central Theatre, with variety, closing early in April. It was reopened by Wally Ward on May 3 with a sketch entitled "The Female Bathers." The house was closed, and reopened as The Metropolitan Theatre.
The Society for the Relief of Juvenile Delinquents interfering on the ground of unpaid taxes, the house was closed, and on Aug. 2 was opened by Billy Pastor and M. B. Leavitt. Among the many attractions that appeared Aug. 16 were Kate Raymond and O. B. Collins, in "Dick the Newsboy."
N. D. Roberts' Pantomime company commenced Aug. 23, in "Jack and Jill." Fanny Herring, supported by Ed. Lay, appeared Aug. 30 in "The French Spy." Tony Pastor became manager Oct. 4, and presented a variety entertainment. He continued here until April 11, 1881, when he retired from active manage- ment of this hall. After a few weeks of very questionable enter- tainments the house was closed, and altered, June 20, 1883, into stores. The vicinity in which this house of many names was situ- ated has a peculiar and historical interest. Bill Poole, politician and pugilist, was murdered by Lew Baker in a saloon on the block. Harry Hill's was in Houston Street near by, and Harry Clifton's and the "House of Lords," famous for their roast beef and English glee singing, were opposite Hill's dance house. Fire- men's Hall was just back of the theatre, in Mercer Street.
Tony Pastor's reign at No. 585 will live in the dramatic annals of the town on account of the number of actors and actresses who started there and are now in the front rank of their profession.
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The song and dance team of Mackin and Wilson appeared with great frequency then. Mackin is dead, but Francis Wilson is now the most famous of all the comic opera comedians.
Lillian Russell began her career as a singer by warbling " Kiss Me, Mother, Ere I Die," and kindred melodies on this stage, and Nat Goodwin made his metropolitan ddbut a year or so earlier, with imitations of Booth, Raymond, and other well-known actors. Evans and Hoey and the French twins played frequent engage- ments, and so did May and Flo Irwin.
LAURA KEENE'S VARIETIES
THE theatre which Laura Keene managed so long and made so famous was situated on the east side of Broadway (624), above Houston Street. It had a handsome exterior and a seating capacity of eighteen hundred. When completed, it cost ;^ 74, 000. It was erected on ground leased by Mr. Trimble for a period of twenty-one years, and the theatre proper was leased by Laura Keene, at an annual rental of ;^ 12, 000, for seven years. H. Hall was stage manager , and Thomas Baker musical director. The open- ing occurred Tuesday, Nov. 18, 1856, with the following company: George C. Jordan, C. Wheatleigh (from the Princess Theatre, London), G. K. Dickinson, F. C. Wemyss, J. A. Smith (from the Boston Theatre), J. H. Stoddart, Napoleon W. Gould, H. Hayes, W. Reeve, Mr. Cecine, C. Young, H. Hall, Mr. Burnett, T. B. Johnston, M. V. Lingham, Mr. Alleyne, B. Ringgold, Mr. Mac- Rae, Mr. Harcourt, Mr. Evarts, Mr. Colfield, Mr. Andros, J. T. Austin, Mr. Chester, Mrs. W. H. Smith (her first engagement in this city), Julia Gould (her first appearance since her return from California), Mrs. J. H. Stoddart, Ada Clifton, Jessie McLean, Josephine Manners, Mrs. H. R Grattan, Mrs. Stephens, Mrs. Atwood, Mrs. T. B. Johnston, Cornelia Jefferson, Emma Hall, Miss Alleyne, Stella Mairs, Louisa Paine, Rose Archer, and Laura Keene. The performance commenced with "The Star Spangled Banner," sung by the whole company, followed by "As You Like It," which had this cast:
Duke in Exile . . . . F. C. Wemyss Duke Frederick . . . S. K. Chester
Le Beau J. A. Smith
Oliver M. V. Lingham
Jaques Mr. MacRae
Orlando Geo. Jordan
Adam Mr. Burnett
Lord H. Hayes
Touchstone ... C. Wheatleigh Corin J. H. Stoddart
Amiens Julia Gould
Jaques G. K. Dickinson
Charles the Wrestler . Mr. Harcourt
Silvius B. Ringgold
William W. Reeve
Rosalind Laura Keene
Celia Mrs. Stoddart
Phoebe .... Josephine Manners Audrey .... Mrs. H. P. Grattan
124 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D857
The performance concluded with "Ladies, Beware I" Colonel Vavasour, J. G. Burnett; Sir Charles, M. V. Lingham; Matilda, Josephine Manners; Lady Beauchamp, Mrs. H. P. Grattan; Grace Peabody, Mrs. W. H. Smith. Admission was : Dress Circle and Parquet, 50 cents; Balcony Seats, 75 cents; Family Circle, 25 cents; Orchestra Stalls, $1 each; Private Boxes, $6.
The house was crowded, and the receipts amounted to 1^940.
" Young New York " was acted, Nov. 24, for the first time, and kept the stage until Dec. 8. " Second Love " was played for the first time here Dec. 8. "Camille," Dec. 18, with Geo. Jordan as Armand, J. G. Burnett as Duval, and Laura Keene as Camille. Dec. 25. "The Love Chase" and the extravaganza, "First Night, or the Life of an Actress;" Dec. 26, "The Marble Heart;" Jan. S, 1857, for the first time "Young Bacchus, or Spirits and Water." This was a musical extravaganza, and had this cast :
Bacchus Laura Keene
Jupiter J. G. Burnett
Momus Chas. Wheatleigh
Hymen .... Cornelia Jefferson
Mars Mr. Hayes
Silenus H. McDouall
Pan B. Yates
Mercury . . . Josephine Manners
Apollo Miss Stella
Cadmus J. H. Stoddart
Ampuleas Mr. AUeyne
Vulcan Mr. Donelson
Juno Mrs. W. H. Smith
Ariadne Julia Gould
Venus Miss AUeyne
Dirce T. B. Johnston
Flora .... Mrs. T. B. Johnston
Hebe Miss Howell
Calliope Miss Minnie
Diana Miss Gray
Jola Mrs. J. H. Stoddart
Ceres Miss Mairs
Olio Mrs. Harry Wall
Cupid Clara Taylor
" Rachel the Reaper " was played for the first time Jan. 12. " She Stoops to Conquer " was given with " Young Bacchus " until Jan. 29. " Mary's Birthday " was first seen Feb. 2, and with this cast :
George Lordly . . . C. Wheatleigh Vernon Lordly . . . . J. A. Smith Beale Mr. Reeve
Mr. Hawthorne . . . J. H. Stoddart
Alice Ada Clifton
Mary Laura Keene
George Jordan took his first benefit Feb. 7 as Evelyn in "Money." For T. B. Johnston's benefit, Feb. 14, "David Cop- perfield" was presented with Johnston as Uriah Heep; Viola Plunkett, Wilkins Micawber, Jr. ; J. G. Burnett, Micawber; Mrs. H. P. Grattan, Betsy Trotwood; and Laura Keene, Martha. Camomille" was the afterpiece, with T. B. Johnston as Camo- mille. " Much Ado About Nothing " was played Feb. 19. E. G. P. Wilkins, the author of "Young New York" and "My Wife's Mirror," had a benefit Feb. 21, when those two plays were acted; Feb. 23, "Faust and Marguerite," for the first time here. The translation was by Jonathan Birch. "Love in '76" was also given for the first time Feb. 28. "Rose Elsworth " was acted by Laura Keene until March 3, when Kate Reignolds made her
I857D
LAURA KEENE'S VARIETIES
125
first appearance in the character. " The Black Book " was first pro- duced in this country March 12; Fred M. Kent made his d^but here as Peter Zitterschenkel. The hit of the season was Charles Selby's fairy drama, "The Elves, or the Statue Bride," presented March 16, and thus cast:
Prince Pomp . . . . J. H. Stoddart Prince Lubin . . . Kate Reignolds Count Coldstreamer . . C. Wheatleigh
Toadyler J. A. Smith
Soft Sawder AUeyne
Chringis Hayes
Hyacinthe McDouall
Colin T. B. Johnston
Corin Jackson
Arcader Ben Yates
Colantha Harcourt
Melantha Miss Alford
Sylva Laura Keene
Princess Miss Manners
Phillis C. Jefferson
Eoline .... Mrs. T. B. Johnston Mme. Chloe . . Mrs. H. P. Grattan
Daphne Mrs. Stoddart
Phoebe Miss Alleyne
Ifis Julia Gould
" The Wicked Wife, or A Reign of Terror," was seen for the first time in America March 23. "Living Too Fast," first time here April 6. Charles Gayler's " Love of a Prince," for the first time on any stage, April 13. It had this cast:
Count Saxendorf . . . F. C. Wemyss Queen Sophia . . Mrs. H. P. Grattan
Stolbach McDouall
Jean F. M. Kent
Elizabeth Julia Manners
Louise Ada Clifton
Cristin C. Jefferson
Prince Charles . . . Laura Keene Baron Hoppen . . T. B. Johnston Count Gustave .... Lingham
Gen. Sturmer Stoddart
Gen. Baumer jBenson
Col. Brunner Harcourt
King Frederick . . . J. G. Burnett
April 27, for the first time in America, Alex. Dumas fils' comedy, "The Money Question," was seen, and with this cast:
R6ne De Charzay . C. Wheatleigh Jean Girdud .... Geo. Jordan
De Rencourt McDouall
Mme. Durieu .... Mrs. Grattan Mathilde Miss Manners
Durieu Burnett
De CayoUe Stoddart
Eliza Kate Reignolds
La Comtesse .... Ada Clifton
For the benefit of Laura Keene, May 2, " Like and Unlike " was given for the first time at this theatre. May 11, first time, a semi- burlesque, "Variety, or the Picture Gallery" was done, and the new comedy, " Nature and Art. " The season closed June i with a benefit to T. B. Johnston. A summer term began June 3 with "She Stoops to Conquer" and "Variety, or the Picture Gallery." "Life's Troubled Tides" was seen for the first time June 8. "Plot and Passion" had its first hearing here June 17. The cast was:
Fouchd Burnett
Mens. Desmarets . . C. Wheatleigh The Marquis .... J. A. Smith
Berthier Mr. Hayes
Cecile Miss Alleyne
Henri Lingham
Jabot McDouall
Grisboulle W. M. Reeve
Mme. De Fontaques . . Laura Keene
126 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D857
"Love's Telegraph," a new play, was seen June 24:
Princess Laura Keene
Alice .... Mrs. T. B. Johnston Marguerite . • Josephine Manners
The Prince Lingham
Arthur C. Wheatleigh
Baron Burnett
Gentleman Usher .... Benson
"Where's the Police? " was played for the first time in America July 4, on the closing night of the summer season.
The Marsh Troupe Juvenile Comedians, under the management of R. G. Marsh, commenced Aug. 3. On their first appearance they were arrayed in their travelling costumes, in a tableau illus- trative of "Home Again." This was followed by the Marseillaise, sung by Master Alfred Stewart, his first appearance before the New York public; this was succeeded by a tableau and music entitled "Hail Columbia." Little Jennie followed with a dance, and " Toodles " closed the performance. " The Naiad Queen " was presented by the Marsh company Aug. 13 with this cast:
Sir Rupert Carrie
Schnapps G. W. Marsh
Rinaldo Georgiana
Carnelle Francis
Rodolphe Master Ames
Ronaldo Amelia
Manfredi Adelaide
The Naiad Queen .... Louise
Idex Mary Marsh
Fulvia Julia Melville
Sparkle Jennie
Dewdrop Selma
Spray Anna
Coral Shew Matilde
Sprinkle Proler
Limpid Rabauz
Amphibeo R. G. Marsh
Finbach Master Charley
Goggle Eye . . . Master Henry Phantom Face . . . . M. Frederick
The season of 1857-58 opened Aug. 31. "The Heir at Law" and "A Ghost in Spite of Himself " formed the programme. The comedy had this cast :
Lord Duberly . Dick Dowlas . Zekiel Homespun Dr. Pangloss . Mr. Stedfast . Henry Moreland
. J. G. Burnett
A. H. Davenport
C. Wheatleigh
. Jos. Jefferson
J. H. Stoddart
Carlton Howard
Kenwick C. Peters
John Harcourt
Waiter Brown
Lady Duberly .... Mary Wells Caroline . . . Charlotte Thompson Cicely Laura Keene
"A Ghost in Spite of Himself ":
Nicodemus Stoddart | Squire Aldwinkle Burnett
Capt. Vauntington . . . Duncan Diggory Jos. Jefferson
Paul Chas. Peters Georgiana .... Mrs. C. Peters
Lavinia . . . Charlotte Thompson
Joseph Jefferson's comic talent and powers of characterization were recognized from the first night of his engagement, and he left here two seasons later an established favorite. Sept. I "Ange- line " and " A Conjugal Lesson " were acted. In the latter Jeffer- son played Mr. Lullaby, Laura Keene being his long-suffering
1857:
LAURA KEENE'S VARIETIES
127
wife. During this season some of Mr. Jefferson's other characters were Joshua Butterby in "The Victims," Major Lumley in "An Affair of Honor," Scout in "The Village Lawyer," Maximilian Muddle in "Nothing to Nurse," Camera Facsimile Catchmug in " The Siam Light Guard, " in which he danced in the lancers and imitated a tight-rope walker ; Pierre Rouge in " The Husband of an Hour," Barnaby Bibbs in "A Quiet Family," Diggory in "The Spectre Bridegroom," Golightly in "Lend Me Five Shillings," Septimus Smith in "My Son Diana," Barabas in "The Sea of Ice," Botcherby in "An Unequal Match," Dard in "White Lies," Clod Meddlenot in Durivage's burlesque, "The Lady of the Lions," Joliquet in "The Courier of Lyons," Graves in "Money," Colin in "The Elves" and Seth Hope in "Blanche of Brandywine."
Sept. 5 "Rachel the Reapsr," "A Conjugal Lesson," and the first act of " Robert Macaire " formed the bill. Charles Wheat- leigh was the Robert Macaire, and Jos. Jefferson, Jacques Strop. Sept. 7, for the first time in this country, Tom Taylor's comedy, "The Victims," was thus cast:
Mr. Merryweather . Mr. Rowley . . Herbert Fitzherbert Joshua Butterby . Mr. Curdle . . . Mr. Middlemist Mr. Homblower . Carfluffle ....
C. Wheatleigh . J. G. Burnett Geo. Stoddart . . Jefferson J. H. Stoddart Carlton Howard . Hardenbergh . . Harcourt
Skinner C. Peters
Mrs. Merryweather . . Laura Keene
Miss Crane Mary Wells
Mrs. Fitzherbert Charlotte Thompson
Satchell Annie Walters
Mrs. Sharp .... Mrs. Thompson Mary Bustle Miss Bell
Sept. 16 "Judith of Geneva " was presented :
Mons. St. Val . Frank Hardenbergh Henry St. Val . . . Carlton Howard Le Launy .... J. H. Stoddart La Vogue . . . . C. Wheatleigh
Nicholas Jos. JefEerson
Robert Harcourt
Footman Evans
Cook Numerett
Countess Laura Keene
Amy .... Charlotte Thompson
Rose Mary Wells
Gardener Burke
Sept. 21 "Eustache Baudin" was given here, with this cast:
Eustache Baudin . . C. Wheatleigh Alphonse .... F. Hardenbergh Mons. Poncelot ... C. Howard
Marcel Coulet JefEerson
Paul Jardin Burke
Gregory Frank Evans
Countess ...... Mary Wells
Louise (aged 4) . Little May Bullock Louise (aged 17) . Cornelia JefEerson
Delbois J. G. Burnett
Duke DeBrisac . . . J. H. Stoddart Henri De Brisac .... Duncan
Mons. Manclerc Brown
Sergeant C. Peters
Pierre Burke
Louise .... Charlotte Thompson Manon Annie Taylor
" She Stoops to Conquer " was played Sept. 24, with George Jordan as Young Marlowe; Sept. 28, "Living Too Fast," and, for the first time, E. G. P. Wilkins' "The Siam Light Guard," the latter having this cast :
128 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D857
|
Patchouli . . Cartevocha . Schako |
. Charlotte Thompson . . . . Mary Wells Annie Taylor |
|
Dodo . . . Dahlia . . . |
. . Mrs. Chas. Peters . . . Mrs. Thompson |
Sonofagongo ... J. G. Burnett Camera Facsimile Catchmug
J. Jefferson
Knappkin Chas. Peters
Mrs. Catchmug .... Laura Keene Babee C. Jefferson
Incidental to the piece was the quadrille "Les Landers," pre- sented for the first time on the American stage. C. M. Walcot's farce, "Nothing to Nurse," was the afterpiece. Falconer's drama, " Husband for an Hour " was acted Oct. 5.
"Splendid Misery," by C. T. P. Ware, was produced for the first time Oct. 19, and with this cast :
Chas. Glitter Hal Highflyer . Hon. Geo. Prindle Koskiusko . . Mrs. Chas. Glitter Mrs. Crinoline Hoopley
. J. Jefferson C. Wheatleigh J. H. Stoddart J. G. Burnett . Laura Keene Mary Wells
Silky George Jordan
Frank C. Peters
Bob Carlton Howard
Jenkins T. Duncan
Cabman Burke
Julia .... Miss C. Thompson
Angeline Annie Taylor
" Birds of Prey " was done for the first time Oct. 26. It was written by Mr. Wray for the Haymarket Theatre, London. Here it had this cast :
Charles de Rennepout . Geo. Jordan Viscount George Darmenonville
C. Wheatleigh Mons. Lalonette .... J. Burnett Henry De Clamarius Geo. W. Stoddart Mile. Th^rfese Bernard . Laura Keene
Duchess de Guerand . . Mary Wells Helen de Guerand . . Annie Taylor Mile. Georgina . Charlotte Thompson Mons. Maugiron . . . T. Duncan
Eustace . Brown
Gustave Burke
Nov. 5 " The Sea of Ice " was produced and thus cast :
Henri De Lascours Chas. Wheatleigh Louise De Lascours . . Laura Keene
Carlos Geo. Jordan
Medoc C. Peters
Pasquin Burke
Marie Mary Bullock
Horace G. W. Stoddart
Don Josd .... Carlton Howard Mile. Diana De Theringe
Charlotte Thompson
Barabas Jos. Jefferson
Jano F. Evans
Georges T. Duncan
Countess Mary Wells
Ice scenes were witnessed on the stage as early as 1818. There was produced at Birmingham, Eng., that year, "The North Pole, or the Arctic Expedition." The final scene was described on the bills as follows :
"A ship of immense size, fully rigged, with a crew of forty per- sons, commanded by a naval officer, will effect her passage through floating islands of ice, which, on separating, will show an expanse of ocean covering the whole stage. She will sail down to the foot- lights with her bowsprit over the pit, producing as novel and pow- erful an effect as can be exhibited on the stage."
Benjamin Webster produced a version of " The Sea of Ice " at
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LAURA KEENE'S VARIETIES
129
the Adelphi Theatre, London, Eng., in October, 1853, entitled "Thirst of Gold." The success of this piece evoked another adaptation early in 1854, at the Marylebone Theatre, London, in which a Danish vessel was brought on the scene, simultane- ously with the breaking up of the ice, to rescue the immersed. Although scenes of this nature are of comparatively recent date, ordinary nautical effects must be of very considerable antiquity. So far back as the year 171 3 a piece was produced at Paris, called "Les Amours Deguises," in which a fully rigged ship sailed on the stage with her decks covered with sailors and passengers.
"The Sea of Ice" ran until Dec. 21, when "The Corsican Brothers " was produced with this cast :
The Twin Brothers . George Jordan Chateau Renaud . . C. Wheatleigh Alfred Meynard . . Geo. Stoddart Le Baron De Montgiron . Duncan Le Baron Giordano Martelli . Howard Mme. Savila Dei Franchi Mary Wells Servants . . . Sadler and Churchill Emilia de Lesparre
Charlotte Thompson Orlando Wise
Colonna Burke
M. Beauchamp Munerett
M. Verner Dowton
Griffo E. K. Burke
Antonio Brown
Boissec C. Peters
Marie Mrs. Thompson
Coralie Miss Lang
Celestine Miss Walters
Estelle . . . Mrs. G. W. Stoddart
" Take Care of Dowb " was acted the same night, and Josephine Manners made her first appearance this season, as Mrs. Wallop. Henrietta Lang was the Fanny. Dec. 24, in addition to "The Corsican Brothers," the comic pantomime, " Harlequin Blue Beard, or the Good Fairy Triumphant over the Demon of Discord " was produced. Sallie Bishop was the Columbine ; Mons. Leon, Sprite; Ben Yates, Harlequin; W. Kennedy (his first appearance in this city in fifteen years). Pantaloon; C. Henry, Clown. Tom Taylor's comedy, " An Unequal Match " was played for the first time Jan. 4, 1858, and had this cast:
Harry ArnclifEe . . . Geo. Jordan Sir Sowerby Honeywood
G. W. Stoddart
Blenkensop C. Peters
Heyduk Burke
Miss Leech Miss Everett
Lady Honeywood . . Mrs. Thompson
"The Muleteer of Toledo," was acted Jan. 15, and Jan. 25 Wilkie Collins' drama, "The Lighthouse." For the benefit of Laura Keene, Jan. 30, "White Lies," dramatized from Chas. Reade's novel of that name, was produced. Feb. 4, the burlesque of " The Lady of the Lions, " Jefferson as Clod Meddlenot. " The Courier of Lyons " was done Feb. 6 for the benefit of George Jordan. Joseph Jefferson's first benefit in New York took place Feb. 13, when he played Toby Twinkle in "All That Glitters is not
VOL. II. — 9
Bessie Hebblethwaite Miss Manners Hester Grazebrook . . Laura Keene
Dr. Botcherby Jefferson
Grazebrook Burnett
Chillingham .... Frank Hodges Mrs. Montressor . . . Mary Wells
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A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1858
Gold;" Mr. Brown in the farce "My Neighbor's Wife," and Diggory in "The Spectre Bridegroom." John Courtney's comedy "Double Faced People" was seen Feb. 26; "Mind Your Own Business " was done the same night. For Stage Manager J. G. Burnett's benefit, Feb. 27, "Mind Your Own Business," and an original sketch called " A Steamboat Disaster " were given. Polly Marshall first appeared at this house March i as Polly Crisp in the farce " Unprotected Female, " and as Captain Charlotte in the farce of that name. March 2 "The Heir at Law" was acted, when Virginia C. Howard made her d^but here as Caroline Dormer. " Green Bushes " was seen March 3, with H. F. Daly, his first ap- pearance, as Connor O' Kennedy. Harry A. Perry was added to the company March 13 and opened as Alfred Evelyn in "Money." March 15 "Flowers of the Forest" was done for the first time here. March 22, " Jonathan Bradford " : H. F. Daly played Jonathan; Harry Perry, Dan Macraisy; and Jos. Jefferson, Caleb Scrimmidge.
"The Elves, or the Statue Bride," March 27; "Flowers of the Forest " was revived April 7. " Plot and Passion " was revived April 12. s
The theatre was closed Wednesday evening, April 21, for a dress rehearsal of "Blanche of Brandywine," which had its first representation April 22. The scenery was painted by Minard Lewis (his first effort in this city). This was the cast:
General Washington . Edwin Varrey Col. Frazier J. Burnett
General Green McDouall Seth Hope .... Jos. Jefferson
Sampson W. Denham Krout C. Peters
Gilbert Gates (first appear- Clerewood .... Arthur AUeyne
ance in this city . . . Frank Bangs Rose Frazier .... Miss AUeyne
Blanche of Brandywine . Laura Keene Sally Miss Warde
Randulph H. F. Daly Gen. Howe Mr. Martin
John Walford . . . C. Wheatleigh Geo. Percy .... Milnes Levick
On this occasion a new drop-curtain was shown, painted by Del- amane, and representing a fac-simile of Leutze's picture of " Wash- ington Crossing the Delaware." "Blanche of Brandywine" was played for the last time May 12; also "An Unequal Match," for the benefit of Joseph Jefferson. E. A. Sothern made his first appearance here acting Harry ArnclifEe in "An Unequal Match." Geo. W. Stoddart died July 9, 1888, at the residence of his father- in-law, Neil Burgess, at Atlantic Highlands, N. J. He came to this country in 1853, and made his American debut in Boston at the National Theatre. His best work was as a leading comedian with the elder Booth, Edwin Forrest, Macready, Charlotte Cushman, and Chas. Kean. His last appearance on the stage was as the Elder in " The Widow Bedott. " Mrs. D. P. Bowers appeared May 17, 1858, in "The Lady of Lyons." In the company were: Sara
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Hemple, F. B. Conway, George Boniface, L. R. Shewell, Fred Dubois, W. B. Chapman, W. Davidge, Anna Cruise, Sara Stevens, Mrs. Josh Silsbee, and Cornelia Jefferson. "Camille" was acted May 18. William Davidge first appeared here as John Small in "The Two Buzzards." May 20, "The Jealous Wife;" May 21, "Fazio, the Italian Wife;" May 22, "The Willow Copse;" May 23, 24, "Leap Year;" May 25, 26, "The Hunchback;" May 27, 28, "The King's Rival;" May 29, "Love and Loyalty," when Mrs. Bowers' engagement ended. J. H. Hackett com- menced May 31 as Sir John Falstaff, in "The Merry Wives of Windsor," which he repeated June i, 2. C. Walcot acted Sir Hugh Evans and Mrs. Walcot, Mrs. Page. June 3 Hackett acted Mons. Mallett in the comedy of that name, and O'Callaghan in "His Last Legs." Mrs. Bowers took a benefit June 5, and played Margaret Elmore in "Love's Sacrifice." Mrs. F. B. Conway acted Hermione; E. A. Sothern was also in the cast. Matilda Her- on's new play, "Mathiide," was seen June 7 for the first time in this city. The theatre closed very suddenly June 10. E. A. Sothern came before the curtain and said :
" Ladies and gentlemen — I am under the painful necessity of announcing to you that there will be no performance this evening. (A voice — ' Because of the smallness of the audience, I suppose.' ') No, sir, Matilda Heron and the rest of the company are dressed for their parts, but I have this moment been notified by two parties to pay the rent, both of whom claim it, and if I pay it to one party I am threatened with a prosecution by the other. Under these circumstances, therefore, I think it better to close the establish- ment, and the audience will receive their money at the box office."
It was rumored that a fracas took place in the greenroom between the respective allies of Laura Keene, Matilda Heron and Mrs. D. P. Bowers, and that during the mel6e Mr. Sothern rushed forward and made the above announcement to prevent an expose.
The next season opened Aug. 25, 1858, with "The Willow Copse," and this cast:
Sir Richard .... E. A. Sothern Luke Fielding . . C. W. Couldock Arthur Apsley . . . . W. Marden
Augustus Jos. JeSerson
Bubblemere H. Wharton
Fungus Mr. Clinton
Lucy Sara Stevens
Meg Mrs. Sothern
Col. Vanguard Dick Hulks . Staggers . . Lady Apsley . Rose Fielding Georgiana Miss Apsley .
J. G. Burnett Edwin Varrey . . C. Peters . Mary Wells . Laura Keene Eliza Couldock Lillie Marden
There were two additions to the company this season. Charles W. Couldock, who had not been in America for nine years, was one of them, and William R. Blake the other. After the drama Louise Lamoureux and George Smith did a dance. Sept. 2
132 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE tiSsB
Plunkett's drama, "The Advocate," was acted for the first time here, and in honor of the telegraph celebration " Love and Light- ning, or the Telegraph Cable " was played. In the cast were Kate and Maria Duckworth. " The Rivals " was seen Sept. 6, and in- troduced here Mr. and Mrs. William R. Blake :
Sir Anthony W. R. Blake
Falkland Frank Bangs
David Chas. Peters
Fag Milnes Levick
Mrs. Malaprop . . Mrs. W. R. Blake Lydia Languish . . . Laura Keene
Lucy . . . Capt. Absolute Sir Lucius Bob Acres Julia . . .
Mrs. Sothern E. A. Sothern J. G. Burnett Jos. Jefferson Sara Stevens
On Sept. 7, "Louis XI.," with Charles W. Couldock in the title r61e, and Laura Keene as the Dauphin. "The School for Scandal" had this cast Sept. 13:
Sir Peter Teazle Sir Oliver Surface Joseph Surface . Charles Surface Crab tree . . .
Wm. Rufus Blake
J. G. Burnett
C. W. Couldock
. E. A. Sothern
Joseph Jefferson
Sir Benjamin Backbite Charles Peters Careless Frank Bangs
Rowley William Marden
Moses Edwin Varrey
Trip Milnes Levick
Lady Teazle Laura Keene
Lady Sneerwell .... Mary Wells Mrs. Candour . Mrs. Wm. R. Blake Maria Sara Stevens
It will be seen that this comedy was revived with the smaller parts filled by excellent artists, while the principal characters were sustained by eight acknowledged stars. Sept. 20 " Old Heads and Young Hearts " was done; Sept. 27, "The Road to Ruin " and the farce " Jenny Lind, " in which Marion Macarthy appeared as " Jenny Leatherlungs. Oct. 4, "London Assurance," had this cast:
Sir Harcourt Courtley (first
appearance this season) J. S. Browne Dazzle (first appearance this
season) Chas. Walcot
Charles Courtley . . E. A. Sothern
Meddle Wm. R. Blake
Max Harkaway - . . J. G. Burnett
James
Solomon Isaacs . . Lady Gay Spanker Dolly Spanker . ,
Cool
Grace Harkaway .
. . B. Brown Mr. Wharton Laura Keene Chas. Peters
Milnes Levick Sara Stevens
Benjamin Brown died in this city Sept. 22, 1890, of consump- tion. He left a widow and one child. He was buried in the Actors' Fund plot. "She Stoops to Conquer" was revived Oct. 8, and, for the first time, the burlesque English opera " Fra Dia- volo," in which Effie Germon made her bow as Zerlina. Jefferson played Beppo.
"Our American Cousin," by Tom Taylor, was first produced Oct. 18, 1858. After the reading of the comedy to the company, and before the characters were cast, Charles W. Couldock was asked if he would play Coyle, the lawyer, or Abel Murcott, his clerk.
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He declined to play either of them. Sothern was cast for Lord Dundreary, a fourth-rate old man, with only forty-seven lines to speak. He also refused the part, but he and Couldock finally agreed with Mr. Burnett, the stage manager, to play on the condi- tion that both Dundreary and Abel Murcott should be rewritten. In writing up Dundreary, Sothern threw into it everything that struck him as wildly absurd. He added " business " and words, and sneezes, and hops, skips and jumps, until it became the most attrac- tive part in the piece. He may really be said to have invented the part. He cut out the "cellar scene," a "drunken act," and so re- arranged the play that instead of seventeen scenes, which it had when it came from the hands of Tom Taylor, Sothern gave it in four acts of one scene each. On the first night no one knew what Sothern was going to do, and the reading of Sam's letter was a surprise to everybody, although the part was by no means a pro- nounced success. In fact, it was two or three weeks before the people began to understand what Sothern meant. " Our American Cousin " proved a great favorite with the public. Without having any particular merit as a literary work, it was the most successful comedy produced here in many years. This was the original cast:
Asa Trenchard . . Joseph Jefferson Sir Edward Trenchard, Edwin Varrey Lord Dundreary . . E. A. Sothern Lieut. Vernon . . . Milnes Levick
Capt. De Boots Clinton
Coyle Burnett
Abel IVIurcott . . C. W. Couldock
Binney Chas. Peters
Buddicombe McDouall
Rasper Wharton
John Whicker .... B. Brown Florence Trenchard . Laura Keene Mrs. Mountchessington . Mary Wells
Augusta Efifie Germon
Georgiana . . . Mrs. E. A. Sothern Mary Meredith . . . Sara Stevens
Sharpe Miss Flynn
Skillet Mrs. Levick
A matinde performance of " Our American Cousin " took place Dec. 25. Laura Honey became a member of the company Dec. 27, making her ddbut as Gertrude in "A Loan of a Lover." Laura Honey was afterwards known as Laura Church Honey Stevenson. She died at Oakland, Cal., Dec. 25, 1884. Wednesday, Dec. 29, a matinee performance was for the benefit of the Mount Vernon Fund. Feb. 5, 1859, a display of fireworks was given. In com- memoration of Washington's Birthday, a series of tableaux illus- trative of the life of the father of his country were given. They showed Washington as a surveyor, a farmer, a son, and as a gen- eral. Charles Peters' benefit took place March 12 when Master Fred W. Peters made his first appearance on any stage as Master Peter White in "Mr. and Mrs. Peter White." R. C. Carpenter was succeeded as prompter by F, S. Reignolds Dec. 6, who in turn gave way Feb. 17 to L. J. Vincent. 1 April i "The Heir at Law" was revived :
134 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D859
Zekiel Homespun Lady Duberly Caroline Dormer Cicely Homespun Lord Duberly
, . E. A.' Sothern
Mrs. W. R. Blake
Sara Stevens
, . Laura Keene
, . W. R. Blake
Steadfast Edwin Varrey
Henry Moreland Dick Dowlas Dr. Pangloss Kenrick James . . John . .
Wm. Harden
Milnes Levick
Jos. Jefferson
Chas. Peters
F. Evans
B. Brown
" Our American Cousin " was played for the last time April 15, 1859.
"La Femme Forte," produced in Paris in 1847, contained a character similar to that of Asa Trenchard. On the occasion of the appearance of Josh S. Silsbee in London, it occurred to Tom Taylor that " La Femme Forte " could be adapted to suit him. The adaptation was made by Taylor, according to the instructions of Mr. Josh Silsbee, and the piece was paid for by Benjamin Webster, manager of the Adelphi Theatre, London, where Mr. Silsbee was then playing. Finding it impossible to produce it during Mr. Silsbee's stay, Mr. Webster made it over, with all rights to Silsbee, who shortly afterwards returned to America and died in California, Dec. 22, 1855. On his death, Mrs. Silsbee disposed of the play to William Wheatley and John S. Clarke. Tom Taylor, although already paid for his work, had written another version, and disposed of it to Laura Keene for ;^i,ooo, and, during that lady's production of it, it had undergone many alterations and improvements, particulars of which had been furnished to John S. Clarke by Mr. Jefferson. On the production of the play in Phila- delphia Clarke had paid Laura Keene for the use of it, and therein alone was he in error, as the original had become his property, and imitations or adaptations of any kind could have been suppressed. The question occurs, what right had Tom Taylor to sell to Laura Keene the property of another? This play proved to E. A. Sothern the most successful of any he ever acted in. He played it about one thousand times in this country, and in London and the provin- cial towns over twenty-six hundred times. The great charm in his acting lay in the polished ease and finished style so peculiarly his own. In Lord Dundreary these attributes were more conspicuous than in any other of the long list of characters which he made famous, E. A. Sothern died in London, Eng., Jan. 20, 1881. In August, 1894, a memorial was erected over his grave in Southamp- ton cemetery by his son, E. H. Sothern. As nearly as possible it is a duplicate of the memorial erected to the memory of Ade- laide Neilson in Kensal Green cemetery. The inscription on the memorial says : " Edward Askew Sothern (comedian), born April I, 1826; died January 20, 1881."
Sothern made his American debut at Boston, Mass., in 1852, under the name of Douglas Stewart. He then came to New York and was a member of Barnum's Museum company. He next ap-
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LAURA KEENE'S VARIETIES
135
peared at the old Broadway; afterwards at Wallack's (Broadway and Broome Street), where Colin Stuart was a memher of the com- pany, and this caused Sothern to resume his real name. From Wallack's he came to this theatre.
The theatre was closed May 16 for a dress rehearsal of "A Mid- summer Night's Dream," which was given May 18 with this cast:
Theseus .... C. W. Couldock
Lysander E. A. Sothern
Demetrius Milnes Levick
Egeus Wm. Harden
Philostrate .... Frank Evans
Hippolyta Mary Wells
Hermia Sara Stevens
Helena Ada Clifton
Nick Bottom .... W. R. Blake Quince Edwin Varrey
Snug B. Brown
Flute Chas. Peters
Snout J. Henry
Oberon Marion Macarthy
Titania ..... Eliza Couldock
Puck Laura Keene
Peas Blossom . . . Miss J. Henrv
Moth Mrs. McDouall
Cobweb Miss Taylor
Mustard Seed . . . Mrs. Marden
C. W. Couldock's benefit occurred June 2, when Felix A. Vin- cent made his first appearance in this city in four years, acting Bobtail in "My Precious Betsy," and Mr. Ferment in "School of Reform." The season closed June 4 with a benefit to Laura Keene. The bill consisted of " All that Glitters is not Gold " and " Pet of the Petticoats. " A summer season was commenced June 6 with Adelaide and Josey Gougenheim as the stars in " Court and Stage." Adelaide Gougenheim played her farewell engagement at Louisville, Ky. ; the following season she left the stage and married Mr. Frisbie, a gentleman from London. Josey continued on the stage.
The season of 1859-60 commenced Aug. 29 with Laura Keene, Ada Clifton, Marion Macarthy, Mary Wells, Mrs. Mark Smith, Annie Deland, Miss C. Henry, Florence Bell, Miss Mortimer, Ada James, Mary Everett, Messrs. Jeffries, George Jordan, Mark Smith, Charles Wheatleigh, J. G. Burnett, Felix A. Vincent, H. F. Daly, Chas. Peters, J. A. Smith, Leon J. Vincent, Milnes Levick, Henry, and Mortimer, as the company. "House and Home, " by Tom Taylor, was acted with this cast :
Horace Chetwood . . . Geo. Jordan Gen. Witherington . . J. G. Burnett Fred Morton H. F. Daly
Lady Helen Ada Clifton
Harriet Wardour . . Laura Keene Hopwood Florence Bell
The afterpiece was "Our Clerks, or Suppose War were De- clared. " Mark Smith first appeared Sept. 5 as Joseph Ironsides in " Nine Points of the Law. " First time in America of Palgrave Simpson's comedy of "World and Stage" was Sept. 12. It had this cast:
136 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE ZiSs9
Fanny Kelly .... Laura Keene Lady Castlecrag .... Ada Clifton
Miss Lipglue Mary Wells
Col. Gabble J. A. Smith
Trimmer Florence Bell
Buzzard F. A. Vincent
Harry Malpas .... Geo. Jordan Leonard Ashton . . . . H. F. Daly
Dazzey Browser . . . Chas. Peters Hon. Mrs. Cruickshanks Annie Deland Norman Castlecrag . . J. G. Burnett Hetty Stubbs . . . Marion Macarthy Daniel Dunlap (first appear- ance in New York) W. H. Stephens Lady Fanny Gabble Mrs. Mark Smith Morcea Chas. Wheatleigh
"The Sea of Ice" was revived Sept. 29. "A Midsummer Night's Dream" was given Oct. 21, with Mark Smith as Bottom. For the first time in America "The Election," by Tom Taylor, was seen Oct. 6, and with this cast:
Dodgson . Wapshott . Gathercole . Spatchcock Trundle James . .
Geo. Jordan
. H. F. Daly
J. G. Burnett
J. A. Smith
Milnes Levick
F. Evans
Honeybun Mark Smith
Peckover Chas. Peters
Topper Chas. Wheatleigh
Clara Annie Deland
Mrs. Honeybun . . . Laura Keene
The farce "Antony and Cleopatra" was also acted. "The Wife's Secret" was produced for the first time here Nov. 9 and cast thus :
Sir Walter Geo. Jordan
Richard Henry
James Evans
Robert Munerett
Neville Marion Macarthy
Maud Mary Wells
Lady Evelyn .... Laura Keene
Lord Arden H. F. Daly
Jabez Sneed . . . . J. G. Burnett
Brouillard C. Wheatleigh
Lieut. Harrington . . . M. Levick Harry Jeffries
This play was originally brought out at the old Park Theatre by Charles Kean and Ellen Tree.
Dec. I the burlesque of " Norma " was seen : Signora Markini Smitherini as Norma, Madame Felixcia A. Vincentio as Adelgisa. For Mark Smith's benefit, Dec. 10, "Still Waters Run Deep," with Mrs. Plunkett as Mrs. Mildmay; Charles Wheatleigh played John Mildmay, Mark Smith was the Potter, George Jordan, Capt. Hawksley; and the new American comedy "Distant Relations" was also given with this cast:
John Arkright .... Mark Smith Chas. Dashwell . . . . J. A. Smith Julian Fitz Glitter . . F. A. Vincent Edwin Modeville . . Milnes Levick
Tompkins C. Peters
Jemmy . . . Master Fred Wren
Search L. J. Vincent
Adam Henry
Mrs. Modeville . . Marion Macarthy John Arkright, Jr. . . Mary Bullock
Mrs. Dashwell . . . Annie Deland
Bridget Josephine Henry
Mrs. Dr. Rackendsack
Mrs. Mark Smith
Mrs. Dobbs . . Anna Maria Dobbs Geo. Arkright Tolly .... Paddy Murphy . Deacon Smooth .
. Mary Wells Laura Keene . H. F. Daly J. G. Burnett C. Wheatleigh Dan Leeson
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LAURA KEENE'S VARIETIES
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" Green Bushes " was played Dec. 30, and continued until Jan. 9, i860i when, for the first time on any stage, Boucicault's "Jeannie Deans," a dramatization of Scott's "Heart of Midlo- thian," was seen. Dion Boucicault had been at the Winter Gar- den Theatre, but, having some difficulty, he and his wife, Agnes Robertson, left, and joined Laura Keene's forces.
The Duke of Argyle . Mark Smith David Deans (expressly engaged)
Charles Fisher Laird of Dumbiedikes
(expressly engaged) . Dan Leeson Geordie Robertson . . . H. F. Daly Reuben Butler . . . Milnes Levick Madge Wildfire . . Marion Macarthy Jeannie Deans . . Agnes Robertson
Counsel for the Crown
Chas. Wheatleigh Counsel for the Defence
Dion Boucicault
Ratcliffe J. G. Burnett
Archibald Chas. Peters
Meg Mary Wells
The Queen . . . Mrs. Mark Smith Effie Deans .... Laura Keene
This is the first cast in which Dion Boucicault's name ever ap- peared in this country without an r in it. From his first appear- ance in America, on all programmes, posters, advertisements, and on all of his play books, his name was spelled " Bourcicault. " So it was when "Jeannie Deans" was first announced (Jan. 7, i860), but when the above cast appeared the r was dropped from his name, and continued so till his death. " Vanity Fair, or Vain of their Vices" was next done with this cast:
Virginie Pate . Rose .... Edgar Lambert Old Lambert . Hector Pate . Chicken . . . Maxine Latour
. Laura Keene Agnes Robertson Dion Boucicault . J. G. Burnett . Felix Vincent . Chas. Peters Chas. Fisher
The Duke de Calatrava
Chas. Wheatleigh
Jerome Dan Leeson
Balaclava Annie Deland
Mile. Celeste .... Mary Wells Francine Mrs. Fox
The theatre was closed March 28 for a dress rehearsal of " The Colleen Bawn," which was acted for the first time on any stage March 29 and ran until the close of the season on May 12, having been performed thirty-eight nights. The following card appeared in the programme :
Laura Keene : My dear Madame, — Here is another drama — my last for this season. It was written in five days, and the labor has rather overtaxed me, as this makes the seventh I have written within the space of twenty-eight weeks — one five act play, five three act dramas, and a burlesque. This piece is called " The Colleen Bawn," and is Irish to the backbone. It is the first time I have taken a subject from my native country, and, quickly as the work has been executed, I am not the less satisfied with it. 'T will be found to be, I think, the best constructed of any of my works. Whatever demerits it may liave, it is my happiest efEort in that particular. The public must determine the rest.
Dion Boucicault.
138 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C'seo
'The Colleen Bawn " had this cast:
Eily O'Connor . . Agnes Robertson Myles-na-Coppaleen . Dion Boucicault Mrs. Cregan (first appearance here)
Mme. Ponisi Ducie Blennerhassett Josephine Henry Kyrle Daly . . . Charles Fisher Danny Mann . . . . C. Wheatleigh
Hardress Cregan Corrigan . . Sheelah . . Father Tom . Hyland Creagh Bertie O'Moore Anne Chute .
. H. F. Daly J. G. Burnett . Mary Wells . Dan Leesoa . M. Levick . Mrs. Henry Laura Keene
The season of 1860-61 opened Sept. 10, with T. B. De Walden's drama, " The Monkey Boy," adapted from the," Le Petite Prologue." It had this cast :
Pierre Renaud . . C. W. Couldock Jacques Renaud . . . Laura Keene Joseph Rouquet . . . J. G. Burnett Hon. S. Spooner . . T. B. Johnston Lucien Girard . . . . H. F. Daly
Picket Charles Peters
Taupin Dan Leeson
Maurice Milnes Levick
Gervaise
Paul .
Raoul .
Le Noir
Fauvette
Rose
Madame Mignonette
Coralie
Mr. Bernard . . Mr. Barton Geo. W. Lingard Josephine Henry . Polly Marshall Mrs. J. H. Allen Mrs. H. Vinine . Lotty Hough
James G. Burnett died in Chicago, 111., March 19, 1870. The company for this season consisted of : Laura Keene, Polly Marshall, Mrs. J. H. Allen, Mrs. H. Vining, Lotty Hough, Josephine Henry, Miss Oswald, Miss Francis, Miss Everett, Miss Bullock, Eliza Couldock, Miss Bleecker, C. W. Couldock, J. G. Burnett, H. F. Daly, T. B. Johnston, C. Peters, Dan Leeson, Milnes Levick, George Lingard, Henry, Wren, Clinton, Arthur, Markham, Wall, Gledhill, Bernard, Goodrich, Barton, Miss Melvin, Miss Willoughby, Miss C. Engel, Miss Hattie Engel, Lizzie Murphy, G. F. Browne, B. G. Rogers, Mr. de Little, and Mrs. W. H. Leighton. Laura Keene offered $1,000 to any American dramatist for the best three-act comedy, to be entitled " Our American Cousin at Home."
Oct. I, "Aileen Aroon, or the Lady of Glenmire," was acted for the first time here. It was founded on " La Dame de St. Tropez," and had this cast :
Father McPaudeen . Barnaby Blenkinsop Aileen Barradan . . Kathleen Barradan . Mrs. Blenkinsop
. . D. Leeson . . C. Peters Laura Keene Mrs. J. H. Allen . Polly Marshall
Milly Maginnis . . . Lotty Hough Gorman Barradan . . . . H. Daly Philip Warner . . . . M. Levick
Lang Mulligan Burnett
Nelly Eliza Couldock
On Oct. 9 B. A. Baker became prompter. " Physic and Fancy, or the Hypochondriac," an adaptation from Moliere's " La Malade Im- aginaire," by Charles Reade, was produced Nov. 5, with this cast :
Argan J. G. Burnett
Arnolde Harry Wall
Poinette Laura Keene
Louison .... Mrs. J. H. Allen
Belline Lotty Hough
Thos. Diaforius .... C. Peters
Bercalde, first appearance here
Geo. F. Browne Angelique, first appearance
on the stage . . Miss Willoughby Dr. Pargon D. Leeson
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Gay's " Beggars' Opera," condensed into one act, was also sung. Miss Melvin making her first appearance as Captain Macheath. " The Unprotected Female " was seen Nov. 3, with :
. . Mr. Goodrich
Polly Crisp Tim Temple
Polly Marshall I Nicodemus Crisp . Harry Wall |
" Toodles a Father," a farce by T. B. De Walden, was first played Nov. 12. The theatre was closed for rehearsal, Nov. 24, of " The Seven Sisters," first acted Nov. 26. It was founded upon the old German play, " The Seven Daughters of Satan," and had this cast:
MORTALS
Arthur Stunner . . . . H. F. Daly 1 Catchem Mr. Wren
Snail Mr. Barton | Mary Springleaf .... Mrs. Allen
IMMORTALS
Pluto Dan Leeson
Astaroth T. B. Johnston
Demonos Milnes Levick
Cuffee J. G. Burnett
Mrs. Pluto Mr. C. Peters
Diavoline Laura Keene
Plutilla Polly Marshall
Farcinella .... Eliza Couldock Spirit of Arthur's Sister Miss Francis
Tartarina Lotty Hough
Sulphurina .... Mrs. H. Vining
During the spectacle a burlesque drama, entitled " The Murderous Mother," was acted. George F. Browne represented the remorseless tyrant Mrs. G. F. Browne (formerly Louisa Pray, sister of Mrs. Barney Williams and Mrs. Wm. J. Florence) danced. This pro- duction was so successful that it served to fill Laura Keene's Theatre for one hundred and seventy-seven nights. The transformation scene, painted by James Roberts, from the Theatre Royal, Covent Garden, London, was "The Birth of the Butterfly in the Bower of Ferns." It was one of the most beautiful pictures ever attempted on the American stage. Ben G. Rogers was engaged Jan. 21, 1861, and a Yankee part was introduced for him, called Doubtful Towrail. Feb. 1 1 Mr. Miles, the author (of Baltimore), introduced a second act of national tableaux, entitled " Uncle Sam's Magic Lantern," and introduced the following new characters :
South Carolina . . . Polly Marshall
Ohio Miss Willoughby
Virginia Hattie Engel
Columbia .... Mrs. J. H. Allen Liberty Mrs. H. Vining
Uncle Sam . . Disunion . . Diogenes . . Massachusetts Maine . . .
. . B. G. Rogers . . G. F. Browne T. B. Johnston . . Lotty Hough Mrs. G. F. Browne
Feb. 27 was the one hundredth night of "The Seven Sisters;" a display of fireworks was seen in front of the theatre. April 22 Laura Keene made further alterations in the second act. Mrs. W. H. Leighton acted Laura Keene's r61e of Diavoline, while that lady went to the country. April 29 the receipts were devoted to the relief of the families of the New York Volunteers. J. G. Burnett took
140 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Ci86a
his benefit May 4; Mrs. J. H. Allen, May 6; T.B. Johnston, May ri ; Thos. Baker, May 15; Charles Peters, May 18; and Lotty Hough, May 20. This was the last appearance on the stage of T. B. John- ston, an actor of great talent. He died May 27.
July 8 Mrs. J. H. Allen retired from the company and Mrs. W. H. Leighton " doubled " Columbia with Diavoline. After a run of eight months and fourteen days (consecutively), "The Seven Sisters" was played for the last time Aug. 10, i86r. When the season closed George Lingard retired from the theatre and went to his brother's New Bowery theatre, where he commenced July 15, 1861, and remained until the theatre was burned down. His last appear- ance on the stage was at the Arch Street Theatre, Philadelphia, in Oct., 1876, acting in " Davy Crockett." He died in this city Oct. 28, 1876.
The season of 1861-62 commenced Sept. 23. In the company were Mrs. J. H. Allen, Mrs. Owen Marlowe, Lotty Hough, Mrs.F. S. Chanfrau, Laura Keene, Sara Stevens, lone Burke, Francis Dillon, Robertson, J. G. Burnett, Milnes Levick, H. F. Daly, Owen Marlowe, J. H. Stoddart, C. Burnett, C. Peters, Richardson, and Bilby. The opening play was " The Seven Sons," and had this cast :
Diavoline Laura Keene
Columbia .... Mrs. J. H. Allen
Satanella Sara Stevens
Tartarus Lotty Hough
Asmodeus . . . Mrs. F. S. Chanfrau
Diavolus lone Burke
Molasses Miss Francis
Sulphurus . . . Mrs. Owen Marlowe Mephistopheles . . Miss Robertson
Pluto J. G. Burnett
Caesar Milnes Levick
Jake Butt H. F. Daly
Fred Flutter . . . Owen Marlowe Mrs. Pluto C. Peters
It proved to be a spectacular burlesque and had a run of nearly one hundred nights. Nov. 18 it was altered and rewritten. Dec. 24 " Little Tom, or a Christmas Carol," written expressly for this theatre by Mercer Morris, was produced. " Robinson Crusoe " was acted the same night. These plays continued until Jan. g, 1862, when "Our American Cousin " was revived, and the cast was : Asa Trenchard (first appearance in that character), John T. Raymond, Sir Edward, Owen Marlowe ; Lord Dundreary, Milnes Levick. This play held the boards until Feb. 22, when Laura Keene's adaptation, entitled " The Macarthy or Peep o' Day," was given with this cast :
The Macarthy Nelly Brady . Mary Kelly Father Peter . Peery Riordon Darby Kelly . The Babby . . Capt. Macneary
. . D. W. Waller Mrs. D. W. Waller . Laura Keene . J. G. Burnett . . . Dillon . J. H. Stoddart J. T. Raymond Owen Marlowe
This was Mr. and Mrs. Waller' Laura Keene was taken ill March
Terrence McGown Aleck Purcell . Capt. Howard . Larry Macdade John Gaul . . Helen Macneary Patsey Moore . Mrs. Mulrooney
s first appearance at this theatre. 17, and Sara Stevens acted Mary
. C. Peters . H. F. Daly Milnes Levick . lone Burke Miss Marks Mrs. J. H. Allen . . lone Burke Mrs. Owen Marlowe
1862]
LAURA KEENE'S VARIETIES
141
Kelly, in "The Macarthy." March 24 Mrs. Allen was taken ill, when Mrs. Marlowe played Helen and Mrs. Dillon " doubled " Widow Mulrooney and Mrs. Molloy. This play ran until April 30, when the house closed until May 5, when "Reason and Folly," adapted from the French for this house, had its first production. In it Laura Keene played nine different characters, and Mrs. Waller enacted seven different r6Ies. May 26, " Half a Dollar " and the burlesque of " The Elves, or the Fairy Bride " was seen. May 29, John Nickinson appeared (for the first time in ten years) as Haversack, in " The Old Guard." Isabella Nickinson played Melanie. " The Post Boy " was played June 2, with Nickinson as Spurrit. Tom Baker had a benefit June 4, when Seiiorita Isabel Cubas and Don Ximenes appeared for the first time at this theatre.
A summer season began June 9 with the first production, under the direction of Maggie Mitchell, in New York, of " Fanchon," adapted from the German of Charlotte Birch-Pfeiffer by A. Wildeur. It had this cast :
Fanchon .... Maggie Mitchell Father Barbeaud . . . J. H. Stoddart
Landry J. W. Collier
Didier A. H. Davenport
Pierre C. T. Parsloe
Colin Bilby
July 7 " The Young Prince, or the Frolics of a King's Son," was presented with this cast:
Father Caliard . . . . T. J. Hind Old Fadet .... Mrs. T. J. Hind Mother Barbeaud, Mrs. H. P. Grattan Madelon . . . Mrs. J. H. Stoddart Marietta . . Adele Plunkett Grattan
. Maggie Mitchell
. . Mrs. Grattan
Mrs. J. H. Stoddart
King Frederick . . . J. H. Stoddart Prince Frederick .
Count RenderofF . . . . T. J. Hind Queen of Prussia
Captain Rosenberg . . J. W. Collier Dorothea . . .
Carl Aldeshott . . A. H. Davenport
" Katty O'Sheal " was played the same night, when Miss Nelson made her first appearance, acting Florence O'Connor. July 1 1 " Margot, the Poultry Dealer," was seen.
Margot Maggie Mitchell I Burgomaster . . . . J. H. Stoddart
Count de Newburg . A. H. Davenport | Herman J. W. Collier
" The Little Treasure " and " The Pet of the Petticoats " was seen July 13 ; July 18, for the benefit of Miss Mitchell, " Fanchon " was played, and the season closed July 19.
For the season of 1862-63 the company was thus composed: Mr. and Mrs. Wm. R. Blake, Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Hind, Charles Wheat- leigh, Chas. Walcot, Jr., John T. Raymond, Walter Lennox, Stuart Robson, Mrs. Sedley Brown, Laura and Clara Leigh, Ada Clifton, Isabella Nickinson, Emma Taylor, Mary Everett, C. Peters, Bilby, B. A. Baker, Richardson, Lotty Hough, Mrs. F. S. Chanfrau, Mr. and Mrs. Owen Marlowe, Laura Keene, and lone Burke. The
142 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE E1863
season commenced Sept. 22, 1862, with " Old Heads and Young Hearts." Chas. Wheatleigh played Tom Coke ; W. R. Blake, Jessie Rural; Charles Walcot, Jr., Lyttleton Coke; Laura Keene, Lady Alice; Stuart Robson (first appearance in New York) as Bob. Sept. 24, John T. Raymond was seen as Tony Lumpkin, and W. R. Blake as Hardcastle, in " She Stoops to Conquer." Oct. 20, " No Rest for the Wicked," had its first performance in New York with this cast :
Genet W. R. Blake Madame Bidant
Fernand .... Chas. Walcot, Jr. Mrs. Robertson (Brougham)
Pomaire Stuart Robson Madame Clarie Genet . Laura Leigh
Courtaine .... J. H. Stoddart Montar Walter Lennox
Castelle Owen Marlowe Antoine Charles Peters
Mme. Fernand . . . Laura Keene
Nov. 12, " Rachel the Reaper," was acted at this theatre, Charles Wheatleigh resuming his original character of Corporal Patrick. Laura Keene as Rachel, and the remaining characters were distrib- uted as follows : Mr. Hathorne, J. H. Stoddart ; Robert Hathorne, H. F. Daly; Paddy, John T. Raymond; Dick Hickman, Milnes Levick ; Dame Hathorne, Mrs. Robertson ; and Rose Mayfield, lone Burke. Nov. 17, 18, 19, "No Rest for the Wicked" was repeated; Nov. 20 and 21 "Masks and Faces" was presented; Nov. 22 and 24 the house was closed for rehearsal, and Nov. 25 an extravaganza entitled " Blondette, or the Naughty Prince and the Pretty Peasant " was seen with this cast :
Lubln . . .
Cainbille . .
Trufio . . .
King Merlin .
Prince Merlin .
John T. Raymond Walter Lennox Stuart Robson J. H. Stoddart
. . Emma Taylor
Blondette Uria . . Rosette . Mignonette Rampage
Mrs. Sedley Brown
Isabella Nickinson
Mrs. J. H. Stoddart
. . . lone Burke
. Mrs. Robertson
Jan. 4, 1863, Mrs. John Wood appeared here as Victoire in "The Invincibles," and Jenny Leatherlungs in "Jenny Lind at Last; " Jan. 11, in " The Pride of the Market" and " Betsy Baker; " Jan. 26, in " The Pet of the Petticoats " and " Mr. and Mrs. White." Jan. 30 Mrs. Wood took a benefit in " The Pride of the Market " and "A Loan of a Lover." During the week commencing Feb. 2, " The Invincibles " and " A Loan of a Lover " formed the bill, and Feb. 9, the Planch^ extravaganza " The Fair One with the Golden Locks " was produced, with Mrs. Wood in the three parts of Lucidora, Pitchin, and the Original Jacobs. Chas. Walcot played King Lachrymoso, and Galiform was acted by the giant Col. Goshen. Mrs. John Wood closed March 14, and March 16 Laura Keene returned, and commenced a series of farewell appearances, prior to her withdrawal from the management of this house. The engagements of John T. Raymond and Walter Lennox had been abruptly terminated.
1863]
LAURA KEENE'S VARIETIES
143
An original drama, written expressly for Laura Keene, entitled " Jessy McLane " was produced March 23 with this cast :
John McLane . Arthur Marsden Mrs. Gimp . . Marker . . . Martin . . .
Chas. Wheatleigh . Chas. Walcot Jr. Isabella Nickinson . . Charles Peters . . Milnes Levick
Doctor J. H. Stoddart
Jessy McLane .... Laura Keene Polly Wright . . . Mrs. Robertson Betsy Brown lone Burke
April 6 "Bantry Bay, or Ireland in 1798 "was presented cast thus:
Billy Bluff W. R. Blake
Bryce Farley . . . Chas. Wheatleigh
Maurice Milnes Levick
Nellie O'Donohue . . Laura Keene
Fennie Dorgan . Isabella Nickinson
Phadrig Chas. Peters
Judith Mrs. Rouse
Mr. Hammond . . . . H. F. Daly
This was a new version of the play known as " St. Mary's Eve." W. R. Blake took his farewell benefit April 16, and made his last appearance on the New York stage as Sir Anthony Absolute in "The Rivals," and Geoffry Dale in "The Last Man." April 29 " Our American Cousin " and " Our Gal " were seen for the benefit of Milnes Levick. The theatre was closed April 28 and 29. From April 30 until May 2 " Our American Cousin " was acted, and May 4 a new burlesque, entitled " Tib, or Our Cat in Crinoline," was produced with this cast :
Tib Laura Keene Molkees Wm. Rouse
Frederick H. F. Daly Alice Laura Leigh
Christian .... Stuart Robson The Donkey 7 j^j^g Burke
Hans Chas. Peters Jenny J
Duke Chas. Walcot Titania .... Isabella Nickinson
Fritz J. H. Stoddart Oberon Miss Tyrrell
May 8 marked the close of the season and of Laura Keene's man- agement. " Second Love " and "Nature and Art" formed the bill of the night. For her benefit May 9 Matilda Heron appeared for the first time in " Phaedra " (first time in English), with this cast :
Phsedra .
Theseus
Aricia
.Matilda Heron
. . T. E. Mills
Mrs. Clara Leigh
Hippolytus J. H. Allen
Obereve Mrs. T. J. Hind
The third and fourth acts of " The Merchant of Venice " followed, with Daniel E. Bandmann as Shylock, George Becks as Gratiano, Owen Marlowe as Bassanio, T. E. Mills as Antonio, and Matilda Heron as Portia (first time). Isabel Cubas, the Spanish danseuse, was seen, and " The Spectre Bridegroom " was the afterpiece.
Laura Keene seemed to have lost her hold upon the New York public. The war excitement had unsettled theatrical matters as well as every other branch of business. But from the first there had been no settled line of policy at Laura Keene's ; all sorts of plays had been given, and the random playgoer never knew just what to
144 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE L1S63
expect. Shakespearean comedy, domestic drama, comic opera, and burlesque were jumbled together as if the hand that controlled the affairs of the house had been swayed by a capricious fancy. As for Laura Keene herself, she would undoubtedly have been a better artist if she had confined herself to a more limited field. The record of the theatre during Laura Keene's management is remarkable. Many players who have since won lasting fame wherever the English spoken drama has supporters played under her management, among whom were: Charles Couldock, Harry Perry, Thos. B. Johnston, James S. Browne, Chas. Walcot, Joseph Jefferson, Edward A. Sothern, John T. Raymond, Milnes Levick, Stuart Robson, Frank C. Bangs, Effie Germon, lone Burke, Ben G. Rogers, Walter Lennox, Charlotte Thompson, Eliza Couldock, and Rose Eytinge. During her managerial career Miss Keene determined to introduce the English style of running pieces for weeks, and possibly months — a custom then unknown to the American stage. The idea was derided by other managers. She, however, was successful, and the completeness of detail as regards scenic mounting and costuming as well as acting seen at this theatre was due solely to her persist- ent efforts. She died at Montclair, N. J., Nov. 4, 1873, aged forty- three years. Her last appearance was at Tidioute, Pa., July 4, 1873, while with her own travelling company, as Mrs. Chillington and Jane Chatterley, in " The Morning Call" and " The Stage Struck Barber."
It is a part of our national history that Laura Keene was acting Florence Trenchard in " Our American Cousin," at the National Theatre, Washington, D. C, the night Abraham Lincoln was assas- sinated in one of the stage boxes of that house, April 14, 1865. Laura Keene came to America in 1852, and opened at Wallack's Theatre, Broadway and Broome Street. Some time in January, 1854, she left the theatre, and went with John Lutz to California. Some months afterwards intelligence reached her of her husband's death, and she gave Mr. Lutz her hand in marriage. She was unques- tionably the most refined and finished of the English-speaking actresses of her time. In appearance she bore a strong resem- blance to Sarah Bernhardt, possessing the same elegance and grace, the same nose, so touched with character, and the same wealth of hair, crowded in golden sheaves around her head. She had, too, strange to say, many of Mile. Bernhardt's peculiarities, especially the flutter of the eyelids, which is peculiarly French. Without being a person of high mental power, she was one of very agreeable presence and of great buoyancy and elasticity of temperament — such a person as you would call a woman of cleverness, rather than a woman of genius. When Laura Keene played Camille, the lightness of her movements and grace of her appearance, made us admire the sinful Camille. At the time of her demise she was so terribly ema-
1867: LAURA KEENE'S VARIETIES 1 45
ciated that her most intimate friends would not have recognized her. Being painfully aware of that fact, she made a particular request, just before her death, that her funeral should be strictly private, and that no notice of her demise should be given to the newspapers until just before her funeral, so that her theatrical friends might not know of her death until she had been buried. On the morning of Nov. 7, about the hour of nine, a hearse and one carriage drove up to the little cot- tage on the outskirts of the town of Montclair, whence her spirit had winged its flight. The undertaker and his assistants bore the coffin to the hearse. Laura Keene's two daughters, accompanied by two friends, entered the carriage, and followed the remains to the little Catholic church. After the coffin had been deposited in front of the altar, and the few mourners had seated themselves, Father Joslin said a requiem mass, after which the remains were buried.
No braver, steadier, abler soldier ever battled in the ranks of art than Laura Keene ; no captain ever planned better or labored more perseveringly or with more success. Her inflexible energy and per- severance had few equals in any walk of life. It is a fact, not heretofore published, that she declined a public testimonial headed by General Sherman, purely from a self-sacrificing sensibility.
The following tribute to this lady I published in The New York Clipper November loth, 1873 :
" Obituary. — In the death of Laura Keene there is a befitting occasion for a tribute of mournful respect. It is, indeed, difficult to realize the solemn fact that this lady is now so early numbered among the silent dead. She, who in life was so cheerful, and whose benign influence shed such a kindly radiance round the social circle, winning all hearts by her genial qualities, alas ! now ' sleeps the sleep that knows no waking.' Well may the monarch of the tomb defer his impartial work for a season, and recline beneath the laurels he has won, for he has robbed the stage of one of its brightest and most valued jewels, the profes- sion of one of its most sparkling gems. Hers was no ordinary character. She was gifted with a nature exquisitely rare and gentle of unusual delicacy and cul- tivation, to which were added the graces of a meek and quiet spirit. She possessed a character of mind peculiar from the many, in that it was always stern and inflexible for the right, unwavering and jealous of the prospects of the suc- cess of whatever she might be engaged in. It is only those who knew her well and intimately that could estimate and properly appreciate her. The world generally supposes that goodness is more frequently extolled and appreciated in the dead than in the living. In one sense ttiis is true, because we do not fully and plainly see the many noble and generous traits in the character and lives of our friends until they are taken from us. Laura Keene was a woman of fine person and superior conversational powers. Her intercourse was full of dignity, and remarkable for its constant display of intelligence, good sense, and judgment. She was animated, witty, and agreeable. She well understood matters of business, and upon questions of conduct, the line of rectitude, and the adaptation of the best means to the highest ends, she was expert. Indeed, her solid qualities and knowledge of the perfect workings of the stage equaled those of any other living professional. Her wisdom was not greater than her energy and tenacity of purpose. She was so strict in business, so decided and so candid with every one, that she could never be misunderstood.. The charms of mind and her firmness
VOL. II. — 10
146 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1863
of purpose were crowned by a love of justice, and made acceptable by that nobleness and disinterestedness which ran throughout all her actions. As an actress, Laura Keene was possessed of great talent. Her voice was remarkably plaintive, yet capable of all the firmness and exertion which the intrepidity of fortitude or the impulse of sudden rage demands. Her eye was remarkably effective, her brow capable of disdain, or of dilating with the emotions of sympathy or pity. So entirely was she mistress of her art, so collected, and so determined in her gestures, tone, and manner, that she seldom erred. When she first appeared in this city, she soon was acknowledged as one of the most finished actresses that ever trod the boards. She was great in all her parts, and in her readings, perfect. Her natural talents were enhanced by diligent study. She not only comprehended, but she knew all the parts she undertook. She knew the old comedies and standard plays so thoroughly as to be enabled to prompt any one on the stage who needed momentary assistance. Her comedy was richly imbued with the essence which constitutes the principal charm of this delightful department of the drama. It would be difficult to select any one or two parts as being superior to others in the long range of characters she assumed; many, before considered unimportant, she elevated into respectability by the mere force of her acting. Her conceptions required not the fostering hand of study; they were not as the flower that grows in the dull earth, and matures by parts; they, indeed, owned a richer soil, and, while you looked, the peerless flower was up, consummate in the birth. Her style was different from that of other actresses — it was marked by a noble simplicity, of that chaste and quiet character which, although critically correct, was neither cold nor artificial, dis- daining for the sake of mere effect to sacrifice sense and outrage propriety. Her personations were rich, buoyant, and racy — never overstepping the modesty of nature, yet strongly drawn — and marked as being entirely separate and char- acteristic portraits, and with an entire absence of mannerism."
JANE ENGLISH'S THEATRE.
MRS. JANE ENGLISH, the mother of Lucille and Helen Western, next rented this house for a summer season, which began May 11, 1863; and among her attractions were the St. Dennis troupe, Alex. Zanfretta, Mile. Rosita, Signors Agouste, Caron, Alexander, and Montevari, and Miles. Hortense, Donetti, Louise and Josephine, the child Angelo, August Muller, viohnist, and Mile. Zoe, and subsequently the Milner operatic company.
A dramatic company, with Mr. and Mrs. Chapman, was added to the attraction May 25, by Mrs. English. John Duff, the well-known restaurateur, then became the lessee, and, after spending considera- ble money in decorating the interior, as well as in many improve- ments behind the curtain, the theatre was reopened Oct. 8, 1863, under the management of Mrs. John Wood.
MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC,
MRS. WOOD'S first company at her Olympic Theatre was com- posed of the following persons: Wm. Davidge, Sr., George Jamison, J. H. Stoddart, H. B. Phillips, George Becks, Thomas Owens, Frank Rea, G. H. Clarke, Charles Wyndham, C. T. Parsloe,
1863]
MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC
147
Jr., J. Hurley, Gledhill, Evans, Jones, Williams, Shields, Dale, Wells, Brogan, Taylor, Bruciani, and Charles Walcot; Mrs. John Wood, Mrs. Sedley Brown, Mrs. Wilkinson, Mrs. Walcot, Mrs. Frank Rea, Viola Plunkett Grattan, Adele Plunkett Grattan, Elsie Folsom, Louisa Carman, Jennie Walters, Morton, Elinore, Gilmer, Evans, Lloyd, A. Henrie, M. Henrie, Prestige, Augustin, Harris, and Jack- son. John H. Selwyn was stage manager and Thomas Baker musi- cal director.
The season opened Oct. 8, 1863, with " Married Daughters" and " Brothers and Sisters." This was the first performance of " Married Daughters," and it was cast as follows :
Mr. Gadbury . Mathew Fagg . Digby Spooner Alfred Vail . . Wee .... Mrs. Carey . . Mrs. Fagg . .
. . Geo. Jamison Wm. Davidge, Sr. . . . Geo. Becks . . G. H. Clarke . C. T. Parsloe Jr. . Mrs. Wilkinson Jennie Walters
Mrs. Spooner Anna . . . Sophia . . Jane . . . Mary . . . Mrs. Dander
Louisa Carman
Miss V. P. Grattan
Miss A. P. Grattan
. . Miss Morton
. Mrs. Frank Rea
. . Mrs. Wilmot
Mrs. John Wood acted Rosanthe, in the burletta of " Brothers and Sisters,"
Charles Wyndham, when he first came to this country, entered the Union army. After a brief military service, he came North, and was engaged at this theatre, but was discharged after the first week for incompetency. He then returned to the army, and remained until 1865, when he went back to England and reappeared on the stage. He was present at the battles of Chancellorsville, Fredericks- burg, Gettysburg, and all through the Red River campaign, under General Banks. He reappeared in America, at Wallack's Theatre, where he was for one season, after which he organized, and travelled as manager with, one of the first dramatic combinations on the road. It consisted of John Parselle, J. H. Fitzpatrick, Belvil Ryan, George Giddens and wife (Sydney Cowell), Florence Cowell, Margaret Young, and Anne Goodall.
Oct. 19, 1863, "Pocahontas" was revived, and the farce "My Preserver " was acted for the first time in America, cast as follows :
Philips Mr. Evans
Enoch Malable . . . J. H. Stoddart
Dolly Mrs. Frank Rea
Mrs. Banter .... Miss Harris Miss Banter .... Miss Carman
Estelle Fitzwater . . Mrs. John Sloan Mary Walker (first appearance here)
Mrs. Sedley Brown
Wm. Bury G. H. Clarke
Dr. Pulford .... Thos. Owens Bilberry Geo. Jamison
Nov. I, "Miles O'Reilly," a local absurdity, by Chas. Walcot, Jr., was acted for the first time. On Nov. 9 Byron's burlesque, " The Motto, I Am All There," was acted for the first time in America. It was cast thus :
148 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1864
Henri Lagadere . Duke Gonzagues . Duke de Nevers . Elderly Gypsy Party Carricicfergus
Mrs. John Wood
. G. H. Clarke
N. C. Lapaugh
. . Frank Rea
Miss Harris
Regent Jennie Walters
jEsop C. T. Parsloe Jr.
Blanche .... Mrs. Sedley Brown
Pepita Mrs. Frank Rea
Princess Wm. Davidge
On the same night Geo. Jamison's one act comedietta, " There Is No Such Word As Fail," was acted. Geo. Jamison played the Irishman, Arthur Fitzheron. After a long absence, Lotty Hough appeared Nov. 30, as Mehitable Ann in "The Yankee Legacy." Dec. 7, 1863, " As You Sow, So You Reap" was acted for the first appearance of John Dyott. Dec. 28 "Camilla's Husband" was played for the first time in America, and the cast was as follows :
Sir Philip Hailstone . . Geo. Jamison Captain Shrimpton . . G. H. Clarke Maurice Warner (his first
appearance) . . . J. K. Mortimer Lady Camilla Hailstone, Mrs. John Wood Miss Placida Poyntz . . Mrs. Howard
Chas. Mathew's farce, "A Bull in a China Shop," was given for the first time in America Jan. 11, 1864, and with this cast :
Lady Roseville Major Lumley . Hyacinth Jonquil Dogbrier . , Sloeberry . . Red Judy . .
. Jennie de Lacey . N. C. Lapaugh . . .Geo. Becks Wm. Davidge, Sr. . Jennie Walters . . Miss Harris
Mr. Bagshot . . . J. K. Mortimer Bellamy Brownsjohn . J. H. Stoddart Emily Tipthorpe . . Mrs. John Sloan Lucy Tipthorpe . . Jennie de Lacey Arabella Fitzkensington Miss Harris
Mr. Tipthorpe . . Wm. Davidge, Sr.
Mr. Flitter George Becks
Mr. Piper T. Owens
Susan Jennie Walters
Mrs. John Wood appeared the same evening as Cousin Cherry in the farce of that name. Jan. 18 Frank Drew made his reappearance in this city in Byron's burlesque, " Mazeppa," acting the title r61e, while Mrs. John Wood played Olinska. Feb. 8 Byron's burlesque " 111 Treated II Trovatore " was seen for the first time in America, with this cast :
Manrico Mrs. John Wood
Azucena Frank Drew
Count di Luna . . Wm. Davidge, Sr. Ferrando . . . . N. C. Lapaugh
The Kinchin . . C. T. Parsloe, Jr.
Ruiz Mr. Walton
Leonora .... Mrs. Sedley Brown Inez Miss Harris
Henrietta Irving made her first appearance on this occasion, acting the Duchess De Chartres in "The Follies of a Night; " Feb. 15 the farce " A Curious Case " and " The Pride of the Market " were acted. Feb. 24, for the benefit of the U. S. Sanitary commission, " The Pride of the Market " and " 111 Treated II Trovatore " were repeated.
" Taming a Butterfly " was acted for the first time on any stage Feb. 25. It was an adaptation from the French, by Aug. Daly and Frank Wood. It was cast as follows :
i864ll
MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC
149
|
Constance . |
. . Henrietta Irving |
|
Finette . . |
. Mrs. Sedley Brown |
|
Elodie . . |
. . Jennie Walters |
|
Angelique . |
. . Amelia Harris |
|
Mignonne . |
. . Fanny Prestige |
Beau Beau-jolais . . . Frank Drew
Dandrey J. K. Mortimer
Riverol G. H. Clarke
Morlac J. H. Stoddart
Polydore .... Wm. Davidge, Sr. Jacmthe Mrs. John Wood
"Leap Year," was given March 21. "Our Wife" was produced April II. J. Maddison Morton was the author. The cast was :
Rosine (first appearance Count de Brissac . . J. K. Mortimer
in New York) . Mrs. E. C. Winter Marquis de Ligny . . G. H. Clarke
Mariette . . . Mrs. Sedley Brown Pomaret J. H. Stoddart
Mrs. Winter was the wife of William Winter, the dramatic editor of The New York Tribune. " Loyalina, or Brigadier General For- tunio and His Seven Gifted Servants," dramatized by A. Oakey Hall, was seen for the first time here April 1 1 and had this cast :
Princess Vindicta . . . Miss Harris
Florida Mrs. Young
Lightfoot ... C. T. Parsloe, Jr.
Strongback Mr. Neel
Boisterer . . . Harold Forsburg
Gourmand Mr. Boys
Sharpshooter .... Mr. Edwards 'Fineear Mr. Hill
Ex-Alderman Gotham Thomas Owens Loyalina and Fortunio Mrs. John Wood Emperor Shoddy . Wm. Davidge, Sr. Princess Violante (first appear- ance here) . . Mrs. G. F. Browne
Pertina Mrs. Grener
Flirtina Jennie Walters
Fairy Mrs. Sedley Brown
King Alwayryle . . . Frank Drew
April 23, 1864, being the three hundredth anniversary of the birth of Shakespeare, the occasion was duly celebrated at all the theatres. The foundation stone of the Central Park statue in honor of Shake- speare was laid by James H. Hackett, appropriate addresses being delivered by Judge Charles P. Daly, Mayor Gunther, William Wheatley, and others. Mrs. Sedley Brown's benefit (this lady is now known as Mrs. Sol Smith) took place May 11. May 23 " Paul's Return," Watts Phillips' play, was given for the first time in America with this cast :
Paul Goldsworthy . . Charles Barron Richard Goldsworthy George Jamison Beatrice Goldsworthy Henrietta Irving Blanche Wilton . Mrs. Sedley Brown Mrs. Clampit . . . Isabella Preston Mrs. Geoflfrey Goldsworthy
Miss Walters
Geoffirey T. Owens
Abel Honeydew . . . J. H. Stoddart Howard Flintskin .... Mr. Berry
Herbert G. H. Clarke
Beeswing Mr. Bruciani
Zenobia Mrs. Vining
" Aladdin " was revived June 6, and ran until the season closed July 2. Mrs. John Wood played the title role ; William Davidge was the magician ; J. H. Stoddart, the Widow ; and Miss Walters, the Princess. Annetta Galetti, danseuse, and Mons. Tophoff were added to the spectacle June 13.
150 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1864
A summer season commenced July 4, with the following English opera company : Mme. Comte-Borchard, Louisa Myers, Mrs. M. E. Burroughs, S. C. Campbell, Walter Birch, J. W. Neil, William Castle, Warren White, and J. Clark. Antony Reiff was the conductor. " Maritana" was the opening opera, followed by " Fra Diavolo," " The Bohemian Girl," and July 27 " Rose of Castile," for the first time given in its entirety, the following being the original cast in this country :
Elvira . . . Mme. Comte-Borchard Don Florio (his first appear- ance in opera) . . . W. H. Leak Donna Cormon . . . Louisa Myers Beatrice . . . Mrs. M. E. Burroughs
Manuel Wm. Castle
Don Pedro . . . . S. C. Campbell Don Fallust .... Walter Birch Pablo J. Clark
The season terminated July 30, 1864.
The season 1864- 5 commenced Sept. 5, with the following com- pany: J. K. Mortimer, J. H. Stoddart, W. Holston, Edward Lamb, C. T. Parsloe, Jr., T. B. Berry, A. Odell, Wm. Davidge, B. T. Ring- gold, C. H. Rockwell, Thomas J. Hind, Peck, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert, Mrs. John Wood, Eliza Newton, Henrietta Irving, Amelia Harris, Louisa Myers, E. Couran, Gorilla Young, and Gilmer. Craven's drama, " Miriam's Crime," was the opening play, cast thus :
Bernard B. T. Ringgold
Biles (first appearance
in America) .... W. Holston Miriam Henrietta Irving
Mrs. Raby Amelia Harris
Huffin T. J. Hind
Scumley J. H. Stoddart
" A Comical Countess" was the afterpiece, with this cast :
Chevalier de Vilbrac J. K. Mortimer I Countess L'Espalier . Mrs. John Wood Baron De Bergonce . . J. H. Stoddart |
Sept. 12, " Jenny Lind at Last," followed Sept. 19 with " Finesse," a comedy written by the Countess of Giffard, better known as Lady Duflferin, granddaughter of Richard Brinsley Sheridan. The cast was :
Baroness (her first appearance
in New York) . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Laura Brandon . . Miss E. Couran Captain Mortimer . . T. B. Berry Baron J. H. Stoddart
Dr. Bertrant . . . . J. H. Selwyn John Poppleton . . . Edw. Lamb
Jules B. T. Ringgold
St. Clair T. J. Hind
Fillippi C. H. Rockwell
"Martin Chuzzlewit," a dramatization by Stephen Fiske from Dickens' novel, was given for the first time in America Sept. 26. The cast was as follows :
i86s:
MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC
151
Old Martin Chuzzlewit
Wm. Davidge, Sr. Young Martin Chuzzlewit
B. T. Ringgold Jonas Chuzzlewit . . Humphrey Bland Anthony Chuzzlewit . . . Mr. Peck George Chuzzlewit . . C. P. Ashley Montague Tigg . . J. K. Mortimer Master Bailey . . . Mrs. John Wood Mrs. Ned Chuzzlewit Mrs. R. Adams Sairey Gamp . . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert John Westlock . . C. H. Rockwell Augustus Mobble . . J. H. Selwyn Pecksniff .... J. H. Stoddart
Oct 31 Eliza Newton made her first appearance in America, as Helen in the comedietta of " Marguerite's Colors." Nov. 2 the opera " The Rose of Castile," and " Middy Ashore," were given. Nov. 8 " Time Works Wonders " was acted for the first time in this theatre. The cast was :
Tom Pinch . Chivy Slyme Mark Tapley Spottletoe . Gandere . . Jenkins . . Mary Graham Mercy . . Charity . . Ruth Pinch . Mrs. Lupin . Mrs. Spottletoe Mrs. Todgers Betsy Prig .
. T. J. Hind
T. B. Berry
E. Lamb
. Mr. Gillett
. C. Nelson
. Mr. Otis
Miss E. Couran
Henrietta Irving
Amelia Harris
Miss Hendricks
. Gorilla Young
. Miss Elliott
Miss Mowbray
C. T. Parsloe, Jr.
Florentine . Bessy Tulip Chicken . . Miss Tucker Goldthumb . Bantam . . Clive t. . .
. Henrietta Irving . . Eliza Newton . . Louisa Myers Mrs. G. H. Gilbert . J. H. Stoddart . . . E. Lamb . . . Mr. Berry
Jugby .... Mrs. Goldthumb . Sir Gilbert Norman Clarence Norman . Felix Goldthumb . Professor Truffles .
C. T. Parsloe, Jr. Amelia Harris . Thomas G. Hind . B. T. Ringgold . J. K. Mortimer Wm. Davidge, Sr.
"Court Cards" was acted, for the first time here, Nov. 15, and the cast was the following :
Dowager Duchess of Altenfels
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Princess Amelia . . Henrietta Irving Herminie von Waldeck Eliza Newton
"Milky White," a acted Nov. 21.
Prince Max . . . Baron von Babbelberg Conrad von Rosenthal
Mr. Ringgold Mr. Stoddart Mr. Mortimer
two-act drama, by H. T. Craven, was first
Daniel White . Dicky Dugs Archibald Good
. . W. Holston
C. T. Parsloe, Jr.
. . T. B. Berry
Mrs. Sadrip Anne White
Mrs.
G. H. Gilbert Louisa Myers
Mrs. John Wood appeared Nov. 28, as the Marquis St. George in the comedietta, by John Sefton, entitled " St. George and the Dragon." Dec. 12 "The Streets of New York" was revived, and ran until April i, 1865. April 3 a benefit was tendered to Mrs. John Wood, when she appeared as Lady Gay Spanker in "London Assurance." April 7 " The Honeymoon " was acted for the benefit of J. H. Selwyn. Chas. H. Morton made his debut as Duke Aranza. The theatre was closed from April 1 5 to April 26, in consequence of the assassination of President Lincoln. It reopened April 26, with the spectacular extravaganza, " The Sleeping Beauty in the Wood," with the following cast :
152 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [ises
Thomas, King of Noland, Harry Pearson
Princess Isabelle Factotum . . Teetotum . . Larry O'Log Colin Clump Queen Serena . Fairy Antidota Dewdrop . .
Mrs. John Wood Wm. Davidge, Sr. C. T. Parsloe, Jr. . . £. Lamb . . E. Gillett Miss Mowbray . Corilla Young Miss Hendricks
Lady Abigail Gossamer . Eleganta Rosebud . . Philamel Choramusica Baneful . . Prince Perfect
Louisa Myers
Miss Elliott
Louisa Miller
. Miss Lord
Miss Busteed
Annie Wood
Amelia Harris
Eliza Newton
Lucia Deane, a young lady from Philadelphia, made her first appearance on the stage May 22, acting Kate O'Brien in " Perfec- tion." The theatre was closed June 20, and reopened June 22, with a revival of " Jessie Brown," cast as follows :
Nana Sahib . . . . C. H. Morton Randal McGregor . J. K. Mortimer Geordie (his first appearance)
G. W. Garrison Rev. David Blount . . J. H. Stoddart Sweeny H. Pearson
Cassidy . . . Achmet . . . Jessie Brown . Amy Campbell Alice . . . . Mary . . . .
E. Lamb
T. B. Berry
Eliza Newton
Lucia Deane
Louisa Myers
Miss Hendricks
" Jessie Brown '' ran until the close of the season, July 8, and the house remained dark for the summer months.
Mrs. John Wood commenced the third and last season of her management Sept. 14, 1865, with the following company: J. K. Mor- timer, J. H. Stoddart, James Lewis, G. W. Garrison, Harry Pearson, C. H. Morton, T. J. Hind, C. H. Rockwell, J. Blake, E. Gillett, G. F. Kenway, and Mr. Peck, Mrs. John Wood, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert, Kate Newton, Eliza Newton, Louisa Myers, Amelia Harris, Lucia Deane, Emma Hendricks, Lee, Warren, Sinclair, Fox, and Smith. John H. Selwyn was stage manager; Thomas Baker, musical conductor; James Hayes, scenic artist. "The Captain of the Watch " and the burlesque " Pocahontas," was the initial programme, with Mrs. John Wood as Pocahontas, Eliza Newton as Captain John Smith, Harry Pearson as Powhattan, and Charles H. Morton as Mynheer Rolff. James M. Lewis made his first appearance in this city Sept. 18, as John Strong, in " Your Life 's in Danger." " London Assurance " was seen Sept. 25. Mrs. John Wood acted Lady Gay, and James Lewis, Dolly Spanker. Lucy Rushton made her Ameri- can debut Oct. 2, in a drama called " Lolah," cast as follows :
Capt. Sternhold . . . . C. Morton
Rattlin E. Gillett
Splicer J. S. Brown
Martin J. Peck
Peter Pugnashus . . . . Jas. Lewis Miss Craven .... Lucy Rushton
Lucy Miss M. Phelps
Pololosko T. J. Hind
Oranko G. F. Kenway
Chiakee . . . Lieut. Osmond Mrs. Somerton Adele Craven . Lord Ravenscore Newell Bertam Godfrey Chattenbuck James . . . . \ .
... J. Blake
G. F. Fawcett
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
. . Kate Newton
. . Chas. Morton
. C. H. Rockwell
G. W. Garrison
. . A. Odell
iseen
MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC
153
It was a very bad play, and it was found advisable to change the bill, Oct. 9, to " As You Like It," when Miss Rushton played Rosalind, with C. Kemble Mason as Jaques. " The Streets of New York " was revived Oct. 12, with J. H. Stoddart as Adam Fairweather; T. J. Hind as Gideon ; J. K. Mortimer as Badger ; G. W. Garrison, Paul; C. H. Rockwell, Mark Livingston; Harry Pearson, Puffy; C. H. Morton, Dan ; James H. Budworth (his first appearance in New York in nine years), Bob; and Amelia Harris as Mrs. Puffy. Nov. 13 "The Sleeping Beauty" was revived, and the cast was as follows : Thomas, Chas. Peters ; Queen Serena, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert ; Baron, C. Morton; Nurse, Miss Sinclair; Fairy Baneful, Amelia Harris ; Princess Is-a-Belle, Mrs. John Wood ; Lady Aurora, Louisa Myers, and Larry O'Log, James Lewis. Mile. Augusta executed several dances.
The first week in December " Monte Cristo " was acted with this
cast:
Edmond D antes . Andrea Benedetto M. De Boville Danglars Villefort . . Fernand . . Caderouse .
E. L. Davenport . J. H. Selwyn C. H. Rockwell . C. H. Morton . . T. J. Hind G. W. Garrison . . Jas. Lewis
Abbd Faria J. H. Stoddart
Morell Mr. Scott
Governor Mr. Stanley
Albert Louisa Myers
Mercedes Kate Newton
Haydee Eliza Newton
Giulietta Bronner and Elise Scott led the ballet, assisted by Cardella, Leon, and W. Conrad. Jan. 15, 1866, E. L. Davenport appeared as St. Marc, with J. B. Studley as Gismondo, and Kate Newton as Dianora. Mr. Davenport pjayed Sir Giles Overreach in " A New Way to Pay Old Debts," Jan. 25. "London Assurance " was presented Jan. 29, for the reappearance of Mrs. John Wood, after an absence of two months. It had this cast :
Sir Harcourt . Max Harkaway Chas. Courtley . Dazzle . . . Lady Gay . .
J. H. Stoddart
. . T. J. Hind
G. W. Garrison
E. L. Davenport
Mrs. John Wood
Grace Harkaway . . . Eliza Newton Dolly Spanker .... James Lewis Mark Meddle . . . . C. H. Morton
Cool C. H. Rockwell
Pert Amelia Harris
In consequence of severe indisposition, Mr. Davenport was unable to appear for several nights.
Feb. 5, " Who Killed Cock Robin .' " was acted for the first time in America, with " Black Eyed Susan." In the comedy E. L. Daven- port played Jack Raggett, and Mrs. John Wood, Miss Satanella Tinkle ; E. L. Davenport played William and sang " A Yankee Ship and a Yankee Crew," and " Columbia the Pride of the Ocean," in the drama. Louisa Myers enacted Blue Peter and sang the ballad " Black Eyed Susan." Mrs. John Wood played Dolly Mayflower. Feb. 26, Geo. Fawcett Rowe first appeared in America, and played Sir Charles Coldstream, in " Used Up," and Clorinda, in the burlesque
154 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dses
of " Cinderella e la Comare," Mrs. John Wood acting Cinderella. March 12 "Doing for the Best," by Lacy, was acted for the first time in America. Mr. Rowe was the Dick Stubbs ; Lewis, Bill Hawkins ; Mrs. Gilbert, Betsy Stubbs ; Alice Placide, Jane, and Louisa Myers, Emily.
Geo. C. Davenport and Geo. C. Boniface appeared March 16, in " The Married Rake," for Kate Newton's benefit. " The Foundling," by C. H. Morton, was produced for his benefit March 21. Mr. Hols- ton, of Wallack's Theatre, played Biles, in " Miriam's Crime," Feb. 23, for Eliza Newton's benefit. March 30, 1866, G. W. Garrison took a benefit, and presented, for the first time in New York, " Woodcock's Little Game," with Garrison as Mr. Woodcock, Amelia Harris, Mrs. Carver; H. L. Hinton, David; C. H. Morton, Adol- phus Swansdown ; Louisa Myers, Mrs. Woodcock, and Rockwell, Christopher Larkins. The burlesque " Cinderella " was also given. April 2, " The Three Guardsmen, or the Queen, the Cardinal, and the Adventurer," was produced with this cast :
Anne of Austria, Mme. Methua Scheller Constance .... Mrs. John Wood Lady Winter .... Kate Newton D'Artagnan .... G. F. Rowe Athos J. B. Studley
Porthos G. C. Boniface
Aramis C. H. Rockwell
Buckingham . . . . C. H. Morton
Fouchet James Lewis
De Treville .... Thomas J. Leigh
" David Copperfield," dramatized from Dickens by George Fawcett Rowe, was given May 2 1 with this cast :
David Copperfield Betsy Trotwood . Clara Peggotty Wilkins Micawber
. G. W. Garrison Mrs. G. H. Gilbert . . Amelia Harris
Steerforth . . Daniel Peggotty Ham ....
G. F. Rowe Uriah Heap
G. C. Boniface . J. B. Studley . C. H. Morton
J. H. Stoddart
May 28 another dramatization of Dickens by Rowe, entitled " Our Mutual Friend," was seen for the first time in America, and with this cast:
Rokesmith (his first appear- Mrs. Wilfer . .
ance here) . . J. W. Albaugh, Sr. Silas Wegg . .
Lavinia (her first appearance) Reginald Wilfer
Marie Glover Gaffer Hexham
Nicodemus Bofiin . . J. H. Stoddart Mr. Venus . .
Eugene Wrayburn . G. C. Boniface George Sampson
Mortimer Lightgood . C. H. Rockwell Bella Wilfer. .
Bradley Headstone . G. W. Garrison Lizzie Hexham
Rogue Riderhood . . . J. B. Studley Mrs. BofSn . . Charley Hexham . . . Louisa Myers
The last appearance of Mrs. John Wood at this house, and the closing night of her management, was June 30. The occasion was marked by the presentation by A. Oakey Hall, on the part of many admirers, of a splendid gold watch. Mrs. Wood was fairly embedded
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert . . G. F. Rowe . . G. S. Karnes . . C. H. Morton . . . T. J. Hind . . . E. Gillett Mrs. John Wood . . Kate Newton Amelia Harris
1866]
MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC
^55
in bouquets, and the whole occasion was one not easily to be for- gotten and fitly closed this lady's memorable reign at the Olympic Theatre. Mrs. John Wood was a very pretty woman, possessing a fine figure and an attractive face. Her style was excellent in every- thing she attempted. She read well, had a melodious voice, was affecting in pathetic scenes and lively in those of a cheerful character, was a graceful dancer, and, although her voice was not very strong, it was melodious and well cultivated. She possessed the artistic talent which satisfied every demand that could be made by the most rigid stickler for a high degree of merit in a theatrical artist. Mrs. Wood sailed for London June 30, 1866. Her first appearance in America was at the opening of the Boston Theatre, Sept. 1 1, 1854, as Gertrude in " A Loan of a Lover."
Leonard Grover commenced a summer season here July 2 with " Aurora Floyd," which had this cast :
Mrs. Archibald Floyd
Mrs. Humphrey Bland Aurora Floyd .... Emily Jordan Archibald Floyd . . . A. W. Fenno
" The Octoroon " was acted July 7 for the first time at this house. " The Ice Witch," by Buckstone, was produced July 23. Emma and Ada Webb and Mark Smith were specially engaged. " The Ice Witch's" cast was thus:
John Mellish . Capt. Bulstrode Lieut. Walden . Grimstone . .
Frank Lawlor . G. H. Clarke C. H. Rockwell
E. T. Sinclair
Dame Margery . . Mrs. Saunders
Julia Ada Webb
Lady UUa Emma Webb
Elga Miss Bond
Edda Miss Glover
Finna Miss Powers
Druda Kate Newton
Hecia Therese Wood
Preyr Alice Harrison
Norno Georgie Telbin
Solden ,. Miss Browne
Telda Miss Carlysle
Magnus Snora .... Mark Smith
Harold G. H. Clarke
GruthiofE J. M. Ward
Tycho E. T. Sinclair
Sweno J. E. Whiting
Sterno Mr. Burke
Runic J. T. Ward
Edric Mr. Peck
Ice Fiend > Polar Bear )
Luke Mr. Henderson
Thrysa Mr. Mortimer
Frank Foster
The summer season closed Sept. i.
The fall and winter season opened Sept. 3 with Leonard Grover as manager. The company consisted of J. H. Stoddart, Charles Peters, W. Barron, M. C. Daly, T. J. Hind, E. T. Sinclair, Mrs. Saunders, Kate Newton, and others. " Rip Van Winkle " was the opening attraction, with Joseph JeflFerson as Rip Van Winkle. " Our American Cousin " was revived Oct. 4, with Jefferson as Asa Trench- ard and Charles Vandenhoff (his first appearance in America) as Lord Dundreary. " The Cricket on the Hearth " was produced Oct. 17, Jefferson as Caleb Plummer, Vandenhoff as John Perrybingle, and Blanche Gray as Bertha. This was her first appearance here.
156 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1866
" Woodcock's Little Game," Oct. 22, 23, 24, and 27, with " The Spit- fire," Jefferson as Tobias Shortcut. Jefferson terminated his engage- ment Oct. 27, and " Our American Cousin " was revived Oct. 29. Charles Wheatleigh played Asa Trenchard. Boucicault's drama, " The Long Strike," was acted for the first time in America Oct. 30, and with this cast :
Noah Learo3rd . . Charles Wheatleigh Johnny ReiUey (his first appear- ance here) . . . McKee Rankin Gentleman from headquarters
E. T. Sinclair Sir John Fairfield . . . Mr. Thomas
Thorrock
John O'Dick .
James Staley . Richard Radley Mr. Aspinall
Mr. Armitage .
Mr. Brook . .
Mr. Harmon Mr. Strasse Mr. Parshall Wm. Barron Mr. Kenway . T. J. Hind C. H. Burke
Jem Starke . Crankshaw . Moneypenny Mr. Wigley . Mr. Spurrier Slack . . Capt. Wolfe Jack O'Bob . Tom O'Bill . Jane Leaioyd Maggie . . Susan . . Betsy . . .
C. H
J
VandenhofE
J. T. Ward
. H. Stoddart
John Moore
Mr. Preston
Alfred Becks
Mr. Gillett
M. C. Daly
Mr. Peterson
Kate Newton
Georgie Telbin
Alice Harrison
Therese Wood
Nov. 22 Robert Craig's burlesque, " Hamlet, or Wearing of the Black," with Stuart Robson and Amelia Harris as Hamlet and Ophelia ; Nov. 29 James M. Ward appeared in " Handy Andy." " The Bride of Lammermoor " was produced Dec. 10 under the title of "The Master of Ravenswood," with this cast:
Edgar of Ravenswood Sir William Ashton . Capt. Douglas Ashton Hayston of Bucklaw, Captain Craiggelt . . Lucy Ashton ^er first ance here) . . . Caleb Balderstone Lady Ashton . . .
George Jordan
. T. J. Hind
Wm. Barron
C. H. Vandenhoff
Stuart Robson
appear-
. Rose Eytinge
J. H. Stoddart
Caroline Carson
Henry Ashton . . . Therese Wood Bide the Bent . . . . E. T. Sinclair
Norman J. T. Ward
Robert Mr- Kenway
Ramsay J. M. Ward
Murray J. Daly
Melville C. H. Burke
Alice Mrs. Saunders
Mysie Florence Lee
Trouble was anticipated on the appearance of Geo. Jordan, who had, in the earlier days of the war, associated himself in New Or- leans with an organization known as " The Cocktail Guards," which expressed open sympathy with the Rebels ; and for this reason it was feared that his reappearance in New York would be attended with disturbance, and so a force of police was held in attendance ; but the good sense of the people prevailed, and the services of the authorities were not called upon. The drama was handsomely mounted and well acted, but it was played to empty benches. Its failure was attributed to the fact of Jordan joining the Cocktail Guards. He returned to England, but revisited America with Miss Bateman. He died of apoplexy in his dressing-room in London, Eng. He was playing Pygmalion in "Pygmalion and Galatea," Nov. 15, 1873.
1867]
MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC
^S7
The Cocktail Guards, about whom so much has been written, had this list of officers and other members :
Rank
Name
Line
Captain . . 1st Lieutenant 2d Lieutenant 1st Sergeant . 2d Sergeant . 1st Corporal . 2d Corporal . Surgeon . . Quartermaster Vivandiere .
John E. Owens Low Comedy
George Jordan Leading Business
Mark Smith First Old Men
E. Fenelon Utility
A. H. Davenport Juvenile Business
T. B. MacDonough .... Stage Manager
M. W. Leffingwell .... Utility
Dr. G. Collins Utility
W. H. Leighton Utility
Miss Francis Danseuse
Privates. — W. H. Chippendale (treasurer), Oscar F. Amy (scene painter), L. Schoolcraft, L. Sharp, Paul Brillant (dancer), C. H. Morton, Alfred Howell, Frank Paige, Thomas Owens, W. H. Riley, W. A. Thomas, Carlo Patti, T. M. St. Clair, J. Biddies, R. McGuire, W. B. Douglas, J. M. Brucciani, Francis Lance, Harry Hawk, G. H. Wallack, D. F. Grove, Thos. M. Smith, Fred Maeder, T. Davey, John L. Phillips, J. Guerling, also very nearly all the scene shifters, musicians, and small people in the Varieties Theatre, New Orleans, La. During the secession excitement. New Orleans seems to have been infected with the fever, and, in anticipation of a brush with the North, military companies were organized in that city. January 21, 1861, a meeting was held on the stage of John Owens' Varieties Theatre to form a military company for the purpose of taking up arms in the cause of secession. Mark Smith was chief spokesman, W. H. Chippendale was called to the chair, and T. B. MacDonough acted as secretary. After the proper discussion, they proceeded to elect officers, Mr. Smith insisting on a viva voce vote, so that there should be no skulking. The election resulted as stated above.
The theatre was closed for rehearsal Dec. 24, and at a matinee, Dec. 25, " The Huguenot Captain " was first produced, with Charles Barron as Rene de Pardillon, Mr. Stoddart as Sergeant Locust. In the second act Young America, the pupil of Gabriel Ravel, ap- peared as Punchinello. E. de Mondion took a benefit Jan. 8, 1867, and appeared as Hamlet. A season of English opera commenced Jan. 14, with the Caroline Richings company as the stars. " Martha " was given for the first time here in English, and had this cast :
Lady Henrietta . Caroline Richings
Plunkett S.C.Campbell
Nancy Mrs. E. Seguin
Lionel W. Castle
Tristan H. C. Peakes
Sheriff W. Costello
This was followed by "Maritana," " Fra Diavolo," "Don Pas- quale," " La Somnambula," " The Daughter of the Regiment," " The Rose of Castile " and " Linda di Chamounix." For her benefit,
158 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisey
Feb. I, Caroline Richings offered "The Blind Man's Daughter," one act of " Martha," and the Druid scene from " Norma." Peter Rich- ings appeared on this occasion. The season closed Feb. 2.
A season of German opera opened Feb. 4, with the following artists : Mile. Elvira Naddi, Mile. Marie Frederici, Mile. Johann Rotter, Mile. Johannsen, and Herren Joseph Herrmans, Franz Himraer, Wilhelm Formes, Joseph Chandon, William Groschell, John Armand, Alphonse Urch, and Otto Lehman. Their repertory consisted of " William Tell," " Faust," " The Magic Flute," " The Marriage of Figaro," "Martha," "The Merry Wives of Windsor," " Tannhauser," " The Czar and Carpenter," " Der Freischiitz " and " Alessandro Stradella." Feb. 18 the dramatic season was resumed, with a revival of " The Streets of New York," with John K. Morti- mer as Badger. March 18 the Caroline Richings company re- turned for six weeks. Their repertory was : " The Bohemian Girl," " La Somnambula," " The Daughter of the Regiment," " Martha," "Doctor of Alcantara," " Fra Diavolo," "The Rose of Castile," " Linda," " Maritana," " The Crown Diamonds," and "The Enchant- ress." This last opera was given twelve times. W. S. Andrews, formerly of the Winter Garden Theatre, took a benefit April 26. The programme was : " Our American Cousin " and " Jenny Lind."
For John Brougham's benefit, Aug. 30, " The Serious Family " and " Pocahontas," were played. The season closed Aug. 31, and Leonard Grover retired from the management.
Jas. E. Hayes was announced as the new manager, but John A. Duff was in reality the director. The season opened Sept. 9, 1867, with Joseph Jefferson as Rip Van Winkle. Geo. L. Fox was stage manager, and Clifton W. Tayleure business manager. W. Davidge, J. J. Wallace, Harry Wall, Owen Marlowe, T. J. Hind, G. L. Fox, Willie Seymour, Mrs. Edmonds, the Misses McCormack, Alice Harrison, and Bessie Foote were in the opening play. For eight weeks "Rip Van Winkle" attracted crowded houses.
" A Midsummer Night's Dream " was revived Oct. 28, with this cast:
Lysander (his first appearance
in New York) . . . Fred Franks Hermia (first appearance in
New York) . . Mrs. J. J. Wallace Peasblossom (first appearance in
New York) .... Clara Fisher Puck (first appearance in New York)
Master Willie Young Singing Fairy . . . Alice Harrison
Theseus Harry Wall
Demetrius J. J. Wallace
Egeus T. J. Hind
Philostrate E. T. Sinclair
Hippolyta . . . Mrs. C. Edmonds Helena .... Louise Hawthorne
Oberon Fanny Stockton
Titania .... Cornelia JeflFerson
Bottom G. L. Fox
Quince W. Davidge, Sr.
Snug C. K. Fox
Flute Owen Marlowe
Snout Mark Quinlan
Starveling .... J. B. Howland
18683 MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC 159
Dec. 15 Rosa Cooke played Oberon. The play ran until Feb. i, 1868, having been represented one hundred consecutive times. Feb. 3 Maggie Mitchell appeared, supported by James W. Collier.
This house was closed March 9, for rehearsal of " Humpty Dumpty," produced for the first time March 10. It was in seven- teen scenes, and engaged sixty persons. The opening burlesque prologue was written by A. Oakey Hall. In it Alice Harrison per- sonated Burlesque ; Mrs. C. Edmonds, Romance ; and E. T. Sinclair, New Jersey. The principal dancers were Rita Sangalli, Betty Rigl, and M. Baptistan, with the Miles. Schell, Laurent, Lillie Whiting, and Blake and M. Cellini as seconds. M. Jourbon was master of ballet. In the harlequinade, G. L. Fox was Clown, C. Fox, Pan- taloon, Frank Lacey, from the London theatres. Harlequin, and Emily Rigl, Columbine. Incidental to the pantomime, Carrie A. Moore, John Engle, and C. E. Lovett performed a skating act, and several other specialties were introduced.
Mile. Leah, dancer, appeared March 17, and March 31 Little Viola Rand, a child dancer, was seen. The next addition was that of Mr. Goodrich, champion skater. June 6 the one hundredth per- formance took place, and the season terminated. The summer season was commenced June 8, the pantomime still running, and June 15 it was reconstructed. A new ballet was introduced. June 18 Mr. Goodrich broke his arm, and his place was taken for a time by Mr. Swift. A new burlesque opening by A. Oakey Hall was substituted July 6, and July 20 Charles and Annie Austin, Zouave drill performers, appeared. M. Cochon, a tenor singer, appeared Aug. 3, and Louis Zanfretta, a gymnast and pantomimist, Aug. 31.
The summer season closed Sept. 4, and the fall and winter season commenced Sept. 6, " Humpty Dumpty " having reached its one hundred and ninety-eighth performance. Lena Edwin and Irene Gay now joined the company. Oct. 12, 1868, a new ballet corps, including M. Costa, the Miles. Pagani, Letto, Kurtz, the Sisters Negra, Betty Remmelsberg, and others were added. Oct. 26, Millie Sackett took the place of Irene Gay as Romance. The latter lady was afterwards known as Mrs. Fred Maeder.
The following I obtained from Clifton W. Tayleure: "The box office received ^1,406,000, during the run of ' Humpty Dumpty.' 'The Black Crook' was running at Niblo's Garden, and principal dancers were not easily to be found. A quarrel between Vestvali and Sangalli enabled me to secure the latter. Betty and Emily Rigl, who had previously seceded from Niblo's, were also secured. Sangalli received ;^i8o a week. The two Rigls received jointly the same amount. The entire ballet cost, with the extra music, cory- phees, and figurantes, ;^943 a week."
Mr. Tayleure retired from the business management of this house, Jan. 4, 1869, and was succeeded by Dan Symons. A litigation now
l6o A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1869
ensued as to the introduction of a comic railroad effect into one of the scenes of " Humpty Dumpty," which was objected to by Augustin Daly as a violation of his rights, and an injunction was obtained by that gentleman. The affair, however, was compromised by a modification of the scene and the payment of a fee to Mr. Daly.
The pantomime was finally withdrawn May 15, 1869, having been acted four hundred and eighty-three times ; matinees were given every Wednesday and Saturday. The house was closed May 17, for rehearsal of " Hickory Dickory Dock," which was produced May 18, with this cast:
Hickory Dickory Dock and Clown
G. L. Fox Mrs. Ancientry Spratt and Pan- taloon C. K. Fox
Jack of the Bean Stalk and Harle- quin Frank Lacey
Little Red Riding Hood and Col- umbine .... Mile. A. Laurent
The Kiralfy troupe of Hungarian dancers made their American ddbut May 31. There were in this party Imre, Bolossy, Haniola, Emelie and Katie Kiralfy, and others. Haniola was the principal, Emelie and Katie the seconds. Haniola (afterwards the wife of A. L. Parkes) died in this city Dec. 26, 1889. Emelie married a non-professional of this city and retired from the stage. Katie is the wife of Edmund Gerson the amusement agent. " Hickory Dickory Dock " was withdrawn after Sept. 4.
Edmund Falconer, the author and actor, made his American debut May 29, in his own drama, " A Noble Revenge." " The Peep 0' Day " was acted June 2, with the author, Mr. Falconer, as Barney OToole. Mr. Falconer closed June 4. John Brougham appeared June 6, in " O'Donnell's Mission," with Thos. E. Morris, George Clarke, Stuart Robson, A. W. Fenno, J. M. Boyd, H. Bland, Harry Wall, Kate Newton, and Lillie Eldridge in the cast. " Dombey and Son" was done June 9, " David Copperfield " and " Pocahontas" June 10, with Kate Reignolds as the heroine. " Treasure Trove, or Buried Gold," was acted for the first time on any stage June 22, and had this cast:
Allen Pierce .... George Clarke Miss Anne Matchieson Lillie Eldridge Vice President Board of Share- holders Chas. Foster
Mrs. Matchieson . . . Amelia Harris Hon. Mrs. Solicitous Louisa Eldridge Mrs. Harpaway . . Mrs. Mark Smith
Larry Barnes Hastings Mr. Suydam Mr. Jenkins Mr. Lindell Miles McCarthy
. Stuart Robson W. H. Whalley . . Mr. Fenno Belvil Ryan . . C. J. Fyffe . J. M. Ward
Thomas B. de Walden's " British Neutrality " was first seen here July I, and had this cast:
1869]
MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC
161
Admiral Farragut . . Charles Foster
Commandant of Fortress Monroe
C. J. FyfEe
Reuben Graydon (his first appear- ance here) . Chas. R. Thorne, Jr.
Vernon Birkwood (first appear- ance here) . . . Owen Marlowe
Nance Crane (her first appearance in New York) . . . Mrs. Williams
Pat Donnely Jack Hawser . Pierre Boncour John Benjamin Rose Graydon
. J. M. Ward Harry S. Murdoch . W. H. Bland . A. W. Fenno . Kate Newton
This play was taken from T. P. Cooke's prize drama, " True to the Core."
July 8 a band of Arabs, called the Beni Zoug Zoug, appeared in conjunction with the dramatic company; July 15 a Japanese com- pany appeared ; July 22 John Brougham was seen in " Columbus Re- constructed," assisted by Emily Thorne. " The Post Boy " was also played. " Dombey and Son " was seen Aug. 19. The cast was :
Capt. Cuttle Brougham Edith ...
Susan Nipper .... Emily Thorne Joe Bagstock 7
Carker H. S. Murdoch Jack Bunsby j
Dombey Chas. Foster
Mrs Kate Meek W. E. Sheridan
" Uncle Tom's Cabin " was produced Sept. 6, with this cast :
Topsy . . Aunt Ophelia Deacon Perry Geo. Harris Skeggs . . Uncle Tom
Mrs. G. C. Howard
Mrs. T. J. Hind
Geo. L. Fox
J. K. Mortimer
. E. T. Sinclair
. Asa Cushman
Eliza Ida Vernon
Eva Minnie Jackson
Lawyer Marks . . . . C. K. Fox Simon Legree .... J. B. Studley St. Clair Geo. Becks
Minnie Jackson was Mrs. Asa Cushman. This was succeeded Oct. 4 by " The Streets of New York," with John K. Mortimer and Eliza Newton as Badger and Alida Bloodgood ; J. B. Studley played Capt. Fairweather. Harry Hotto made his first appearance as Mr. Pufiy. This play had a run of five weeks and was followed, Nov. 8, for the first time in America, by F. W. Robinson's " Poor Hu- manity." The cast was :
Rev. Theobald Gifford J. Horace Essenden . . H.
Augusta GifEord George Carr Paul Essenden Dr. Rivers . Pottleton . Mr. Bates . Roger Hodge
K. Mortimer Cunningham
Florence Noble
. J. B. Studley
Geo. Becks
J. M. Charles
G. F. Ketchum
. . S. Wright
Mr. Bolton
Mrs. Wiseby .... W. Holston
Nella Carr Eliza Newton
Laura Gifford .... Lily Vining
Sallie Minnie Jackson
Mrs. Carr . . . Miss F. Andrews
Mary Miss E. Germaine
Banks' Widow .... Miss Fenton Mrs. Mudgeson . . Mrs. E. Wright
" Under the Gaslight " was presented Dec. 6, with J. K. Mortimer as Snorkey, and Chas. T. Parsloe, Jr., as Bermudas. There were also in the cast: J. B. Studley, M. C. Daly, George Becks, Harry Cunning- ham, J. M. Charles, Asa Cushman, Ketchum, Hotto, Conolly, Wright, Bolton, Masters Dan and Hearne, Ida Vernon, Lily Vining, Marie
1 62 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE :i87o
Longmore, Peach Blossom (her first appearance here), Florence Noble, M. Andrews, S. Germaine, and Mrs. E. Wright.
Geo. L. Fox returned Jan. 3, 1870, as Ferguson Trotter, in " The Writing on the Wall." Harry C. Ryner first appeared on this occasion, acting Richard Oliver. Jan. 17, G. L. Fox was seen as Paul Pry and Jacques Strop, in "Robert Macaire;" Jan. 31, as Aminadab Sleek, in " The Serious Family," and Tobias Shortcut, in " The Spitfire." T. C. de Leon's burlesque of " Hamlet," was seen Feb. 14:
Hamlet G. L. Fox Marcellus G. A. Beane
Claudius Ben Maginley Bernardo Laura Queen
Polonius . . . Lester Cavendish Ghost Mrs. E. Wright
Horatio .... Blanche Bradshaw First Actor . . . . H. Cunningham
Laertes Marie Longmore Second Actor S. Wright
Rosencrantz ... J. M. Charles Actress Asa Cushman
Guildenstern . . . G. F. Ketchum Gravedigger .... Julia Queen
Osric Fanny Queen Gertrude .... Mrs. Bradshaw
Priest Mr. ConoUy Ophelia Belle Howitt
This was the first appearance at this theatre of Ben Maginley, Lester Cavendish, Blanche Bradshaw, Fanny, Laura, and Julia Queen, and Belle Howitt. The burlesque held the boards for several weeks, and was followed, April 18, by " Macbeth," a travesty, with all of Locke's original music.
Duncan J. M. Charles Lady Macbeth . . . Marie Longmore
Malcolm Julia Queen Gentlewoman . . . Sarah Germaine
Macbeth G. L. Fox Seward W. Eunice
Banquo . . . . , . H. Cunningham Seyton Lulu Prior
Macduff C. K. Fox Physician J. L. Lewis
Rosse Fanny Queen First Witch . . . G. F. Ketchum
Monteith Miss Newton Second Witch .... Mrs. Wright
Angus Miss Lawson First OfBcer . . . . G. A. Beane
Fleance Master Topack Second Officer .... Mr. Knight
First Singing Witch . . Laura Queen Hecate Herr Staudt
Second Singing Witch Mme. Pozzone
The house closed May 7, and reopened May 16, with One With the Golden Wig," which had this cast :
The Fair
Princess Ba-be-bi-bo-bu . H. T. Allen Prince Huckaback . . M. W. Fiske Marquis Very-so-so . . M. B. Snyder Count Prettilittleman . Jenny Gilmer Hon. Sambofromsingsing, J. H. Jones Queen Titum-tilly-silly . Hattie O'Neil Fairy Lucidora . . Pauline Hayden Graceful .... Mrs. Jas. A. Gates
Leander . Callposh . Drinkhard Eatquick Paynone . Graball . Sugarall . Honeydew
J. H. Chatterton . J. T. Walters W. R. Hayden . H. H. Pratt Mr. Renard . . P. Berger . Ida D'Soyer Miss H. Sloan
In addition to a ballet, there appeared A. M. (" Tony ") Hernandez, Leon Brothers, and Prof. M. O'Reardon, the tumbleronicon performer. June 6 G. W. Jester, ventriloquist, made his bow.
iSyi]
MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC
163
Stephen Miss Germaine
Valet Miss Watson
Little Corporal . . . Mile. D'Soyer Marchioness De Berkenfeldt
Mrs. J. J. Prior Duchess de Grandtete
Mrs. W. R. Hayden
" The Daughter of the Regiment, or the Eight Hundred Fathers," was produced June 13, with this cast :
Josephine . . . Mrs. Jas. A. Gates Sergeant Scalade ... H. T. Allen
Guillot J. H. Chatterton
Purapemickle . . . . M. W. Fiske Duke de GrandtSte . . H. H. Pratt
Bernard W. R. Hayden
Pierre J. H. Jones
£tienne P. Berger
Incidental to this was a comic ballet, in which Willie Edouin gave an imitation of Mile. Bonfanti, and H. H. Pratt of Sig. Novissimo, while the Hernandez troupe gave their " Boston Peace Jubilee " acts.
" The Field of the Cloth of Gold " was given June 20, with Alice Gates as Earl Darnley, Georgie Dickson, (her first appearance) as Lady Constance, Lulu Prior as Anne Boleyn, and J. Dunn (his first appearance) as Henry VIII. July 2 the season terminated.
The pantomime, "Wee Willie Winkle," was produced Oct. 5, 1870, and ran until Feb. 6, 1871, when Schonberg and T. B. de Walden's burlesque " G. L. Richelieu," was produced for the first time, with G. L. Fox as G. L. Armand Des Etats Unis (Riche- lieu) ; Ada Harland as Secretary of Hymen (De Mauprat) ; Lillie Eldridge as Secretary of Venus (Julie de Mortimer) ; Jennie Yeamans as Secretary of Momus (Frangois) ; Edward Coleman as Secretary of Hades (Baradas).
Daly's new play, "Horizon," was produced March 21, 1871. It had this cast:
Sundown Rowse . . . . G. L. Fox John Loder .... J. K. Mortimer
Rocks O. B. Collins
Mackenzie . . . . J. L. de Bonay Salaeratus Bill . . . . F. S. Wilbur Wannamucka . . . C. Wheatleigh
Wahcotah W. H. Pope
Alleyn Van Dorp . . . Hart Conway Heathen Chinee . . . Harry Pratt The Unattached . . H. R. Teesdale
Sergt. Crocker . . . . F. Chapman
Meddie Agnes Ethel
Big Spider Geo. Sands
Coke Ballen .... Chas. Warwick Wolf Van Dorp . . . J. B. Studley
Uncle Billy Geo. Beane
Judge Scott .... E. T. Sinclair
Guide Geo. Atkins
Ceephus John Pendy
There were also in the cast Jennie Yeamans, Mrs. Ed. S. Tarr, Mrs. J. J. Prior, Mrs. Annie Yeamans, and Lulu Prior.
After being in the courts for many years, the ligitation as to the ownership of this theatre was settled at this time. John Duff was sued by the heirs of Mr. Trimble, for the repossession of the Olympic Theatre property, valued at ;^400,ooo. It was argued by the claimants that Mr. Duff never bought the property, but that it was placed in his hands to pay certain claims due certain creditors of Mr. Trimble, while Mr. Duff as firmly protested that the property was his. This led to a litigation, and, the case being tried in this
164 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1873
city, Mr. Duff was beaten. He carried the case to the Court of Appeals. This court also decided in favor of the Trimbles. This ended the case, and gave the property to the claimants. By the will of Mr. Trimble, the entire property went to his four daughters. " Jack Sheppard " was produced on Feb. 15 : Geo. L. Fox as Owen Wood; John K. Mortimer, Darrell; J. B. Studley, Sir Rowland; Harry Pearson, Blueskin; Ada Harland, Jack; and Jennie Yeamans, Stimkid. Lucille Western appeared June 5, in " East Lynne," sup- ported by James A. Heme and Frank Mordaunt. "The Child Stealer " was seen June 19. Miss Western narrowly escaped being one of the great actresses of her generation, but escape it she did. Her emotional powers, her occasional characterizations were the offspring of intuition. The public saw in her a woman of great natural powers, lacking only great cultivation ; and yet it is possible that cultivation would have spoiled her altogether.
Rose and Harry Watkins appeared here June 26 in " Kathleen Mavourneen." A matinde performance was given June 29 for the benefit of the widow and family of Dan Symons. The programme was, "Delicate Ground," "Lend Me Five Shillings," and "State Secrets." Among the artists who appeared were, Joseph Jefferson, Mrs. James A. Oates, Blanche de Bar, Grace Rawlinson, Nellie Young, Mrs. Annie Yeamans, Neil Warner, Hart Conway, H. L. Bascomb, Frank Mordaunt, Geo. L. Fox, H. A. Weaver, Sr., Geo. A. Beane, and E. T. Sinclair.
" Under Two Flags, or Trodden Down," by Harry Watkins, was given July 3. Mrs. Watkins took a benefit July 14, when " It Takes Two to Quarrel " and " The Pioneer Patriot " were acted. Johnny Allen appeared July 17 in " Schneider, or Dot House Von der Rhine." He continued until Aug. 12, when the season closed.
" Humpty Dumpty " was revived Aug. 31 and was withdrawn June II, 1872, having been performed three hundred and thirty-three times. G. L. Fox, on that night, for his benefit and last night of the season, performed the title r61e for the one thousand ~ and first time. The Marie Aimee Opera Bouffe company appeared here Oct. 4. Nov. 1 1 the Lydia Thompson company commenced, and closed Dec. 7. Samuel Colville and Alex. Henderson were now the mana- gers of this house, but they retired Feb. 8, 1873. " Humpty Dumpty " was revived Feb. 17, and was withdrawn June 7, after one hundred and twenty-seven performances. This was followed by the Coleman Sisters, Clara and Louise, in a drama called " Driven from Home."
The next season commenced August 31, with the Lydia Thomp- son company in " Mephisto and the Four Sensations." John Duff was the sole lessee and manager, George Tyler, acting manager, J. J. McCloskey, stage manager. Sept. i M. Collodion, French cari- caturist, made his American d^but. He closed on Sept. 6. " Sinbad the Sailor " was revived Sept. 8, and during the performance Lydia
1873] MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC 165
Thompson and Henry Taylor performed, for the first time in this city, a musical duet and dance entitled " The Dancing Quakers." Sept. 22, the first act of " Aladdin," preceded by " Sinbad." " Madame Angot's Child," an English version of " La Fille de Madame Angot," for the first time in America, Sept. 29, by Mrs. James A. Oates and her company. It was withdrawn after the performance of Oct. 11. "The Grand Duchess" was presented Oct. 13. " Mons. Choufleuri," preceded by " An Alarming Sacrifice," was seen Oct. 20, and ran until Friday, when on that and the following evening " Mons. Chou- fleuri " and the third act of " Mme. Angot's Child " were given, and the Oates company closed. Robert McWade commenced Oct. 27 in his own version of " Rip Van Winkle," which ran until Nov. 24, when Edwin Adams appeared in " Enoch Arden." Dec. 3 " The Marble Heart " was acted and ran until Dec. 1 1 , when " Richard III." was given, and repeated Dec. 13. "Enoch Arden" was repeated Dec. 12 and at the matinee Dec. 13. "The Dead Heart" was pro- duced Dec. 15, and acted during the week, save on Dec. 19, when " Dreams of Delusion " and " Wild Oats " were given.
Edwin Adams was the original in America of Robert Landry in " The Dead Heart," and of Ivan Khorvitch in " The Serf." This was his last engagement in this city. His last appearance on the stage as an actor was at the California Theatre, San Francisco, May 27, 1876, when he played lago, to the Othello of John E. McCuUough. His last appearance on the stage was in the California Theatre, Feb. 12, 1877, ^t a benefit yielding him about ;?2,700. He was unable to act, but occupied a chair in the centre of the stage. The song of " Auld Lang Syne " was taken up by little Alice Harrison, the com- pany joining in the chorus, when, during the singing, Mrs. Judah — the oldest of San Francisco's actresses, and not then in good health, who was feebly standing with the rest — was led by Barton Hill towards Mr. Adams. The actor arose, embraced and kissed the lady, and, in his fine, old, gallant way, offered her his chair. She declined with a simple movement of the hands, in motherly tenderness pressed him to his seat again, and, taking her place behind him, wept bitterly until the curtain fell. The scene was deeply affecting, and touched the heart more keenly than anything that has ever been seen in the fiction of the drama. After lingering for over three weeks at Phila- delphia, and having for the prior forty-eight hours been unable to take any nourishment whatever, Edwin Adams died Oct. 28, 1877. Mr. Adams was born in Medford, Mass., Feb. 3, 1834. His first appearance on the stage was August 29, 1853, as Stephen in "The Hunchback," at the National Theatre, Boston, Mass.
"Humpty Dumpty" was revived Feb. 17, 1873, and withdrawn June 7, after one hundred and twenty-seven performances. The total number of performances at this theatre was nine hundred and forty-three. It was revived at the Grand Opera House Nov. 25, 1873,
1 66 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE DSys
where it was acted seventy-nine times, and was withdrawn after Feb. 7, 1874. G. L. Fox performed " Humpty-Dumpty " in the Bowery one hundred and eighty-five times, making his total number of per- formances of that character, up to the date last mentioned, one thou- sand two hundred and seven. In all, then, " Humpty Dumpty" was played in New York alone, with Mr. Fox, one thousand two hundred and sixty-eight times.
Dec. 22 the theatre was closed, and on Dec. 23 "Gabriel Grub" was produced, preceded by "An Object of Interest," which gave place on Dec. 29 to " Family Jars." The house was reopened as a variety theatre Jan. 19, 1874, with George H. Tyler as manager, who continued until March 9, when he retired. The next season com- menced Aug. 21, 1874, under the management of John F. Poole. A specialty entertainment was presented. Howard Paul appeared Sept. 20, and during the season some of the best artists in the busi- ness were seen at intervals, including Sol Smith Russell, Nov. 15, in his original characterizations. Mr. Poole retired from the manage- ment July 8, 1876.
William E. Sinn was the next manager. He commenced Aug. 14, 1876, with specialty performances. He surrendered the lease Jan. i, 1877.
Augustin Daly was the next manager. He reopened the theatre Jan. 30, 1877, with "The Big Bonanza." Harry S. Sanderson was business manager. In the company were, Alice Grey, Julia Brutone, Ada Gilraan, Elsie Moore, Miss Post, Charles Leclercq, J. H. Ring, George Parkes, Owen S. Fawcett, Maurice Barrymore, and C. D. Bainbridge. " 'Round the Clock" was given Feb. 12. A. Tomasi's Juvenile English opera company appeared March 5, in "The Fairy and the Cobbler." N. D. Roberts' Pantomime troupe were seen in "Jack and Jill." Charles Almonte was Pantaloon ; Chas. H. Adams, Clown ; Louise Boshell, Columbine and wire walker ; William Eunice, Harlequin ; and Minnie French, Fairy Queen. The Almonte Bros., Frankie Howard, and the French Twin Sisters were among the "specialty" people.
The next manager was Thomas Canary, who opened the house Oct. I, 1877, as a variety theatre. Gus Williams was associated with the management. George H. Tyler was business manager. Billy Emerson assumed the management Jan. 14, 1878. Gus Phillips was business manager. Billy Emerson's California minstrels were the attraction. Gus Phillips, well-known as " Oofty Gooft," became manager Jan. 21, 1878. Emerson's minstrels continued the attrac- tion until Feb. 11. Then came a vaudeville company, after which Texas Jack's company for two weeks commencing Feb. 18. On March 4, the drama, "A Great Encounter, or Heenan and Sayers at Farnborough," was produced. John Dwyer, champion of America, and Joe Goss, champion of England, appeared during the play in a
187911
MRS. JOHN WOOD'S OLYMPIC
167
fistic encounter. On March 11 Jenny Morton, with a company, acted "Idlewild," supported by R. C. Gardner. Charles Foster's play, " Saved at Seven," was done March 18, Imogene week of March 25, in "The Shepherdess of Jura." April i "Uncle Tom's Cabin," was seen, followed April 8 by George C. Boniface, Sen., in " The Soldier's Trust." The house soon afterwards closed, but was reopened Sept. 30, 1878, as a variety theatre, with Martin W. Hanley as manager.
On Dec. 23, Gardner & Hallock, who had been managing for a brief period Niblo's Garden, opened this house, with W. J. Fleming as the acting manager and leading man. The initial performance was "The Brides of Garryowen" ("The Colleen Bawn"), with W. J. Fleming as Danny Mann, supported by Florence Ellis and a full dramatic company. The curtain was rung up, and the play had proceeded but a few minutes, when, as the scene between Hardress Cregan and Danny Mann opened, a young man sprang from one of the stage boxes to the stage, and, walking up to Chas. A. Sted- man (mistaking him for W. J. Fleming), handed him the legal papers of a temporary injunction granted by the Supreme Court at the instance of Dion Boucicault, restraining Fleming from perform- ing the play. Learning his mistake, the young man handed the papers to Fleming, and in the midst of the confusion that followed the curtain was rung down and the audience dismissed.
" The Ticket of Leave Man " was played Dec. 25 and for the week, with Fleming as Bob Brierly and Florence Ellis as May Edwards. " Ingomar " was given Dec. 30, for the week, Fleming as Ingomar, Florence Ellis as Parthenia.
The Count Joannes appeared here Jan. 7, 1879, in " Richard III.," supported by Avonia Fairbanks.
"It's Never Too Late to Mend," was produced Jan. 20, with Geo. D. Chaplin in the cast.
A matinee performance was given March 1 7 for The Herald Irish Relief Fund. " The Ticket of Leave Man " was the bill. Martha Fairfield made her first appearance on any stage as Evadne, April 14, and repeated the performance April 15, 16, 17. "Evadne" had this cast:
Evadne Martha Fairfield
King of Naples . . . J. B. Browne Olivia Jennie Carroll
Ludovico J. B. Studley
Colonna . . Frank A. Tannehill, Sen. Vicentio Louis Barrett
cast:
' The Assommoir " (" Drink ") was produced April 30, with this
Mme. Boche Nina at fifteen Nina at eight
Mrs. Sedley Smith
Laura Thropp
. Belle Wharton
Nina, at four .... Jessie Story Daddy Bazouge . Edward Coleman Gervaise Maud Granger
|
Gouget . . . |
. . Clinton Hall |
|
Poissons . . . |
Frank W. Sanger |
|
Bee Sale . . . |
. . Frank Drew |
|
Bijald .... |
. . John Moore |
|
Lorilleux . . |
. . E. M. Day |
|
Virginie . . . |
. . Emily Rigl |
|
Big Clemence . |
. . Ada Rehan |
|
Mme. Lorilleux |
. . Nina Freith |
1 68 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsso
Corpeau Harry Meredith
Lantier B. T. Ringgold
My Boots Harry Hawke
Bibi C. H. Bradshaw
Pap S. B. Duffield
Pierre John Swinburne
Joseph Chas. Hogan
The play was a failure, and was withdrawn May 17. After the first week, Emily Rigl retired on account of illness, and her r61e was acted by Ada Rehan. " Benighted " was acted July 22, by Isadore Davidson. It was originally called " Grip, or the Moral Bootblack." S. B. Duffield, a member of the company died sud- denly at Jersey City Heights, N. J., May 5, 1879.
Mr. Hofele commenced his management of this house Sept. 8,
1879, with cheap prices, — 50, 35 and 25 cts.
The attraction was Jennie Yeamans, supported by J. W. Summers, in a play called " Mitt," which had this cast : Mitt, Jennie Yeamans ; Alice Malvern, Helen Adell; Mrs. Ashcroft, Mrs. W. G. Jones; Ned Wilton, J. W. Summers; Luke Martin, Edwin Brink, Bob Ashcroft, Walter Fessler. Previous to the drama "The Young Widow" was acted.
" Uncle Tom's Cabin " was acted Oct. 20, with J. B. Studley as Uncle Tom; Jennie Yeamans as Topsy; Mrs. W. G. Jones as Aunt Ophelia.
On Jan. 17, 1880, two performances were given for the relief of the famine suffering Irish. "The Colleen Bawn" was seen, with William B. Cahill as Myles.
The next and last manager this house had was Frank Mayo, who began Jan. 31, 1880, and continued until Saturday evening, April 17,
1880, when the closing performance occurred. It consisted of " Richard III." The cast was :
King Henry . . . . F. Chippendale
Buckingham H. Colton
Tressel Tony Roache
Catesby John Swinburne
RatclifEe W. Richardson
Stanley R. C. White
Lord Mayor Oscar Wolf
Lieut, of the Tower . . . R. Brooks Blunt Joseph Howard
The building was soon after torn down and business houses were erected on its site.
Richmond . . Duke of York . Prince of Wales Duchess of York Richard . . . Oxford . . . Lady Anne . . Queen Elizabeth Norfolk . . .
Frank A. Tannehill Henry Bascombe Genevieve Mills Ray Alexander Frank Mayo . H. White Laura Don Mary Bryer Edwin Mayo
1857] HENRY WOOD'S MARBLE HALL 1 69
HITCHCOCK'S SUMMER GARDEN
A LITTLE place of amusement known as Hitchcock's Summer Garden was situated at 172 New Canal Street, and opened June 5, 1857, with a variety show company consisting of James Fraser, comic singer ; M. Lyons ; T. Burns, Irish vocalist; T.Ellis; W. Hitchcock; Prof. Kennedy, pianist. The admission was six cents, which included refreshments. Celia Morley, vocalist, opened July 2 1 ; Jerry Merrifield, July 30. Eva Brent, soprano vocalist, made her American debut Dec. 13.
PETE MORRIS' VARIETIES
PETE MORRIS' VARIETIES was situated at 210 William Street, at what was formerly known as the Coliseum. It was opened June 27, 1857.
HENRY WOOD'S MARBLE HALL
A FAMOUS Minstrel Hall forty years ago was " Wood's Marble Hall " situated on the west side of Broadway, near Prince Street, Nos. 561 and 563, built of white marble. The entrance was from Broadway. The auditorium had a parquet and two galleries, capable of seating 2,000 persons. The opening occurred Oct. 15, 1857, with the following company: Sylvester Bleecker, stage man- ager; Henry Woods, proprietor; Jack Herrman, Geo. Christy, G. Gardner, Chas. H. Fox, J. Whittaker, Master Eugene, G. W. H. Griffin, C. Keene, L. Meyer, M. Lewis, E. Bowers, Master Gus Howard, and C. Haslam. Geo. Holland, the comedian of Mitchell's Olympic and Wallack's theatres, became a member of this minstrel company, appearing Dec. 21 as Black George in the local farce " My Friend, Black George, from White Plains." He published the following card in the newspapers of the day :
George Holland respectfully informs his friends and the public that in conse- quence of the unfortunate state of the times — which has prevented the managers of what are termed the legitimate theatres from fulfilling their contracts, and thus caused him to be unable to provide those comforts for his family as heretofore — he has made an engagement with Wood & Christy's minstrels, which will not only enable him to support his family as usual, but also enable him, in a short time, to resume specie payments, and settle all his little accounts which have been rendered with so much kindness. He also begs to assure his friends and the public that he will appear before them in the same capacity — in the same or similar pieces — in the line of low comedy — the only difference will be that instead of coloring his face with red paint it will appear black; which, when washed oflf, he hopes they will perceive the same honest countenance he has hitherto maintained.
170 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSss
The company closed the house week of March 15, 1858, and appeared at Brooklyn, as the entrance had to be considerably altered. It reopened March 22. Frank Brower, Charles Fox, James Budworth, and Charley White put in an appearance here May 17. T. D. Rice, Eph. Horn, and E. Bowers were added to the forces Aug. 2. Julia Daly joined the company Oct. 18, and appeared in the protean sketch, " In and Out of Place," in which she gave French, Irish, Dutch, and Yankee delineations. Frank Brower was seen here Dec. 13. Cool White came for the first time Jan. 3, 1859. The house closed Sept. 3, 1859, when the premises were altered to the Merchants and Manufacturers' bank.
The company went to 585 Broadway Sept. 8, for a few nights, then to 444 Broadway, Sept 12. The entrance by way of a long flight of stairs operated to its disadvantage, and the building was soon after taken possession of for the bank. Ths entire structure was torn down in July, 1877.
THE ADELPHI.
THE old medical college situated at the corner of Spring and Crosby streets was turned into a place of amusement and, called The Adelphi, was opened Jan. 4, 1858. " The Wizard of the North " appeared, with Viola, danseuse, and Frazer, vocalist. The admission was 12 cts., which included a refreshment ticket. This place was afterwards devoted to musical entertainments of various kinds.
HOYM'S THEATRE.
AT 199 and 201 Bowery, nearly opposite to Spring Street, was a place of amusement called " Hoym's Theatre," named after its proprietor. Otto Von Hoym. It was opened August 5, 1858. In addition to a ballet corps with Louise Lamoureux, Geo. Smith and Mons. Szollosy as the principals, there was a vaudeville enter- tainment.
Aug. 14 Geo. W. Smith took a benefit, and had a host of volunteers. Sept. 13 the Zavistowski Juvenile Ballet troupe appeared. Mons. Zavistowski was the ballet master, Christine Ludlam (Mrs. Zavistowski) premiere, and Alice and Emeline Zavistowski were the stars. Robert Johnston and T. C. Steers were the next managers, with this company: J. W. Wallack, Jr., Robert Johnston, J. J. Prior, S. H. France, Joseph O. Sefton, Wall, Humphrey Bland, Wright, J. L. Wallace, Jones, M. B. Pike, Wray, Stevens, John Walsh, Ameha Parker, Sallie Partington, Nelse Waldron, and others. The initial play was " Werner," also " Rent Day." James Wallack acted Werner, and Robert Johnston Ulric in
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TONY PASTOR'S OPERA HOUSE
171
the first play, and Amelia Parker was the Rachel Heywood in the latter; Oct. 4, "The Stranger," Wallack as the Stranger, and R. Johnston as Reuben Glenroy in "Town and Country;" Oct. 5, " King of the Commons ; " Oct. 6 " Macbeth " was given.
Macbeth Macduff Malcolm Ross .
. J. W. Wallack . . R. Johnston Humphrey Bland . . M. B. Pike
Lady Macbeth . . . Amelia Parker
Seyton John Sefton
Third Witch . . . . S. H. France Hecate .... Sallie Partington
" Paul Pry " was the afterpiece. Oct. 11" Lucrezia Borgia " was acted, with Amelia Parker as Lucrezia ; also, " The Cross of Gold," Robert Johnston as Austerlitz. J. M. Belmont took a benefit April 25, 1859, when "King Henry IV." was acted by amateurs. The French dramatic company, which had been playing at 585 Broadway, under Fred Widdow's management, came Dec. 26, 1859. This place remained untenanted for a long time, but was reopened by S. C. Camp- bell, June 27, 1864, with a minstrel company. On Jan. 16, 1865, R. M. Hooley became associated with Mr. Campbell in the manage- ment, Hooley's Brooklyn Opera House having been burned (May 16). James H. Bud worth, G. W. H. Griffin, Frank Hussey, Fred Abbot, Geo. Clinton, Geo. Parkinson, and J. Stanwood appeared, remaining until the close of the season. May 27, 1865. S. S. Sharpley, "who had a minstrel company known as the " Ironclads," became the manager June 12, 1865. He opened with his minstrels, and closed June 29.
TONY PASTOR'S OPERA HOUSE.
SAMUEL S. SHARPLEY and Tony Pastor rented the house for two weeks and brought together the following company, open- ing July 31 : John Wild, Bertha, Sheridan and Mack, James Gaynor, Willis Armstrong, Bob Butler, Ernestine de Faber, Blanche Stanley, Amelia Wells, Ellen Collene and John Braham, leader of the orchestra. Among others who appeared during the season were, Alf Moe, the skater ; Charles Winter, the infant Ravel ; Sam Ryan ; Laura Taylor, an English vocalist ; El Nino Eddie, Bob Hart, Billy Reeve, Maggie Vernon, Lizzie Donaldson, Geo. Warren, Master Barry, Lew Brim- mer, T. G. Riggs, Jenny Engel, Milly Warren, Lottie La Point, and Josh Hart. Sharpley and Pastor's success was so great that Tony Pastor bought out Richard M. Hooley, who had a lease of the premises. The new manager gave a first-class variety performance, one to which ladies might go with their families, and which omitted the smoking and drinking features of the other variety houses. The first season closed June 9, 1866. Tony Pastor then made a short tour with a company, and Sam Sharpley took possession, opening with the following people : Sam Sharpley, Frank Kerns, Billy Pastor,
172 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1872
Johnny Thompson, Robert Butler, Amelia Wells, Carrie Byron, Walter Eaton, Frank Pell, and Robert Delany, gymnast. Sharpley closed July 7. Tony Pastor commenced his second season July 30, 1866, and in his organization were, Tony Pastor, T. G. Riggs, Mack, John Wild, G. F. McDonald, Masters Barry and Warren, King, Ford, Armstrong, Marcellus Szollosy, Jenny Engel, Florence McDonald, Bertha, Florence Wells, the Walby Sisters, Hattie Engel, the Gorenflo Sisters, Nellie Gray, Sallie Loudon, and Carrie Carner. During the season the following players appeared from time to time : Mrs. Frank McDonald, a troupe of Bedouin Arabs, Frank Hussey, Sig. Monteverde. Jenny Benson, clog dancer, from the Dublin theatres ; Mons. La Thorne, James Gaynor, Billy Emerson, Denny Gallagher, Senorita Lopez, and infant gymnasts, Harry Burchard, Eugene Martini, Herr Harl ; Dave Hawley, gymnast, Barry O'Neil, Irish comedian; G. W. Thompson, Billy Sheppard, Kate Partington, Sam Collyer and sons, J. W. Collins, Johnny Allen, Nellie Whitney ; Sig. Bueno Core, fire king; Naomi Porter, a Japanese troupe, Melinda Nagle, and Sig. Jos^ Bastiglioni, contortionist. The season closed June i, 1867.
A summer season opened June 3 with Walter Brown, the champion oarsman and athlete, Prof. Tanner and company of performing dogs, Lew Brimmer, Dick Carroll, Pete Lee, and others. They closed June 29. After having been reconstructed the house reopened July 29, 1 867, with the following attractions : Sam Collyer and sons, Sally Swift, Billy Emmett, J. A. Graver, Prof. Logrenia, John Pearce, Prof. Doebler, G. R. McDonald, John Collins, Jenny Engel, Billy Sheppard, John Wild, Robert Nickle, the Leon Brothers, Dave Hawley, and others. The house was then occupied for four weeks by Emerson, Allen & Manning's minstrels.
The next season commenced Aug. 3, 1868, with the company as follows: Tony Pastor, Johnny Thompson, Frank Kerns, G. W. Thompson, Billy Sheppard, T. G. Riggs, J. A. Graver, Billy Emmett, Robt. Delancey, Jas. Bradley, Pete Conners, J. W. Collins, Jenny Engel, Addie Le Brun, Helene Smith, Nellie Gray, and Marie Gorenflo. The season closed June 26, 1869.
Mr. Pastor's next season began Aug. 2 with the following com- pany: Frank Kerns, G. W. Thompson, T. G. Riggs, Bobby New- comb, Jas. W. Collins, D. L. Morris, Geo. Warren, J. A. Graver, R. Connors, H. Clifford, Sam Collyer and sons, J. W. McAndrews, and Tony Pastor, Mile. Irma, danseuse, the Gorenflo Sisters, Sallie Mason, Jenny Benson, Helene Smith, and Addie Le Brun. Harrigan and Hart made their first appearance here Sept. 16, 1872, in "The Little Fraud." The next week they played " The Big and Little of It." The next week they appeared in " After the War." On Oct. 7 they introduced an act called "Sweet Summer." They played until Nov. 3, 1872. Ladies were admitted free on Fridays. A
1884] THE PEOPLE'S THEATRE 1 73
benefit for the Dan Bryant Fund occurred Aug. 29, 1875. In addition to the regular company engaged for the week, the following volunteered: Alvardo, Adah Richmond, Rickey and Barney, Nelly St. John, John Denier, the Devere Brothers, Jennie Hughes, King Sarbro, and Maggie Denier. Tony Pastor for ten years conducted ; this house as an attractive variety theatre, enjoying the utmost prosperity and popularity. In October, 1875, he retired. Paul Falk opened the house at cheap prices in the fall of 1875. Harry Miner was business manager. During the summer of 1883 the building was torn down, and Harry Miner at once commenced the erection of a theatre to be devoted to dramatic attractions, called The People's Theatre, which opened Sept. 3, 1883, with Shook and Collier's " The Lights o' London ; " Sept. 10, Roland Reed in " Cheek ; " Sept. 17, "Fun on the Bristol;" Sept. 24, J. B. Studley in "Rose Michel;" Oct. i, J. K. Emmet in "Fritz in Ireland;" Oct. 8, "Pop; " Oct. IS, "New Flying Dutch Man," with C. P. Flockton, Miss Helen Bancroft, and Thomas Glenney in the cast ; The Wilbur opera company came Oct. 22 in " lolanthe " for three nights ; " Pirates of Penzance," Oct. 25 ; Oct. 29, " The Silver King ; " Nov. S Ada Gray was seen in " East Lynne ; " Nov. 12, Frank Mayo in " Davy Crockett ; " Baker and Farren in the new play " Govern- ment House " Nov. 19, for four nights, and " Chris and Lena" Nov. 23 and 24 ; Nov. 26, " Her Atonement ; " Dec. 3 M. B. Curtis came in " Sam'l of Posen ; " Dec. 10, " The Silver King ; " Dec. 17, Haverly's minstrels ; Dec. 24, Charles Bowser in " A Bunch of Keys ; " Dec. 31, Kate Claxton in " The Two Orphans ; " Jan. 7, 1884, " In the Ranks ; " Jan. 14, Barry and Fay in " Irish Aristocracy ; " Jan. 21, Thatcher, Primrose and West's minstrels; Jan. 28, Buffalo Bill in "The Prairie Waif;" Feb. 4, "The Stranglers of Paris;" Feb. II, Dion Boucicault in "The Shaughraun;" Feb. 18, Agnes Booth in " Pique; " Feb. 25, " Esmeralda; " March 3, Hanlon Broth- ers with "Le Voyage en Suisse;" March 10, "Lights o' London;" March 17, B. Macauley in "A Messenger from Jarvis Section;" March 24, " Romany Rye ; " March 31," Black Flag ; " April 7, " Or- pheus and Eurydice; " April 14, Neil Burgess in "Vim ; " April 21, " The White Slave ; " April 28, " Only A Farmer's Daughter ; " May 5, "The Silver King; " May 12, " Hazel Kirke; " May 19, Wallack's company in " Lady Claire ; " May 26, " Devil's Auction ; " June 2, Chas. L. Davis in " Alvin Joslin ; " June 9, " The Stranglers of Paris;" June 16, "The Queen's Lace Handkerchief." The season closed June 20. The next season opened Aug. 16 with " The Silver King ; " Fred de Belleville playing Wilfred Denver ; Eleanor Carey, Nelly Denver; and John Jennings as Jaikes; Aug. 23, "The White Slave ; " Sept. i, " Siberia ; " Sept 8, Roland Reed in " Cheek ; " Sept. IS, Edwin Thorne in "The Black Flag; " Sept. 22, "The Pulse of New York ; " Sept. 29, " Hearts of Oak ; " Oct. 6, " Storm Beaten ; "
174 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D886
Oct. 13, Augustin Daly's company in "7.20-8;" Oct. 20, Lester Wallack's company in " Moths ; " Oct. 27, " The Galley Slave ; " Nov. 3, "Blue and Gray;" Nov. 10, "In the Ranks;" Nov. 17, "Her Atonement;" Nov. 24, "The Silver King;" Dec. i. The Wilbur opera company in " Girofle Girofla," " Little Duke," and " Estrella " for the week ; Dec. 8, " Shadows of a Great City ; " Dec. 15, The Bijou opera company in "Orpheus and Eurydice;" Dec. 22, " Called Back ; " Dec. 29, Barlow and Wilson's minstrels ; Jan. 5, 1885, "The Devil's Auction; " Jan. 12, Gus Williams in "Capt. Mishler;" Jan. 19, Lotta in "Little Detective;" Jan. 26, "Wages of Sin ; " Feb. 2, "A Bunch of Keys; " Feb. 9, " Michael Strogofif; " Feb. 16, "Romany Rye;" Feb. 23, Louis Aldrich in "My Part- ner;" March 2, "A Midnight Marriage;" March 9, "Hazel Kirke;" March 16, Boucicault in "The Shaughraun;" March 23, Salsbury's Troubadours ; March 30, " Youth ; " April 6, " May Blossoms;" April 13, Louis Harrison and Gourlay in " Skipped by the Light of the Moon ; " April 20, " Le Voyage en Suisse ; " April 27, " Only a Farmer's Daughter ; " May 4, Oliver Doud Byron in "Across the Continent;" May 11, "The Stranglers of Paris." Wm. E. Sheridan came May 18, 19, and 20 as King Lear, matinee May 20 as Ingomar, and balance of the week in " Louis XL ; " May 25, Milton Nobles in "Love and Law." Season closed May 30, and reopened Aug. 10, 1885, with Roland Reed, Alice Harrison, and others in "The Mikado;" Aug. 17, Barlow, Wilson, and Rankin's minstrels ; Aug. 24, " The World ; " Sept. 7, " Storm Beaten ; " Sept. 14, " Alone in London ; " Sept. 21, W. J. Scanlan in " Shane Na Lawn;" Sept. 28, "Michael Strogoff;" Oct. 5, "Nobody's Claim " was given ; Oct. 12, EfSe Ellsler came in " Woman Against Woman;" Oct. 19, Oliver Doud Byron in "Inside Track;" Oct. 26, Edwin Thorne in " Crimes of Paris ; " Nov. 2, Mme. Janish in " Anselma ; " Nov. 9, " Her Atonement ; " Nov. 16, Lizzie Evans in "Fogg's Fairy;" Nov. 23, F. C. Bangs in "The Silver King;" Nov. 30, Fanny Davenport in "Fedora;" matinee Dec. 2, Maud Granger in " American Marriage ; " Dec. 7, Evans & Hoey in " A Parlor Match ; " Dec. 13, Lillian Lewis in "Article 47;" Dec. 20, Standard Theatre company in " The Mikado ; " Dec. 25, Effie Ellsler, in " Woman Against Woman ; " Jan. 4, 1886, " A Bunch of Keys; " Jan. II, "The Wages of Sin;" Jan. 18, Kate Claxton in "The Sea of Ice;" Jan. 25, "Blackmail;" Feb. i the new play " A Great Wrong Righted," by John M. Morton, was acted with this cast :
Richard Bright Frederick . . Moses . . .
John A. Stevens
Harry Colton
W. P. Sheldon
Eliza Adelaide Stanhope
Milly Graham .... Emily L3rtton
Loudan McCormack and Maude Muller were also in the cast. Feb. 8 Gus Williams came, in "One of the Finest; " Feb. 15 Fred
1887] THE PEOPLE'S THEATRE 1 75
Warde acted Virgihius; Feb. 16, "Othello;" Feb. 17, "Lady of Lyons; " Feb. 18, "Damon and Pythias; " Milton Nobles was seen in "Love and Law" Feb. 22 ; March i, "Romany Ryfe;" March 8, N. C. Goodwin in " Skating Rink ;" March 15, Wm. A. Mestayer and Theresa Vaughn, in " We, Us & Co. ; " March 22, " The World ; " March 29, J. B. Studley in "A Prisoner for Life;" April 5, Marie Aimee in "Mam'zelle;" April 12, " A Rag Baby;" April 19, "A Midnight Marriage," with Wm. Redmund and Mrs. Barry in the cast; April 26, Cora Tanner in "Alone in London ;" May 3, Tony Hart in "A Toy Pistol;" May 10, "Private Secretary" by the Madison Square Theatre company; May 17, Murray and Murphy in " Our Irish Visitor ; " May 24, George Clarke's new play, " A Strange Disappearance," for the first time; May 31, Barry and Fay in " Irish Aristocracy ; " June 7, " One of the Bravest ; " June 14, Milton Nobles.
"Zitka" was done for the first time June 21. Gustave Levick, John W. Jennings, Charlotte Behrens, Edith Crolius, A. H. Forrest, Henry Aveling, Percy Meldon, Matt Snyder, Rose Snyder, Edith Jordan, and Barbara Eyre were in the cast. " Zitka " was re- peated week of June 28, and the season closed July 3. Reopened Aug. 33 with " Zitka ; " Aug. 30, Edmund Collier in " Jack Cade ; " Sept. 6, first time in this city of James A. Heme's play, " The Minute Men;" Sept. 13, "Blackmail;" Sept. 20, "Shadows of a Great City; " Sept. 27, "A Rag Baby; " Oct. 4, Ada Gray in a "A Ring of Iron; " Oct. 11, Efifie EUsler in "Woman Against Woman;" Oct. 18, "A Wall Street Bandit;" Oct. 25, "A Great Wrong Righted."
Kate Claxton appeared Nov. i, 1886, in "The Two Orphans." In her company were C. A. Stevenson, Alice Leigh, Dollie Pike, Lillian Vance, James Edwards, Joseph A. Wilkes, Heaton Manice, Floride Abell, Emilie Edwards, G. S. Robinson, Gertrude Cameron, and others. Robson and Crane came Nov. 8, in " The Comedy of Errors;" "The Silver King," Nov. 15; Frank Mayo, Nov. 22, in "Nordeck; " Nov. 29, " Held by the Enemy; " Dec. 6, Gus Williams in " Oh, What a Night ! " Dec. 13, Tony Hart in " Donnybrook; " Dec. 20, Evans and Hoey in " A Parlor Match ; " Fanny Davenport Dec. 27, in "Fedora; " Edmund Collier Jan. 3, 1887, as Metamora; Jan. 10 and 17, " Hoodman Blind; " "Private Secretary" Jan. 24; "A Tin Soldier" Jan. 31; Feb. 7, "The Banker's Daughter;" Feb. 14, " We, Us & Co ; " " The Wages of Sin " Feb. 21 ; Robert L. Downing Feb. 28 in " The Gladiator ; " March 7, Milton and Dolly Nobles in " Love and Law ; " " Passing Shadows " March 14; Marie Aimee March 21, in "Mam'zelle." Mrs. D. P. Bowers appeared March 28-29, and April i in " Queen Elizabeth ; " March 30, "Mary Stuart; " March 31, "Macbeth;" for the Wednesday and Saturday matinees she acted " Lady Audley's Secret " and
176 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE tisss
"Mary Stuart;" " Hoodman Blind" April 4; "Gypsy Baron" April 11; Mrs. John Drew as Mrs. Malaprop in "The Rivals" April 18; The Madison Square Theatre company April 2$, in " The Main Line, or Rawson's 7 ; " May 2, Wm. J. Scanlan in " Shane Na Lawn ; " James O'Neill May 9, in " Monte Cristo ; " Lillian Olcott May 16, in " Theodora ; " Nat Goodwin May 23, in "Little Jack Sheppard ; " "On The Rio Grande" May 30; Frank Mayo June 6, for two weeks in " Royal Guard ; " June 20, Robert McWade in " Rip Van Winkle ; " and the season closed June 25 , to reopen Aug. 22, with Kate Claxton in " The Two Orphans ; " " The Dominie's Daughter " Aug. 29 ; J. K. Emmet, Sept. S, in " Our Cousin German;" Mrs. D. P. Bowers commenced Sept. 12, in " Mme. Croesus," for the first time in this city, cast as follows :
Pierre W. G. Beach
Maurice Sidney Bowkett
Nadia Mittens Willett
Mme. Desvarennes, Mrs. D. P. Bowers Mons. Rosenberg . Geo. W. Thompson
Mons. de Trembley Mons. Michaud
Percy Hunting . Carl Ahrend
Prince Henry Aveling
Anatole Arthur Giles
Clarice .... Alice Fairbrother
This same work of Ohnet had been previously produced in this city under the title of " Serge Panine." " Our Jennie " had its first New York representation Dec. 26, cast as follows :
Larry Fogarty . James Walton . Bridget Fogarty Our Jennie . .
John T. Burke
J. J. Macready
. Emily Stowe
Jennie Yeamans
Jinks J. W. Summers
Frank Farr Fred Mayer
Mrs. Farr Addie Eaton
Willie Wilkie .... Collin Varrey
This was the first appearance in this city of Eugenia Jennie Yeamans as a star.
Jan. 2, 1888, Thatcher and West's minstrels; Jan. 9, for two weeks, J. K. Emmet; Jan. 23, Kate Claxton was announced to open, but the death of her father prevented it. " The Two Orphans " was given for three nights, with Sadie Deane as Louise. Kate Claxton commenced Jan. 26, in Frank Harvey's melodrama, " The World Against Her." It had its first performance in New York, cast as follows :
Madge Carlton Lucy Dauvers Liz Markland . James Carlton , Simon Clegg Harold Vernon . Jenney Clegg , Sally Millet . .
. . . Kate Claxton . . . Leslie Tillson . . Maud Hosford Charles A. Stevenson . . Palmer Collins Payson Mackaye . . . Esther Lyon . . . Alice Leigh
Annie Little Daisey
Gilbert Blair ... A. H. Forrest Robert Danvers ... Ed. T. Hall Bob Millet . . . . Ed. E. Egleton Dick Markland . . . . R. Hickman
Heslop Theo. Williams
Thwaites Ed. Short
Ned .... Master Frank Dean
It was acted week of Jan. 30; Feb. 6, "Silver King"; Feb. 13, Frank Daniels in " Little Puck ; " Feb. 20, Maggie Mitchell in
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"Jane Eyre" and "Little Barefoot;" Feb. 27, "A Tin Soldier;" March 5, James O'Neill in "Monte Cristo;" March 12, N. C. Goodwin in " Turned Up ; " March 19, " A Rag Baby ; " March 26, "Hoodman Blind; " April 2, Frank Mayo in "The Royal Guard; " April 9, " Harbor Lights ; " April 16, W. J. Scanlan.
Edwin F. Mayo's New York debut as a star was at this theatre April 23, in " Davy Crockett." Chas. T. Ellis made his New York d6but as a star April 30, in "Caspar the Yodler; " May 7, "Drift- ing Apart," by James Heme, for the first time on any stage, for two weeks, with this cast :
Jack Hepburne . . . James A. Heme Percy Seward .... H. M. Pitt
Silas C. W. Butler
Mary Miller - . Katherine C. Heme
Hestor Vic Reynolds
Harry James Oliver
Alec Phineas Leach
Josh Robert Alexander
Mrs. Seward . Miss Stanley Little Margaret . Miss Esterbrook Miss Fairchild .
Henrietta Bert
. Maude Jeffries
Little Dot Winters
. Lucille Pearson
Adelaide Nelson
" Among the Pines " was given for the first time in New York June II, with this cast:
Capt. Allen Heartly . Eben Plympton Mike Leggett . . P. Aug. Anderson
Hopgood Hettie . . . Howard Gale Pat Mahoney
Thos. J. Herndon . Maggie Fields Thos. L. Coleman . John F. Ward
John Dalton . . . R. F. McClannin
Joey Wallie Eddinger
Minnie Libby Noxon
Marion Helen Windsor
Jerusha Louisa Eldridge
Solon Sheridan Tupper
The next season commenced Aug. 20 with "Judge Not," E. H. Vanderfelt, F. C. Bangs, Frank Weston, Mme. Ponisi, Helen Ban- croft, and EflSe Ellsler in the cast. This was followed Aug. 27 by "The Golden Giant," Kate (Mrs. McKee) Rankin as the star; Sept. 3, F. A. Tannehill, Jr.'s musical comedy, " Struck Gas," with Carrie Tutein (Mrs. Harry Pepper) as the star; Sept. 10-17, t^e " tank play," " Lost in New York ; " Sept. 24 Kate Claxton appeared in « The World Against Her." The " tank " drama, " A Dark Secret," commenced a fortnight's stay on Oct. i. A benefit for the yellow- fever sufferers Sunday night, Oct. 7.
Sept. 3, Frank A. Tannehill's play, " Struck Gas," when Carrie Tutein made her debut as a star. This play was originally called "Nan's Acre." Sept. 10, for two weeks, "Lost in New York;" Sept. 24, Kate Claxton in "The World Against Her; " Oct. i, for two weeks, " A Dark Secret."
Frank Daniels began in "Little Puck" Oct. 15, followed Oct. 22 by F. B. Warde. Walter Standish's version of Sardou's " Theodora " was done Oct. 29, with Phosa McAllister as the star. " Shadows of a Great City" Nov. 5. The Gillette company Nov. 12, in "A Legal
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178 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cissg
Wreck," followed Nov. 19 by " Paul Kauvar," with Steele Mackaye, Carrie Turner, Edmund Collier, and Charles Vandenhoff in the cast. The Madison Square Theatre company, in " Jim the Penman," Nov. 26; James O'Neill in " Monte Cristo," Dec. 3 ; Frank Mayo, in "The Royal Guard " and " Nordeck," week of Dec. 10.
Gillette's version of " She " was done Dec. 17, followed Dec. 31 by Johnson & Slavin's minstrels. "The Still Alarm" came Jan. 7, 1889 for two weeks; Jan. 21, Daniel E. Bandmann in "Austerlitz" (Tom Taylor's old play, " Dead or Alive ") ; " Paul Kauvar " Jan. 28, Joseph Haworth in the title r61e; Feb. 4, Robert Mantell, in " Monbars," followed Feb. 1 1 for two weeks by " The Tigress," Selina Fetter as the star:
Lord Noddy Servant . . . Count Beaudry Count Barrotti . Stella Barrotti .
. Eugene Sanger Joseph Conlyn Frank Karrington . Ramsay Morris . . Selina Fetter
Angela Romano . . Blanche Weaver Countess Beaudry . . Nellie Taylor Madame Lanine . . . Nina Freith Etienne Mamie Ryan
Minnie Palmer Feb. 25, in "My Sweetheart," R. A. Roberts as Tony. Mrs. Langtry March 11, in "Macbeth," repeated March 12 and 13, Duncan B. Harrison, who appeared here week of March 4, in "The Paymaster," returned March 15, as Mrs. Langtry had to retire in consequence of illness.
J. Charles Davis, business manager of the theatre, took a benefit afternoon of March 14. Louis Aldrich, Ida Mulle, Amy Lee, Minnie Palmer, R. A. Roberts, R. B. Mantell and his " Monbars " the Spanish Students, "The Paymaster" company, "The Cavalier" company, Florence Thropp, Dot Clarendon, Elsie Leslie, W. H. Gillette, and others appeared. " The Stowaway " was seen March 18 ; " Held by the Enemy " March 25.
April I E. H. Sothern came with " The Highest Bidder." April 8, the Lyceum Theatre company, in " The Wife." April ij, "The Cavalier," Henry Lee as the star. April 22, the "tank play," " Lost in New York." April 29 Thomas W. Keene began an en- gagement in " Richelieu," and during the week was seen in "The Merchant of Venice," " Othello," " Hamlet," " Richard III.," and "Julius Caesar." The season closed May 15.
The season of 1889-90 opened Aug. 17, with " Myrtle Ferns," Mai Estelle the star. The cast was:
Emma Myrtle .... Mai Estelle
Chick Mollie Thompson
Edith Lizzie Emerson
Mrs. Myrtle .... Kate Estelle
O'Grady Arthur Sprague
Nelson Oak . . . Frank De Vernon
Larry W. J. Russell
Robert Myrtle . . . Edwin Maynard
Jake Worth F. R. Butler
Dan Andrew Peterson
Morgan Geo. Caron
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" Silver Age " was produced Aug. 26. The cast :
Capt. John Caton Harry Flint . Stephen Wray James Parker Dan Hyde . Lona Wilder
Edwin F. Mayo
Louis Hendricks
. James Blake
. Daniel Lacy
Harry Underbill
Jennie Williams
Barbara Wray Groggy . . McCartT • • Bill . . . Tender Foot
. Kitty Presser Marvin Ashley J. B. Donovan Harry Phillips . Luke Martin
The Redmund-Barry company played " Herminie " week com- mencing Sept 2, followed Sept. 9 by " She; " Sept. 16, " Mankind; " Sept. 23, John A. Stevens in " Wife for Wife ; " Sept. 30, " Paul Kauvar; " Oct. 7, "The Suspect; " its first New York production, and with this cast :
Duke de Pressles ^ Gaspard Simon >■ Lieut. Simon ) Jacques Fanon Count d'Assol Capt. Louis Robert
. . Henry Lee
Harry Mainhall . William Lee Alex. Kearney
Doctor Pajol ... De Loss King Gilbert d'Arrennes . Minnie Seligman
Blanche Helen Ottolengui
Gen. Robert .... Ferd. Hight Bonasse .... Charles Bradshaw
" Jim the Penman " was produced Oct. 14, by the Madison Square Theatre company; Oct. 21, " Sweet Lavender; " Oct. 28, " Captain Swift;" Nov. 4, "The Paymaster;" Nov. 11 "Almost a Life" had this cast:
Walter Osmond . Louis Miller . Joseph Daly W. J. Leonard J. F. Corrigan . DoUie Brooks
Avisie Doranche . . Maud Granger Collinet . .
Jules de Bonneval . David Murray Mons. Jerome
Monsieur Manuel Phillipe . .
Arthur Falkland Buchanan Doumat . .
Count Ernest Clairnot J. Clinton Hall Berincourt .
Dr. Saumaise . . . James Bradbury Francine . . Countess Melanie Clairnot
Judith Berrolde
" Ferncliff " was seen Nov. 18 ; "A Dark Secret " Nov. 25 ; " Fas- cination," Dec. 2 ; " The Tourists in a Pullman Car," Dec. 9. Geo. C. Staley made his New York debut Dec. 16, in "A Royal Pass." Dec. 23, " Hands Across the Sea ; " Dec. 30, " My Jack ; " Jan. 6, 1890, "After Dark; " Jan. 13, " The Still Alarm," for two weeks; Jan. 27, " Roger La Honte," by the Terriss-Millward company ; Robert Mantell Feb. 3, in "The Corsican Brothers;" Feb. 10, "Mr. Barnes of New York," with Emily Rigl in the cast.
" Held by the Enemy " company Feb. 24, followed March 3 by Prof. Herrmann; March 10, "The Stowaway;" March 17, "The Wife;" March 24, "The Exiles," with Ralph Delmore, Nestor Lennon, W. S. Harkins, Harry Bradley, Adele Belgarde, Keith Wakeman, and C. H. Bradshaw in the cast. March 31, "The Burglar ; " April 7, Effie Ellsler and company in " The Governess." The cast: Jarvis Coulter, Frank Weston; Jack Rogers, Orrin
l8o A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsgo
Johnson ; Job Monckton, John A. Ellsler ; Adolph Honore Segrist, Paul R. Everton ; Jimmy Needles, Joseph Wheelock, Jr. ; Mr. Tate, G. H. Pickman; Mr. Jones, E. Legant ; Sam, T. A. Hetley; Mrs. Hamilton, Emma Butler; Lenny, Little Rica; Chrissy Rogers, Lucille La Verne; Helen Talbot, Pearl Means; Zorah Warden, Effie Ellsler.
" Hands Across the Sea " April 14. " Guilty Without Crime " April 21. This was an adaptation of "Aurora Floyd." Robert Mantell appeared April 28 in " Monbars," followed May 5 by " Bootle's Baby," in which Kate Claxton appeared. Mattie Vickers came May 12, in " Jacquine, or Paste and Diamonds." This was her stellar appearance in New York. " The Dead Heart," Walter H. Pollock's revised version of Watts Phillips' play, was done May 19 for the week. Adfele Payn, a lady who had had some little experience in acting, having been with George Miln, was the head and front of the spec- ulation. The cast was : Robert Landry, Joseph Wheelock ; The Abb6 La Tour, Henry Aveling; The Count de St. Valery, Thos. J. Branick ; Arthur de St. Valery (his son), Walter Pleugh ; Legrand, W. J. Hurley; Toupet, Harry N. Dowley; Reboul, J. H. Black; Michael, Floyd Minot; Jean, Edgar S. Mackay; Pierre, T. A. Richards; Jocrisse, J. J. Holland; Guiscard, M. Archer; A. Smith, Phil. Raynor; A Crier, Robt. V. Percy; A Woman, Miss Mont- gomery ; Cerisette, Lizzie May Ulmer ; Rose, Stella Bar ; Catharine Duvall, Adele Payn. The week's business was disastrous, financially. Mr. Wheelock had his salary of three hundred dollars deposited, and was secure. May 26, " One of the Bravest;" June 2, Frank Mayo opened in " Nordeck," and during the week played " Davy Crock- ett." " The Paymaster " followed June 9, for one week, and the company gave a performance June 16 for the benefit of Duncan B. Harrison.
The next season (1890-91) opened Aug. 18 with "Eugenie Le Tour." The cast : Pierre Le Tour, Elmer Grandin ; Louis Romaine, J. T. Burke; Maurice de Franco, Myron Leffingwell; Count de Treville, Chas. Mortimer ; Victor Le Croix, Martin Hayden ; Paul Bazinne, Thomas McGrath ; M. Gilberte, E. D. Tannehill ; Lucette Le Croix, Marion A. Earle; Mme. Roche, Mrs. May N. Drew; Alline Regey, Louise Van Linden ; Nannine, Marie Monck ; Eugenie Le Tour, Eva Montford.
Wm. Redmund opened Aug. 25 in "Herminie," followed Sept. i by " The Bottom of the Sea." The cast :
Alexis Banalli . Henri de Sartene Ernest le Brun . Barney Doyle . Admiral de Give Captain le Clair . Gibson, first officer
George W. Barnum . Adolph Jackson J. H. Fitzpatrick Eugene O'Rourke . Frederick Starr B. J. Murphy . James Bernard
Orderly for the Court Madame le Brun . Madame de Sartene James Norton . . Boatswain . . . Emile le Brun . . Denizette . . .
W. S. Weathers . Rita O'Neill Belle Douglass David Murray . J. W. Sibler Lillian Lee Fanny Cohen
1892] THE PEOPLE'S THEATRE l8l
J. K. Emmet commenced Sept. 8 in " Uncle Joe," followed Sept. 15 by "An Irish Arab;" Sept. 22, John A. Stevens in " Wife for Wife;" Sept. 29, "Paul Kauvar;" Oct. 6, "The Governess;" Oct. 13, "My Jack;" Oct. 20, " One of the Bravest;" Oct. 27, Oliver Doud Byron in " The Plunger." Nov. 3, Hallen and Hart came in "Later On; " Nov. 10, " Mask of Life;" Nov. 17, "Hands Across the Sea;" Nov. 24. M. B. Curtis and "The Shatchen;" Dec. i, Kate Claxton in " The Two Orphans ; " Dec. 8 Cora Tanner pro- duced " The Refugee's Daughter " for the first time in this city under that title, it having previously been acted by Clara Morris under the title of " Helene."
Amy Lee was seen Dec. 1 5 in " The Clipper," with Rose Watkins as Mother Ridlaw; " Money Mad" came Dec. 22 for two weeks ; "A Dark Secret" was done Jan. 5, 1891 ; "Mankind" Jan. 12; "Mr. Barnes of New York " Jan. 19 ; Effie Ellsler Jan. 26 in " Hazel Kirke," with Charles W. Couldock in the cast ; " After Dark" Feb. 2 ; Min- nie Palmer Feb. 9, in " A Mile A Minute ; " " Still Alarm " Feb. 16 ; " The Inspector " Feb. 23 ; " Clemenceau Case " March 2 ; Prof. Alex. Herrmann, magician, March 9; Kate Claxton March 16, in " A Woman's Glory ; " " The Burglar " March 23 ; Robert Mantell March 30, in " The Marble Heart," repeated March 3 1 and matinee April I ; " Monbars " and the " Corsican Brothers " filled out the week. J. K. Emmet came April 6, in " Uncle Joe ; " " Bottom of the Sea" April 13 ; "Ticket of Leave Man " April 20, with Joseph Wheelock as Bob Brierly ; W. J. Scanlan was seen in " Myles Aroon " April 27 ; "The Witch " came May 4, for the first time to this city ; Jane Coombs appeared May 1 1, in " Bleak House ; " " Kidnapped " came May 18 for two weeks, and the season closed May 30.
The house reopened Aug. 15, 1891, with " Fabio Romani ; " Agnes Herndon was seen Aug. 24 in " La Belle Marie ; " " Through by Daylight " Aug. 31, with James M. Ward as the star; " Danger Sig- nal " Sept. 7. This play was previously known as " The Main Line." Eva Montford came Sept. 14 in " East Lynne ; " John A. Stevens Sept. 21 in " Unknown ; " " Paul Kauvar " Sept. 28 ; " Patrol " Oct. 5 ; Cora Tanner Oct. 12, in " Will She Divorce Him .? " " My Jack " Oct 19; "A Fair Rebel " Oct. 26 ; Hallen and Hart, with " Later On," Nov. 2 ; " One of the Bravest " Nov. 9 ; Oliver Doud Byron Nov. 16, in "The Plunger;" "Jack Royal of the 92," with Harry Lacy as the star, Nov. 23 ; Carroll Johnson Nov. 30, in the " Gos- soon." Clara Morris appeared in " Odette " Dec. 7 ; " Power of the Press " came Dec. 14 for two weeks ; " After Dark " was done Dec. 28, in the fourth act of which James J. Corbett, the pugilist, appeared. "A Royal Pass" was given Jan. 4, 1892; Robert L. Downing Jan. II, also matinde and night of Jan. 16 in the " Gladiator ;" " Taming of the Shrew " and " French Marriage " (first time in this city) mat- inee Jan. 13; "Virginius" night of Jan. 13; "Damon and Pythias"
1 82 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1893
Jan. 14; "Julius Csesar," Jan. 15. Robert Mantell came Jan. 18, in " The Louisianian ; " Effie Ellsler Jan. 25, in " Hazel Kirke," C. W. Couldock as Dunstan ; " Mr. Barnes of New York " Feb. i ; Joseph Murphy Feb. 8, in " The Donogh " for three nights, and " Kerry Gow" the balance of the week ; Kate Claxton Feb. 15, in "Two Orphans ; " " Eight Bells " Feb. 22 ; " Still Alarm " Feb. 29 ; " The Bells " March 7, with Joseph Haworth as the star ; " Jack Royal " March 14; Katie Emmett March 21, in " The Waifs ; " " Clemenceau Case " March 28 ; "A Midnight Alarm " April 4, for the first time in New York ; Prof. Alex. Herrmann was seen April 1 1 ; Evans and Hoey came April 18, in " A Parlor Match ; " " Kidnapped " April 25 ; " Dangers of a Great City " May 2 ; " The Colleen " May 9 ; Mattie Vickers May 16, in " Edelweiss ; " " Irish Inspiration " was seen for the first time on any stage May 23. The season closed June 4 with " The House on the Marsh."
The next season began August 13, 1892, with "Fabio Romani;" Sadie Scanlan was seen Aug. 22, in " Nora Machree; " " The Ven- detta " Aug. 29 ; " Police Patrol " Sept. S ; " Paul Kauvar " Sept. 12 ; Eva Montford, in " East Lynne," Sept. 19 ; " Larry the Lord " Sept. 26, with R. E. Graham as the star ; " Wide, Wide World " Oct. 3 ; "My Jack" Oct. 10; " Power of the Press" Oct. 17; Carroll John- son Oct. 24, in "The Gossoon;" "The Black Detective" Oct. 31, with Wash Melville as the star ; Oliver Doud Byron Nov. 7 in "Across the Continent ; " " Fire Patrol " Nov. 14 ; " Gentleman Jack " Nov. 21, with James J. Corbett, the pugilist, as the star. "The Power of Gold" was given Nov. 28 for the first time in America. It was originally entitled " Man to Man." " Danger Signal " came Dec. 5 ; "The Silver King" Dec. 12; Evans and Hoey Dec. 19; "White Squadron " Dec. 26 ; " Eight Bells " opened with the matinee of Jan. 2, 1893. "At the Carnival" came Jan. 9, for the first time in New York. It was originally called " Beatrice." " The Span of Life " was seen Jan. 16, for the first time in New York. It was originally acted in America at Philadelphia the week previous. " Hazel Kirke " came Jan. 23 with Effie Ellsler and C. W. Couldock in the cast. " Midnight Bell " Jan. 30. " Across the Potomac " Feb. 6; "Flag of 'Truce" Feb, 13; "Blue Jeans" Feb. 20; "A Night at the Circus " Feb. 27, with Nellie McHenry as the star. " Killarney " came March 6, with Katie Emmett as the star. " Sport McAllister" was done March 13; "Power of Gold" March 20; " Operator " March 27, the Newell Brothers as the stars. " Ma- vourneen" was seen April 3, with Chauncey Olcott as the star. "The Planter's Wife" came April 10; John T. Kelly April 17, in " McFee of Dubhn." " Jane," preceded by " Chums," was seen April 24, with Johnstone Bennett as the star. Vernona Jarbeau appeared May I in "Starlight." "Lost Paradise" May 8; "Belle Marie" May 15, with Agnes Herndon as the star. " A Girl with a Temper"
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was given May 17, for the first time in this city. " My Colleen" came May 22 ; " Uncle Tom's Cabin " May 29 ; and the season closed June 3.
The next season began Aug. 12, with Milton Nobles in "The Phoenix." " The Silver King " was seen Aug. 21:" McFee of Dub- lin" Aug. 28; "Eight Bells" Sept. 4; "Old Kentucky" Sept. 11; "Powerof Gold" Sept. 18; " Mavourneen " Sept. 25 ; "Blue Jeans" Oct. 2 ; " Across the Potomac " Oct. 9 ; " Power of the Press " Oct. 16; " Lost Paradise" Oct. 23 ; "Ensign" Oct. 30; Hallenand Hart in " The New Idea " Nov. 6 ; " The White Squadron " Nov. 13 ; " Police Patrol" Nov, 20; " Span of Life" Nov. 27; "Flag of Truce" Dec. 4; "A Nutmeg Match" Dec. 11; "Struggle of Life" Dec. 18; " Patent Applied For" Dec. 25 ; "New South" Jan. i, 1894; Oliver Doud Byron Jan. 8, in " The Hero of Africa." In England this play was called "The Dark Continent." Effie EUsler came Jan. 15, in " Doris." Gus Hegee Jan. 22, in " Yon Yonson ; " " District Fair " Jan. 29 ; " My Jack " Feb. S ; " Paul Kauvar " Feb. 12 ; J. K. Emmet Feb. 19, in "Fritz; " "Blue Grass" Feb. 26, with this cast;
Mary Brand . . . Mrs. Cjfril Norman John Brand .... R. A. Roberts Col. Nicholas Decatur Joseph Brennan Louis Berthelot . . . Emmett C. King J. Fitzclarence Jones . [Albert Roberts Hercules John Watson
SheriflF Brown . . . . J. H. Ready Deputy Jim .... H. A. Morton Mrs. Violet Raymond
Florence Ashbrooke Lydia Brand . . . Gerome Edwardy Aunt Dinah . . . Polly Poland King
March 5, Jennie Yeamans was the star; "Poor Girls" was seen March 12. Henry Chanfrau March 19, in "Kit;" "Lady Win- dermere's Fan " March 16 ; "A Man Among Men " March 23 ; " Hoodman Blind " March 30, with Frederick de Belleville, as the star. " The Rising Generation " came May 7. The theatre was closed May 11 and 12, owing to the death of Mrs. Henry Miner. "The Diamond Breaker" was given May 14; "Midnight Alarm" May 21. The season closed May 26.
The next season began August 20 with " Derby Mascot " for the first time in this city. " Men and Women " was played Aug. 27 ; "The Limited Mail" Sept. 3. "Fantasma" Sept. 10; J. K. Emmet, Jr., Sept. 17, in "Fritz in a Madhouse; " "Silver King" Sept. 24; Florence Bindley Oct. i, in "The Captain's Mate; " "The Girl I Left Behind Me" Oct. 8; "A Ride for Life" Oct. 15; "Steve" Brodie appeared Oct. 22, in "On the Bowery;" "Struck Oil" was done with this cast Oct. 29 :
John Stofel, Al. H. Wilson ; Lizzie Stofel, Jane Stuart ; Mrs. Susan Stofel, Emma Maddern Stevens; Eben Skinner, William Herbert; Flynn, George M. Brennan; William Pearson, Milton Lipman. Hallen and Hart came Nov, 5 in " Later On ; " Primrose and West's minstrels Nov. 12; "Paul Kauvar" Nov. 19; "Rose-
184 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1896
dale" Nov. 26, with Joseph S. Haworth as Elliot Grey; Isabelle Evesson, Rosa Leigh ; Louis Foy, Bunberry Kobb ; Charles Abbott, Miles McKenna ; and Charles B. Hanford as Matthew Leigh. " Old Glory " was seen Dec. 3 ; " The Rising Generation " Dec. 10 ; "In the Tenderloin" Dec. 17; " Man without a Country" Dec. 24 ; Chauncey Olcott Dec. 3 1, in " The Irish Artist ; " " Darkest Russia " Jan. 7, 1895 ; Effie Ellsler Jan. 14, in " Doris ; " " Shaft No. 2." Jan. 21 ; " Power of the Press" Jan. 28; "On the Mississippi," Feb. 4.
Oliver Doud Byron was seen Feb. 11, in " Ups and Downs of Life ; " " Yon Yonson " came Feb. 18 ; " Rush City" Feb. 25 ; " On the Bowery " with Steve Brodie as the star, March 4 ; " Charley's Aunt " March 11 ; " Cross Roads of Life" March 18, with Edmund Collier as the star. "The Cotton King" came March 25, "Spider and the Fly" April i; "Friends" April 8; "Police Inspector" April 15; " Fallen Among Thieves " April 22, for the first time in America, with Andrew Robson, Edward Maynard, John Bonnelli, John Gourlay, Margaret Feeley, Lillian Lamson, Nina Freith, and Nellie Sheldon in the cast. Walter Kennedy the " strong man " first appeared on the stage as an actor April 29, in " Samson." " Special Delivery" came May 6; Mme. Janauschek appeared with Kate Claxton in " The Two Orphans " May 13 ; " Two Sisters " were seen May 20 ; Agnes Herndon, May 27, in " La Belle Marie ; " " Logan's Luck" was done June 3, first time on any stage. The season closed June 8.
The next season began Aug. 10, with Walter Lawrence in "Fabio Romani;" "The Engineer" was seen Aug. 19; "The Great Brooklyn Handicap " Aug. 26 ; " Span of Life " Sept. 2 ; "Captain Paul" Sept. 9; "White Rat" Sept. 16; "Land of the Living " Sept. 23 ; " Slaves of Gold " Sept. 30 ; " Humanity " Oct. 7 ; "Ride for Life," Oct. 14; "Struggle of Life," Oct. 21; "Sons of the Night " Oct. 28 ; " In a Big City " was seen Nov. 4, with "Bobby" Gayler as the star. Florence Bindley came Nov. 11, in "The Captain's Mate; " Oliver Doud Byron Nov. 18, in " Ups and Downs of Life ; " " Old Glory " Nov. 25 ; " The Man-of-War's-Man " Dec. 2; "Eight Bells "Dec. 9; "Galley Slave" Dec. 16; Joseph Callahan in " Faust " Dec. 23 ; " Human Hearts " (previously called " Logan's Luck") was done Nov. 30; "The Cotton King" Jan. 6, 1896. "A Romance of Coon Hollow" was produced Jan. 13, with Lizzie Evans as the star. " In sight of St. Paul's " came Jan. 20 ; " Down on the Suawanee River " Jan. 27 ; " Bonnie Scotland " Feb. 3; "On the Bowery" Feb. 10; "Saved from the Sea" Feb. 17; « Arm of the Law" Feb. 24; " Silver King" March 2 ; " Tornado" March 9; "A Trip to Chinatown" March 16; A. H. Sheldon retired from the business management of this theatre March 9, and Thomas W. Miner succeeded him on that date. "Darkest Russia" was seen March 23; Prof. Herrmann came March 30;
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" Lion's Heart " April 6, with Carl Haswin as the star. " The Trolley Party" came April 13; "The Diamond Breaker" April 20; "The White Slave" April 27; "Land of the Midnight Sun" May 4. " The World Against Her " May 1 1 ; and the season closed May 16.
The next season began Sept. 5, with " Saved from the Sea ; " "Sidewalks of New York" was seen Sept. 14; " Human Hearts" Sept. 21; "A Happy Little Home" Sept. 28; "Land of the Living" Oct. 5; " Hogan's Alley" Oct. 12; "The Great Train Robbery" Oct. 19; "A Temperance Town " Oct. 26; "The Great Northwest " Nov. 2 ; " Nihilists " Nov. 9, for the debut in this city of Theo Kremer the author. " Fatal Card " Nov. 16 ; " Turn of the Tide" Nov. 23, with Oliver Doud Byron as the star; " Down in Dixie " Nov. 30 ; " A Bowery Girl " Dec. 7 ; " When London Sleeps " Dec. 14; "Darkest America" Dec. 21; "Under the Polar Star" Dec. 28; " Fatal City " Jan. 4, 1897, for the first time on any stage with George C. Boniface, Sen. ; George M. Kidder, Geo. A. D. John- son ; Charles Charters, Lillian Harper, and Adelaide Fitz Allen in the cast. " The Power of the Press " was seen Jan. 11;" On the Bowery " Jan 18 ; " Sporting Duchess " Jan. 25 ; "A Night in New York" Feb. i, with Nelly McHenry as the star; "The Span of Life" came Feb. 8; " Midnight Bell" Feb. 15; " Eight Bells" Feb. 22 ; " Fallen Among Thieves " March i ; " A Boy Wanted " March 8; " Brother for Brother " March 1$ ; Maggie Cline in " On Broad- way " March 22 ; Edward Harrigan, March 29, in " Old Lavender ; " "Superba" April 5; "Hogan's Alley," April 12; and the season closed April 17.
The next season began Aug. 16, 1897, with A. H. Sheldon as lessee and manager. " Fabio Romani " was the opening attraction, with Aiden Benedict in the title r61e. " Side Tracked " was done Aug, 23 ; " New York Day by Day " Ai^g. 30 ; " The Indian " Sept. 6, with Al Lipman as the star. " The Great Train Robbery " came Sept. 13; Katie Emmett Sept. 20 in "Waifs of New York;" " McFadden's Row of Flats " Sept. 27 ; " The Sidewalks of New York " Oct. 4 ; " Coon Hollow " Oct. 11;" The Burglar " Oct. 18 ; Oliver Doud Byron Oct. 25 in " The Plunger " ; Lillian Lewis Nov. i in " For Liberty and Love." " Old Money Bags " Nov. 8 ; " Always on Time" Nov. 15 with this cast:
Dick Sturdy . . . . W. R. Walters Sidney Cuthbert . . Taylor Carroll Parson Dwight . . . . J. S. Stewart Jim Sawyer .... William Turner Larry Sullivan . . . . C. Jay Smith Jack Davis .... Mac M. Barnes
" Cherry Pickers " Nov. 22 ; "A Guilty Mother " Nov. 29 ; " Made- line of Fort Reno," with Adelaide Fitz Allen as the star, Dec. 6.
Ned Ballard . . . Daniel F. McCoy Ling Ling .... W. H. St. James Belle Cuthbert Laura Dacre St. James Miss Abigail Prince . Minnie Wilson Nell Anna Little
1 86 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE DsgS
Charles Leonard Fletcher was seen Dec. 13, in "Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde ; " a pantomime show Dec. 20 ; " The Fast Mail " Dec. 27 ; " Shannon of the Sixth" Jan. 3, 1898 ; "Heart of Chicago" Jan. 10; " Humanity " Jan. 17; "The Tornado" Jan. 24; W. S. Hart, Jan. 31 in " The Man with the Iron Mask ; " Leon and Adelaide Herrmann, magicians, Feb. 7; " A Parisian Romance," also " The Violin Maker of Cremona" Feb. 14, with Charles Fletcher as the star. "The Last Stroke" was given Feb. 21; "A Midnight Trust" Feb. 28; Rachel Renard in "Leah " March 7; "Tennessee's Pardner" March 14 ; " The Inside Track " March 2 1 ; the Indian actress Go-won-Go- Mohawk, came in a play, with her own name March 28 ; Creston Clarke April 4, in " The Last of His Race " by Creston Clarke :
Prince Okolski > Ivan Okolski | ' ' Father Antoine Pascal Nicolai KarachefF Doctor Dimitri . Vassali DromirofF Niclovitch . . Petroff .... Lucien de Veaujour Emile de la Fallaise
Creston Clarke
. John Carter
G. D. Parker
J. J. Sambrook
R. Burton
. P. S. Barratt
L. D. Wharton
. W. Percival
G. Eversleigh
Baron de Floriac . . . L. B. Grey
Baptiste W. Chessman
Pol C. Yorke
Clovis Alice Gale
Madelon Lucy Stone
Melanie de Beaulieu, Jessie M. Fisher Louise de St. Cyr . . Bessie Gattlin Comtesse de Champcey . Edith Gale Marie de Neuville . . Adelaide Prince
" The Westerner " April 11;" Cruiskeen Lawn " April 18 ; " Gettys- burg " April 25 ; Jessie Mae Hall appeared May 2, in " Princess of Patches " by Mark Swan ; " At Fort Bliss " May 9 ; " A Spy of Spain " May 17, by Willis Arden ; " A Union Soldier " May 23, by David Higgins. This was the old play of " Burr Oaks " with a new title. The " Cuban's Vendetta " came May 30 ; " Shadows of the Past," an adaptation of Mark Twain's " Tom Sawyer," June 6. The season closed June 11.
The next season began August 15, with "The Midnight Flood; " "Gettysburg" August 22; "The Light on the Point" Aug. 29; " McSorley's Twins " Sept. S ; " A Factory Waif " Sept. 12 ; "A Daughter of Cuba " Sept. 19, by Jean Mawson, " Killarney and the Rhine" Sept. 26; "Cuba's Vow" Oct. 3; "The Secret Enemy" Oct. 10; "Down on the Farm " Oct 17; "The Sleeping City," by Octavius Cohen, Oct. 24 with this cast :
Jack Morton . . Lou Morton . . Charles Creston . Bill Wattles . . Michael Mulcahey Fritz Dinkewinkle Sam Harris . . Doctor Grubb Jim
. Rogers Barker
.Lester A. Davis
Randolph Murray
George T. Meech
. James F. Casey
. Fred Mendoza
. J. B. Boardman
Frank A. Auburne
. Edward Hurly
The Whistling Comedian
Harry F. Winsman
Foxey E. F. Tabor
Slim George Flint
Ethel Baintree . . Lazette Du Brock Cora Creston . . Florence Courtney Widow Riley . . Maggie Le Clair Maggie Riley .... Belle Gold
I862D PALACE GARDEN 187
"A Celebrated Case " with Maja Spencer (May Nunez) as Madeline and Adrienne Oct. 31 ; "The Wheel of Fortune" was seen Nov. 7; "Tom Edison the Electrician " Nov. 14; "John Martin's Secret" Nov. 21 ; "Tempest Tossed" Nov. 28 ; "The Two Wanderers," by Wm. H. Rightmire, Dec. 5 ; "Under the Dome" Dec. 12; " Chain of Destiny " Dec. 19 ; a new version of " The Courier of Lyons." " Remember the Maine " was done Dec. 26 ; " When London Sleeps " Jan. 2, 1899; Jos. Callahan came in " Faust " Jan. 9 ; "Chattanoo- ga " Jan. 16 ; " The Shadow Detective " Jan. 23 ; " The Heart of Chi- cago " Jan. 30 ; " Knobs of Tennessee " Feb. 6 ; " Land of the Living " Feb. 13 ; " On the Wabash " Feb. 20 ; " The Dawn of Freedom," Feb. 27 ; "The Victorian Cross " March 6 ; " A High-born Lady " March 13; "The World Against Her" March 20; "Outcasts of a Great City " March 27 ; J. E. Toole, in " Rip Van Winkle " April 3 ; Murray and Mack in " Finnigan's 400 " April 10 ; " Kidnapped " April 17 ; " The Burglar " April 24 ; " An American Hero " May i ; " Police In- spector" May 8. The season closed May 13. The house reopened Sunday night, Aug. 6, 1899, under the management of Messrs. Adler, Edelstein, and Thomasch as a Hebrew theatre, and it con- tinues as such up to the present date.
PALACE GARDEN
A FAMOUS place of amusement forty-odd years ago was the " Palace Garden." It was situated on the north side of Fourteenth Street, between Sixth and Seventh avenues on the site now occupied by the 22d Regiment Armory, adjoining the lot in which the Fourteenth Street theatre is built. It was fitted up and opened July i, 1858, as a promenade garden. Miscellaneous con- certs were given nightly, and occasionally there was a display of fireworks. De, Forrest & Teesdale were proprietors. Thomas Baker had a large orchestra, and the establishment was popular in the summer months. Thomas Baker took his first benefit in America here Aug. 24. Carl Formes and several other singers appeared. During the summer months C. V. De Forrest was the manager, and concerts were given. Carl Bergman, Harvey Dod- worth, and G. F. Bristow were the musical directors. J. Van Am- burgh & Co's menagerie was on exhibition Nov. 21. The Holman Opera company commenced Aug. 27, i860.
Miscellaneous concerts and various entertainments were given during the season of 1860-61. From this building down to and including the Fourteenth Street theatre, was an open lot, running through to Fifteenth Street. Early in the summer of 1862, Mr. De Forrest leased the entire property for the purpose of converting it into a summer resort similar to the Cremorne Gardens, London
1 88 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisea
Commencing at the lot nearest to Sixth Avenue was a canvas top, beneath which a regular equestrian performance was given ; adjoining, to the west, was a fantastic edifice, called Floral Hall, furnished with trees, flowers, and shrubbery. The main garden itself was rich in flower-pots, fountains, statuary, pleasant walks, and tables and rustic chairs for the convenience of those who wished to revel in ices, creams, and refreshments, but no intoxicating drinks were permitted on the premises.
NIXON'S CREMORNE GARDENS
THE Garden was open at 7.30 every evening, and the enter- tainment commenced with a performance of about one and a half hours in the Palace of Music. This consisted of a pantomime, ballet, opera, or concert, a change being made every week. Then the visitor took a promenade in the Garden, and listened to the music of Baker's orchestra, or partook of some refreshments ; after about thirty minutes' concert, they repaired to Floral Hall, after which the equestrian performances of about one and one half hours took place. Frequently a brilliant display of fireworks was given at the close. The following is a copy of the opening programme:
Manager, James M. Nixon ; business manager, Col. T. AUston Brown.
A beautiful Chinese Pagoda adorns the centre, and the rear of the spacious area is ornamented with a magnificent Japanese tower scene ; beyond which is the Turkish Pavilion, under which will be given, every afternoon and evening, equestrian performances. First afternoon opening on Wednesday, June 9, 1862, and then every afternoon and evening, except Sunday, during the season. The miniature men. Com. Foote and Col. Small.
The musical department under the direction of Thomas Baker. The stage entertainments will consist of opera, ballet, and pantomime, for which the best artists in the country have been engaged. The opera will be led by Carlotta Patti. The ballet will be led by Isabel Cubas. In the operatic department are already engaged: Carlotta Patti, Sig. Sbriglia, Mme. Strakosch, Sig. Ardavani, and many others, under the direction of Sig. Debreuil. For the ballet, there will be, at present, Signorita Cubas, Sig. Ximines, Carolina Theleur. The Palace of Music will be open for evening performances at 7^ P. M., Mr. Baker leading a promenade concert. The opera and ballet will be given at 8 o'clock, after which the concerts in the Cremorne Gardens and equestrian performances in the Turkish Pavilion. Admission to Palace of Music, Cremorne Gardens, and Equestrian School, 25 cts. only; reserved armchairs in Palace of Music, 25 cts. extra; orchestra armchairs, 25 cts. extra.
Harvey Dodworth led the orchestra here Aug. 23. Several representatives of the Iroquois Indians gave exhibitions in dancing Aug. 30. Nixon & Kemp's Equestrian troupe appeared Oct. 25. James Melville and family, Rentz, Durand, Painter, Geo. Ross, Adelaide and Frank Nixon, G. W. Sergeant and Mons. Gregoire were the equestrians and acrobats, and the clowns were William Lake,
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Sig. Blitz, Mons. Frangois, and Tom Linton. Performances were given afternoon and evening. " Cinderella " was presented Nov. 10, by children. On Nov. 16, William Pastor, equestrian, and Emeline Loyal, equestrienne, appeared. For the benefit of W. H. Kemp, Nov. 23, Tony Pastor, "The American Clown," appeared. Prof. Starr with his party of living animals were seen Nov. 25, and the season terminated Nov. 27. Stage and equestrian performances combined were given, the Checini troupe of juvenile pantomimists and dancers appeared. Among the circus performers were Philo Nathans, Tony Pastor, and W. Donaldson, the black clown.
Mrs. T. B. Phelps rented this place for one week for a Horticul- tural Festival, May 9. There were addresses by Henry Ward Beecher, Rev. Dr. Tyng, Wendell Phillips, and W. H. Fry.
The Garden was closed on the approach of cold weather. It failed to pay. It was started too soon. If it was in operation now, probably it would be a money-making place of amusement during the summer months. M. C. Campbell reopened the Palace Music Hall Nov. 10, 1862, with a minstrel company, but business did not warrant him continuing after Dec. 6. Buckley's Serenaders ap- peared Dec. 22, and closed Jan. 3, 1863, and that was about the last entertainment given there. The Sanitary Commission erected buildings on this site in April, 1864, and held a fair there. The ground is now occupied by the Fourteenth Street Theatre and the 22d Regiment Armory.
NEW BOWERY THEATRE
UNTIL the year 1859, the Old Bowery Theatre had practically the East side of the city as a field entirely of its own. But in that year a formidable rival appeared in the shape of the New Bowery Theatre, which was opened Sept. 5, 1859, by Geo. L. Fox and James W. Lingard. Its exterior dimensions were 75 feet on the Bowery, 204 feet in depth and 100 feet on Elizabeth Street. The auditorium was capable of seating 2,500 persons. The stage was 85 feet deep and 50 wide at the proscenium. The house was situated between New Canal and Hester streets, two blocks north of the Old Bowery, and on the same side of the way. The entrance on the Bowery was through a colonnade, supported by Corinthian pillars of iron. A full view of the stage was to be had from almost every seat in the auditorium. The programme with which this theatre opened consisted of " The Orange Girl of Venice " and " The Four Lovers." The cast of " The Orange Girl of Venice " was:
Visconti Galliano . . . J. E. Nagle Jacopi Foscari . . Welsh Edwards Leonard Foscari . . . .J- Nunan
Guido Uberini . Vasquez Spadillo Eugenia Coletti .
J. J. McCloskey . Chas. K. Fox Cordelia Cappell
190 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C'SSo
Nicoletti G. L. Fox
Manuel Coletti .... D. Oakley
Genario James Dunn
Spoletti S. Bradshaw
Paulo M. B. Pike
Rugini Mr. Stanton
Odo W. Mitchell
Pietro Mr. Montgomery
Isabel Mrs. J. E. Nagle
Juanetta Kate Fisher
In " The Four Lovers," Asa Cushman acted Rithcraft, and Minnie Jackson was the Lauretto.
J. J. McCloskey remained here until the breaking out of the Civil War, when he enlisted and went South. The company, in addition to those seen in the above cast, included the following people : J. G. Hanley, James Pilgrim (dramatist), James Lingard, C. Wilkinson (who died at Worcester, Mass., March 2, 1888), Mrs. France, and others.
J. G. Hanley appeared Sept. 8, as Ben Bowling in " Ben the Boatswain." " Garibaldi, or the Invasion of Sardinia, " was acted for the first time on any stage Sept. 24. It ran until Oct. 6, when Boucicault's drama, " The Phantom," was done. " The Hunter Spy of Virginia, or the Ocean Martyr " was a new drama by Pilgrim, first acted Oct. 10. " New York and Brooklyn, or the Poor Sewing Girl," was produped Oct. 17. "The Man with the Iron Mask" was played Oct. 19, with J. E. Nagle as Gaston. " Stella Delorme, or the Comanche Chief," a dramatization by Pilgrim, was seen Oct. 24, when Mrs. W. G. Jones made her first appearance here, acting Ada McAlpine.
" Uncle Tom's Cabin " was done here Oct. 31, with J. W. Lingard as Uncle Tom, G. C. Howard as St. Clair, G. L. Fox as Phineas Fletcher, Mrs. G. C. Howard as Topsy, and Cordelia Howard as Eva. " Fast Women of the Modern Time, or Life in the City and Suburbs," was presented Nov. 14, when Fanny Herring made her first appearance in this theatre, acting seven characters. Mrs. W. G. Jones assumed six characters. Billy O'Neil first acted here Nov. 19 in " The Limerick Boy."
A. J. Neafie was seen Nov. 26, as Macbeth, Mrs. W. G. Jones as Lady Macbeth. Nov. 29 he acted in " Richard III. ; " Nov. 30, "The Corsican Brothers;" Dec. 5, in "Faust;" Dec. 10, in "Wil- liam Tell." ''''Harolde, or The Maniac's Leap," by Neafie, was first produced here Dec. 12. A. H. Purdy received a benefit Dec. 14. On Dec. 23 "The People's Lawyer," "Why Don't She Marry?" "Whirligig Hall," and "The Happy Man" made up the bill. " Pocahontas, or the Gentle Savage," was seen Dec. 24, with G. L. Fox as Powhatan, James Dunn as Capt. John Smith, Fanny Herring as Pocahontas. John Brougham's national drama, " The Miller of New Jersey," was done Dec. 28. Eph Horn and Charley White came Jan. 4, i860, and appeared between the pieces, giving "Old Bob Ridley " and Woman's Rights Lecture.
Geo. C. Boniface made his first appearance here Jan. 7, as Luke
1860] NEW BOWERY THEATRE 191
Fielding in " The Willow Copse," Mrs. W. G. Jones as Rose Field- ing. " Lord of the Isles " was played Jan. 9. " Halvei The Un- known," Jan. 13, with Boniface in the title r61e. Jan. 16 "The Man of the Red Mansion " had its first representation. " The Octoroon, or Life in Louisiana," with lone Burke as Paul, Geo. Boniface as Wah-no-tee, was given Jan. 23. J. J. Prior took a benefit Feb. i, and acted Macduff to Boniface's Macbeth. " The Octoroon " was also played. Lucille and Helen Western first appeared here Feb. 6, in " The Three Fast Men." Johnny Forbes, the trick drummer, made his New York debut on this occasion. On Feb. 13 Lucille acted "Jack Sheppard;" Feb. 14, "The French Spy;" Feb. 15 " Polly Jordan, the Vermont Girl's Visit to New York," by W. B. English, was produced ; Feb 16, " Actress of Padua " with Lucille as La Tisbe, Helen as Catarina; Feb. 18, "Jack Sheppard," Lucille as Jack; also " Wept-of-the-Wish-ton-Wish," Helen as Naramattah. " Wolfgang, or The Wrecker's Daughter," by John F. Poole, was presented Feb. 20.
A. J. Neafie appeared Feb. 27, acting Wi-com-i-ket in Conway's Indian drama of that name, written expressly for him. Mons. Deruth K. Goshon, the giant, was first seen here March i, as Cousin Joe in " The Rough Diamond." " The Dancing Feather, or Amateur Freebooters," a melodrama, was first played March 5. Geo. C. Bon- iface acted the Dane, and Mrs. W. G. Jones Queen Gertrude, in " Hamlet," March 9. C. W. Tayleure's " Horseshoe Robinson " was first seen here March 12. C. W. Taylor appeared in "Belphegor" March 15. J. G. Arnold made his first appearance in this city in three years, acting Jerry Clip in " The Widow's Victim" March 16. Mrs. M. A. Farren and her daughter, Fanny Fitz-Farren, appeared March 19, in " Love's Venom, or the Heart's Mysteries ; " March 22, "Lucrezia Borgia; " March 23, "The Wrecker's Daughter;" March 24, " Jane Shore ; " March 26, " Venetian, or the Bravo's Oath ; " March 29, "Pizarro;" and March 30, "The Queen and the Mechanic," with Mrs. Farren as Mary Tudor. Cordelia Howard and her parents reappeared April 2, in "Dred, or the Dismal Swamp;" April 3, "Ida May;" April 5, "Uncle Tom's Cabin." C. W. Taylor as Uncle Tom, G. C. Boniface as Geo. Harris. For the benefit of Cordelia Howard, April 6, "Uncle Tom's Cabin," "Oliver Twist," — Mrs. G. C. Howard as Nancy Sikes, Cordelia Howard as Oliver Twist, G. C. Boniface as Bill Sikes, — and the trick pantomime " Magic Trumpet " formed the bill. The Howards terminated their engagement April 7, with "Little Katy, The Hot Corn Girl." A complimentary benefit was tendered Fox & Lingard, April II. In the afternoon "Uncle Tom's Cabin" and "Mother Goose " were given, and the evening bill was made up of " The Page of History; " "Betsy Baker," — J. M. Ward as Crummy, and Chas. Hale as Marmaduke Mouser, — the Denier Brothers in an act ; Anna
192 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1860
France with song ; " Fortune's Frolic," Harry Pearson as Robin Roughhead ; a dance by Minnie Jackson ; the farce, " Slasher and Crasher ; " song by J. A. Herman ; ballad by Kate Leslie ; the Ethio- pian farce, " Negro Blunders ; " and " The Bride of the Old Frontier." The testimonial was continued the following night, and the pro- gramme was: "The Page of History," "Lola Montez," "The Veteran and his Progeny," "The Maid of Munster," "Box and Cox," and "Tom Cringle's Log." In "Lola Montez," Caroline Chapman acted Katherine Kloper, Robert Johnston, Philip Gar- bois, in " The Veteran." Emily Mestayer was the Kate O'Brien, and C. W. Clarke the Charles, in " The Maid of Munster." Cordelia Howard reappeared April 13, in " Old and Young," in which she assumed three characters, and danced a hornpipe. " Robin Hood, the Bold Outlaw," was first acted April 16. " The Track in the Snow," April 28. "Harry Blake, the Man that Travels on his Muscle," dramatized by G. L. Aiken, had its first hearing May 7. " King of the Commons " with J. W. Wallack, Jr., as King James, and " Grand- father Whitehead " were played May 18, with Geo. Jamison in the title r61e.
J. W. Wallack Jr., and Mr. and Mrs. F. B. Conway appeared May 21, in "Othello":
Othello .... J. W. Wallack, Jr.
lago F. B. Conway
Cassio J. G. Hanley
Roderigo G. L. Fox
May 22, " Macbeth " was given with Geo. Boniface as Banquo, Wallack as Macbeth, Conway as Macduff, and Mrs. Conway as Lady Macbeth. May 24, " London Assurance," was seen, with Conway as Sir Harcourt, Wallack as Dazzle, Boniface as Charles, Mrs. Conway as Lady Gay, and Mrs. W. G. Jones as Grace; May 25, "Romeo and Juliet," Wallack as Romeo, Conway as Mercutio, and Mrs. W. G. Jones as Juliet ; May 26, " Richard III.;" May 28, "Julius Caesar," Conway as Brutus, Wallack as Cassius, Boniface as Marc Antony, Mrs. Conway as Portia, and Kate Fisher as Calphurnia; May 29, " King of the Commons " and "Pizarro," Conway as Rolla in the latter play; May 31, " Ingomar," Conway as Ingomar; also, "Black Eyed Susan," with Wallack as William. For their farewell appearance, June 2, Wallack and the Conways played in " William Tell," " The Jealous Wife," and " El Hyder." " New York in i860, or a Hit at the Times," by W. Petrie, was seen for the first time June 18.
The season closed July 7, but a summer term began July 16, with Edward Eddy as the star. The company was Geo. C. Boniface, J. B. Howe, G. L. Fox, C. K. Fox, J. W. Lingard, Asa Cushman, J. Nunan, Harry Hotto, Wm. Marden, J. J. McCloskey, J. Newman,
|
Duke . . . |
. . . J. W. Lingard |
|
Desdemona . |
. . Mrs. W. G. Jones |
|
Emelia . . . |
. Mrs. F. B. Conway |
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Pierre de Renais . . . . E. Eddy
Henricois G. L. Fox
Louise de Renais . Mrs. W. G. Jones
Mitchell, Wright, Mrs. W. G. Jones, Mrs. Henry, Josephine Henry, Fanny Herring, Lillie Marden (afterwards Mrs. Charles Wilkinson) and Minnie Jackson. Mr. Eddy remained two months, during which time he was seen in a round of his favorite characters. He played " Macbeth " July 16, and Fanny Herring appeared the same night as Sally Scraggs, in " Sketches in India," and Charles K. Fox as Gregory Thimblewell in " State Secrets." July 30, a new drama, " The Artisan of Lyons," was produced, with this cast :
Catherine de Marley . Fanny Herring
Valazy J. B. Howe
Count De Vandome ... J. Nunan
Aug. 24, Lee's tragedy of " Alexander the Great," was presented. The principal attractions of the season were the melodramas for Mrs. W. G. Jones, Geo. C. Boniface, and Mr. Howe, and farces and pantomime for G. L. and C. K. Fox and Fanny Herring. " The Cataract of the Ganges" was acted Jan. 5, 1861. Spalding & Rogers' circus troupe was added to the programme Jan. 7. F. S. Chanfrau appeared Jan. 21, in " The Mysteries and Miseries of New York." Feb. 4, the pantomime, " Harlequin Jack," was seen. Prof. J. H. Anderson, the " Wizard of the North," acted Rob Roy March 4. He was assisted by his three daughters — Eliza, Flora, and Louisa Anderson. " The Cock of the Walk " was produced March 1 1 ; " Owlet, or the Royal Highwayman," March 18 ; Cordelia Howard and her parents appeared May 20, in " Ten Nights in a Barroom." Chanfrau returned June 1 7, as Mose in " A Glance at New York." Geo. L. Fox, who left with his regiment for the war, April 22, re- turned in July, and again appeared.
There was no material change of any kind in the company or the staff of the theatre during the season of 1861-62. G. L. Fox and J. W. Lingard were again the managers, but before the season closed their business connections were dissolved. The opening night was July 15, 1861, and the bill consisted of "The Pirates of the Savannah," " Hunting a Turtle," and a tight-rope dance by John Denier. Aug. 12 C. W. Clarke appeared, and during an engagement of twelve nights played in the dramas of "John Paulding," " Charlotte Temple," " The Lime Kiln Man," and others, supported by Mrs. W. G. Jones, George C. Boniface, J. Nunan, G . A. Lingard, James Dunn, G. L. Fox, and Fanny Herring.
Chas. Gayler's military drama " Bull Run, or the Sacking of Fair- fax Court House," was presented Aug. 15, with this cast :
UNION
Lieut. G. L. Fox of the 8th, C. K. Fox Hank Bunlcer . . Geo. C. Boniface
Gen. McDowell J. Nunan
Rolf Ironsides .... G. L. Fox
VOL. n. — 13
Jupiter Geo. Beane
Col. Corcoran .... Bradshaw
Brownell Johnson
Col. Ellsworth . . . . M. B. Pike
194 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [isea
SECESSIONISTS
Beauregard Ferden
Gen. Bunhatn .... W. Harden
Sergt. Bigelow Wright
Maj. Ebleigh Pyne
Col. Tompkins Magrath
Jackson Samuel
Mrs. Jackson . . . Miss Hathaway Juno Louisa Eldridge
The Eighth Regiment drum corps was engaged to appear in " Bull Run," which had an uninterrupted run of four weeks, and was frequently revived during the season. James Dunn appeared Sept. 30, as Frederick in " No." Oct. 7, Mr. Eddy returned, and at the close of his engagement with Fox & Lingard, leased the theatre for six nights, during which he played " Jack Cade," " Norman Leslie," " Robert Macaire," " Pizzaro," " The Happy Man," and other char- acters. The theatre was closed from Oct. 28 until Nov. 2, when a spectacular drama, by Charles Gayler, entitled " Hatteras Inlet, or Our Naval Victories," was presented. This was followed by " Fast Women of Modern Times," " A Sword of Honor, or a Father's Legacy," and " Mary Price."
Dec. 9, Mr. and Mrs. Jas. W. Wallack, Jr. and E. L. Davenport began an engagement that lasted until Dec. 21, during which time they played in " Othello," — Davenport as the Moor, Mr. Wallack, lago; Mrs. Wallack, Emilia,and Mrs. W. G. Jones, IDesdemona,— " Macbeth," " Hamlet," and " Richard III." Dec. 13 they appeared in " Julius Caesar," with Davenport as Brutus, Wallack as Cassius, Boniface, Marc Antony, and Mrs. Wallack as Portia. " Damon and Pythias," " Black Eyed Susan," " William Tell," " Douglas," and " Brutus, or the Fall of Tarquin," were also played during this engagement.
C. W. Clarke appeared Jan. 13, 1862, as Adolph Hudson in " The Last Nail, or the Drunkard's Vision," when Annie Hathaway acted Patty, and Louisa Browne, the Dancing Fairy. Jan. 15 "The Old Folks at Home" was presented. Jan. 16 " Eustache Baudin," was seen, with C. W. Clarke in the title r61e. Robert Jones' drama, " Scotto, or the Scout and the Spy," was first acted Jan. 20. A bene- fit was tendered to Capt. Robert Johnston, the popular actor, Jan. 22, previous to his return to the seat of war. The programme was " The Iron Mask," R. Johnston as Gaston ; John Mulligan and Andy J. Leavitt did a negro sketch ; the drama " Rafaelle," and the farce " Rais- ing the Wind." " The Seven Escapes of Adelaide of Dresden " was given Jan. 27, also a medley duet and double cracovienne by Geo. L. Fox and Fanny Herring ; followed by " G. L. Fox worried by Geo. Boniface." « Dominique the Deserter," " Cherry and Fair Star," (first time in this theatre), and " The Seven Escapes," formed the bill Feb. i. " Mabel, or the Child of the Battle Field," was first seen Feb. 4.
Fox and Lingard took a benefit Feb. 5, when "Fox Worried by
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Boniface," "Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady," " Cherry and Fair Star," "Boots at the Swan," and "The Young Widow" made up the programme. Harry Pearson and James W. Collier appeared in " Boots at the Swan," and A. H. Davenport and Fanny Browne in " The Young Widow." Geo. C. Boniface and G. L. Fox were seen as Robert Macaire and Jacques Strop. Feb. 7 G. L. Fox acted Paddy Murphy in " The Happy Man ;" Feb. 17 " The Capture of Fort Don- elson," by Harry Seymour, was played for the first time Feb. 22. " Uncle Tom's Cabin," was revived Feb. 26, with James Lingard as Uncle Tom, S. Bradshaw (first time) as Tom Loker, Fanny Herring as Topsy, Fanny Beane as Eva, G. L. Fox as Deacon Perry, and C. K. Fox as Gumption Cute. On March 13, the burlesque, "Co-lean Borne " was produced with Fanny Herring as Miles, Nunan as Danny Mann, G. L. Fox as Eily. Fox and Lingard dissolved partnership March 22, and the latter gentleman became sole lessee of the house. Fox acted Solon Shingle in " The People's Lawyer," March 26, and retired March 29. Sam Ryan and Kate Denin Ryan appeared here March 31, in "The Hidden Hand," and "The New Footman." "The Fire Raiser, or the Prophet of the Moor," was first acted April 5. For S. Bradshaw's benefit, April 9, George Lingard appeared as Richard in " Vision of the Dead." W. Petrie had a benefit April 11, when Edward Lamb, Harry Seymour, James Dunn, J. J. Prior, and Rachel Denvil were seen. E. Eddy began an engagement April 14, in a play written for him by T. B. de Walden, entitled "The Man of Destiny," which had this cast :
Joseph Faveau E. Eddy
Anatole Decoomer .... J. Nunan Flageolet S. Ryan
Marie Mrs. W. G. Jones
Diana Kate Denin Ryan
"Faustus" was played April 21, with Eddy as Mephistopheles. An afternoon and evening performance took place April 25, for the benefit of James W. Lingard. The programme was : Afternoon — "Cramond Brig," Prof. J. H. Anderson as Jock Howieson, and Miss L. S. Anderson as Marion ; accordeon solo by Prof. J. Jacobs, his first appearance in seven years ; dance by Louisa Browne, ballad by S. C. Campbell, comic song by Tony Pastor ; " Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady," Harry Parson as Ruy Gomez ; song by James Dunn ; negro sketch, " Young Scamps," by Bob Hart, Lew Sim- mons, and Master Tommy, concluding with "The Villagers." In the evening the bill was, " La Tour De Nesle," Eddy as Capt. Buridan, Mrs. Farren as Margaret of Burgundy; dance by Fanny Beane, song by Lillie Eldridge, the nautical drama, " Anchor of Hope," Harry Seymour as Topreef ; Eph Horn with his Woman's Rights lecture, T. J. Peel, jig, accompanied on the banjo by Frank Converse, dance by Galetti and Mons. Tophoff", and concluded with " The Young Widow." Joseph E. Nagle as Mandeville, Geo. C.
196 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1862
Boniface as Splash, Mrs. J. J. Prior as Aurelia and Mrs. J. E. Nagle as Lucy. On May 10 Eddy acted Damon, to Boniface's Pythias, in "Damon and Pythias," Paddy Murphy, in "The Happy Man," and Casper in " Der Freischiitz." N. B. Clarke's original drama " Dare Devii Pete, or the Death of Tecumseh " was first acted May 12, with Eddy in the title r61e ; Geo. C. Boniface was Tecumseh, and Mrs. W. G. Jones, Kate Lane. May 14 Eddy played Claude Mel- notte, in " The Lady of Lyons," and Looney McTwolter, in " The Army Review ;" May 17 "Zanthe," and "Jack Sheppard " formed the bill. Louisa Browne danced between the pieces. Mrs. M. A. Farren appeared May 26, as did Tommy Peel the jig dancer, with Frank B. Converse on the banjo.
" Coriolanus," was first seen in this theatre May 30, with Eddy as Caius Marcius Coriolanus, Geo. Boniface as Tullus Aufidius, Mrs. M. A. Farren as Volumnia, Mrs. Howard Rogers as Virgilia. Mrs. Farren as Katharina, to Eddy's Petruchio, in " The Taming of the Shrew." Adah Isaacs Menken began an engagement June 9, assuming nine characters in " The Three Fast Women, or the Female Robinson Crusoes." In the minstrel scene she appeared on the " bones end ; " June 1 1 she was seen in " Joan of Arc," and " The French Spy;" June 12 she appeared as Sixteen String Jack, and in the burlesque, "Lola Montez." For her benefit, June 13, she acted in " The Whistler, or the Fate of the Lily of St. Leonard's," as Corinthian Tom in " Tom and Jerry," and Polly Crisp in " An Unprotected Female," in which she sang " The Captain with his Whiskers " and several French and Italian songs, in the tenor and soprano voice, also giving her imitations of Charlotte Cushman, Mme. Fabbri, Edwin Forrest, and Edwin Booth. On June 14 Menken personated five characters in " A Day in Paris," and acted Corinthian Tom in " Tom and Jerry ; " " Mazeppa " was produced June 16, with Menken as Mazeppa. For her benefit, June 20, in addition to " Mazeppa," she appeared in the fourth act of " The Three Fast Women," and the fifth act of " Richard III," with Harry Seymour as Richard, on horseback; Menken as Richmond. For her farewell benefit, June 27, she was seen as Mazeppa, and Jack Sheppard, on horseback. Her engagement terminated June 28, when, in addition to " Mazeppa," " The Happy Man " was played, with Thomas Donnelly as Paddy Murphy. The season closed July 5.
The next season opened with N. B. Clarke as stage manager, and Harvey Blessenherz as musical director. Edward Eddy presented July 14 " The Fighting Brothers of Rome," and " The Idiot of the Mountain ; " Thomas L. Donnelly appeared between the pieces, and sang Irish songs. For Eddy's benefit, Aug. i, Edward L. Tilton played Robert Emmet in the drama of that name. Mrs. M. A. Farren was seen as Margery, and John T. Raymond as Cousin Joe, in " The Rough Diamond." Mr. and Mrs. E. L.'Davenport appeared
1862: NEW BOWERY THEATRE 197
Aug. 4 in " Hamlet," " Othello " Aug. 5, " St. Marc " Aug. 6, 7, " The Lady of Lyons " Aug. 8, when Mrs. Alford appeared as Mme. Deschapelles, and in " Black Eyed Susan ; " Aug. 9 " Richard IH." Aug. II, 12, 13. " The Scalp Hunters " was produced Aug. 14, when Geo. C Boniface acted Jack Sheppard for the first time; Aug. 15, " Damon and Pythias." For Lingard's benefit, Isabel Cubas and her corps de ballet apppeared in a Spanish ballet. Edward Lamb acted Granby Gag, and Mollie Williams, Jennie Leatherlungs, in " Jenny Lind at Last," Aug. 16.
Mr. and Mrs. F. B. Conway were seen Aug. 18, in " Peep o' Day," for the first time in New York. " The Sea of Ice " was done Sept. 2. Fanny Denham appeared Sept. 6 as Caroline Morton in " Our Gal." "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was given Sept. 10 for George C. Ryer's benefit, when he acted Uncle Tom, Lillie Eldridge being the Topsy. Menken reappeared Sept. 15 in James Pilgrim's drama, " The Warrior Shepherd," acting a shepherd boy. " Eagle Eye " was produced Sept. 22, with Menken as Otahontas. Harry Pearson had a benefit Sept. 29, when Mrs. Cool White acted Margery, and Harry Pearson Cousin Joe, in " The Rough Diamond," followed by the quarrel scene from "Julius Caesar," Thos. W. Keene as Brutus and E. S. Kean as Cassius.
Mrs. W. G. Jones took her benefit Oct. 3, and presented " Outlaw of the Adriatic, or the Female Spy and the Chief of the Ten," fol- lowed by Fanny Beane with a Highland Fling, and a comic song by Thomas Donnelly, after which came the minstrel scene from the " Three Fast Women," followed by " The Wizard Skiff" and " Jack Sheppard." There were three Jacks during the piece. In the first act, Mrs. W. G. Jones ; second act, Fanny Denham ; third act, Geo. C. Boniface. The performance was over at quarter to two A.M. Oct. 6 the Webb Sisters — Emma and Ada — made their debut here, Emma appearing as Parthenia in " Ingomar," and Ada in the farce "In and Out of Place," in which she sustained five characters, sang four songs, and danced a jig. " Raymond and Agnes " was the afterpiece. Ada Webb retired from the stage several years ago, marrying William Conner, who was once proprietor of the St. James Hotel, this city. Oct. 7 " Orphan of Dowray, or the Soldier's Trials," " Actress of All Work," and " Wizard Skiff " were acted ; Oct. 8 " Bride of Lammermoor " was presented, with Emma Webb as Lucy Ashton, " The Manager's Daughter," followed with Ada in five characters, and the farce " Milly ; " Oct. 9, Emma as Juliana in " The Honeymoon," Ada in " In and Out of Place," and the drama entitled "Incendiary;" Oct. 10, Emma as Smike, in "Nicholas Nickleby," to G. C. Boniface's Mantilini, and the first appearance of Miss M. Clare as Kate Nickleby. Ada Webb acted Mrs. Hardress Cregan, and Thomas Donnelly Myles-na-Coppaleen, in the farce of " The Colleen Bawn ; " Ada Webb also played six
198 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsea
characters in the protean farce, " A Day Too Late." " The Irish Doctor " was the closing farce. " Kitty, or Out of the Street," was a drama written for the Webb Sisters by Charles Gayler, and acted for the first time Oct. 13. " Jocrisse the Juggler," with Geo, Boniface in the title r61e, and " The Irish Doctor " made up the programme. Miss E. James, danseuse, made her d^but Oct. 17 in a national medley dance. The Webb Sisters, closed Oct. 18, when four pieces were offered, viz. : the protean farce, " Four in One," with Emma in four characters ; the burletta, " Woman's Whims," with Ada in five characters ; " The Blacksmith of Antwerp ; " and the nautical drama " Ben Bolt."
Oct. 20, the oriental spectacular drama entitled " The Armorer of Tyre " was produced, with Geo. Boniface as Gio ; the burlesque, " Beauty and the Beast," followed, with Fanny Denham as Beauty; and " The Limerick Boy " finished the bill. The performance was over at half-past twelve o'clock. Oct. 22 " Walter Brand, or the Mendicant of St. Paul's " was seen here for the first time ; Oct. 23 " The Three Guardsmen," was presented, with Boniface as D'Arta- gnan. Saturday night, Oct. 25, there were four pieces, as follows: the three act drama " Nautical Jack ; " Rosa Cerito, Parisian dan- seuse ; first and second tableaux of " The Sea of Ice ; " Irish songs, by Thos. L. Donnelly; "Robert Macaire;" and the comic drama "One Glass More." The historical drama, written expressly for this house by G. L. Aiken, entitled " Claude Duval," was first acted Oct. 27, Boniface as Claude Duval. The farce of " Our Girl " was the afterpiece, in which Fanny Denham acted Caroline Morton and sang " Annie Laurie " and " My Johnny was a Shoemaker." The melodrama, " The Monk, the Mask, and the Murderer " was given in addition to " Claude Duval " Nov. 3. " The Idiot of the Moun- tain " and the French drama " Halvei the Unknown " were acted for the first time Nov. 5. " Zincali's Revenge," " The Flying Dutch- man," and " The Irish Tutor " were played Nov. 6. Another half- past twelve o'clock bill was that of Nov. 7, — " The Sea of Ice," " The French Spy," and, for the first time here, " The Bath Road." A pictorial advertising curtain, illustrating all professions and trades, was shown for the first time Nov. 7. " Blueskin," a new drama by John F. Poole, was first acted Nov. 8. Geo. Boniface played Jack Sheppard ; J. W. Lingard, Blueskin; J. Nunan, Jonathan Wild; Mrs. W. G. Jones, Edgeworth Bess. Nov. 10 Theodore Edward Hook's drama, " The Hungarian Chief, or the Heroine of Mootgatz," was given in addition to " Blueskin." " The Death Plank," a nautical drama by G. A. Somerset, was first acted Nov. 17. Julia Christine (afterwards Mrs. Harry Miner) commenced an engagement, dancing between the pieces. The spectacular drama, " The Naiad Queen," rewritten by Joseph C. Foster, was first acted Nov. 24, and cast as follows :
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Colman D. Oakley
Rodolph W. Stanton
Farcuas J. Winter
Grimalkine Page
Baron Lanagan
Lady Una Mrs. Boniface
Flavia Louisa Eldridge
Cora Shell Miss Clare
Count Rupert .... Geo. Boniface
Rinaldo T. Donnelly
Winkleman G. Lingard
Schnapps Geo. Brooks
Amphibio .... Hernandez Foster
Lurline Mrs. W. G. Jones
Coraline .... Fanny Denham
Ibex Miss Adair
Bridget Miss Hathaway
" Knights of the Mist, or Jack Sheppard from His Cradle to His Grave," was acted Nov. 29. John F. Poole's dramatization, " The Scourge of Damascus," was first seen Dec. i. Tony Denier, the inimitable clown, appeared Dec. 8 in Joseph C. Foster's comic pantomime, " Harlequin Jack Sheppard, or All Right, My Covey." It was cast as follows : Jack Sheppard (afterwards Clown), Tony Denier; Jonathan Wild (afterwards Sprite), Hernandez Foster; Thames Darrell (afterwards Harlequin), W. Stanton; Winny Wood (afterwards Columbine), Julia Christine ; Joe Blueskin (afterwards Pantaloon), George Brooks.
Anthony (familiarly known as Tony) Denier is one of the oldest living representatives of the pantomimic art in America, and has been connected with the stage in an active and managerial capacity for more than half a century. Mr. Denier is a resident of Chicago, has lived in that city since 1876, and, aside from his profession, is known in the community as one of the few representatives of the stage who have devoted the results of theatrical enterprise to the substantial growth of the city. Endowed with a reputation that is national in his peculiar line, he also enjoys the distinction of being one of the richest retired actors in the West, and his varied career leading up to this histrionic and business success possesses many points of general interest. He travelled with the Ravel company for several years, and in 1855 went to England, and for two years played at European theatres. Returning to America in 186 1, he ap- peared in a star part at the Cremorne Garden, this city. At the Old Bowery Theatre, he met George L. Fox, and got up several panto- mimes with him. He then went to Barnum's Museum, and in 1866 removed to St. Louis, where he remained a year, engaged in manag- ing the spectacular play of " The Black Crook." He made his first appearance in Chicago at McVicker's Theatre, in 1867. Returning to this city, he and Mr. Fox constructed the great novelty of "Humpty Dumpty," which was first presented at the Olympic Theatre, on March 10, 1868. In July Mr. Denier went to Cleveland, and with John Ellsler organized a pantomime company, with which he travelled two years. He managed various enterprises until 1876, took " Grimaldi " on the road for two years, and, later, Charles W. Ravel, the clown. During these years he played not only in his own specidties of pantomime, but also, at Albany, under his own man-
200 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cises
ageraent of the Capital Theatre, took part in " Uncle Tom's Cabin," " The Octoroon," " Rob Roy," and appeared as the demon and other characters in spectacular and comic representations. After organizing a company for "Jack and Jill" in California, in 1876, Mr. Denier went to Chicago and began a permanent managerial career. Here he formed a partnership with J. H. Haverly, and was manager of the old Adelphi Theatre for one year. He then leased Wood's Museum, which was destroyed by fire in October, 1877. He purchased a residence at Englewood, but in 1876 returned to Chicago, and for three years managed a pantomime combination with George H. Adams, the clown. When that engagement ter- minated, Mr. Denier decided to take up a permanent residence at Chicago, and, having accumulated a fortune, set about its judicious investment. His shrewd business capacity made these ventures exceedingly profitable, and he now owns nineteen pieces of fine improved property and a large amount of unimproved real estate in that city. Tony Denier was married on Jan. 24, 1861, to Mile. Auriol, the danseuse, and niece of the noted French clown of that name. Mrs. Denier died in Chicago, June 6, 1899. As a panto- mimist Mr. Denier took rank with any in the country, and as a gymnast he had few superiors.
Wm. McFarland made his debut at this theatre in " The Stran- ger " Dec. 9, it being his first appearance in New York in eighteen years. " Robert Emmet " was also played, with Mr. McFar- land in the title r61e, and the first appearance on the stage of a young lady billed as Mary Curran, also occurred. Wm. McFarland was found dead in the County Jail at Minneapolis, Minn. Jan. 31, 1888. He was an old actor, and had supported Macready, the elder Booth, Edwin Adams, and Edwin Forrest. He had been confined in jail for intemperance. N. B. Clarke took a benefit Dec. 20, when five plays were acted, and the performance was over at 12.15. The entertainment Was as follows : " The Wraith of the Lake, or Brownie
of the Brig; " the drama "The King, the D ,and the Deserter,"
followed by the burlesque of " Othello," by Frank Brower and Eph Horn, scenes from " Harlequin Jack Sheppard," and the farce " The Illustrious Stranger." " Ivanhoe " was acted for the first time here Dec. 22. Tony Denier reappeared in the pantomime "Harlequin Jack Sheppard." Tony played Jack Sheppard, and Julia Christine, Winny Wood. Dec. 3 1 Tony Denier produced his Chinese pantomime, "Kim Ka." Jan. 6, 1863, Mons. Marzetti, Mme. Marzetti, and Mons. Tophoff began an engagement in "Jocko, or the Brazihan Ape." Jan. 12 was the first night of Harry Sey- mour's dramatization of Hugo's " Les Miserables," entitled " Jean Valjean," with Geo. C. Boniface in the title r61e. "The Two Drovers" and "The Dumb Belle" were also performed, and the performance was over at 12.30. Joseph C. Foster took his benefit
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Jan. i6, and his drama of " Bob Covey, the Newgate Jester, or the Daring Housebreaker of 1798," was seen for the first time, cast as follows :
Norman Fitzhazard Stephen Stoneheart Dr. Thurston . . Bob Covey . . Robt. Kidman Martin Filewood .
G. C. Boniface M. Lanagan . D. Oakley Geo. Brooks . P. Connelly . J. Winter
Tim Meagles .... T. Donnelly Miles the Beylock . Hernandez Foster Dick the Tramper . . Frank Foster
Drag J. Nunan
Eaton Wm. Marden
Emily .... Mrs. W. G. Jones
Jan. 17 the bill offered was " Bob Covey, or Harlequin Jack Shep- pard," cast as follows :
Industry .... Mrs. W. G. Jones Knowledge . . . Mrs. Geo. Boniface
Idleness Miss Hathaway
Ignorance .... Louisa Eldridge Jack Sheppard, afterwards Clown
Tony Denier Thames Darrel, afterwards Har- lequin W. Stanton
Joe Blueskin, afterwards Panta- loon Geo. Brooks
Jonathan Wild, afterwards Sprite
Hernandez Foster Winny Wood, afterwards Colum- bine Julia Christine
Owen Wood .... M. Lanagan Sir Roland Trenchard . . G. Lingard
Mendez J. Winter
Mrs. Wood ... T. L. Donnelly Edgeworth Bess .... Miss Adair
" Olympia, or the Brigands of Alrizi " was the next production, with this cast : Olympia Cigniani, Mrs. W. G. Jones ; Spalatro, J. Nunan ; Salvator Rosa, W. Marden ; Corney Brady, T. L. Donnelly ; Tommaso, P. Connelly ; Bianca, Miss Adair ; and Glanina, Mrs. Boni- face. This was followed by the farce " Hide and Seek " : Quake, Mr. Lanagan ; Simon, George Brooks ; Charles, J. Winter ; Rose, Miss Hathaway; Lucretia, Mrs. Boniface; Sophia, Miss Denham. The engagement of Geo. C. Boniface for three years at this house, as leading man, terminated with a complimentary benefit Jan. 24, when the following bill was presented : the four act play, " Retribu- tion; " the petite comedy, " Married Rake ; " dance by Julia Chris- tine; first act of "Robert Macaire;" and the comic drama "The Sky Rocket."
Edward Eddy began an engagement Jan. 26, 1863, as Myles-na- Coppaleen, in " The Colleen Bawn," with Fanny Denham as Anne Chute and Mrs. W. G. Jones as Eily O'Connor. The burletta by John F. Poole, called " The Twenty-seventh Street Ghost," was also acted for the first time. Frank Brower, the old minstrel performer, had a benefit Jan. 30, when the programme consisted of " The Col- leen Bawn," an olio by Dan Bryant, Little Mack, RoUin Howard, G. W. H. Griffin, and W. W. Newcomb, followed by the negro extrav- aganza, " The Virginny Mummy," with Frank Brower as Ginger Blue, and " The Twenty-seventh Street Gho^t." " The Last Days of Pom- peii " was produced Feb. 7, with Mr. Eddy as Arbaces. Mr. Eddy
202 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1863
closed Feb. 14, 1863, with "Pizarro, or the Death of Rolla," cast thus:
Rolla E. Eddy
Pizarro J. Nunan
Alonzo W. Harden
Cora Miss Hathaway
Elvira .... Mrs. W. G. Jones
Atalba N. B. Clarke
Blind Man D. Oakley
Boy Lillie Eldridge
High Priest .... G. Lingard
The nautical drama " Paul Jones " followed, with this cast :
Griffith Geo. Lingard
Kate Plowden . . Mrs. W. G. Jones Cecelia .... Mrs. Geo. Boniface Irish Woman . . . Thos. Donnelly
Long Tom Coffin .... E. Eddy
The Pilot J. Nunan
Barnstable Marden
Sergt. Drill Geo. Brooks
Col. Hervaro . . . . M. Lanagan
This was succeeded by "The Happy Man," Eddy as Paddy Murphy, with the songs, "The True Born Irishman," and "The Bold Soldier Boy ; " and " Warlock of the Glen," with Fanny Beane as Adelbert, finished the night's bill. Geo. C. Boniface reappeared Feb. 16, in " The Idiot of the Mountain " and " Yankee Jack," and Tony Denier acted in the pantomime, " Kim Ka."
Tony Denier took a benefit Feb. 27, when he offered : " Hand- some Jack ; " trapeze act by the Delevanta Brothers ; " Michael Earle, the Maniac Lover," with Wm. McFarland as the hero ; James Mel- ville and his children in acrobatic performances ; " The Magic Flute," Tony as the Clown ; after which came the carnival scene from " Gus- tavus III." and the drama " Sky Rockets." " Pauvrette " was first seen here Feb. 28, with Boniface as Bernard. John F. Poole took a benefit March 6, when he offered a bill which began with " East Lynne ; " Charley White and Thos. G. Riggs in the sketch " Pilgrim Fathers ; " H. W. Penny, the gymnast ; trial scene from " The Mer- chant of Venice ; " followed by an olio introducing Frances Le Roy in a medley, Tony Denier with a comic dance on stilts, Thomas Donnelly, comic songs, Charles Gardner, song and dance; "Hop Lite Loo," the Foster Brothers, acrobatic act, Chas. E. Dobson, banjo solo, and Caroline Edgal in a dance, followed by the farce, " The Dry Goods Clerks," Master Gibbs in a song and dance, the protean farce " In and Out of Place," with Fanny Denham in five characters, and finished with " No Irish Need Apply." James W. Lin- gard, for his benefit, March 13, presented " Laugh When You Can," " The Colleen Bawn," " Binks the Bagman," " Der Freischutz," and an olio by Frank Brower, Cool White, J. W. Glenn, Charley Fox, C. Henry, and Nelse Seymour of Wood's minstrels. " The Chevalier de Maison Rouge, or the Man of the Red Mansion," was played March 18. Edward Eddy played Damon in "Damon and Pythias," for Geo. Lingard's benefit, March 31. Fanny Denham had her benefit April 3, when the following was offered : "The Greek's Revenge," dance by Little Amelia, the farce of Jenny Lind, fiutina .solo by
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R. E. Clarke of Buckley's serenaders, " The Dumb Girl of Genoa," J. H. Budworth in negro acts, " B B, or the Benicia Boy," and " Jack Sheppard," with Mrs. W. G. Jones, Fanny Denham, and Miss Hath- away as Jack Sheppard (one act each). "Satanus, or the Spirit of Beauty," by Sterling Coyne, acted in Paris under the title of " La Diable Amoureux," was first seen here April 6; also "Delicate Ground," Helen Osgood making her first appearance on the stage in the latter piece as Pauline. E. Eddy commenced April 27 in the drama, "The Police Spy." "The Star Spangled Banner, or the Yankee Tar and Benevolent Jew," was first acted April 30. " Rienzi " was produced here May 5 , with this cast :
Cola de Rienzi E. Eddy
Randulto Stone
Luigi Geo. Brooks
Stephen Colonna ... J. Winter
Stephanello G. Lingard
Nina Mrs. W. G. Jones
Sir Walter J. Nunan
Benedette . . . Louisa Eldridge Cecco del Veechie . . N. B. Clarke
Angelo Mrs. Marden
Irene Mrs. Boniface
Adrian W. Marden
John D. Oakley
Teresa Miss Hathaway
Eddy acted Charles de Moor in "The Robbers," and Ben Bow- ling in " Ben the Boatswain " May 9. " La Tour de Nesle " was given, with the "Cribb" scene from "Tom and Jerry," May 11, in which Joe Coburn gave an exhibition of the " manly art of self-defence." " Richard III." was played May 23, with Eddy as Richard, Geo. Bon- iface as Richmond, and Kate Newton as Lady Anne. " Monte Cristo " was presented May 25, with Eddy as Edmund Dantes ; May 27 " The Three Guardsmen," Eddy as Athos ; May 29 " Jean Remy." "The Duke's Signal, or the Hunchback of Paris" ("The Duke's Motto"), for the first time in America, June i, with Boniface as Lagardere, Mrs. W. G. Jones as Blanche de Caylus, Kate Newton as Pepita, and Mrs. Geo. Boniface as Blanche de Nevers. A. M. Hernandez, Lizzie Whelply, Mons. Franklin, and Hugh Clarke ap- peared June S, for the benefit of R. S. Smith, the scenic artist. "O'Neal the Great" was played June 13. N. B. Clarke took his benefit June 26, and among the volunteers were Edward Eddy, Tony Pastor, A. H. Davenport, Geo. W. Thompson, Mickey Warren the jig dancer, J. M. Smith the bone player, and G. W. Fleming, banjoist. "The Colleen Bawn," "The Young Widow," "King and Free Booter," and " La Zingara " were acted. The season closed July 4.
A summer season opened July 6 with Campbell's minstrels. Ned Davis, Johnny Booker, and Geo. Gray were in the company. M. C. Campbell took a benefit July 24, when J. E. Greene made his first appearance in this city, and sang " The Mocking Bird " song.
The next season, of 1863-64, began Aug. i. J. W. Lingard con- tinued in the management, N. B. Clarke being stage manager. The company included Geo. C. Boniface, W. Marden, J. Nunan, Geo. Lingard, George Beane, George Brooks, Andrew Glassford, Mrs.
204 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1863
W. G. Jones, Kate Newton, and Emma Gardiner. The opening stars were E. Eddy and Mrs. M. A. Farren, who appeared in " Brutus, or the Fall of Tarquin," Eddy as Brutus, and Mrs. Farren as Tullia ; Aug. 3, 4, " Macbeth ; " Aug. 7, " Bertram ; " Aug. 11, 12, " Faustus;" Aug. 13, " Last Days of Pompeii; " Aug. 14, " Hamlet," Eddy as the Dane, Kate Newton as Ophelia; Aug. 15, " Richard III.," Mrs. Far- ren as the Queen, Eddy as Richard. Aug. 17, "The Temple of Death " was produced for the purpose of introducing the ghost illusion. " Macbeth " was given Aug. 22. Monk Lewis' super- natural drama, " The Spectre," was acted Aug. 26, with the ghost illusion. Aug. 27 " Hamlet " was done, with the illusion in ghost scenes. Aug. 29 " Vampire, or the Ghost of the Flood," another ghost drama, was seen, and Aug. 31 came another ghost drama, " Glencoe, or the Ghost of the Highlands." Sept. 4, for Mr. Eddy's benefit, twenty ghosts were introduced in the tableaux of "The Corsican Brothers." "Guy Fawkes" was done Sept. 7, 8. For Lingard's benefit, Sept. 11, "The Carpenter of Rouen," "The Jolly Cobbler," " Robert Macaire," " Love and Crockery," and " The Bedouin Arabs" constituted the entertainment.
Shakespeare's " Tempest " was acted Sept. 14, when all the char- acters but Prospero were given with the ghost effect. E. Eddy played Caliban for the first time, Boniface was Prospero, Kate Denin was Ariel. Sept. 21 another ghost drama, entitled "The Night Demon, or the Dream Spectre," was played for the first time in America. Mons. Verrecke, the trapeze performer, made his debut here on this occasion. Sept. 25 "The Wizard Priest," a ghost drama, was seen. " The Devil in the Bowery " was the title of a local ghost drama by John F. Poole, acted Sept. 28. A benefit was given to Thomas Hyer, the champion pugilist, Oct. 7, when Dan Bryant gave his stump speech, " Dat 's What 's de Matter." " The North Pole " and " The Devil in the Bowery " were also acted. " Eva, the Irish Princess," was played for the first time Oct. 12. Charles Collins, the comic singer, appeared in his act entitled " The Cure," and did a clog dance Oct. 16. For his benefit, Oct. 30, Boniface acted Mose in "A Glance at New York" for the first time. That same night he played The Stranger, Vapid, in " The Dramatist," and Paddy Murphy in "The Happy Man." Jackson Haines, the skater, appeared here Oct. 26, also at Christy's Minstrel Hall the same night. Oct. 31, first time in America, the new drama by Ed- ward Sterling, " The Jew of Southwark, or the Mendicant's Son." This was followed by "The Flying Dutchman," and Emma Gardiner did a dance between the pieces. John F. Poole's drama, " The Soap Fat Man," was given Nov. 7, with "The Angel of the Attic," "The Knights of the Mist," and " Robbers of the Heath." Leo Hudson made her first appearance in this city Nov. 9 in " Mazeppa," with this cast :
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The Castellan Seabert
Count Premislaus . . . W. Harden
ReedzlofF D. Oakley
Drolinsko Geo. Brooks
Mazeppa Leo Hudson
Thamar Geo. Lingard
Zemba P. Connelly
Olinska .... Mrs. W. G. Jones Agatha .... Louisa Eldridge
Zemila Kate Newton
Abder Kahn .... N. B. Clarke Oneiza . . . Mrs. Geo. Boniface
For N. B. Clarke's benefit, Nov. 17, in addition to "Mazeppa" (for the first time in New York), " The New York Pilot of 1792," was presented. Leo Hudson took her benefit Nov. 20, when " Mazeppa," " Warlock of the Glen," " My Fellow Clerk," and an olio made up the bill. For the week commencing Nov. 23, in addition to Leo Hudson, Edwin Blanchard and his trained dogs. Carlo and Bruin, appeared in "The Rover and His Dog." Blanchard had just returned from Europe after an absence of five years. Leo Hudson, for her benefit, Nov. 27, acted " Jack Sheppard " and " The French Spy ; " Blanch- ard appeared in " The Rover and His Dog," and Fred Lubin, the magician, gave his entertainment. Mr. Lubin retired from the pro- fession many years ago, and managed Clarendon Hall, this city. He died in this city March 3, 1900. " The Carrier and His Dog " and " Rookwood " were given Nov. 30. Dec. 4 Leo Hudson acted Narramattah in " Wept of the Wish- ton-Wish," and Geo. Davenport made his first appearance here, as Content Heathcote. Mr. Blanchard continued the star the following week, and appeared in " The Dumb Boy, or the Dogs of the Ferry," " The Carrier and his Dog," and " Felon's Death." " Dog of the Old Stone Cross, or the Vision of Death " was played for the first time Dec. 14. " Paul Clifford " was also acted, with Geo. Boniface as the hero. For Blanchard's benefit, Dec. 18, there were given : " Dumb Man of Manchester," " Richard Cceur De Leon," " Tom and Jerry," a dance by Miss Gardiner and J. M. Smith, and Wm. Adams did a banjo and bone solo. The pan- tomime " Harlequin Almighty Dollar, or the Coins of America," was seen Dec. 21, for the first time in America. Dec. 28, "The Surgeon of Paris, or the Queen and Mask," " Idiot of the Shannon, or The Harper and His Dog," and " The Sky Rockets," were given. Boniface acted Mose in "A Glance at New York," Jan. i, 1864, for the matinee, and at night the bill was " The Devil in the Bowery," " Valentine and Orson," the local drama " Scamps of New York," and " A Balloon Ascension." Kate Fisher appeared in " Mazeppa " Jan. 4, and Blanchard entered upon the seventh week of his engage- ment, acting for the first time " The Dumb Boy." Kate Fisher took her benefit Jan. 15, on which occasion Yankee Robinson made his first appearance in this city as Darius Dutton in " The Unionist's Daughter, or Life in the Border States." Kate Fisher is at present living at Bath Beach, L. I., having retired from the profession some years ago. She is the wife of John G. Magle. She was born in Boston, Mass., April 16, 1840, and had been on the stage since 1852,
2o6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D864
having made her d^but Oct. 6, as a danseuse, at Burton's Chambers Street Theatre. Her first husband was Gaines Clark.
" Cato, or a Slave's Revenge and the Dog of the Plantation," was acted Jan. 18 (for the first time in America), with " Mazeppa." Kate Fisher commenced her fifth week Feb. i, with " Rookwood," and Blanchard his sixty-first night, in " The Shipwrecked Mariner." The afterpiece was " The Three Fast Men, or the Female Robinson Crusoes," in which Kate Fisher assumed eight characters. J. W. Lingard had a benefit Feb. 5, prior to his departure for Europe, and the attraction presented consisted of " Rookwood," Campbell's minstrels in an olio by Eddy Hughes, Frank Gerard, Ned Davis, Johnny Booker, J. H. Whiting, E. Glover, and Mert Sexton, the drama of " Blueskin," Donovan and Charles A. Madigan in an acrobatic act, and "The Three Fast Men." The curtain dropped at one o'clock. Wm. B. English's drama, " Mike Martin, the Terror of the Highway," was given Feb. 8, with Kate Fisher as Mike Martin; Feb. 15 " The Ticket of Leave Man" was produced, with Edward Eddy as Bob Brierly, G. C. Boniface as Hawkshaw, Mrs. W. G. Jones as May Edwards, George Brooks as Green Jones, Kate Newton as Sam Willoughby, Wm. Marden as Dalton, Annie Hathaway as Emily St. Evremond, Andy Glassford as Melter Moss, and Louisa Eldridge as Mrs, Willoughby. Edwin Blanchard's engagement came to a close Feb. 17. "The Ticket of Leave Man" kept the stage until March 3, when " The Colleen Bawn " was revived, with this cast :
Myles-na-Coppaleen . . . E. Eddy Hardress Cregan . . . W. Marden
Corrigan A. Glassford
Hyland Creagh .... J. Winter Mrs. Cregan . . Miss Hathaway
Kyrle Daly G. Lingard
Ducie Blennerhasset . Miss Bowes
Eily O'Connor . Mrs. W. G. Jones
Sheelah Louisa Eldridge
Father Tom Geo. Brooks
Danny Mann .... D. Nourse
Dennis P. Connelly
Bertie Seabert
Anne Chute .... Kate Newton
Mrs. W. G. Jones sang " The Cruiskeen Lawn," and " The Pretty Maid Milking her Cow." " The Police Spy " was acted March 7. It was written expressly for Edward Eddy. March 18 Eddy played Rip Van Winkle, and Capt. Buridan in " La Tour de Nesle," for his benefit. " Jerry Ledrew, or the American Jack Sheppard," was the title of a drama by John F. Poole, first acted March 28. It was cast as follows :
PART FIRST. PARIS 1761. — PROLOGUE.
Jerry Ledrew, a highwayman of Paris Geo. Boniface
Keggs, his companion Geo. Brooks
Rupert Northdale D Nourse
Welton F. Evans
Gabrielle Bertin, the Deserted Mrs. W. G. Jones
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PARTS TWO, THREE AND FOUR- ScENE — New York.
AMERICA, 1796.
Jack Keggs . . Van Driecks . . Francis Darrand . Florence . . . Jack Sheppard .
. Geo. Brooks G. Davenport . Jos. Winter Mrs. Boniface Gec.Boniface
Capt. Rupert . . . . D. Nourse
Skinner A. Glassford
Spight F. Evans
Gabrielle .... Mrs. W. G. Jones Mrs. Van Driecks . Louisa Eldridge
Marie Zoe, " The Cuban Sylph," began an engagement here April 4 in " The French Spy." The oriental tale of enchantment entitled " Thalaba the Destroyer, or the Burning Sword of Hodeisa," was given here the same night. For Geo. C. Boniface's benefit, April 8, the bill was : " The Iron Chest," Boniface as Sir Edward Mortimer ; the " Flying Dutchman," Zoe as Vanderdecken ; the nautical drama "Jack's the Lad," Boniface as the noble tar; Sailors' Hornpipe by Katie Glassford ; and the farce " Hibernian," with G. C. Davenport as Dennis Murphy. The performance was over at ten minutes past one. " Cudjo Cave," a drama by John F. Poole, was seen April 11. The three hundredth anniversary of Shakespeare's birth, April 23, 1864, was observed by a benefit for the American Dramatic Fund Asso- ciation. " The Sea of Ice " was presented April 27, with Geo. Bon- iface as Marquis del Monte, Mrs. W. G. Jones as Ogarita. Kate Vance appeared May 2, in " Mazeppa." For John F. Poole's benefit, May 6, Kittie Fyffe (wife of Charles J. Fyffe) made her debut here as Nancy Strap, in "A Pleasant Neighbor." " Rookwood " was played May 9, with Kate Vance as Dick Turpin. For James Clute's benefit. May 20, Kaite Vance appeared in " The Three Fast Men." "Tom and Jerry" was also acted, and John Heenan, the pugilist. Prof. Whitney, and Millage Cornell appeared in the " Cribb " scene, in a display of the art of self-defence. " Heme the Hunter " was acted May 23, with Kate Vance as Heme.
N. B. Clarke took his benefit May 24, 1864, when "Barney the Baron," Barney Williams in the title r61e ; " Happy Man," Barney Williams as Paddy Murphy ; Frank Brower, in his " Happy Uncle Tom" act, accompanied on the banjo by W. S. Budworth; the French drama " Duel in the Snow ; " and " The Lost Son " formed the bill. Edwin Blanchard reappeared May 30, with his dog, in " The Forest of Bondy." A benefit was given to Samuel P. Mills June 3, when " The Cattle Stealers," Aynsley Cook in a ballad, " Will Watch, or the Black Phantom of the ClifF," Masters Goodwin and Collins in a clog dance, the drama of the " Toodles," with Edward Lamb as Toodles, scenes from " The Lady of the Lake," by Frank Evans and T. W. Keene, and the farce " Your Life 's in Danger," made up the programme.
Edward Eddy returned here June 6, as Badger in " The Poor of New York." " The Old House on the Bridge " was seen for the first
2o8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1864
time June 20. " Calderoni " was also acted, with Geo. W. Thompson (first appearance) in the leading character. George Boniface and Kate Newton took a benefit June 21, when " Laugh When You Can," Boniface as Geo. Gossamer ; recitation of " Shamus O'Brien," by James M. Ward ; " Toodles," with Edward Lamb in the title r61e ; a song by Marie Boniface ; Frank Brower and Cool White in a negro act ; Kate Newton as the French spy, for the first time, " Dolly " Davenport as Col. Bernelle ; and the farce " The Irish Doctor " were offered. James Lingard had another benefit June 28, with Eddy, as Capt. O'Brallahan in the "Irish Dragoon;" Bryant's minstrels in a first part; " The Married Rake;" Tony Pastor with comic songs; Charles E. Collins, " The Cure ;" " Slasher and Crasher ;" and " All the World 's a Stage " made up the bill. It was over at half-past twelve. "The Cataract of the Ganges" was presented July 11, with Kate Fisher as Zamine, Kittie Fyffe as Ubra, and Geo. W. Thomp- son as Mokarra.
J. Burdette Howe appeared July 18 as Phidias in "The Marble Heart." This was followed by "Ella Rosenberg," and "Young America;" July 20 "Wallace, the Hero of Scotland," and "Black Eyed Susan," formed the bill, with Howe as Wallace and William in the latter drama. July 21 "Don Caesar de Bazan," "Tom Cringle's Log House," and " The Artful Dodger," were given ; July 22, " Vision of the Dead ;" July 23, " The New York Fireman," with Howe as Frederick Jerome. Aug. i, for the first time in America, was seen " Such is Life, or a Glance at the Times." Frank Brower had a benefit Aug. 3, when the nautical drama " My Poll and ray Partner Joe;" the burlesque "Mazeppa, or the Untamed Rocking Horse," Frank Drew as Mazeppa, Robert H. Craig as Abder Kahn ; Mabel Giffert in a dance ; Henry Lockwood Glenn, and Schwicardi, of Wood's minstrels, in " Come Where my Love Lies Dreaming;" Cool White and Frank Brower in a negro act and " The Dumb Girl of Genoa," with Frank Mordaunt as Strapado ; and La Belle Oceana as Julietta, formed the programme, which closed at half-past twelve. The season ended Aug. 6, with " The Reprobate's Son," " Don Caesar de Bazan," "The Pirate's Legacy," and "The Mogul Tale."
Annie Hathaway made her last appearance on the New York stage with the close of this season. She was married to Harvey Blessenherz, leader of the orchestra of the theatre, and from this city she went West, and died in Indianapolis, Ind., Feb. 2, 1894.
J. W. Lingard had many important improvements effected in this theatre during the summer recess. N. B. Clarke was stage manager, and among the members of the company were : J. B. Howe, George Brooks, Geo. W. Thompson, Geo. Lingard, G. C. Davenport, W. Marden, A. Glassford, Phillips, Seabert, Mrs. W. G. Jones, Mrs. Geo. Boniface, Mrs. Alice Brooks, and Kittie Fyffe. The season began Aug. 20, 1864, with " The Surgeon of Paris," " A Glance at
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New York," and " Young America;" Aug. 22 and 23, "The Sightless Bride;" Aug. 24 and 25, "The Iron Mask," with J. B. Howe as Gaston ; Aug. 26, " Richard HI. ; " Aug. 29, " Cartouche, the Great Highwayman of Paris;" Sept. 4, "Vidocq, the Thief Taker of Paris; " and Sept. 12, " Macbeth," E. Eddy as Macbeth, J. B. Howe as Macduff, Geo. W. Thompson as Banquo, and Mrs. W. G. Jones as Lady Macbeth. Sept. 15 "Hamlet" was played, with Eddy as the Dane ; Mrs. W. G. Jones, Ophelia ; J. B. Howe, the Ghost. Sept. 16, " Damon and Pythias," Eddy as Damon, and Howe as Pythias ; Sept. 17, "Nick of the Woods;" Sept. 26 and 27, " Monte Cristo," Eddy as Dantes; Sept. 28, "The Dead Heart," Eddy as Robert Landry. For his benefit, Oct. 7, Eddy acted Shylock in " The Mer- chant of Venice," O'Callahan in " His Last Legs," and Patrick Donovan in "The Greek Spy." "The Artful Dodger" was the afterpiece. " Bessy Wild, or the Thief Taker's Daughter," by J. B. Howe, was first given Oct. 10. J. B. Howe's drama " The Merry Wives of New York" was first seen Oct. 17; "The Convict Mar- quis," and " The Charcoal Burner, or the Dripping Well of Knares- borough," Oct. 24 ; Mollie Williams and Felix A. Vincent appeared Oct. 31 in "Cricket, or the Wild Flower of Normandy," and the farce "Jenny Lind at Last." Miss M. Douglass made her d^but here Nov. 7, as Nora O'Brien in " The Irishman's Heart." " Old Phil's Birthday," was presented Nov. 11, with Felix Vincent as Old Phil Stapleton, and Jenny Fisher as Marion Hardress.
Manager Lingard took a benefit at the Academy of Music Nov. 17. Felix Vincent and Mollie Williams closed their engage- ment Nov. 19 with " The French Spy," " The Wizard Skiff," and the farces "Honest John" and "The Two Buzzards." "Fabian the Serf, and Pauline of Bourbon" were first acted Nov. 21. Mr. and Mrs. William Gomersal made their first appearance in this theatre Nov. 28, as Blinkey Brown and Sarah Sawyer in " Waiting for the Verdict." The drama had this cast:
Lieut. Fleuville . . . . W. Marden Humphrey Higson .... Connelly- Lady Emily .... Mrs. Boniface Viscount Elmore . . G. W. Mitchell Martha Roseblade Mrs. W. G. Jones Sarah Sawyer Mrs. Wm. Gomersal Rev. Owen Hylton ... J. Winter
Dec. 7 " Rob Roy," was produced, with J. B. Howe in the title r6le, and Gomersal as Dougal. Dec. 9 " The Workhouse Boy, or the Scamps of the Seven Dials," was given, with Mrs. Gomersal as Oliver Twist, Gomersal as the Dodger ; also the same night " The Child of the Regiment," in which Mrs. Gomersal acted Josephine, the afterpiece was " Blondin on the Low Rope," with Gomersal as Blondin ; " The Charcoal Man," by John F. Poole, and " The Black
VOL. II. — 14
Grafton G. Lingard
Jonas G. W. Thompson
Jonathan Roseblade . . A. Glassford Earl of Milford ... N. B. Clarke Mrs. Burnley .... Mrs. Bowes Jasper Roseblade . . . J. B. Howe
21 0 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D865
Bag" an extravaganza, by J. B. Howe, were seen Dec. 12. For William Post's (officer of the house) benefit, Dec. 22, " The Muleteer of Toledo ; " " Presumptive Evidence ; " " The Artful Dodger ; " Wal- lace's Brass Band ; Marietta Ravel on the tight rope ; songs by Tommy Shields and Fred Shaw ; Prof. Whitney and Millage Cornell in a set-to with the boxing-gloves; Francis Siegrist and Master George Siegrist, trapeze act; Nelse Seymour and Master Tommy in a song and dance; and John Engler in a skating act, made up the bill. Dec. 26 J. B. Howe's drama " Jerry Abbershaw " was pre- sented ; also " The Cross of Death," with G. W. Thompson in the leading rdle.
Addie Anderson commenced an engagement Jan. 30, 1865, in " Mazeppa." She died in Chicago, June, 17, 1884. Feb. 3, James M. Nixon had a benefit, and the same ring used at Niblo's Garden for Cooke's Royal Circus was brought into requisition. In addition to " The Steel Cap," an equestrian entertainment was given by the following: George Brooks appeared as a clown for the first time; James Melville and his Australian family ; Chas. Sherwood, Joe Pent- land, Madigan and Donovan, Mme. Louise Tourniaire, Robert Stickney, M. Carron, F. Siegrist, J. Barry, John Foster, F. Burt, J. Hawkins, T. Stewart, Young Chillian, H. Metcalf, Master George, Master Sherwood, Nat Austin, and others. Feb. 6 Mollie Williams and Felix A. Vincent reappeared. " The Organ Grinder, or Nannie the Street Singer," by Auguste Waldauer, was produced Feb. 13. Mrs. W. H. Leighton and Yankee Locke were seen Feb. 20 in " Little Devil," Sam Patch in " France " and " The Fool of the Family." J. B. Howe disappeared very suddenly Feb. 23, and was arrested on board the steamer just as he was about sailing for Eng- land. He was arrested at the suit of James Lingard for a debt of ^268, and was conveyed to Ludlow Street Jail. It appears that Mr. Howe was engaged in England by Mr. Lingard for three years at a salary of ^8 per week and two half-clear benefits. After signing the contract he discovered " dollars " inserted instead of " pounds," and having previously been here, he knew the difference, par- ticularly just after the war times. But he was assured by the agent (Lingard having left London) that the error would be rectified on his arrival in New York. Mr. Howe was also to be paid for what- ever dramas he should write and were produced here. He claimed that his salary was so small that he had to borrow the amount of money from Mr. Lingard; furthermore, that Lingard owed him ;^200 for two dramas. Mr. Howe secured a lawyer, and on the ground of false imprisonment he was discharged after being incar- cerated twenty-four hours. He was advised to arrest Mr. Lingard for false imprisonment, but he preferred getting to England as soon as possible, as he had a very good offer of a star engagement await- ing him. His salary here amounted to less than five pounds (in-
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stead of eight), as " shin plasters " were worth about forty-five cents to the gold dollar.
George C. Boniface and Kate Newton began a round of Shake- spearian characters, Feb. 26. March 8 a complimentary benefit was given to T. B. De Walden, and March 13, Walter Grisdale made his first appearance in America as Virginius. William Marden acted Icilius ; Geo. W. Thompson, Appius Claudius ; and Annie Hyatt, Virginia. March 14, "A New Way to Pay Old Debts," " King Lear," "Mountaineers." March 18, "Richard III." March 20, " Gaelic Chief," which ran until April 7, when Geo. Brooks took a benefit, which was not over until 12.50 o'clock. Geo. C, Charles, and Emilie Melville March 10, in " Ireland and America," " Jenny Lind," and " The Irish Lion." In consequence of the assassination of President Lincoln, the house was closed from April 14 to April 25, inclusive. It reopened April 26, with Walter Grisdale as Ethel- wood, in "The Tomb! the Throne! and the Scaffold!" May i, "Hamlet," Grisdale as Hamlet. May 5, "Macbeth," Grisdale as the Thane. E. Eddy returned May 8, as Jean Remy. May 10, "The Last Days of Pompeii." May 11, the Indian tragedy, " Man- tinimo." May 22 Henry Leslie's play, " The Mariner's Compass," was acted for the first time in America, cast as follows :
Silas Engleheart . . . . E. Eddy Trafalgar Joe ... A. Glassford Jonathan Scoaley .... Seabert Raby Deverell . . . Wm. Marden
Hetty Arnold . . Mrs. W. G. Jones
Selina Annie Hyatt
Little Annie . . . Eliza Glassford
"The Mariner's Compass" after being transformed by James A. Heme into his " original " drama " Hearts of Oak " was acted by that gentleman for many seasons. Edward Eddy closed a six weeks' stay June 10, with " Pizarro," " The Greek Spy," and " Alice May." " The Accusing Sprit, or Three Travellers of the Tyrol," June 12. "The Mysterious Marriage, or Camilla's Husband," with Mrs. Jones as Lady Camilla, June 16, for the first time in New York. Lizzie Wood was the next " Mazeppa " star, who commenced June 26. Once more Manager James Lingard made a begging appeal, in the shape of a benefit, June 27. The regular season closed July 8, with "Jack Sheppard on Horseback," the national drama, " The Star Spangled Banner," " The King and Deserter," and " Fortune's Frolic."
A summer season commenced July 10, under the management of G. C. Boniface, Kate Estelle, and G. C. Davenport joining. " Ham- let" was the initial performance, with Boniface as the Prince, Kate Estelle as the Queen, Mrs. Geo. Boniface as Ophelia, Geo. C. Davenport as the Gravedigger, and N. B. Clarke the Ghost; July 11, Boniface played Claude Melnotte.to Kate Estelle's Pauline; July 12, Romeo ; July 13, Richelieu ; July 14, Sir Harcourt Courtley in " Lon-
212 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1865
don Assurance " : F. A. Tannehill first acted in this city as Dazzle ; Kate Estelle was the Lady Gay ; Mrs. Boniface, Grace ; G. C. Daven- port, Mark Meddle; Marden as Charles Courtley; Seabert, Dolly Spanker ; and J. P. Winter as Cool. " The Widow's Victim," with G. C. Davenport as Jerry Clip, in which he gave imitations of Wm. Wheatley, Barney Williams, Barry Sullivan, and G. C. Boniface; July 15, "Wallace, the Hero of Scotland," with Boniface in the title r61e, "Yankee Jack" (Boniface as Jack), and "The Happy Man;" July 17, for the first time in five years, Boniface as Luke Fielding in "The Willow Copse; " July 13, "St. Mary's Eve" and " Lucrezia Borgia" were played; July 19, "The Sea of Ice; " July 20, "Wild Oats;" July 21, "Laugh When You Can; July 22, "La Tour de Nesle," " Tom Cringle," and " Ireland As It Was." Ellen Grey was specially engaged for Margaret of Burgundy — her first appearance in five years. The summer season closed July 24, with a benefit to Geo. Boniface, when " Macbeth" was acted.
The theatre closed after this performance, and reopened July 29, 1865, with the following company: Walter Grisdale, Geo. Brooks, Geo. W. Thompson, Geo. Lingard, James W. Lingard, N. B. Clarke, J. Winter, Stanton, Seabert, DeMall, R. Smith, Wilson, Annie Hyatt, Marion Willis, Mrs. Harry Jordan, Mrs. Geo. Brooks (now Mrs. Hart Conway) and Mrs. W. G. Jones. The opening programme was " Kathleen Mavourneen," " The Wandering Minstrel " and " The King and Freebooter." Aug. 4 " Richard III." was played, Walter Grisdale as Richard; Aug. 5, " Claude Duval; " Aug. 7, first time, " Dream of Destiny." James C. Dunn took a benefit Aug. 9, and the bill was: " Pizarro," J. B. Studley as Rolla; " The French Spy" was acted, Kate Pennoyer as Mathilde (for the first time), Jas. C. Dunn as Col. Bernelle ; the fifth act of " Richard III.," Sam Glenn as the crooked-backed tyrant in Dutch ; and " Barney, the Irish Tinker," James M. Ward as Barney. It was just one o'clock when the perform- ance was over. Aug. 12, the old spectacle, " Gio, the Armorer of Tyre," "The Maid of Croissy," and "The Wandering Minstrel;" Aug. 19, " Hawk, the Highwayman," in which James W. Lingard acted Sir John Boyes, also the drama " Vampire," and (for the first time) " The Midnight Banquet ; " Aug. 21, an adaptation of Le Bossu, entitled " The Duke's Signal," the drama of " The Robber of Scio," and " The Jolly Cobbler " were played ; Aug. 26, " The Blue Dwarf, or Love and Crime," followed by " The Yankee Cobbler; " "Chain of Guilt " was played, and " Landsharks and Seagulls ; " Aug. 28 was the first night of " Money and Misery." In the first piece Little Lulu (Lulu Jordan) played Hester.
Geo. C. Boniface returned Sept. 4, in " Othello," Boniface as lago, Grisdale as the Moor; Sept. 5, "Macbeth," Boniface as Macbeth, Mrs. W. G. Jones as Lady Macbeth ; Sept. 6, " Julius Caesar," Boni- face as Marc Antony ; Sept. 7, " Macbeth," Grisdale as Macbeth,
1865] NEW BOWERY THEATRE 213
Boniface as Macduff. There were also played the same night " Buried Alive," and " The Strike." For Geo. Boniface's benefit, Sept. 8, "Robert Macaire," Boniface in the title r61e; Geo. C. Davenport, with songs and dances ; the comedy " Perfection," Harry Pearson and A. H. Davenport as Sir Lawrence Paragon and Charles Paragon ; " Sketches in India," Florence La Fond (first appearance in New York) as Sally Scraggs, J. H. Jack as Sir Mathew Scraggs, and Nelly Taylor as Lady Scraggs ; also " Blueskin," in three acts and twenty tableaux, Boniface as Jack Sheppard, James W. Lingard as Blueskin, Mrs. W. G. Jones as Edgeworth Bess, composed the bill. Mr. Boniface's engagement closed Sept. 9, and the programme was : Louisa Medina's (Mrs. Thomas Hamblin) drama, "Nick of the Woods," Boniface as Jibbenainosay ; the new three-act drama " The Life and Adventures of Cartouche, the Great Highwayman of Paris," and "The Chain of Guilt." Sept. 11 Edward Eddy appeared in "The Wizard of the Wave ; " Sept. 15, in " Pizarro," Eddy as RoUa; Sept. i6, " William Tell," " Paul Jones," and " A Glance at New York," Eddy played William Tell and Long Tom Coffin. Sept. 18, the new historical five-act drama translated from the French by Fred Schwab, " The Life and Times of Richard IIL" The national drama, " False Colors " and " Buried Alive " were also played the same evening. Sept. 25, " The Six Degrees of Crime," " Blue Dwarf," and the farce " Brown and Smith." Sept. 26, " The Courier of Lyons," "Cartouche," and "The Robber of Scio;" Sept. 27 Eddy acted Robert Landry in " The Dead Heart; " Sept. 28, " The Rag Picker of Paris," " Blacksmith of Antwerp," and " Brown and Smith ; " Sept. 29 Eddy played Jacob Odet in the French drama of that name. A lengthy bill was that of Saturday, Sept. 30, viz., the Scotch drama, " Wallace," " The Game Cock of the Wilderness," "The Irish Haymaker," and the nautical drama " Larboard Fin." Mr. Eddy acted Wallace and Sampson Hardhead in the first two plays.
E. Eddy opened the last week of his engagement 1865, Oct. 2, with the spectacular drama, " Faustus," and " The Blue Dwarf." Oct. 5 Eddy did Damon, to the Pythias of Geo. W. Thompson, and Mrs. W. G. Jones was Calanthe. For his farewell benefit, Oct. 6, " Hamlet," " His Last Legs," and " A Glance at New York " were played. Mrs. W. G. Jones was the Ophelia. " La Tour de Nesle," "The Irish Dragoon," " The Greek Spy," and "The Dutchman's Ghost " were given for Mr. Eddy's farewell appearance Oct. 7.
A benefit performance took place Oct. 13 in aid of the widow and children of Francis B. O'Keefe. Three dramas were played Oct. 14: " Jerry Abershaw," " Ireland and America," and " The Soldier's return." Oct. 16 was the first night of " Orion the Goldbeater." " The Convict's Vengeance" Oct. 18, in addition to " Orion." Oct. 21, "Love, Ambition, and Retribution," with " Dick the Newsboy"
214 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Ei86s
and "A Chain of Guilt " were given Oct. 23, with Walter Grisdale and Mrs. W. G. Jones in the leading r61es. " Vidocq," " Harry Blake," and " Cavaliers and Roundheads " Oct. 28. Kate Fisher appeared Oct. 30 in "Mazeppa;" "Shandy Maguire" and the " King's Gardener " were played the same night.
A strike took place among the musicians Nov. i. The following night there was no orchestra, the only music being from a piano. Kate Fisher in "The Female American Spy." "Vidocq" and " Brian O'Lynn " were also acted. The musicians in all the theatres had been getting ^14 a week, and struck for $20. The strike ended in a compromise. A new orchestra was secured for Nov. 15, when "The Octoroon," "Our Neighbors," and "Harry Blake" were played. The cast of " The Octoroon " was :
Wah-no-tee . . Mrs. Peyton . . Geo. Peyton . . Jacob McCluskey Salem Scudder .
Walter Grisdale
. Mrs. H. Jordan
Geo. Lingard
. . J. Winter
Geo. Brooks
Pete .... Geo. W. Thompson
Zoe Mrs. W. G. Jones
Dora Annie Hyatt
Paul .... Mrs. Geo. Brooks
Walter Grisdale took a benefit Nov. 17, when "Lavater or Not a Bad Judge," was acted, with Grisdale as Lavater, and James Lingard as Betman. " Never Too Late to Mend " was also acted, for the first time in America, with this cast :
Tom Robinson . , Isaac Levy . . The Rev. Mr. Eden
Walter Grisdale G. W. Thompson , . N. B. Clarke
Susan Merton . Mrs. W. G. Jones John Meadows .... J. Winter
After this drama Albert Braham sang " Vive L' America," J. Bogan danced an Irish jig, Jake Smith did a bone solo, and J. T. Collins executed a clog dance. N. B. Clarke's drama, " O'Neal the Great," "Sixteen String Jack," and "The Smuggler" were given Nov. 18. Harry Leslie, the tight-rope walker, appeared Nov. 20, and, in addition to playing Tom in " The Dumb Man of Man- chester," made an ascent and descent on a single rope from the back of the stage to the extreme height of the theatre, performing several tricks at the same time. " Yankee Jack " and " Sixteen String Jack" were also acted. The performance closed at one o'clock. "The Blue Dwarf" was played Nov. 22. For his benefit, Nov. 24, Leslie appeared as Mushapug, a monkey, in " Jack Robin- son." N. B. Clarke's drama, " Kenneth," was given Nov. 25. " Peep o'Day" Nov. 27, and thus cast:
Kathleen Kavanagh Mr. O'Cleary . . Mrs. Kavanagh . . Barney O'Toole . .
Mrs. W. G. Jones
Geo. Thompson
Mrs. H. Jordan
Geo. Brooks
Harry Kavanagh .... Grisdale
Stephen J. Winter
Mary Grace .... Annie Hyatt Widow Mrs. Johnson
Nov. 28, " Claude Duval, the Highwayman of 1666." Walter Gris- dale played Claude, and Mrs. W. G. Jones, Nell Gwynne. " Capt. Kyd"
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was acted Dec. 2, followed by " The Three Cracksmen," and con- cluding with " The Wreckers of Normandy." Dec. 4, " Robin Hood, the Bold Outlaw." Dec. 7, for the afternoon performance, the spec- tacle of " The Forty Thieves," " War in China," and " Jack Sheppard on Horseback," with Mrs. W. G. Jones as Jack. In the evening, " George Barrington, the Gentleman Highwayman," " The Three Cracksmen," and " Yankee Tars in China." Saturday night, Dec. 9, for Robert Johnston's benefit, " The Rag Picker of New York," " Jacques Strop " (" Robert Macaire "), " Dick Turpin," and " Tom King." " Grant's Campaign, or Incidents of the Rebellion," by John F. Poole, Dec. 11. "The Death Plank" Dec. 15, for Geo. Brooks' benefit ; also " Le Solitaire," " Nora Creina," and " Robber of Scio." For Saturday night, Dec. 16, three dramas were given, viz. : " Knights of the Mint," " Blacksmith of Antwerp," and " Mid- night Banquet." " The Gunmaker of Moscow, or Valdimir the Monk," by Geo. L. Aiken, Dec. 18. The cast was :
Ruric Nevel . . . Walter Grisdale Olga Winter
Valdimir ... G. W. Thompson Count DamanofE Seabert
•Paul Annie Hyatt Rosalind . . . Mrs. W. G. Jones
Zenobia Mrs. Brooks
" The Spirit of the Fountain " and Yankee Hill's drama, " Hiram Dodge," Dec. 20. For Geo. Thompson's benefit, Dec. 22, " Capt. Kyd," " Calderoni," and " Jacques Strop." " Moll Pitcher," Yankee Tars in China," and " A Glance at New York," Saturday night, Dec. 23 ; Arrah na Pogue Dec. 25.
Major Coffin Seabert
Michael Feeny .... J. Winter Fanny Power . . . Miss Simmons
Katty Annie Hyatt
Secretary N. B. Clarke
Arrah Meelish . Mrs. W. G. Jones
Col. O'Grady . . G. W. Thompson
Beamish McCoul . . Geo. Lingard
Shaun the Post . . . T. H. Glenney
Jan. I, 1866, "Horseshoe Robinson," "Aladdin," and "Land- sharks and Seagulls," made up the bill, and for the evening, " Arrah na Pogue," " Turn Him Out," and " Bandit of the Blind Mine." Mr. Glenney took a benefit Jan. 5 : "Arrah na Pogue," Bryant's minstrels, including Nelse Seymour, Dave Reed, Little Mac, and Mickey War- ren; "The Colleen Bawn," with Glenney as Miles-na-Coppaleen (for the first time in America), was the programme. For Saturday night, Jan. 6, first act " Arrah na Pogue," " Jonathan Bradford," " Knights of the Mint," and " Poor John Smidt." " Blue Lights of the Devil HoU," by Edward Fitzball, was acted for the first time in America :
Mary Glastonbury Mrs. W. G. Jones
Ernest Walter Grisdale
Galen Fog Stanton
Lucy Annie Hyatt
Patience . Frank . . Dr. Aristotle
Mrs. H. Jordan
G. W. Thompson
Geo. Brooks
21 6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D866
This was the coldest night that had been experienced in New York in thirty-five years. Steam could not be had in the theatre, the pipes being all frozen. Andrew Glassford made his first appearance this season Jan. 13, as Titus Oates in " Claude Duval." " Seven Poor Travellers" was given Jan. 15. William Post, officer of the theatre, had a benefit Jan. 18. Thos. Q, Riggs acted Bill Williams in " Home from the War," for the first time in New York. Harry Leslie, the rope walker, did his knee-dance ; the Twenty-second Regiment drum corps played ; John Barry, in a clog dance ; the comedy of " Perfec- tion," and a comic song by Billy Holmes ; jig dance by Mickey War- ren, accompanied on the violin by Larry Dunn ; Geo. Thompson and Little Mac in a sketch, and Prof. Heintz and his pupils L. Frederick and Emil Rosenbaum with the foils ; A. P. Walcott, roller-skating act ; Francois Siegrist and his son George, in a posturing act, and " Barney the Baron," G. C. Davenport acting Barney. The receipts were $1,2^2. " The Death Plank, or The Child of the Ocean," " The Persecuted Dutchman," and " George Barrington," were seen Jan. 19. " The Convict Marquis " was done Jan. 20, with " The Soap Fat Man ; " Jan. 22 " Captain Macheath, or the Black Rivers of Houn- slow Heath," the Scotch drama, " Gilderoy," and " Brian O'Lynn," were given. The new London burletta, " Mrs. Green's Snug Little Business," was acted Jan. 27. " Raoul the Knight, or the Magician of Grenada," was first seen here Jan. 29.
For James W. Lingard's next benefit, Feb. i, the bill was : "The Rival Dutchmen," W. J. Thompson as Bimblebeck, Geo. Thompson as Vatchell ; the Hanlon Brothers in gymnastic and acrobatic acts ; " The Hole in the Wall," J. W. Lingard as Thomas ; Billy Birch and Charley Backus, of the San Francisco minstrels, in their Othello and Macbeth sketch ; Little Mac in " The Essence of Ole Virginny ; " Rollin Howard, Nelse Seymour, Dan Bryant, Tony Pastor, in comic songs ; Harry Leslie, with his knee-dance ; A. P. Walcot, on roller skates ; song by Pat McGowan ; and the drama, " A Thumping Legacy.' For Saturday night, Feb. 3, "The Highwayman of 1776, or the American Jack Sheppard," by John F. Poole ; " The Charcoal Man, or New York Fast Life," and " False Colors," were seen. T. H. Glenney returned here Feb. 5 in " Arrah na Pogue." Geo. C. Boniface reappeared here Feb. 12, as Carlos in "The Sea of Ice," with this cast :
Carlos Boniface
Henri de Lascours G. W. Thompson Jean Stanton
Louise de Lascours and Ogarita
Mrs. W. G. Jones Barabas Geo. Brooks
On Feb. 15 Boniface acted Edward Middleton in " The Drunkard," and Jolly Jack in "Jack's the Lad." For Saturday night, Feb. 17, Boniface appeared as Julio Dormilly in " The Six Degrees of Crime," and Vanderdecken in " The Flying Dutchman." The farce of " The
1866: NEW BOWERY THEATRE 217
Irish Doctor" was also acted. " Macbeth" was done Feb. 19, Boni- face as Macbeth, Mrs. W. G. Jones as Lady Macbeth ; Feb. 20, "Richelieu;" Feb. 21, "The Stranger;" and Feb. 22, "Jocrisse the Juggler." Mrs. W. G. Jones took a benefit Feb. 23, when " Medea," " Esmeralda," and " The Rival Dutchmen " were played. Matilda Heron was Medea. It was the first and only appearance of that actress at this house. Mrs. Jones played Creusa; Walter Gris- dale, Jason. Feb. 24, Boniface acted Sir WilUam in " Wallace the Hero of Scotland," and Jibbenainosy in " Nick of the Woods." " A Glance at New York " finished the bill. Feb. 27 the entertainments, afternoon and evening, were for the benefit of the sufferers by the burning of the American Theatre at No. 444 Broadway. A regular variety performance by the company from the late " /i/|/) " establish- ment, and " Home from the War," was the matinee bill. The even- ing show commenced with Charley White's farce, " The Mischievous Nigger," with Charley White, C. B. Reynolds, T. G. Rigg, A. Glass- ford, and Annie Hyatt in the cast. This was followed by a series of sketches and acts by Johnny Thompson, Frank Kerns, J. Morrissey, W. F. Bush, Florence Wells, Andy Leavitt, Charley White, Fanny Forrester, Emma Ross, Lucy and Sallie Clinetop, and concluded with the drama " Trial by Battle."
George Boniface took a benefit March 2 and presented "The Lady of Lyons." Agnes Perry (afterwards Agnes Booth) was the Pauline; Jas. Lingard, Col. Damas; and Mr. Boniface, Claude Melnotte. " Sketches in India " introduced Mrs. Geo. Boniface as Sally Scraggs. The legendary drama, " Der Freischiitz " (Boniface as Caspar), "Blueskin" (Boniface as Jack Sheppard), and "Le Solitaire," was the closing programme of Boniface's engagement, March 3. The company burned out at Butler's Theatre, 444 Broadway, commenced a two weeks' engagement in conjunction with "Brian Boroihme." "The Forest Keeper " was first acted in America at this house March 19. " The Sphinx Mystery " March 26. "The Bohemians, or the Rogues of Paris" was seen for the first time in America March 29. " Bessie Wild, the Thief Taker's Daughter, " March 31. Walter Grisdale was seen for the first time as Jack Sheppard ; andj. W. Lingard, Joe Blueskin. " Edgeworth Bess or Jack and His Bride, " was played April 2. A benefit was given to the Workingmen's Union April 3, when Bryant's and the San Fran- cisco minstrels, Tony Pastor's Opera House company, T. G. Nolan, jig dancer, and H. C. Dobson, banjoist, appeared, the dramatic company playing "The Rent Day." N. B. Clarke took a benefit April 6, and " The French Spy " was given. Marietta Ravel as the Spy, P. Connelly as Mohammed ; double song and dance, by John- son and Prendergast; "The Butcher Dog of Ghent;" double clog dance by the Lancashire Boys; and "Ireland As It Was." Frank Evans played Neil O'Carolan; Jenny Walters, Judy O'Trot; and Geo. Davenport, Pat.
21 8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D866
At four years of age Marietta Ravel made her first appearance before the public, at Boston, Mass., in company with the Ravels, and gave a performance on the tight rope. She continued one of the principal features of the Ravel Family for several years, visit- ing France, England, and other countries. After several years of retirement she reappeared in public during the war, at the Palace Garden in this city (Fourteenth Street and Sixth Avenue), on the tight rope. She was next seen at the Canterbury Music Hall, where, as a premUre danseuse, she continued for some time. It was while here that she married Martin W. Hanley, at that time in the orchestra of that establishment, and who for some time has been the manager for Edward Harrigan and Robert Mantell. On March 13, 1865, she acted "The French Spy," at Pittsburg, for the first time.
George Davenport was an Irish comedian of great promise. He died in St. Luke's Hospital, this city, Jan. 25, 1884, when a little over forty years of age. He was married to Kate Newton (sister- in-law to George Boniface), Oct. 8, 1865. She afterwards became the wife of Charles Backus, the minstrel performer.
Leo Hudson appeared here in " Mazeppa " April 9, with George W. Thompson as Abder Khan. This lady was formerly the wife of Charles Backus. She appeared April 14 as Otapontas, in "Eagle Eye." Leo Hudson died at St. Louis, Mo., June 2, 1873. Her last appearance on the stage was at Wakefield's Opera House, that city. May 10, of the same year. While performing "Mazeppa" at a matinee performance, she received serious internal injuries by her horse. Black Bess, missing her footing, and falling to the stage, while Miss Hudson was bound to her back. She was bom at London, England, while her parents were on a visit to that country.
Imogene Tracy made her first appearance here April 9, as Eosetta in " The Swiss Swains. " " The Cataract of the Ganges " was pre- sented April 16, with Leo Hudson as Zamine, Walter Grisdale as Mokarra. For her farewell benefit, April 20, Miss Hudson acted Don Csesar, in "Don Caesar de Bazan," and Gen. Putnam, in "Putnam, the Iron Son of '^6." "Phorty Thieves, or ye Robbers on Basket Horses," by John F. Poole, was given April 23 for the first time. Prof. W. Tanner and his performing dogs and monkeys appeared April 30. "The Scottish Chiefs" was seen May 4 for Grisdale' s benefit. Among the volunteers were Albert Braham in songs, and Louise Carman (from Wallack's) in a dance. G. W. Thompson had a host of volunteers for his benefit May 1 1. They were as follows: Kathleen O'Neil, Albert Braham, R. W. Smith (tambourine solo), assisted by Tom Wadde, Johnny Mack, Master Morissey, Lew Brimmer, Georgina Tracy, Charles and George Dobson, Harry King, Profs. Whitney and Cornell, Mickey Warren,
I866J NEW BOWERY THEATRE 219
and Cronin and Collins. Edward Eddy and Henrietta Irving ap- peared May 21 as Claude Melnotte and Pauline in "The Lady of Lyons." May 22 "The Merchant of Venice," Eddy as Shylock and Miss Irving as Portia, was played; May 23, "Hamlet" and "The Day After the Wedding;" May 24, "The Stranger," Eddy in the title r61e, Miss Irving as Mrs. Haller. Also " Black Eyed Susan," Eddy as William, and Miss Irving as Susan. "La Tour de Nesle," "Taming of the Shrew," "The Irish Haymaker," and "The Rendezvous" formed the bill for Eddy's benefit, May 25, when he acted Capt. Buridan, Petruchio, and Looney McTwolter. For Miss Irving's benefit. May 26, "Nick of the Woods," "Tam- ing of the Shrew," and "Ben the Boatswain " were given.
Mme. Celeste began an engagement May 28 in "The Woman in Red," which kept the stage all the week. June 4 Celeste acted the dual r61e in "The House on the Bridge of Notre-Dame," Mr. Grisdale playing Torquerolles.
Walter Grisdale died in England, Feb. 13, 1883, of inflamma- tion of the lungs, aged fifty-nine years. For Celeste's benefit and last appearance, June 8, the programme was: "The Child of the Wreck," Celeste as Maurice, followed by "Customs of the Coun- try," Barney Williams and George Becks as Melissa and Mortimer Sparkle; after which "Barney the Baron," Barney Williams in the title rdle, and concluded with "Green Bushes," Mme. Celeste as Miami. June 9 " Captain Macheath," " Yankee Jack," and " State Secrets," made up the bill, when the season closed, and George Brooks retired from the theatre. Probably no low comedian that has ever appeared in the Bowery enjoyed a more extended or better- earned reputation than Mr. Brooks. His widow is now known as Mrs. Hart Conway. Charles F. Seabert died in this city Oct. 29, 1887, aged fifty-one years. A summer season commenced June 16, with Sheridan Corbyn as manager, and James Schonberg as stage director. The attraction was the Buislay Family of acro- bats, pantomimists, and gymnasts, comprising fitienne, Adolphe, Auguste, Julio, Greuet, Justin, Joaquin Buislay, and Mile. Louise. With them was a dramatic company, for the presentation of come- dies and farces. It included Sallie A. Hinckley, Alicia Thorne, Fred Woodhull, L. R. Benneaux, George Roundy, J. W. Pember- ton, George and Alfred Becks, Wright, Williams, M. Grossi, Mme. Strebinger, Blanche Chapman, and Carrie A. Moore, skater (the latter' s first appearance in New York).
The last season of this house commenced Aug. 4, 1866. James W. Lingard was manager, N. B. Clarke, stage manager, and Ben- jamin Dean, musical director. Geo. W. Herbert was prompter, and had been so from the first night the theatre opened. The principals of the company were : James W. Lingard, N. B. Clarke, W. H. Whalley, G. W. Thompson, Belvil Ryan, George Lingard,
220 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisee
Stanton, Andrew Glassford, Violet Campbell (Mrs. Belvil Ryan),
A. Glassford, Jr. , E. and A. Powell, and Sarah Steele. The open- ing bill was "Damon and Pythias," "Wilful Murder," and "Bach- elor's Buttons." This was William H. Whalley's first appearance in this house (as Damon), Violet Campbell's (Mrs. Belvil Ryan) first appearance in the United States, and Belvil Ryan's American debut. Violet Campbell and Belvil Ryan played Sam Daisy and Fanny Wilton in "Bachelor's Buttons." Aug. 6 "Macbeth" was given, with Whalley as Macbeth, G. W. Thompson as Macduff, N.
B. Clarke as Banquo; Violet Campbell, Lady Macbeth; and Belvil Ryan, First Witch. " The Phantom of Tormenar " was seen for the first time Aug. 8. Saturday night, Aug. ii, "Six Degrees of Crime" "The Flying Dutchman," and "Brian O' Lynn," formed the bill. " The Mysteries of Carrow Abbey " was presented Aug. 13; "The Three Red Men, or the Brothers of Bluthaupt," Aug. 20. Edward Eddy and Henrietta Irving reappeared Aug. 27, in "The Jewess" and "Handsome Husband." Rachel Denvil made her first appearance here Aug. 27 as Rachel the Jewess. " Roc- ambole " was first seen here Sept. 3, cast thus :
Bacaret )
Mme. Charmetl Joseph Flippart > Rocambole i
Henrietta Irving .... Eddy
Andrea G. W. Thompson
Jean Belvil Ryan
Count A. Glassford
Valentine Asbury Dowd
Sept. 7 Eddy acted Chas. de Moor in "The Robbers," and Petruchio in " Taming of the Shrew. " He appeared as Belphegor Sept. 10. He was the original of this character in America. Sept. 13 Eddy was seen in "The Dead Heart;" Sept. 14, "The Streets of New York," Eddy as Badger, Henrietta Irving as Dan; Sept. 20, for Lingard's benefit, "The Serious Family," Eddy as Captain Murphy Maguire, Henrietta Irving as Widow Delmaine; Tony Pastor, in comic songs; "All the World's a Stage;" ballad by Charles Henry; Frank Brower and Eph Horn, in a negro sketch; bone solo by John Smith, and the Dutch farce, "Moses Wokkle." " The Last Days of Pompeii " was done Sept. 22. " Osanore " by Edwin F. de Nyse (who afterwards married Lulu Prior), was acted Sept. 24; Oct. I "Paul Clifford" was given, with William Whalley as Paul Clifford.
William H. Whalley died in St. Francis' Hospital, this city, April 7, 1876. He was born in County Donegal, Ireland, Aug. 28, 1837. He came to America at an early age, and made his debut on the stage at the Arch Street theatre, Philadelpha, Pa., acting a minor character in "Speed the Plough." His last public performances were at the Stadt Theatre, this city, during a brief season in November, 1875. His remains were interred in Calvary cemetery.
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John F. Poole's " Gaelic Chief " was first acted Oct. 8. There were nearly two hundred "supers," and they made a lively scene at the gathering of the Clans of Scotland when Wm. Cleland and Peter Bowman, Scotch bagpipers, were first heard in this city. The Irish drama, "Eva the Irish Princess," was first seen Oct. 27. John F. Poole's prize drama, "Captain Heron, or the Highwayman of Epping Forest," Oct. 31 ; "The Gunmaker of Mos- cow," and " Jonathan Bradford " were acted Nov. 3. " The Black Cat of Coventry "was done Nov. 12. "Mazeppa." Nov. 23, " Cataract of the Ganges;" Nov. 24, "Jack Sheppard on Horseback;" Nov. 26, "The Three Fast Men," with Kate Fisher in eight characters; Nov. 30 she appeared in "The French Spy on Horseback," and "The Young American Actress." Dec. i, "Handsome Jack on Horseback;" Dec. 4 the pantomime of "Tom, Tom, the Piper's Son" was acted for two weeks. Harlequin, W. Stanton; Clown, Little Mac ; Pantaloon, Andrew Glassford ; and Columbine, Katie Glassford. " Crohoore na Bilhoge " was played Dec. 14. Augus- tin Daly's "Griffith Gaunt" was first seen here Dec. 17 with the following cast :
Griffith Gaunt . . W. H. Whalley Geo. Neville . . G. W. Thompson The Attorney General . . Ashbury Lawyer Houseman . . . G. Lingard Manager of the Royal Timbuctoo
Pearson Manager of the Royal Princess Baker Prof, of Royal Game .... Hall
Crier of the Court Kate Peyton . Mercy Vint . Caroline Ryder A Pretty Gypsy Squire Peyton
, . Wilson
. Rachel Denvil
Violet Campbell
Mrs. A. Glassford
Miss Francis
A. Glassford
Father Francis Wright
Brother Leonard Dowd
Chief Justice Seabert
Ned Galton Wheeler
Tom Leicester .... Belvil Ryan
Paul Carrick Stanton
Old Vint J. B. Mason
John Noakes Davis
Thos. Styles Starr
Hayes Pearson
Dame Vint Mrs. Bowes
Jane Frost Miss Farwell
Betty Miss Fenton
Meg Miss Davenport
" The Middy Ashore " was also acted. The same bill was an- nounced for Dec. 18, but on the afternoon of that day the house was destroyed by fire. The scenery in the theatre at the time of its destruction came from the old Broadway, Burton's Chambers Street theatre, the Chatham and Old Bowery theatres. The property was owned by ex-Judge James R. Whiting, and was leased for several years by James W. Lingard. In general appearance the house resembled the Old Bowery theatre. Messrs. Fox and Lingard held it at an annual rental of ;jS7,ooo, with the privilege of purchasing it at ;^i6o,ooo, with the term of lease ten years. The fire broke out about half-past four o'clock in the afternoon, and was discovered under the stage. In twenty minutes after the fire was seen the rear wall in Elizabeth Street fell out with a terri- ble crash. The loss was ^150,000, partly covered by insurance.
222 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisee
THE NEW SANTA CLAUS
THE NEW SANTA CLAUS was a place of amusement located at 72 Prince Street, opposite the Metropolitan Hotel, three doors east of Broadway. It was opened Jan. 15, 1859. The man- ager (H. Williams) had been running a Santa Claus at 596 Broad- way, but his lease expired, and he located here. Josephine West, Eva Brent, Miss Franklin, Ed. Warden, Jerry Merrifield (stage manager), and Julia Barton were among the attractions of the place.
HARRY WHITBY & GO'S CIRCUS
THE vacant lots at the southwest corner of Sixth Avenue and Fifteenth Street were often used for open air entertainments, and here Harry Whitby & Go's circus appeared under canvas for a season beginning June i, 1859.
JOE PENTLAND'S CIRCUS
AT the junction of Broadway and Thirteenth Street were other open spaces, and here Joe Pentland's circus began a season under canvas June 6, 1859. Mons. De Bach, Richard Hemmings, Tom King, Painter, and Durand were in the organization. Sam Long was clown, Frank Whittaker ringmaster, and John G. Sloat proprietor and manager.
IRVING HALL
A HOUSE with a varied and picturesque career is Irving Hall, situated on the west side of Irving Place, at the cor- ner of Fifteenth Street. The first entertainment here was a ball on Dec. 20, i860. George Christy's minstrels opened May 21, 1861. For a long time the house was used for balls, lectures, concerts, and miscellaneous entertainments of a high character. It had no stage, but a flat floor with a small gallery. Nully Pieris gave a concert here Sept. 10, 1864, assisted by Mme. d'Angri, Barnetchie, Sig. Abella, Sher. C. Campbell, and William Castle. Fallon's stereopticon was on exhibition Sept. 12 to Oct. i. Mr. Oscanyan lectured here Oct. 3; concerts by Jerome Hopkins Oct. 11, and Gustave Geary Oct. 13. Cordova gave his series of lectures for one week, commencing Nov. 19, 1865; Theodore Thomas' concerts took place Dec. 3, Jan. 3, 7, 17, 1866, and March 30; Strakosch gave a concert April i. Artemus Ward commenced a series of lectures Aug. 28, and his last appearance here was Sept. 5. Mme. Parepa (afterwards Parepa-Rosa) made her American d^but
1866] IRVING HALL 223
here Sept. 1 1 in concert under the management of H. L. Bateman, Carl Rosa, violinist, and E. Danreuther, pianist, made their American debut at the same time. Theodore Thomas' orchestra also appeared. Parepa sang an aria from "Ernani," "The Night- ingale's Trill," and the waltz, "II Baccio. " For three weeks in September, 1866, Prof. M. Hartz, the magician, appeared here. Mr. and Mrs. Howard Paul came Oct. i, making their American debut in an entertainment consisting of a sketch, " Ripples on the Lake ; " the song, " Ship on Fire ; " " The Dream of the Reveller ; " and imitations of Sims Reeves. This was Mrs. Paul's part of the programme. Howard Paul sang "When George III. was King" and " Napoleon III." After a few months they returned to Europe. They revisited this country in October, 1869. Mr. Paul has visited America frequently since then, but not professionally. Mrs. Paul did not return after her second visit. These artists danced the Can-can in an entertainment at Philadelphia, at Concert Hall — the first time it was ever done in this country.
Mrs. Paul was formerly Miss Featherstone. One of her great- est successes was achieved as Capt. Macheath, in "The Beggar's Opera," at the Strand Theatre, London, in 1853, and she repeated it in the same r5le at the Haymarket Theatre, in 1854. In that year she married Howard Paul. A prominent feature in their en- tertainment, called " Patchwork, " was the " Living Photograph of Sims Reeves," given by Mrs. Paul, which was an astonishing re- production of that great tenor's voice, style, manner, and personal appearance, without any degree of caricature. Her voice was a pure contralto, with a compass of three octaves, ranging from A in the bass clef to A in alt, and her lower tones were very rich and powerful. Mrs. Paul returned to the dramatic stage in 1869, at Drury Lane, London, Eng., acting in "Macbeth," Mr. Phelps and Charles Dillon playing Macbeth on alternate nights. She died at London, England, June 6, 1879. Howard Paul was born at Phila- delphia, and made his first appearance on the stage at Bath, Eng- land, in 1854, in a farce written by himself, entitled " My Neighbor Opposite." As an actor and mimic, he hits off his characters with a ready liveliness and ease of manner that at once places him on good terms with his audience. He has written various plays of a light character for the stage.
During this season Irving Hall was occupied by H. L. Bateman with a series of concerts, and among the artists who appeared were Richard Croker, the Formes Brothers, Jehin Prume, A. H. Pease, Mrs. Emma Gillingham Bostwick, Zelda Harrison, Mme. La Comtesse de Ferussac, St. Ann's Sunday-school, Maria Brain- erd, Blind Tom, Mme. De Lussan, George Simpson, Theodore Thomas, Kate McDonald, G. W. Morgan, W. R. Johnston, Trinity Choir, Robt. Elder, the Beethoven society of Yale
224 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cissg
College, the Mendelssohn Union, Olive Logan, and De Cordova in lectures.
During the season of 1867-68 concerts were given by Charles Henry, the minstrel performer, Budworth's minstrels, Lafayette Harrison, Mrs. Agnes de Vere, Mme. Eugenie de Lusan, Ignatz Pollak, Wenzel Kapta, Mrs. Anna Payne, Mrs. Jenny Busk, J. H. Warwick, Mina Geary, Fred Bergener, Mile. Ghioni, W. J. Hill, the Mendelssohn Union, Blind Tom, Fanny Landsman, and Henry Sanderson, and other entertainments by Arthur Sketchley, Walter Hope Wallack, Mrs. Theresa Yelverton, and George VandenhofE. Kinney's diorama, illustrative of Lincoln's funeral ceremonies, was unrolled Aug. 31, 1868, and continued for three weeks. Dur- ing this season concerts were given by Ignatz Pollack, Edward Hoffman, Jenny Kempton, the Mendelssohn Union, C. Henry, Signora Filomena, W. K. Bassford, Mina Geary, Henry Sander- son, and Sig. Manzocchi. Professor Cromwell gave his lecture here with success. A Lodge of Sorrow was held here Sunday afternoon, March 14, 1875, by the B. P. O. Elks. The committee of arrangements were: Geo. J. Green, Henry P. O'Neil, Tony Pastor, Frank Gerard, Charles T. White, Joseph F. Waring, Robert J. Martin, and the writer of these pages. Nothing of note occurred here until Oct. i, 1877, when the hall was opened by John Wild as a variety theatre. It was christened the Grand Central, but business was so bad that it existed just one week. As a concert hall this place lost caste as soon as Steinway Hall was opened, and Irving Hall gradually fell into disuse. The hall was demolished in July, 1888, in order to erect a new German theatre. Gustav Amberg, who had been managing the Thalia (Old Bowery) Theatre, with German dramatic performances, was the builder. The first performance in the new house, which was called "The Amberg Theatre," occurred Dec. i, 1888.
Theodore G. Stein designed, and John and L. Weber built the Amberg Theatre. It has a total seating capacity of twelve hundred and fifty. The stock company consisted of one hundred and twenty members. " Ein Erflog " was the initial performance, repeated Dec. 3. " Tilly " was done Dec. 4, 5. " Farinelli " had its first American production Dec. 20, with Ferdinand Schultz in the title r81e. Max Lube was seen as Don Coschambo, Herr Friese as Pancho, Fraulein Englander as Manuela, and Frau Habrich as Donna Elvir.
Jan. I, 1889, "Prince Methusalem " was seen. August Junker- mann opened Jan. 4 in "Onkel Braesig." "Unser Doctor" was sung. Jan. 28 Sadie Martinot made her first appearance on the German stage, when she acted Bettina in " La Mascotte." August Junkermann appeared Jan. 29, 31, and evenings Feb. 2, 4, 6, 7, in "Unser Doctor." For Junkermann's benefit, Feb. 7, "Aus der
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Franzosenzeit," "Vorn Juristentag. " Sadie Martinet appeared as Bettina Feb. 5, 8. A professional matinee of " The Mascot " oc- curred Feb. 7. Mathilde Cottrelly made her debut here Feb. 9 in "Die Salon Tyrolerin. " On Feb. 13, the "Grand Opera," by Tannhauser, music by Binder. Junkermann closed his engage- ment Feb. 27. Thessa Klinkhammer made her American debut Feb. 28 as Cyprienne, in the German version of "Divorcons;" March i and 2 she appeared in Benedix's " Aschenbroedel. " The season of 1889-90 opened Sept. ig with "Hans Fourchambault. " On Sept. 20 Karl Streitmann, the Vienna tenor, made his Ameri- can debut in "The Gypsy Baron," and on Sept. 21 Ling Bendel, a new soubrette, was seen in " The Seamstress. "
Henrik Ibsen's drama, "Die Stuetzen der Gesellschaft " ("The Pillars of Society "), was given for the first time in America Oct. 26. This was the cast :
Consul Bernick . . . Frl. Weinert
Oscar Frl. Sterneck
Johann Tonnsea . . Herr Eisfeld Ailmar Tonnsen . . . Herr Walter Oberleh Lund . . . Herr Ottbert
Rummel Herr Meyer
Wigland Herr Rauk
Sandstadt Herr Linnhold
Krapp Herr Bach
Auner .... Fraulein Bernick Dina Dorp . . Frau Rummel Frau Dr. Lange . Fraulein Rummel Fraulein Holt Frau Holt . . . Fraulein Lonahesse!
Herr Kierschner . Frl. Christien . . Frl. Burg . Frl. Schmitr Frl. V. Varndal . Frl. Schroeder . . Frl. Bella . . Frl. Kuhn Frl. Leithner
It was repeated Oct. 27 and 28. The week was otherwise filled by Ernst Possart, who gave a performance Oct. 25 in "Drei Braeute auf Einmal," and by matinees Oct. 25, 26, 27, and 28, of "Snow White," and "Cinderella," etc. The house was dark Oct. 23.
Herr Possart reappeared in America Oct. 29 in Lindau's sombre tragedy, " Die Bluthochzeit ; " Oct. 30, in " Friend Fritz ; " Nov. r, as Shylock, in "The Merchant of Venice." He appeared every evening, except Nov. 5, of the week of Nov. 4, as follows: Nov. 4, "Bluthochzeit;" Nov. 6, "The Merchant of Venice;" Nov. 7, 9, " The Judge of Zalamea ;" Nov. 8, " Friend Fritz. " Possart acted "Drei Braeute auf Einmal" ("Three Brides at Once").
The first American performance of " Der Richter von Zalamea " was given Nov. 17 with this cast: Pedro Crespo, Ernst Possart; the King, Herr Meyer; Don Lope de Figuersa, Herr Kierschner; Don Alvaro, Herr Hillman; Don Mendo, Herr Friese; Juan, Herr Eisfeld; Nuno, Herr Rauk; Isabel, Frl. Christien; Ires, Frl. Schroeder ; Chispa, Ling Bendel. " Martha " was sung Dec. 3 when Herr Goosky made his American debut as Lionel. Otto Hegner, the pianist prodigy, gave recitals afternoon of Dec. 9 and II assisted by members of Mr. Amberg's company. On the night of Dec. 8 Johann Strauss' three-act comic opera, " Venetianische
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226 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSgo
Nachte," was sung. Its English version, "A Night in Venice," was made familiar to New Yorkers by the Duff opera company at Daly's theatre a few years before.
Mme. Hermine-Claar-Della, wife of the director of the opera and theatre at Frankfort on the Main, a favorite actress of Berlin, made her American d^but on the night of Jan. i6, 1890, as Coun- tess d'Autreval, in "Der Damenkrieg" (Herr Olfers' German translation of Scribe's "Une Bataille des Dames "), known to us as "The Ladies' Battle," and as Frangoise Dumesnil, in "Die Schauspielerin " (W. Friedrich's adaptation of M. Fournier's one- act comedy, "The Actress"). "Fernande," the German version of Victorien Sardou's drama of that name, was acted Jan. 22, with Mme. Claar-Della as Clotilde, and Else Hoffmann in the title r61e.
"Der Fall Clemenceau " was presented Jan. 27. Feb. 12 was the first American performance of Carl Millocker's three-act comic operetta, " Die Sieben Schwaben " (" The Seven Suabians "), cast as follows :
Junker Otmar . . Karl Streitmann
Stickel Herr Meyer
Kathchen . . Fraulein Zimmermann Emerenzia .... Frau Habrich
Bombastus Herr Rotter
Spakle Herr Schmitz
Hannele . . . Fraulein Englaender
Nicodemus . . Erasmus . . . AUgauerle . . . Gelbfukle Schwab Knopfle Schwab . Spiegle Schwab . Blitz Schwab . .
Herr Sinnhold Herr Horwitz . Herr Friese . Herr Korn Herr Walter Herr Ceroid . Herr Rauk
On Saturday night, Feb. 15, Herr Schubert's German version of "Belle-Maman," called "Die Gute Mama," was acted for the first time in this country.
Herr Possart and Frau Claar-Della were the stars for the week commencing March 3. For his benefit, March 5, Herr Possart played "King Lear." Evening of March 8 saw the first perform- ance in this city of "Familie Meyer," a four-act musical farce, by F. Berent, with music by Herr Wegirn. Herren Walter Friese, Ottbert, and others were in the cast. Ernst Possart did not appear March 10, though billed in "King Lear." "The Meyer Family" was substituted. On March 12 was presented for the first time in America, " Die Ehre " (" Honor "), a four-act drama by Hermann Sundermann.
On April 10 Franz von Suppe's comic opera, " Die Jagd Nach dem Glueck, " for the first time in America in its original German form. The English version of it is known as "Clover." Karl Streitmann sang the r61e of Rudolf; Fraulein Zimmermann, Stella; Fraulein Englaender, the Foster Sister; Herr Friese, Jr., Casimir; and Fraulein Von Varndal, Florine. On April 17, for August Walter's benefit, "Die Nachbarinnen " and "Im Puppenladen" were given, and were also seen April 18 and 19. "Die Nach- barinnen " is from the French, and was here played for the first
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time in this country. " Die Amazone," by Von Moser and Thurn, was given April 29 for the benefit of Herr Ottbert. It had this cast : Plumicke, Herr Rauk ; Grunlich, Herr Friese, Sr. ; Arthur Prinz, Herr Ottbert; Vorberg, Herr Horwitz; Julie, Frl. Kuhn; Rika, Frl. Burg; Marie, Frl. Bella; Frau Schnabel, Frl. Schmitz. " Morilla " was sung for the first time here on May 2, for the bene- fit of Carola Englaender. "Der Verschwender " was given May 7. "Der Zigeuner Baron" was seen May 8, in which Herr Streit- mann appeared. At the beginning of the performance, Carola Englaender, cast for Arsena, became suddenly ill. As it was too late to replace her, the young singer volunteered to appear, though unable to sing. After the first act, Herr Friese, the stage man- ager, appeared in front of the curtain and requested the audience's indulgence. At the matinee May 10 "Morilla" was presented. The week's novelty was found in "Das Gefaehrliche Maedchen," which was done for the first time in this country May 9 as a benefit to Ellen Burg, and was repeated May 10. Ernst Possart made his last appearance in this city May 19, as "King Lear."
The next season commenced Sept. 18, with "Das Bild des Sig- norelli," by Richard Jaffe, performed for the first time in America:
Oscar Waede .... Herr Tauber Fritz Waede .... Herr Stengel
Dr. Keil Herr Meyer
Professor Waede . Herr Kierschner Kammerherr von Grothe Herr Morway
Ella von Seeben . . . Frl. Leithner
PfeifEer Herr Walter
Frau Waede .... Frl. Schmitz Kaethe Frl. Burg
" Der Fall Clemenceau " was given Sept. 19 with Fraulein Neumann as Iza — her first appearance in America. Frau Moser- Sperner and Walter Heydt also made their American debut on this occasion. Paula Loewe made her American debut Sept. 20 as "Drei Paar Schute." On Sept. 24 Karl Streitmann made his reappearance in "Der Zigeuner Baron," and Sept. 25 he was heard in "Die Fledermaus." On that date also, Emma Seebold appeared, after a long absence in Germany. " Der Bethel Student," Sept. 27, was the other opera of the week. The comedy performances were Sept. 26 and matinee of Sept. 27, when Paula Loewe, the new sou- brette, was seen. "Der Bethel Student," night of Sept. 27, served to introduce Mr. Amberg's new tenor, Adolph Phillip, to the New York public. "Die Novize," a musical comedy by F. Zeil, was given Oct. i for the first time in America, with this cast :
Gustav Herr Horwitz
Timoethea Frl. Schmitz
Dr. Mobius von Ingenhof Herr Walter Frau von Giesback Frau Trautmann Severin Holberg, Kapellmeister
Herr Friese, Sr.
Frau Langhofer .... Frl. Werner Fraulein Schneitzhofer . Frl. Varndal Fraulein Reitzenbeck . Frl. Blanche Fraulein Sivori . . Frl. Englaender
Kuhne Herr Rauk
Leontine .... Frl. Paula Loewe
228 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1890
Carl Schultz and three other members of the company which bears his name made their first bow in America Oct. 6 in " Ham- burger Pillen." Those who made their d^but here were Carl Schultz, Herr Mansfield, Fraulein Schultz, and Fraulein Hell- wig. Night of Oct. 9, for the first time in America, Julius Ernst's musical farce, " Hamburger Leiden " was played. Fraulein Leith- ner was unable to appear. Her part was taken at the last moment by Fraulein Werner. Oct. 15 "Villa Friedrichsrue," by Herren Hirschel and Schreirer, was performed for the first time in America. It was repeated Oct. 16, when the Schultz company made their farewell appearance. Night of Oct. 17 Ludwig Fulda's "Die Wilde Jagd," was seen for the first time in America. Oct. 21 " Urial Acosta " was acted, with Herr Morrison in the title r61e, his second appearance, his American debut having occurred Oct. 20 in "Kean." Oct. 23 "Froment, Jr., and Risler, Sr.," trans- lated from the French, was produced. " Das Verwunschene Schloss " ("The Haunted Castle"), a comic opera, was sung Oct. 28 for the first time in nine years, in this city. "Eva," a drama by Voss, was done Oct. 31, for the first time in America, and with this cast:
Graf Duren . . . Herr Kierschner
Elimar Herr Ditrichstein
Hartwig Herr Kruger
Past Schoeller . . . Herr Stengel
Hempel Herr Rauk
Braun Herr Braun
Wolf Herr Morway
Dr. Weller . A Doctor . . Frau Hartwig Frau Schoeller Frau Hempel Toinette . . Eva . . .
Herr Walter Herr Ei chert Frl. Schmitz Frl. Werner Frl. Varndal Frl. Neumann Frl. Leithner
The Muenchener, Munich's Germany company of actors and actresses, arrived in America Oct. 31. The company numbered thirty-four. Its best known members were Herr Amand Kolbe, Herr Sageder, Fraulein Amelie Schoenchen, Herr Karl Swoboda, Herr Adolph Ernst, Fraulein Kathie Thaller, Fraulein Bertha Weber, Fraulein Marie Nebauer, Herr Baleither, Herr Fischer, and Herr Weyrauther. Their first American performance occurred Nov. 5 in "Der Herrgottschnitzer von Ammergau." This con- tinued until Nov. 24, when "Almonrausch und Edelweiss" was presented, with this cast :
Der Buhelbauer . . . Amand Kolbe
Mentl Karl Ernst
Reinthaler Max Selus
Gaberl Franz Ressner
Der Hies von Buhel . Max Hofpener Der Brigadier . . Alois Weyrauther
Quasi Robert Balatha
Der Prugel Peterl . . Karl Swoboda
Evi Betty MuUer
Kordi Kathie Thaller
Vroni Marie Nebauer
Margareth . . . Amelie Schoenchen
"Der Pfarrer von Kirchfeld " had its first American perform- ance Dec. 4. " In Austragetubschen " was presented Dec. 8 for
iSgi]
THE AMBERG THEATRE
229
the opening of the last week of the Muenchener company. It was its first American representation. The play translated into Eng- lish would be "The Old Homestead." The cast was:
Der Alte Lehurhofbauer, Karl Swoboda Waterl .... Amelie Schoenchen
Mattl .
Wally
Natzel
Plauer
Der Stiglschuster
. . . Karl Ernst . . Betty Muller . . Emil Hoefer Alois Weyrauther Max Hofpener
Die Schusternaudle . Kathie Thaller Der Lercheubauer . . Karl Meyer
Evi Leni Scheller
Veri Max Selus
Moni Emma Grimm
Girgl Alfonse Fischer
Michl Karl Paschner
"Der Prozesshaus'l " was given for the first time in America. The Muenchener closed Dec. 13. "Die Beste Kur" was played Dec. 15, in which the regular company of the Amberg made their re-entree. "The Lost Paradise" was seen Dec, 18 for the first time in America. The cast was :
Kraus Herr Rauk
Franke Herr Meyer
Frau Bernardi . . . Fr. Trautmann
Frau Heideck Frl. Bella
Reeke Fr. Dobers
Edith Frl. Neumann
Julius Bernardi . . Herr Kierschner Richard von Ottendorf,
Herr Ditrichstein Hans Arndt .... Herr Kruger Dr. Heideck . . . Herr Reischert
Weber Herr Morway
Muhlberg Herr Walter
"The Lost Paradise " was repeated Dec. 22, 23, " Cinderella " was given Dec. 25. Dec. 28 Josef Brackl, tenor, from Munich, Bav., made his American debut in "The Haunted Castle;" Dec. 29, "Nanon" was sung; Dec. 30, "Belle H61^ne;" Dec. 31, " Fledermaus ; " Jan. i, 1891, "Three Pair of Shoes," with Paula Loewe in the cast, was presented.
Matinees were given every afternoon (except Friday) during the week of Dec. 29. " Poor Jonathan " (called here " Der Arme Jonathan ") was sung in its original German form, for the first time in America, Jan. 2 and had this cast:
Vandergold Jonathan Tripp Tobias Quikly . Catalucci . . Prostolone . . Prof. Dryander Graf Nowalsky Holmes . . .
, Herr Philipp
Herr Brakl
. . Herr Rauk
Herr Geleng
Herr Meyer
Herr Sinnhold
. Herr Horwitz
. Herr Morway
Billy Herr Gerold
Franpois Herr Hirsch
Molly Frl. Loewe
Big Frl. Koenig
Hunt Frl. Hecht
Grant Frl. Lina
Arabella Frl. Kuhn
Harriet Frl. Seebold
On Jan. 21 "Oh, Diese Maenner!" was given for the benefit of Fraulein Eugenie Schmitz. The Muenchener ensemble reap- peared Jan. 22.
Karl Streitmann reappeared Jan. 26, when " Der Doppelgaenger, " a comic opera, had its first performance in America, " Der Huet- tenbesitzer" ("The Iron Master") was produced Feb. 3. "Ul-
230 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D891
timo" was given Feb. 5. "Hanns in Glueck," by Max Grube and Franz Koppel-Ellfeld, Feb. 12. "Der Meineidfauer," Feb. 17; "Der Verschwender " ("The Spendthrift") Feb. 23; "Der Kriegeplan," Feb. 25. The German Press Club had a benefit Feb. 27. The performance began with "Die Journalisten," in which Herr von der Osten played the principal part. After the first act of the play Frau Herbert Forster sang "Gestaudniss," Fraulein Jahn gave "Meine Liebist grun wie de Fliederbusch, " and Herren Ruchmann, Gudehus, and Behrens sang selections. An act of " Einlagen " was also given by Herren Streitmann and Philipp and Fraulein Loewe.
"Das Maedel Mit Geld," for the first time in America, March 16. "Sodom's Ende" ("the End of Sodom") was produced March 20, first time in America, with Herren Preschtler, Frau Janikow, and Frl. Burg in the principal r61es.
Adele Epstein made her d^but March 24 as Harriet in "Der Arme Jonathan;" "Gespenster" ("The Ghost") March 27; Frau Trautmann, Fraulein Burg, Herr Kierschner, Herr Walter, and Herr Preschtler were also in the cast. "Silly Wives" (Flotte Weiber) was seen March 31. "Die Hauben-lachen " was given April 4, for the first time in America. Langenthal, Herr Kruger; Herrmann, Herr Ditrichstein ; Schmalenbach, Herr Rauk; Paul Ihlefeld, Herr Reischert; Juliane, Frl. Leithner; Schmalenbach, Frl. Schmitz; Lene, Frl. Burg. The final performance of the Muenchener company was on April 11 in " Der Meineidfauer^ " "Die Sonne," April 16, first time in this country. Clemens, Herr Meyer; Arnold, Herr Sinnhold; Gregor, Herr Kruger; Victor, Herr Ditrichstein; Mathilde, Frl. Leithner; Mariette, Frl. Marie Vetti; Sabine, Frl. Burg; Dora, Frau Trautmann. "Das Alte Lied" ("The Old Story") was presented April 24, for the first time in America: Eduard Rahden, Herr Ditrichstein; Wehlan, Herr Sinnhold; Fritz Nicolai, Herr Stengel; Luckhard, Herry Meyer; Anna Nowack, Frl. Paula Loewe. " Girofle-Girofla" was sung April 30. The season closed May 9 but the house re- opened May 16 for a benefit to Amberg, when " Gasparone " was produced.
In June, Mr. Amberg was adjudged bankrupt, and his creditors met to discuss his affairs. After considerable negotiation a deci- sion was reached on July 14. Papers were signed by Gustav Am- berg on one side and Leo Von Raven and Max Mansfield on the other, by which Amberg made over to the other gentlemen all his rights, title, and interests in the lease of the Amberg Theatre, and all the equipment and personal property in payment of the entire arrears of rent and taxes up to Aug. i. The new lessees attended to the financial arrangements and Mr. Amberg was left as the man- ager. The theatre reopened Oct. i, 1891, with "Romeo and
^
1890 THE AMBERG THEATRE 231
Juliet. " This was the American debut of Josef Kanitz as Romeo. "Die Ehre" (" Honor") was given Oct. S ; "Der Huettenbesitzer " was seen Oct. 7, when Seraphine Detschy made her American d6but. " Galeoto " was played Oct. 9 for the first time in America with Kanitz as Ernesto ; " Die Shone Ungarin " was given Oct. 19; "Der Menonete," Oct. 22; "Kabaleund Liebe "(" Love and Intrigue"), Oct. 26, 27, and matinee, Oct. 31; Kanitz as Ferdi- nand; and "Falsache Helige," Oct. 29, 31. Emma Moerdes first appeared here Nov. 2 in " The Gypsy Baron ; " " The Beggar Stu- dent " was sung Nov. 3 ; and " Fledermaus, " Nov. 4.
Herr Adalbert Matkowsky, of the Court Theatre, Berlin, first acted in America Nov. 5 in " Die Raeuber " (" The Robbers "), as Karl Moor. "Das Lebeneen Traum " ("Life's Dream "), Nov. 7, Matkowsky as Sigismund; "Maria Stuart," Nov. 9, Matkowsky as Mortimer; "Anna Lisa," Nov. 11 and matinde, Nov. 14; "Uriel Acosta," Nov. 12; "Othello," Nov. 13; "Die Karlsochueler," Nov. 14; "Die Schauspieler des Kaisers," Nov. 16-17, ^^^ the first time in this city. The afterpiece was " Cavalleria Rusti- cana ; " " Anna Lise " and " Cavalleria Rusticana " were given Nov. 18; "Taming of the Shrew" and "Cavalleria," Nov. 19-20, and matinde, Nov. 21; "The Emperor's Players," Nov. 21; "Clarigo," Nov. 23; Matkowsky and Kanitz acted in "Julius Caesar," Nov. 24; and "Der Neue Herr" was seen Nov. 27, for the first time in America. "The Emperor's Players" was repeated Dec. 2. Herr Kirch, was cast for the part of Maurice Bernard Dec. 2, but he did not appear, although his name was on the programme. At the last moment Herr Weigel was substituted for him. This was the culmination of a dramatic breeze which had been blowing around the Amberg Theatre stage ever since Fraulein Moerdes, whose name in private life is Frau Kirch, failed to meet the man- agerial expectations of her work in " The Gypsy Baron. " She had an opportunity, however, to redeem herself as Lola in " Cavalleria Rusticana," but she did even worse then than before. "Hamlet" was given Dec. 4, and "Pension Schoeller," Dec. 5. Herr Mat- kowsky took his farewell Dec. 7, when " Katchen Von Heilbronn " was acted. " Am Tage des Gerichts " was seen Dec. 14, when Fraulein Brentano first acted here. " Die Carbonari " was done Dec. 16-17; "Von Stufe Zu Stufe," Dec. 18. The theatre was closed Dec. 24. "The Seven Ravens" was given Dec. 25, when the Excelsior ballet and pantomime company, also Maxoli and the Olivier' s Gypsy dancers appeared. Matindes were given Dec. 26, 28, 29, 30, 31, and Jan. i, 1892. Mile. Amelia Bossignang was premihe danseuse. Joseph Kanitz reappeared Dec. 26 in "The Juedin Von Toledo." Von Raven and Mansfield now bought the lease of the property. Kanitz closed Dec. 31 with "Sodom's Ende. " Mr. Amberg was able to cast the play with three of the
232 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSga
artists who " originated " their parts when the play was first given in Berlin — Herr Kanitz as Willy Janilsow, Herr Ranzenberg as Kramer, and Frl. Detschy as Adah.
Frl. Marie Barkany appeared here Jan. 4, 1892, for the first time in America, acting Fedora in the play of that name. " Die Waise Von Lowood" ("Jane Eyre") was given Jan. 6; "Fedora," Jan. 7; "Taming of the Shrew," Jan, 8; "Francilla," Jan. 9; "Der Vereins Praesident," first time, Jan. 11; "Adrienne Le- couveur," Jan. 13, Frl. Barkany in title r61e, one of her strongest parts. "Faust" was given Jan. 14; "Dora," Jan. 16; "Mary Stuart," Jan. 18; "Die Schulreiterin " (" The Circus Rider"), and "Taming of the Shrew," Jan. 19; "Die Jung Frau Von Orleans," was seen Jan. 20; "Fifi," Jan. 29. This was a German version of MM. Meilhac and Halevy's "La Boule." The play had been seen in English in this city under the title of " Husbands and Wives." "Phillipine Welser," was produced Feb. 4; "Deborah," Feb. 10; "Die Bluthochzeit, " Feb. 12, for A. Eggeling's benefit. Marie Barkany closed her engagement Feb. 13, in "Alexandria."
Anna Haverland made her d^but Feb. 16 as Brunhilde. " Hedda Gabler" was first acted here Feb. 17. Paula Loewe had a benefit Feb. 19 in "Poor Jonathan," when Marie Forrest made her d^but as Harriet. Herr Emil Thomas appeared March 2 in " Mein Leo- pold." " Der Kunst-Bacillus " was given March 3 for the first time in America. "Der Milliened-Bauer " ("Millionaire Peasant") was played March 10. It was written for Emil Thomas. A bene- fit for the widow of Richard Koenig was given March 14. The programme was: The Standard Quartet. "The Salt Cellar," "Little Tuesday," Jennie Yeamans, Emil Thomas, Lydia Yea- mans, Judith Berolde, a scene from "Blue Jeans," Loie Fuller, the second act of " Die Fledermaus," and a new one-act play by Eleanor Merron, "The Last Rehearsal," then acted for the first time on any stage, with Miss Merron (Mrs. Archie Cowper) in the cast; "Unruhige Leiten oder Litze Memoiren," a farce by Emil Poht, was first acted in America March 17; "Der Compagnon" was seen March 24; "Die Himmelsleiter," April 6; "Der Volksfeind," April 8; "Georgette," April 15. Week of April 18 the house was closed. Frl. Brentone first acted in this city April 2$ in " Der Bethel Student ; " " Sein Bester Freund" (" His Best Friend ") was done May 7; "Der Ratzenf anger, " an operetta by A. Neuen- dorf? was sung May 10. The season closed May 14, with a benefit to Gustav Amberg. Among the attractions were a one-act comedy, "Ein delikater Auftrag," in which Herr Ditrichstein appeared, and Loie Fuller, in dances; Frl. Georgine v. Janauschousky's singing in "Der Freischiitz" was the feature of the evening. "Der Arme Jonathan," in which Herr Phillip, Herr Lube, Herr Sinnhold, and Frl. Paula Loewe were seen, closed the programme.
i8g2|]
THE AMBERG THEATRE
233
For Neuendorff's benefit, May 16, his opera "Der Ratzenfanger von Hamoln " was presented. Neuendorf! himself led the orches- tra. The first performance on any stage of a three-act operetta, "Der Minstrel," the music by Herr Neuendorf! and the libretto by Heinrich Urban, also took place with this cast :
Meredith, Graf von Aberdeen
Herr Ceroid Lady Cathaleen .... Frl. Boner Nancy . Georgine von Janauschousky
Betsy Frl. Schmitz
Duncan Herr Phillip
Sir Tom TuUamore . Herr Sinnhold
Hiram McFarland . . . Herr Lube
Mawdlin Frl. Reichardt
Barnaby Herr Runk
Robin Peabody . . . Herr Walter
Mey Frl. Schlag
Owen O'Neale .... Herr Gelleng
Paula Loewe was seen in the title r61e of "Nanon," May 27. Loie Fuller did her serpentine dance. " The Black Hussar " was sung June 3 for the benefit of Ludwig, who in consequence of ill health had retired from the stage. Mathilde Cottrelly appeared June 13 in "Di Nabterin " ("The Seamstress").
The next season opened Saturday night, Oct. i with "Die Cameliendame " (" Camille "). A benefit was given Oct. 3 for the Hamburg sufferers from the cholera. " Hamlet " was presented Oct. 4 with this cast: Claudius, Herr Sinnhold; Hamlet, Herr Morisson; Polonius, Herr Walter; Horatio, Herr Weigel; Laertes, Herr Hillman; Ghost, Herr Meyer; Queen, Frl. Burmeister; Ophelia, Frl. Leithner. "Die Memoiren des Teufels," Oct. 6. Emil Thomas with his company from Berlin commenced Oct. 10 in"Unsere Don Juans," cast thus: Hugo Schwalbe, Emil Thomas; Clarchen, Olga Walburg; Lena, Margarethe Gallus; Krewitz, Fritz Behrend. " Leute von Heute " (" People of the Day ") was seen Oct. 21, for the first time in America. " Ein Verdachtiger Schwie- gershon" ("A Suspected Son-in-law") was played Oct. 27, first time in America. It is well known in English as " The Family Circle." " Schmitterlinge " ("Butterflies") was first acted in America Nov. 3 with this cast:
Kuntze Siefried Basch
Martha .... Hermine Heinrich
Foppel Max Walden
MuUer Adolf Alfredo
Jacob Karl Koenig
Muthing .... Franz von Metsch Ella Heta Lange
Hector Kanaper . . . Emil Thomas
Emmeline Sofie Urban
Flora Margarethe Gallus
Petrowitsch Lasarowitsch, Emil Berla
Salina Willy Walden
Naschka Olga Walburg
Hans Heller . . . Richard Georg Leo Lerche Fritz Behrend
"Goldfische" ("The Railroad of Love") was played Nov. 10; "Lachelnde Gesichter " ("Smiling Faces") was given Nov. 14- 15, also "We Take in Foreigners Too," and "Viennese in Berlin." "Die Kinder der Excellenz" was seen Nov. 16, for the first time in America. "Mam'zelle Nitouche" was presented
•34
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1893
Nov. 18, and "Heisses Blut," Dec. 2, also for the first time in America.
"Die Reise Durch Marchenland" ("A Trip Through Fairy- land ") was given Dec. 14 with Doctor Gotthard Hansen as Otto Meyer. Lucier Veidler, first soprano, from the Theatre an der Wien, Vienna; Charlotte Tischler, first soprano from the Royal Opera House, Vienna; Julia Wallner, first soprano, from Berlin Opera House; Mathilde Severin, Helen Land, and Mina Agte, sopranos; Wilhelm Bauer, first tenor, from the Theatre an der Wien ; Carl Schulz, comedian and first tenor, from the Friedrich Wilhelm Stadt Theatre, Berlin; Joseph Greven, first tenor, Carl Bartl, first baritone, from Berlin; Leopold Deutsch, first come- dian, from the Wallner Theatre, Berlin, and Ernst Peterson, with a chorus of twenty-four women and twenty-four men, made their debut Dec. 26 in the comic opera "Der Vogelhaendler. " The fiftieth performance occurred Feb. 13, 1893. "Das Sonntags- kind " followed, March 2. This opera was heard at the Casino as "Under the Child of Fortune." The German Press Club benefit took place March 20 when Manager Conried appeared as "Gringoire." "Die Fledermaus " was sung March 21-22, and " Gasparone " March 23, 24, 25. Ludovica Wallner made her American d6but in " Fledermaus ; " " Der Vogelhaendler " was given March 27; "Madame Angot," April 7; "Poor Jonathan," April 10; " Die Sorglosen," April 13 ; Carl Grube made his Ameri- can d^but April 15 in "Die Sternschuppe " ("The Shooting Star"). " The Man in the Moon " was presented April 26. The season closed April 29. On May i the management changed hands and the name of the theatre was changed to The Irving Place Theatre.
IRVING PLACE THEATRE
THE Columbia College dramatic club opened, their spring per- formances May 8 at the house now known as the Irving Place Theatre, with "Ivanhoe," by Benj. Aymar and John Regi- nald Blake, Columbia Law School, '92. The burlesque had this cast:
Sir Brian . . Albert La Montague Cedric . . George Newell Hamlin
Ivanhoe William F. Wall
Isaac of York Giles Augustus Taintor
Wamba Joseph G. Lamb
Oswald . . . John Reginald Blake King Richard
Richard Stockton Emmet, Jr.
Prince John . Arthur Middleton Balke De Bracy .... John B. Brazier
Athelstane Torre Bueno
Rowena .... Edward Rush Duer Rebecca . . Melvin Henry Dalberg Premifere Danseuse, Louis Fitzgerald, Jr. Second Danseuse
Bertram de Lancey Drake
The regular season opened Oct. 2 with Heinrich Conried as manager. The programme contained an open letter in which Mr.
1894: IRVING PLACE THEATRE 235
Conried philosophized over past failures in the attempt to success- fully maintain in this, "the third German city of the world," a permanent German theatre. " Grosstadtluft " (" The Air of the Metropolis"), adapted by Augustin Daly and called "A Test Case," was the initial performance. "Heimath" was produced Oct. 9; "Die Strohwittwe" ("Grass Widow") was given, fol- lowed by the farce "Der Sechste Sinn;" "Lolo's Father" came Oct. 26; "Der Lebemann," Nov. 2; "Gefallen Engel," Nov. 9; "Unser Frauen," Nov. 16, for the first time in America; "Gefal- len Engel " (" Fallen Angels "), Nov. 20. " Der Vogelhaendler " was sung Dec. 4 by the Ferenczy opera company. The cast was the same as before except that Ernst Monti appeared as Stanislaus ; "Matteo Falcone," a one-act comic opera was done Dec. 18; and was followed by " I Pagliacci. " " Gasparone " was given for the balance of the week. " Lachelnde Erben " (" Laughing Heirs ") was played Dec. 25 for the first time in America.
The Ferenczy company commenced the last week of their stay on Jan. i, 1894, with "Lachelnde Erben." " Das Letzte Wort " ("The Last Word") was presented Jan. 8 for the first time in America in German. "Schuldig" ("Guilty") was seen Jan. 15 for the first time in America. " Weilchen Presser " was given matinee and night of Jan. 26. " Gefallen Engel " was seen Jan. 22, and matinee Jan. 27; "Wohlthatige Frauen" ("Charitable Women ") Jan. 3, and matinee, Feb. 3, for the first time in four- teen years. " Der Schwabenstreiche " (7-20-8) and Feb. 3. " Der Talisman," by Ludwig Fulda, was given Feb. 7; "Zwei Glueck- liche Tage" ("Two Happy Days");Feb. 22. "The Perjurer," for the matinee, Feb. 22. Heinrich Conried appeared March 8 in "Der Prozesshansel. " " The Crucifix-Carver of Ober-Ammergau " was seen March 15, 20, 21, with Herr Strausmann in the title r61e. " The Talisman " was repeated March 23 ; " Cyprienne " ("Divorcons"), March 25; "Sauvian Pranks," March 26; "Two Happy Days," March 27-30 and April 2; "Tender Relations," March 28, and matinee, March 31; "Fallen Angels," March 29, and "Dr. Klaus," March 31; Grete Gallus first appeared here April 3 in "A Night Off;" Conried's last appearance was April 4 in "Dr. Klaus." "Die ArmeLowin" (" Les Lionnes Pauvres") was given April $, for the first time in America. An American version of this comedy called " Our Country Cousins " was seen at the Lyceum Theatre ; " Die Arme Lowin " was repeated April 9, 10, 11; "Das Heirathsnest " was seen April 12, 13, 14, for the first time in America. " Ein Schritt Vom Wege " (" A Step from the Road "), April 26. The season closed April 30 with " Das Stiftungfest."
The next season opened Saturday night, Sept. 29, with "Die Karlschueler," Oct. i. "Der Andere"("The Other Man") was
236 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1895
played for the American d6but of Max Bira as Dr. Hallers. " Mauerbluemchen " (" A Wall Flower ") was seen Oct. 4 for the American debut of Max Hanseler as Justus Woermann. " Heimath " was given Oct. 11, when Lucie Freisinger made her American d^but as Magda. "Wohlthaet er der Menscheit " ("Mankind's Bene- factor ") was produced Oct. 18, for the first time in America. Its author was Felix Phillippi. The fourth centennial Hans Sachs celebration was arranged by Manager Conried for Nov. $. Anton Seidl led the orchestra, strengthened for the occasion. Emil Fisher, William Stephens, Paul Siegel, Ida Klein, and Marie Maurer sang solos. The overture of "Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg," opened the festival. "Von der Lisabetha, Eines Kaufherrn Tochter," was presented. The solos from " Die Meister- singer" were rendered by Messrs. Fisher, Stephens, and Siegel and the Misses Ida Klein and Marie Maurer. "Der Fahrende Schueler " was produced in the original, and with the same early methods: Rudolf Senius playing the title r61e; Max Hanseler, the farmer; and Adolph Link, the farmer's wife.
" Der Compagnon " was given Nov. 8 with Adolph Link as August Voss. Nov. 9 was Schiller's birthday, and it was cele- brated by a performance of his " Marie Stuart. " " Der Herr Sen- ator," by Schoenthan and Kadelburg, was seen Nov. 19, and ran all the week, except Nov. 20, when Minna von Barnhelm appeared in "Die Karl Schuler," matinee, Dec. i. "Der Veilchen Presser" was given at the matinde, Nov. 29 and " Der Unglaubige Thomas " (" Doubting Thomas ") was played Nov. 29. " Das Zweite Ge- sicht" ("The Second Farce"), the original of "Miss Million," was seen Dec. 6 for the first time in America. "Jugend," by Max Halbe, Dec. 13, also for the first time in America; "Die Kleine Frau " (" Little Wife "), by F. Phillippi, was played Dec. 27, for the first time on any stage. It had this cast : Robert Larum, Max Bira; Charlotte, Charlotte Durand; Lothar von Roggenbach, Herman Schmelzer; Martin Schluter, Adolf Link. "Heimath" was repeated Dec. 28 at popular prices; "Blau," Dec. 31, also " Der Hofmeister in One Thousand Aengsten " (" The Headmaster in a Thousand Difficulties "), and " Eine Verkommene Frau " (" An Ideal Wife"). "Mit Vergnuegen," by Gustav von Moser, was seen Jan. 7, 1895; "Die Kleine Frau," Jan. .8; "Jugend," Jan. 9; "Die Orientreise," ("Trip to the East"), by Blumenthal and Kadelburg, was played Jan. 10, first time in America; as "The Orient Express " this comedy was produced by Augustin Daly at his theatre here. " Wilhelm Tell " was given Jan. 1 1 and matinee Jan. 12 at popular prices; " Vasantasena, " from Emil Pohl's "King Sudraka " was presented Jan. 24 for the first time in America. "Papageno," by Rudolf Kneisel came Feb. 7; "Goldfische" ("Railroad of Love"), Feb. 21; "Ein Palast Revolution" ("A
1896] IRVING PLACE THEATRE 237
Home Rebellion") was given Feb. 28, for the first time in America.
"Ohne Geleut" ("Without Bellringing "), March 7, 1895; "Niobe," a German version of that play, March 21 ; Hilma Schue- ten made her d^but March 29 in " Die Waise Von Lowood " ("Jane Eyre"). "Sedan Friedrichsrul, " by John Weiman, was seen April I for the first time on any stage : Wilhelm I., Emil Otto; Napo- leon III., Mathieu Pfeil. "Liebe Vonhuete " ("The Love of a Day "), by Robert Misch, was acted April 1 1, and " Die Librente," by Gustav von Moser, April 22 ; the season closed April 30 with " Die Journalisten. " During the evening news came that the author of this play had died in Wiesbaden. The Metropolitan amateur club, together with the Metropolitan amateur orchestra, gave a performance of the opera of " Patience " here May 14.
The next season began Oct. i with "Graf Essex," when Bruno Geidner first acted in America; "Der Herr Senator" came Oct. 2, and " Der Schmetterling-krieg " (" Battle of the Butterflies "), Oct. 6. This was the American debut of Gusti Forst ; " Ferreol " was seen Oct. 10. An adaptation of this play was seen at the Lyceum Theatre in this city as "The Marquis;" "Graf Essex" was repeated Oct. 11; "Ferreol" Oct. 12, with the American d^but of Marie Reichardt ; " Barfuessige Fraulein " was seen Oct. 17; and "Der Hexenkessel" ("Wizard's Ravine"), Oct. 24, for the first time on any stage. Franziska Huss then made her first appearance on any stage. " Zwei Waff enschilder " (" Two Coats of Arms") was presented Nov. 7, for the first time in America; "Die Rauber " came Nov. 9, with the reappearance of Heinrich Conried as Franz Moor; "Zwei Waffen" was given Dec. 2 for the twenty- fifth time, and "Die Sternschnuppe " ("The Shooting Star"), by G. von Moser and O. Girndt, with Max Bird as Dr. West, Frl. Von Romanowsk as his wife, and Hubert Reusch as Hugo. " Ge- fallen Engel" was seen Dec. 7; "Drei Engel im House" ("A Home with Three Angels "), Dec. 12, for the first time in America.
"Zum Wohlthaetigen Zweck" ("For Charity's Sake") was pre- sented Dec. 19, for the first time in America. Amateurs acted " Heinrich Heine " Dec. 20, for the benefit of the Heine Monument Fund; "Die Fledermaus" was sung Dec. 25, 26, and 28. Adolf Link, who was the original Franke in Vienna, was in the cast here; "Fernan's Ehecontract" ("Fernand's Marriage Contract") was given Dec. 31; "Der Dornenweg " ("Thorny Path"), by Felix Phillippi, was seen Jan. 9, 1896, for the first time in America. "Glueck Bei Frauen " ("Luck in Love") was played Jan. 16; "William Tell" was done Jan. 17 at popular prices, with Mathieu Pfeif in the title r61e; " Sie Wird Gekuesst " (" She Gets a Kiss ") was seen Jan. 23; "Die Ueberzaehligon " ("Superfluous Ones"), Jan. 30. "Nachruhm," Feb. 6, for the first time in America;
238 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D897
"Comtesse Gucki," Feb. 27, with Adolf Link as Alois. This was its first performance in America in German. "Der Grosse Komet" ("The Great Comet"), came March 19; "Das Hunger- loos" ("Starvation") was given March 26, for the first time in America; "Romeo and Juliet" was played March 27; "Lottery Ticket," March 28. " Die Weber " (" Weavers ") was acted April i; "Der Militaerstaat," April 2; "Der Herr Senator," April 9, when Geo. Engels made his American debut in the title r61e. " Die Kinder der Excellenz " came April 13 ; " Krieg Im Friesden," April 14; and "College Crampton," April 20, for the first time in America. Geo. Engels gave his last performance here May 2, in " Dr. Klaus. " The season closed May 9.
The next regular season began Oct. i, 1896, with "Die Offizielle Frau," an adaptation of " My Official Wife." Adele Hartwig made her American ddbut on this occasion. " Goldregen " (" Gold Rain ") was seen Oct. 15;" Seine Gewesene " (" His Late Wife") was played Oct. 22, for the first time in America. " Maria Stuart " was seen Oct. 23; "Die Erste," Oct. 29; and "Papa Nitsche," Nov. $, for the first time in America; "Die Beruehmte Frau" ("Famous Woman "), Nov. 19. This play had been done in English as "The Great Unknown." "Gebildete Menschen" ("Educated People") was done Nov. 25, for the first time in America; "Der Weg Zum Herzen" ("The Way to the Heart"), by Adolph L. Aronge, was seen Dec. 17; "Love and Intrigue" came Dec. 18; "Der Rabenvater" ("His Absent Boy"), Dec. 31; "Das Einmal- eins," by Oscar Blumenthal, was presented Jan. 14, 1897, for the first time in America, with Adolf Link, Hubert Reusch, and Jenny Loibel in the cast. Heinrich Conried appeared Jan. 15 in " Die Raueber. " " Wer War s " (" Who was it ? "), by Felix Phil- lippi, was produced Jan. 21 ; " Das Eigene Blut " (" His Own Flesh and Blood "), by F. von Zobelitz, was done Jan. 28; " Das Lampen- gesindel" ("Bohemians"), by Ernst von Wolzogen, Feb. 4, and " Tata-Totoa, " adapted from the French by Victor Leon, with music' by Banes. "Die Wilde Jagd" ("The Wild Chase"), by Brentano and Tellheim, had its first American production March 6; "Graefin Fritz," by Blumenthal, came March 13, for the first time in this country; "Neues Leben" was seen March 16, for the first time on any stage; " Brockspruenge " ("Funny Capers") came March 25 for the first time in America.
Frau Agnes Sorma made her American debut at this theatre April 12, in "Nora" ("Doll's House"); "Liebelei" ("Flirta- tion") followed; "Dora" ("Diplomacy") was played April 19; "Chic" was seen April 22 for the first time in America; "Die Versunckene Glocke" (" The Sunken Bell "), by Gerhart Haupt- raann, was presented April 29, with Rauteuderlein, Agnes Sorma; Heinrich, Herman Schmelzer, and Magda, Auguste Burmeister.
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Frau Sorma took her farewell May 4, as Lorle in "Dorf und Stadt."
The next season began Sept. 30, 1897, with "Die Goldene Eva" (" The Golden Eva "), in rhymed verse, by Franz von Schoenthan and F. Koppel-Ellfeld. Camilla Marbach as Eva, and Herr Hanno as Von Schwetzingen made their New York ddbut. " Kabale und Liebe" ("Love and Intrigue") was played Oct. 8; Oct. 11 " Jourfix " (" A Day at Home "), an old German play, was produced. In the second act of this play Manager Conried introduced the members of his comic opera company, consisting of Milla Barry, Olga D'Estree, Martha Glueck, Riesa Stella, Jean Felix, Edmund Hanno, and Alfred Liehan, all of whom were heard here for the first time. "Jane Eyre" was seen Oct. 13, Ednard Posanski mak- ing his American debut as Lord Rochester; Oct. 14, and balance of the week " Mme. Sans Gene " was given, with Anna Braga in the title r61e, and Emil Marx, as Napoleon ; " Die Mutter " (" The Mothers") was presented Oct. 26 for the first time in America. Heinrich Conried appeared Oct. 30 as Murzelsepp in " Der Pfarrer ; " Nov. 4, " Die Lachtaube " (" The Cooing Dove "), an operetta by Eugen von Taund, libretto by Alexander landesberg and Leo Stein, was sung for the first time. In this Julie Kopacsy, Adolf Perius, and Riesa Stella made their first appearance in America. Nov. 10 "Die Lachtaube" was given with Kopacsy as Helena and Perius as Marjau; " Waldmeister," by Gustave Davis, music by Johann Strauss, was sung Nov. 29.
On Dec. 20 "Die Einzige" ("The Only One"), by M. Petzold, was presented; "Hans Huckebein," by O. Blumenthal and G. von Kadeburg, which is the original of " Number Nine, or the^, Lady of Ostend," was played Jan. 6, 10, 12, and 14, 1898; "Die Fleder- maus" was sung Jan. ii, 13, and 15, with Julie Kopacsy as Adele; "The Passing Regiment" was seen matinee, Jan. 15; "Die Giger- -lin von Wien " (" The Vienna Dudes ") was done Jan. 20; " Ascher- mittwoche " (" Ash Wednesday ") was played first time in this city Feb. 8; "Die Bruder" ("The Brothers"), by Paul Lindau; "Die Logenbruder " (" Lodge Members "), by Lauss and Kraatz, were given Feb. 17 for the first time in America. Conried's benefit and twenty-fifth anniversary of his stage debut took place Feb. 23, when he acted De Banville in " Gringoire ; " also appearing in the second act of " The Bat " and " The Strike of the Smiths ; " "Die Rothe Brieftasche " ("The Red Wallet"), by Franz Csep- reghgi, German adaptation by Alex. Rosen, was produced March 9. Agnes Sorma reappeared March 14 in "The Doll's House," and March 17, for the first time in America, in " Madchentraum " ("A Maiden's Dream"), by Max Bernstein; "Untreu," by Roberto Bracco, German version by Otto Eisenschultz, was given March 21. Sorma acted Rauteuderlein March 24 in "Die Versunckene
240 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1899
Glocke " (" The Sunken Bell ") ; " Divorcons " was acted March 28, with Sorma as Katherine; March 31, "Taming of the Shrew;" "Die Kleinen Laemmer " ("The Little Lambs"), for the first time in America, April 2. "Die Wettshwimmer " was offered April 20 for the first time in America ; " The Sunken Bell " was repeated April 26; "Konigs Kinder" ("King's Children ") was seen April 29 for the first time in America. Agnes Sorma took her farewell May 9 as Jane Eyre in Charlotte Birch-Pfeiffer's dramatization of Charlotte Bronte's novel.
The next season began Sept. 15, 1898, with "The Golden Horse- shoe," by Robert Breitenbach, and thus cast:
Harry Tall Max Walter
Will B. Gay . . . Selma Goemer
Rosa Toni Meister
Sharpe Herrmann Ring
Eva .... Mrs. Elise Ebert Lau
McKee Kraft Walton
Rob Adolf Zink
Bob Franz Ebert
Eulailie Bertha Jaeger
Tootsie Helene Linder
" Circusleute " ("Circus People"), by Franz'^von Schoenthan, was played Nov. 14; "Im Weissen Roess'l," by Blumenthal and Kadelburg, was also produced, and Dec. 26 " Bruder Martin, " by Carl Costa, was given. Dec. 26 the Tegernseer peasant players, a company from the Swiss mountains, made their first appearance in this country. They presented "Der Herr Gottschnitzer von Ammergau " (" The Crucifix Carver of Ammergau "), by S. Gang- hofer and Hans Neuert. Jan. 5, 1899, "Das Erbe" ("The Inheri- tance) " was seen, when Eugene Schady made his American debut. On Jan. 9 " Jaegerblut, " by Benno Rauchenegger, was presented. The Bavarian peasant actors were seen Jan. 20 in "Almenrauch und Edelweiss," by Hans Neuert. " Im Schwarzen Roess'l " ("At the Black Horse Tavern Inn "), a dramatization of Fred. Hilpert's novel, and "Berghexen," by Gustav Amberg, were produced Jan. 24 by the company of peasant actors. On Feb. 2 "Busch und Reichenbach," by Heinrich See and Wilhelm Meyer Forster, was given for the first time in America; "Der G'sunde Kern," by Jos. Kellerer, was acted Feb. 3. " Jugenf reunde " (" Comrades"), by Ludwig Fulda, was presented Feb. 9; "D'Z'widerwurzen," a peasant play, with singing and dancing, was given by the Tegern- seer peasants, Feb. 17. "Auf Der Sonnenseite " ("The Sunny- side"), by Blumenthal and Kadelburg, was seen Feb. 21 ; " Freiwild" (" Free Game "), by Arthur Schnitzler, was done Feb. 16, for the first time in America. "Cyrano de Bergerac," the German ver- sion of Rostand's play, by Ludwig Fulda, was presented March 13, with Eugen Schady as Cyrano.
Adolph von Sonnenthal reappeared in America April 6 in Les- sing's "Nathan der Weise," at increased prices; Larder's "Alte Junggesellen " was acted April 8; " Wallenstein's Death," April 11; "The Daughter of Fabricius," and "Fuhrmann Henschel,"
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by Gerhard Hauptmann, April 25. Marie Geistinger returned to this country April 3 and was seen as Rose in Ferdinand Ray- mond's " Verschwender j " " Die Kindsfrau, " a musical farce adapted from the French, was played April 25 with Geistinger as Kathe. The stock company appeared May 11 in "Der Veilchenfresser " ("The Flatterer"). Sonnenthal appeared in "The Iron Master" April 29. His last appearance here was May i in the same r61e, when the Hungarian societies of New York bestowed a silver laurel wreath upon him, and Heinrich Conried presented him with a silver toilet set.
The next regular season began Sept. 30, 1899, with Schiller's "Maria Stuart," cast as follows:
Elizabeth .... Slava Roberts Maria Stuart . . . Martha Schiffel
Dudley Paul Faber
Talbot Carl Bender
Cecil A. Meyer-Eigen
Kent F. Hitzigrath
Davidson Julius Strobi
Amias Paulet . . . Max Hanseler Mortimer . Rudolph Klein-Rhoden Aubespine .... Jacques Horwitz Drugeon Drury . . . Carl Frischer
Melvil George Le Bret
Hanna . . . Wilhelmine Schluter Margarethe . . . Ruscha Michaelis
Oct. 3, "Renaissance," by Schoenthan and Koppel-Ellfeld was played. On this occasion Anna Leonard! and Emma Schroth made their American ddbut. On Oct. 16 " Maedel als Rekrut " (" The Girl Recruit "), by Kurt Kraatz and Heinrich Stobitzer, was pro- duced. On Nov. 8 " Das Opferlamman " (" The Scapegoat ") was acted and was also played at the Germania Theatre in this city on the same night. It had already been done at the Bijou Theatre in this city as "The Purple Lady;" on Nov. 21, "Die Herren Sohne," by Oskar Walther and Leo Stein, was produced with this cast:
Lotte Meta Buenger
Else Frida Brandt
Roschen Himmer . . . EUy CoUmer
Jettchen Marie Corti
Jerome Jacques Lurian
Ein Schlachtergeselle . . Carl Frischer
Friedrich Rommel . . Max Hanseler Johanna . . . Wilhelmine Schluter
Wilhelm Gustav Olmar
Gusti Anna Leonardi
Gimpem C. Bender
Rudolf Rudolph Senius
Range A. Meyer-Eigen
Nov. 30 "Hofgunst" ("Court Favor"), by Thilo von Trotha, which had a run of more than three hundred nights in Berlin, was presented here. Dec. 1 1, " Das Recht Auf Sich Selbst " ("The Right of the Individual"), by Friedrich von Wrede, was given with this cast :
Dr. Philipp Paul Faber
Karl Kleiner Wilke
Anina Martha Schiffel
Hans Lutz . . . Franz Kierschner Fritz Hart . Rudolph Klein-Rhoden Professor Brause . . Fritz Hitzigrath VOL. 11. — 16
Professorin Brause
Wilhelmine Schluter Ein Hauptmann . . George Le Bret Der Pastor . . . Semmy Herzmann Ein altes Fraulein . . Lina Hanseler
242 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1900
"Haubenlerche," Dec. 14; "Ein Blitzmaedel" ("A Telegraph Girl "), by Costa and Millocker, was also given, when Herr Felix Schweighofer, the German character comedian, made his Ameri- can d^but, as Leo Bruller. This bill was repeated Jan. i, 2, 3, 1900. " Pension Schoeller " (" Schoeller's Boarding House "), by Carl Laufus, was also acted, with Schweighofer as Philipp Klapp- roth. He appeared Jan. 4, 5, and 6, as Stocker in " Die Gypsfigur " ("The Statuette"). On Jan. 11 Schweighofer varied his enter- tainment by appearing as a monologuist in a series of descriptive stories illustrating every-day life in Vienna. He was alone on the stage for forty-five minutes. He gave three sketches, in which he impersonated various widely different characters with remarkable skill. The remainder of the performance consisted of a one-act comedy " Unter Vier Augen, " in which Anna Braga was the prin- cipal figure, and " Ein Vereinsschwester " ("A Female Lodge Mem- ber"), a musical comedy in which Herr Schweighofer again displayed his skill. Jan. 15 "Mathias Gollinger" was played with Schweig- hofer in the title r61e; Jan. 18, "Gebildete Menchen" ("Educated People "), Schweighofer as Adolf. He appeared Jan. 23 in a one- act comedy "Scheu vor dem Minister" ("Timidity Before the Minister"), a short farce called "Othello's Erfolg" ("Othello's Success"), and the second act of "Blitzmaedel," for his farewell. On Jan. 22 "Eine Karnevals-Posse, " arranged by Gustav von Seyffertitz, was produced with this cast:
Carl Rogler . Gustav von Seyffertitz
Ludmila Meta Buenger
Melan Frida Brandt
Fritzi Yona Grahn
August Linde . Eugen Hohenwarth Arthur Bogen . Vladimir Schamberg
Resi Gussie Frankel
Marie Eugenie Lehmann
Frau Bernauer . . . Anna Sander Frau Artner Johanna Claussen-Koch
Clara Adele Sauer
Mucki Ida Frey
JuUer, Concipient . . Adolf Teleky
Hubler Emil Sievert
Ein Sicherheitswach-Inspektor
Heinrich Habrich
Janker Jacques Lurian
Simon Dalles . . . Herr Kronau Jakob Reis .... Julius Ascher
Sali Adele Liansky
Prokop Janitschek . . . Willy Frey Dovidl .... Ferdinand Ries Moritz Jacques Horwitz
Jan. 31, "Am Spieltisch des Leben" ("Game of Life") was given for the first time in America. Feb. 6 "Als Ich Wiederkam" (" When I Came Again "), by Von Blumenthal and Kadelburg, and sequel to "Im Weissen Ress'l" was produced. The other part of the programme was " Der Tugendhof " (" The Court of Virtue ").
Oct. 2 Goethe's "Egmont" was produced, with the American d^but of Karl Emmerich and Adolph Zimmerman ; Oct. 8 was the d6but of Marie Eisenhart as Lominie in "Wildfeuer," by Frederic Halm; Oct. 11 was the first time of "Der Probepfeil " ("The Trial Shot"), by Blumenthal; "Der Probekandidat " ("The Trial Can- didate "), by Max Dreyer, was seen Oct. 25. Nov. 5 " Von Stufe
igoO IRVING PLACE THEATRE 243
Zu Stufe " (" From Step to Step "), by Hugo Mueller, was given. "Das Vermaechtriss " ("The Legacy"), Nov. 10; "Die Gold- grube " (" The Gold Mine "), by Karl Lauf and Wilhelm Jacoby, was given for the first time in America Nov. 14; "Die Gypsfigur " was played Jan. 4, 1901 ; "Am Spieltisch des Leben" ("The Game of Life "), by Klaus Arsen, repeated its original success at this house Jan. 31 ; and " Als Ich Wiederkam " Feb 7. " Ultimo " was also presented Feb. 7, "Der Letzte Brief" ("The Last Letter "), by Victorien Sardou, was produced Feb. 14. This play is well known in America as "The Scrap of Paper;" Feb. 18, "Der Goldbauer." by Charlotte Birch-Pfeiffer, was played. Miss Hedwig Lange took a benefit Feb. 20 in "Fedora;" Feb. 26 "Die Falscher," by Barriere and Capender, translated into German by Heinrich Laube, was seen; Feb. 28 "Der Herr Im Hause," by Paul Lindau, had its first presentation.
On March i " Hans, " by Max Dreyer, was seen for the first time in America; Karl Wagner first appeared in this country as Hein- rich in "Die Versunckene Glocke," March 5; March 12, for the first time in America, " Der Goldene Kafig " (" The Golden Cage "), by Felix Phillippi, was played; March 19 Karl Wagner appeared in "Maria Stuart;" March 21 the one hundred and fiftieth anni- versary of the birthday of Goethe was celebrated with " Iphigenie auf Tauris," Karl Wagner as Orestes, and Martha Schiffel as Iphigenie; March 22 "Das Funfte Rad"("The Fifth Wheel"), a very light comedy by Hugo Lubliner, was seen ; March 28, " Cor- nelius Voss," by Franz von Schoenthan; and April 3, "The Journalists," by Gustav Freytag; Mme. Schumann Heink ap- peared April 14, in "Das Verspricken Hinter'm Herd;" April 16 Fraulein Leonardi sang the title r61e in Meilhac and Millaud's comic opera, "Mile. Nitouche." The season closed April 30 with scenes from "Maria Stuart," third act of "Die Ehre," third act of "Dr. Klaus," third act of "Kreig und Frieden," and second act of "Maedel als Rekrut."
The next season began Sept. 29, with Heinrich Conried as man- ager, and "Die Sittliche Forderung " ("A Moral Demand") as the opening play, in which Fraulein Lange and Herr Ottbert ap- peared. " Der Hochzeitstag " (" The Wedding Day "), by Herren Walters and Konigsbrunschaup, was produced March 5. " Frauen von Heute " (" Women of To-day "), by Benno Jacobson, was seen for the first time in America, March 18, for the benefit of Herr Von Seyfifertitz, who appeared as Herr Ottbert; Fraulein Merito as his wife. " Faust " was given March 26, with Karl Emmerich in the title rdle. The second part of " Faust " was acted March 29, when Ada Merito appeared as Marguerite. "Die Bernehute Frau" ("A Celebrated Woman") was given here April 8 as a sub- stitute for " The Battle of Froschweiler," which had been announced,
244 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1861
but had to be abandoned, owing to the sudden illness of Ada Merito. Helen Odilon, a Viennese "star," made her American ddbut April 15 in"Lona Ladinser;" she appeared April 18 for the first time in America as Camille. On April 22 " Die Zwillingsschwester " ("The Twin Sister"), by Ludwig Fulda, was produced, with Otto Ottbert as Orlando della Torre. May 8, for her farewell and the last night of the season, Madame Odilon appeared in a " curtain raiser," "A Modest Wooing," by Otto Erich Hartleber; Mme. Odilon as Rita Revera, brought down the house by singing " I love you, honey, yes I do," in fairly good English. Roberto Bracco's " Untreu " (" Faithless ") followed, in which the famous Vienna actress appeared in the r61e of Countess Sangiorgi.
THE CALIFORNIA MENAGERIE
ONE of P. T. Barnum's little experiments was an exhibition known as the "California Menagerie," which was given under canvas at the corner of Fourth Avenue and Thirteenth Street. It was managed by P. T. Barnum and James M. Nixon. The initial performance took place April 30, i860. In addition to a collection of wild beasts, J. C. Adams, styled " The California Trapper of '49," exhibited a collection of trained wild animals.
FIFTH AVENUE MUSIC HALL
SITUATED at the southeast corner of Twenty-third Street and Broadway was the "Fifth Avenue Music Hall." The en- trance for gentlemen was 954 Broadway; for ladies, 948. It was opened Dec. 25, i860. Its name was changed to Union MusiC Hall " Jan. 16, 1867, and it was opened with a panorama of Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress." Griffin & Christy's minstrels took possession July 29, 1867. E. Perceval, George Christy, and Otto Burbank were in the organization. They closed on Aug. 10.
EUSTACHE'S THEATRE
A HALL known as "Eustache's Theatre" was situated on Fourth Street, near First Avenue. Miscellaneous enter- tainments were given here during the season of 1860-61. On Feb. 18, 1861, E. L. Malhaban gave performances in magic, and the place was called "The Theatre Oriental." It passed out of existence in a few months.
WALLACK'S THEATRE
FOR something more than twenty years the most famous theatre in the United States was that of James W. Wallack, situ- ated on the northeast corner of Broadway and Thirteenth Street.
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245
It was erected in i86r. Thomas R. Jackson was the architect. It was in this house the name of Wallack won its proudest laurels. J. W. Wallack was its first manager, but he never played there, and to all intents and purposes J. Lester Wallack, with Theo. Moss in the business department, was from the first head and front of the theatre. In this house there appeared at intervals Charles Fisher, John Sefton, Mark Smith, John Gilbert, James William- son, J. W. Wallack, Jr., E. L. Davenport, Wm. Holston, Frederic Robinson, J. B. Polk, J. H. Stoddart, Owen Marlowe, George Clarke, Chas. Mathews, George Boniface, Sen., Harry Becket, E. M. Holland, Edward Arnot, Eben Plympton, H. J. Montague, Dion Boucicault, Steele Mackaye, Charles Coghlan, Charles Barron, Harry Edwards, Maurice H. Barrymore, Gerald Eyre, Osmond Tearle, William Elton, Harry Pitt, Fanny Morant, Mrs. John Sefton, Mary Gannon, Mrs. John Hoey, lone Burke, Mrs. Clara Jennings, Rose Eytinge, Emily Mestayer, Effie Germon, Mrs. Thomas Barry, Helen Tracy, Katharine Rogers, Rose Coghlan, Mme. Ponisi, Jeffreys Lewis, Ada Dyas, Rose Wood, Stella Boni- face, Maud Granger, Adelaide Detchon, and Mrs. Vernon and Madeline Henriques.
The company engaged consisted of Lester Wallack, W. R. Blake, W. R. Floyd, G. F. Browne, Norton, Reynolds, Chas. Parsloe, A. W. Young, Charles Fisher, Winters, Hardy, Willis, St. John, Charles, Parkes, John Sefton, Geo. Holland, Mrs. John Hoey, Mrs. Vernon, Mrs. Reeves, Mrs. John Sefton, Mrs. Sloan, Mary Gannon, Fanny Morant, Madeline Henriques, Viola Crocker, Mary Miller, and Carman. The musical director was Robert Stoepel, treasurer, Theo. Moss; scenic artist, Mr. Hillyard.
The initial programme was "The New President," by Tom Taylor, Sept. 25, 1861, with this cast:
De La Rampe . . . Lester Wallack Grand Duke Kleinstadt Charles Fisher Count Wetterhaum . . W. H. Norton Landgrave of Braunsback
Mr. Reynolds Baron Von Dampfnoodel W. R. Blake General Fraunsback . Chas. Parsloe Mile. Von Gridenheim . Mrs. Vernon Colombe . . . Madeline Henriques Mile Gironnette . . . Viola Crocker Princess Wilhelmina . Mary Miller Baronness Von Dampfnoodel
Mary Gannon
Fraulein Von Pfeffier
Belcour
Vaubelle .
Ragoutin .
Griboulard
Linda . .
Toupet
Col. Krebs
Herduk
La Jaconde
Mile. Roncoulle
Miss Carman
W. R. Floyd
Mr. Winters
Mr. St. John
Geo. Browne
. Mr. Hardy
. Mr. Willis
A. W. Young
. Mr. Charles
Mrs. John Hoey
Mrs. Reeves
Previous to the comedy, James W. Wallack addressed the audi- ence. This was the last time he ever appeared on any stage. "The King of the Mountains " was produced here Oct. 15 :
246 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Ci86i
Hadji Stavrus . . Sophocles .... Capt. Pericles . . Christophonos . . Capt. Walter Harris John Joseph Jerramis Herman Schultz . .
Chas. Fisher
A. W. Young
W. R. Floyd
Mr. Browne
Lester Wallack
W. R. Blake
■ Mr. Reynolds
Miss Porcupine . . . Mrs. Vernon Mary Ann Melton . Miss Henriques
Dimitri Chas. Parsloe
Tambouris Mr. Parkes
Vasili Mr. Hardy
Photini Mrs. Hoey
Nov. 21, "The Magic Marriage," for the first time on any stage, and the cast was :
Count Faletti . . . Mr. Reynolds Signor Malfridi .... Mr. Fisher
Foscolo Mr. Floyd
The Chevalier Monte Celleni
Lester Wallack
Marchioness de Volterra . Mrs. Hoey
Barettri Mr. Parkes
Belmonte Mr. Parsloe
Zillah Fanny Morant
' The Scapegoat " was given the same evening, cast thus :
Old Eustace (first appearance here)
Geo. Holland Master Frederick . . Master Reeves Molly Maggs . . Mrs. John Sefton
Charles Eustace ... W. R. Floyd Ignatius Polyglot . . W. R. Blake
Robin Mr. Young
Harriet Viola Crocker
Tom Taylor's drama, "Up at the Hills," was presented Dec. 19, with this cast :
Major Stonehurst . Mrs. Colonel McCann Mrs. Eversleigh . . Captain Black . . Lieut. Greenway. . Tunstall .... Dr. Macrivet . . .
Chas. Fisher . Mrs. Hoey Fanny Morant . Mr. Norton . Mr. Floyd Mr. Reynolds . John Sefton
NabishuU Kharmmah Dheva Singh Kate Neil . Margaret . Monee . . Mahlee
Geo. Browne . Mr. Parkes C. Parsloe Viola Crocker . Mary Miller Madeline Henriques . . Miss Carman
"You Can't Marry Your Grandfather" was seen for the first time in addition to " Up at the Hills." It had this cast :
Sir Rose Bloomly . . W. R. Blake Algernon Bloomly . . Wm. Reynolds Emma Melville (first appear- ance here) . . . Mrs. John Sloan
Tom Small Ready . . Susan Trim Mrs. Pickle
Geo. Holland . Mr. Young Miss Gannon Miss Carman
Standard comedies were produced from Dec. 30 to June 9, 1862, and included "She Stoops to Conquer," given Dec. 30:
Young Marlowe . . Lester Wallack
Richard Johnston
Hardcastle Blake
Aminadab C. Parsloe, Jr.
Mrs. Hardcastle . . Mrs. Vernon Miss Hardcastle .... Mrs. Hoey
Miss Neville Mrs. Sloan
Tony Lumpkin . . George Holland Diggory A. W. Young
Sir Charles .... Geo. Browne
Roger Converse
Mat Muggins Burke
Hastings Wm. Reynolds
Jeremy John Sefton
Stingo Parkes
Ralph Smith
Tim Twist Smith
Dolly Mrs. Reeves
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247
John Brougham's "Playing with Fire" was seen Dec. 31, with this cast:
Dr. Savage . . Herbert . . . Mrs. Dr. Savage Widow Crabstick Perkins . . .
Lester Wallack
W. H. Norton
Mary Gannon
Mrs. Vernon
Viola Crocker
Uncle Timotliy Pinchbeck Mrs. Waverly Richard . . Mary Ann
. . . Blake
W. R. Floyd
. Mrs. Hoey
C. Parsloe Jr.
Miss Carman
Jan. I, 1862, "The School for Scandal" was presented, with Lester Wallack as Charles, Blake as Sir Peter, Norton as Oliver, Chas. Fisher as Joseph, Geo. Holland as Moses, Mrs. Hoey as Lady Teazle, Madeline Henriques as Maria, Mrs. Sloan as Lady Sneerwell, and Mrs. Vernon as Mrs. Candour. On Jan. 2 " She Stoops to Conquer" was repeated; Jan. 6 "London Assurance" was played, with this cast:
Charles Lester Wallack Dazzle Reynolds
Sir Harcourt .... Chas. Fisher Max Norton
Cool Young Dolly Spanker .... W. Floyd
Pert Mrs. John Sefton Lady Gay Mrs. Hoey
Meddle Blake Grace Mary Gannon
On Jan. 7 "Love for Love" was seen; Jan. 8, "The Road to Ruin;" Jan. 21, "A Cure for the Heartache;" Jan. 22, "A Bold Stroke for a Husband;" Jan. 23, "The Honeymoon;" Jan. 24, "A Cure for the Heartache; " and Feb. 5, "The Poor Gentleman," with this cast :
Sir Robert Blake
Dr. OUapod Young
Sir Charles Floyd
Valet Parkes
Emily Mrs. Hoey
Humphrey Dobbins . . . G. Holland Lieut. Worthington . . . C. Fisher Lucretia MacTab . . Mrs. Vernon Frederick .... Lester Wallack Corporal Foss Moore
" Town and Country " was given Feb. 5 with the following cast :
Cosey Blake
Capt. Glenroy C. Fisher
Trot Geo. Holland
Taffline Viola Crocker
Rosalie Somers Madeline Henriques
Reuben Lester Wallack
Plastic Wm. Floyd
Mrs. Glenroy Mrs. Hoey
Mrs. Trot . . . Mrs. John Sefton
Mrs. Moreen
Mrs. Vernon
"Speed the Plough" was played Feb. 6; Feb. 12, "The Irish Heiress;" Feb. 13, "The Wonder;" Feb. 24, "Wild Oats;" Feb. 26, "The Belle's Stratagem; " and March 17 "The Love Chase" was presented with this cast:
Sir William (first appearance
here) Mark Smith
Wildrake .... Lester Wallack
Constance Mrs. Hoey
Widow Green .... Mary Gannon Lydia .... Madeline Henriques
Alice Mrs. Reeves
Phoebe Miss Green
Amelia Miss Carman
Master Waller C.Fisher
Trueworth Reynolds
Humphries Geo. Browne
Neville Parkes
Lash Parsloe
George Turner
248 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisea
"The Way to Get Married" was done March 20; March 29, "The Jealous Wife;" March 31, the first time here, "Old Heads and Young Hearts," with this cast :
Jesse Rural W. R. Blake
Earl of Pompion Moore
Charles Roebuck Floyd
Col. Rocket Norton
Lady Alice Mrs. Hoey
Miss Rocket . . . Mary Gannon
Littleton Coke C. Fisher
Tom Coke Mark Smith
Bob Young
Stripe Parkes
Russel Turner
Countess Mrs. Vernon
April 2, "The Rivals;" April 7, " Secrets Worth Knowing;" and April 14, "Love and Money," cast thus:
Lord Fipley .... Lester Wallack The MacDunnun of Dunnun
C. Fisher
Helen Mrs. Hoey
Rose Mary Gannon
Mrs. Fox Mrs. Vernon
Matilda Viola Crocker
Sally Mrs. John Sefton
Claude Mark Smith
Sykes Norton
Craven Acton Reynolds
Withers Young
William Turner
Mrs. Warren . . . Miss Carman
" The Lady of Lyons " was presented April 21, with Wallack as Claude, Mark Smith as Col. Damas, Fisher as Glavis, and Mrs. Hoey as Pauline ; " Everyone Has His Fault " was seen April 28 ; May 5, " Love in a Maze," for the benefit of Lester Wallack ; and May 19, " The Romance of a Poor Young Man " was acted for the first time and with this cast:
Manuel Lester Wallack
Dr. Desmarets .... Mark Smith
Marguerite Mrs. Hoey
Mad. Aubrey . . . Mary Gannon Mad. Laroque .... Mrs. Vernon
Alain Young
Louise Van Berger Mrs. John Sefton
Mile. Helouin . . . Fanny Morant
M. Nouret '. Browne
Bevannes Reynolds
Caspar Chas. Fisher
Yvionett C. Parsloe
Christine Fanny Reeves
May 24, "John Bull" was seen, with Blake as Job Thornberry; May 26, " Everybody's Friend ; " June 2, " The Love Chase " was given, with Smith as Sir William Fondlove. Fanny Morant took her benefit June 4, and the season closed June 9, with a benefit to Theo. Moss, when "The Little Treasure" and "Rural Felicity" were acted.
A summer season opened June 10, with Mr. and Mrs. Wm. J. Florence as the "stars." " Orange Blossoms " was played July 2, and cast thus :
Septimus Symmetry Isabel Clarence
W. J. Florence Emma Skerrett Clarence Wm. Davidge
Violet Hope . Louisa Dudley Falcon Hope
Mrs. D. Myron Viola Crocker . J. L. Barrett
"Dombey and Son" was acted July 7, with Florence as Capt. Cuttle and Mrs. Florence as Susan Nipper. The Florences had a benefit
18633
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July 21, when Mr. and Mrs. Barney Williams and Geo. F. Browne appeared. " Eily O'Connor," a burlesque on the " Colleen Bawn," was given Aug. 6, for the first time in America.
Myles-na-Coppaleen . W. J. Florence Danny Mann . William Davidge, Sr. Sergeant O'Tooralooral G. F. Browne Eily O'Connor . Mrs. W. J. Florence Kyrle Daly J. L. Barrett
Hardress Viola Crocker
Corrigan J. Martin
Ann Chute .... Emma Skerrett Mrs. Cregan . . . Mrs. Dan Myron
The summer season closed Sept. 6. Mrs. John Sloan retired from the stage about this time.
The second regular season opened Sept. 18, with the following company: Mrs. Hoey, Mrs. Vernon, Fanny Morant, Mrs. Reeves, Miss Green, Miss Schlemm, Mary Gannon, Madeline Henriques, Mrs. John Sefton, Miss Carman, Miss La Forrest, Miss Gimber, Lester Wallack, Charles Fisher, Mark Smith, Young, W. Norton, Reynolds, Geo. Browne, Parkes, John Gilbert, Geo. Holland, Wm. Floyd, John Sefton, Moore, C. Parsloe, Jr., and Turner. The opening play was " The Love Chase." Sept. 19, " London Assurance " was given ; Sept. 20, " The Wonder ;" and Sept. 22, for the d6but of John Gilbert, "The School for Scandal," in which he played Sir Peter Teazle ; Sept. 23, " Money " was produced. The old comedies were continued until Oct. 20, when " Bosom Friends," an adapta- tion of Sardou's " Nos Intimes," was acted with this cast :
Mr. Union . . Mr. Yielding . . Frederick Fervid Mr. Borrowwell . Capt. Donoghue Theodore . . . Mrs. Meanley .
. Lester Wallack . . John Gilbert William Reynolds . . John Sefton . W. H. Norton . Miss F. Reeves . . Mrs. Vernon
Gimp . . Dr. Bland . Mr. Meanley Doyley . . Mrs Union Amy . .
. . Mrs. Reeves
. Charles Fisher
A. W. Young
. . Mr. Turner
Mrs. John Hoey
Madeline Henriques
"The Jealous Wife" was played Nov. i; "Speed the Plough," Nov. 4, when Mary Barrett, daughter of G. H. Barrett, made her debut as Miss Blandford. Lester Wallack's comedy, " Central Park," was played here Nov. 12, with this cast:
Wyndham Otis Wallack
Mrs. Kerr Flamberry . Mary Gannon Flora .... Madeline Henriques Bridget .... Mrs. John Sefton
Dobson Hudson
Kerr Flamberry .... John Gilbert Myrtle Norton
Robert Young
Skeesicks C. Parsloe, Jr.
Mittens Mrs. Reeves
Graffles George Browne
Harry Reynolds
Bayley Parkes
William Turner
Jan. 5, 1863, "Pauline" was presented; Jan. 17 "The Pro- voked Husband, or A Journey to London," was given, with this cast:
250 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D863
Lord Townley . . . Chas. Fisher Sir Francis Wronghead, John Gilbert Lady Wronghead . . Fanny Morant
John Moody Mr. Manly. . Squire Richard Count Basset . Poundage . . Constable . .
Geo. Holland Mr. Reynolds . Mr. Young . Wm. Floyd Chas. Parsloe George Browne
James W. H. Pope
Williams Mr. Turner
Lady Townley . . Mrs. John Hoey Miss Jenny .... Mary Gannon Lady Grace . . . Miss Henriques
Trusty Mrs. John Sefton
Myrtilla Miss Barrett
Mrs. Motherly . . . Miss Carman
" The School for Scandal " was revived Jan. 27 with this cast :
Charles Surface . . . Lester Wallack Lady Sneerwell . . Mrs. John Sefton
Sir Peter John Gilbert
Sir Oliver Mark Smith
Sir Benjamin Reynolds
Joseph Charles Fisher
Lady Teazle Mrs. Hoey
Maria .... Madeline Henriques Mrs. Candour . . . Fanny Morant
Crabtree John Sefton
Moses Geo. Holland
Trip Young
Careless Floyd
Rowley Browne
Snake Parker
Richard C. Parsloe
William Turner
Feb. 10 a translation from the French by E. G. P. Wilkins called "Henrietta" was produced. For Mrs. Hoey's benefit, Feb. 17, " Magic Marriage," " Captain of the Watch," and " Masl^ and Faces" formed the bill. Feb. 21, "Ernestine" was played; Feb. 24, "Americans in Paris; " Feb. 27, " The Fine Old English Gentle- man;" March 2, " Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady" and " The Youthful Queen " were presented. March 9 " A Wonderful Woman " and "Blue and Cherry" were acted; March 13, "Spring and Autumn " and " Sketches in India." On April 7 " My Noble Son- in-Law," an adaptation from the French, was given for the first time, and with this cast :
Lord de Vere . . . Lester Wallack Hector, Duke de Myran, Charles Fisher Mr. Thomas Tompkins John Gilbert Mr. Tony Wilkins . . . Mark Smith
Lady Isabella de Vere . . Mrs. Hoey
Vatel A. W. Young
Solomons G. F. Browne
"Follies of a Night" was presented April 18 for the benefit of Theo. Moss, also "Sweethearts and Wives." "Lost and Won" was first seen here May 4, and had this cast:
Marquis de la Tour . Marshal Gaucher . Marquis Cinq Mars
Chas. Fisher . Mark Smith W. R. Floyd
Hdloise de la Tour . Mrs. John Hoey Duchess de Villers . . Fanny Morant Jdreme W. H. Pope
" The Stranger " was played May 9 for Lester Wallack 's benefit. The Wife " was first seen here May 26, and cast thus :
1863]
WALLACK'S THEATRE
251
Julian St. Pierre . Leonardo Gonzaga Ferardo Gonzaga Antonio Lorenzo Bartolo . . Count Flurio Hugo . .
Advocate Mr. Browne
Courier Mr. Turner
Cosino Mr. Charles
First Officer Mr. Halford
Second Officer .... Mr. Harris
Carlo Mr. Williams
Marianna Mrs. Hoey
Floribel Miss Barrett
June II" Knights of the Round Table " was presented, with this cast:
Lester Wallack . Charles Fisher . W. H. Norton . John Gilbert William Reynolds George Holland . . Mr. Parkes . . . Mr. Pope
TomTittler Wallack
Capt. Cozens C. Fisher
Leonard Floyd
Count Livenwertz .... Browne
Peggy Mary Gannon
Perdita Miss Henriques
Smith Mark Smith
Sir Ralph W. Norton
Gen. Grantley .... John Moore
Baron C. Parsloe
Chevalier Parker
Vernon Turner
Landlord Pope
The season closed June 22.
On Aug. 6 a summer season opened under the management of Theo. Moss with the ghost illusion brought to this country several years before by Harry Watkins, who introduced it in " The Bride of an Evening" at Barnum's Museum. At Wallack's the title of the play was changed to " True to the Last," and was thus cast :
Honora Paul . . Godfrey Dulaine Mme. Auderly . Agnes Darke . . Dr. Henry Haws Col. Shahanon . Mr. Willoughby . Wardom . . .
Mrs. Harry Watkins . Harry Watkins Mrs. John Sefton Mrs. W. R. Floyd . . H. F. Daly . W. H. Norton . W. R. Floyd . Geo. Holland
Gov. Sterne J. F. Hagan
Hugh Farquier . . . . T. J. Hind Ernest Stern . . . Jas. Williamson Kurrubabel .... Chas. Parsloe Mr. Harrison .... Geo. Browne
Tom Turner C. Pope
Lily Auderly M. Green
The regular season of 1863-64 commenced Sept. 30 with the fol- lowing company: Lester Wallack, John Gilbert, Charles Fisher, Mark Smith, Geo. Holland, Young, Wm. R. Floyd, John Sefton, H. F. Daly, W. H. Norton, John Moore, Geo. Browne, J. C. Williamson, Parkes, W. H. Pope, Palmo, Mrs. John Hoey, Mary Gannon, Mrs. Vernon, Madeline Henriques, Fanny Morant, Mrs. John Sefton, lone Burke, Clara Jennings, Misses M. Barrett, Green, Carman, and Gimber. " Rosedale, or the Rifle Ball," was the opening bill, and had its first performance on any stage. This was the cast :
Elliot Grey .... Lester Wallack Sir Arthur May Matthew Leigh . . . Chas. Fisher Sarah Sykes . Col. Cavendish . . . . H. F. Daly Dicksy . . .
Romany Rob John Sefton Robert . . .
Lady Adela .... Fanny Morant Lady May . . Farmer Green . . . Geo. Browne Rosa Leigh . Corporal Daw ... W. H. Pope Tabitha Stork Miles McKenna . . . John Gilbert Primroe . . Bunberry Kobb . . . Geo. Holland Mother Mix .
Emma Le Brun
Mrs. John Sefton
. . Parkes
. . . Palmo
. Mrs. Hoey
Mary Gannon
Mrs. Vernon
Mary Barrett
Miss Carman
252 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1864
It had one hundred and twenty-five performances during the season.
The author of " Rosedale " was not Lester Wallack, as the play- bills always said. At a dinner given in this city in 1890 it was stated by Charles Gayler that Fitz James O'Brien (who was killed in the war of the rebellion) was paid $100 by Lester Wallack to write it. For a quarter of a century Lester Wallack was credited with the authorship of that drama. As a matter of fact, neither of these gentlemen wrote it. It is a close dramatization of the novel, " Lady Lee's Widowhood," which appeared in Blackwood's Maga- zine. Even the names of the characters are retained.
"The Clandestine Marriage" was played Nov. 17; Dec. i "A Bachelor of Arts " was seen ; Dec. 23 " The Invisible Husband " had its first presentation here, with this cast :
Gil Perez Geo. Holland
Don Japhet Mark Smith
Giralda Mary Gannon
Don Phillip Wallack
Isabella Fanny Morant
Don Manuel .... Chas. Fisher Captain of the Guard . . . Parkes
Mrs. Marie Wilkins made her American d6but Dec. 17, 1863, as the Widow Green in " The Love Chase." " Married Life " was produced Dec. 19, with the first appearance on any stage of Clara Jennings as Mrs. Lynx. lone Burke appeared Jan. 6, 1864. " Rosedale " was given tri-weekly, the other nights being set apart for old comedies. On Feb. 2 the gross receipts of the house were given to the Sanitary Commission. " Pure Gold " was acted for the first time in America on Feb. 9. " Rosedale " received its one- hundredth representation March 11. J. C. Williamson (now a man- ager in Australia) joined the company in February, and was here continuously until 1871, when he went to San Francisco and married there charming Maggie Moore, with whom, as an artistic as well as a domestic partner, he quickly found wide fame and substantial fortune.
Jane Coombs made her debut here as leading lady (Mrs. John Hoey having retired) April 27, as Lady Teazle in " The School for Scandal;" April 29 she played Lady Gay Spanker in " London Assurance," and, April 30, Mrs. Haller in " The Stranger." The features of her acting were ease, grace, and refinement; a clear, distinct, and judicious enunciation, and an accurate appreciation of character. The season closed June 3, but the house was opened for a summer term July 5 with Fillmore's play, " The Winning Suit," produced for the first time in America, and thus cast :
Don Pedro Chas. Fisher
Josef Geo. Holland
Don Alphonso ... W. H. Norton
Sebastian H. F. Daly
Hostess .... Mrs. John Sefton
Count Roderic . A. H. Davenport Villa Nober . . . J, C. Williamson
Orelia Avonia Jones
Francesco lone Burke
1864]
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This was the first appearance in this theatre of Avonia Jones and A. H. Davenport.
The next season commenced Sept. 19, with the following com- pany : Lester Wallack, Mark Smith, John Gilbert, John Sefton, G. F. Browne, George Holland, Wm. R. Floyd, J. E. Whiting, J. C. Will- iamson, A. W. Young, W. Parkes, Charles Fisher, J. S. Wright, Nicol Mclntyre, James McGee, Wayne, Mrs. John Sefton, Mrs. Clara Jennings, Mrs. W. R. Floyd, Mrs. Maurice, Mary Gannon, Madeline Henriques, Fanny Morant, lone Burke, Mary Barrett, Carman, A. Maurice, and Green. Boucicault's comedy, " The Fox Chase " was the first production, and had this cast :
Tom Waddy Mr. Mordaunt Mr. Twining Mr. St. Leger Link . . . Dr. Peawit . Dr. Cavil . Laura St. Leger
Lester Wallack . Chas. Fisher
John Gilbert . Mark Smith . A. W. Young
John Sefton . C. W. Parkes . Mary Gannon
Mrs. Reckless . Madeline Henriques Athenia Verdita . . Fanny Morant
Call Boy G. Browne
Face J. C. Williamson
Dryden W. H. Pope
Brown James McGee
Miss Peawit .... Mrs. Maurice
This comedy had been originally produced at Burton's Chambers Street Theatre, but was rewritten for this house. " Look Before You Leap," was given Sept. 28, with this cast :
Mr. Oddington . Jack Spriggs . . Tom Tilley . . Charles Rashlugh Henry Brandon . Fanny Hardman .
, John Gilbert , Charles Fisher A. W. Young . W. R. Floyd . J. E. Whiting . Mary Gannon
Clara Oddington, Elenor Mortimer Richard . . . Miss Brown . . Mary Oddington , Mrs. Noggs .
Madeline Henriques . . Mrs. Jennings . . W. H. Pope . . Mrs. Vernon . . . Mrs. Floyd . . Miss Carman
This was the first appearance of J. E. Whiting, Mclntyre, and Wright. " She Stoops to Conquer " was next done, with Geo. Hol- land as Tony Lumpkin and Mary Gannon as Miss Hardcastle. Oct. 3 " Money " was seen ; Oct. 5 " Follies of a Night " and " My Wife's Maid " made up the bill. The farce had this cast :
Captain Crackthorpe Mr. Pottles, Sr. . . Lysimachus Pottles .
Mark Smith Geo. Holland A. W. Young
Master Sprouts . Barbara Perkins . Lucinda Whiffleton
" Look Before You Leap " was repeated Oct. 6 ; Stoops to Conquer;" Oct. 12, " Money;" Oct. 13, " for the first time, and cast thus :
J. C. Williamson . . lone Burke . Mary Barrett
Oct. II, "She The Compact,"
Juan Ravages . . . Don Manuel Velasco, Josef de Galvan Gil Zote . Marco . . Lope Mendez Don Carlos . Roque . .
Lester Wallack
Charles Fisher
John Gilbert
George Holland
A. W. Young
. W. R. Floyd
. J. E. Whiting
John Moore
Pepe .... Marquis de Luna Pequillo . . . Donna Isabella Margarita . . Captain Perez . Jacinta . . .
. . John Sefton . . Geo. Browne . J. C. Williamson
Fanny Morant Mrs. W. R. Floyd . . W. H. Pope
Mary Gannon
254 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D865
Oct. 24, 29, and Nov. 3 "The Busybody" was played; Oct. 25 and 28, "The Compact;" Oct. 26, "Follies of a Night" and " My Wife's Maid ;" Oct. 27, " Look Before You Leap ;" Oct. 31, "Rosedale ; " Nov. i, " Wonder, a Woman Keeps a Secret ; " Nov. 5, "Americans in Paris " and " My Wife's Maid ; " Nov. 16, " The School of Reform," with Gilbert as Gen. Tarragon, Chas. Fisher as Fer- ment, Mark Smith as Robert Tyke, Mary Gannon as Mrs. Ferment, Mrs. Vernon as Mrs. Nicely, Mrs. Jennings as Julia, and lone Burke as Shelah. Nov. 28 " To Marry or Not to Marry " was given ; Dec. 7, " Masks and Faces," with Chas. Fisher as Triplet, Madeline Henriques as Peg Woffington, and Mrs Jennings as Mabel Vane. " Rural Felicity " and " To Marry or Not to Marry " were seen Dec. 13. Boucicault's " How She Loves Him " was acted here for the first time Dec. 12, and with this cast :
Vacil .... Dick Heartly . . Capt. Yawley . . Diogenes . . . Dr. Minimum Dr. Zkwertz . . Sir Ricliard English
Lester Wallaclc
. Chas. Fisher
. W. R. Floyd
W. H. Norton
John Sefton
John Moore
. John Gilbert
Sir Jericho Maximum . Geo. Browne Atalanta Cruiser . . . Mary Gannon Mrs. Vacil . . . Madeline Henriques Lady Selina RafiBeticket, Fanny Morant Dr. Sparks . . . . J. C. Williamson Handicap W. H. Pope
" Married Life " was played Dec. 24. James W. Wallack died in this city Dec. 25, 1864.
The theatre was closed until Dec. 28, when it was reopened with Lester Wallack as manager, John Gilbert as stage manager, J. S. Wright, prompter. " The Wife's Secret " was acted, with John Gilbert as Jabez Sneed, Charles Fisher as Sir Walter Amyot, Fanny Morant as Launcelot, Madeline Henriques as Lady Amyot, and lone Burke as Maud. " The Clandestine Marriage " was seen Dec. 30, with Gilbert as Lord Ogleby.
Lester Wallack made his first public appearance since the death of his father, Jan. 3, 1865, acting Alfred Evelyn in " Money," with Madeline Henriques as Clara Douglas.
Edmund Falconer's " Men of the Day " was produced here Jan. 23, with this cast :
Frank Hawthorn . Sir Lionel Norman Robin Wildbriar . Jenny Wildbriar . Lucy Vavasour Mrs. Wildbriar .
Charles Fisher
W. H. Norton
. A. W. Young
Mary Gannon
Madeline Henriques
Mrs. John Sefton
Dr. Playfair .... Mark Smith
James Geo. Holland
Everard Digby . . . J. E. Whiting Augustus .... Nichol Mclntyre Euphemia Mary Barrett
It had been played at Wallack's Broadway and Broome Street Theatre, May 6, 1859. Charles Walcot took a farewell prior to his European tour, Feb. i, and played Major Wellington De Boots in "Everybody's Friend." "The Game of Life" was seen Feb. 17; " Still Waters Run Deep " was given Feb. 2 1 for the benefit of
1865:
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255
Chas. Fisher, when he acted John Mildmay, and Mr. Graham appeared here for the first time as Langford. Miss Henriques acted Julia in " The Hunchback," Feb. 24, for her benefit. John Gilbert was the Master Walter, and Charles Fisher Sir Thomas Clifford. " The Ticket of Leave Man " was presented here Feb. 27 with this cast :
Bob Brierly Hawkshaw . Green Jones Melter Moss James Dalton Mr. Gibson Sam Willoughby
Charles Fisher
A. W. Young
, W. R. Floyd
Geo. Holland
W. H. Norton
, . . Wright
Mrs. W. R. Floyd
Emily St. Evremond . Mary Gannon
May Edwards . Madeline Henriques Mrs. Willoughby . Mrs. John Sefton
Maltby Browne
Burton Graham
Sharpe W. H. Pope
Joe Mr. Ward
Henry Mr. Quigley
Spriggins Mr. Caslin
" The Man of Many Friends " was first seen here March 7 for the benefit of Fanny Morant. " An Unequal Match " was played March 14 for Mrs. John Sefton's benefit, and had this cast:
Hester . . . Madeline Henriques
Arncliff W. R. Floyd
Bessy .... Mrs. John Sefton
Mrs. Monfressor . . Fanny Morant Herr Dummkoff . . J. C. Williamson Grazbrook Mark Smith
The assassination of President Abraham Lincoln occurred April 14. At a meeting of the managers of the New York theatres, the following day, it was decided to close all places of amusement until Wednesday, April 26. This house reopened with " Bosom Friends." William Holston made his first appearance here May 3 in " The Black Sheep," which had this cast :
Lady Barbican . . Fanny Morant Tom Shorter . . . . A. W. Young Smithers . . . . J. C. Williamson
Bunny Holston
Herbert Whiting
Ethel Madeline Henriques
Mrs. Todhunter . Mrs. John Sefton
" A Prisoner of War " was acted April 28. Lester Wallack made his first appearance in four months March 9, and acted Don Felix in "The Wonder;" March 10 " How She Loves Him" was seen; March 11, "She Stoops to Conquer;" March 15, "To Marry or Not to Marry," Lester Wallack as Sir Oswin; March 23, "Central Park." " To Marry or Not to Marry " was repeated March 24 ; March 26, "Love and Money;" March 29, "How She Loves Him;" March 31, "Heir at Law; " June i, "The Game of Life;" June 2, " Leap Year ; " June 6, " Everyone Has His Fault ; " June 7, " Still Waters Run Deep ; " June 8, " The Poor Gentleman ; " June 9, " The Irish Heiress." The season closed June 10 with " All that Glitters is Not Gold," and the farce, " High Life Below Stairs."
A summer season was opened June 12 by the Wallack-Davenport combination, consisting of J. W. Wallack, Jr. ; E. L. Davenport, and Rose Eytinge. The company was : Joseph Whiting, W. C. Forbes,
256 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1865
Chas. Warwick, Geo. Holland, Stanton, Geo. Browne, James William- son, Graham, Maxwell, Pope, Ward, Quigley, Benschoten, Mrs. John Sefton, Mrs. W. R. Floyd, Mrs. Maurice, and Miss Green. They opened in "The Iron Mask," played for two weeks, followed June 26 by " Oliver Twist," with Wallack as Fagan, Davenport as Bill Sikes, lone Burke as Oliver, and Rose Eytinge as Nancy Sikes. This combination appeared July 15, and Dan Bryant commenced July 17 in " Handy Andy " and " The Irish Emigrant." Charles Fisher and Clara Jennings now reappeared. "The Colleen Bawn" was produced July 29, when Mrs. M. A. Farren and John Nunan were added to the company. " Shamus O'Brien" was announced to be acted, but the success of the " Colleen Bawn " prevented it from being produced. The season closed Aug. 26.
The fifth regular season opened Sept. 21, 1865. John Gilbert continued as stage director. The initial performance was Tom Taylor's drama, " The Serf," which had this cast :
Ivan E. L. Davenport
Khor John Gilbert
Steinhardt .... George Holland Count Fedor KaralofE, W. H. Norton Prince Vladimir Khovalenski
J. C. Williamson
Mistigris .... Countess De Mauleon, Princess Bariatinski .
Jatchka
Osif
Charles Fisher Miss Henriques . Mary Barrett
G. F. Browne . W. H. Pope
Acoulini lone Burke
This drama was not first played in America on this occasion, as announced on the bills, but was acted some days before at Philadel- phia by Edwin Adams. The company consisted of Lester Wallack, John Gilbert, Mark Smith, Young, B. T. Ringgold, W. Norton, Geo. Browne, W. H. Pope, Ward, Mary Gannon, Mrs. Vernon, lone Burke, Mrs. John Sefton, Miss Green, Kate Bartlett, Miss St. Clare, Miss Day, E. L. Davenport, Chas. Fisher, W. Holston, Geo. Holland, John Sefton, J. S. Wright, J. C.Williamson, Graham, Eugene, Made- line Henriques, Fanny Morant, Clara Jennings, Mary Barrett, Miss Carman, Mrs. Timony, Miss Vale, Miss Edwards. Stage director, John Gilbert ; prompter, J. S. Wright ; musical director, Edward Mollenhauer. " The Double Gallant," by Colley Cibber was acted for the first time in America Sept. 2 9:
Atall .... Careless . . . Clerimont . . Saunter . . . Capt. Strutt . . Sir Harry Atall Finder . . . Supple . . . Dr. Bolus . . Sir Solomon Sadlife Old Mr. Wilford .
E. L. Davenport Charles Fisher B. T. Ringgold . John Sefton W. H. Norton G. F. Browne
J. C. Williamson . W. H. Pope . Mr. Graham . John Gilbert George Holland
Sir Squabble Splithour . Mr. Wright Maid to Clarinda . . . Kate Bartlett
Apothecary Mr. Ward
Clarinda .... Miss Henriques Lady Dainty .... Miss Morant
Sylvia Miss Burke
Wishwell . . . Mrs. John Sefton Lady Sadlife . . . Clara Jennings
Situp Miss Green
Messenger Miss St. Clare
1865:
WALLACK'S THEATRE
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" Miriam's Crime " was presented Oct. 9, with this cast ;
Scumley .... Charles Fisher
Biles W. Holston
Berrard B. T. Ringgold
Huffin W. H. Norton
Daniel J. C. Williamson
Miriam Miss Henriques
Mrs. Raby . . . Mrs. John Sefton
" King and Comedian " was given the same night, and thus cast :
Stolbach Mark Smith
Brochette A. W. Young
Aide-de-camp .... W. H. Pope Frederick the Great . . John Gilbert Baron Kirserwasser . W. H. Norton
Capt. Niddermaunersteinchuean-
choningen . . . B. T. Ringgold Countess Plotzen . . Mrs. Jennings
Kreutzner Mr. Ward
Camilla lone Burke
"Still Waters Run Deep" was seen Oct. 16, with E. L. Daven- port as Capt. Hawksley, Charles Fisher as John Mildmay, Mark Smith as Potter, Williamson as Gimlet, Miss Henriques as Mrs. Mildmay, and Fanny Morant as Mrs. Sternhold. On the same evening Mr. Holston appeared as Spriggins in " Ici on Parle Frangais." Craven's comedy of " The Needful " had its first Amer- ican representation Oct. 26, with this cast :
Abraham Store . . . Mark Smith Mr. Meek .... George Holland
Job Lax A. W. Young
Jacob Scriplie . . . John Sefton
Ester Miss F. Green
Amelia McHaughty . Clara Jennings Mrs. Tabitha Store Mrs. John Sefton
Ernest Otway . . . J. C. Williamson Capt. Feargus Daly E. L. Davenport Ensign McHaughty . B. T. Ringgold Yellowchase . . . . W. H. Norton Kate Harley .... Mary Gannon Mrs. Meek .... Mrs. Vernon Anna Meek lone Burke
"The Needful" was acted until Nov. 11, when Mr. Davenport appeared as Sir Giles Overreach in "A New Way to Pay Old Debts." His engagement closed Nov. 22, and Nov. 23 J. W. Wallack, Jr., appeared for the first time this season, as Job Armroyd in " Lost in London," which had this cast :
Mary Barrett Fanny Green G. F. Browne
Mr. Graham . Mr. Ward
W. H. Pope
Job Armroyd . James W. Wallack, Jr. Florence . . .
Gilbert Featherstone, Charles Fisher Signori Simondi .
Sir Frederick Loader, Charles Roberts Topps ....
Benjamin Blinker . . A. W. Young Dick Raine . .
Jack Longbones . . J. C. Williamson Noah Moorhead .
Nelly Armroyd . . Miss Henriques Thomas . . . Tilly Dragglethorpe . . Miss Morant
Frederic Robinson made his American ddbut Dec. 12 as Sir Bernard Harleigh in "Dreams of Delusions," and Francis Fron- tignac in " A Wonderful Woman." The cast of " Dreams of De- lusion " wa^ :
Sir Bernard Harleigh . F. Robinson Lady Viola . . Madeline Henriques Lord Arthur ... B. T. Ringgold
Maunder W. Norton
'vol. II. — 17
Bobby J. C, Williamson
Dr. Pungent .... John Gilbert Amabel lone Burke
258 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cises
" Secrets Worth Knowing " was given Dec. 26, with Frederic Robinson as Rostrum. Jan. 4, 1866, "A Poor Gentleman" was seen ; " Henry Dunbar," a dramatization of Miss Braddon's novel by Tom Taylor, was first acted in this country Jan. 10, and had this cast:
Henry Dunbar The Major Henry Carter . Jerrams . . . Arthur Lovell Balderly . .
J. W. Wallack Chas. Fisher . A. W. Young . Geo. Holland . W. H. Norton . G. F. Browne
Clement Austin . . B. T. Ringgold Margaret Wentworth, Miss Henriques Hartogg . . . . J. C. Williamson Mary Tighty .... Mary Gannon Laura Dunbar .... lone Burke
Jas. M. Wehli, the pianist, Mme. Fleury Urban, R. HofFman, and S. C. Campbell gave matinee concerts here Jan. 17, 20, and 24. " The Rivals " was presented Jan. 24. Jas. Wehli and Mme. Agosta gave a matinde concert Jan. 31. Feb. 6 "The King of the Commons " was acted for the first time in this house, and with this cast :
King James . . . . J. W. Wallack
Mungo Small . . . A. W. Young
Malcolm .... B. T. Ringgold
George Weir . . . Charles Fisher
Madeline . • . Madeline Henriques
Lord Seton W. Norton
Sir Adam John Gilbert
Said Small .... Mark Smith
"The Iron Mask" was done Feb. 13 for the benefit of J. W. Wallack. Robertson's comedy, " Society," was acted Feb. 22 for the first time in America, and had this cast :
Tom Styles . John Chodd, Jr. O'SuUivan Moses Aaron . Mac Usquebagh Sidney Daryl . Lord Ptarmigant John Chodd, Sr.
. . Charles Fisher
. . . W. Holston
. . W. H. Norton
. . G. F. Browne
. . W. H. Pope Frederic Robinson
. . Mark Smith
. . Geo. Holland
The Swiffel Lamb . Maud Hetherington, Lady Ptarmigant Little Maud . . . Mrs. Churton . . . Dr. Makores . . . Scargill
J. C. Williamson Miss Henriques Mrs. Vernon Emma Le Brun . Mrs. Timony . . Mr. Ward . James McGee
Several members of the company took benefits as follows : John Gilbert's was Feb. 26, when " The Clandestine Marriage " was given with this cast:
Lord Ogleby J. Gilbert
Canton John Sefton
Lovewell C. Fisher
Sterling Mark Smith
Sir John Melville . B. T. Ringgold
Mary Gannon's benefit took place Feb. 28, when " Romance and Reality " was given with this cast :
Mrs. Heidelberg . . Mrs. Vernon Miss Sterling . . . Miss Henriques
Fanny Clara Jennings
Betty lone Burke
Asper Manley Tom Badger . Oliver . . . Rosabella . . Blossom . .
. John Gilbert . A. W. Young . W. H. Norton . Mary Gannon Miss Henriques
Frank F. Robinson
Jack Charles Fisher
Lavender .... B. T. Ringgold
Barbara Mrs. Vernon
Betty Miss Clark
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March 2 was Mark Smith's benefit night, when " The Old English Gentleman " and " Americans in Paris " were seen. Frederic Rob- inson offered " The Rent Day " March 6, with this cast :
Martin Heywood Silver Jack . . Bullfrog . . . Polly . . . .
F. Robinson
Chas. Fisher
A. W. Young
Mary Gannon
Toby B. T. Ringgold
Hyssop W. Norton
Grantley . . . . J. C. Williamson
Rachel M. Henriques
Old Crumbs .... John Gilbert
For her benefit, March 8, Madeline Henriques presented " An Unequal Match " in which she acted Hester Grazebrook. Fanny Morant gave " Married Life " and " The Eton Boy " March 12 ; Charles Fisher acted Tom Tittler in " Knights of the Round Table " March 14 for his benefit ; and " The Serious Family " was played March 19 for Mr. Young's benefit, with this cast :
Aminadab Sleek ... A. W. Young
Charles B. T. Ringgold
Capt. Murphy Maguire, F. Robinson Mrs. Ormsby Dalmaine, Mary Gannon
Mrs. Charles Torrens, M. Henriques Emma Torrens . . . Mary Barrett
Frank J. C. Williamson
Lady Creamly . . . Mjrs. Vernon
"The Laughing Hyena" was also given. For the benefit of Clara Jennings " Second Love " and " High Life Below Stairs " were produced March 21. "Paul Pry" and "Deaf as a Post" for George Holland's, March 23, and March 26 Mrs. John Sefton pro- duced " Dombey and Son " with this cast :
Dombey Capt. Cuttle Toots . . Joe Bagstock Jack Bunsby Carker . . Walter Gay Susan Nipper
Chas. Fisher
Mark Smith
. W. Holston
W. H. Norton
John Sefton
B. T. Ringgold
J. C. Williamson
Mrs. John Sefton
Flowers Miss Clarke
Bob Graham
Sol Gills W. H. Pope
Brozley Ward
The Native Cashin
Mrs. Skewton . . . Mrs. Vernon
Edith Fanny Morant
Florence Miss Barrett
For his benefit, March 28, W. Norton offered " John Bull." For Mrs. Vernon's benefit " Single Life " was produced March 31, with this cast :
David Damper Charles . . . Kitty Skylark . Maria Macaw . Caroline Coy .
. John Gilbert J. C. Williamson
. Mary Gannon
Mrs. Vernon
Mrs. John Sefton
John Niggle Peter Pinkey Narcissus . Sarah Snare Jessy . .
lyiark Smith . A. W. Young B. T. Ringgold . Fanny Morant . Clara Jennings
"Ladies at Home" was also acted. For lone Burke's benefit " The Wife's Secret " was revealed ; W. Holston, for his appeal, presented "The Porter's Knot," never before acted here, and the farce, " Boots at the Swan." The cast of the first piece was : Stephen Scatter . . . Chas. Fisher
Smoothly Smirk . . . A. W. Young Augustus .... B. T. Ringgold Mrs. Burr Mrs. Vernon
Samson Burr .... W. Holston
Oakhum Geo. Holland
Alice Clara Jennings
26o A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1866
April 9 Lester Wallack made his first appearance in twelve months in " She Stoops to Conquer," which had this cast :
Young Marlowe Hardcastle . . Charles Marlowe Tony Lumpkin Diggory . . . Hastings . . Jeremy . . .
Lester Wallack
John Gilbert
. Geo. Browne
. Geo. Holland
. A. W. Young
B. T. Ringgold
J. C. Williamson
Stingo . . . Roger . . . Tim Twist Miss Hardcastle Miss Neville . Mrs. Hardcastle
W. H. Pope . . Graham . . . Ward Mary Gannon M. Henriques Mrs. Vernon
"The Wonder " was given April 11 ; "How She Loves Him" March 12 ; and April 16, " Don Caesar de Bazan," when Linda Windell, danseuse, with Louise Carman, appeared in a pas de deux. A matinde performance of " Norma," in Italian, was sung April 21 for the benefit of Sig. Massimilliani. It had this cast :
Norma . Adelgisa
Miss McCuIlough I PoUione , . . Mile. Stella ' Oroveso
Sig. Massimilliani , . . Sig. Bellini
Chas. Reade's " It 's Never Too Late to Mend " had its first per- formance in America May 7, and with this cast :
George Fielding . . . F. Robinson Thomas Robinson . . Chas. Fisher William Fielding . J. C. Williamson Little Savage . . Master McCormick Susan Merton , . Miss Henriques Mr. Meadows . . . Mark Smith
Josephs Mary Barrett
Evans Mr. Graham
Terry Mr. Leonard
Black Bill Mr. Barnes
Ralph Mr. Wilson
Sarah Miss Barrett
Jackey A. W. Young
Peter Crawley ... W. Holston Mr. Eden .... B. T. Ringgold Gable Girton .... Mr. Wilkinson
Mr. Merton Mr. Pope
Hitchen Mr. Ward
Josh Mr. Cashin
Isaac Levi John Gilbert
The first version of " It's Never Too Late to Mend," by Charles Reade, was played at Drury Lane Theatre, London, under the title of " Gold/' on Jan. 10, 1853. The cast was:
Geo. Sandford William Sandford Henry Winchester Isaac Levi . . .
Mr. Davenport . . Moorhouse . . . Hughes Edward Stirling
Tom Robinson Crawley . . Susan Merton
Henry Wallack
Chas. Selby
. Fanny Vining
The season closed June 9, and the summer term commenced June 1 1, with Dan Bryant in " Born to Good Luck," and " Handy Andy." July 28 the theatre closed for rehearsal of " Shamus O'Brien, the Bould Boy of Glengall, or A Tale of '98," written by Thomas B. Mac- donough and Fred G. Maeder, and produced July 30 for the first time on any stage, and with this cast -
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Shamus O'Brien "l
Owney Dugan 1
Denny Doyle [ '
Higheen O'LearyJ
Sir Derry Downs
Lieut. Lovell Kennedy,
Miles O'Halloran
Mrs. Kate O'Connor, Mrs. Mark Smith
Dan Bryant
, W. R. Floyd B. T. Ringgold W. J. Leonard
Widow O'Brien Father Malone Col. Tarleton . Corney Ryan . Capt. Darcy . Darby the Blast Mary Kennedy
Mrs. John Sefton
Chas. Fisher
Geo. Holland
J. F. Hagan
C. Williamson
G. F. Browne
Rosa Cooke
The season of 1866-67 commenced Sept. 18. The company was composed of J. W. Wallack, John Gilbert, Geo. Holland, B. T. Ring- gold, J. S. Wright, C. H. Rockwell, Frederic Robinson, Charles Fisher, A. W. Young, W. H. Norton, J. C. Williamson, Geo. Browne, W. H. Pope, Mr. James, Roberts, W. J. Leonard, Lester Wallack, Madeline Henriques, Mrs. Vernon, Fanny Morant, Mrs. John Sefton, Fanny Green, Mary Gannon, Clara Jennings, lone Burke, Mary Barrett, Miss Carman, Mrs. and Miss Timony, Misses Day, Clarke, and Chapman. Edward Mollenhauer was leader of the orchestra ; John Gilbert, acting manager ; John Selwyn, stage director ; J. S. Wright, prompter ; and Theo. Moss, treasurer. " The Fast Family," an adaptation of Sardou's " Le Famille Benoiton," by Benj. Webster, was the initial play, and had this cast :
Mons. Benoiton . Mons. Didier . . Francois . . . M. de Vicompte . Prudent Fomichel Blanche Didier .
John Gilbert
Chas. Fisher
C. H. Rockwell
F. Robinson
. A. W. Young
. M. Henriques
Fanfan Benoiton . Rose Benoiton Camille Benoiton Clotide .... Adolphine . . . M. Fornichel . .
. Ella Chapman Clara Jennings . Fanny Green . Fanny Morant Mrs. John Sefton . Geo. Holland
This was Mr. Rockwell's first appearance here. Dr. Westland Marston's comedy, " The Favorite of Fortune," was first presented in America Oct. 8, and thus cast :
Frank Annerly . Tom Sutherland . Mr. Fox Bromley Lucy Dorrington Hester Lorington Mrs. Lorington .
Frederic Robinson Chas. Fisher . A. W. Young . Mary Gannon . M. Henriques . Fanny Morant
Euphemia Witherby (first appear- ance here) . . Mrs. Sedley Brown Mrs. Witherby . . Mrs. John Sefton Camilla Price .... Fanny Green Major Price .... John Gilbert
" The Fast Family " was repeated Oct. 10. H. J. Byron's comedy, " ;^ioo,ooo," was acted for the first time in America Oct. 22, and with this cast:
Joe Barlow Mr. Fluker Pyefinch . . Gibbons . . Gerald Goodwin Mr. Pennythorne
. . John Gilbert . . A. W. Young . J. C. Williamson . . W. H. Pope Frederic Robinson . . Chas. Fisher
Sir Rumsey Waters Maj. Blackshaw Mrs. Barlow . Alice Barlow . Jane Plover Arabella Pell .
, G. F. Browne W. H. Norton , Mrs. Vernon . M. Henriques . Mary Barrett Mary Green
262 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D867
A musical matinee was given Oct. 30, when Mme. Marietta Gazzaniga, Adelaide Phillips, Sig. Anastasi, Herr Mollenhauer (vio- linist), and Geo. W. Colby appeared. Nov. 5 " The Rivals " was played, with the first appearance this season of B. T. Ringgold. The comedy had this cast :
Sir Anthony Absolute . John Gilbert Capt. Absolute . Frederic Robinson Sir Lucius O'Trigger . W. H, Norton
Acres Chas. Fisher
Faulkland .... B. T. Ringgold
David Geo. Holland
Fag A. W. Young
Thomas Mrs. Pope
Boy Mr. Cashin
Lydia .... Mrs. Sedley Brown
Julia Madeline Henriques
Mrs. Malaprop . . . Mrs. Vernon Lucy Mrs. John Sefton
Mme. Gazzaniga gave a second and last matinde Nov. 7. " The Double Gallant" was acted Nov. 12. "Dreams of Delusion" and "Rural Felicity" was the programme Nov. 24. "Married Life," Nov. 27; "Dreams of Delusion" and "Poor Gentleman," Dec. i. Lester Wallack first appeared this season Dec. 3 as Young Marlowe in "She Stoops to Conquer;" "The Wonder" was seen Dec. 4; Dec. S, "Central Park;" Dec. 10, "To Marry or Not to Marry" and "Rural Felicity;" Dec. 11, "Irish Heiress;" Dec. 12, " She Stoops to Conquer ;" Dec. 15, "To Marry or Not to Marry" and "Deaf as a Post." "Ours," T. W. Robertson's comedy, with Artemus Ward as joint author for copyright purposes only, was seen for the first time in America Dec. 19, with this cast :
Bradley .... Benson .... Hugh Chalcote . Angus McAllister Sir Alex. Shendryn
. W. H. Pope
. . Mr. Ward
Lester Wallack
B. T. Ringgold
John Gilbert
Prince Perovsky Sergeant Jones Blanche Haye Lady Shendryn May Netley
Chas. Fisher . W. H. Norton Miss Henriques . Fanny Morant . Mary Gannon
Jan. 21, 1867, a benefit was given for the families of the seamen who were lost in the ocean yacht race. " A Dangerous Game," an adaptation of Sardou's " Nos Bon Villageois," by A. W. Young, was given Feb. 4, with this cast :
Gringoire .... George Holland
Floupin A. W. Young
Mons. Boutille . . . . T. Graham
Dr. Piver T. Ward
Courtcuisse E. Cashin
Jean W. H. Pope
Baron De Villepreux
Jas. W. Wallack, Jr. Monsieur Morrison . . John Gilbert Henri Morrison . Frederic Robinson
Mons. Grandmeul . W. J. Leonard Madame Boutille . . Mrs. Timony Tetillard . . . . J. C. Williamson
Genevieve M. Henriques
Pauline Clara Jennings
Mariotte .... Miss M. Barrett
Maguelon Fanny Green
Yveline Miss M. Scott
Perrette Miss Day
The Southern Relief Association had a matinde benefit March 2, and " Ours " was acted. Watts Phillips' new comedy, " Invest- ment," was seen March 5, with this cast:
18673
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Sir Arthur Plynlimmon, J. W. Wallack Mr. Jonathan Garroway . C. Fisher Sir Paul Pantile . . . Geb. Holland Owen Percival . . B. T. Ringgold Alderman Fungus . . G. F. Browne Blanche Plynlimmon, Clara Jennings
William Kite . . . . A. W. Young
Flimsey J. C. Williamson
Transfer W. J. Leonard
Mrs. Chicane . . . Fanny Morant
Tawdry Mrs. John Sefton
Jane Mrs. Timony
" Henry Dunbar, or the Outcast," was revived March 12. A concert was given March 16 by Parepa-Rosa, Carl Rosa, W. J. Hill, Sig. Fosati, Herr Honig, and Wm. Dressier. John Gilbert offered "The Fast Family" for his benefit March 18; Mary Gannon pre- sented "Paul Pry" and "Rural Felicity" March 20; for his benefit, March 22, Chas. Fisher gave " The Wife's Secret ; " for Madeline Henriques' benefit, March 25, "Masks and Faces" was done, with this cast :
Colley Cibber ... Geo. Browne Hernsdown . . . W. J. Leonard
CoUander T. Graham
James Burdock ... W. H. Pope
Call Boy E. Cashin
Pompey . . . Master McCormack Mabel Vane . . . Clara Jennings
Kitty Clive Mary Barrett
Maid Miss Carman
Sir Charles Pomander, B. T. Ringgold Lysimachus Triplet, Miss E. Le Brun Peg WofBngton , . . M. Henriques Mrs. Triplet . . . Miss F. Green Roxalana . . Miss D. McCormack
Triplet Chas. Fisher
Quin Geo. Holland
Ernest Vane ... W. H. Norton
Snarl A. W. Young
Soaper J- C. Williamson
Frederic Robinson acted Sir Giles Overreach in " A New Way to Pay Old Debts," March 27, for his " appeal." Fanny Morant had a benefit March 29, and played Mrs. Ormsby Delmaine in "The Serious Family ; " " High Life Below Stairs " was also given. Geo. Holland took his benefit April i, when " Paul Pry" and "The Secret " were acted. Boucicault's " Hunted Down, or the Two Lives of Mary Leigh," was seen April 2 for the first time in America, and with this cast:
Porter T. Ward
Roberts E. Cashin
Clara Clara Jennings
Fanny Miss M. Barrett
John Leigh . . Frederic Robinson Rawton Scudamore . . Chas. Fisher
Lady Glencarrig . . . Fanny Morant Mary Leigh . . . . M. Henriques
Eliza Miss M. Scott
Jane Mrs. Timony
Willie . . . Miss Emma Le Brun Maud . . . Miss D. McCormack
"The Laughing Hyena" was given the same night. Clara Jennings, for her benefit, April 3, played Mrs. Charles Bromley in " Simpson & Co.," and Emily Worthington in " The Poor Gentle- man." A. W. Young acted Billy Lackaday and sang "Sure, Mortal Man was Born for Sorrow," in " Sweethearts and Wives," for his benefit, April 5. " Americans in Paris " was also acted. " An Unequal Match " and " Simpson & Co." were played April 8 for Mrs. John Sefton's benefit. Madeline Henriques took her "fare- well " April 20, as Peg Woffington in " Masks and Faces." This
264 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisey
was announced as her last appearance on the stage, but she reappeared here in September, 1869. Boucicault's "Flying Scud, or a Four- Legged Fortune," was first acted April 24, and with this cast:
Tom Meredith . Frederic Robinson Capt. Grindley Goodge, B. T. Ringgold
Colonel Mulligan Bob Buckskin Fred Lanaghan Julia Latimer . Lady Woodbie Sam Wobbler . Mo Davis . . Nat Gosling . Lord Woodbie Quail . . . Chouser . . Dorling . . .
W. H. Norton
J. C. Williamson
. Miss Talfourd
Clara Jennings
Mrs. John Sefton
. Joseph Curran
Charles Fisher
. A. W. Young
. Mary Barrett
. G. F. Browne
. W. J. Leonard
Mr. Graham
Tittums Mr. Ward
Jenkins W. H. Pope
Bailiff Mr. Roberts
Dicky Brush E. Cashin
Neb Compo .... Fanny Green
Harry Stofel Miss Scott
Jim Titler Miss Day
Hall Hoffer . . . Mrs. M. Timony Tom Butler . . . Miss Williams
Jack Lyle Miss Clark
Joe Hiram Miss Timony
Jerry Lemon .... Miss Graham Tony Grimsaw . . . Miss Thomas Katey Rideout . . . Agnes Elliott
This was Agnes Elliott's American debut. This sporting drama closed the season June 8. Agnes Elliott retired from the stage and married John W. Keller, a gentleman connected with the New York press, and also Commissioner of Charities and Correction. Dan Bryant began a summer season June 10, during which " The Irish Emigrant," " Handy Andy," " Born to Good Luck," " How to Pay the Rent,'' "Barney, the Baron," " Shamus O'Brien," and "The Bells of Shandon " were played. This last drama was written for him by John Brougham and Henry L. Morford. Bryant closed his engagement July 27, and was followed July 29 by Lotta.
Charlotte Crabtree (Lotta) had been engaged by Clifton W. Tayleure. The following account of her appearance was given to me by Mr. Tayleure :
"Lotta had no specialty, and selected as the opening bill 'The Pet of the Petticoats ' and the farce of ' Family Jars.' In both pieces she played the banjo and danced a jig. ' Little Nell,' a dramatization of ' Old Curiosity Shop,' by John Brougham, was first acted Aug. 14. Lotta played the title r61e. Edward Coleman was the Quilp; J. C. Williamson, Dick SwiveUer; W. J. Leonard, Brass; and Mrs. E. C. Winter, Mrs. Quilp. The engagement lasted seven weeks (ter- minating Sept. 12), and was broken off to receipts averaging nearly $1,100 each performance. Lotta realized for her share about |io,ooo. Matindes were not in order in 1867. The two matindes a week custom of the present time would then have paid her, upon the usual terms, nearly $6,000 more. The understanding was that the engagement, which was simply verbal, should continue for two years. For personal reasons I was extremely anxious to terminate it at the end of the New York term. One afternoon I hastened to the little house on Amity street which Lotta had recently purchased for a residence, to interview her upon the subject. To my astonishment, and equally to my delight, the little lady met my opening hint with the laughing assertion that she had looked upon the two years ' suggestion ' simply as a joke of mine, and had made other arrangements. She does not to this hour know that I was prepared to pay very liberally for a release from that ' joke.' "
1867]
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265
The regular season of 1867-68 commenced Sept. 25, with the following company: Lester Wallack, John Gilbert, Jas. W. Wal- lack, Mark Smith, J. H. Stoddart, Geo. Holland, Charles Fisher, J. B. Polk, J. C. Williamson, G. F. Browne, W. H. Pope, A. W. Young, Chas. H. Rockwell, B. T. Ringgold, W. J. Leonard, T. Ward, J. Curran, C. Sherman, E. Cashin, J. S. Wright, B. Durand, Mrs. Clara Jennings, Mrs. Vernon, Mrs. Wm. Winter, Mrs. John Sefton, Mary Gannon, Annie Ward (now Tiffany), Emily Mes- tayer, Fanny Morant, Mary Scott, Fanny Green, Mary Barrett, Jennie Day, T. Timony, Carman, Homer, Monell, Kate Ranoe. Thos. Baker, musical director; John Gilbert, acting manager; J. G. Hanley, stage director; J. S. Wright, prompter; Theo. Moss, treasurer. The following was the opening bill : " Meg's Diver- sion," and Burnand's burlesque, "The Latest Edition of Black- Eyed Susan, or the Little Bill that Was Taken Up," both of which were produced for the first time in America. " Meg's Diversion " was cast as follows :
Jeremy Crow .... John Gilbert Margaret .... Clara Jennings
Ashley Merton . . B. T. Ringgold Cornelia .... Mrs. W. Winter
Jasper Pidgeon . . . A. W. Young Mrs. Netwold .... Annie Ward Roland Pidgeon . . . . J. B. Polk
This was J. B. Polk's debut at this theatre. In the burlesque Kate Ranoe made her American d6but, and the cast was :
William Kate Ranoe
Capt. Crosstree . . . Mark Smith Doggrass .... George Holland Hatchett G. F. Browne
Shaun Ploughshare J. C. Williamson Black Eyed Susan . . Mary Gannon Dolly Mayflower - . . Fanny Green Raker Mary Barrett
Oct. 14 " The Rent Day " and the petite comedy, " 40 and 50," were played. E. L. Davenport and Fanny Morant appeared Oct. 21 in "Still Waters Run Deep." Rose Eytinge made her first appearance Oct. 28, as Margaret Wentworth in " Henry Dunbar." "A New Way to Pay Old Debts," Nov. i, introduced for the first time in this theatre J. H. Stoddart as Marrall. "The Honeymoon " was given Nov. 7, and " Belle's Stratagem " was seen Nov. 14. Watts Phillips' new play, " Maud's Peril," was given for the first time in New York Nov. 25, and with this cast:
Toby Taperloy . James W. Wallack James Burrell . . . G. F. Browne Sir Ralph Challoner . J. H. Stoddart Susan Taperloy . . Mrs. John Sefton Gerald Gwynn . . B. T. Ringgold
" Dr. Dilworth," by John Oxenford, was seen Dec. 4, with this cast:
Mr. Paddington . . . G. W. Browne Second Officer .... Mr. White Mrs. Dilworth . . . Mrs. Vernon Zoe Miss Ranoe
Dr. Dilworth .... John Gilbert
Syntax Mr. Young
First Officer Mr. Ward
Terentius O'Loughlin, J. C. Williamson
266 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D868
"Town and Country" had this cast Dec. 9, being the first time it was acted here in five years :
Reuben Glenroy Jerry Hawbuck Rosalie Somers Goody Hawbuck Cosey . . . Trot .... Capt. Glenroy Plastic . . . Owen Glenroy Armstrong . .
J. W. Wallack
A. W. Young
Clara Jennings
Miss Carman
John Gilbert
Mark Smith
. J. B. Polk
B. T. Ringgold
W. J. Leonard
. W. H. Pope
Ross . . . Williams Evans . . Robin . . Dwindle Waiter . . Mrs. Glenroy Mrs. Moreen Mrs. Trot . Taffline . .
Fagin J. W. Wallack Charley E. Cashin
Bill Sikes . . . . E. L. Davenport Policeman G. White
Oliver Twist .... Mary Barrett Tailor W. H. Pope
Bumble Geo. Holland Barney B. Durand
Brownlow G. F. Browne Officer C. Sherman
Monks C. H. Rockwell Nancy Sikes .... Rose Eytinge
Artful Dodger ... A. W. Young Mrs. Corney .... Mrs. Vernon
Fang J. C. Williamson Rose Maylie Mary Scott
Noah Claypole Leonard Mrs. Baldwin .... Miss Carman
Vellum T. Ward Charlotte .... Mrs. T. Timony
Toby Crackett . . E. M. Holland Susan Mrs. Monell
Butcher Boy J. Curran
Lester Wallack, after an absence of twelve months, appeared Jan. 13, 1868, as Viscount de Ligny in "The Captain of the Watch," and in " Woodcock's Little Game " (produced for the first time in this theatre). " Ours " was revived Jan. 27, and cast as follows :
George Browne
E. Milton Holland
. T. Ward
. E. Cashin
. G. White
. B. Durand
Fanny Morant
Mrs. Vernon
Mrs. John Sefton
. . Mary Scott
Hugh Chalcote . . Lester Wallack Col. Sir Alexander Shendryn
John Gilbert Lieut. Angus McAllister
B. T. Ringgold The Prince Perovsky . . J.B.Polk Major Samprey . . . W. J. Leonard
Lady Shendryn Sergeant Jones Bradley . . . Benson . . . Mary Netley . Blanche Haye . Ellen . . .
Fanny Morant
A. W. Young
W. H. Pope
. T. J. Ward
Mary Gannon
Kate Ranoe
. Mary Scott
This was Mary Gannon's last appearance on the stage. "Pauline" was revived Feb. 11, with Lester Wallack as Count Horace de Beauval, Rose Eytinge as Pauline, and Kate Ranoe as Gabrielle. " Rosedale " was revived March 9.
April 6 J. W. Wallack and E. L. Davenport reappeared in "Oliver Twist;" "The Honeymoon" was played April 13 with J. W. Wallack as Duke Aranza, E. L. Davenport as Rolando, and Rose Eytinge as Juliana. "The Belle's Stratagem" was given April 14 with J. W. Wallack as Doricourt, Davenport as Flutter, John Gilbert as Hardy, and Rose Eytinge as Letitia Hardy ; " Still Waters Run Deep," April 15: J. W. Wallack as John Mildmay,
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E. L. Davenport as Capt. Hawksley, Fanny Morant as Mrs. Stern- hold, and Kate Ranoe as Mrs. Mildmay. Charles Fisher made his first appearance this season April 20, as the Major in " Henry Dunbar." J. W. Wallack played Henry Dunbar. "Love's Sac- rifice" was played April 30; May i, "The Rivals;" May 6, "Town and Country ; " May 11" Masks and Faces " was acted, with Rose Eytinge as the heroine.
"Town and Country" was given May 12; "The White Cock- ade" was seen May 14 for the first time, and with this cast:
Sir Andrew Silverton J. W. Wallack Capt. Hector Kilruddock
B. T. Ringgold Sergt. GufEoge . . J. C. Williamson Sir Wm. Ashford . W. J. Leonard Corporal Weatherspoon B. Durand Isabel Ashford . . Clara Jennings
Enoch Flicker Evan Mcjan . Cyril Silverton Chasseloup . . Highland Kate Hanover Bess . Jessie McLeod
J. H. Stoddart Chas. Fisher . J. B. Polk Jas. McGee Kate Ranoe Annie Ward Mary Barrett
" The Stranger " was played June i for the first time in four years. Clara Fisher made her first appearance here as Annette, Rose Eytinge was Mrs. Haller, and J. W. Wallack, the Stranger. The season closed June 6.
A summer term began June 8 under the direction of Theo. Moss. Brougham's " Lottery of Life " was presented for the first time, and with this cast:
Terry John Brougham
Bob IVtawley . . . Edward Lamb Sir Wm. Downe . . . . T. J. Hind Oil Tommy .... B. T. Ringgold
Dodgers W. J. Leonard
Dummy Dennis .... J. Quigley
DufEy E. Cashin
Hawkeye E. Menturn
Sam G. White
Mordie Solomons . . Chas. Fisher
Robert Mordaunt . C. H. Rockwell
Frank James McGee
Polly EfRe Germon
Miss Tartar .... Fanny Morant
Judy George Holland
Emily Miss M. Barrett
Marx Miss F. Carman
Biddy Miss C. Carman
Lucy Miss E. Monell
Jenny Miss J. Day
Lotta commenced on Aug. 10 in the new drama, by Edmund Falconer, "Fire Fly, or the Fiend of the Flag":
Fire Fly .
Harold Cecil
Rake . . .
Sadrick Levi
Beauchamp
Millbank
The Duke of Lyonnaise
. . . Lotta Chas. Fisher E. Lamb T. McWade W. J. Leonard W. H. Pope
Berkley Cecil . Ben Arslan . . Col. Chateauroy
B. T. Ringgold
C. H. Rockwell George Holland Theo. Hamilton
Marshal McDonald . . . T. J. Hind Marquise de Renardire, Mary Barrett
Venetia Laura Phillips
Barbe Grise H. George
Arab Sheik . . . . L. J. Williams
1st Arab P. H. Wilson
Officer H. Jacobs
Orderly J. McGee
Aide-de-camp .... J. F. Quigley Tata Leroux J. T. Ward
"Little Nell and the Marchioness" was given Sept. 6 with Lotta as the two heroines, and Chas. Fisher as Dick Swiveller.
268 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cises
The next regular season opened Sept. 23. The company con- sisted of J. W. Wallack, Charles Fisher, A. W. Young, J. B. Polk, J. L. Matthews, Geo. F. Browne, C. H. Rockwell, W. J. Leonard, E. Cashin, J. Curran, John Gilbert, J. H. Stoddart, J. G. Hanley, Geo. Holland, B. T. Ringgold, J. S. Wright, E. M. Holland, J. Sherman, T. Ward, B. Durand, Lester Wallack, Rose Eytinge, Mrs. Vernon, Clara Jennings, Emily Mestayer, Annie Ward Tiffany, Mrs. Sedley Brown, Fanny Green, Mrs. John Sefton, Mary Barrett, Misses Carman, Clayton, A. Clarke, J. Engel, E. Monell, Jenny Day, and Mrs. Timony. " Simon Bernard " was given, with this cast:
Corporal . . . E. Milton Holland Mary Betrand . . Mrs. E. Fisher
Luzanne Fanny Green
Lizette Miss E. Monell
Simon Bernard Crux . . . George Bernard Matthew Dorvel
. J. W. Wallack . Charles Fisher B. T. Ringgold . G. F. Browne
This was Mrs. E. Fisher's first appearance here. ' Life " was also played this night, and was thus cast:
Dearer than
Michael Garner .... J. Gilbert Uncle Ben .... J. H. Stoddart Bob Gasset . . . . A. W. Young Old Bolter (first appearance
here) J. L. Matthews
Mr. Kedgely . . . . W. J. Leonard Mr. Armstrong .... J. Sherman
Mrs. Garner (first appear- ance here) . . . Emily Mestayer Mrs. Bridget Pellet, Annie Ward Tiffany Mrs. Mingle . . . Miss E. Carman Charley Garner .... J. B. Polk
Lucy Clara Jennings
Mrs. Chigley . . . Miss E. Monell
"Love's Sacrifice" was presented Oct. 8, with Rose Eytinge as Margaret Elmore, J. W. Wallack as Mathew Elmore, Chas. Fisher as Paul Lafont, and Clara Jennings as Herminie. "Masks and Faces " was done Oct. i; "The Stranger," Oct. 13. "The Lan- cashire Lass " was first acted Oct. 26, and had this cast :
Kate Garston . . . Clara Jennings Fanny Danville . Mrs. Sedley Brown Mr. Danville . . . . C. H. Rockwell
Kirby G. F. Browne
Milder J. L. Matthews
Ruth Kirby .... Rose Eytinge
A Party by the Name of
Johnson . . . . J. W. Wallack Robert Redburn . . Chas. Fisher
Jellick Geo. Holland
Spotty A. W. Young
Neb Clayton J. B. Polk
Sergeant Donovan . . W. J. Leonard
Lester Wallack made his first appearance this season Dec. 14, in " Two Can Play at That Game, " which, acted for the first time here, had this cast :
Howard Leslie . . . Lester Wallack I Charles Arundel . . B. T. Ringgold Lucy Clara Jennings |
"Follies of a Night " was done the same night, with this cast:
Mile. Duval . . Count De Brissac Pierre Palliott .
Mary Barrett E. M. Holland Lester Wallack
Dr. Druggendraft . Duchess de Chartres Duke de Chartres .
, John Gilbert
Rose Eytinge
. Chas. Fisher
1869]
WALLACK'S THEATRE
269
"Speed the Plough" was presented Dec. 15, and thus cast:
Bob Handy . . Sir Abel Handy- Farmer Ashfield Henry .... Morrington . . Gerald . . .
Lester Wallack . .J. Gilbert . G. Holland
B. T. Ringgold
C. H. Rockwell John L. Matthews
Sir Philip Blandford Miss Blandford Evergreen . . . Dame Ashfield Susan . . . Lucy Handy
. . Chas. Fisher Mary Barrett . . Geo. F. Browne . . . Mrs. Vernon Annie Ward Tiffany . . Mrs. J. Sefton
" Captain of the Watch," "Woodcock's Little Game," " Two Can Play at That Game," "The Wonder," and "Follies of a Night" were played until Dec. 28, when "Money" was given with this cast:
Dudley Smooth . . . . J. B. Polk Sir Frederick . . . B. T. Ringgold Servant to Sir John . . . T. Ward Servant to Evelyn .... J. Curran
Stout John Gilbert
Graves Chas. Fisher
Alfred Evelyn . . . Lester Wallack
Lord Glossmore Clara Douglass Lady Franklin . Georgina Vesey Sir John . . . Sharpe . . .
. C. H. Rockwell Clara Jennings . Emily Mestayer Mrs. Sedley Brown . John Matthews . Geo. F. Browne
The theatre closed Jan. 30, 1869, for a rehearsal of "Much Ado
About Nothing," presented Feb. Benedick .... Lester Wallack
Dogberry Leonato Verges . Don Pedro Don John Claudio . Antonio .
. John Gilbert Charles Fisher J. H. Stoddart . . J. B. Polk C. H. Rockwell B. T. Ringgold G. F. Browne
I, with this cast :
Borachio J. L. Matthews
Margaret . . . Mrs. Sedley Brown Conrade . . . . E. Milton Holland The Friar .... W. J. Leonard
The Sexton E. Cashin
Beatrice^ Rose Eytinge
Hero Clara Jennings
Ursula . . . Annie Ward Tiffany
Incidental to the second act the madrigal, " Sigh No More, Ladies," sung by Carrie Spier, Mrs. L. Dallimore, W. Dallimore, G. How- ard, and H. HoUoway. The comedy was played continuously for seven weeks. During its "run" Rose Eytinge was ill for a few nights, and Clara Jennings played Beatrice, March 13.
"School" was first acted in this country here March 15, and had this cast :
James E. Cashin
Noami Tighe .... Effie Germon
Bella Clara Jennings
Mrs. Sutcliffe .... Mrs. Vernon
Jack Poyntz . . . Lester Wallack Dr. Sutcliffe .... John Gilbert Beau Farintosh . . . . C. Fisher Mr. Krux .... J. H. Stoddart Lord Beaufoy . . . Owen Marlowe
Mrs. Vernon made her last theatre April 5, 1869, as Mrs. stage until May i.
"Caste" was acted May 3, for the first time here
appearance on the stage at this Sutcliffe. "School" kept the
Hon. George d'AIroy . Chas. Fisher Sam Gerridge . . . . A. W. Young Capt. Hawtree . . . Owen Marlowe Marquise de St. Maur, Emily Mestayer
Eccles . . Esther Eccles Polly Eccles
J. H. Stoddart . Rose Eytinge . Effie Germon
2/0 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1869
It was played for one month. The season closed on June 4.
"Old Mother Hubbard, or Harlequin Bo Peep and Boy Blue," was the attraction for the summer season, which began June 5 under the direction of the Lauri Pantomime company. It had this cast :
Boy Blue Rose Massey
Bo Peep EfiSe Germon
Pipsy Emily Lewis
Wipsy Miss E. Geddes
Fairy Queen .... Lizzie Mahon Virtuous Rustic . . E. M. Holland Mother Hubbard . . . Henri Lauri
Betsy Jane . Baron Wolf Chickaleary . Her Dog Her Monkey Her Cat . .
Fanny Prestige . . G. Beckett Graham Elliott . Charles Lauri Edward Lauri Master Martinetti
HARLEQUINADE.
Harlequin John Lauri I Policeman Edward Lauri
Clown Charles Lauri Columbine Mile. Lauri
Pantaloon Henri Lauri |
The burlesque of " Coralline " followed June 26 for one week, and was succeeded July 5 by the Selwyn dramatic and burlesque company, in "Dora" and "Black Eyed Susan." H. F. Daly, Frederic Robinson, C. H. Vandenhoff, Stuart Robson, Harry Pear- son, Lizzie Price, Kitty Blanchard (Mrs. McKee Rankin), and Jacobs were in the organization. " The Long Strike " was played June 26. W. R. Floyd, J. H. Stoddart, Ringgold, C. H. Morton, Matthews, Rockwell, Cashin, Porter, Curran, Leonard, Holland, Germon, Carman, and Clayton were in the cast. This was the debut here of C. H. Morton, and the first appearance of W. R. Floyd in two years. John E. Owens appeared Aug. 2 as Unit, in Mrs. H. L. Bateman's " Self. " " Self " was played for three weeks, and was followed by "Solon Shingle," "The Live Indian," and "The Victims." The season closed Sept. 11 with a matinee per- formance for the benefit of the family of J. G. Hanley, formerly stage manager here.
The next regular season opened Sept. 15, i86g, with "The School for Scandal," which had this cast:
Chas. Surface . . Sir Benjamin . . Sir Harry Bumper Lady Teazle Mrs. Candour . . Lady Sneer well Maria
Sir Peter John Gilbert
Joseph J. W. Wallack
Sir Oliver Chas. Fisher
Crabtree .... J. H. Stoddart
Careless C. H. Rockwell
Moses J. C. Williamson
Trip E. M. Holland
This was the debut here of Chas. Wyndham, and the first appear- ance in two years of Madeline Henriques. The first production in America of Robertson's comedy, "Progress," took place Sept. 27, with this cast :
. Chas. Wyndham
Owen Marlowe
. . A. Mathison
Madeline Henriques
. Emily Mestayer
. Mrs. J. Sefton
Laura Phillips
1870]
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271
John Feme .... J. W. Wallack
Dr. Brown John Gilbert
Lord Mompesson .... W. Hield Hon. Arthur Mompesson . C. Fisher Mr. Bunnythome . . J. H. Stoddart Bob Bunnytliorne . J. C. Williamson
Eva (her first appearance
at this theatre) . . . Louisa Moore Mrs. Myrnie . . . Mrs. John Sefton Mr. Danley ... E. M. Holland Wykham .... W. J. Leonard
Oct. II " An Unequal Match " was revived with Madeline Henriques as Hester Grazebrook. Charles Hale made his bow here as Sam Gerridge in "Caste," Oct. 12; "The School for Scandal " was done Oct. 13; "The Heir at Law" was played Oct. 23; Nov. I, "Still Waters Run Deep;" Nov. 2, "The Heir at Law." "Home" was done Nov. 8 for the first time in America, and had this cast :
Colonel John White . Lester Wallack Capt. MountrafEe . . J. H. Stoddart Bertie Thompson . . B. T. Ringgold Mrs. Pinchbeck . Madeline Henriques
Lucy Dorrison Dora Thornbaugh Mr. Dorrison . .
Effie Germon
Laura Phillips
John Gilbert
"Home" was originally called "Across the Atlantic." Joseph Jefferson got it from T. W. Robertson, intending to produce it in this country. He put it in rehearsal at the Varieties Theatre, New Orleans, La., during the season of 1867, but being dissatisfied with the r61e of Col. White (which he was to play), he returned the play to Mr. Robertson with a draft for £100, and Mr. Robert- son, after slightly altering it, sold it to Edward A. Sothern, who produced it at the Haymarket, London. On Nov. 20, "Henry Dunbar " was revived ; Dec. 6 " The Wonder " was seen ; Dec. 7, "Captain of the Watch" and "Woodcock's Little Game;" Dec. 13, " Ernestine " and " Trying It On ; " Dec. 23, " Wild Oats ; " and Dec. 27, "Central Park, or the House with Two Doors."
Jan. 10, 1870, "Ours" was presented, with Louisa Moore as Blanche, originally played by her in London. Boucicault and Byron's drama, "Lost at Sea," was first acted in America Feb. 28, and was thus cast:
Mr. Franklyn Mr. Hield
Walter Coram . . . J. W. Wallack
Mr. Rawlings C. Fisher
Jos. Jessop . . . . J. H. Stoddart
Smyly EfEe Germon
Griffiths .... E. M. Holland Farmer Green . . . J. F. Quigley Lord Alfred Colebrooke, Owen Marlowe Laura Franklyn . . . Laura Phillips
McKay . . Bidder . . Dr. Thorpe Newsboy . Katey . . Mrs. Jessop Mrs. Pybus Miss Bruce Child . .
. . . Leonard . . . Durand . . . Bowen . . Miss Rowe Miss M. Henriques . Mrs. J. Seiton Miss Fowler Miss Clayton Jennie Timony
It was withdrawn April 6, and Tom Taylor's Old Acres" was acted, with this cast:
'New Men and
272 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [:i87o
Mr. Vavasour Samuel Brown Mr. Bunter . . Seeker .... Gantry .... Bertie Fitz Urse . Berthold Blasenburg,
C. H. Rockwell . J. W. Wallack . J. H. Stoddart E. M. Holland . . Mr. Peck B. T. Ringgold J. C. Williamson
Lady Matilda Vavasour
Emily Mestayer Lilian Vavasour . Miss M. Henriques Mrs. Bunter . . . Mrs. John Sefton Fanny Bunter . . . Laura Phillips Mrs. Brill Miss Rowe
For the matinee April 16 Lester Wallack reappeared in "Ours." A special matinee performance occurred April 20 for the benefit of Mrs. Sedley Brown, when was acted " A Gentleman from Ire- land," with John Brougham as Gerald Fitzmaurice (his first ap- pearance in New York this season); Laura Phillips as Lucy; Edmund Falconer recited his own poem, "Anne Hathaway;" " The Robgh Diamond " followed, with John S. Clarke as Cousin Joe, Mrs. Sedley Brown as Margery, Owen Marlowe as William Evergreen, and T. J. Hind as Lord Plato; Clara Fisher sang; A. Sedgwick did a concertina solo, and the entertainment closed with " The Debutante " : Charles Wheatleigh as Mons. Achille, Blanche Gray as Arabella.
May 6 " The Love Chase " and " Married Life " were presented ; May 9 Leicester Vernon's drama, "The Lancers," was given for the first time in America with this cast :
Col. Frank Epee .... C. Fisher Estelle Duvernay . . Louisa Moore
Blanquet . . . . . J. H. Stoddart Mme. d' Aplomb . . Emily Mestayer
Eugene B. T. Ringgold Mme. Pomponne . Mrs. John Sefton
Victor de Courcy . . C. Wyndham Jeanette Fanny Green
Troop Sergt. Major Mustache
J. C. Williamson
May 23 " The Rent Day " and " Is He Jealous .' " were given ; May 24, 28, "The Love Chase;" May 25, 27, "Americans in Paris" and "Trying It On;" May 30, "The Honeymoon;" and May 31, "Married Life;" June i "Love's Sacrifice" was revived; June 3, "The Rent Day" and "Is He Jealous.? " matinee June 4, "Americans in Paris" and "Trying It On." The season closed evening June 4 with "Love's Sacrifice." June 6 John Brougham began a summer term under Theo. Moss' management, in "The Red Light, or the Signal of Danger," which had this cast:
Edmund Macdermot, John Brougham Paul Maynard (first appearance
here) C. W. Barry
Dr. Bayne Chas. Fisher
Jehoshaphat Sharkey . J. H. Stoddart John Steele (first appearance
here) Joseph Sefton
Martin W. J. Leonard
Annie Steele Lizzie Price
Lady Arlington . . . Annie Deland Mrs. Holmes . . . Emily Mestayer
Servant J. Peck
Mary Steele . . . Carrie Jamison
A matinee performance was given June 7 for the benefit of Edmund Falconer, dramatist and actor. The bill consisted of the
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WALLACK'S THEATRE
273
second act of "Hamlet," with Chas. Fechter as the Prince, John Brougham as Polonius, Falconer as the First Actor, Milnes Levick as the King, Mrs. Melinda Jones as Gertrude, and Carlotta Leclercq as Ophelia; "Customs of the Country," by Mrs. Barney Williams, Marion Mordaunt, John Jack, C. H. Vandenhoff , and Fred Maeder ; a scene from "As You Like It," by J. W. Wallack, George Clarke, Alex Fitzgerald, and James Dunn; a recitation, "Anne Hathaway," by Mr. Falconer, and "A Sheep in Wolf's Clothing." The last named was cast as follows: Percy Kirk, Milnes Levick; Lord Churchill, M. W. Haviland; Jasper Carew, L. R. Shewell; Kester Chedzoy, Robert Pateman; Corp. Flintoff, E. T. Sin- clair; John Hayland, M. Daly; Anne Carew, Carlotta Leclercq; Keziah Mapletop, Emma Skerrett. "Minnie's Luck, or the Ups and Downs of City Life," by Brougham, written for Leona Cav- ender, was first acted June 27, and had this cast :
Horatio Pryer . . Melchezedeck Moggs, Barney O'Flynn . . Clara Willoughby Mrs. Horatio Pryer - Mrs. Willoughby Cleopatra . . Lawyer Goodwin Philip Wrexford Inkey Dick
John Brougham
J. H. Stoddart
. Joseph Sefton
Leona Cavender
. Annie Deland
Emily Mestayer
Marion Mordaunt
. . C. Fisher
. C. W. Barry
Lizzie Price
Comey Ryan Leonard
Mike Mulligan Quigley
Denis Doolan Blankman
Bart HoUigan Josans
Mat Maguffin Williams
Hans Wiegleman . , . Gambring
Matthew Peck
Patrick Curran
The Kitten .... Miss Fowler
Jane Miss Hayden
Bridget Miss Rowe
Leona Cavender closed July 9, and was followed July 11 by Joseph K. Emmet, who began his first New York engagement as a dramatic star. He was under engagement to Charles Gayler, who wrote a play for him called "Fritz, Our Cousin German." It had the following cast: Col. Crafton, Chas. Fisher; Robbit, B. T. Ringgold; Bloker, J. C. Williamson; Smasher, W. J. Leonard ; Adolphus Jenkins, E. M. Holland ; Judge Griffin, J. C. Padgett ; Lawyer Grim, Charles Rockwell ; Emmet as Fritz Van- derblinkinsloffen, Minnie Maddern as Little Fritz, Georgie Langley as Katrina, Gussie Chambers as Moppy, and Emily Mestayer as Metzler.
The season of 1870-71 commenced Sept. 20. The company was John Brougham, John Gilbert, George Clarke, Chas. Fisher, J. H. Stoddart, Owen Marlowe, B. T. Ringgold, Chas. Rockwell, J. C. Wiliamson, M. Lanagan, W. J. Leonard, J. Curran, E. M. Hol- land, J. Peck, Lester Wallack, Madeline Henriques, Effie Germon, Mrs. John Sefton, Annie Deland, Mrs. Thomas Barry, Emily Mestayer, Helen Tracy, Flora Clayton, the Misses Rowe, McCor- mack, James Fowler, Hayden, and Blaisdell. " The Rivals " was given for the opening bill of the season with this cast :
VOL. II. — 18
274 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D871
Sir Anthony Absolute . John Gilbert Capt. Absolute (first appearance
here) Geo. Clarke
Lydia Languish . Madeline Henriques Mrs. Malaprop . . Emily Mestayer Julia (first appearance at this
theatre) Helen Tracy
Faulkland Boy . . Lucy . . Sir Lucius Acres David Fag . .
B. T. Ringgold
. Master Heme
. Annie Deland
John Brougham
J. H. Stoddart
J. C. Williamson
E. M. Holland
'The Two Roses," was produced Oct.
James Alberry's comedy, 10, and thus cast:
Our Mr. Jenkins . . . J. H. Stoddart Ida (first appearance in this
city) .... Mrs. Thomas Barry Furnival (first appearance
here) M. Lanagan
Mrs. Jenkins . . . Emily Mestayer
This play proving a failure, gave place, Nov. 2 to " The Serious Family, " with this cast :
Mrs. Cupps Digby Grant John Wyatt Caleb . . Lottie . .
Mrs. John Sefton
. Chas. Fisher
Geo. Clarke
Owen Marlowe
. EfiSe Germon
Capt. Murphy Maguire
John Brougham Chas. Torrens . . . George Clarke Aminadab Sleek . . . J. H. Stoddart Widow Dalmaine, Madeline Henriques
Lady Sowerby Creamley
Mrs. John Sefton Mrs. Chas. Torrens, Mrs. Thos. Barry
Frank C. Rockwell
Emma Helen Tracy
Mme. Seebach gave a matinee performance, Nov. 5 of "Adri- enne Lecouvreur;" "The Road to Ruin" was done Nov. 14; Nov. 21, " The School for Scandal ; " and Nov. 28, " Caste. " The comedy, " croquettes," was acted for the first time in America Dec. 7. It was originally produced in England as "The Two Thorns;" the cast here was :
Sir Kid Parkhouse Arthur Minton Bates Curling . . Frank Parkhouse Mrs. Minton . . Lord Leyton . . Adolphus . . . Jones ....
. . E. Coleman
John Brougham
B. T. Ringgold
Chas. Rockwell
Miss Henriques
M. Lanagan
Chas. Fisher
Owen Marlowe
Servant J. Peck
Charmian Miss Hayden
Mrs. Crome .... Miss Fowler
Lillian Helen Tracy
Fanny Effie Germon
Gardner J- F. Quigley
Rogers W. J. Leonard
It was a failure, and was shelved Dec. 27 and the old comedies resumed. "The Heir at Law" was given Dec. 27. "War" (T. W. Robertson's play) was first acted in this country Jan. 3, 1871, and had this cast :
Col. de Rochevannes Herr Karl Hartmann Lotte Hartmann . .
Chas. Fisher
John Gilbert
Miss Henriques
Oscar Geo. Clarke
Capt. Sound . . . John Brougham Blanche Helen Tracy
Lester Wallack's first appearance this season was made Jan. 16 as Ruy Gomez in "Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady," and Sir Charles Coldstream in " Used Up. " This little comedy was first
1871:1
WALLACK'S THEATRE
275
produced by William Mitchell at the Old Olympic, in 1846, Charles Walcot playing Sir Charles as it never has since been played in this country, excepting, of course, by Mr. Charles Mathews.
Jan. 19 a benefit matinee performance was given for the widow and children of George Holland. " The Clandestine Marriage " was played Feb. 4. Geo. Clarke retired from the theatre Feb. 8. "Home" was revived Feb. 21, and "Blue Devils" was given the same night ; March 2 " Romance and Reality " was presented with M. Lanagan as Oliver; John Gilbert, Asper; Owen Marlowe, Frank Meredith; Brougham, Jack Swift; Mrs. Thos. Barry, Rosabel; Emily Mestayer, Barbara, and Effie Germon, Blossom. Robertson's comedy, "Birth," was first acted in this country March 27, and had this cast:
Earle of Eagledyffe . . . C. Fisher Adeliza Stormont . . Helen Tracy
The Duke . . . . J. C. Williamson Sara Hewitt . . . Mrs. Thos. Barry
Stanton W. J. Leonard Jack Randall . . . Lester Wallack
Paul Hewitt ... B. T. Ringgold
"The Nervous Man " was produced April i, with this cast:
Aspen John Gilbert McShane .... John Brougham
Capt. Burnish . . . C. Rockwell Vivian M. Lanagan
Lord Lounge ... B. T. Ringgold Biggs . . . . ., . E. M. Holland
Emily Flora Clayton Mrs. Clarkett .... Annie Deland
Lady Leech . . . Mrs. John Sefton
This comedy at one time was very popular, but of late years is seldom acted. Its popularity was due chiefly to that of the comedian personating McShane, the Man of Nerve, who generally was a star Irish comedian. It is associated in the memory of the old playgoer with the names of Tyrone Power, Leonard, John Collins, Hudson, and John Drew. When these artists played in it, the part of Aspen, the Nervous Man, was secondary, and I be- lieve it was reserved for Wm. Rufus Blake to make it the one of primary importance, in spite of the talent of Mr. Brougham, who played McShane.
Foote's comedy, "The Liar," was first seen here April 13 and had this cast :
Sir James . . Papillion . . Miss Grantham Miss Godfrey .
This was followed
Old Wilding .... John Gilbert Young Wilding . . Lester Wallack William J. F. Quigley
Owen Marlowe
J. C. Williamson
Clara Jennings
Emily Mestayer
by "His Last Legs," with John Brougham as
O'Callaghan. W. S. Gilbert's "Randall's Thumb," was first seen here May 8, and thus cast :
Scantlebury .... John Gilbert
Randall Chas. Fisher
Flamboys .... Owen Marlowe Joe Bangles ... J. H. Stoddart Mrs. Flamboys . . . Effie Germon
Superintendent . Edith Temple Miss Scantlebury Reginald . . . Miss Spin . . .
W. J. Leonard
Clara Jennings
Mrs. John Sefton
B. T. Ringgold
Emily Mestayer
2/6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSri
Brougham's "Playing with Fire" was produced May 22, and had this cast :
Herbert Waverly . . . C. Rockwell Doctor Savage . . John Brougham Mrs. Waverly . . . Mrs. Thos. Barry Mrs. Doctor Savage . . Effie Germon
Uncle Timothy . . . John Gilbert
Pinchback J. H. Stoddart
Widow Mrs. John Sefton
Perkins Miss Blaisdell
' Rosedale " was revived May 29, and thus cast :
Elliott Gray . Miles McKenna Bunberry Cobb Mathew Leigh Cavendish May Sir Arthur . . Romany . . Farmer Green Corporal Daw .
Lester Wallack
John Gilbert
. J. H. Stoddart
B. T. Ringgold
C. H. Rockwell . Nellie Kurd • J- F. Quigley . W. J. Leonard . E. M. Holland
Tabitha Stork Sarah Sykes Lady Adelia Primrose . Docksey . Robert . . Rosa Leigh Lady Mary Mother Mix
Emily Mestayer Mrs. John Sefton Annie D eland Miss Benton . . . Peck . . Danvers EiEe Germon Clara Jennings Miss Blaisdell
"The Long Strike" commenced the summer season June 21, with Mr. Stoddart as Moneypenny and Effie Germon as Jane Lea- royd. " Elfie, or the Cherry Tree Inn " was first seen here July 10, and had this cast :
Aircastle (first appear- ance here) . . . .C. Wheatleigh Ledley Deepcar . . . C. Rockwell Bob Evans (first appear- ance here) Teesdale
Warkinshaw .... W. J. Leonard
Elfie Effie Germon
Rose Aircastle . . . Lizzie Price
Filey B. T. Ringgold
Sadlove J. H. Stoddart
Joe Chirrup C. Fisher
Shelby Quigley
Parker J. Peck
Pemberton Jones
Blacksmith Princeps
Aug. 14 witnessed the first appearance at this house of the Lydia Thompson burlesque company, consisting of Hetty Tracy, Camille Dubois, Carlotta Zerbini, Tilly Earl, Lotta Mira, Kate Egerton, Kate Heathcote, Nellie Cooke, Harry Beckett, Willie Edouin, H. Montgomery, John Edouin, John Bryer, and Lydia Thompson. Michael Connolly was the musical director. Sept. 11" The Princess of Trezibonde " was produced, and was followed by "Bluebeard," Sept. 18, for Lydia Thompson's benefit. "Lur- line, or the Knight and the Naiads " and " A Day in Paris " were acted Sept. 22. The same bill was repeated Sept. 23, when the season closed.
The next regular season opened Sept. 30, 1871. The company consisted of Charles Mathews, Lester Wallack, John Brougham, Chas. Fisher, J. B. Polk, John Gilbert, J. H. Stoddart, W. H. Montgomery, Chas. Rockwell, W. J. Leonard, J. Peck, J. Curran, B. T. Ringgold, Geo. F. Browne, E. M. Holland, J. F. Quigley, Plessy Mordaunt, Clara Jennings, Emily Mestayer, Helen Tracy, Effie Germon, Mrs. John Sefton, Mary Lenoyle, Estelle Rowe,
I87i]
WALLACK'S THEATRE
277
Blanche Hayden, Flora Clayton, Miss L. McCormick, and Miss Langdon. John Gilbert was acting manager, and James Schonberg stage director. " The Rivals " was the initial performance.
Sir Anthony Bob Acres David . Fag . . Thomas . Sir Lucius
. . John Gilbert . . J. H. Stoddart W. H. Montgomery . E. M. Holland W. J. Leonard . John Brougham
Mrs. Malaprop . . Emily Mestayer Lydia Languish . . . Clara Jennings Captain Absolute ... J. B. Polk Faulkland .... B. T. Ringgold
Julia Helen Tracy
Lucy Estelle Rowe
Oct. 3 "The Heir at Law" was played, and Oct. 4, "The Serious Family." Miss Plessy Mordaunt, leading lady, made her American d6but Oct. 9 as Mrs. Oakley, in "The Jealous Wife." Charles Mathews' first appearance in this theatre oc- curred Oct. 16 in "A Curious Case," the cast of which was: Twiggleton, Chas. Mathews; Mr. Aubrey, Chas. Fisher; Charles Stanton, Charles Rockwell; Edward, E. M. Holland; and Mrs. Aubrey, Clara Jennings. "A Game of Speculation," by Chas. Mathews, was also played, with Mathews as Affable Hawk. " Ag- gravating Sam" and "The Nervous Man" were seen Oct. 23. "The Busybody" was given Oct. 30 for the first time in many years, and had this cast:
Marplot Chas. Mathews Miranda .... Plessy Mordaunt
Sir Jealous Troffick . John Brougham Sir George J. B. Polk
Sir Francis Gripe . . John Gilbert Charles B. T. Ringgold
Isabinda (her first appearance Whisker .... E. M. Holland
at this theatre) . Henrietta Osborne Patch Effie Germon
Nov. I a matinee performance took place for the benefit of those suffering from the Chicago fire. " The Lady of Lyons " was acted, and thus cast :
Claude Melnotte . Mme. Deschapelles Widow Melnotte . M. Deschapelles . Col. Damas . .
. Chas. Fechter
Mrs. John Sefton
Mme. Ponisi
. W. J. Leonard
John Gilbert
Pauline Lizzie Price
Beauseant C. Rockwell
Glavis B. T. Ringgold
Gaspard . . . W. H. Montgomery Landlord .... Geo. F. Browne
"The Critic, or A Tragedy Rehearsed" was presented Nov. 6, and thus cast :
Sir Fretful and Puff . Chas. Mathews
Tilburina Effie Germon
Confidante .... Mrs. John Sefton
Sneer C. Rockwell
Sir Christopher . W. H. Montgomery
Earl of Leicester Mrs. Dangle . Dangle . . . Governor . . Beefeater . .
. . W. B. Polk . Miss Blaisdell B. T. Ringgold Geo. F. Browne E. M. Holland
"A Nice Firm" was acted Nov. 7 and continued throughout the week. "Rosedale" was revived Nov. 13, with Mme. Ponisi as Tabitha Stork, and Isidore Cameron as Lady Adela Gray, and
278 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 1:1872
her first appearance at this house. " John Garth, " by John Brougham, founded on T. W. Robertson's novel, "True to Herself, "was acted for the first time Dec. 12, and had this cast:
Gregory Deerham Hester Deerham . Minnie Garth . . Mere Charmarante, John Garth . . .
, . John Gilbert
, Plessy Mordaunt
Clara Jennings
Mrs. John Sefton
Lester Wallack
Maria . . Paulo . . Bartholomew Owen . .
Lillie McCormack . . . C. Fisher . . . J. B. Polk . E. M. Holland
During the first week of January, 1872, John Gilbert had an attack of the gout, and his r61e was played by John Brougham. In a few days Brougham was similarly attacked, and the r61e was taken by Chas. Rockwell. This play was taken off on Feb. 12 and after a long and elaborate preparation Lester Wallack' s drama, in six tableaux, entitled "The Veteran," was revived for the first time in thirteen years. It was thus cast :
Eugene Leslie J. B. Polk
Capt. Belmont Jenson
Lieut. Morton Thomas
Lieut. Lorimer Barton
Sergt. Simpson Peck
Seyd Arnold
Osman James
Ogion W. J. Leonard
Mustapha Geo. Browne
Zaida Miss Burroughs
Leon Delmar . . . Lester Wallack The Emir Mohammed . . C. Fisher Col. Delmar .... John Gilbert
Blanche Effie Germon
Mrs. McShake . . . Mme. Ponisi
Amineh Clara Jennings
The Sultan C. Rockwell
Off-an-Agan .... J. Brougham
Hassan E. M. Holland
Gulnare Helen Tracy
Bison . . . Master Geo. Goodwin
Sir Harcourt .... John Gilbert
Dazzle Chas. Mathews
Spanker J. B. Polk
Mark Meddle . . . . J. H. Stoddart Lady Gay .... Plessy Mordaunt
Charles Mathews reappeared April 18 in "London Assurance:"
Grace Helen Tracy
Max John Brougham
Charles Lester Wallack
Cool E. M. Holland
Pert Mrs. John Sefton
May 8 a matinee benefit was given in aid of the Homoeopathic Surgical Hospital fund; Fanny Foster made her first appearance on any stage May 9 as Grace Harkaway. " London Assurance " was kept on the boards to large audiences until May 27, when "Home" and "The Critic" were acted. For his farewell benefit Charles Mathews presented " The Captain of the Watch " and "Not Such a Fool as He Looks." He acted Simple Simon in the latter play. This closed the season.
The manner in which Charles Mathews was engaged to play in the regular company is worthy of mention. While acting at Daly's Fifth Avenue Theatre he came to Wallack and said : " I want an appearance at your theatre." " But you know we never star people at our house," replied Mr. Wallack. "I don't care; I want to appear, and I atn willing to go in your regular company. Make
1872]
WALLACK'S THEATRE
279
me an offer," persisted Mathews. "Oh, I can't do that," said Wallack. " How much do you want ? " " I will leave it entirely to you," replied Mathews, and subsequently it was arranged that he should be paid a salary of ^500 a week. This salary was paid him a number of weeks before it was possible to give him an ap- pearance. It is memorable that in " London Assurance, " he, Lester Wallack, and John Gilbert appeared together on one stage.
June 3 a summer season was opened with "The Long Strike," J. H. Stoddart as Moneypenny, Welsh Edwards as Crankshaw, and Efifie Germon as Jane Learoyd. Watts Phillips' "On the Jury" was first seen here June 17, and had this cast:
Dexter Sanderson . . . Brougham Robert Sanderson . . . Ringgold Edith (first appearance here)
Ella Burns Miss Nippingale . . Mrs. John Sefton Miss Winch (first appearance at this theatre) . . . Carrie Martin
Rosa (first appearance here)
Frankie McClellan Tibbetts .... Charles -Fisher
Prof. Schmidt Stoddart
Curlett Rockwell
Waterman Holland
Tilda Effie Germon
"The Last Trump Card" had its first hearing here July i, and with this cast :
Vicompte De Noirmount . C. Fisher Sir Slingsby Sorrell, W. H. Montgomery Lady Sorrell . . . Mrs. John Sefton Alice Walsingham . . . Ella Burns Cecillia Thornton . Mrs. Thos. Barry Cecil Seagift ... B. T. Ringgold
Rebecca Beak . . . Eflie Germon Jabez Jubal . . . . J. H. Stoddart
Sykes C. Rockwell
Chickweed . . . . E. M. Holland
Hopper W. J. Leonard
Martha Miss Blaisdell
"The Long Strike" July 15, 1872, and continued throughout the week. A summer season commenced July 22 with the Lydia Thompson burlesque company, consisting of Harry Beckett, Willie Edouin, Eliza Weathersby, Amy Sheridan, Louise Beverly, Camille Dubois, Tilly Earle, Harriet Courtney, Pauline Leslie, Mrs. Brier, Fanny Leslie, and Lydia Thompson. Michael Con- nolly was musical director. " Robin Hood " was the opening bur- lesque. " Ixion " was revived Sept. 2, with the first appearance of Rose Coghlan as Jupiter. The comedietta, "A Happy Pair," pre- ceded the burlesque, in which Rose Coghlan made her American ddbut, acting Mrs. Honeyton, with Edmund Leathes as Mr. Honeyton. "Kenilworth" was done Sept. 21, and the season closed Sept. 28.
The regular season of 1872-73 opened Oct. i. The company was: Geo. Boniface, J. H. Stoddart, J. B. Polk, E. M. Holland, Geo. F. Browne, Katharine Rogers, Edith Challis, Mrs. Fanny Foster, Mme. Ponisi, E. A. Sothern, W. J. Leonard, J. Peck, John W. Carroll, C. E. Edwin, Rose Coghlan, Miss Blaisdell, Miss McCormack, John Gilbert, Efifie Germon, Mrs. John Sefton, Thomas Baker, musical director, John Gilbert, acting manager, James
28o A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D873
Schonberg, stage director, J. S. Wright, prompter, and Theo. Moss, treasurer. W. S. Gilbert's "Pygmalion and Galatea," given for the first time in America, was the opening bill, and had this cast:
Pygmalion (first appearance
at this theatre) . . . G. Boniface Galatea (first appearance
in this city) . . Katharine Rogers Cynisca (first appearance at
this theatre) . . . Edith Challis
Chrysos J. H. Stoddart
Myrine Fanny Foster
Leucippe J. B. Polk
Agensimos . . . . E. M. Holland
Mimos Geo. F. Browne
Dophine Mme. Ponisi
This was not Katharine Rogers' d6but in America, as she had appeared at Philadelphia as Georgina, in "Our American Cousin," Sept. 2, 1872, at the Walnut Street Theatre, in E. A. Sothern's company. Max Maretzek commenced a series of concerts Sunday evening, Nov. 3. "Pygmalion and Galatea" was played until Nov. II, when E. A. Sothern appeared in "Our American Cousin," which had this cast:
Lord Dundreary . Asa Trenchard . Lieut. Vernon Capt. De Boots . May Meredith Sir Edward Trenchard Florence Trenchard
. . Sothern . J. B. Polk
E. M. Holland . . J. Peck Rose Coghlan
W. J. Leonard Fanny Foster
Mrs. Montchessington . Mme. Ponisi
Coyle John W. Carroll
Abel Murcott . . . . J. H. Stoddart
Binney Geo. F. Browne
Buddicombe .... C. E. Edwin Georgina .... Katharine Rogers
Dec. 21 "Brother Sam " was produced:
Hon. Sam Slingsby .... Sothern Jonathan Rumbelow . John Gilbert Trimbush J. B. Polk
Mrs. Trimbush Alice . . .
EfBe Germon Rose Coghlan
"David Garrick " was seen Feb. 8, 1873 :
Ada Ingot . . . Katharine Rogers Araminta Brown . . . Mrs. Sefton
David Garrick Sothern
Mrs. Smith .... Mme. Ponisi
Simon Ingot .... John Gilbert Squire Chivey .... J. B. Polk
Smith Geo. F. Browne
Jones E. M. Holland
April 3 " David Garrick " and " Dundreary Married and Settled " were presented. The latter play had this cast :
Lord Dundreary .... Sothern D. R. Boots . . . . E. M. Holland
Buggins G. F. Browne
Abel Murcott (first appear- ance here) .... C. B. Bishop
Sir Edward . . Lady Dundreary- Lady Trenchard Asa Trenchard .
J. W. Carroll
Rose Coghlan
Mme. Ponisi
. J. B. Polk
" David Garrick " was acted for the eighty-fifth time (matinee) May 3. At night "The Squire's Last Shilling" was first played, and with this cast :
1873]
WALLACK'S THEATRE
281
Charles Chuckles . . E. A. Sothern Roderick Gresham ... J. B. Polk Jabez Grindrod . . . . C. B. Bishop Farnier Hodges . . G. F. Browne Malvina (first appearance here) .... Imogene Vandyke
Rachel Grindrod . Katharine Rogers
David Brandon J- Carroll
Clinch E. M. Holland
Polly Greville . . . EflSe Germon Lady Logwood .... Mme. Ponisi
After May 2 1 there was a constant change of bill, as follows : May 22, "Our American Cousin," which had eight performances; May 29, "Brother Sam" and " Dundreary Married and Settled," four times, and Sothern closed his engagement May 31. "Mora, or the Golden Fetters, " by Boucicault, was acted June 3 for the first time on any stage, and had this cast :
Mora Katharine Rogers
Paul Schuyler Allerton
Bella Guppy .... Efiie Germon Judge Cutts .... O. S. Fawcett Philo Guppy (d^but here), A. D. Bradley Ex-Judge Conover . . . W. H. Pope
Chancey Sickfold . . Milnes Levick Larry Suydam ... G. H. Griiifith
Sally Miss Blaisdell
Ophelia Mary Wells
Lisha Joseph Wheelock
"Mimi," one of Boucicault's "emotional" plays, was produced for the first time early in July, and was thus cast :
Maurice Boucicault
Durosel A. D. Bradley
Max Porleson . . . . W. H. Crisp Schneider .... John Howson
Collinet B. T. Ringgold
Clicot Ed. Lamb
Mme. Darblay . . . Fanny Foster
Second Officer G. Clarke
Mimi Katharine Rogers
Rigolette Effie Germon
Salope Miss Vandyke
Rosalie Mary Wells
This was the first appearance at this theatre of W. H. Crisp and John Howson.
The season of 1873-74 opened Sept. 15. The company was as follows: John Gilbert, W. R. Floyd, J. W. Carroll, T. E. Mills, W. J. Leonard, J. Peck, Harry Beckett, J. B. Polk, E. M. Hol- land, George Browne, C. E. Edwin, J. Curran, Mrs. John Sefton, Mme. Ponisi, Rose Coghlan, Dora Goldthwaite, Kate Bartlett, McCormack, Burroughs, Effie Germon, Blaisdell, Estelle Rowe, Everette, Jeanie Ross, Clara Bate; acting manager, John Gilbert; stage director, W. R. Floyd; prompter, J. S. Wright; treasurer, Theo. Moss; and musical director, Thomas Baker. Mr. Sothern was the star attraction, and the opening plays were "Barwise's Book" and "The Burrampooter. " Oct. 11 Salvini and his Italian company performed "Othello" at the matinee. Salvini appeared in "Francesca da Rimini" at the matinee, Oct. 18. In the even- ing " Our American Cousin " was revived, and ran until Oct. 27, when Lester Wallack made his first appearance in two years, act- ing in "She Stoops to Conquer," which gave place on Nov. 10 to
282 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1874
"Ours," in which Edward J. Arnott, from the Haymarket Theatre, London, made his American d6but, playing Lieut. Angus McAl- lister. " Ours " was withdrawn after the matinde of Nov. 22, and in the evening " The Liar " was revived, and Miss Jeffreys Lewis, who had been added to the company, made her first appearance as Miss Grantham. The comedy was preceded by " To Oblige Ben- son." On the evenings of Nov. 9, 16, and 30, concerts were given by members of the Strakosch Italian opera company.
On Dec. 8 "Home" and "Ici I'On Parle Frangais" were seen, and ran throughout that week ; Dec. 15, 19, "She Stoops to Con- quer;" Dec. 16, "Ours;" Dec. 17, "The Liar;" Dec. 18, "Home" and "Ici I'On Parle Frangais." Boucicault's new comedy of " A Man of Honor" had its first hearing Dec. 22. On Jan. 17, 1874, "The Man of Honor" was withdrawn, and Jan. 17 "Money" — with the gambling scene restored — was revived, in which John Brougham made his first appearance in two years. March 7 " The Heir at Law" was announced, for the reappearance of John Gil- bert after a long illness; but, owing to the indisposition of John Brougham, " Money " was continued, and John Gilbert acted Stout. "The Heir at Law" was produced March 9, and acted during the week. "The Rivals " was seen March 16, and ran during the week. " Central Park " was revived March 23, and ran until April 4, when at the matinee " The Veteran " was revived. John Brougham was taken ill April 11, and on that night and until April 20, when Mr. Brougham reappeared, Harry Beckett acted Off-an-Agan. " School " was produced April 30 and ran until May 22, when "The Clandestine Marriage" was revived, which gave way May 26 to " Woodcock' s Little Game " and " The Nervous Man. " These comedies were repeated May 28, 29, and matinee. May 30. " Money " was revived May 27 and repeated May 30, when the season closed.
J. L. Toole, the English comedian, made his American debut Aug. 17 in "Wig and Gown," written expressly for him by James Alberry, and a comic drama by Thomas Haynes Bayley, called " The Spitalfields Weaver. " " Wig and Gown " had this cast :
Hammond Coote . . . J. L. Toole Sorbyson Siel . . . . W. Herbert Dr. Dallet . . Q. C. H. Westland Fred Fairfoot . . . E. M. Holland Mr. Justice Jones . . H. A. Weaver Edward Albert Wellington
Coote Agnes Michell
Edward Albert Nelson
Coote .... James Strickett . . Samuel Marigold . Decimal Two-five . Hon. Miss Kenruetie Mrs. Coote . . .
Sadie Vivian
Eben Plympton
W. J. Leonard
J. F. Josephs
. Mme. Ponisi
Eliza Johnstone
The cast of " The Spitalfields Weaver " was :
Simmons J. L. Toole
Brown H. Westland
Darville Eben Plympton
James J. F. Josephs
Adele Minnie Bell
18753
WALLACE'S THEATRE
283
The performance was a lamentable failure, the peculiar talent of Mr. Toole not being appreciated by an American audience. Toole was announced as having met with " an accident " ; and four nights of his engagement were filled by Dan Bryant, who acted in " Handy Andy " and "Irish Emigrant." This was Dan Bryant's last engagement in Irish comedy.
The next season commenced Tuesday, Oct. 6, 1874, with Byron's comedy, "Partners for Life," which had this cast:
Horace Mervyn Tom Gilroy . Goppinger Fanny Smith Priscilla . . Emily . . .
. John Gilbert H. J. Montague W. J. Leonard Jeffreys Lewis . Mme. Ponisi Dora Goldthwaite
Darbyshire . Muggles . . Ernest . . . Major Billeter Sir Archibald
Kate Bartlett Harry Beckett . J. B. Polk
J. W. Carroll G. F. Browne
The company engaged] was: H. J. Montague (first appearance in America), John Gilbert, Harry Beckett, J. B. Polk, John W. Car- roll, Geo. F. Browne, W. J. Leonard, Jeffreys Lewis, Mme. Ponisi, Dora Goldthwaite, Kate Bartlett, Mrs. John Sefton, E. M. Hol- land, C. E. Edwin, J. Peck, J. F. Josephs, Thos. Atkins, Ada Dyas, Effie Germon, lone Burke, Mabel Leonard, Dion Bouci- cault, Edward Arnott, and Miss C. Bate. John Gilbert was the acting manager; W. R. Floyd, stage director; J. S. Wright, prompter; and Theo. Moss, treasurer.
"The Rivals" was revived Oct. 14, with Edward Arnott as Cap- tain Absolute. " The Romance of a Poor Young Man " was seen Oct. 21, with this cast:
Marguerite (first appear- ance at this theatre) . Ada Dyas Manuel .... H. J. Montague
Louise Mrs. John Sefton
Caspar J. W. Carroll
Alain E. M. Holland
M. Nouret . . . . G. F. Browne
Mme. Laroque Christine . . Mme. Aubrey Mile. Helouin Dr. Desmarets M. De Brevannes
Mme. Ponisi Mabel Leonard Effie Germon . lone Burke . John Gilbert . J. B. Polk
Nov. 14 Boucicault's "The Shaughraun " was played for the first time on any stage, and had this cast :
Capt. Molineux Arte O'Neale Robert Ffolliott Father Dolan Corry Kinchela Harvey Duff . Conn . . .
H. J. Montague Jeffreys Lewis . J. B. Polk . John Gilbert E. Arnott . H. Beckett
Dion Boucicault
Sergt. Jones . . . . W. J. Leonard
Reilly E. M. Holland
Claire Ffolliott .... Ada Dyas Mrs. O'Kelly .... Mme. Ponisi
Moya lone Burke
Bridget Mrs. Sefton
"The Shaughraun" was withdrawn on April i, 1875, for "The Romance of a Poor Young Man ; " April 10 " Rafael " was seen for the first time. This was a new adaptation of "Les Filles de
284 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1875
Marbre " (" The Marble Heart "). " The Romance of a Poor Young Man" was revived April 17; "The Road to Ruin," with H. J. Montague as Harry Dornton, was seen April 24.
A matinee benefit was given April 29 for the Dan Bryant Benefit Fund. The following is a copy of the programme :
Mr. Honeyton . . After which —
"A HAPPY PAIR." H. J. Montague | Mrs. Honeyton
"THE RIVALS."
Sir Anthony Absolute . John Gilbert Sir Lucius O'Trigger . W. R. Floyd Capt. Absolute .... E. Arnott
Bob Acres H. Beckett
Faulkland J. W. Carroll
David . . . Lydia Languish Mrs. Malaprop Julia .... Lucy ....
Ada Dyas
. E. M. Holland . . Jeffreys Lewis . . Mme. Ponisi Dora Goldthwaite . . Kate Bartlett
The following is the Treasurer's report of the several benefits and donations in behalf of the family of the late Dan Bryant :
RECEIVED FROM MANAGERS,
|
Wallack's Theatre . |
. $1,305.50 |
|
Union Sq. Theatre . |
1,088.50 |
|
Booth's Theatre . . |
926.00 |
|
Theatre Comique |
. . 801.75 |
|
Olympic Theatre |
335-25 |
|
Lyceum Theatre . . |
263.50 |
Park Theatre .... Bowery Opera House . San Francisco Minstrels Academy of Music . .
FROM BENEFIT GIVEN AT Chicago, under auspices of Danl. O'Hara, City Treasurer FROM SALE OF PICTURE Donated by Lysander Thompson, Jr
DONATIONS.
W. J. Florence . Thos. J. Creamer Dion Boucicault A. Oakey Hall J. J. O'Donohue J. T. Raymond L. L. L. . .
Arthur Cheney (Globe Theatre, Boston) . Wright Sanford . . Miss Neilson . . . H. J. Montague . . Richard O'Gorman . J. Murphy, Comedian J. L. Toole . . .
$250.00 200.00 150.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
100.00 100.00 100.00 50.00 50.00 50.00 50.00
Geo. A. Dickerson . Dan's friend " M." . Miller, Morrison & Co. Dominick Murray . " Mark Twain " . . George Loveday - . George Tyson . . W. A. Seaver . . . Dan Shelby, Buffalo Anonymous, by Mr. H. J. Montague . Count Joannes . . A Friend ....
$148.50 44.80 71.00
1,918.50
$6,903.30 $652.00 $128.00
$50.00 50.00 30.00 30.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00
25.00
10.00
1. 00
$1,821.00
1875]
WALLACK'S THEATRE
285
NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, BY MR. M. MITCHELL.
W. R. Travers $100.00
C. J. Osborn George George S. V. White . H. A. Patterson M. S. Prentiss
50.00 50.00 25.00 25.00 25.00
W. S. Neilson $25.00
C. F. Woerishoffer .... 25.00 Soutter & Co z5-oo
NEW YORK SUN, BY C. A. DANA.
George Wilkes $100.00
Harry Hill 100.00
Samuel Wilkeson .... 20.00
NEW YORK TIMES,
G. VandenhofE $25.00
L. J. Jennings 25.00
Mrs. J. H. Dykers .... 10.00
G. C. Martin 10.00
M. T. P 5-00
A Friend Plus . .
BY L. J. JENNINGS. F. Navarro . . .
Jos. " F." F. C.
Winkle
$350.00
$9.00 1. 00
$230.00
$5.00 5.00 5.00
From sale of boxes $168.84
From sale of general admission tickets 4^1 5-95
From J. C. Williamson, comedian, Australia 56.00
From John McCuUough, proceeds of benefit given at California
Theatre San Francisco, Cal 948.90
Grand total $16,163.99
New York, July 21, 1875.
This is to certify that Messrs. Josh Hart, W. R. Floyd, and A. M. Palmer have this day paid to me, as trustee for myself and Marie Bryant, Jeremiah Bryant, Daniel Bryant, and Teresa Bryant, the children of the late Daniel Bryant, sixteen thousand one hundred and sixty-three 99-100 dollars, being the proceeds realized and received by the said Josh Hart, W. R. Floyd, and A. M. Palmer, as the com- mittee of the associated managers of the City of New York, from individual dona- tions, and from the performances given by the theatres of New York, Chicago, and San Francisco, for the benefit of myself and children.
$16,163.99 ^^^- ^^^ Bryant.
Witness: Fred A. Lovecraft.
" A Happy Pair " and " The Rivals " were played May 8 ; " The Irish Heiress," May 12, matinee, May 22, and the rest of the week. The season closed May 29, when " The Lady of Lyons " was given :
Claude Melnotte . Mons. Deschapelles Mme. Deschapelles Widow Melnotte . Col. Damas
H. J. Montague
. J. W. Carroll
. Mme. Ponisi
Mrs. John Sefton
John Gilbert
Glavis J. B. Polk
Beauseant E. Plympton
Pauline Ada Dyas
Gaspard
Landlord .
Major . . Capt. Dupont
Gervais . .
Notary . .
Jeannette .
Marian . .
C. E. Edwin G. F. Browne J. F. Josephs . . J. Peck . T, Atkins G. Comstock . Clara Bate Miss J. Francis
286 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE DSrs
A summer season began May 31 by Harrigan and Hart, in "The Donovans," with the following company: W. E. Sheridan, Welsh Edwards, J. W. Jennings, Geo. L. Stout, John W. Norton, Walter Eytinge, C. E. Edwin, J. Curran, Mme. Ponisi, Bessie Vivian, W. J. Leonard, J. Peck, E. M. Holland, J. F. Josephs, Ada Monk (first appearance at this theatre), and Alice Clayton. The Peak Family of Bellringers, Charles and Carrie Austin, the "Zoua^e Drill" artists, Nellie St. John, balladist, and Baby Bindley appeared in the play.
The next regular season commenced Oct. 5, 1875, with this company : H. J. Montague, Harry Beckett, Chas. Stevenson, Wm. Herbert, Harry Gwynette, W. J. Leonard, Geo. C. Jordan, Jr., J. Peck, John Gilbert, W. R. Floyd, E. M. Holland, J. W. Shannon, Chas. Rosene, C. E. Edwin, T. Atkins, J. F. Josephs, EfEe Ger- mon, Mrs. John Sefton, Nina Varian, Miss C. Blaisdell, Miss Foster, Miss C. Bate, Kate Bartlett, Geraldine Maya, lone Burke, Mme. Ponisi, and Ada Dyas. Thomas Baker was musical con- ductor; John Gilbert, acting manager; W. R. Floyd, stage di- rector; J. S. Wright, prompter; and Theo. Moss, treasurer. " The Overland Route " was the opening play, and had this cast :
Tom Dexter . Solomon Frazer Lovibond . . Moleskin . . Capt. Smart Mrs. Lovibond Mrs. Colepepper Miss Grimwood
H. J. Montague . John Gilbert . Harry Beckett E. M. Holland . H. Gwynette . Effie Germon Geraldine Maye . Kate Bartlett
Colepepper Major McTurk Capt. Clavering Hardistry . . Tottle . . . Mrs. Seabright Mrs. Rabbits .
. . W. Herbert J. W. Shannon . . C. Rosene Geo. Jordan, Jr. . W. J. Leonard . . Ada Dyas Miss C. Blaisdell
This was the first appearance at this theatre of J. W. Shannon, C. Rosene, Harry Gwynette, Geo. C. Jordan, Jr., and Geraldine Maye's first appearance on any stage. " Caste " was played Nov. 8, with the first appearance in New York of George Honey, in his original character of Eccles :
George D'Alroy . . H. J. Montague Capt. Hawtree . . C. A. Stevenson Sam Gerridge . . E. M. Holland Eccles Geo. Honey
Dixon . . . Esther Eccles Polly Eccles . The Marquise
J. F. Josephs
. Ada Dyas
Effie Germon
Mme. Ponisi
Dec. 9 " Bosom Friends, " adapted by Horace Wigan from Sardou's "Nos Intimes," was given, with this cast:
Doctor Bland ... H. J. Montague
Yielding John Gilbert
Donoghue Harry Beckett
Union Edward Arnott
Mrs. Meanley . . . Mme. Ponisi Amy Geraldine Maye
Gimp Miss Thornton
Frederick . . . . C. A. Stevenson
Meanley W. Herbert
Barravell E. M. Holland
Mrs. Union Ada Dyas
I876J
WALLACK'S THEATRE
287
"Caste" was repeated Dec. 31: 1876, and had this cast:
"Home" was revived Jan. 3,
Col. John White . . Lester Wallack Capt. MountrafEe . . J. W. Carroll
Dorrison John Gilbert
Dora Kate Bartlett
Bertie Willie Seymour
Mrs. Pinchbeck .... Ada Dyas Lucy Geraldine Maya
This was Lester Wallack's first appearance in two years. " A Quiet Family" was also acted on this occasion. Byron's comedy, "Married in Haste," was first seen in this city Jan. 12, and had this cast:
Gibson Greene . . Lester Wallack Percy Pendragon . . . John Gilbert Augustus Vera . . C. A. Stevenson Josiah Grainger . . J. W. Shannon Mrs. Grainger (first appear- ance at this theatre) . . Rose Lisle
Ethel Ada Dyas
Rackstraw W. Herbert
Pritchard .... Ethel Thornton
Baffles J. W. Carroll
Munchance . . . . G. F. Browne
Feb. 7 " John Garth " was revived, with Alex. Fitzgerald as Paulo Barretti and Nina Varian as Minnie Garth, their first ap- pearance at this theatre. "She Stoops to Conquer," Feb. 21; March 3, " Caste ; " matinde, March 4, " The Romance of a Poor Young Man;" March 13, "The Wonder;" March 28, "The Cap- tain of the Watch" and "Woodcock's Little Game," matinee and evening ; April g, " Tears, Idle Tears, " with H. J. Montague in his original character of Wilfred Cumberledge. A new comedy drama by A. C. Wheeler and J. Steele Mackaye, entitled "Twins," was produced April 12, and had this cast:
Chester Delafield / Mark Delafield S Magnus Rounse . Hubert Vince . . Doctor Puddiphat Victoria Golden .
Lester Wallack
. John Gilbert C. A. Stevenson . . W. Herbert . Effie Germon
May Delafield Mrs. Amiable Richard Wylde Wolfe . . . Mrs. Delafield Mrs. Clift . .
Geraldine Maye Miss C. Blaisdell . W. R. Floyd . E. M. Holland . . Ada Dyas Mrs. John Sefton
" London Assurance " was given April 26 :
Charles (first time) Dazzle .... Sir Harcourt . . Mark Meddle . . Dolly Spanker
H. J. Montague
Lester Wallack
John Gilbert
. Harry Beckett
. W. R. Floyd
Lady Gay Ada Dyas
Pert Effie Germon
Max J. W. Shannon
Cool E. M. Holland
Grace lone Burke
May 16 "How She Loves Him" was revived, and the season closed May 27. Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Florence began a summer term May 29 with "The Mighty Dollar," which had this cast:
288 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1877
Roland Vance . . . Frank Weston Lord Clairngorm . . W. J. Ferguson Washington Skidmore, E. M. Holland Senator Hogwhistle . G. C. Sherman Bardwell Slote . . W. J. Florence Charley Brood . . . W. R. Floyd
Arthur J. W. Carroll
Tom Dart .... J. W. Shannon
Geo. Saville . . . W. A. Whitecar
Libby Josephine Baker
Laura Ethel Thornton
Lafayette C. E. Edwin
Tarquinious . . . . C. Townsend Mrs. Gilflory .... Mrs. Florence
Clara Dart May Howard
Blanche lone Burke
The season closed Sept. 30, when "The Mighty Dollar" was acted for the one hundred and eighteenth time at this theatre, and the two hundred and twenty-second time in this city.
On Oct. 3, 1876, the next regular season opened with Harry Beckett, H. J. Montague, Ed. Arnott, Wm. Herbert, Joseph Shannon (right name Sendlebeck), Walter Eytinge, C. E. Edwin, T. Wilson, J. Peck, W. J. Leonard, C. A. Stevenson, John Gil- bert, Dion Boucicault, E. M. Holland, Ada Dyas, Rose Wood, Mme. Ponisi, Josephine Baker, Mrs. John Sefton, Miss Blaisdell, Effie Germon, Clara Bate, Ethel Thornton, and Florence Villiers. "Forbidden Fruit" was the initial performance, and was thus cast:
Sergeant Buster Cato Dove Capt. Derringer Dodd. . . . Swalbach . . Victor . . .
. Harry Beckett H. J. Montague . . E. Arnott . W. Herbert J. W. Shannon W. Eytinge
Joseph . . . Mrs. Cato Dove Mrs. Buster . Zulu .... Julia Cripps .
C. E. Edwin . Ada Dyas Mme. Ponisi Effie Germon Miss Blaisdell
Nov. g " The Shaughraun " was revived, with Boucicault as Conn, Montague as Molineax, Rose Wood as Arte O'Neale, and Josephine Baker as Moya. A benefit for the Brooklyn Theatre fire sufferers was given Dec. 21, when "Caste" was^ acted, and also "Forty and Fifty." Jan. 8, 1877, "Forbidden Fruit" was revived; Palgrave Simpson and Herman Merivale's drama, "All For Her," was produced Jan. 22, and.had this cast:
Richard Radford (first appearance at this theatre) . Steele Mackaye
Hugh Trevor Capt. Mervale Alice . . Mary Rivers
Lester Wallack
. George Clarke
. . Ada Dyas
Rose Wood
Geystone .... Mrs. John Sefton
Col. Darner E. Arnott
Maurice C. A. Stevenson
Laurence .... E. M. Holland
Donald C. E. Edwin
Edgar J. W. Shannon
Feb. 7 "A Morning Call" and "Married Life" were seen, and Feb. 12 "Wild Oats" was played, with this cast:
Sir George Thunder Ephraim Smooth Harry Thunder . Jennie Gammon . Rover .... John Dory . . Tim
John Gilbert
. Harry Beckett
C. A. Stevenson
. Effie Germon
Lester Wallack
Edward Arnott
E. M. Holland
Farmer J. W. Shannon
Banks W. J. Leonard
Lamp C. E. Edwin
Trap James Curran
Lady Amaranth . . . Rose Wood Amelia Mrs. John Sefton
I877D
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" She Stoops to Conquer " was given Feb. 26 ; March 6, " The Rivals;" "My Awful Dad" had its first American presentation March 10, and was thus cast :
Adonis Evergreen . Lester Wallack Mrs. Biggs
Dick Evergreen . . . Harry Beckett Evangeline
Baron Kotcliberg . J. W. Shannon Matilda . .
Humphrey E. M. Holland Emma . .
Dibs C. Edwin Charlotte .
Cruets W. J. Leonard
In consequence of the indisposition of Lester Wallack, "The Rivals " was revived the second week in April. " Rosedale " was revived May 14, and had this cast :
Mrs. John Sefton
Ethel Thornton
Rose Wood
Josephine Baker
. . Clara Bate
Miles McKenna . Bunberry Cobb . Mathew Leigh Col. Cavendish May Farmer Green Lady Adela . . Corporal Daw Romany Robb Robert ....
John Gilbert
Harry Beckett
Edward Arnott
Cyril Searle
W. J. Leonard
Florence Villiers
W. Eytinge
C. Edwin
. T. Atkins
Doxy . . . Sir Arthur . . Lady Florence Rosa Leigh Tabitha Stork Sarah Sykes . Mother Mix . Primrose . . Elliot Grey
... J. Peck
AUie Dorrington
Ada Dyas
Effie Germon
Mrs. Farren
Mrs. J. Sefton
Miss Blaisdell
. Miss Bate
Lester Wallack
Ada Dyas took a benefit June 7, when "A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing" was acted, with this cast:
Jasper Carew Dame Carew Sybil . .
. H. J. Montague Mrs. G. H. Gilbert . AUie Dorrington
Kester Chedzoy . . . . W. Herbert
Ann Carew Ada Dyas
Keziah Effie Germon
This was followed by a recitation of "The Bridge of Sighs," by Jeffreys Lewis; and the quarrel scene from "The School for Scandal," John Gilbert as Sir Peter Teazle and Fanny Davenport as Lady Teazle.
The fourth act of " Love's Sacrifice " was next given by Marie Wainwright and Frederick B. Warde, and the performance closed, with the fourth act of "The Lady of Lyons," George Rignold as Claude and Ada Dyas as Pauline. A summer season commenced June II with Lettie Allen, in a drama called "Waves," which had this cast :
Arthur Leslie . Hubert Leslie Leonard Gordon Garner . . . Caroline Shirley Mrs. Brightless Kittie Brightless Alphonso Howard
J. B. Atwater
Cyril Searle
W. Eytinge
W. J. Leonard
Effie Germon
Mrs. A. F. Baker
Blanche Galton
. W. R. Floyd
Capt. Walton . Jerry Timpkins Sidney Morton Edna Gordon . Mrs. Leslie Mrs. Stacey . Mrs. Warren .
Theo. Hamilton
. Thos. WhifEen
Lewis Baker
Lettie Allen
Mme. Ponisi
Marion P. Clifton
Ethel Thornton
This was the first appearance here of Thomas Whiffen, Mrs. Alexina Fisher Baker, and Blanche Galton (Mrs. Thomas Whif- fen), also the New York debut of Marion P. Clifton.
VOL. II. — 19
290 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D877
June 28 Henry Morford's play, " Crabbed Age " was given, and introduced for the first time at this theatre May Roberts and May Gallagher, who acted Mme. Dumonlin and Juliette. July 2, Philip Stoner's drama, "Woodleigh," introducing for the first time at this theatre Marie Bates, who acted Abigail Wildron. For J. B. Atwater's benefit, July 20, "The Stranger" was played, with Atwater as the Stranger, Lettie Allen as Mrs. Haller, Mary Davenport as Countess Wintersen, and E. B. Holmes as Solomon. Aug. 20 the Lydia Thompson company appeared in "Bluebeard," with this cast :
Selim Lydia Thompson
Bluebeard Fred Marshall
Abrahim Horatio Saker
Fatima Alice Burville
O'Shacabac .... Ella Chapman Corporal Zoug Zoug . Willie Edouin
Hassan Marie Williams
Sister Anne .... Lina Merville
Fez Emily Duncan
Zaid Kate Everleigh
Beda Marion Elmore
Reece and Farnie's burlesque of "Oxygen" was seen Aug. 27:
Prince Fritz Van Fricasse Gretchen . Nilclause . Franz . . Van Blazen Hermance
Lydia Thompson . Fred Marshall . Marion Elmore . Wm. Forrester . Willie Edouin . Kate Everleigh . Alice Atherton
Hanserl Emily Duncan
Otto Marie Williams
Dr. Ox Horatio Saker
Tarantula Ella Chapman
Suzel Alice Burville
Lotchen Lina Merville
Alexander Henderson, husband of Lydia Thompson, and man- ager of this company, died at Cannes, France, Feb. i, 1886. Sept 12, "Robinson Crusoe," with Lydia Thompson in the title r61e. The next regular season opened Oct. i, 1877, with Bouci- cault's play "Marriage," which had this cast:
Silas Auldjo .... John Gilbert Walter Auldjo . . Eben Plympton Constant Tiffe . . . Edward Arnott Mrs. Constant Tiffe . Rose Coghlan Mrs. Tarbox .... Mme. Ponisi
Fannie Stella Boniface
Archibald .... H. J. Montague
Persimmons H. Beckett
Virginia Effie Germon
Mudgeon E. M. Holland
Josephine Meta Bartlett
Rosalie Pearl Eytinge
Miss SnifEe . . . Mrs. John Sefton Celia Miss Thornton
A matinee benefit was given Nov. 8 for the Custer Monument fund, when "Jane Eyre" was acted with this cast:
Judith J. L. Carhart
Rochester .... McKee Rankin Mrs. Reed .... Jenny Carroll Lady Clarens Emily Rigl
Grace Miss Watson
Adele Grade Wade
Bessie Emily Lewis
Jane Eyre (first time) . Clara Morris
Frank Marshall's comedy drama, "False Shame," was first seen here Nov. 12, and had this cast:
1878]
WALLACK'S THEATRE
291
Earl of Dashington Hon. Chas. Ewart Arthur .... Ernest Bragleigh Col. Howard . . Lieut. Gray . .
J. W. Shannon
C. E. Edwin
H. J. Montague
. . E. Arnott
. John Gilbert
W. A. Eytinge
Mary . . Philip . . Magdalen . Mrs. Howard Constance .
. Meta Bartlett
E. M. Holland
. Rose Coghlan
. Mme. Ponisi
Stella Boniface
" Won at Last, " by Steele Mackaye, was first played here Dec. 10, when Gabrielle du Sauld made her first appearance at this theatre. It was thus cast :
John Fleming . . Major Bunker Sophie Bunker . Baron Von Spiegel Prof. Tracy . . Dr. Sterling . .
. H. J. Montague . . E. M. Holland Gabrielle du Sauld J. W. Shannon . . John Gilbert . . W. R. Floyd
Will Eben Plympton
Mrs. Tracy .... Mme. Ponisi
Mandle W. A. Eytinge
Driscol G. F. Browne
Grace Rose Coghlan
Flora Mrs. John Sefton
Lester Wallack's first appearance this season was Jan. 14, 1878, as Adonis Evergreen in "My Awful Dad." "School" was acted Jan. 25, and continued for two weeks. For John Brougham's benefit (matin6e Feb. 14). "A Sheep in Wolf's Clothing," the third act of "School," and "Kerry" were given. In the latter play Katharine Rogers acted Blanche Desmond; George Clarke, Captain Desmond; and Dion Boucicault, Kerry. "Money" was revived Feb. 18, when John Brougham made his first appearance here in four years, acting Benjamin Stout; Lester Wallack as Alfred Evelyn; H. J. Montague, Capt. Dudley Smooth, and John Gilbert (for the first time in this city). Sir John Vesey. "London Assurance" was done March 18. "Diplomacy" had this cast for its first production April i :
Henry Beauclercq . Lester Wallack Julian Beauclercq . H. J. Montague Countess Zicka . . . Rose Coghlan Lady Fairfax (first appearance
at this theatre) . . Sara Stevens Dora (first appearance at this
theatre) Maud Granger
OrlofF . .
Marquise .
Algie . . Baron Stein
Craven . .
Antoine . .
Minon . .
Frederic Robinson
Mme. Ponisi
. W. R. Floyd
J. W. Shannon
W. A. Eytinge
. . H. Ayling
. Pearl Eytinge
This comedy ran until the close of the season, June 16, and the next season commenced Sept. 10, 1878. The company consisted of John Gilbert, C. F. Coghlan, J. A. Kennedy, Charles Rock- well, Charles Barron, Wm. R. Floyd, Harry Beckett, J. W. Shan- non, E. M. Holland, W. J. Leonard, Mme. Ponisi, Rose Coghlan, Mrs. William Lindsay (Mrs. John Sefton), Effie Germon, Miss Blaisdell, John Brougham, C. E. Edwin, W. A. Eytinge, H. Pearson, Meta Bartlett, Stella Boniface, Nellie Bingham, Vin- cent Hogan, Pearl Eytinge, Mamie and Alice McCOrtttack, and Miss E. Grant. " Clarissa Harlowe " was the opening bill, and received this cast:
292 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSyS
Col. Harlowe . Lovelace . . The Professor Chaffinch . . James . . . Mrs. Harlowe . Clarissa . .
John Gilbert . C. F. Coghlan J. W. Shannon . E. M. HoUand . W. J. Leonard
Mme. Ponisi . Rose Coghlan
Capt. Solmer Geo. Harlowe Jack Belcher Sir Giles Jacob Budd Gurtha . . Jennie . .
Chas. Rockwell
J. A. Kennedy
Chas. Barron
W. R. Floyd
Harry Beckett
Mrs. Lindsay
Effie Germon
This was the first appearance at this theatre of C. F. Coghlan, J. A. Kennedy, and Charles Barron. The Mrs. Lindsay who played Mrs. Gurtha, was formerly Mrs. John Sefton, who had been married to William Lindsay, turf reporter of The New York Clipper. "The School for Scandal " was presented Sept. 21, and had this cast:
Lady Sneerwell . . . Pearl Eytinge
Rowley W. J. Leonard
Trip C. E. Edwin
Lady Sneerwell's Servant,
Harry Pearson
Sir Peter John Gilbert
Sir Oliver .... John Brougham
Charles Chas. F. Coghlan
Sir Benjamin .... Chas. Barron
Oct. 7 " The Road to Ruin " was seen, when Genevieve Rogers appeared as Sophia Freelove; Oct. 21, "The Jealous Wife;" a matinee performance Oct. 23 of "The Road to Ruin," for the benefit of the yellow fever sufferers; Oct. 28, "The Rivals," with Chas. Coghlan as Capt. Absolute; matinee, Nov. 11, Burnand's comedy, " Our Club, " was first acted, and had this cast :
|
Crabtree . . . |
. W. R. Floyd |
|
Moses .... |
E. M. Holland |
|
Careless . . . |
. Harry Beckett |
|
Sir Harry . . . |
Vincent Hogan |
|
Snake .... |
W. A. Eytinge |
|
Lady Teazle . . |
. Rose Coghlan |
|
Mrs. Candour . . |
. Mme. Ponisi |
|
Maria .... |
Stella Boniface |
Stanislaus . Alphonse . Henry . Capt. Ranger Baffley . . Doctor Stanmore Capt. Farrborough Tom Rippendale .
. W. R. Floyd . C. F. Coghlan . Chas. Barron
W. A. Eytinge . W. J. Leonard
J. W. Shannon Chas. Rockwell
E. M. Holland
Richard Frobisher Mrs. Dubuisson Nellie Gourdon Amanda . . Lady Ethel Mrs. Wray Polly . . .
. Harry Beckett . Effie Germon Stella Boniface . Minnie Vining . Rose Coghlan . Mrs. Lindsay Nellie Bingham
Dec. 4, an adaptation from the German of "Mein Leopold," by Dr. F. Harris and Fred Williams, entitled "My Son," had its first representation, and was thus cast:
Herr Mehlmeyer HerrWillner . . Herr Schwalbach Herr Weigel . . Leopold . . . Rudolph . . . Sandor . . . .
. . H. Beckett John Brougham
J. W. Shannon John Gilbert
Chas. Rockwell . Chas. Barron
E. M. Holland
Hemple W. J. Leonard
Clara Rose Coghlan
Mina Effie Germon
Frau Willner .... Mme. Ponisi
Emma Stella Boniface
Anna Meta Bardett
Marie Pearl Eytinge
1878]
WALLACK'S THEATRE
293
A matinee benefit was tendered John Gilbert Dec. 5, in honor of the completion of his fiftieth year upon the stage. The pro- gramme was: Third act of "Almost a Life," with this cast:
. Maud Granger Phillipe B. Maginley
Eben Plympton Jerome Gus Levick
. Rose Osborne Manuel B. T. Ringgold
Henry Eytinge Colinet Chas. Leclercq
Carlotta Evelyn M. Doranche . . . . E. H. Stevens
. H. A. Weaver Madelaine Sadie Bigelow
A recitation by George S. Knight came next, and was followed by "Kerry," with this cast:
Avisie Doranche . Jules De Bonneval Countess Clairnot Count Clairnot . Frincine . . . Dr. Saumire . .
Blanche Desmond Gerald Desmond Capt. Coldham
Agnes Booth
A. Stevenson
C. Rockwell
Kerry Dion Boucicault
Dr. Mellish ... J. W. Shannon Kate Stella Boniface
"A Morning Call," with Lester Wallack as Sir Edward Ardent and Ada Dyas as Lady Chillington, was the next item on the pro- gramme, and was succeeded by the screen scene from " The School for Scandal " :
Sir Peter . Lady Teazle
John Gibbs Gilbert . . Rose Coghlan
Charles C. F. Coghlan
Joseph Chas. Barron
The third act of
Count Vladimer Anna . . .
W. Ramsey . Sara Jewett
After this Mr. Gilbert addressed the audience. "The Danicheffs" was next seen, with this cast:
Ossip . . . Chas. R. Thome, Jr.
Nickifor H. F. Daly
Countess Danichefii Mrs. E. J. Phillips
Then came the "bagatelle " called "The Chinese Question " :
Billy J. C. Williamson
Kitty . . . Mrs. J. C. Williamson Nellie Leonore Bigelow
Harry . . . Fred . . . , Mrs. Freewell
W. S. Harkins
. A. H. Stuart
Miss A. Eaton
The entertainment closed with the negro sketch, "Society Actors," by Billy Birch and Charley Backus.
John G. Gilbert was born at Boston, Mass., Feb. 27, 1810, and was one of the few American-born actors connected with Wallack's Theatre. His first appearance on the stage was at the Tremont Theatre, in his native city, Nov. 28, 1828, as Jaffier, in "Venice Preserved." His first appearance in this city was at the Old Bowery Theatre in June, 1839, as Sir Edward Mortimer, in "The Iron Chest." He had prior to this been in the Southern theatres. It was at the old Camp Street theatre, New Orleans, La. , that he played small business. Being cast for Sir Frederick Vernon, in "Rob Roy," he resolved to make his mark. Just before going on for the part that night (he was letter perfect at rehearsal) he was anxiously waiting for his cue; but when it came and took him on
294 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSys
the stage he grew faint, dizzy, hot, and cold, by turns; in fact, he was taken with "stage fright," and was speechless. He was roundly hissed, which brought him to his senses, and he managed to get through the performance after a fashion. In April, 1847, he went to England, and appeared at the Princess' Theatre, London, as Robert Bramble, in "The Poor Gentleman." He returned to this country, and appeared at the old Park Theatre here, Sept. 30, 1848, in "The Rivals." He remained at that theatre until its de- struction by fire, Dec. 16, 1848. He spoke the "tag" in "Naval Engagements," the last piece performed there, and had the last word on the stage. He first appeared at Wallack's Theatre (Thirteenth Street and Broadway) Sept. 22, 1862, as Sir Peter Teazle, and continued with Mr. Wallack until the end of that gentleman's management. His first wife died in this city, Oct. 27, 1866. His second wife (a non-professional lady) was Sarah H. Gavett, to whom he was married in June, 1867. He was one of the best representatives of old men ever seen on the American stage. He died at Boston, Mass., June 17, 1889, where he had been lying ill since May 22. Mr. Gilbert's ailment was Bright's disease of the kidneys. He had long been troubled with that malady, but had concealed the fact from his most intimate friends. He was con- scious until within three minutes of the end. On his seventy- eighth birthday, Feb. 27, 1888, he was given a dinner at the Lambs' club, this city. His last appearance on any stage was made with Joseph Jefferson's company, which concluded a two weeks' engagement in "The Rivals," at the Fifth Avenue Theatre, this city, on Nov. 10, 1888, Mr. Gilbert playing Sir Anthony; Mr. Jefferson, Bob Acres; and Mrs. John Drew, Mrs. Malaprop.
Some of Mr. Gilbert's greatest impersonations were: King John, Hubert, King Philip, Cardinal Pandulph, Sir Peter Teazle, Sir Oliver Surface, Crabtree, Rowley, Sir Anthony Absolute, Kit Cosey, Sir William Dorrilon, Lord Pleony, Sir William Fondlove, Sir John Falstaff, Justice Woodcock, Malvolio, Polonius, the Ghost of King Hamlet, Dogberry, Adam, Leontes, Antigonus, Autoly- cus, Mr. Simpson, Lord Duberly, Tom Noddy, Captain Copp, Colonel Hardy, Governor Heartall, Sir Bashful Constant, Lord Ogleby, Dr. Cantwell, Sir Robert Bramble, Sir Francis Gripe, Squeers, Mr. Dombey, Justice Greedy, Colonel Damas, Admiral Kingston, Don Manuel, Old Hardcastle, Shylock, Sir Edward Mortimer, Dr. Dilworth, Sir Paul Pagoda, Sir Paladin Scruple, Sir Harcourt Courtley, Sarcasm, Dominie Sampson, Bailie Nicol Jarvie, Sir Alexander Shendryn, Penruddock, Adrastus, lago, Master Walter, Matthew Elmore, Henry VIII., Cardinal Wolsey, Jacques, Adam Brock, Old Norval, Job Thornberry, Jesse Rural, Menenius, Adam Winterton, Old Rapid, Mr. Aspen, and Coddle. He completely identified himself with his many characters, whether
1879]
WALLACK'S THEATRE
295
as the choleric Sir Anthony Absolute, the polished old fop, Sir Harcourt Courtley, sturdy and tender Job Thornberry, or the aged and tottering Lord Ogleby, in "The Clandestine Marriage," which was a faultless performance. Roderick Penruddock, in "The Wheel of Fortune," was another capital impersonation of his. His Caleb Plummer, in "The Cricket on the Hearth," was a perfect gem, — a thoroughly artistic realization of the part, and his Col. Damas, in "The Lady of Lyons," was a fine dramatic pic- ture of the bluff and brave old soldier.
The first time on any stage of Paul Merritt's play, "At Last," was Dec. 30, and with this cast :
John Garlan . . . Lester Wallack
Richard Roxby . . . C. F. Coghlan
Austin Granby . . Chas. Rockwell
Fitzroy Smith . . . , W. R. Floyd
Magnum .... J. W. Shannon Mrs. Sharkleigh . . . Effie Germon Cissy Granby . . . Stella Boniface Annie Rose Coghlan
"Ours" was revived Jan. 13, 1879. -^ matinee benefit was given Feb. 14 for the farewell of Sig. Brignoli, when the opera "Don Pasquale" was sung; Mile. lima De Murska as Norina, Brignoli as Ernest, Ferranti as Dr. Malatesta, Susini as Don Pasquale.
Boucicault's adaptation from Dumas' " Spellbound " was first acted Feb. 24, The cast:
Louis De La Roche . . Henry Lee Mariette .... Miss E. Blaisdell
Remy C. E. Edwin
Notary G. C. Sherman
Gabrielle Rose Coghlan
Mrs. Robinson . . . Mabel Jordan
Suzanne Pearl Eytinge
Marthe Minnie Vining
Count Raoul . . . Lester Wallack
Victor W. R. Floyd
Charles Joseph Holland
Ali Chas. Rockwell
Mondor W. A. Eytinge
Brissac W. J. Leonard
George De Sonneval . E. M. Holland Mme. De La Roche,
Mrs. G. C. Boniface
This was the first appearance at this theatre of Henry Lee and Mabel Jordan, and the New York debut of Joseph Holland. " A Scrap of Paper" was first played at this house March 10, and re- ceived this cast:
Prosper Couramount, Lester Wallack Louise^ de La Glaciere, Stella Boniface M. Brisemouche . . . John Gilbert Baron de La Glaciere, Chas. Rockwell Suzanne de Ruseville . Rose Coghlan Mile. Mathilde de Merival,
Kate Bartlett Mme. Dupont . . Miss E. Blaisdell
"The Snowball" had its first hearing here April 28, and was thus cast:
|
Mile. Zenolie . . |
. . EiBe Germon |
|
Anatole .... |
. . N. S. Wood |
|
Baptiste . . . |
. . C. E. Edwin |
|
Frangois . . . |
. . . . J. Peck |
|
Pauline .... |
. . Pearl Eytinge |
Felix Featherstone . Harry Prendergast . Arabella Featherstone
C. F. Coghlan
W. R. Floyd
Rose Coghlan
Uncle John .... John Gilbert
Ethel Stella Boniface
Penelope Effie Germon
296 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [11879
" Delicate Ground " preceded the comedy, with Katharine Rogers as Pauline, and Mr. Coghlan as Citizen Sangfroid. A novel and unique representation of "Pinafore" in miniature commenced May 5 by a company of juvenile actors. They gave a series of family matinees. The company was under the management of John T. Ford and E. E. Zimmerman. The performances were given each day in the week. " Pinafore " had this juvenile cast :
Sir Joseph Porter . Harry Davenport Phoebe Ida Gallagher
Ralph Rackstraw . . Miss Jennie Bill Bobstay R. Schmidt
Tom Tucker . Baby Belle Goodman Bob Becket C. Minchin
Tom Bowline . . . Ijarry Wagner First Marine . . . B. C. Anderson
Dick Deadeye . . F. W. Haedrich Buttercup .... DoUie Williams
Capt. Corcoran . . . . J. B. Smith Hebe Lillie Parslow
Josephine NeUie Everest
The season closed May 17, and a summer term commenced May 19 with "As You Like It," Miss Ada Cavendish being the star:
Rosalind . . Duke Frederick Jaques . . Orlando Adam . . Touchstone Oliver . . Corin . . Amiens . . Celia . . Le Beau
Ada Cavendish
F. A. Tannehill Fred. Robinson
. Jos. Wheelock John Gilbert
. Harry Gilbert Chas. Rockwell E. M. Holland
. . Jas. Peakes Stella Boniface W. A. Eytinge
Banished Duke . . . H. A. Weaver
Sylvius J. A. Kennedy
William C. E. Edwin
Jaques De Bois . . . . M. Wilson
Charles R. Warren
Denis J. Peck
Louis Frank Lull
Eustace J. Carter
Audrey Effie Germon
Phebe Laura Wallace
"The Hunchback," Miss Cavendish as Julia, June 4; "Miss Gwilt," dramatized from Wilkie Collins' novel of "Armadale," was acted for the first time in America June 5, with this cast :
Allen Armadale Midwinter Major Milroy Police Detective Mr. Darch . ,
. Henry Lee Jos. Wheelock E. M. HoUand
. . F. LuU C. Rockwell
Francis . . . Miss Milroy . . Dr. Downward . Tradesmen's Boy . . Louisa (first appearance
here) . . . Miss Gwitt . .
C. E. Edwin
Stella Boniface
H. A. Weaver
H. Pearson
Helen Vincent Ada Cavendish
Captain Manuel (first appearance here) F. Hardenbergh
" Woolfert's Roost, or a Legend of Sleepy Hollow," by George Fawcett Rowe, was first acted on the stage here August 18, with this cast:
Dolf Haverstraw Katrina . . John . . . The Ghost . . Phoebe . . . Ichabod Crane
. . . Henry Lee . . Kate Forsyth . E. M. Holland . P. A. Anderson Connie Thompson John T. Raymond
Brom Van Brunt . . F. Hardenbergh Baltus Van Tassel . J. W. Shannon Dame Haverstraw . . Mme. Ponisi
Emma Courtney Barnes
Mrs. Perkins .... Josie Myers
The Maurice Grau French opera company began a short season Sept. 15, in "La Fille de Mme. Angot," which had this cast:
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297
Clairette Amaranthe Javotte . . Therese Manon . . Babet . . Cydalise Delaunay . Herbelin . Hersilie Mile. Lange
Paola Marie
Mile. Delorme
. Mile. Sylla
Mile. Berthe
Mile. Armand
Mile. Duparc
. Mile. Sylla
Mile. Estradere
Mile. J. Debray
Mile. A. Bazin
. Mile. Angele
Pomponnet Larivaudiere Louchard Trenitz . Cadet . Guillaume Buteux . Un Incroyable Un Garcon Ange Pitou (first French opera)
. Mr. Juteau . Mr. Jouard Mr. Duplan Mr. Vilano Mr. Terancle Mr. Dupuis . . Mauriez . Mr. Terbel Mr. Moreau appearance in . . M. Victor Capoul
The next regular season opened Oct. 4, 1879, when "Contempt of Court " was seen for the first time, and with this cast :
Clicquot Fanny . Louise . ClairviUe Galouette Mizas
Harry Beckett
. . Ada Dyas
Rose Wood
. W. R. Floyd
E. M. Holland
j. W. Shannon
MarioUe .... Miss E. Blaisdell Leopold .... W. J. Leonard Mr. Delacour . Frank Hardenbergh Col. Lucenay . . . Chas. Rockwell Giraud (first appearance at this theatre). . . . J. H. Gilmour
After thirty-two consecutive performances, it was withdrawn -Nov. 6, when Byron's "Our Girls" was acted for the first time, receiving this cast :
Josiah Clench Lord Aspland Tony Judson . Clara Merton Plantagenet
. Henry Edwards
. . J. H. Gilmour
Maurice Barrymore
Stella Boniface
Harry Beckett
Thomas C. E. Edwin
Mallet W. J. Leonard
Mrs. Clench .... Mme. Ponisi Mabel Clench . . . Rose Wood Jane Emma Loraine
This was the first appearance in this theatre of Harry Edwards, Maurice Barrymore, and Emma Loraine. Albert Lancaster's "Estelle, or False and True," followed. It was founded on Cherbuliez's novel, "Samuel Brohl and Company," and cast thus:
Barwood Beech Blair . . Lord Milroy Dr. MoncrifE Millington . Nicolo . . Giacomo
. . H. Beckett . E. M. Holland , J. H. Gilmour . W. J. Leonard G. C. Sherman . . T. Morgan H. Pearson
Count Petrovsky . . Gerald Eyre Arthur Morton . Frederic Robinson Horace Chantrey . Harry Edwards Levi Rosenthal . . . C. E. Edwin
Estelle Ada Dyas
Princess Rose Wood
Mrs. Blair EfBe Germon
" Old Heads and Young Hearts " was presented Dec. 24, with the first appearance this season of John Gilbert, who had been ill for a long time. He acted Jesse Rural; J. H. (jilmour, Charles Roebuck; Maurice Barrymore, Littleton Coke; and Ada Dyas, Lady Alice. " She Stoops to Conquer " was given Dec. 29, with Lester Wallack as Charles Marlowe. Con. T. Murphy made his ddbut here, acting Jeremy. Lester Wallack had but just returned from a Western starring tour. This comedy was acted for one week, and the receipts were ;^io,ooo; for the matinee, ^1,589.
298 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D880
"A Scrap of Paper" was acted Jan. 5, 1880, when Thomas Jeffer- son (son of Joseph Jefferson) made his first appearance here. "London Assurance" was given Jan. 12; "She Stoops to Con- quer," Jan. 19; "My Awful Dad," Jan. 26. "The Shaughraun " was revived Feb. 2, and had this cast:
Capt. Molineux .
Robert Ffolliott .
Claire Ffolliott , Bridget Madigan
Father Dolan . .
Corry Kinshela .
Harvey Duff . .
Maurice Barrymore . J. H. Gilmour . . Ada Dyas Miss £. Blaisdell John Gilbert Gerald Eyre . Harry Beckett
|
Conn . . . |
. Dion Boucicault |
|
Moya . . . |
Stella Boniface |
|
Reilly . . . |
. Con. T. Murphy |
|
Arte O'Neal . |
. . Rose Wood |
|
Mrs. O'Kelly . |
. . Mme. Ponisi |
|
Nancy . . . |
. . . Minnie Vining |
"The Colleen Bawn " was produced Feb. 24; March 8 "The Liar " was revived, with this cast :
Young Wilding . . Lester Wallack Sir James Elliott, Maurice Barrymore Old Wilding .... John Gilbert Papillion Harry Beckett
John". . . . Miss Grantham Miss Godfrey .
H,
Pearson, Jr.
Ada Dyas
Mme. Ponisi
"How She Loves Him " was produced March 15, with this cast:
Tom Vacil . . Diogenes . . Dr. Maximum Dr. Skwertz . Sir Richard Hotspur
Lester Wallack Dion Boucicault . W. J. Leonard
J. W. Shannon John Gilbert
Dick Hartley . . Maurice Barrymore Capt. Yawley . . . . J. H. Gilmour Dr. Minimum . . . Harry Edwards
Atalanta Cruiser . . Stella Boniface Lady Selina Raffleticket, Mme. Ponisi Mrs. Tucker . . . Annie Myrtelle C. E. Edwin Rose Wood Minnie Vining
Dr. Sparks Mrs. Vacil . Tippet . . Miss Dilwyn
Jenny Boyd
This was the first time Lester Wallack and Dion Boucicault were seen together in the same play. A matinee benefit was given March 1 7 in aid of The Herald Relief fund for the famine-stricken people in Ireland, when " How She Loves Him " was played to ;^S9i.50; "Old Heads and Young Hearts" was seen March 29; April 5 " To Marry or Not to Marry " was played, and thus cast :
Sir Oswin Mortland, Mr. Willowear . . Lady Susan Courtly Lord Danberry . .
Lester Wallack
. Harry Beckett
. Effie Germon
John Gilbert
Thomas H. Pearson, Jr.
Hester Stella Boniface
Sarah Mortland . . . Mme. Ponisi
George Hoey's drama, "A Child of the State," had this cast for its first production April 21 :
The Count Maurice de Lancy,
Maurice Barrymore Frederich Von Helmich, John Gilbert Louise Von Helmich . . Rosa Rand
Christian Gerald Eyre
Heinrich .... Harry Edwards Gros Ren^ .... Lester Wallack
Fritz W. J. Leonard
Bidoche George Ulmer
Hans Verner . . . . C. E. Edwin
Carl H. Pearson
Gertrande Emily Rigl
Marie Marion Booth
Carline Stella Boniface
l88oJ
WALLACK'S THEATRE
299
" My Awful Dad " was revived May 24
Adonis Evergreen Baron Kotchbery Fibs . . . . . Emma .... Charlotte . . . Evangeline . .
Lester Wallack
J. W. Shannon
Con. T. Murphy
. Kate Bartlett
Minnie Vining
. Miss K. Smith
Dibs Nibs . Cruets Matilda Mrs. Biggs
. C. E. Edwin . . H. Pearson . W. J. Leonard Stella Boniface . Mme. Ponisi
Geo. F. Devere, who was in the cast, made his debut here. The closing performance of the season was May 31, for the benefit of W. R. Floyd, when the following bill was offered: "To Oblige Benson," the third act of "Othello":
John E. McCuUough . . . Marion Booth
Othello . . Desdemona
lago Edwin Booth
Cassio Chas. Rockwell
Emelia .... Genevieve Reynolds
After this came "A Morning Call," Lester Wallack as Sir Edward and Ada Dyas as Mrs. Chillington. This was succeeded by the third and fourth acts of " London Assurance," Rose Coghlan as Lady Gay Spanker, and the entertainment closed with "The Irish Lion," EUie Wilton playing Mrs. Fitzgig. A special per- formance occurred June i for the farewell benefit of Harry Beckett. "The Household Fairy," one act of "She Stoops to Conquer," one act of "The Lady of Lyons," "Married," and Professor Herrmann made up the programme.
A summer season commenced June 5, with F. S. Chanfrau in "Kit," which had this cast:
Kit Chanfrau
Judge Snuggs .... Leslie Allen Major Squigs . . . . H. A. Weaver Washington Stubbs . . S. H. Verney Manuel Bond . . . Fulton Russell Lord Fitzfoley . . . J. H. Gilmour James Temple . . . B. F. Horning
George Conquest, with a burlesque and pantomime troupe, ap- peared Aug. 5, in "Grim Goblin," a two-act extravaganza, with this cast:
Caesar Smith . Capt. Wheeler Alice Redding Mrs. Stubbs . Mrs. Temple . Frau Pedders . Sir Parker . .
. Geo. Woodward
W. J. Leonard
Stella Boniface
, . Marion Booth
Victoria Cameron
. . J. McDonald
. W. V. Ranous
Hie Hac
Prince Pigmy
Nix y . George Conquest
Rokoko
The Vampire Bat _
The Widow Grizzlegrief, Harry Allen
Tallbones . . George Conquest, Jr.
The Fairy Honeydew . Mile. Etheria
Princess Melodia . Laura Conquest
Shakeigh Shank . . . R. H. Nichols
Boohbeigh M. W. Fiske
Hopeful .... Maude Stafford Gobble A. W. Maflin
Guzzle Ed. Chapman
Waspino .... Lillian Lancaster
Venomio H. Ricketts
Poisano . . . ' . . . . G. Ricketts
Agonus W. Elliott
Stingono E. Havens
Beppo Elsie Deane
Peppo Bessie Temple
Leppo Alice Wright
Zeppo Louise Loring
Sancho Susie Parker
Pedro Sophie Hummel
300 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisso
On the opening night, while doing his act, the " Flying Fairy and Phantom Flight," in taking the flight, Geo. Conquest fell from the flies to the stage and sustained a compound fracture of his left leg. He did not afterwards perform in this country, and his characters were played by his son. This feat of the Flying Fairy consisted of the performer flying from floor to ceiling, where he grasped a swinging trapeze, to which a rope was thrown, and by which he descended to the stage as quickly as possible. The ac- cident was caused by the breaking of a rope. The engagement of this troupe was a failure, and it terminated Sept. ii.
The twenty-ninth season, and the last of Wallack's company at this house, opened Sept. 30, 1880, with the following company: Osmond Tearle, Wm. Elton, Harry M. Pitt, John Gilbert, W. R. Floyd, Gerald Eyre, W. J. Leonard, W. H. Pope, Rose Coghlan, Stella Boniface, Adelaide Detchon, Kate Bartlett, Misses E. Blaisdell, M. Vining, and A. Elliott, Emma Loraine, Marion Booth, Mme. Ponisi, Effie Germon, Harry Pearson, Jr., C. E. Edwin, J. H. Gilmour, John W. Jennings, and Harry Edwards. John Gilbert was acting manager; W. R. Floyd, stage director; J. S. Wright, prompter; Theo. Moss, treasurer; and Thomas Baker, musical director. " As You Like It " was the opening production :
Jaques Osmond Tearle
Adam John Gilbert
Orlando Harry M. Pitt
Oliver Gerald Eyre
Le Beau J. H. Gilmour
Amiens James G. Peakes
Corin W. J. Leonard
Sylvius Albert Roberts
Touchstone .... William Elton
The Banished Duke, Harry Edwards Duke Frederick . . James Harrison Charies, the Wrestler . J. M. Laflin
Denis H. Pearson, Jr.
Rosalind Rose Coghlan
Celia Stella Boniface
Audrey Effie Germon
Phebe Marion Booth
Harry Pitt, William Elton, and Osmond Tearle made their American d^but on this occasion. It was also the first appear- ance at this theatre of James Harrison and Albert Roberts.
"The Guv'nor" was first acted Oct. 19, and marked the first ap- pearance here of Conway, Adelaide Detchon, and W. L. Gleason. "The Guv'nor" had this cast:
Butterscotch .... John Gilbert
Freddy Osmond Tearle
Gregory .... W. L. Gleason
Cantle Albert Roberts
Aurelia EiHe Germon
Theodore Macclesfield, William Elton Mrs. Macclesfield . . Mme. Ponisi
The MacToddy . . . Gerald Eyre Carrie .... Adelaide Detchon
Theodore Harry M. Pitt
Cab Driver .... C. E. Edwin
Ullage George Conway
Kate Stella Boniface
"Forget Me Not" was first seen here Dec. 18, and was thus cast:
I88lj
WALLACK'S THEATRE
301
Sir Horace Welby . Osmond Tearle Prince Malleotti . . Harry Edwards
Stephanie Rose Coghlan
Rose, Vicomtesse de Brissac,
Agnes Elliott
Alice Verney Barrato . . Roberts . . Luigi . . Mrs. Foley
Stella Boniface
Gerald Eyre
Harry J. HoUiday
H. Pearson, Jr.
. Mme. Ponisi
Extra matinees on Wednesday of "The Guv'nor" commenced Dec. 22 and continued for four weeks. " The School for Scandal " was revived Jan. 24, 1881. "Forget Me Not" had to be withdrawn in obedience to an order of the Superior Court, an injunction having been applied for by Genevieve Ward, who claimed the sole right to the play. The last performance was Jan. 13. "Where 's the Cat.' " a comedy by James Alberry, was first seen here Feb. 5, when Rose Wood made her first appearance this season. It was thus cast :
Garroway Fawn Scott Ramsay Geo. Smith Stella . . . Nan ....
Osmond Tearle
. Horatio Saker
. . Wm. Elton
Rose Wood
Emma Loraine
Percival Gay First Guide Mrs. Smith Dagmar Madge . .
. . . H. M. Pitt
Harry HoUiday
. . EfBe Germon
Adelaide Detchon
Stella Boniface
Byron's comedy, "The Upper Crust," was heard Feb. 23, and had this cast :
Lord Hesketh . . Harry Edwards
Robert Boobleton . Osmond Tearle
Barnaby Doublechick . Wm. Elton
Kate Stella Boniface
Lady Boobleton . . . Mme. Ponisi
Walter H. M. Pitt
Nora .... Adelaide Detchon
March 1 1 " The Rivals " was given ; March 24, " Old Heads and Young Hearts; " " A Scrap of Paper " was given March 29 and ran until April 11, when Lester Wallack made his last appearance at this house as Prosper Couramount. " The World " was first pro- duced in America under the management of Samuel Colville, April 12, at this house, and cast thus :
Mo. Jewell William Elton
Blackstone .... Wilmot Eyre
Lumley D. Leeson
Owen W. J. Leonard
Ned Emma Loraine
Dr. Wyndham ... C. E. Edwin Clement Huntingford Osmond Tearle Harry Huntingford . . Harry M. Pitt Martin Bashford . . . Gerald Eyre
Dr. Hawkins . . George W. Conway Commissioner in Lunacy,
H. Pearson, Jr.
Detective . . . Mabel Huntingford Mary Blythe . . Locksley . . . Lawrence . . . Joe
Robert Warren
Stella Boniface
Adelaide Detchon
. Harry Gwynette
Albert Roberts
. H. HoUiday
The lime light has proved an important factor in all melodramas produced of late years. I have searched many authorities to as- certain when it was first used in a theatre. When Charles Kean revived "Henry VIH." at the Princess' Theatre, London, in 1855, this mode of lighting the stage was said to be its first adoption. But it had already been used by James R. Anderson in the Drury
302 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cissi
Lane Theatre spectacle of "Azrael the Prodigal." Desiring to obtain "further light" on this subject, I wrote to Mr. Anderson, who says that the lime light was very much improved in 1851-52, when " Azrael " was brought out, but that within his own personal knowledge it had been used so far back as the season of 1837-38.
At that time it was the exclusive property of Fred Gye (after- wards the Italian opera manager). It was secured by Wm. Macready to give effect to certain views in the Covent Garden pantomime of " Peeping Tom of Coventry. " Notwithstanding its great effect in the moonlight views, Mr. Macready thought the expense of hire (^7.25 a night) too great, and he did not use it after the first week.
Rose Coghlan's first benefit in America took place on the after- noon of June I, when "Camille" was acted. The season closed July 2, and Mr. Lester Wallack retired from the management of the theatre. Some of the notable performances in the old days, not only on account of their artistic quality, but on account of the then large receipts, were "The Poor Gentleman," which drew on its opening night $6$^ 5 "The Provoked Husband," which averaged ^553 for several performances; "She Stoops to Conquer," which played seven times in one season to an average of 1^780; "Still Waters Run Deep," which averaged ;^8oo; "School for Scandal," the same; and "Captain of the Watch," ;^500. Many of the habitues of the old Wallack's will recall a favorite play entitled "Central Park." That was down to average receipts of 1^480. Five performances of "The Belle's Stratagem," another old time Wallack's favorite, averaged ^450. The first performance of "The Rivals," during the season of 1863, was a red letter night, the re- ceipts having been ;^900. But the great run of those days was made by "Rosedale," in which Lester Wallack was a singularly graceful, handsome, and attractive hero. The r61e fitted him ad- mirably. The play ran in 1863 for one hundred and twenty-five nights, something almost unprecedented, and brought in average receipts of $710, which at present theatre prices for seats would be ;^i,482. When the play was revived in 1865, it had nineteen performances to average receipts of ^900. The most phenomenal run at the house occurred during the following decade, when Dion Boucicault produced " The Shaughraun, " which had one hundred and forty-three performances, with total receipts of $220,076.50. The evening performances averaged $1,617; the matinees, $1,390. "The World," an English melodrama, made one of the "runs" of the old house. It was given eighty-four times to a total of $65,000. "Youth," another English melodrama, was produced the following season, and made even a better run, — seventy-seven performances to $73,000. As in 1861, the trend was again up town, and if Lester Wallack resorted to melodrama to attract his patrons, it was because the old comedies which had been so delightfully
1883:
THE STAR THEATRE
303
given at his house were no longer potent enough to draw audiences like those of its earlier days.
After Lester Wallack's retirement the name of this house was changed to "The Germania Theatre," Sept 15, 1881. The manager was Adolph Neuendorff.
Feb. 23, 1882, Henry E. Abbey commenced a brief season of Italian opera, with Adelina Patti in "La Traviata." "II Bar- biere," Feb. 27; "Faust," March 2-6; "II Trovatore," March 9, Patti as Leonore; "Lucia," March 13; and Patti's last appearance March 16, in "La Traviata," when the season closed. The prices of admission were: Orchestra, ;^8; first three rows in balcony, $8; remaining rows, ;^5; first three rows second balcony, $4; remain- ing rows, ^3. On the " off " nights German plays were seen. An extra performance was given prior to Patti's departure for Europe, April 3, when she sang "Lucia." German performances were then resumed by Mr. Neuendorff
A season of English opera commenced May 8, by the I. W. Norcross company, with "The Mascot," which ran for over a month. "The Merry War" was produced, for the first time on any stage in English, June 26, and had this cast:
Umberto Spinola Fortunato Franchetti Violetta . . , Riccardo Surraza Van Scheelen Biffi . . . . Artemisia . . Theresa . . Gioranini . .
W. T. Carleton
Mr. Ross
. Dora Wiley
. Mr. Jones
Mr. Schmidt
Mr. Canard
. Bella Cole
Miss Arlington
Miss Lincoln
Bettina Miss Power
Carlo Spuizzi Mr. Hunt
Balthasar Groot .... Mr. Adolfi
Gini Rose Wilson
Elsa Louise Paullin
Camilla Miss Elbon
Agnese Miss Wisdom
Francesca Campbell
Lester Wallack resumed possession of this house Jan. 10, 1883, it having failed as a German theatre. It was reopened March 26 as the " Star Theatre, " by which name it was known until it ceased to exist.
THE STAR THEATRE
T
HE first production at the Star Vice Versa, " and the cast was :
Theatre was Boucicault's
Phenix O'Flattery . Dion Boucicault Mrs. Clingstone Peach, Sadie Martinot Angelina Hyde . . Therese Waldron Jeremiah Dodge . . Owen S. Fawcett
Madge Sara Von Leer
Count Popoir .... J. J. Wallace Count Kickemoff . . . . D. Ellis
Baron Jugowiski ... P. S. Cooke John Hyde . . . Benj. Maginley
Alexander G. Gilmore
Isidor Mr. Bland
Joe Reynolds
Wilkinson G. Clarke
Mrs. Cudley .... Miss Bowen
The house was closed April 11 for a rehearsal of "The Shau- ghraun," produced matinee of April 12 for the Actors' Fund benefit. The cast was :
304 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE E1883
Capt. Molineux . . . Wm. Herbert Corry Kinchela . . P. A. Anderson
Nancy Miss Myers
Robert FfoUiott . . . . C. W. Day Harvey Duff .... Wm. Elton
Reilly G. Reynolds
Sullivan King
Donovan Newton
Claire FfoUiott Biddy . . Father Dolan Sergt. Jones Arte . . . Mrs. O'Kelly Moya . .
. EUie Wilton
Miss L. Langdon
Ben. Maginley
. . J. E. Bland
Therese Waldron
Mme. Ponisi
Sadie Martinet
Boucicault's play, "The Amadan," was seen April 19, with this cast:
Colley . . . Michael O'Leary Owen Darrell Boyle Carew Ted Carew Dr. Fogarty Elfie Carew
Dion Boucicault, Jr.
. Dion Boucicault
. . Wm. Herbert
. . Chas. Foster
. . Arthur Forrest
. . Ben. Maginley
. . Lillian Cleves
Rooney Walton
Foxey Joseph A. Wilkes
Col. O'Keefe Clarke
Clancey Reynolds
Mulligan King
Dora Sadie Martinot
Miss Dodd . . Mrs. Mary Barker
"The Colleen Bawn" was revived, with Dion Boucicault as Myles ne-Coppaleen, Dion Boucicault, Jr., as Danny Mann, Sadie Martinot as Eily, and Lillian Cleves as Anne Chute. Matinee, May 31 William Elton took a farewell benefit, when "Hamlet" was acted, with Osmond Tearle as Hamlet, Rose Coghlan as Ophelia, and Mr. Elton as the First Grave-digger. The next season commenced Aug. 27, 1883, with Lawrence Barrett in "Francesca da Rimini," which had this cast:
Lanciotto .... Lawrence Barrett Cardinal Malespini . . Errol Dunbar Lodovico . . Master Eugene Sanger Marco .... Herman Groneberg Francesca . . . Marie Wainwright Count Paolo .... Otis Skinner
Malatesta B. G. Rogers
Beppo Pepe .... Louis James
Oct. 18 a matinee performance of " Richelieu "was given for the benefit of the St. Vincent's Hospital. Oct. 29 was the American debut of Henry Irving and his London company in "The Bells," cast as follows :
Rene Lucentio Vicentio TorelU . Captain . Officer . Ritta
. . Percy Winter Wilton A. Lackaye . W. F. Gerald . A. T. Riddle . . S. Du Bois . W. S. Ward Addie Plunkett
Mathias Mr. Irving
Walter Mr. Carter
Hans Mr. Johnson
Christian Mr. Terriss
Dr. Zimmer .... Mr. Haviland Notary Mr. Harbury
Mesmerist Catherine Sozel Annette
President of the Court Clerk of the Court .
. . Mr. Archer
. Mrs. Pauncefort
Miss Harwood
Miss A. Coleridge
. Mr. Tyars Mr. Harwood
The prices for this engagement were fixed as follows : Orchestra and balcony, ^3 each; back balcony, $2; family circle, reserved, ^1.50, and general admission, $1. Speculators were asking from $7 to $8 for the best orchestra seats. Mr. Irving was called before
18833
THE STAR THEATRE
305
the curtain several times after each act. "Charles I." was pro- duced Oct. 30, and in it Ellen Terry, Mr. H. Howe, Mr. Lyndall, Miss De Sylva, and Miss F. Holland made their first appearances. The entire organization was brought to this country from Europe by Mr. Irving. H. J. Loveday was stage manager; J. Meredith Ball, musical director. Bram Stoker was the acting manager. "Charles I." was acted Oct. 30 for one week, except evening Nov. 3, when "The Bells" was first given, with Mr. Irving as Mathias ; Nov. 5, " Louis XL ; " Nov. 6, 7, 8, 9, matinee Nov, 10, "The Merchant of Venice;" Nov. 12, 13, "The Lyons Mail;" Nov. 14, IS, 16, 17, "The Merchant of Venice;" Nov. 19, 20, "The Belle's Stratagem."
A professional matinee was given Nov. 20, when "Louis XI." had this cast :
|
Due de Nemours |
. W. Terriss |
|
Sieur de Commines . |
Harbury |
|
Jacques Coitier . . |
T. Wenman |
|
Monseigneur de Lude |
. . Dwyer |
|
The Count de Dunois |
. . Marion |
|
Louis XI |
Henry Irving |
|
The Dauphin . . . |
A. Andrews |
|
Tristan I'Ermite . . |
. . . Tyars |
|
Oliver de Dain |
. . Archer |
|
Francis de Paule |
. T. Mead |
Cardinal D'Alby - . . . Helmsley
Count de Dreux Louther
Montjoie Lyndall
Marcel Johnson
Richard Harvey
Didier Epitaux
Marie Millward
Jeanne Harwood
Martha Payne
"Louis XL" was repeated Nov. 21; Nov. 22, "The Lyons Mail;" Nov. 23, "The Merchant of Venice;" matinee Nov. 24, "The Bells" and "The Belle's Stratagem;" and Mr. Irving and company closed evening Nov. 24, with the first act of " Richard IIL," Irving as Gloster, "The Belle's Stratagem," and Mr. Irving recited Hood's poem, "The Dream of Eugene Aram."
Robson and Crane followed commencing Nov. 26 in " The Board- ing House." Their company was composed of A. S. Lipman, Chas. S. Dickson, M. B. Snyder, Herbert Ayling, J. K. Morti- mer, Jr., Frank E. Ambrose, Mainswaring, Swift, Sam Wright, Emily E. Baker, Mary Myers, Leonora Bradley, Georgie Dickson, Flora May Henry, Mattie Snyder, Belle Chapman, Rose Snyder.
Edwin Booth commenced an engagement Dec. 10, in " Riche- lieu." Dec. 12, 13, 14, "Leah." Evening Dec. 15, W. E. Sheri- dan acted Sir Giles Overreach in " A New Way to Pay Old Debts." He died at Sydney, Aus., May 15, 1887. His first wife was Sarah Hayes, who was drowned by the sinking of the propeller Metis in Long Island Sound, in the fall of 1872. She was on her way to join her husband. Mr. Sheridan's last appearance in this city was at the People's Theatre. During the war he served with the Sixth Ohio Regiment, and with the Signal Corps. He held the rank of captain, and was severely wounded in the arm at the battle of
VOL. 11.— 20
3o6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE E1884
Resaca, Ga. His determination to die rather than submit to ampu- tation preserved to him that important member of his body. On Dec. 17, 18, matinee, Dec. 22, Booth appeared as Hamlet; Dec. ig, 20, 21, Bertuccio in "The Fool's Revenge;" Saturday even- ing, Dec. 22, W. E. Sheridan acted " Louis XI. ; " Dec. 24 Booth acted lago; Christmas matinee and night, Sheridan repeated " Louis XL ;" Dec. 26, 29, Booth as lago, Sheridan as Othello; Dec. 27, 28, "The Merchant of Venice" and "Taming of the Shrew," Booth as Shylock and Petruchio; matinee Dec. 29, "Othello;" evening Dec. 29, Sheridan as Louis XI.; Dec. 31, Jan. i, and matin6e, Jan. s, 1884, "Macbeth," Booth as the hero, Eben Plympton as Macduff; Jan. 2, 3, 4, "Hamlet;" matinee, Dec. 5, "Macbeth;" evening Jan. 5, Sheridan as Ingomar, Louise Daven- port (Mrs. W. E. Sheridan) as Parthenia; Jan. 7, 8, Booth as Richelieu; Jan. 9, 10, "The Fool's Revenge;" Jan. 11, matinee, Jan. 12, "King Lear;" evening, Jan. 12, D. H. Harkins as Richard III. ; Jan. 14 and matinee, Jan. 19, Booth as Hamlet; Jan. 15, "King Lear;" Jan. 16, "The Merchant of Venice" and Petruchio in "Taming of the Shrew;" Jan. 17, "Macbeth;" Jan. 18, "Richelieu," and Booth closed with "Hamlet," matinee, Jan. 19; evening, Jan. 19, D. H. Harkins as Richard III.
Emma Latham made her debut Jan. 21 as Constance in "The Love Chase." The cast:
Wildrake Barton Hill
Waller Wilmot Eyre
Trueworth .... J. C. Buckstone
Neville John Germon
Lash Mr. Johns
Widow Green .... EfRe Germon
Alice Miss E. Blaisdell
Phcebe .... Miss C. Edgerton
Lydia Anita Fallon
Sir William Fondlove, Harry Edwards Humphreys . . . Marcus Moriarty
This lady closed her engagement Jan. 26 with this programme : I. Hunting scene from "The Love Chase." 2. The murder scene from "Macbeth." 3. Recitation, "The Old Church Organ," W. Carleton. 4. Curse scene from "Leah." 5. Recitation, "The Polish Boy." 6. Balcony scene from "Romeo and Juliet." 7. Potion scene from "Romeo and Juliet." Jan. 28, Mestayer & Barton's company, consisting of Harry Bloodgood, Robert E. Graham, John Gilbert, James B. RadclifEe, C. A. Steadman, H. A. Cripps, W. A. Mestayer, Kate Foley, Lisle Riddell, Helen Lowell, and Sophie Hummel, appeared Jan. 28 in "Wanted, a Partner." Feb. 11, Modjeska began an engagement in "Nad- jezda," by Maurice H. Barrymore:
THE PROLOGUE
Nedjezda Modjeska
Praxeda . . Mrs. M. A. Pennoyer Khorvitch .... Frank Clements
lanoush Edwin Cleary
Little Nadine . . Little Winnie Reed
I884II
THE STAR THEATRE
307
THE PLAY
Khorvitch, under the name of
Baron Barsh . . Frank Clements Prince ZabaroufF - . .Ian Robinson Lord Alsager ... T. L. Coleman Paul Devereux, Maurice H. Barrymore
lanoush Bolski . . . Edwin Cleary Honorable Miles O'Hara
Forbes Dawson Eureka Grubb . . . Georgie Drew Nadine Modjeska
Feb. 23 Modjeska acted Viola in "Twelfth Night;" Feb. 25, 28, "Nadjezda;" Feb. 26, and matinee, Feb. 30, "Camille;" Feb. 27, 30, "As You Like It;" Feb. 29, " Frou Frou."
During the season of 1884-85, the name of Lester Wallack was removed from the programmes of this theatre, and Theo. Moss' appeared as manager and proprietor.
John E. McCullough commenced his last New York engagement March 3, in " Virginias " :
Lucius Frank Little
Marcus William Haworth
Titus . . 1 . . Edward Wilson
Servius John V. Dailey
Cneus Edward Spencer
Soldier Edward Goodwin
Virginia Viola Allen
Virginius .... John McCullough
Servia Augusta Foster
Female Slave .... Cora Leslie
Icilius Joseph Haworth
Appius Claudius .... Mark Price Caius Claudius . . . H. C. Barton Dentatus .... H. A. Langdon Numitorius . . . . J. H. Shewell
Two weeks were devoted to "Virginius," which was followed, March 17, by "The Gladiator" for one week. During the week beginning March 24, "Brutus, or the Fall of Tarquin," "Othello," "Virginius," "The Gladiator," and "Richard HI.," were given. McCullough's last appearance on any stage was made Sept. 29^ 1884, as Spartacus in "The Gladiator," at McVicker's Theatre, Chicago. His acting on his last night clearly showed his great physical and mental weakness. He required frequent prompting, and in the death scene he nearly broke down. Some of the audience hissed and jeered. Mr. McCullough came before the curtain at the close, and, looking around ironically and with a half-dazed expression that would have moved to pity a more intelligent gathering, fal- tered out: "This is the best-mannered audience I ever saw. If you had suffered as I have, you would not have done this." On June 27, 1885, he was placed in Bloomingdale Insane Asylum, this city. He remained there until Oct. 2$ of the same year, when he was removed to his home in Philadelphia, where he died Nov. 8, 1885. His remains were taken to Monument cemetery, and temporarily buried.
An autopsy was made Nov. 17 and the physicians found that there was a disease of the blood vessels of the brain, diie to blood poison.
John E. McCullough was not a great actor. But off the stage he was a favorite — a man of genial temperament and warm heart.
3o8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [11884
His kindness of disposition knew no limits, and his many chari- ties, unostentatious and sincere, will keep his memory green for years to come. His list of parts and plays was as follows: Virginius, Othello, Lucius Brutus in "Brutus, or the Fall of Tarquin," Brutus in "Julius Caesar," lago, Macbeth, King Lear, Coriolanus, Spartacus in "The Gladiator," Benedick in "Much Ado About Nothing," Shylock in " The SlVlerchant of Venice," Petruchio in "Taming of the Shrew," Faulconbridge in "King John," Richard IH., Cardinal Wolsey in "Henry VIH.," Hamlet, Pierre in "Venice Preserved," Richelieu, Jack Cade, The Stranger, St. Pierre in "The Wife," Damon, Metamora, Claude Melnotte in "The Lady of Lyons," Duke Aranza in "The Honeymoon," Ingo- mar, Rolla in "Pizarro," Alfred Evelyn in "Money," Master Walter in "The Hunchback," and Febro in "The Broker of Bo- gota." Mr. McCullough went to Europe three times. He sailed from this city, June 5, 1880, on a pleasure trip in company with E. A. Sothern, John T. Raymond, and Rose Coghlan. He did not act that time, but when he revisited England in April, 1881, he opened at Drury Lane Theatre, London, in " Virginius. " The engagement continued till May 21, and he was seen also in "Othello." Pecuniarily it was not successful. He again crossed the water June 29, 1884, and went to the Springs of Carlsbad, Germany, for his health. It was while acting at Cincinnati, O., at the Dramatic Festival, that he began to show signs of serious illness. He acted Brutus, Othello, and Master Walter. This was from April 29 to May 4, 1884. The will of John E. McCullough proved that he was worth ;^28,ooo. His widow died at Philadel- phia in July, 1888. A monument to his memory was unveiled at Mount Moriah cemetery, near Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1888. It represents in bronze McCullough as Virginius. On the face of the base is a design of crossed foils and fasces of the Roman lictors with the masks representing Tragedy and Comedy. It cost $2, 200, and the total cost of the monument and grounds was 589,300. The inscriptions upon the monument are as follows :
His life was gentle, and 'the elements
So mixed in him, that Nature might stand up
And say to all the world : " This was a man."
Manliness and weakness in him were so allied that they who judged him by his strength or weakness saw but a single side.
Erected to the memory of the eminent tragedian, John E. McCullough, by his friends John W. Mackey, William H. Thomson, William M. Conner, William F. Johnson, John B. Carson, W. J. Florence, Mary Anderson, and others.
Henry Irving and company reappeared March 31 in "Much Ado About Nothing." April 22, "Louis XI.;" April 23, 24, "The Merchant of Venice;" April 25, "Charles I.;" April 26,
Z884l]
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the trial scene from "The Merchant of Venice," fourth act of "Louis XL," third act of "Charles I.," and fourth act of "Much Ado About Nothing," with Irving in all these plays, and his en- gagement closed. Mme. Janauschek came April 28 for two weeks. " Zillah, the Hebrew Mother " was the opening piece, and her com- pany was: Geo. D. Chaplin, Jas. H. Taylor, Ogden Stevens, Henrietta Irving, Lavinia Shannon, Alex H. Stuart, Joseph Adelman, Giles Shine, Louis Bresn, Frank McDonald, Geo. Conner, Emmie Wilmot, Virginia Brooks, and Evelyn Cooke. Janauschek acted Lady Dedlock in "Bleak House" May 5 and all the week.
"The Pulse of New York," by R. G. Morris, had its first per- formance May 10, and the cast was :
Fanny Gainsborough Walter Harding, Jr. . Walter Harding, Sr. Charles Howard . . Hannibal Pinetop . Van Renssalaer . . Mr. Minthorne . . Inspector Barnes Sergeant O'Malley . Adelina Murphy > Kitty McGonigle J * Judge Brandenburg - Clerk Toppins . . Doorman Mahone .
. Caroline Hill
. A. S. Lipman
Edw. S. Coleman
. L. F. Massen
Frank Lane
. Henry Tarbon
W. L. Denison
Geo. Clarke
. H. D. Clifton
Ada Deaves
. Max Freeman
Edw. Pancoast
. Frank Green
Edward Golden Tramp . . . Joe Simpson . Martin Adams Youth . . . Pete .... Turnkey Farr . Lucy Golden . Thomas Smith Peter Hannock Patrolman . . Mrs. Friery Crier Hogan . Deputy Feilly -
Gerald Eyre
. Nick Long
Fred'k Barry
Oscar Todd
John March
. Chas. Frew
. Rich. Fox
. Viola Allen
Jas. Maxwell
J. C. Arnold
Stanley Macy
. Lida Lacy
Geo. Mathews
. Wm. Rose
Edward H. Sothern appeared May 26 in a farce called " Whose Are They? " which had this cast :
Theophilus Pocklinton
Melchisidec Flighty, Peter Maudlin . .
Joseph Haworth Edward Sothern . J. R. Shewell
Gertie Mooney Amelia . . . Mrs. Griffin . Seraphina . .
. Lizzie Jeremy
Eva Sothern
Annie Douglas
Eva Barrington
A matinee performance took place May 29 for the benefit of Professor Goldberg, the magician, when "Leah, the Forsaken" was acted, with this cast:
Lorenz Thomas Morris
Pastor Geo. Jordan
Peter Gus Reynolds
Abraham .... John Matthews Little Leah . . . Tommy Russell
Reuben Walter Bronson
Schoolmaster . . J. Winston Murray
Joseph Arthur Forrest
Leah Sara Neville
Anna Anna Boyle
Martha .... Mrs. Geo. Jordan A Jewess .... Marie Hilforde Rose Bettie Frobescher
Aug. 18 the spectacle "Sieba" was produced in elaborate style, and with this cast :
3IO A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D885
Sieba Odette. Tyler
Puck Vernona Jarbeau
Sybilla Amy Lee
Savanta Olga Brandon
Electra Ethel Brandon
Theora .... Mrs. Selden Irwin
Prince Harold . . A. S. Lipman Countess Ruperta . Emmie Wilmot Nicodemus ... M. A. Kennedy
Cadmo John Jack
Surtur .... Frank Tannehill, Jr.
The Cambaggio-Sieni Italian opera company opened Oct. 21 for two weeks. Henry Irving returned with Ellen Terry and his company Nov. 10 in "The Merchant of Venice; " Oct. 13, "Much Ado About Nothing;" Oct. 15, "Louis XI.;" Oct. 17, "The Lyons Mail;" Oct. 18, for the first time in New York, "Twelfth Night ; " Oct. 26, first time in this city, " Hamlet ; " Dec. 4, " Shy- lock;" Dec. 5, "Charles I.;" Dec. 6 Irving closed. Charlotte Thompson appeared Dec. 8 in "Jane Eyre," and Dec. 10, "East Lynne;" Adelaide Ristori opened Dec. 22 in "Elizabeth," the cast of which was:
Elizabeth .... Adelaide Ristori Lady Sarah Howard, Augusta Foster Lady Anna Burleigh, Marion P. Clifton Marquis . . . G, Herbert Leonard Sir Francis Drake . Walter C. Kelly
Lord Hudson Robert . . James VI. . Cecil . . . Lord Howard
Walter Granville
Edmund Tearle
Ivan Shirley
. Louis Grissel
. John A. Lane
"Mary Stuart" was played Dec. 28 and "Marie Antoinette" Dec. 29. Jan. 5, 1885, Lawrence P. Barrett reappeared in "Julius Caesar," which had this cast:
Cassius Lawrence Barrett
Brutus Louis James
Marc Antony . . . . F. C. Mosley Julius Caesar . . . . S. E. Springer
Decius Chas. M. Collins
Casca Ben G. Rogers
Titinius . . . Trebonius . . Octavius Caesar Popilius Lenas Portia . . . Calphurnia
. . James Watson J. M. Sturgeon Charles Hawthorne . . Percy Winter Marie Wainwright . . Minnie Monk
"A Blot on the 'Scutcheon," by the poet Robert Browning, was first acted in this city Feb. 9; also "The King's Pleasure," an adaptation by Alfred Thompson, for the first time in America. Mr. and Mrs. Wm. J. Florence came Feb. 16 in "Our Governor":
Pinto Perkins . . W. J. Florence Victor Newman . . . T. L. Coleman Hon. Beverly Outram . Earle Stirling Robert King . . . Davenport Bebus Miss Matilda Starr Mrs. W. J. Florence
Emma Kingsley . . Mrs. Munro Jennings
Stella Perkins
Hattie Russell
Nellie Fitzpatrick Minnie Radcliffe
Henry Irving and company reappeared March 9 in "Eugene Aram" — first time in New York, Irving in the title r61e, and Ellen Terry as Ruth Meadows.
Mary Chippendale, the first old woman of Irving's company, died in London, Eng., May 26, 1888. This lady was the second wife
I88s:
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of W. H. Chippendale. Helen Dauvray, whose right name is Ida Louisa Gibson, appeared April 27 in "Mona," adapted from a novel called "Mrs. Geoffrey." It had this cast:
Paul Rodney . . . Frederick Bryton
Arthur Broome . . C. P. Flockton
Geoffray Rodney, Clarence Handyside
Frank Rodney . . . Hart Conway
KnoUy Cameron . . . E. H. Sothern
Job Sterling . . . Charles Rosene
Violet Cameron . . Leonora Bradley
James Luke Martin
I. Nobles J. B. HoUis
Lady Rodney Ida Vernon
Baines Ada Oilman
Lady Mona . . . Helen Dauvray
Helen Dauvray's first appearance on the stage was as Eva in "Uncle Tom's Cabin," at Maguire's Opera House, San Francisco, Cal. She afterwards played Topsy to John E. McCullough's Uncle Tom. She afterwards travelled as a star and was known as " Little Nell, the California Diamond. "
A benefit given to Gustavus Levick and Eben Plympton, March
13-
The forum scene from "Julius Cassar " was done:
Brutus . . Marc Antony
E. Plympton 1 First Citizen T. W. Keene I
Ben Maginley
The following ladies and gentlemen appeared as citizens : Edwin Thorn e, Fred Bryton, Ben Ringgold, J. W. Norton, A. S. Lipman, John Matthews, Harry Lacy, Alex Salvini, John Mitchell, Kate Forsyth, Selina Dolaro, and Louisa Eldridge.
This was followed by the comedietta, "Reading a Tragedy," written for Mme. Dolaro:
Edith De Lisle . . . Selina Dolaro
Jane Annie EUsler
Arthur Brown, F, McCuUough Ross
Doctor Smith .... Harry Clarke Mr. Jones J. W. Pigott
This was succeeded by the third act of " King Lear " :
King Lear Fool . .
. Geo. Edgar I Edgar Eben Plympton
Chas. Coote Duke of Gloster .... Frank Rea
A scene from " The Hunchback " came next, with Kate Forsyth as Helen and W. J. Ferguson as Modus, and finished the pro- gramme. F. McCullough Ross died in New York Aug. 21, 1890.
A Mexican band of musicians called the Typical Orchestra commenced June ig, but was a failure. Adelaide Moore rented the house for two weeks, and appeared as Juliet June 17, with Atkins Lawrence as Romeo and Joseph Wheelock as Mercutio; "The Hunchback" was given, Atkins Lawrence as Sir Thomas Clifford, Loduski Young as Helen, and Adelaide Moore as Julia; " As You Like It " was played June 27, with this cast :
312 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsss
Orlando Adam Oliver . Le Beau Celia Audrey . Rosalind
. Atkins Lawrence W. J. Constantine . . Fred G. Ross Walter Eytinge Loduski Young . . Effie Germon . Adelaide Moore
Jacques . . . Duke in Exile . Touchstone Amiens . . . Corin . . , Phoebe . . .
. . E. L. Tilton G. H. Leonard . . Chas. Stanley . . . Jas. Dunn Fred Chippendale . Josephine Bailey
Robson and Crane began a season Sept. 7, 1885, with "The Comedy of Errors," which had this cast:
Dromio of Syracuse . Stuart Robson Dromio of Ephesus . . W. H. Crane Antipholus of Ephesus . Wm. Harris Antipholus of Syracuse
Clarence Handyside
Solinus C. H. Riegel
yEgeon .... Chas. B. Hanford Angelo .... Harry A. Langdon Balthazar Wm. Haworth
Doct. Pinch Officer . Cleon Adriana . Luciana Phryne . Emilia . Blousabella
Wm. H. Young . George Clare . Chas. Wilton . Selina Fetter Kate McKinstry Carrie Reynolds Annie Douglas Mrs. F. C. Wells
Mary Anderson reappeared in America Oct. 12 as Rosalind in "As You Like It." J. Forbes Robertson as Orlando; Henry Vernon, F. H. Macklin, Zeffie Tilbury, Sidney Harris, Arthur Lewis, Mrs. John Billington, F. A. Gaytie, T. C. Bindloss, Kenneth Black, C. Stewart, I. Gillespie, and H. Salisbury all made their American debut on this occasion. Gilbert's "Comedy and Tragedy " was acted Oct. 22 for the first time in America by Mary Anderson and her company ; " Pygmalion and Galatea " was played the same night, and had this cast :
Pygmalion Leucippe Chrysos Mimos . Agesimos
J. Forbes Robertson . . Jos. Anderson . . J. G. Taylor • . Arthur Lewis . Rudolph Strong I
Cynisca Zeffie Tilbury
Daphne .... Mrs. J. Billington
Myrine Miss M. Ayrton
Galatea Mary Anderson
"As You Like It" was played Oct. 31 and Nov. 6; Nov. 2, 3, 4, 7, " The Lady of Lyons ; " Nov. 5, and matinee, Nov. 7, " Pygma- lion and Galatea," and "Tragedy and Comedy." The house was closed Nov. 10 for a dress and scenic rehearsal of " Romeo and Juliet," produced Nov. 11, and played two weeks.
Frederick Mitterwurzer, an actor of much distinction in Ger- many, and a fellow player of Sonnenthal in the Imperial Theatre at Vienna, made his American debut Nov. 23 under the manage- ment of Gustav Amberg, and was supported by the dramatic divi- sion of the Thalia Theatre's forces. Herr Mitterwurzer appeared in the one-act play, "Tabarin," the one-act comedy by Bernstein, " Mein Neuer Hut " (" My New Hat "), and the farce by Pulitz, called " Das Schwert des Damocles " (" The Sword of Damocles ").
The Russian drama "Iwan," by B. Alexegew, was played Nov.
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24, 25, 28, for the first time in this country, Herr Mitterwurzer appearing as Iwan Prokopowitsch ; Nov. 26, 27, 28, " Kean ; " Nov. 30 and all the week, " Die Leibrente. " McCauU's " Black Hussar " company opened a four weeks' engagement Dec. 7. Mark Smith sang Friedrich; Geo. C. Boniface, Jr., Piffkow; Lilly Post, Minna; Marie Jansen, Rosetta; and Mme. Mathilde Cottrelly, Barbara.
Modjeska appeared Jan. 4, 1886, in "Camille," when E. H. Vanderfelt made his New York debut as Armand. " Marie Stuart " was acted Jan. 5 for the first time in this city, by Modjeska ; Jan. 6, 7, 9, " As You Like It ; " Jan. 8, " Mary Stuart ; " matinee Jan. 9, "Camille." Modjeska appeared Jan. 11, in " Adrienne Lecou- vreur;" Jan. 12 and 13, "Mary Stuart;" Jan^ 14, "Donna Diana," for the first time. She used Westland Marston's version of the old Spanish comedy by Moreto. It had this cast:
Donna Diana Modjeska
Don Caesar . . . E. H. Vanderfelt
Perin Frank Clements
Don Gaston .... James Cooper Don Luis .... L. J. Henderson
Don Diego Donna Fenisa Donna Laura . Floretta . .
ErroU Dunbar
Evelyn Shaw
Daisy Dorr
Kitty Wilson
Modjeska also played in "Twelfth Night" and "Odette," which closed her engagement Jan. 30. Frank Clements was killed by being run over by a railway train at Newark, N. J., May 8, 1886.
Lawrence Barrett and company opened Feb. i in "Hernani," which was acted until Feb. 17, when "Francesca da Rimini" was done. A matinee performance Feb. 18, of "As You Like It," with Modjeska and company, was for the benefit of the Polish exiles. "Julius Caesar" was played by Barrett and company Feb. 22 with Barrett as Cassius and W. E. Sheridan (specially en- gaged) as Brutus; Feb. 25, "The King's Pleasure " and "The Wonder;" Feb. 26, "Yorick's Love" and "David Garrick;" matinee, Feb. 27, "Hernani;" evening, Feb. 27, "Julius Caesar." Mme. Judic and company opened March 2 in " La Femme a Papa ; " March 3, " La Grande Duchesse ; " March 4, " La Cosaque ; " March 5, "La Mascotte;" matinee, March 6, "La Grande Duch- esse;" and evening, March 6, "Divorgons."
The "Guv' nor" March 8 was revived for one week by the Wal- lack's Theatre company, with this cast:
Theodore Macclesfield Butterscotch Freddy . . Theodore . MacToddy Jellicoe . .
Cab Dnver Mrs. Macclesfield
. Wm. Elton
John Gilbert
. George Clarke
, Fred Corbett
, . C. E. Edwin
Harry Gwynette
Roland Buckstone
. James Holbroke
, . . Mary Hill
Cantle Edward White
VuUem W. H. Pope
Ullage W. L. Dennison
Gunnel E. A. Bigelow
Carrie Theresa Butler
Kate Kate Bartlett
Aurelia Josephine Bailey
Barbara Lillie Walter
Susan Miss Mathews
314 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1886
Boucicault's comedy, "The Jilt, or. Thundercloud's Year," was seen March 15 — first time in this city, and had this cast:
. . Helen Bancroft Mrs. M. A. Pennoyer . . John P. Sutton . . Mary E. Barker . . . Bijou Heron
Myles O'Hara . . Dion Boucicault Lady Millicent
Sir Budleigh Woodstock, Henry Miller Mrs. Pincott .
Lord Marcus Wylie . . F. M. Burbeck Colonel Tudor
Mr. James Daisy . . Frank Wright Mrs. Welter .
Rev. Mr. Spooner Donald Robertson Phyllis Welter Kitty Woodstock . Louise Thorndyke
The farewell appearances in America of Mme. Judic commenced April 5 and continued for two weeks, and her repertory was : April S, "La Belle Hdlene;" April 6, "La Roussotte " (first time in America); April 7, "La P6richole;" April 8, "Niniche;" April 9, "La Mascotte;" matinee, April 10, "La Belle H61^ne;" evening, April 10, "La Cosaque;" April 12, "La Vie Parisi- enne;" April 13, "La FemmeaPapa;" April 14, "Divorgons;" April 15, for the benefit of A. Durand, the business manager, "La Grande Duchesse," and the monologue, "Clary vs. Clary;" April 16, for the benefit of Judic the second act of "Lili," the one-act operetta, "Josephine," and the second act of " La Femme a Papa; " matinee, April 17, "La Perichole," and Judic closed her unprofit- able engagement evening of April 17 with "La Jolie Parfumeuse." Judic was brought to this country by Maurice Grau, and pecuni- arily she was a failure, but artistically a great success. She was not only a very great artist, but one of the most delightful of ac- tresses ever heard on the American stage. Her manner was re- fined, and her voice sweet, cl^ar, and well modulated.
Dion Boucicault returned April 19 in "The Jilt." Fanny Davenport followed April 26 in "Fedora," with this cast:
Loris Ipanoff . . . . R. B. Mantell Gretch .... Eugene O. Jepson Jean .... Melbourne McDowell Doctor's Assistant ... A. Aktar The Swiss R. F. Loom
Dimtri . Baroness Nicolas . Cyrille . TichbefF
. . Nettie Irving . . Alma Aiken Sheldon Kinnecon . . W. J. Hurley Frank Willard
Dr. Loreck K. Sheldon
Dr. MuUer E. Pembroke
Basile J. Williams
Ivan P. Drake
Marka Jennie Shore
Fedora Fanny Davenport
Mons. Rouvrel . . Frank McDonald Countess Olga . . . Marie Sheldon Mme. De Fourne, Miss A. V. Kindrop Desire . . . Edgar L. Davenport
May 10 W. S. Gilbert's burlesque comedy "Engaged" was pro- duced, and thus cast :
Agnes Herndon Ethel Douglas John Matthews
Belinda . . . Mrs. McFarlane Symperson . .
Cheviot Hill .... Cedric Hope
Minnie Alice Butler
Maggie Addie Cummings
Belvawney Henry Dalton
Mary Anderson began an engagement May 17 in "Pygmalion and Galatea," and "Comedy and Tragedy;" May 18, 20, "Ingo-
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315
mar;" May 19 and matinee, May 22, "The Lady of Lyons;" May 21, "As You Like It;" May 22, "Pygmalion and Galatea." May 31 Harry Edwards took a benefit. June 3 a benefit was given to the widow and children of the late Bartley Campbell, dramatist, under the auspices of B. P. O. Elks and the Actors' Fund. The entertainment consisted of the Japanese scene from "The Little Tycoon," Myra Goodwin in specialty, Helen Hooker (first appear- ance in New York) and C. G. Craig in "Ingomar," W. J. Scanlan in Irish songs, a party of "Coon Jubilee" singers, Frank Mayo and company in the second act of "Nordeck," W. Henry Rice in burlesque ballads, Mrs. D. P. Bowers and company in " Elizabeth " (first act), F. F. McNish in "Silent Fun," and the second act "The Whiteslave."
On June 24, Millocker's opera, "The Maid of Belleville," for the first time in English, was advertised with Mile. Aimee (first ap- pearance in English opera) as the star. George W. Lederer and Charles Byrne were the managers. As this lady was under con- tract to Simmonds & Brown for the season of 1886-87, ^^'^ was to open her season in this city, those gentlemen refused to allow her to appear, and the consequence was that Roberta Crawford ap- peared in the r61e announced for Aimee. In it Frank David made his New York d6but; the opera was a failure. The orchestration was bad, the chorus was weak, save as to numbers, and only one or two of the principals sang well. Charles J. Gould and Berry Jarrett took a benefit Sunday evening, Aug. 15. Lester & Allen's minstrels commenced Aug. 16. Lawrence Barrett's company ap- peared in " Yorick's Love," Aug. 30, with this cast:
|
Master Yorick . . |
Lawrence Barrett |
Thomas . . . |
. . J. M. Sturgeon |
|
Master Heyward . |
- Newton Gotthold |
Philip . . . |
. . . J. L. Finney |
|
Master Edmund . |
Charles Welles |
Tobias . . . |
. . Kendall Weston |
|
Master Walton . . |
S. E. Springer |
Alice .... |
. . Minna K. Gale |
|
Master Woodford |
Chas. M. Collins |
Dorothy . . |
. . Miriam O'Leary |
|
Gregory .... |
. Ben. Rogers |
Sept. 2 Barrett acted " Richelieu ; " Sept. 3, "Hamlet;" matinee, Sept. 4, "Yorick's Love;" eyening, "Julius Caesar;" Sept. 6, 7, and matinee, Sept. 11, "Francesca da Rimini;" Sept. 8, "Ham- let;" Sept. 10, II, "The Merchant of Venice" and "David Gar- rick;" Sept. 13, 14, IS, 16, and matinee, Sept. 18, "Harebell, or the Man o' Airlie;" Sept. 17, "Yorick's Love" and "David Gar- rick;" evening, Sept. 18, "Richard III. ;" Sept. 20, "Richelieu;" Sept. 21, "The Merchant of Venice " and' "The King's Pleasure; " Sept. 22, and matinee, Sept. 25, "Francesca da Rimini;" Sept. 23, " Julius Cassar ; " Sept. 24, " Hamlet. " The Barrett company closed Sept. 25 with "Yorick's Love" and "David Garrick." Genevieve Ward appeared here Sept. 27 in "The Queen's Favorite":
3l6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [isss
Henry St. John Queen Anne . Officer . . ,
W. H. Vernon
Gertrude Kellogg
, . Percy Winter
Duchess .... Genevieve Ward
Marquis John Wilks
Abigail Eleanor Tyndale
This was Mr. Vernon's and Eleanor Tyndale's American debut. Genevieve Ward was formerly known as Genevra Guerrabella, a popular opera singer. Since 1873 she has been on the dramatic stage. "The Queen's Favorite" was an adaptation of Scribe's "Le Verre d'Eau." "Forget Me Not" was produced by Miss Ward Oct. 4, with this cast:
Prince Maleotti Alice Verney . Horace Welby Barratto . . .
J. W. Summers
Eleanor Tyndale
W. H. Vernon
. D. G. English
Porter Mr. Edwards
Stephanie .... Genevieve Ward
Servant Percy Winter
Mrs. Foley . . . Gertrude Kellogg
Wilson Barrett made his American d^but Oct. 11, in ' supported by his English company. The cast was :
Claudian,"
CHARACTERS IN THE PROLOGUE:
Claudian The Holy Theorus . Zosimus Therena Volpas .
Wilson Barrett
Charles Fulton
H. Cooper-ClifFe
A. H. Bernage
. Alice Belmore
Langley Russell
Symachus S. M. Carson
Sesiphon W. A. Elliott
Demos H. Evans
Caris Evelyn Howard
Captain of the Scythians, Mr. Aubrey
CHARACTERS IN THE PLAY:
Claudian Andiates . Wilson Barrett Officer of the Herculeans, G. Maxwell Goths of the Tetrarch's Guards
Howard and Belton
Almida Miss Eastlake
Alcardes .... Austin Melford
Belos George Barrett
Eddessa Lily Belmore
Threne Miss Medway
Clia Miss Thompson
Galena Alice Cooke
Thareogalus .... Chas. Hudson
Agaziel J. H. Clynds
Rhamantes Warren
Hera Lila Garth
Sabella Miss Woode
Gratia ...... Miss Wilde
Cloris Mr. Percyval
The prices of admission were raised to: Orchestra seats and front rows of the balcony, $2; a portion of the gallery, $1. At nine o'clock the speculators were offering those seats at less than half price. Mr. Barrett saw spaces in the house every night dur- ing his first week, which ended Oct. 16. One actor in the cast — Charles Hudson — astonished some and incensed others of the audi- ence because he strongly suggested Henry Irving in his voice, gait, and actions. Hisses finally broke forth, not because the man was incompetent, but rather because it seemed to be understood by the house fhat his imitation purposely sought to ridicule Mr. Irving. This demonstration of disapproval was renewed Tuesday night. A special matinee of " Claudian " was given Oct. 20, the proceeds of which went to the Charleston, S. C, sufferers. Barrett's three
1886]
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317
weeks' engagement terminated Oct. 30. Matinee 30, " The Color Sergeant," "A Clerical Error," and "Chatterton" formed the pro- gramme. For the evening, " Claudian " was acted for the farewell of Mr. Barrett.
Considerable talk was caused by the "wonderful" earthquake scene in "Claudian," as if it had never before been witnessed in this country. It was much better done many years ago at the Old, Bowery Theatre and by Bartley Campbell in his play " Clio." This " sensation " was introduced four centuries ago by the Italians — in 1480. They had intricate machinery for the simulation of such phenomena as thunderbolts, earthquakes, falling stars, and angels descending in clouds. As early as 1692, the first attempt in Eng- land to mimic an earthquake was made at Southwark, London. Early in December, 1828, Fitzball's melodrama of "The Earth- quake, or the Phantom of the Nile," was produced at the Adelphi Theatre, London. It was founded on Moore's strange tale of "The Epicureans," which bears a remarkable resemblance in general structure to "She." In fact, Rider Haggard has been accused of plagiarism in writing his novel. About the first stage earthquake ever witnessed in England, however, was at Covent Garden Theatre, London, in 18 12, in Reynolds' opera of "The Virgin of the Sun." The walls and columns of the temple scene in the first act were arranged in cubical forms, and when thrown down by the violent agitation of the ground rolled over the boards with the illusion of solidity.
Edwin Booth appeared Nov. 3, with the following company: Charles Barron, John T. Malone, Carl Ahrendt, John T. Sullivan, Chas. Hanford, H. C. Barton, Edwin Royle, Chas. Abbe, John Doud, F. K. Harte, J. Brown, Thos. L. Coleman, Walter Thomas, Owen S. Fawcett, L. J. Henderson, Volney Streamer, Mrs. Augusta Foster, Emma Vaders, and Kate Maloney. " Hamlet " was the opening play, with this cast:
Hamlet Edwin Booth
Ghost Charles Barron
Ophelia Emma Vaders
Bernardo .... Francis K. Harte
Osric C. S. Abbe
Polonius Carl Ahrendt
Laertes John T. Sullivan
King Claudius .... J. T. Malone
Horatio . . Rosencrantz Guildenstern Marcellus . First Actor Queen Gertrude Player Queen . First Gravedigger
Chas. B. Hanford . . H. C. Barton . . E. M. Royle . . . John Doud
Thos. L. Coleman . Augusta Foster . . Kate Maloney . . O. S. Fawcett
The prices of admission were not advanced, the best seats being 1^1.50, fifty cents less than for Wilson Barrett and ;^i.So less than for Irving. Nov. 6 "The Fool's Revenge " was presented. Booth did not appear the second week after Monday night. His inabil- ity to act was announced late on the afternoon of Tuesday, when a physician's certificate was sent out to the press. Booth reappeared
31 8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cissy
Florus W. D. Ingram
Enomaus T. F. McCabe
Gellius Harry Willard
Centurion G. D. Farnum
Scropha E. W. Hillard
Artificer P. A. Clinton
Child Master Dinnie
The Fighting Gaul . Wm. Muldoon
Nov. 15, acting lago in "Othello;" Nov. 18, 20, "Richelieu;" Nov. 23, 26, "Fool's Revenge;" Nov. 24-27, "Merchant of Venice " and " Taming of the Shrew ; " matinee, Nov. 27, as lago.
Joseph Jefferson began an engagement Nov. 29, in "Rip Van Winkle." In his company were Edwin Varrey, Geo. W. Den- ham, Lin Hurst, Geo. W. Lynch, Joseph Warren, Lizzie Hudson, Gertie Foster, Bessie Leslie, Charlie Duval, James McCann, W.^ A. Whitecar, May Woolcott, and Dora Leslie. Dec. 13, "Cricket on the Hearth " and " Lend Me Five Shillings " were acted, with Jefferson as Caleb Plummer in the first play and Golightly in the other. Robert Downing made his New York debut as a star Dec. 20, as Spartacus in "The Gladiator," which had this cast:
Spartacus R. Downing
Phasarius .... Henry Aveling
Crassus Frank Lane
Bracchius .... John Swinburne
Lentulus Chas. Nevins
Jovius Royal Roche
Senona Mittens Willett
Julia Gail Forrest
Crixus L. A. Wagenhalls
Lillian Olcott appeared here Jan. 3, 1887, as the heroine in Sardou's "Theodora." J. H. Gilmour played Andreas. John Howson took a benefit matinee, Jan. 13, and the programme was composed of songs by Ada Melrose, Willis Sweatnam in a negro act, Fred Warde and company in the forum scene from "Vir- ginius," recitation by Helen Marr, assault at arms by Alex. Sal- vini and Mens. Regis Senac, N. C. Goodwin and company in the first act of "Turned Up," violin solo by Michael Banner; Francis Wilson and Mark Smith in the Thieves' Duet from "Erminie," the idyllic play "The Violin Maker of Cremona," for the first time in this city, acted by Hudson Liston, J. H. Gilmour, Marie Jansen, and John Howson; imitations of actors, by John M. Young; the pool scene from "The O'Reagans," with John Wild and mem- bers of Harrigan's company; song by Victor Dangon; the curse scene from "Deborah," by Sarah Neville; and Frank Richmond in cowboy stories.
John Howson died suddenly at Troy, N. Y., Dec. 16, 1887. He was born at Hobart Town, Tasmania, Nov. 17, 1844. In 1864, he, two sisters (Emma and Clelia), and his brother (Frank), came to the United States, and travelled as the Howson Family. The company disbanded in San Francisco about 1866. In 1872 he came to this city to play in "Mimi," at this theatre (then Wal- lack's). In 1883 he joined Lester Wallack's stock company, remaining two seasons. At the time of his death he was with Lotta's travelling company
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Jan. 17 "Indiana" was given for the first time in New York, when the John A. McCaull company opened a season of comic opera. This was the cast:
Nan ....
Maud . . . Matt o' the Mill Lord Dayrell . Philip Jervaux . Sir Mulbery MuUit Annette ....
Annie Meyers Adine Drew . DigbyBell . Geo. Olmi
E. W. Hoff . Ellis Ryse
Ida Eissing
Madge Celie Eissing
FoUiet C. Blanchard
Cosmo G. HoUingsworth
Indiana Greyfaunt . . . Lilly Post Lady Prue .... Laura Joyce Bell Capt. Hazzard . . . Bessie Fairbairn
The second annual benefit concert in aid of the Sick Relief Fund of United Council American Legion of Honor took place Jan. 30. Salsbury's Troubadours appeared here Feb. 7, in "The Humming Bird," acted for the first time in this city. The cast was:
Sally Nellie McHenry
Fanny Leonora Bradley
Matilda Marie Beckel
Biddy Emma Gilbert
Joseph Brass . . . Nate Salsbury Honeymoon .... Geo. Backus
Rackett John Webster
McLaughlin F. B. Blair
Tramp F. Bowman
Feb. 28 was the first production here of the opera "Lorraine," by the McCaull Opera company. Sig. Perugini gave way to a bad cold, and retired after night of March 3, Herndon Morsell singing his r61e the rest of the week, and E. T. Steyne (stage manager) taking Mr. Morsell's part. Gertrude Griswold (the Madelaine), also on account of illness, was out of the cast after March i. Josie Knapp sang the Madelaine r61e March 2. On March 3 Alida Varna, from McCaull's "Black Hussar" company, took the part. " Lorraine " was first produced by this company at Chicago.
Sarah Bernhardt, after an absence of six years, reappeared in this city March 14 in "Fedora;" March 15, 19, matinee, March 26, "La Dame aux Camelias;" March 16, 18, matinees, March 19, 22, "Fedora;" March 17, 23, "Frou Frou;" March 21, "Le MaJtre de Forges ; " special matinee, March 24, " Fedora ; " even- ing, March 24, "Adrienne Lecouvreur;" March 25, "Fedora;" evening, March 26, "Le MaJtre de Forges;" March 28, "Theo- dora." April 4 Wilson Barrett commenced a return engagement in " Hamlet," which he repeated April 5. " Clito " was done April 6 for the first time here; April 13, 14, "Claudian;" April 15 and matinee, April 16, "Hamlet;" evening, April 16, "The Lady of Lyons." Dion Boucicault appeared April 18 with "Kerry" and "Fin MacCool." His company consisted of Louise Thorndyke, Julia Stuart, J. C. Padgett, Fred Corbett, H. J. Lethcourt, l5ion Boucicault, Georgia Cayvan, Helen Bancroft, Lulu Pendleton, W. J. Ferguson, Dan Maguinnis, Fritz Williams, Walter Treville, Herbert Colby, Joseph W. Walsh, Marion Elmore, and Mary
320 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1887
Barker. It is doubtful if, in all his New York engagements, Dion Boucicault had ever met with a more discouraging reception from the critics than that which greeted " Fin MacCool " during his opening week. The drama was assailed almost brutally, in at least one instance, and in no case was it received with favor. The audiences naturally were small, and on April 23 the actor changed his bill to "The Jilt." Owing to Boucicault's illness the house was closed the week of April 28. He played the following week in "The Shaughraun."
Charles W. Couldock had a benefit the afternoon of May 10, the fiftieth anniversary of his first appearance on the stage. The programme was as follows: Third act of "Hamlet":
Hamlet . . The Ghost . Polonius Horatio . . Rosencranz . Guildenstern Marcellus .
. Edwin Booth Charles Barron . Carl Ahrendt Charles Hanford . H. C. Barton . Edwin Boyle . . John Doud
Bernardo First Actor . Ophelia . . King Claudius Second Actor Queen Gertrude Player Queen .
. F. K. Harte T. L. Coleman Emma Vaders John T. Malone Walter Thomas Augusta Foster . Kate Malony
The screen scene from " The School for Scandal " : Lady Teazle, Fanny Davenport; Sir Peter Teazle, John Gilbert; Charles Sur- face, R. B. Mantell; Joseph Surface, J. H. Barnes; recitation, Trowbridge's "Vagabonds," C. W. Couldock. The quarrel scene from "Julius Caesar": Cassius, Lawrence Barrett; Brutus, John Malone; Decius, C. M. Collins; Casca, B. G. Rogers; Trebonius, E. Springer; Metellus, K. Weston; Pindarus, J. Albaugh, Jr.; the third act of "The Rivals": Bob Acres, Joseph Jefferson; Sir Lucius O'Trigger, James O'Neill; Captain Absolute, Kyrle Bel- lew; David, G. W. Denham; Mrs. Malaprop, Mrs. John Drew; Lydia Languish, Annie Robe. The prices of admission were: Orchestra and dress circle, reserved seats, $^; family circle, re- served seats, $2; general admission, $1.
May 16 an opera called " The Pyramid " had its first representa- tion on any stage, and with this cast :
Albert Leroy . . . Harry Hilliard William Dodge . . . Paul Arthur
Ramses Frank David
Rhea Addie Cora Reed
Tai Helen Standish
Natasu Rosa Cook
Sabako Ellis Ryse
Sarah Bernhardt returned here June 1 5, appearing as Fedora ; June 16, "Theodora;" matinee, June 17, "Theodora;" night of June 17, "Hernani," in which she acted Dona Sol for the first time in this city.
This house opened under the management of Henry Abbey, John Schoeffel, and Maurice Grau, Aug. 22, with McNish, John- son & Slavin's minstrels. The dramatic season began Aug. 27,
18883
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1887, with Gillette's "Held by the Enemy." French Opera com- pany made their American debut Sept. 19. "Le Grand Mogul," by Audran, was heard for the first time in this country in its original French form. "Fatinitza" was sung Oct. 14, for the first time in this country in French.
Joseph Jefferson appeared Oct. 17 as Bob Acres, in "The Rivals," with Mrs. John Drew as the Mrs. Malaprop.
Henry Irving reappeared in America Nov. 7, in G. W. Wills' version of "Faust," which had this cast:
Faust G. Alexander
Valentine . . . . . . C. Glenney
Frosch Harbury
Bessy Miss Mathews
The Witch of the Kitchen
Thomas Mead
Mephistopheles . . . Henry Irving Martha .... Mrs. Chippendale
Altmayer Haviland
Brander Harvey
Siebel Johnson
Margaret Ellen Terry
The programme for Nov. 12 was "The Bells" and the farce "Jingle," taken from "Pickwick Papers," with this cast:
Alfred Jingle .... Henry Irving
Wardle S. Johnson
Tupman Harbury
Nupkins Wenman
Perker ^ . J. Carter
Sam Weller . . . Martin Harvey Miss Arabella . Miss F. Harwood
Nathaniel Winkle . Augustus Snodgrass Pickwick . Job Trotter Fat Boy Miss Rachel Miss Emily
Mr. Emery Haviland H. Howe Mr. Archer Mr. Gurner Mrs. Pauncefort . Miss Mathews
The last performance of " Faust " by Mr. Irving's company was given Dec. 5. "The Merchant of Venice" was played Dec. 6, 7, 8, 9, and matinee of Dec. 10; night of Dec. 10, "Jingle" and three acts of " Louis XI. " closed the Irving engagement.
Julia Marlowe began an engagement here Dec. 12 in "Romeo and Juliet" :
Romeo Joseph Haworth Nurse .... Elizabeth Andrews
Friar Leslie Allen Mercutio Chas. Norris
Tybalt Howard Kyle Prince Chas. J. Fyffe
Benvolio E. J. Radcliffe Capulet John Sutherland
Peter Geo. Gaston Paris Nestor Lennon
Lady Capulet . . . Blanche Weaver Juliet Julia Marlowe
Miss Marlowe was seen as Parthenia in "Ingomar" Dec. 13, and Viola in " Twelfth Night " Dec. 14. Joseph Haworth acted Mal- volio; Leslie Allen, Sir Toby Belch; Blanche Weaver, Olivia. Mr. and Mrs. William J. Florence returned here Dec. 19 in " Our Governor. "
Frau Hedwig Niemann-Raabe made her American debut Jan. 2, 1888, as Lorle and Lenore in "Dorf und Stadt." Her support in- cluded the following, all save Ottilie Genee making their Ameri- can bow on this occasion : Arthur Meyer, Adolph Meyer, Antonie Ziegler, Auguste Burmester, Julius Metz, Hermann Haak, Hugo
VOL. II. — 21
322 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D888
Ranzenberg, Alexis Schonlank, Gustav Kober, Karl Muller. The same bill was repeated Jan. 3; " Ein Tropfen Gift," Jan. 4, 5; "Cyprienne" (" Divorgons "), Jan. 6, 7, and matinee, Jan. 7; the lady acted "Dora," Jan. 9, 10; Richard Voss' "Alexandra," Jan. II, 12, for the first time in America. This is the German ver- sion of Sardou's drama, known variously in English as "Agnes," "Andrea," "Anselma," and "In Spite of All." Frau Niemann- Raabe closed her engagement Jan. 14. The cast of " Alexandra " was: Frau Prasidentin v. Elberti, Ottilie Genee; Erwin, Hugo Ranzenberg; Alexandra, Hedwig Niemann-Raabe; Dr. Andrea, H. Haak; Anton Moell, Gustav Kober; Bauer Gerland, Moritz Moritz; Frau Lemm, Auguste Burmester. Her engagement may be briefly summed up as a complete artistic success and a financial disappointment to her manager, who was compelled to increase the price of seats owing to his expensive contract with his star.
William Mestayer's company was seen in "Check 44" Jan. 16, and"Francillon," by Alex. Dumas, had its first American hearing Feb. 13: Marquis De Riverolles, Gustav Kober; Lucien, Hugo Ranzenberg; Franziska, Hedwig Niemann-Raabe ; Annette, Lilli Petri ; Stanislas de Grandredon, Hermann Haak ; Henry De Symeur, Alexis Schonlank; Jean De Carillac, Moritz Moritz; Therese Smith, Antonie Ziegler; Colestin, Karl Muller; Ein Anderer Diener, Heinrich Zilzer; Elise, Auguste Burmester; Pinguet, A. Meyer. Hedwig Niemann-Raabe' s return engagement, and her final one in America, opened Feb. 17 with "Die Hagelstolzen " and one act of "Jane Eyre." For her return engagement the best seats were reduced in price to ^1.50. Heinrich Conreid, her manager, made his reappearance on the stage, matinee and even- ing, Feb. 18 (Hedwig Niemann-Raabe having sailed for Germany that day), in the title r61e of " Dr. Klaus" (known in English as "Dr. Clyde," "The Doctor," "Dr. Klaus," etc.). This was his first appearance on the stage since January, 1883.
Henry Irving and company began a five weeks' engagement Feb. 20 in W. G. Wills' "Olivia." This play, which is a dramatiza- tion of Goldsmith's "Vicar of Wakefield," had been done in this city in 1878 by Fanny Davenport and her company. The cast here was:
Dr. Primrose Moses . . Mr. Burchell Sophia . . Squire Thornhill Farmer Flamborough Polly Flamborough .
. Henry Irving
. . Haviland
. . Wenman
Miss D. Harwood
. Alexander
H. Howe
Miss Coleridge
Gypsy Woman . . . Miss Barnett Mrs. Primrose . . Mrs. Pauncefort
Olivia Ellen Terry
Leigh Tyars
Phoebe Miss Mills
Dick Miss M. Holland
"The Lyons Mail" was given Feb. 25-27, with Linda Dietz as Jeannette; March 3, "Olivia;" March 5, "Faust" was revived
1888] THE STAR THEATRE 32
o
and continued up to March 10, when Ellen Terry took a brief rest and "Louis XI." was presented. The Star was one of the few theatres open in this city on what was known as "The Blizzard Night," March 12. Irving and his company paid a visit to West Point afternoon of March 19, 1888, and gave a fully costumed per- formance of " The Merchant of Venice " in the cadets' mess hall of the Military Academy. The Star Theatre was closed that night.
March 24 Mr. Irving closed his engagement with "Olivia," and the company sailed for England after the performance. Mr. Irving did not leave New York until the following week. Henry Irving was at his best in melodrama, for his cunning and rare knowledge of stage artifice enabled him to focus upon himself the strength of his admirably drilled company. As far as his individual methods as an actor go, Mr. Irving is as old-fashioned and conventional as were the players of a half-century ago. The mouthings, the strut- ting, the ranting, the mad tearing of passion into tatters, — are we not familiar with them all, either by hearsay or through the work of some derelict of good old-time tragedy ? Prof. Alexander Herr- mann was the attraction week of April 2.
James Owen O'Connor appeared here April 9 in "Hamlet," hav- ing rented the house for two weeks. This was the New York debut of Jessie Villars as Ophelia, also that of Emmie Young, a daughter of Brigham Young, as the Queen. During the two weeks, O'Connor was seen in the "Marble Heart," "Merchant of Venice," "Riche- lieu," and "Othello," as well as in "Hamlet." His engagement closed April 21. A professional matinee occurred April 19. No stage exhibition that I have seen has possessed all the disagreeable features of the O'Connor engagement. His audiences were almost exclusively composed of males, who were to be amused as the Count Johannes and Dr. Landis once amused this city. They found no excuse too trifling for their merriment, no jest too coarse, no uproar too loud. A dozen or more auditors were ejected by the police at various times. O'Connor's Hamlet was so indescribably bad in speech, action, and appearance that his audience burst into laughter before he had been on the stage five minutes. In his interview with Rosencrantz, he was so absurd that the audience broke through all restraint and the dialogue was lost in peals of laughter. He made a speech to his audience telling them that he would furnish them with a hilariously insane Hamlet if they would give him a chance. This was received with three cheers for O'Connor. His perform- ance of Shylock in "The Merchant of Venice " nearly brought about a riot in the theatre. All through the performance the audience "talked back" to Shylock. Every time the curtain went down, there were torrents of cheers, howls, " cat-calls, " roars, screeches, whistling, and Indian war-whoops. A posse of police stopped the
324 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisss
disturbance for a time. In the trial scene, when Shylock begins to scrape his knife on the floor, Bassanio asks, " Why dost thou whet thy knife so keenly?" A voice in the gallery answered, "He's going to shave off them whiskers," referring to the absurd hirsute ornaments O'Connor wore about his face. He finished the play by making Shylock commit suicide at the end of the trial scene. He was seen in " Hamlet " at the professional matinee. On the night he played "Richelieu," an enthusiastic admirer threw a bouquet of pie-plant upon the stage. The play was stopped short, the curtain rung down, and O'Connor made the following speech :
"I hereby offer a reward of $ioo cash, to be paid behind the scenes, to any person who detects another in the act of throwing missiles upon the stage. I have some dignity as a man, as a lawyer, and as the star of this company. There is nobody in this house that can play Richelieu as well as I can, and yet you deride me. I have a loaded musket behind the scenes which you may force me to use. At the next performance I shall have a sufficient force of policemen behind the scenes to preserve order. You can- not drive me from this theatre." When as Phidias in "The Marble Heart " he fell dead at the end of the first act, some one cried, "No fall; bring an ambulance." On his closing night two large cabbages were thrown at him.
James Owen O'Connor's father was a cousin of Charles O'Connor, the distinguished jurist. There can be no doubt of the fact that some mental derangement induced him to adopt the stage as a profession. He was taken to an insane asylum at Morris Plains, N. J., August 25, 1893, where he died March 31, 1894. His last engagement was in a variety theatre in Jersey City in the winter of 1891. His audience pelted him with decayed fruit and vegetables so unmercifully that he abandoned the stage. At a variety theatre in the West, where he performed, a wire curtain was used to pre- vent his being struck by flying missiles. Two weeks prior to his confinement in the asylum he wandered away from his home and was found in a vacant lot, three-quarters of a mile from the house.
Appropriately enough Brockman's Monkey show followed, April 24, but business was so bad that the house soon closed for the sea- son. Reopened for the season with Johnson & Slavin's minstrels, on Aug. 27. Robert Downing, with his dramatic company, fol- lowed. He played Spartacus in the " Gladiator " Sept. 3, 4, and 8, " Virginius," matinee of Sept. 5 and evening of Sept. 7, and "In- gomar," Sept. 6 and matinee of Sept. 8. "The Paymaster" came Sept. 17 for two weeks. "Zigzag," a musical comedy, came Oct. I. Lydia Thompson, with her burlesque company, opened Oct. 15 in a very weak "sketch," called "Penelope," which had this cast:
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325
Icarius • . . Charles Horace Kenny Agrippa .... Master Fritz James Hermes .... Christine Blessing Philander .... Brenda Harper
Arctos Minnie Sannon
Carthos Vivian Bromley
Nevera Lillie AUiston
Tektoe Louis Kelleher
Glaucus Harry Starr
Ulysses Lydia Thompson
Endymion .... Marie Williams
Penelope Aida Jenoure
Cupid Millie Marion
Daphne Ella Carrington
Glyke .... Florence Brandon
Hamax Rose Newham
Calypso .... Florence Bankhardt Mr. Waiter . Miss Belle Raymond Cymon .... J. Bolton RadclifEe
Gustav Amberg presented his German company in " Mit Fremden Federn," by C. Schoenfeld, Oct. 22 and 23; "Sie Weiss Etwas," Oct. 24 and 25 ; and "Tilli," by F. Stahl, Oct. 26 and 27. Among the American d6buts made were those of Fraulein Herrman, Frau- lein Sandow, Herr Becker, and Herr Schoelermann. " A Midsum- mer Night's Dream " was produced Oct. 29 by John W. Albaugh's travelling company, and had this cast :
Theseus .... William Morris Lysander .... Edw. J. Henley Demetrius .... Chas. H. Sutton
Egeus Adolph Bernard
Oberon Carrie Daniels
Titania Lillie Post
Puck Hattie Harvey
Singing Fairy .... Ada Somers
Flute William Lee
Snout Charles Rosene
Peas Blossom . . Bertie Sutherland
|
Nick Bottom . . |
Edmund D. Lyons |
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Starveling . . |
John H. Mitchell |
|
Philostrate . . |
. Chas. Kaufman |
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Hippolyta . . |
. . Harriet Ford |
|
Hermia . . . |
Minnie Seligman |
|
Helena . . , |
Katharine AlVord |
|
Cobweb . . . |
Louie Stevens |
|
Moth .... |
|
|
Mustard Seed . |
Walter Lewis |
|
. . Ferd. Hight |
|
|
Snug .... |
. . Louis R. Grisel |
This ran two weeks, and was followed Nov. 12 by H. E. Dixey in "Adonis," for two weeks; then came "The Crystal Slipper, or Prince Prettiwitz and Little Cinderella. " The new text was by Capt. Alfred Thompson and Harry B. Smith. The cast: Baron Anthracite, R. E. Graham; Yosemite, Edwin Foy; Cinderella, Marguerite Fish; Prince Prettiwitz, May Yohe; Mardi Gras, Daisy Remsden; Fairy Graciosa, Homie Weldon; and Fiorde- fuma, Topsy Venn. Sig. Novissimo, the ballet master of this company, died in Bellevue Hospital, Aug. 16, 1890. May Yohe retired from the cast after the first night, and the Prince was acted by Mamie Cerbi.
Annie Pixley appeared here Dec. 24 in " The Deacon's Daughter," and "Zara," Dec. 31. The Louis James-Marie Wainwright com- pany came Jan. 7, 1889, with "As You Like It," which had this cast:
Banished Duke . . Erroll Dunbar Duke Frederick . . Harry Leighton
Orlando Louis James
Jaques F. C. Mosley
Adam H. A. Langdon
Oliver H. E. Chase
Touchstone E. Y. Backus
Charles J. M. Laflin
Rosalind . . . Marie Wainwright
Celia Anita Harris
Audrey Kate Meek
Phebe Alma Aiken
326 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D889
This play was repeated Jan. 8, 9; "Virginius" was given Jan. 10-12; "Much Ado About Nothing," Jan. 11, and matinee, Jan. 12, with Marie Wainwright as Beatrice and Louis James as Bene- dick. They were followed Jan. 14 by Fanny Davenport and com- pany in "La Tosca," which was thus cast:
Le Baron Scarpia,
Melbourne MacDowell Mario Cavaradossi,
F. McCullough Ross Cesare Angellotti . Theodore Roberts Schiarone .... Joseph Weldon Le Marquis Attavanti . Bruce Hayes
Vicomte de Trevillac, Arthur A. Lotto Colonetti . . . Jean H. Williams Reine Marie Caroline, Eleanor Merron Princess Orlonia .... May Diel Gennarino .... Marie Merriam
Luciana Olivia Warren
Floria Tosca . . Fanny Davenport
An entertainment was given Sunday evening, Jan. 20, in aid of the Sick Relief Fund of United Council 1,035 Legion of Honor.
John Wild first appeared in this city as a dramatic star Jan. 21 in "Running Wild," which had this cast:
Cardamon Moxie . . Will H. Dietz Dollie Gertrude Fort
D'Oily Float ) t u -iii-u The Lady who does the clean-
Joe King I • • ■ • John Wild ing ..... . St. Geo. Hussey
Barry Cassidy . . Theo. M. Brown Penelope Podd . . . Adele Bray
Daniel Dodge . . . F. M. Kendrick Flora Julia Mackey
The Gentleman who removes Dora Ada Jones
the ashes .... Harry Brinsley L Malone T. B. Butler
The Howard Athenaeum specialty company came Jan. 28 for one week. The Lyceum Theatre company appeared Feb. 4 in "The Wife," by Bilasco and De Mille, which was thus cast:
John Rutherford . Nelson Wheatcroft Matthew Culver . . Henry Hermon Major Homer Q. Putnam,
James O. Barrows John Dexter . . Charles S. Dickson Robert Gray .... Frank Carlyle
Silas Truman .... John Flood Helen Truman . Mrs. Berlan-Gibbs Lucile Ferrant . Adeline Stanhope Mrs. Belamy Ives, Adelaide Thornton
Kitty Ives Hattie Schell
Mrs. Amory .... Eliza Logan
"Later On" was seen Feb. 11, "The Stowaway," Feb. 18; Richard Stahl's comic opera, "Said Pasha," was sung for the first time in this city Feb. 2, and had this cast:
Said Pasha . . . . Francis Gaillard Hassan Bey ... R. N. Dunbar
Hadad Edwin Stevens Terrano Hubert Wilke
Nockey Stanley Felch Rajah .... Jos. Greensfelder
Serena Helen Dingeon Queen Alti .... Carrie Godfrey
Balah Sojah .... Alice Gaillard
"Evangeline" was seen March 11 for two weeks, followed by M. Coquelin for one week, commencing March 25, in " Le Mariage de Figaro;" March 26, "Le Juif Polonais;" matinee, March 27, " Le Mariage de Figaro ; " evening, " Les Surprises du Divorce ; " March 28, " Le Voyage de M. Perrichon " and monologues ; matinee, March 30, "Le Juif Polonais;" evening, "LeGendrede M. Poirier;" for Coquelin's benefit, March 29 "Jean Dacier "
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and "The Silent System" received their first public performances in this country. The cast of the first play was:
Jean Dacier .... M. Coquelin
Berthaut M. Duquesne
Baudru .... M. Jean Coquelin Le Comte M. Abel
De Puylaurens . . . . M. Mayer
Antonia Mme. Kerwich
La Comtesse .... Mme. Patry
In "The Silent System" Coquelin acted wholly in pantomime the part of a henpecked husband who did not even get a chance to utter a word.
M. Coquelin's first American tour closed March 30 with a re- vival of "Le Gendre de M. Poirier."
Rose Coghlan began a two weeks' engagement April i, in "Jocelyn," a play by her brother, Chas. Coghlan, produced for the first time in New York. The cast was:
Louis Xin. . . Chas. F. Gotthold Prince Saviani . . Wilton Lackaye Philip de Boissac . Frank Lander Charles de Boissac, Conway Carpenter Henry de Boissac . Albert Roberts Gaston Marcel . . James E. Wilson
Agenor Harry Gwynette
Marfiso .... Charles W. Morgan
Volatil Albert Roberts
Narcisse . . . Charles E. Edwin
Captain William Ranous
Michael E. Tom Webber
Blaisois Verner Clarges
Mme. de Mortaigne,
Mrs. Charles Watson Jocelyn Rose Coghlan
Mrs. Chas. Watson died in this city May 4, 1889.
Robson and Crane appeared in "The Henrietta," April 15, and closed May 1 1, which was also the date of the termination of their partnership as joint stars. They had been together for twelve years. Ullie Akerstrom made her metropolitan d^but May 13, act- ing in "Annette the Dancing Girl," which had this cast:
Pete Frank Hewitt
Richard James Homer
Cuban Guard ... T. H. Tolway Mrs. Weldon . . . Maggie Harold Madge Hattie Morris
Annette Ullie Akerstrom
Sanford Weldon . . Alfred Hudson Herbert Ashton . . . Frank Lander Dandy Dick . . J. K. Applebee, Jr. Florence Markley . Jennie Nichols
The season of 1889-90 opened Sept. 9 with Theo. Moss as man- ager. Bronson Howard's war play "Shenandoah" was acted for the first time in New York, and was thus cast:
Gen. Haverill . . . Wilton Lackaye Col. Kerchival West . Henry Miller Capt. Heartsease . . Morton Selton Lieut. Frank Bedloe . G. W. Bailey Maj. Gen. Francis Buckthorn,
Harry Harwood Sergt. Barket . . James O. Barrows Col. Robert EUingham,
Lucius Henderson Capt. Thornton . . John E. Kellard Lieut, of Signal Corps . Harry Thorn Lieut, of Infantry . . Geo. Maxwell
Mrs. Constance Haverill, Dorothy Dorr Gertrude EUingham . . . Viola Allen Madeline West . Nanette Comstock Jenny Buckthorn . . . Effie Shannon Mrs. Edith Havferill . Alice B. Haines Hardwick . . . . W. L. Dennison Capt. Lockwood . . . C. C. Brandt Corp. Dunn . . . W. J. Cummings
Benson Wm. Barnes
Old Margery .... Mrs. Haslam Jannette Esther Drew
328 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D890
On Oct. 14 the Jefferson-Florence company appeared in Rivals," with this cast:
'The
Sir Lucius O'Trigger, W. J. Florence Sir Anthony Absolute . Edwin Varrey Captain Absolute . Frederick Paulding Faulkland . . Geo. Frederick Nash Mrs. Malaprop . . Mrs. John Drew
Bob Acres .... Joseph Jefferson David .... Geo. W. Denham
Fag Joseph Warren
Lydia Languish . . . Viola Allen Lucy Agnes Miller
W. J. Scanlan was seen here Nov. 11 in "Myles Aroon." The Redmund-Barry company appeared Dec. 9 in "Herminie;" "Twelve Temptations" was seen for two weeks beginning Dec. 16. A special matinee performance took place Dec. 19 of "A Fair Rebel." On Dec. 30 Fanny Davenport returned with "La Tosca" for a fortnight. William H. Crane produced "The Senator," by David Lloyd, for the first time in this city, Jan. 13, 1890, and with this cast :
Senator Hannibal Rivers,
Alex Armstrong . Count Von Strahl Baron Ling Ching Richard Vance Lieut. Schuyler . Isaiah Sharpless .
William H. Crane George F. Devere . . H. Bergman . . . H. Braham . . James Neill . T. D. Frawley Wra. Herbert
Mabel Denman, Lizzie Hudson Collier Mrs. Schuyler - . . Augusta Foster Mrs. Armstrong . . Jennie Karsner Josie Armstrong . . . Jane Stuart Mrs. Hilary, Georgia Drew Barrymore Silas Denman . . . . J. C. Padgett Erastus .... John J. Gilmartin
Jane Stuart was the daughter of Maurice F. Hollahan, Deputy Commissioner, Department of Public Works of this city. Her first appearance on the stage was made in April, 1886, in the "Lily of Yeddo," at the Criterion Theatre, Brooklyn, N. Y. Her New York d^but was made Oct. 24, 1887, at the Fourteenth Street theatre, as Ernestine in "Baron Rudolph." She next appeared as Sylvaine in "Helene," Oct. 18, 1888. She joined Crane's com- pany at Decatur, 111., in September, 1889, acting Sallie Harmony in "On Probation." During the season of 1891-92 she was in Aug. Pitou's company. She retired from the stage and married Gen. Louis Auer at Milwaukee, Wis., Feb. 25, 1895. On Thurs- day afternoon, Feb. 9, an entertainment was given for the benefit of the Horace Greeley statue fund. "Bill Nye," James Whitcomb Riley, the Courtney Quartet, and others, appeared.
The one hundredth performance of "The Senator" took place April 22 ; Stuart Robson, who was playing " The Henrietta " at Proctor's Twenty-third Street theatre, this city, rode from there to the Star in order to congratulate Mr. Crane. The second act was on when Mr. Robson entered the theatre, but he went down the aisle, mounted the stage, and in a humorous speech, assured Mr. Crane of his delight at the success of "The Senator."
Georgie Drew Barrymore was ill the night of May i, and her place in the cast was filled by Lizzie Hudson Collier, while
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Leonora Bradley played Mabel. Mrs. Barrymore, resumed her part on the afternoon of May 3.
Georgie Emma Drew Barrymore died at Santa Barbara, Cal., July 2, 1893, of consumption. She was the daughter of Mrs. John Drew, and wife of Maurice Barrymore, to whom she was married Dec. 31, 1876.
"The Senator" closed May 10. "The Shatchen," written by Henry Doblin and his brother for Charles S. Dickson, was pro- duced May 12, for the first time in this city. The cast was: Joseph Lewis, Lewis Morrison; Meyer Petowsky, M. B. Curtis; Jack Ransome, Charles Dickson; Leo Lewis, Russ Whytal; James Nickerson, C. F. Montaigne; Edith, Florence Roberts; Alice, Rosabel Morrison; Fanny Morton, Sophie Eyre.
In consequence of the illness of Mr. Morrison, Geo. Osborne acted Joseph Lewis, and Mr. Montaigne, Nickerson, commencing matinee. May 24.
This theatre was the only one that did not give a matinee on Decoration Day, May 30. Lewis Morrison did not appear week ending May 31. Rosabel Morrison retired from the cast May 29, and her r61e was played by Gertrude Dawes. Stanislaus Stange replaced Russ Whytal June 2, and the house closed June 7. It was reopened for a brief season Aug. 4, under the management of Joseph Brooks, with "A Woman of the World," which had this cast:
Mr. Ten Broek Mr. Kavana Mr. Deane . . Miss Prentiss .
. Geo. F. Devere . . Wm. Herbert Livingstone Morse . Lillian Florence
Mrs. Wakefield,
Georgie Drew Barrymore Mr. Wakefield . . . Edwin Bethel Mrs. Copeland Ada Crisp
This was followed by the farcical comedy, "The Balloon," cast thus:
Dr. Glynn .... Robt. Hilliard Dr. Boyton . . . Geo. F. Devere
David Wm. Herbert
Miss Vera Jane Stuart
Mr. Aubrey Fitzjohn (first appear- ance in America) . . Alfred Maltby
Captain Cameron . . . Sidney Drew Policeman . . . John J. Gilmartin Mrs. Ripendale,
Georgie Drew Barrymore Mrs. Fitzjohn . Mrs. Augusta Foster Grace Wentworth, Katharine Florence
The next season began Sept. 8 with Wm. H. Crane as the star, in "The Senator."
A matinee performance was given Sept. 4 for the benefit of the Grand Lodge, B. P. O. Elks. An entertainment the same after- noon took place at the Academy of Music. The result was a great disappointment, as the attendance at both theatres was very bad. The price fixed for orchestra seats, and the best seats in the or- chestra circle and balcony, at the testimonial performances, was
330 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D891
$2.50 each, with an admission charge of $1. One ticket, however, admitted the holder to both the Academy and the Star. Each performance began at one o'clock, and the curtains in both houses were rung up on probably the smallest audiences that ever greeted such elaborate programmes.
At the matinee performance of Nov. 15 W. H. Crane fainted and fell to the stage during the third act. The last act was played with Geo. F. Devere in Crane's r61e. Mr. Crane played that night. " On Probation " had its first New York production matinee, Nov. 19. It was originally acted Sept. 9, 1889, at Decatur, 111. The cast here was :
Jonathan Silsbee . . Wm. H. Crane Maurice Fitzmaurice,
William Harcourt Prince Ivan KaroskofE, T. D. Frawley Senhor Pedro Oliveira, Henry Bergman Dr. Benj. Cox . . . Henry Braham
Eugene William Herbert
Lady Frank Brooke . Hattie Russell Mary Marlowe . . . Esther Lyon Mrs. Harmony, Mrs. Augusta Foster Sadie Harmony . . . Jane Stuart Senhora Oliveira . Katharine Florence
The two-hundredth performance of "The Senator" occurred Nov. 26.
An author's matinee took place Dec. 11, when was produced, for the first time on any stage, three one-act plays — " The Haunted Room " :
Captain Packenham Walsh,
Wilton Lackaye Col. Robert Benton . Henry Bergman
"A Woman":
Peter . . . . Lady Carrolton
George Morrison . . Caroline Hill
Godsend . . . Jennie O'Neil Potter I Edward Livingstone, Henry Bergman John Harper . . . George F. Devere |
" Grimsby's Dilemma " :
Caleb Grimsby Helen . . . Sidney Brown . Dr. Campbell .
. Wra. Herbert
Minnie Palmer
F. L. Sylvester
Louis B. Darling
Wm. Waley . . . Cecil Kingstone
Jane Mrs. Britton
James Geo. Morrison
Mrs. Maraquita Hewitt, who wrote the three plays, was the wife of a well-known newspaper writer of this city. Jennie O'Neill Potter, who made her first appearance on any stage on this occa- sion, was a well-known reader of Western dialect stories, and the niece of James O'Neill, the actor. "The Senator" closed its stay here Jan. 31, 1891.
"Mr. Potter of Texas" was presented, first time in this city, Feb. 2, and had this cast :
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331
The Hon. Sampson Potter,
Frank Mordaunt Baron Lincoln . . . Henry Holland The Hon. Arthur Lincoln,
Hugo Toland The Hon. Teddy Lincoln, Louis Haines B. Sydney Van Cott . . Sidney Drew
Doctor Von Lambrith . Franz Reinau Lady Sarah . . Minnie Seligman
Charlie Errol Ralph Errol Lubbins . . Brackett . . Ethel Lincoln
Louis Massen . King Hedley Thos. Jackson Cecil Kingston . May Haines
Hugo Toland played Sampson Potter; P. S. Reynolds, Brackett; Cecil Kingston, Sir Arthur, Feb. 7. Louis Massen withdrew from the cast Feb. 9, and Charles Errol was played by Clarence Handy- sides. Frank Mordaunt resumed his original r61e Feb. 11, and continued until the closing week, except the matinee of Feb. 14. " Mr. Potter of Texas " was played for the last time evening of Feb. 14.
Henry Holland died at Bellevue Hospital March 26. He was thirty-nine years of age, and an Englishman by birth.
"The Power of the Press," by Geo. Jessop and Aug. Pitou, was seen for the first time on any stage March 16, and had this cast :
Stephen Carson . Turner Morgan . De Witt Norwood Harold Norwood . Sam Freeborn . , Sidney Varian . . Mr. Hosford . . Joe Hawes . . .
. Wilton Lackaye . . Myron Calice . . C. G. Craig . John E. Kellerd . Charles Dickson Lorimer Stoddard William Davidge . . Gus Frankel
Tom Wyatt . . Mike O'Callaghan Mr. Warner Dan . . . Annie Carson May Hosford Julia Seymour
. C. H. Leonard
John Matthews
. . Charles Dade
Josie Wilmere
Minnie Seligman
Madeline Lucette
AdeUne Stanhope
Maximillian . . . William Friend
Wilkins Julian Reed
MoUie .... Genevra Ingersoll
Mabel Edna Wallace
Filbert Roland Reed
Mrs. O'Callaghan, Mrs. John D.Findlay
The play was withdrawn after the forty-ninth performance. "The Envoy" was produced for the first time May 4 with James O'Neill as the star. The next season began Aug. 31, 1891, with Roland Reed in "The Club Friend," for the first time in this city:
Percival George F. Nash
Abraham Oaks . Charles S. Smiley
Evelyn Isadore Rush
Sylvia Percy Haswell
Makepeace . . . William Davidge Margaret . . . Mrs. Mary Myers
Mr. and Mrs. Kendal reappeared in America Oct. 12 in "Still Waters Run Deep " : John Midmay, Kendal ; Captain Hawksley, Mr. Bucklaw; Potter, J. E. Dodson; Dunbilk, A. M. Dennison; Langford, H. Nye Chart; Mrs. Mildmay, Violet Raye; Mrs. Sternhold, Mrs. Kendal. The comedy was originally produced at the Royal Olympic Theatre, London, May 14, 1855, with George Vining as Capt. Hawksley, Alfred Wigan as John Mild- may, Miss Maskell as Mrs. Mildmay, Mrs. Alfred Wigan joined the cast May 28 to play Mrs. Sternhold. It was first seen in America Feb. 10, 1855, at Barnum's Museum this city. Two
332 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsga
evenings after this, it was acted at Burton's Chambers Street theatre. Its next production was at Cincinnati, at the National Theatre, Oct. 15, 1855, with Harry Watkins as John Mildmay, Benj. Maginley as Gimlet, Marcus Elmore as Hawksley, and Mrs. Elmore as Mrs. Mildmay. It was acted at Niblo's Garden, this city, Oct. 13, 1858, with Mr. and Mrs. F. B. Conway as Mr. and Mrs. Mildmay. It was produced at Wallack's Theatre, Oct. 16, 1865, with E. L. Davenport as Hawksley, Charles Fisher as John Mildmay, Mark Smith as Potter, J. C. Williamson as Gimlet, Madelaine Henriques as Mrs. Mildmay, and Fanny Morant as Mrs. Sternhold. Laura Keene produced this comedy at her own theatre, acting Mrs. Sternhold herself, with George Jordan as Hawksley, and Chas. Wheatleigh as John Mildmay.
"Home" was played Oct. 19 with W. H. Kendal as Col. White, and Mrs. Kendal as Mrs. Pinchbeck; A. M. Dennison was to have played Dorrison, but had intermittent fever. " The Iron Master " was given Oct. 26. There was no performance Oct. 27, owing to the sudden death that day of Mr. Dennison. " Still Waters Run Deep " was done Oct. 28 ; "A Scrap of Paper " was played Oct. 29-30, and matinee, Oct. 31. The theatre was closed night of Nov. 2 and reopened Nov. 3, with "Miss Helyett," which had this cast: Paul Grahame, Mark Smith; Todder Bunnythorne, M. A. Kennedy ; Bonnefoy, Gilbert Sarony ; Senora Carmen, Kate Davis; Manuela, Laura Clement; Miss Helyett, Mrs. Leslie Carter. The fiftieth performance occurred Dec. 17. Laura Bellini appeared Dec. 28 as Manuela, and George Lyding was seen Dec. 28 as Shaughnessy. The theatre was closed Jan. 11, 1892, and reopened Jan. 12 with "For Money," for the first time in this city, and with this cast :
Wilfield Farragut Gurney,
William H. Crane
Newton Stow James Neil
Norman Stewart . . . T. D. Frawley Hilton Willard . . Adolph Jackson Mr. Redfern-Bell, George F. Devere Otto Bruning . . . Henry Bergman
Mr. Choate . . . William Herbert Mrs. Rittinghouse-Webb
Hattie Russell Beverly Dale . . Katharine Florence Winona Gurney . . . Anne O'Neill Mrs. Redfern-Bell . Augusta Foster Violet Bell Gladys Wallis
"The American Minister," by Paul M. Potter, was seen for the first time on any stage April 4. The cast :
Major Philpot Wart, William Herbert Pietro di Ferrara, Mr. Joseph Shannon General Cristoforo Colombo,
George F. Devere
Hon. Benjamin Franklin Lawton,
William H. Crane Thomas Jefferson Lawton . Jas. Neil Quincy Adams . . Adolph Jackson Dr. Pierre Carondglet . J. C. Padgett
Harry Braham and Gus Devere were also in the cast. The next season began August 22, 1892, with "Killarney," for the first time in this city, in which Katie Emmet played Kitty
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333
Burke, and Terry Doyle. Roland Reed appeared Sept. 5 in "Lend Me Your Wife." The Howard Athenseum specialty or- ganization came August 28. The members of this company who made their first appearance in America were Cain and Abel, trapeze artists; Kate Cohen, vocalist; and Albert Christian, balladist. Lottie Collins reappeared in America in the musical sketch "A Naughty Substitute," singing for the first time in America "Mar- guerite." The Fred Warde-Louis James combination began an engagement of two weeks Sept. 11 in "The Lion's Mouth," with this cast :
Paul di Novara . . Frederick Warde
Julio H. A. Langdon
Claudio H. C. Barton
Bonatesta .... Charles Charters
Marco Howard Kyle
Gregorio Charles Clark
Francesco Louis James
Ugolini CD. Herman
Dionysio James Cooper
Solomon John Hickey
Ghetto R. V. Percy
"Julius Caesar" was presented Sept. 25, 26, 27, and Oct. 2 and 8; " Othello " was seen Sept. 29, 30, and Oct. 6. " Virginius " was done Oct. 3 and matinee, Oct. 7.
Mr. and Mrs. Kendal returned Oct. 9 in "The Second Mrs. Tanqueray," by Arthur Pinero, for the first time in America, and with this cast :
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. G. A. Watson |
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Giacomo |
. . H. D. Bird |
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Antonio . |
. . R. Willing |
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Caredo . |
Robert Harland |
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Fabia |
. Miss Everett |
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Linora . |
Edythe Chapman |
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Marcella |
Fanny Bowman |
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Dora Grundman |
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Julia . . |
. Flora Gaines |
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Lucia |
Miss Raymond |
Aubrey Tanqueray . Sir George Orreyd . Captain Hugh Ardale Cayley Drummle . . Frank Misquith . .
. Mr. Kendal
G. P. Huntley
Oscar Adye
J. E. Dodson
. James East
Gordon Jayne . Lady Orreyd . Mrs. Cortelyou Ellean . . . Paula . . .
George H. Gray
Nellie Campbell
. Mary Talbott
Annie Irish
Mrs. Kendal
" The Silver Shell " was presented Oct. 30 for the first time in America, and was thus cast :
Gen. Prince Karatoff . . . Kendal Sir Richard Stanhope . Oscar Ayde
Valdor Cecil M. York
Banham James East
Herr Schmidt ... G. P. Huntley
MourofE C. Walker
Borrs Ivanitch .... George Gray
Vasili Howard Sturge
Juge d'Instruction .... Walters Agent of Police ... A. Howton
Constantin Harrison
Vladimir Gaysford
Joseph Jefferson appeared Nov, 6 in "Rip Van Winkle," with this cast: Rip, Joseph Jefferson; Derrick von Beekman, Edwin
Adolf I. Deane
Andre A. White
Ivan Petrovitch Daly
Ladislas H. Walford
Lady Armytage . . . Annie Irish Mrs. Ladd . . . Florence Bennett Mrs. Verl .... Barbara Huntley Lucille .... Adrienne Dairolies
Jack I Maggie f Katherine Vail .
. Valentine Mrs Kendal
334 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1894
Varrey; Cockles, Joseph Warren; Hendrick, George F. Nash; Gretchen, Annie Mack; Meenie, Blanche Bender; Little Hend- rick, Nanon Fowler. Alex. Salvini began an engagement of two weeks Nov. 27, in "The Three Guardsmen," with this cast:
Louis XIII. . . . Paul Cazeneuve Cardinal Richelieu . . Ben Johnson George Villiers . . . John A. Lane Count de Rochefort, Elmer Delamater De Treville . . . Clement St. Martin
Aramis J. D. Murfree
Athos .... William Redmund Porthos William Harris
Pouchet . . . Captain de Jussac Seadrift . . . Anne of Austria Lady de Winter Constance . . Philippe d'Artagnan,
. . George Clare Charles Richards Max Mazzanovich . Eleanor Moretti . Augusta Forrest . . Maud Dixon Alexander Salvini
"Zamar," by Paul Kester, was first acted in this city Dec. 11. "Ruy Bias" was played Dec. 18, with William Harris as Don Salluste; Wm. Redmund, Don Caesar; Eleanor Moretti, Marianne; and Alex. Salvini in the title r61e. " Don Caesar de Bazan " was seen Dec. 20-21 ; "Zamar," Dec. 22, and matinee and night, Dec. 23. "Africa" Dec. 25, with this cast:
Maurice Merrill . Matthew Miller . Moses Merrill . . Menander Mudge . Maggs
John A. Coleman
Chas. H. Hopper
Chas. J. Stine
. H. W. Frillman
R. J. Jose
Miggs Thos. Lewis
Muggs John Daly
Menelaus McAllister . Wm. Vidocq Mike Milligan . . . E. C. Jobson
Marion Morton Mabel Merrill . Maude Merrill . Millicent Merrill Minerva Mudge Melissa Maddox Mark Mansfield Mr. Merkus
. . Hilda Rollins . . Helen Byron . Henrietta Byron . Blanche Hayden Florence Raymond . . Madge Ellis . . Otis Harlan . George Thatcher
Mrs. John Drew appeared here as Widow Warren Jan. 15, 1894, in "The Road to Ruin," with Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Drew as Mr. Oakley and Harriet Russet. " The Jealous Wife " was played Jan. 22 for one week except the night of Jan. 27, when " The Rivals " was given. W. H. Crane returned Jan. 29 in "The Senator." Agnes Booth was Mrs. Hillary, and Fred de Belleville, Count von Strahl; "On Probation," March $; and Mr. Crane's engage- ment closed March 10. " Rosedale" was presented March 21, with this cast :
Elliot Gray . . Bunbernr Cobb . Miles McKenna . Matthew Leigh Col. Cavendish May
. Joseph Haworth
William Mestayer
. Frank J. Keenan
Howard Gould
Mark Price
Lady Florence May Rosa Leigh . . . Tabitha Stork . . Lady Adela Gray . Sarah Sykes . .
. Annie Clarke Isabella Evesson . . Kate Ryan . Belle Stokes . Helen Dayne
Mr. and Mrs. Kendal reappeared April 2 in "The Second Mrs. Tanqueray," for one week; "The Iron Master " was seen April 9-1 1, and matinee, April 14; "Still Waters Run Deep," April 10-12; "A White Lie," April 13; and the Kendals closed April 14, with "A Scrap of Paper," "The Mouse Trap," and "A Pair of
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335
Lunatics." " A Play in Little," and " Faithful James " were given afternoon April 13 by the Kendals and other volunteers for the benefit of the Actors' Fund. Joseph Jefferson returned April 16 for two weeks in " Rip Van Winkle ; " " The Crust of Society " was played April 30 ; " Musotte, " by de Maupassant, was first acted in America May 7, and had this cast : John Martinel, Nelson Wheat- croft ; Leo de Petitpre, Edward J. Radcliffe ; M. Martinel, Joseph W. Shannon ; Madame de Ronchard, Sarah McVicker ; Ruth Mar- tinel, Carrie L. Keeler.
The next season began Aug. 27, with Edmund Collier in " The Cross Roads of Life," for the first time in this city. "Rosedale" followed Sept. 10 for two weeks with Joseph S. Haworth, Elliot Gray; M. A. Kennedy, Bunberry Cobb; Chas. Abbott, Miles MciCenna; and Charles B. Hanford, Matthew Leigh. William H. Crane produced "The Merry Wives of Windsor," Sept. 24, with this cast:
Sir John Falstaff . . Wm. H. Crane
Fenton William Lewers
Justice Shallow H. A. Weaver, Sen. Master Slender . Jos. Wheelock, Jr. Sir Hugh Evans . James O. Barrows Dr. Caius Percy Brooke
Bardolph Gus Devere
Pistol Geo. F. Devere
Mistress Ford . . . FfoUiott Paget Mistress Page . Lizzie Hudson Collier
Anne Page Anne O'Neill
Dame Quickley . Kate Denin Wilson
Joseph Jefferson appeared Oct. 10 in "Rip Van Winkle," and remained for two weeks.
Rose Coghlan presented a revival of " Diplomacy " Oct. 24, which had this cast: Henry Beauclerc, Charles Coghlan; Captain Julian Beauclerc, John T. Sullivan ; Count Orloff, Frederic Rob- inson; Baron Stein, Robert Fischer; Algie Fairfax, Grant Stew- art; Markham, John S. Marble; Antoine, Edwin James; Shepard, E. R. Lester; Francois, Ernest Auporz; Dora, Sadie Martinot; Marquise de Rio Zares, Ida Von Trautman ; Lady Henry Fairfax, Beatrice Moreland; Mion, Mabel Eaton; Countess Zicka, Rose Coghlan. E. S. Willard was seen here Nov. 21 in "The Middle- man;" "Judah" Dec. S; "John Needham's Double," Dec. 8; and "A Fool's Paradise," for the first time in this city Dec. 12; the farce, "My Wife's Dentist," was played the same night; "The Professor's Love Story" was produced Dec. 19, for the first time in this city, and was thus cast :
Goodwillie Mr. Willard
Agnes Goodwillie . . Ethel Douglas Sir George Gilding . . Louis Massen Lady Gilding . . . Maxine Elliott
Dowager Lady Gilding
Nannie Craddock
Dawson Arthur Tiffany
Lucy White . . Marie Burroughs
Minna Gale Haynes appeared as a " star " for the first time in New York, and played Julia in "The Hunchback," Dec. 26, with John Malone as Clifford, Milnes Levick as Master Walter, Eben
336 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1893
Plympton as Modus, Owen S. Fawcett as Fathom, and Mary Shaw as Helen. "As You Like It" was seen Jan. 2, 1893, with Eben Plympton as Orlando; Milnes Levick, Jaques; Owen S. Fawcett as Touchstone; and Minna Gale Haynes as Rosalind. "Romeo and Juliet " was played Jan. 9 for two weeks : Romeo, Eben Plympton ; Mercutio, Milnes Levick ; Nurse, Mrs. Sol Smith; Lady Capulet, Lizzie Goode; Juliet, Minna Gale Haynes. Eben Plympton was out of the cast Jan. 10, 11, 12, when Arthur Lewis acted Romeo and Frederick Vroom was the Tybalt. "The Hunchback" was repeated, Jan. 23; "Ingomar," Jan. 24-28, with Miss Haynes as Parthenia, and Plympton as Ingomar; "As You Like It," Jan. 25; "The Lady of Lyons" was given Jan. 26 and matinee, Jan 28; "Romeo and Juliet," Jan. 27.
Wm. H. Crane reappeared Jan. 30 in " On Probation " : Jona- than Silsbee, William H. Crane; Lady Brooke, Hattie Russell; Senhora Olviera, Anne O'Neil; Mary Marlow, Amy Busby; Mrs. Harmony, Augusta Foster. "Brother John," by Martha Morton, was produced March 20, for the first time on any stage. It had this cast:
Hettie Rolan . Lizzie Hudson Collier Maggie Rolan . . . Gladys Wallis Mrs. Van Sprague . . Marie Dantes Helen Van Sprague . . Amy Busby Maria Idalene Cotton
John Hackett . . William H. Crane Bobby Hackett, Joseph Wheelock, Jr. Henry De Ruyter . J. H. Gilmour Wolf Hopkins ... J. C. Padgett Beckey Hackett . . Augusta Foster Sophie Hackett . . . Anne O'Neil
George F. Devere took a benefit afternoon of April 18 to cele- brate his fiftieth year upon the stage. Mrs. Harriet Holman took a benefit the afternoon of April 25. The first act of "The Grand Duchess " was given, with Wm. H. Crane as Gen. Boum, Villa Knox as the Grand Duchess, Madge Lessing as Wanda, Frederick Solomon as Baron Puck, Max Figman as Nepomuc. " The Open Gate" was played by Eugene Ormonde, Fritz Williams, Maude Harrison, and Bessie Tyree; and "Old Love Letters" by Agnes Booth, Eugene Ormonde, and John Findlay. H. E. Dixey, J. T. Powers, Harry Conor, May Robson, and May Irwin also appeared. James T. Powers appeared here in "A Bad Bargain," May i: Arthur Jones, James T. Powers; Albert Jones, Peter F. Dailey; Rose Robinson, Rachel Booth; Mrs. Timothy Tracey, Louise Sylvester.
The season of 1893-94 opened August 14 with "The Player," by Blanche Marsden, with Lawrence Hanley as Hamlet and Russ Whytall as Claudius. On August 21 Lawrence Hanley changed his programme to two acts of "Romeo and Juliet," and "Othello," acting the title r61e in the latter play. "The Pacific Mail," an adaptation by Paul M. Potter from Tom Taylor's " Overland Route," was given Oct. 22, first time on any stage, and thus cast :
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337
Sylvanus Urban Mrs. Urban Capt. Weatherby Colin-Croft . . Sir Barnaby Bruce
Wm. H. Crane Ffolliott Paget Orrin Johnson
. Boyd Putnam H. A. Weaver
Ida Bruce Anne O'Neill
Mr. Winks ... G. F. Devere Humphrey Cossett
Joseph Wheelock, Jr. Lucilla Cossett Lizzie Hudson-Collier
Judge Yancey . . . Geo. F. Devere Amoret Yancey . . Mary Saunders Mrs. Chiverly .... Ida Burrows Harvey Packlemerton H. A. Langdon Euphemia Packlemerton
Kate Denin Wilson
Milly Vallie Egar
Major Fogarty . . . Percy Brooke Montague Carlton. . D. J. Fingleton Coolidge Brothers, James O. Barrows
An afternoon performance Oct. 25 was for the benefit of Little Ruby the child dancer. "To Nemesis, or Love and Hate," by Mrs. Romaldo Pacheco, was played Dec. 3 for the first time on any stage:
Count Ogareff . Frederick de Belleville Marquis d'Aramale . Henry Jewett Hon. Tom Abington Smythe
Cecil M. York Sr. Stuyvesant Smith J. W. Shannon Henri d'Alembert . . Mason Mitchell Dr. Marteau . H. W. Montgomery Capt. Renaud . . Franklyn Roberts
Nikifor Harry Courtaine
Mile. WalanofE . . Rose Coghlan Baroness de la Bruyere Maxine Elliott
Alixe Flaubert Mme. Froissart Mme. Ipanoff . Mme. Grangelieu Nadine . . .
Eifie Shannon
Hattie Russell
Ida Von Trautman
. Blanche Burton
Gertrude Elsmere
f "London Assurance" was produced Dec. 20, 21, 22, and matinee, Dec. 25, 26, also night of Dec. 28, with Fred de Belleville, Sir Harcourt; John T. Sullivan, Dazzle; Harry Jewett, Charles Court- ley; Rose Coghlan, Lady Gay Spanker; and Maxine Elliott, Grace Harkaway. " Diplomacy " was repeated Dec. 24-27, and matinee, Dec. 29. "Forget Me Not" was given the nights of Dec. 25-29. Harry Hawk acted Mark Meddle in "London Assurance," matinee, Dec. 25, and nights of Dec. 26-28. Denman Thompson appeared here Dec. 31 in "The Old Homestead," and continued until April 27, 1895. On Saturday night, Jan. 6, 1895, Den Thompson's en- tertainment of songs, illustrated and illuminated, was seen for the first time in this city. Den Thompson was too ill to appear Jan. 15-16, andhisr61e in "The Old Homestead " was assumed by Odell Williams. Afternoon of April 19 a performance was given for the benefit of the Manhattan Hospital and Infirmary. An English opera company commenced April 27, in "The Bohemian Girl," with this cast: Count Arnheim, Arthur Seaton; Arline, Helen Bertram; Buda, Leona Cardona; Queen of the Gypsies, Lucille Saunders; Devilshoof, Albert McGuckin; Florestein, Maurice Abbey; and Thaddeus, Charles O. Bassett. This opera was re- peated May I ; "II Trovatore " was sung April 30 and May 3, with Mile. Lindh, Leonora; Clodio, Manrico; McGuckin, Ferrando; Seaton, Count di Luna; and Miss Mattfield as Azucena. "Faust" was given May 2. Shortly after the audience had assembled Sat- urday night. May 4, they were informed that there Would be no
VOL. II. — 22
338 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE E1897
performance and that their money would be returned at the box office. The cause was a strike of the orchestra for salaries. Elita Proctor Otis appeared here May 13 in "Oliver Twist" for a few nights, after which the theatre was closed, when Neil Burgess be- came lessee.
The Star Theatre was now extensively altered, particularly behind the curtain. The old stage which sloped perceptibly to the foot- lights, a relic of the days when the ballet had to be considered, was taken out and a new stage built. A new and elaborate system of electric lighting was introduced, which operated two thousand incandescent lamps. Twenty-two new dressing-rooms were built beneath the stage.
The theatre was reopened Saturday night, Nov. 2, 1895, with "The Year One," by Charles Barnard, with this cast: Caesar Oc- tavius Augustus, Emperor of Rome, Neil Burgess ; Curius Cinna, John A. Lane ; C. Manlius Gallius, Edgar L. Davenport ; Geth- airius, Cuyler Hastings;. Startori, Percy Smith; Gabbylaria, Neil Burgess. It was a great failure. On Nov. 14 the play was re- vised, and given at a professional matinee. The house was closed Dec. 5 and continued dark until Dec. 9, when Neil Burgess ap- peared in "The County Fair," and remained until Jan. 25, 1896.
The next manager of this house was Walter Sanford, who took charge Jan. 27, and presented Joseph Murphy as the star in " Shaun Rhue " for the first week, and in " Kerry Gow " the second week. "The War of Wealth" came here Feb. 10; "The Last Stroke," March 23 ; " Law of the Land," April 27. The season closed May 2 and reopened Saturday night, August 29, 1896, with cheap prices of admission, under the management of R. M. Gulick, Henry M. Bennett, Wm. T. Keogh, and Thos. Davis, managers of the Bijou Theatre, Brooklyn, the Bijou in Pittsburg, the National in Phila- delphia, and the Columbia in Boston. The opening attraction was "Northern Lights," which ran for two weeks. Cleveland's minstrels were seen Sept. 14; "In the Heart of the Storm," Sept. 21; "The Liliputians," Sept. 28, in "The Merry Tramps," for five weeks ; Mme. Sissierretta Jones, the colored singer known as the "Black Patti," gave a concert Sunday night, Oct. 11; The Liliputians gave a professional matinee, Oct. 22; "Black Patti's Troubadours " were heard Nov, 2 ; Frank Bush came Nov. 9 in " A Girl Wanted ; " " An Innocent Sinner " Nov. 16. Andrew Mack was seen Nov. 23 in " Myles Aroon ; " "A Happy Little Home " came Nov. 30 for two weeks, also a farce called "The Yellow Kid ; " " The Bells of Shandon " was to have been played Dec. 14, but " Brother for Brother " was given instead. The Liliputians came Dec. 21 for two weeks; "Fallen Among Thieves," by Frank Harvey, was acted Jan. 4, 1897; "A Trip to Chinatown," Jan. 11; "A Boy Wanted," Jan. 18, for two weeks; "On the Missis-
I8g83
THE STAR THEATRE
339
sippi," Feb. i; "Cuba's Vow," by J. J. McCloskey, was produced Feb. 8 for the first time on any stage by professional players, and had this cast :
Cuba Varona . . Adelaide Cushman Donna Dolores Vazquez,
Etelka WardeU Delphine Varona, . Louise Sydmeth Patria Little Mona
Lieut. Percival Grant
Harrington Reynolds Narciso Vazquez . . Frank Opperman Maximo Gomez . . W. L. Buchanan Antonio Maceo . . Hamilton Harris Felipo Varona . Frederick Lander
It was repeated for a second week. Kate Claxton came Feb. 22, in "Two Orphans." Ward and Yokes were seen in "A Run on the Bank," March i; "The Great Diamond Robbery" was done March 8; "The Boys of Kilkenny," by Townsend Walsh, March 15; Kate Claxton, March 22, in "The World Against Her;" Hi Henry's minstrels, March 29; "A Texas Steer," April 5; Carl A. Haswin was seen April 12 in "A Lion's Heart;" "Chimmie Fadden " came April 19; "The Land of the Living" was produced April 26, with Kid McCoy, the prize fighter, in the cast.
A new version of " Uncle Tom's Cabin," by Edwin Barbour and Harkins, was given May 3, and ran for three weeks. The season closed May 21. The house reopened May 31 for one week, with Robert Fitzsimmons, another prize fighter, and a vaudeville company.
The next season began Aug. 21, 1897, with "The Privateer," by Harrison G. Fiske, for the first time on any stage, with Chas. H. Riegel, Lorimer Johnstone, Henry Bagge, Edward Eisner, Dora Goldthwaite, and others in the cast. " The Captain of the Non- such" was presented Sept. 13 for the first time. This was an adaptation from the French of Hennequin, by J. F. Milliken and John M. Morton. The Liliputians came Sept. 20 in "The Fair in lyiidgettown," a spectacular play in four acts, by Robert Breiten- bach, with incidental music by Victor Hollaender. It was thus cast: Stockfellow, Wilke; Mary, Elsie Lau; Dr. Brown, Hart- wig; Fatman, Herrmann Ring; Alice, Toni Meister; Joe, Max Walter; Freelunch, Franz Ebert; Soap, Bertha Jaeger; Annie, Selma Goerner; General Grant, Helene Linden "The Heart of the Klondike," by Scott Marble, was seen for the first time Nov. 8. The opera "Shamus O'Brien" was sung Dec, 6. On and after Dec. 13 the prices of admission ranged from $1 to 15 cts. "Chimmie Fadden" came Dec. 13; a vaudeville company, Dec. 20; "Miss Philadelphia " (previously called "Miss Manhattan"), Dec. 27, with Elva Croix Seabrooke, Queen Vassar, Jessie Villars, and others in the cast. -- -
340
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1899
Check," Feb. 14, with Maggie Cline in her songs. Kate Clax- ton returned Feb. 21 in "The Two Orphans;" "East Lynne " was played Feb. 28, with McKee Rankin, Wilton Lackaye, Nance O'Neil, and Rose Eytinge in the cast. "At Piney Ridge" was played March 7; Joseph Murphy came March 14, in "Shaun Rhue;" John A. Stevens, March 21, in "Unknown;" Elita Proc- tor Otis and Charles Barron were seen March 28 in " Oliver Twist ; " "The Electrician" was done April 4.
Louis James April il, in "Hamlet;" "Julius Csesar," April 12; and other plays during the week. " Northern Lights " was done April 18; "Uncle Tom's Cabin," April 25; "The White Squad- ron," May 2. A summer opera season commenced May 9 with a matinee each day except Monday. The "Mikado" was the first opera sung. "The Bohemian Girl " was heard May 16; " Olivette," May 23, with Corinne in title r61e. Corinne retired from the cast after May 26. " Pinafore " and " Trial by Jury " were given May 30, and the season closed June 4. The house reopened Aug. 13, with "In Atlantic City," Frank M. Wells being the star; "A Hired Girl" was seen Aug. 22; "The Maine Avenged," by Ham- ilton Harris, Aug. 29; "Hazel Kirke" was seen Sept. $ with this cast:
Dolly Dutton . . Mercy Kirke . . Lady Travers . . Clara .... Arthur Carringford Aaron Rodney
Mary Stuart
Lizzie Duroy
Clara Gisiko
Edith Gibbons
. Basil West
Clifford Pembroke
Pittacus Green . . A. Law Gisiko
Met J. H. Vernon
Barney O'Flynn . William H. Cahill
Joe Charles Marriott
Dunstan Kirke . . C. W. Couldock
This was C. W. Couldock's last appearance on the stage. "The Lost Paradise" was played Sept. 12, with Harrison J. Wolfe the star; "John Martin's Secret," by Sutton Vane, was given for the first time in America, Sept. 19; "A Sure Cure" came Sept. 26. Oct. 3 "Have You Seen Smith.'" by Scott Marble, was offered; "A High Born Lady," Oct. 10, by Herbert Hall Winslow; "The Two Little Vagrants," Oct. 17; "On Land and Sea," Oct. 24; "Shall We Forgive Her.'" Oct. 31, for two nights, with Marie Wainwright the star, who also appeared in "East Lynne," matinee Nov. 2, and the rest of the week. " The Finish of Mr. Fresh " was produced Nov. 7; "My Friend from India," Nov. 14; "The Two Orphans," Nov. 21, with Kate Claxton as the star; "A Grip of Steel," Nov. 28; "A Spring Chicken," Dec. 5; "Devil's Island," Dec. 12; Clara Morris was seen in "Miss Multon," Dec. 19; "A Female Drummer " came Dec. 26, with Johnstone Bennett as the star.
Jan. 2, 1899, "Red, White, and Blue" by James Schonberg, was seen; "Down in Dixie," Jan. 9; "Daughters of the Poor,"'
igoo: THE STAR THEATRE 341
Jan. 16; "Cumberland '61," Jan. 23; "The Girl from Paris," Jan, 30; "Two Little Vagrants," Feb. 6; "Heart of the Klondike," Feb. 13; "A Female Drummer" returned Feb. 20 for two weeks; "McFadden's Row of Flats" was seen March 6; "The Silver King," March 13; "King of the Opium Ring," March 20; "Side- walks of New York," March 27, with Tom Sharkey the prize fighter in the play. " At Piney Ridge " returned April 3 ; " A Stranger in New York" came April 10; "A Parlor Match," April 17; "Prodigal Daughters," April 24; "White Heather," May i; "Uncle Tom's Cabin," May 8; "Yon Yonson," May 15; "Gettys- burg," May 22; Paul Gilmore appeared May 29 in "The Three Guardsmen;" "Too Much Johnson," by William Gillette, June 5; and the season closed June 10.
The next season began Saturday night, Aug. 19, with "The Queen of Chinatown," by James Jarrow, with Harry Mainhall and Jeffreys Lewis in the leading r61es. Howard Hall appeared here Aug. 28 in his own play, "A Soldier of the Empire;" the melodrama, "The City of New York," by Walter Fessler, was done Sept. 4, and "A Trip to Chinatown," Sept. 11. Harrison J. Wolfe appeared in "Corsican Brothers," Sept. 18 and repeated it during the week, and was also seen in "David Garrick," preceded by the balcony scene from "Romeo and Juliet," matinee Sept. 20 and night of Sept. 22; "Hamlet," with Wolfe in the title r61e was done the night of Sept. 20 and matinde, Sept. 23 ; " Courted into Court" came Sept. 25; "When London Sleeps," Oct. 2; "Through the Breakers," Oct. 9; Williams and Walker's negro specialty show, Oct. 16; "Two Little Vagrants," Oct. 23; "The White Heather," Oct. 30, with Rose Coghlan as the star; "The Great Train Robbery" was seen Nov. 6; "The Evil Eye," Nov. 13'; Joseph Murphy played in "Kerry Gow," Nov. 20; "The Queen of China- town " came Nov. 27, with Will Harkins and Laura Biggar in leading r61es; "Kidnapped in New York," came Dec. 4; West's minstrels, Dec. 11; "Under the City Lamps," Dec. 18; "Bowery After Dark," Dec. 25 ; " Superba," Jan. 8, 1900; '* A Female Drum- mer," Jan. 15; "A Guilty Mother," Jan. 22; "King of Rogues," Jan. 29; "Man's Enemy," Feb. 5; "The Great Train Robbery," Feb. 12; "Around New York in Eighty Minutes," Feb. 19; " King of the Opium Ring," Feb. 26; "Gunner's Mate," March 5; "Uncle Tom's Cabin," March 12; "Across the Paciiic," March 19; "On the Stroke of Twelve," April 2; "Hearts of Oak," April 9; "McFadden's Row of Flats." April 16; "A Dangerous Woman," by Fred Scudamore, April 23; "Caught in the Web," April 30; "Yon Yonson," May 7; Williams and Walker's colored show. May 14; Julia Morrison in "A Day of Reckoning," May 21; "Devil's Mine," May 28. The season closed June 2. The next season opened Aug. 11, with Aiden Benedict's version
342
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cigoi
of "Quo Vadis; " Aug. 20 was the first presentation on any stage of "The Angel of the Alley," byTheo Kremer, with this cast:
Walter Bennett Harry Morgan Father Newman Willie Brummell Pat Mulligan . Sam Smalley . Bob Turner . Warden . . .
. Gus. A. Stryker Arthur E. Sprague Chas. E.Bunnell Joseph P. Carey . Mr. P. C. Foy Ernest J. Mack . Harvey King . W. C. Lang
. Philip Wilson Ed. A. Cromwell . Carina Jordan Florence Gerald . Lillian Harper Katrina Katzenmayer
Marie Le Roy Sally Slide . . • Tessie Lawrence
Policeman . . Jake . . . . Ethel Sheriden Mrs. Bennett . Nancy Oliver Mrs ■
Aug. 27, first time on any stage of "The Slaves of the Orient," also by Theo. Kremer:
. . . Abdallah Oshan Ben Saleem . Hadji Hammed . Edward Fenton Joseph Dudley . James Coppinger George Considine . . Lucia Moore . . Adele Palmer . . . LiUieHall
Abu-Arisch Fakih-Ali . Hodhaifah . Abd'allah . Scheddah . Khaled . . Selim . . Alice Palmer Fatima . . Marguerite .
Abdul Hamid .... M. J. Jordan Gen. Fiske .... James R. Garey Lieutenant Howard Ward
Geo. A. D. Johnson Ensign George Winters, Harold Crane Osmar Pasha .... Howard Lang
Hassan George Seybolt
Agah Ahmed
Abdul Nazami Rahlman
Hamal Abachi
El Chahin .... Carlos Fernandez
Sept. 3, "Uncle Sam in China," Sept. 10, "M'liss," with Nellie McHenry in the title rdle; Sept. 17, "Reaping the Whirlwind," by Owen Davis; Sept. 24, "Bowery After Dark," with Terry McGovern the prize fighter as the star ; Oct. i, "Man's Enemy;" Oct. 8, "A Wise Guy;" Oct. 15, Williams and Walker; Oct. 22, "Siberia;" Oct. 29, "King of the Opium Ring;" Nov. 5, "The Great White Diamond " by Walter Fessler; Nov. 12, "Two Little Vagrants;" Nov. 19, first time on any stage, "The African King," by Madelaine Merle; Nov. 26, "Great Train Robbery;" Dec. 3, "Through the Breakers;" Dec. 10, Gus Hill's Lilipu- tians; Dec. 17, the Indian actress, Go-Won-Go-Mohawk in "The Flying Arrow;" Dec. 24, "Eight Bells;" Dec. 31, "Superba;" Jan. 7, 1901, "County Fair," with Neil Burgess as the star; Jan. 14, "Lost in the Desert;" Jan. 21, Robert Fitzsimmons, the prize fighter, in "The Honest Blacksmith;" Jan. 28, "McFad- den's Row of Flats;" Feb. 4, "A Guilty Mother;" Feb. 11, "Across the Pacific;" Feb. 18, "Lost Paradise," with Harrison Wolfe as the star; Feb. 25, "Shenandoah;" March 4, "Uncle Tom's Cabin;" March 11, "Bowery after Dark," with Teddy McGovern, the prize fighter, as the star; March 18, "The Con- vict's Daughter;" March 25, Cole and Johnson's colored com- pany; April I, "A Young Wife;" April 8, "On the Stroke of Twelve;" April 15 Thomas E. Sh'ea opened in "The Man-o'- War's Man," and during the week he presented "Dr. Jekyll and
1865]
DODWORTH HALL
343
Mr. Hyde." The last performance given here was "The Man-o'- War's Man." The attendance was very poor, owing, no doubt, to the bad weather. The cast of "Man-o'-War's Man "was:
Capt. Jack Conway . Thomas E. Shea Capt. Basillo Havilando, Henry Testa Lieut. Herman Schiller . . Jas. Irving Ensign Barry Hanlay, Jas.J. Cassady Senor Enrique Candenas
Geo. L. Kennedy Gen. Ivan Pietrovitch, Wm. J. Carnes Gen. Raposo . . J. Irving Southard Baron Adamantofi . John E. Gilbert
Prince Septine Barenski. John R. Pauly Lieut. Victor Leontine, Wm. Johnson Hon. Cyril Denleigh . George West Gen. de Mercier . . James Irving Russian Jailer . . . John Wilton Elinore Denleigh . . Josephine Morse Jessie Denleigh . . Charlotte Burkett Rose Leontine . Bessie B. Beardsley
R. M. Gulick, H. M. Bennett, and Wm. T. Keogh, the firm of R. M. Gulick & Co., were the last managers of the house. At the close of the performance the audience dispersed, while the orches- tra, standing, played "Auld Lang Syne." About two hundred persons lingered in the auditorium and called for a speech. The raising of the curtain disclosed the stage hands clearing the stage. Mr. Shea asked for some representative of the management to make a farewell address, but none was forthcoming. He instructed a stage hand to place a " bunch light " in the centre of the stage, and the few remaining people gathered about the house.
"It's characteristic," said an actor. "The lemon's squeezed. Throw it away, and there's an end to it."
George G. Rockwood, the photographer, then ascended to the stage and made a few remarks. Then some one asked that the or- chestra play something for old times' sake. " The orchestra has gone, " remarked Bessie Beardsley, the soubrette of the company, "but if there's a piano I'll do what I can." Finally a piano was wheeled upon the stage and Miss Beardsley played "Auld Lang Syne," which was sung by the other members of the company, the stage hands, and all who were present ; and thus ended the history of this famous old house. It was soon after demolished and busi- ness premises were erected on its site.
DODWORTH HALL
ADJOINING Grace Church at 806-808 Broadway was " Dod- worth Hall " devoted to lectures and light entertainments. During the latter part of 1861 a series of "soirees dramatiques" was given under the direction of M. Juignet. Artemus Ward lec- tured here from Oct. 17 to Dec. 24. His subject was "Mormon- dom. " Augusta L. Dargon made her debut as a reader June 8, 1863. Alfred Burnett appeared Feb. 27, 1865, for three weeks. His last appearance in this city was at Harry Miner's Theatre in the fall of 1883. He died at Cincinnati, Ohio, April 4, 1884, of
344 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1863
apoplexy. He was born at London, Eng., Oct. 2, 1824, and was brought to this country when seven years of age. He went into the confectionery business at Cincinnati in 1844-45, and Lawrence P. Barrett, the afterwards famous actor, was employed in his store for some time serving ice cream. He made his first appearance on any stage in 1847, at Wood's Theatre, Cincinnati, as Hamlet. A short time prior to this he had been on tour with Prof, de Bonneville, reciting "The Maniac." He afterwards played Ed- ward Middleton in "The Drunkard," at Wood's Theatre, Cincin- nati. In 1851 he visited England as correspondent of The Cincin- nati Daily Globe. He served in the army during the Civil War in 1861, and received a severe wound in one of his legs, from which he suffered until his death. In November, 1865, he returned temporarily to the stage, sailed for California Oct. 5, 1868. In his monologue entertainments he impersonated young and old women, Dutch, French, Scotch, Irish, and Yankee characters.
Zelda Harrison made her first appearance in New York at this hall Aug. 25, 1865, in concert, in company with Mme. Anna Bishop, Stephen Massett, and others. A bullfrog exhibition opened here Sept. 11 followed Oct. 9 by Blind Tom. Prof. Hartz, the magician, began a three months' season here in October. The Georgia minstrels were here in the summer of 1867. James Taylor, the English comic singer, appeared Aug. 26, 1868. Kelly and Leon gave a minstrel entertainment Aug. 29, 1870, and produced the burlesque, "Le Petit Faust," with Leon as Marguerite, Kelly as Faust, S. S. Purdy as Valentine, Sam Price as Lizette, and J. H. Surridge as Altmeyer. The comic opera, "Babies of the Period," was done Sept. 12. On Oct. 24 for the first time in America, the comic opera "La Rose de Saint Fleur" was sung. This company terminated its stay here Dec. 3. The building was afterwards occupied by the Herts Brothers, as a fur- niture warehouse, and in July, 1887, the structure was torn down.
WOOD'S MINSTREL HALL
THE old Jewish synagogue, situated at 514 Broadway, east side, below Spring Street, was turned into a place of amuse- ment July 7, 1862, and called "Wood's Minstrel Hall." The first occupant of the place was Henry Wood and his minstrel company consisting of Eph Horn, Frank Brower, Cool White, R. Abecco, Chas. Fox, H. Schwicardi, C. Harcourt, H. Hartley, David Bra- ham, Joseph Braham, W. Patterson, E. Stigler, J. Leis, G. Stew- art, Leopold St. John, Walter Manning, Pierre Ballou, S. Clark Mortimer, J. Carney, R. Bevington, M. Stanwood, Gustave du Barre, Master Samuel, and Master Eddy.
For the season of 1863-64 the company was D. S. Wambold,
18663
WOOD'S THEATRE
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Frank Brower, Charles Fox, A. J. Talbot, Cool White, Charles Henry, G. C. Lockwood, J. W. Glenn, H. Schwicardi, the Isaacs Brothers, E. Haslam, J. Leis, M. Lewis, Master Wood, and Eph Horn. Lew Brimmer, Johnny Boyce, and Siegrist and his per- forming dogs appeared during the season.
A. H. ("Dolly") Davenport made his first (and only) appear- ance on the Ethiopian stage on July i. The announcement of Dan Bryant's appearance on the dramatic stage was an incentive for "Dolly," who had been bantered by a few intimate friends, and a wager of $^o had been made that he would not put on the burnt cork.
The " Ghost illusion " was done Aug. lo. The hall was closed Feb. 18, 19, 20, in consequence of the death of Mrs. Henry Wood. The next season there appeared Cool White, stage manager, S. S. Purdy, Archie Hughes, F. L. Mollenhauer (violinist). Penny and Goldie, gymnasts, Edward Haslam, flutist, Frank Brower, Sam Sharpley, S. S. Sanford, Cal Wagner, Hughey Dougherty, A. C. Stone, Little Archie, Jules Stratton, Dick Escott, Frank Bowles, E. T. Blackmer, Thomas Sears, Elvin French, Wm. Chambers, Gil Pond, John Williams, J. Ambrose, and John Masterson. The establishment was closed from April 14 till April 26, 1865, on account of the assassination of President Lincoln. On its reopen- ing, a solemn dirge, words by Cool White, music by F. L. Mollen- hauer, was chanted by the company.
The season closed Sept. 9 and reopened Sept. 1 1. Henry Wood continued as manager, and his company was composed of the fol- lowing : Cool White, J. Garatagua, E. Haslam, T. Simpson, Frank Brower, J. W. Glenn, W. D. Corrister, T. McNally, S. S. Purdy, H. T. Mudge, Charles Henry, H. Schwicardi, and J. Bergness, Frank Moran, and John Clarke. John Clarke was afterwards known as Sig. Broccolini, and sang in opera with great success. In 1893 he became musical editor of the Brooklyn Eagle, and left the stage. Sig. Vallo, bird imitator, came here Oct. i ; Don Manuel Donato, one-legged dancer, C. Harris, and James H. Budworth, Oct. 8.
The season closed Dec. 25, when Henry Wood retired from the management, having sold all his interest in the house to George Wood (then managing the Broadway Theatre, formerly Wallack's, Broadway and Broome). Mr. Wood had the house reconstructed and converted into a regular theatre with a seating capacity of about thirteen hundred. It was known as "Wood's Theatre" and as such was opened Jan. 15, 1866. The first performance given in Wood's Theatre was T. B. de Walden's local extrava- ganza, "The Balloon Wedding":
Paul F. S. Chanfrau
Reuben . . . . G. C. Davenport Windbag W. Scallan
Tom Eugene Eberle
Jenny .... Henrietta Osborne Widow Mrs. E. Wright
346 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsee
Henry, James, John Walsh, Newton, Sallie Tray, Anne Merry, Frances Ullman, Gilmore, and Gardner were also in the cast. Previous to this, the Hanlon Brothers — Thomas, George, Wil- liam, Edward, Alfred, and Frederick — appeared in gymnastic and acrobatic acts. Samuel Colville was acting manager and Ben A. Baker, stage manager. F. S. Chanfrau appeared Jan. 22 as Jerry Clip in "The Widow's Victim;" Jan. 29. "Mose" and "The Model of a Wife": C, T. Parsloe, Jr., Welsh Edwards, N. Mcln- tyre, and S. L. Goodwin; Feb. 5, "Mose," "The Debutante," and "The Irish Tutor." Mr. Chanfrau closed Feb. 10 in "A Glance at New York."
Frank Drew began Feb. 12 as Rip Van Winkle and as Lady Isabel in a burlesque called "East Lynne, or the Great Western." Lucille Western and Barton Hill began Feb. 19 in Charles Gayler's "Atonement, or the Child Stealer;" the cast was:
Madge the Cadger, Margaret
Rookley .... Lucille Western Richard Craddock . . . Barton Hill Simon Niphem . M. W. Leffingwell Lord Lansdale . . Welsh Edwards
Jemmy Tables . . . G. C. Davenport Maud Lansdale . Henrietta Osborne Molly O'Mayne . . Mrs. E. Wright Jenny Grant .... Alice Seidler Lester Young . . . . T. W. Keene
Charles Barras began April 16 in his own play called "The Hypochondriac," cast thus:
Vertigo Morbid . Dennis McCorkle Martha SniflFkins
. . Charles Barras . G. C. Davenport . Mrs. J. G. Saville
Charles J. G. Saville
Alice Alice Seidler
M. W. Leffingwell was seen the same evening as Romeo Jaffier Jenkins in "Too Much for Good Nature." Mr. Barras acted, April 23, Aminadab Sleek in " The Serious Family. " Mrs. J. G. Saville was afterwards the wife of Charles Brooke, the lawyer.
The Worrell Sisters — Sophie, Irene, and Jennie — were seen here April 30 in "The Elves." "The Invisible Prince" was pro- duced June 4; the Nicolo company of pantomimists, gymnasts, and dancers appeared the same night. " The Three Sisters " was an extravaganza in which the Worrell sisters sustained six charac- ters each, on June 18. Thos. L. Donnelly was in the cast. "Fra Diavolo"was presented July 2. Barton Hill acted "Lord Dun- dreary," a one-act sketch by Oxenford. On July 16, "The Elves " and "Too Much for Good Nature." "Cinderella," the one-act sketch, "Mrs. Smith," and a skating act by Alfred Moe formed the programme July 20. "The Fair One with the Golden Locks" and "The Maid with the Milking Pail" were given July 27. Yankee Locke acted in " The Fool of the Family " Aug. 3. Ben A. Baker took a benefit Aug. 9, when Mary Provost and Claude Hamilton were seen in "The Young Widow's Stratagem;" "The Old Guard," Ira H. Moore as Haversack; the burlesque, "The
1867: WOOD'S THEATRE COMIQUE 347
Fair One with the Golden Locks ; " comic songs by Tony Pastor ; and Professor Walsh in instrumental solos made up the bill. The season closed Aug. 10.
The Hanlon Brothers — Thomas, Frederick, and Edward — were the next managers of this theatre, and opened Aug. 13, 1866, with a miscellaneous entertainment. The company engaged, in addi- tion to themselves, were the Siegrist Family of gymnasts, the Caron Family of pantomimists and gymnasts, Signora Stella, and Master George, trapeze performer ; Mile. AnnettaGaletti, danseuse; G. W. Smith, ballet master; Charles E. Collins, Tom, Dick, and Harry, infant prodigies, and a corps de ballet. Kathleen O'Neil and the Cuban Brothers, Espinoza, and the Roderigues appeared Aug. 27. James M. Ward took a benefit Sept. i, when Major Pauline Cushman acted Cynthia in "The Flowers of the Forest," and Kate Newton played Starlight Bess. This closed the Hanlon Bros, management of this house.
The next managers were J. Guido Methua and Edward Haert- ing, who changed the name of the place to the " German Thalia Theatre." The company included Herren Haerting, Lederer, Ponner, Fietz, Lapwitz, Pelosi, Lohmann, Ahlfeldt, Mme. Methua- Scheller, Mme. Ahlfeldt, Mme. Pelosi, Mme. Riedel, and the Misses Hedwig-Hesse, Hand, Royal, and Fillman. The opening play was "Der Best Ton," by Dr. Carl Toepper, and a prologue was spoken by Mr. Haerting. On Sept. 8, Mile. Sophie Dzuiba appeared in the operetta of "Der Kappelmeister von Venedig," by Schneider, and as Nancy in "Love in the Kitchen," and on Sept. 17, Julius Ascher made his debut as Adam in "Der Winkleschreiber," and Nitsckie in the "Gebildete Hausknecht."
Methua withdrew from the theatre early in October, and on Oct. 22 Oscar Guttmann became associated with Mr. Haerting in the management. On Oct. 30 Mina Koch made her first appearance, and on Nov. 9 Kronfeldt joined the company. Bogumil Dawison appeared here Dec. 3 and continued until Dec. 29, when a German opera season commenced, and continued until the last of January, 1867, when the house closed.
The next manager was W. O. Bowers, who reopened the house March 2 as a variety theatre, and called it "Wood's Theatre COMIQUE." His company consisted of James Wambold, George H. Coes, S. S. Purdy, and Billy Emmett, negro comedians; Bunnell Runnells and sons, gymnasts; Prof. Hutchison, with performing dogs; Charles Austin, Zouave drill performer; Tom Vance, comic vocalist; Robert Butler, pantomimist; and a corps de ballet. Napoleon Gilles was the musical director. On March 11 Fanny Morgan Phelps, an Australian actress, made her first ap- pearance in New York, in "The Wild Irish Girl," and as Maggie McFarlane in "The Bonny Fishwife." She was supported by Sol
348 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1869
Smith, Belvil Ryan, C. J. Fyffe, Ogden, and Mary Wells. March 14 she appeared in "The Ladies' Battle" and "Kitty O' Shell." On April 18 "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was produced, with W. L. Jamison as Uncle Tom, Violet Campbell (Mrs. Belvil Ryan) as Eliza, and Little Eliza Glassford as Eva.
Mr. and Mrs. F. M. Bates made their New York debut April 25 in Schonberg's play, "Oscar the Half-Breed." Stuart Robson, George Becks, Harry Wall, A. W. Fenno, C. J. Fyffe, Sol Smith, Jr., Pemberton, Campbell, Mrs. Mark Smith, Mrs. Harry Wall, Mrs._ Burroughs, Mrs. Monell, Mrs. King, Hattie Thorne, and Sallie Steele were in the company. Mrs. Bates acted Lady Isabel in "East Lynne " April 3. The theatre closed April 13.
James W. Lingard was the next lessee of this house, who opened it as "Lingard's Theatre" on April 29, with a vaudeville com- pany: A. M. Hernandez, Harry Leslie, Billy Pastor, John Allen, W. K. Lingard, Monte Video, Parkhurst, Stewart, Dick Berthelon, Mile. Devere, Lina Windel, Fanny Forrest, Emma Fowler, Lizzie Whelpley, Augusta Walby, Julia Melville, and a ballet.
Fanny Herring appeared here May 28 in "Lysiah, the Aban- doned." Mr. Lingard acted Aminadab Sleek in "The Serious Family" June 2, and the season terminated abruptly June 7.
As the "Theatre Comique" this house was opened on Aug. 26, 1867, by Charley White and Sam Sharpley. In the company were: Ben Cotton, Sam Sharpley, Charley White, Eva Brent, Mile. Augusta, Ella La Rue, Mile. Lodowski, Mile. Devere, the Caron Family, and Miss Reynolds. Later on there appeared the Buisley Family, D. L. Morris, Anna Gibbons, the Leon Brothers, Frank Lacy, and others.
On Dec. 31 Ed. James, then the sporting editor of the New York Clipper, took a benefit. The season closed June 27, 1868, but shortly before Sharpley sold out his interest to Sandy Spencer. The house was reopened Aug. 17, by Charley White and Spencer, with W. Horace Lingard as manager, and David Braham, musical director. In the company were Alice Dunning, vocalist (her first appearance in America), Lizzie Wilmore, Lucy Edgerton, Ettie Romer, Prof. Hilton, ventriloquist; Joseph K. Emmet, Dutch and negro comedian, and E. B. Holmes.
At half-past three o'clock on the morning of Dec. 4, 1868, the theatre was partially destroyed by fire. _ It was at once rebuilt and opened Feb. i, 1869, with "The Mar- ried Rake," Lingard's sketches and a version of Byron's burlesque of " Orpheus and Eurydice. " On Feb. 8 G. C. Boniface appeared in "Two Can Play at That Game," Lillie Hall (now Mrs. Milt. Barlow), also appearing on the same evening. In the company were Irene Gay (Mrs. Fred Maeder), Carrie Olden, Flora Kruger, A. Hind, Rose Sinclair, Harry St. Leon, C. E. Newton, J. K.
1869]
THEATRE COMIQUE
349
Kruger, J. M. Warwick, J. M. Kennett, F. Carlyle, C. W. Kemble, J. P. Kilbourne, J. Elmore, Masters Ford and Strepo, Lina Edwin, Emma Laton, Annie Wood, Loudell, Hall, Jones, and Hanley.
James C. Williamson appeared May 3 in "The Silent Pro- tector." John Jack was seen May 17.
Edward Righton made his American d^but May 31, as John Duck in "The Jacobite." Mary Wells acted in the same play. The season closed June 5. The theatre reopened June 14, with the Mercer-Simpson English company in "Turn Him Out," with Joseph Irving, Robert Pateman, J. L. de Bonay, Bella Pateman, and Eunice Irving in the cast; Joseph Emmet's Dutch specialties and H. J. Byron's burlesque of " Mazourka, or The Stick, the Pole, and the Tartar," here called "Tiddlewinki," were given the same night. The burlesque had this cast :
Count Tiddlewinki . Lizzie Wilmore Countess Tiddlewinki . Joseph Irving Baron Bosh .... Miss Chapman Ivan Robert Pateman
Blind Fiddler .... Mr. Wallace Mazourki .... Maria Longmore Mazourka .... Bessie F. Foote Yelva Bella Fatemaa
Barton Hill and Celia Logan acted Sam and Alice in " Brother Sam" June 25. Robert McWade appeared June 26 in "Handy Andy" and a burlesque in Dutch on "Richard III."
On July 12 Fred G. Maeder was acting and stage manager.
Mr. and Mrs. Harry Watkins appeared July 12, in "Caught at Last," for the first time on any stage, with this cast:
Frank Harry Watkins
Theophilus . . . F. Chippendale
Janson John de Bonay
Eugenia . . . Florence La Fond
Cleopatra Rose Watkins
Lawrence Edwin Thorne
Hardtak .... John Matthews
Scriven Gus Mortimer
This was the first appearance in New York of Florence La Fond. "It Takes Two to Quarrel," a farce by Mr. Watkins, was also acted. In it Florence Stanley played Kitty — her first appearance in New York. The season closed July 31.
The next season began on Aug. 16, with Charley White and "Sandy" Spencer as managers. B. A. Baker, stage manager. " David Garrick " was played for the first time in America. The cast was : George C. Boniface as David Garrick, George Mitchell as Simon Ingot, Harry Hotto as Squire Chivy, Lillie Eldridge as Ada Ingot, Georgie Langley as Araminta Brown, M. B. Pike as Mr. Smith, Charles Webster as Mr. Brown, and Louisa Eldridge as Mrs. Smith. H. J. Allen, Emily Bell, Charles Jackson, Lane, and Hicks were also members of the company. Mile. Diana danced and Lizzie Wilmore played in the farce of "The Pretty Horse- breaker." Daniel E. Ralton and Tito Cellini, dancer, joined the company Aug. 30. " Blow for Blow " was acted Sept. 6, for the first time in New York : Geo. Boniface, John Drummond ; Harry
35°
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1872
Hotto, Charley Spraggs; Lillie Eldridge, Alice and Mildred; and Miss Wilmore, Kitty. The Queen Sisters were seen Sept. 13. "Jocrisse the Juggler" and "An Object of Interest" were acted. The season closed Sept. 18, when Charley White withdrew from the management.
The theatre was reopened Sept. 27, under the management of Edward G. Gilmore and Robert W. Butler, as a variety house, with the following company : Miles. Venturoli and Augusta, pre- mikres danseuses ; Rita Percy, statuary artist ; Annie Hindle, male impersonator; Annie Cornforth, Maud Alaska, the Clinetop Sisters, Lizzie Whelpley, Hattie Engel, Lottie La Point, Sheridan and Mack, Dick Ralph, Bob Hart, J. Gaynor, Bob Smith, Lew Brim- mer, J. H. Carton, J. F. McDonald, M. B. Pike, D. L. Morris, and Master Jerry.
J. H. Milburn appeared March 20. Harry Jackson was seen April 24 with his " Living Photographs. " Robert Butler with- drew April 30, and the new manager was Samuel Shapter. Josh Hart was the next manager, beginning Oct. 16, 1871, and con- tinuing until the close of the season of 1874-75. ^^ established it as a first-class variety theatre, and paid larger salaries than were ever before known in a variety house. Among those who appeared under his management were Harrigan and Hart, Johnny Wild, Charley White, Adah Richmond, Sam Rickey, Master Barney, Billy Carter, James Bradley, Kitty O'Neil, Jno. Gilbert, John Queen, Billy West, John Hart, Wm. Courtright, John Allen, Little Mac, Billy Barry, William Scanlan, Luke Schoolcraft, Geo. Coes, Hughey Dougherty, the Garnella Brothers, Harry Kernell, and many others.
June 3, 1872, the spectacular drama "Chicago Before the Fire, During the Fire, and After the Fire " was produced, with this cast:
Zeke Manford . . C. R. Thome, Jr. Jimmy Nickerson . . Lizzie Maddern Nick Nickerson . . . . J. Z. Little
Skaley Harry Hotto
Gus Farley .... Charles Norris Skyblue John Wild
Skeleton Jim ... E. D. Gooding
Bill James Bradley
DoUie Minnie Maddern
Bridget Nellie Sandford
Hettie Emma Maddox
This was the first appearance at this theatre of Charles R. Thome, Jr., Charles Norris, Lizzie Maddern, and Nellie Sandford.
On Aug. 19, 1872, John F. Poole and Thomas L. Donnelly were announced as managers. Josh Hart, lessee, and the house opened for the fall season entirely refitted and decorated.
On Dec. 2 Harrigan and Hart made their first appearance here, in "The Day We Went West" and "The Big and the Little of
1876: THEATRE COMIQUE 35 1
It." On Nov. 20, 1873, Mr. Hart gave a benefit for the poor of the Fourteenth Ward of this city.
Marie Zoe commenced Jan. 19, 1874, in "The French Spy." In the olio were the Snow Brothers (acrobats), Kate O'Connor, Royal Jeddo Japs, John Williams, Harrigan and Hart, and James McKee. On Jan. 26, Nully Pieris first appeared at this theatre. Prof. R. Nelson and sons also were seen, and J. F. Poole's drama, "Rent Day, or Hard Times," was acted. Early in February Ella Wesner, Mackin and Wilson, and Liza Weber appeared.
The season of 1874-75 opened Aug. 23, with the writer of these pages as manager of the house. The company was : Hughey Dougherty, John Allen, Little Mac, John Wild, Wm. Barry, Larry Tooley, James Bradley, Wm. Scanlan, W. Cronin, D. H. Kelley, J. F. Crossen, J. A. Graver, Geo. L. Stout, stage manager. " The Doyle Brothers " was the opening play. On Sept. 6 Jolly Nash, Harry Kernell, Ella Wesner, the Girards, the Garnellas, Wm. Harris and Carroll, Walters and Morton, Geo. Coes, and Luke Schoolcraft, the Majiltons, Jenny Engle, E. D. Davies, ventrilo- quist, and Master Barney appeared. " Night and Day " was also produced.
The season closed on July 5, 1875, with Johnny Allen and Alice Harrison in "Schneider." Harrigan and Hart withdrew from the house at the close of the season.
Many of the best variety performers in the business appeared here during this season, and the salaries paid to some were very large. The Boissets got ^300 per week. Little Mac, negro per- former, ^125, John Wild, minstrel, $12$, Delehanty and Cum- mings, song and dance, ^125, John Allen, $7$, Larry Tooley, $60, the Garnellas (two), acrobats, ^300, Walters and Morton, song and dance, ^125, Schoolcraft and Coes, minstrel performers, 1^150, Billy Barry, negro comedian, $7^, Barney and Rickey, ^250, Alf. Burnett, gioo, D. L. Morris, Dutch comedian, $60, the Ainsleys, ^80, and Cool Burgess, negro performer, $i$o. The expenses of running a first-class variety theatre like this were never less than ^3,200 on the week, which included the rent of the house; and frequently the expenses exceeded that amount, while the receipts averaged for many months over $4, 500 weekly.
On April 29, 1875, ^ matinee performance was given for the Dan Bryant benefit fund. In December Matt Morgan leased the house and opened with his living tableaux. A variety show was also given. On April 8, 1876, M. Campbell appeared with a sen- sational show of the Parisian " can-can " order, similar to one he managed at 585 Broadway, and which was stopped by the police. A dramatic season commenced May 29, with Milton Nobles as the star, in "The Phoenix."
Harrigan and Hart were the next lessees, with Martin Hanley as
352 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1863
manager. They began Aug. 7, 1876, with Adah Richmond, Billy- Carter, Alice Bennett, Fanny Bert, Ada Boshell, Billy Barry, Billy Gray, Larry Tooley, Almonta Brothers, John Williams, Quilter and Goldrich, J. A. Graver, Sam Holdsworth, P. E. Merritt, Alfred Beverly, Lizzie Henrie, Hannah Berch (Mrs. Tooley), G. W. H. Griffin, May Stuart, Delancy Barclay, and Minnie Wells, as their company.
On Oct. 23 N. C. Goodwin, Jr., appeared here as a mimic. The first appearance of Delehanty and Hengler and Louise Franklin (Louise Searle) took place Oct. 2. Ira Paine appeared Oct. 30. Harrigan's comic drama, "Darby and Lanty," was done Nov. 13, followed Nov. 20, by Harrigan's Irish drama, " Iscaine," introducing Welsh Edwards, J. Leslie Gossin, Chas. J. Fyffe, W. M. Ward, and Mrs. J. J. Prior. On Dec. 11 "St. Patrick's Day Parade" was seen; Dec. 18, "Ireland vs. Italy" and "Who Owns the Clothes Line ? " Charles T. White appeared in the sketch " The Happy Couple." The season closed May 26.
The next season began Aug. 11, 1877. Will H. Morton was heard in comic songs. Mr. Morton was manager for Mr. McCauU at the Broad Street Theatre, Philadelphia, season 1885-86; also manager of the Columbia Theatre, Chicago, 111., season 1887-88; and manager of Herrmann's Theatre, this city, i8go. On July 17, 1893, Mr. Morton was taken to Bloomingdale Asylum, suffering with paresis. His wife was Lily Post, the comic opera singer. He died in Pittsburg, Pa., November, 1895.
" Old Lavender " was first produced Sept. 3. The cast :
Dick Tony Hart
John T. G. Egbert
Smoke Billy Gray
Sally Millie Sackett
Old Lavender .... E. Harrigan
Phillip F. Chippendale
Pop G. W. H. Griffin
Laura Annie Mack
Mrs. Crawford . . Annie Yeamans
Alf. Burnett and Helen Nash opened Oct. 8. The season closed April 27, 1878.
"The Mulligan Guards" was produced Jan. 13, 1879. The "Mulligan Guard Ball" was first seen Feb. 9, 1879. The season closed May 24. The next season opened Aug. 11, 1879, "^^^^ "Mulligan Guard Chowder." Harrigan and Hart closed April 30, 1 88 1, and the house was soon after torn down and a large store erected on its site.
NIXON'S ALHAMBRA
A PAVILION erected by James M. Nixon, in August, 1863, on the south side of Fourteenth Street, between Third and Fourth avenues, directly opposite the Academy of Music, was known as "Nixon's Alhambra." It was a temporary affair, with
1864] THE HIPPOTHEATRON 353
board sides and canvas top. The "house" was divided off into two parts, pit and dress circle, the charges of admission being twenty-five cents, and fifty cents. James Reynolds commenced Sept. 14 as clown. M. Verrecke, who had been one of the attrac- tions, left Sept. 12, and he appeared at the New Bowery Theatre Sept. 21. Young Nicolo appeared Sept. 23 in the Zampillaerosta- tion act. Mme. Macarte, the English equestrienne, made her American d^but Oct. 12. The place closed Oct. 17, the weather getting too cold to sit under canvas.
THE HIPPOTHEATRON
ON the same lot previously occupied by Nixon's Alhambra was built "The Hippotheatron." The building was heated by steam. It was opened Feb. 8, 1864, with the following equestrian company: Mme. Marie Macarte, the Sherwood Family, Nat Austin (clown), Dan Gardner (clown), Sam Lathrop (clown), Wm. Kin- cade, Chas. Conrad, Richard Hemmings, C. W. Parker, Horace Nichols (ring master), James Cooke clown and manager, Eliza Gardner, Mr. Denzer. Mme. Denue also appeared the first night. Eaton Stone appeared here Feb. 15. Henry Cooke and his per- forming dogs and monkeys came Feb. 22. This was announced as the first appearance of the company in America, which was in- correct, as they were travelling through the country with a circus and were here the previous summer. Eaton Stone was the first bareback rider in this country and was the first equestrian to in- troduce somersaulting backwards, through hoops and over poles and banners, from the back of his horse while it was under full speed. M. , Verrecke (first appearance in America), gymnast, Mary Carroll (afterwards Mrs. Ben Maginley), who died Aug.' 18, 1874, and a company of Arabs were in the organization. The building was constructed of corrugated and ridged iron, and was fireproof. It was built after the model of the Champs Elysees, Paris. The main building was one hundred and ten feet in diameter, and the dome rose to the height of seventy-five feet, surmounted by a cupola. The iron roof was affixed to heavy- timber posts. The main supports of the dome were a series of columns surmounted by richly ornamented caps. These columns were also cased with corrugated iron. There were three distinct places for the auditors — the orchestra seats, dress circle, and the pit, with a wide promenade in the rear, around the entire circle of seats. The orchestra seats were composed of arm sofas for which seventy-five cents was charged. There were six hundred of these. In the rear was the dress circle, in which there was seating capacity for five hundred persons. The pit could accom- modate, comfortably seated, six hundred people. In addition to VOL. ir. — 23
354 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSBy
this, there was standing room in the promenade and other parts of the house capable of accommodating six hundred men, making standing room for fourteen hundred persons, and, when crowded, two thousand could be packed away. The ring was the largest (with the exception of a travelling show) ever used in the United States, being forty-three feet six inches, which is one foot six inches larger than Astley's in London, and six inches bigger than the Cirque Napoleon at Paris. There were two ring en- trances exactly opposite one another ; this item alone was a great improvement, both for spectacular pieces and for battoute leaping. There were two entrances to the building, the chief one being a beautiful portico in the shape of an Italian arch twenty-three feet high and twenty-two feet in width ; within was an interior vesti- bule twelve feet in depth, with wreathed columns and four niches, in which statues were placed. Over this entrance was the band, which was the dividing line between the twenty-five and fifty centres.
Spalding & Rogers' Circus Co., just returned from a two years' cruise in the seaports of Brazil, Buenos Ayres, Montevideo, and the West Indies, etc., took possession of this house April 25, 1864. A new roof was built, and they continued for four weeks, closing May 21. On Oct. 3 James M. Nixon commenced as man- ager, but he closed June 10, 1865. Was reopened for the winter season Sept. 25, 1865. Lewis B. Lent was manager, and Nat Austin director of amusements. In the company were El Nino Eddie, the Delevanti Brothers, G. F. Batchelor, T. Carpenter, Master Ashton, H. Bernard, R. Rivers, Nat. Austin, Frank Whit- taker, W. H. Young, F. Ashton, Ed. Croueste (clown). Miles. Ellsler, Minnie Grey, Soyer, Flora, H. Soyer, Mr. Hankins, and Mr. Carpenter. Dick Piatt (who was the owner of the establish- ment) disposed of it to Mr. Lent in October, who changed the title of it to "Lent's New York Circus," Nov. 6. He con- tinued the season until May 27, 1866. It was reopened by Mr. Lent Sept. 24, 1866. It had been announced to open on Sept. 1 1, but the epizootic prevailed to such an extent among the horses that he was compelled to defer it. During the summer recess many improvements were made in the building. The earth had been excavated, the ring and surrounding seats lowered, and a hanging gallery added, thereby materially increasing the seating capacity of the auditorium. Underneath the raised seats the dens of animals and museum curiosities were placed. The front en- trance was materially improved by alterations, and a large false front, entirely concealing the iron building from view, was erected and covered with large oil paintings, characteristic of the enter- tainments within, and the season terminated May 4, 1867. Dur- ing this period Carlotta De Berg, James Robinson, Ed. Croueste,
1872: THE HIPPOTHEATRON 355
Joe Pentland, Nat Austin, Richard Rivers, Robert Stickney, El Nino Eddie, James Melville and his family, Frank Conrad, the Levantine Brothers (one of the Levantine Brothers is now known as Frederick F. Proctor, manager of the many popular priced theatres, and formerly partner with H. R. Jacobs), the Runnells Family, James Madigan, and others appeared. Lewis B. Lent died in this city. May 26, 1887.
This place was reopened as "The Hippotheatron, " April 17, 1869, by Professor Risley, with a specialty company consisting of the Spanish ballet dancers, Azella Agouste, G. W. Jester, W. Hamilton, Lelia and Florence, Emma Alford, Clara Vernon, Sydney Franks, and Prof. Tanner. A benefit for the George Holland Fund took place Jan. 9, 1871. The receipts were $113.75.
George Kelly, for a long time considered the champion leaper of America, made his first appearance in this city here Feb. 6. He has " cleared " fifteen horses from the spring board on many oc- casions. As soon as Mr. Kelly was announced to appear, a "job" was put up among a few forming a clique at this establishment that he should not have a fair show. On the evening of his debut, the leaping act had commenced, and one of the leapers made his "run," when the wildest kind of applause rent the air, and he was cheered again and again. Mr. Kelly had no sooner commenced his "run " than he was njet with hisses and other marks of derision. He was naturally nervous on a first night, and, in consequence, made several misses. The crowd continued to hiss him, and he retired, closing his engagement that night.
Jule Kent, the clown, made his debut March 20. The season closed April 22.
Mr. Lent continued as manager until the summer of 1872, when it was sold to P. T. Barnum, who opened it Nov. 18 of that year. It was destroyed by fire Tuesday, Dec. 24, 1872. Fire was first discovered at four o'clock in the morning. The walls of the build- ing, which were of thin corrugated iron, became quickly heated by the fierce flames at their base, and helped not only to spread flames, but engendered so great a heat that the firemen could not enter the building. The animals in their cages began to show signs of fear, and their excitement increased with the noise and heat of the fire. They dashed with terrific force against the sides of their cages, vainly endeavoring to regain their liberty. There were three elephants in the building, confined by chains fastened to the floor. As the fire grew hotter the bears, lions, and leopards were seen with their paws endeavoring to wrench the iron bars of their cages asunder, and, as the flames or heat prevented their keepers from rescuing them, they were abandoned to their fate. None of the keepers had the keys of any of the cages, other-
356 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisee
wise some of the animals could have been saved. All the per- formers lost their wardrobes, and all the dresses which had been made for " Bluebeard " were likewise consumed. A number of val- uable trained dogs belonging to Charles White were also burned.
THE NEW STADT THEATRE
AT 43, 45, 47 Bowery, east side, directly opposite the Old Bowery Theatre, was the "New Stadt Theatre." It was erected in 1864 by a company of Germans, and opened Tuesday, Sept. 6, 1864. It was five stories high, used as a hotel, with a wide entrance to the theatre, which was in the rear of the hotel. The auditorium was the largest of any theatre in the country, hav- ing a parquet and three tiers, with a capacity for thirty-five hundred persons. Otto von Hoym was the acting manager, with Mme. Steglich, Fuchs, Mme. Otto von Hoym, Miss Petersen, Miss Hesse, Otto von Hoym, Knorr, and others in the company. The stars who appeared during the first season were Daniel E. Band- mann, Mme. Methua-Scheller, Chas. Pope, and others of note, including Mme. Ottilie Genee, Becker-Grahn, Mertzke, Walter- Goerner, and the operatic singers, Johanna Rosser, and Rosins Reiss, Edward Haerting, Alphonse Zerboni, all of whom made their first American successes under Hoym's management. Charles Pope played Othello in German, to Mme. Methua-Scheller's Des- demona, Dec. 23, 1864. For two weeks in July, 1865, a magician called the " Fakir of Vishnu " occupied the house. The season of 1865-66 was Hoym's last complete one in this city. Bogumil Dawison made his American debut Sept. 20, 1866, supported by Otto von Hoym. He acted in "Othello," "Narcisse," "The Robbers," "The Merchant of Venice," "The King's Lieutenant," "Three Winters of a Poet," " Faust," " Richard III.," "The Miser," "The Unfortunate," "Hans Juerge," "The Viennoise in Paris," and "Two Days in the Life of a Prince." He closed his engage- ment Nov. 5.
Otto von Hoym began a star engagement Nov. 6, in the r61e of Narcisse, and played for four weeks, and his last important pro- fessional act in this country was the production, for his benefit on Nov. 27, of the tragedy of "Maximilian," written by Dr. Krack of this city, and commanding an abnormal attention, on account of having for its basis the life of Emperor Maximilian, the hap- less temporary ruler of Mexico. He returned to his native land (Saxony) in 1868. While on his way to Auerbach, he died at Darmstadt, Oct. 29, 1870, of internal hemorrhage. In 1861 he was instrumental in raising the Forty-second Regiment of N. Y. Vol- unteers, and as captain of Company H he accompanied it to the seat of war, his partner, Herr Hamann, meanwhile conducting
1868] THE NEW STADT THEATRE 357
the theatre. At White Oak Swamp, Va., June 30, 1862, in the "Seven Days' Fight," he was wounded and taken prisoner. Hav- ing been exchanged he reappeared at the Old Stadt, and his recep- tion was one of the events of the season of 1862-63.
Ottilie Genee was the next star at this house, followed Dec. 19 by Eugenie Schmitz in "Therese Kroners." Bogumil Dawison acted the Duke of Alba, Jan. i, 1867. Among those who appeared here during this season were Herren Theo. L'Arronge, Julius Herrmann, Kaps, Dombrowsky, Colmer, Lange, Knorr, Stemmler, Klein, and Fortner, and Miss Magda Irschink, Miss Rhode, Mme. Becker-Grahn, Mme. Augusta Steglich, and Mile. Laura Haffner.
Bogumil Dawison opened his second engagement Feb. 25, and appeared in "Don Carlos," "The Marquis de Maillefort," "Uriel Acosta," " Wallenstein's Death," " Dr. Robin " (" David Garrick "), and "The Rag Picker of Paris." He closed March 25. Theodore L'Arronge made his initial bow April 5, as Windmiller in "The Father of the Debutante, " and as Herbert Levy in " Paris in Pom- mem." D. E. Bandmann reappeared April 23. Dawison com- menced his third and farewell engagement May 7. He made his last appearance in America May 21, when the season closed. The theatre was reopened Aug. 3, 1867, for one week, by B. F. Dugan and Caroline Hayes. Geo. C. Davenport, James H. Budworth, Frank Evans, D. C. Ralton, John Jack, James M. Ward, Blanche Chapman, and others were in the company. " The Streets of New York" and "The Peep o' Day" were acted. Mme. Hedwig L'Ar- ronge-Sury made her American debut Sept. 6, 1867, in "Die Schone Galathee." Three German dwarfs — Jean Petit, Jean Pic- colo, and Kis Jozsi — appeared Oct. 5. Olga de Plittersdorf made her New York d6but Oct. 30 as Marie Stuart.
Edward Eddy appeared here June 8, 1868, with the following company : J. B. Studley, James M. Ward, Sam Ryan, M. B. Pike, Haviland, E. L. Tilton, Henrietta Irving, Millie Sackett, and Mrs. Dan Myron. "The Phantom Captain" and "The Rose of Ettrick Vale" were given, followed by "Damon and Pythias," "The Irish Haymaker," "The Irish Schoolmaster," "The Men of Sicily," "Brian Boroihme," "Jack Sheppard," "Pizarro," "Monte Cristo," "The Mountain Outlaw," and "The Billboard Grabber, or the Marquis of Tweedyville." James W. Lingard acted Blueskin in "Jack Sheppard" June 27, for Sam Ryan's benefit.
The following season Hamann & Rosenberg were the managers, who opened Aug. 31 with Mosenthal's play, "Der Schultze von Altenbueren." Singer, Irschink, Schermann, Haffner, Schmitz, Mme. Becker-Grahn, and Herren Jendersky, stage manager, Dom- browsky, Herrmann, Knorr, and Kohnar were of the company. Hermann Hendrick made his American debut Sept. i in the title rdle of " Duke Albrecht. " This was followed by " William Tell "
358 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1871
and "Julius Caesar," in which he played Marc Antony. Mile. Augusta de Baerndorff made her American d^but Nov. 6. She acted until Dec. 14, but reappeared in February, 1869.
Frederick Haase first appeared before an American audience March 4, 1869, as Lord Harleigh, in "Sie ist Wahnsinnig," and as Rath Fein in "Ein Hoefecher Mann." Haase and Mile. Baern- dorff appeared in " Nacht und Morgen " May 6. The season closed May 15. Risley's Japanese troupe had a short summer season; Carl Bergman gave two performances June 4, 5, of German opera, with Frederici-Himmer, Johannsen, Herren Himmer, Weinlich, Steinecke, and others in "Faust" and "Der Freischiitz." A sea- son of German opera was opened Sept. 17. "Der Zauberflote," "La Juive," "Faust," "Fidelio," "Don Juan," "Masaniello," "Fra Diavolo," and "Der Freischiitz" were sung by Johanna Rotter-Dieffenbach, Mme. Frederici-Himmer, Mile. Bertha Jo- hannsen, Mile. Sand, Herren Himmer, Wilhelm Formes, Joseph Weinlich, Steinecke, Joseph Herrmann, Armand, and Groeschel. The manager was H. Grau. This company closed Oct. 10. The Franko Family gave Sunday evening concerts. Opera bouffe was inaugurated about the middle of October, and continued until March, 1870. For Joseph Weinlich's benefit April 8 was sung "La Juive," with Beethoven's Maennachor chorus, in addition to the regular chorus.
A season of German opera opened Oct. 5 with "The Merry Wives of Windsor." Marie Seebach appeared here in October. On Jan. 9, 1871, she was seen as Mary Stuart. This lady's en- gagement continued until March 11, when the season closed. The productions were: "Love and Intrigue," Jan. 12; "Faust," Jan. 13-28; "Deborah," Jan. 14; "Romeo and Juliet," Jan. 16 and Feb. i; "Lorle," Jan. 17; "Robbers," Jan, 18; "Taming of the Shrew," Jan. 19; "Adrienne Lecouvreur," Jan. 20; "Griselda," Jan, 21-27; "Egmont," Jan. 23; "Marianne," Jan. 24; "Ma- thilde," Jan. 25; "Taueschung auf Taueschung," Jan. 26; "Joan of Arc," Jan. 30; "Einen Jux Will Er Sich Machen," Feb, 2; "Dorf Und Stadt," Feb. 3; "Emilia Gallotti," Feb. 7; "Ann Eliza," Feb. 8; "Katchen von Heilbroun," Feb. 11; "Uriel Acosta," Feb. 14; "Hamlet," Feb. 15, for Seebach's benefit, Seebach as Hamlet; "Jane Eyre," Feb. 18; "Die Grille" ("Fan- chon"), Feb. 20, 21 ; "Tears and Laughter" and "After the Battle of Sedan," Feb. 25, for Mme. Seebach's benefit; March 6, 7, "Isabella Orsini."
The season closed March 10, with the farewell appearance here of this actress. This lady's work was more finished in detail, and complete in conception than that of any foreign actress who has visited America since Rachel.
A season of German opera began March 1 1 with " The Merry
1875: THE NEW STADT THEATRE 359
Wives of Windsor." "Lohengrin" was sung March 12 for the first time in America.
Carl Rosa and A. NeuendorfE reopened this house Sept. 18 with German opera and the American debut of Europe's greatest tenor, Theo. Wachtel, in "The Postillion of Lonjumeau." The prices of admission were, according to location: $4, $s, $2, $1.50, ^i, 75 cts., and 50 cts. The night of his debut the house was crowded as it never was before, by an audience that nearly burst out the walls of the theatre. Wachtel was idolized by his countrymen as the possessor of a phenomenal voice, an organ of the rarest beauty, strength, and compass ; as a singer whose method charmed the ear and heart, and as an actor whose ability would have secured to him honors on the dramatic stage. He died in Berlin in November, 1893, sixty-nine years of age. He was the first German singer to sing in Paris; this was in 1869. He came to America in 1871, also in 1875.
Oct. 14-16, "Lucia" was sung; Oct. 18, "Der Freischiitz;" Oct. 20, "Martha;" matin6e, Oct. 28, "The Postillion De Lonjumeau;" matinees, Nov. 3-14, "II Trovatore. " Wachtel closed Nov. 15 with "The Postillion." Marschner's "The Templar and the Jewess" was produced Jan. 29, 1872, with Mme. Fabbri-Mulder as Rebecca, Mr. Bernhard as Ivanhoe, Karl Formes as Friar Tuck, Habelman as Wamba. Miss Rosetti and Mr. Mueller, baritone, were also in the cast. W. H. Martin bought this house Aug. 21, 1872, for ^122,000. "The Secrets of New York, or the Jesuits of America," a new German play, was advertised to be performed (Sunday evening) Jan. 19, 1873, but the performance was stopped by the police.
Mile. lima di Murska commenced a series of German operatic performances May 7, 1874, as Isabella in "Robert the Devil." Lina Meyr appeared Feb. 6, 1875, in the opera "Der Freischiitz."
P. S. Gilmore, with his Twenty-second Regiment Band, ap- peared at a concert Sunday evening, Feb. 7, assisted by Lina Meyr, prima donna; M. Arbuckle, cornetist; E. A. Lefebre, saxophone soloist, and others.
The Grau and Chizzola French Opera Bouff6 company appeared Oct. 15, 187s, in "La Fille de Madame Angot." Mme. Geoffrey was seen Oct. 22, it being her first and only appearance in " Girofle Girofla. " The United North German Military Band first appeared Nov. 14 and repeated the concert Nov. 21.
This theatre was opened Nov. 22, 1875, by B. F. Dugan. Wil- liam H. Whalley, J. B. Studley, Rachel Denvil, Geo. C. Daven- port, and Belle Wallace were in the company. The opening bill was "The Robbers" and "Black Eyed Susan." German perform- ances were shortly afterwards resumed and continued for some time.
360 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D880
The Pappenheim German Opera company, under the conductor- ship of Carl Bergman, appeared in "Faust," with Eugene Pappen- heim as Margaretha. For one night only — Feb. 22, 1878 — the Pappenheim-Adams Opera company appeared in "Lohengrin."
Robert W. Butler leased the house July 4, 1878, and opened it with a specialty performance, but only continued a short time as business was bad. He reopened the house for the regular season, Aug. 19, with a dramatic company, in conjunction with specialty people. Charles L. Farwell was stage manager. John Thomp- son opened in "On Hand," Sept. 2; "Moses Abraham, the Old Clothes Dealer," Sept. g. This house was christened "The City Theatre" on Sept. 16, and opened with Wm. J. Fleming in "The Drunkard." Its name was changed to the "WINDSOR Theatre" Nov. 11. The first business manager of the house was Bobby Newcomb, and his opening attraction was a specialty and dramatic company and Sid. C. France in the drama " Marked for Life. " After having remained without a permanent manager for some months, it was reopened March i, 1880, John A. Stevens and Frank J. Murtha as managers. Frank Murtha's was the only name used for some time as manager, as John A. Stevens, for obvious reasons, abstained from having his announced. From the first night the theatre was a very great success, and in a few months Murtha & Stevens were the announced managers. Their first attraction was Buffalo Bill and his company of Indians in "The Scout of the Plains." Joseph Proctor was the attraction week of March 29, followed April 5 by "A Celebrated Case;" April 12, Tony Denier's "Humpty Dumpty" company, with George H. Adams as Grimaldi; April 19, Oliver Doud Byron, in "Across the Continent," for one week; and April 26, in "One Thousand Miles Away," for six nights; May 3 John A. Stevens did " Unknown ; " May 10 and 17, Maude Forrester, for two weeks, in "Mazeppa;" May 24, Harry Richmond and Von Boyle, in "Our Candidate;" May 31, George C. Boniface in "Soldier's Trust;" June 7, Sprague's Georgia minstrels; June 14, James A. Heme in "Hearts of Oak;" June 21, " Inshavogue, " with J. F. Peters the star; June 28, William H. Leake in "The Three Guardsmen;" July 5, Kate Claxton and Chas. A. Stevenson in "The Double Marriage," for three nights and matin6e; "The Two Orphans," for three evenings and matinee; July 12, Norcross' Opera company in "Trial by Jury" and "Pinafore." The house was closed week of July 19, and reopened for one week July 26, with N. S. Wood in "Jack Sheppard."
The next season began Aug. 16, 1880, with "A Celebrated Case," Edmund Collier and Anna Boyle in the cast; Aug. 23, Buffalo Bill in "The Prairie Waif; " Aug. 30, Ada Gray in "East Lynne," supported by Isidore Davidson. This bill was given Aug. 31 and
1880 WINDSOR THEATRE 361
Sept. I, followed for three nights and matinee with "A Friend Indeed;" Sept. 6, Annie Ward Tiffany was seen in "Prejudice," three evenings and matinee, and " The Child Stealer " balance of the week ; Oliver Doud Byron acted " Across the Continent " Sept. 13, 14, 15, and "One Thousand Miles Away" the rest of the week; Mrs. F. S. Chanfrau, with Harry Courtaine as principal support, appeared Sept. 20, in "Christie Johnstone;" Sept. 27, Frank I. Frayne came in " Si Slocum ; " Oct. 4 " Unknown " was done with John A. Stevens, Lottie Church, W. F. Bailey, Angle Griffith, Geo. F. Ketchum, Mamie Wilson, Charles Abbott, and Spencer Pritch- ard in the cast; "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was given Oct. 11, with bloodhounds, donkeys, and colored jubilee singers ; Geo. C. Boni- face and Ada Cavendish appeared Oct. 15 in "The New Magda- len ; " " The Four Seasons " came week Oct. 25 ; J. B. Studley in "Monte Cristo," Nov. i; Charlotte Thompson, Nov. 8, in "The Planter's Wife;" Nov. 15, F. S. Chanfrau in "Kit;" Kate Clax- ton in "The Snow Flower," Nov. 22, 23, 24, and "The Two Orphans," Nov. 25, 26, 27; Marie Wellesley, Nov. 29, in "The Old Cross," for six evenings; Dec. 6, N. S. Wood in "Jack Shep- pard," with Mrs. W. G. Jones, Joseph Winter, and Maggie Weston in the cast. Nellie Holbrook opened Dec. 13 in "Hamlet," sup- ported by Daniel Waller. This was her first appearance in this city. " Hamlet " was repeated Dec. 14, followed by " East Lynne " Dec. IS, 16, 17; and matinee and evening, Dec. 18, "East Lynne" and "Hamlet;" Dec. 20, N. D. Roberts' "Humpty Dumpty " company came; Dec. 27, Katharine Rogers was seen in "Led Astray," with Harry Meredith and Lottie Church in the cast.
On Jan. 3, 1881, J. B. Studley appeared here in "The Bells;" Jan. 10, Mr. and Mrs. McKee Rankin in "The Danites;" Jan. 17, Buffalo Bill in "The Prairie Waif;" Jan. 24, Oofty Gooft (Gus Phillips) in "Under the Gaslight;" Jan. 31, Salsbury's Troubadours in "The Brook." "Uncle Tom's Cabin," Feb. 7, followed Feb. 14 by the Rentz-Santley company in "Don Juan, Jr.;" Feb. 21, Gus Williams in "Our German Senator;" Feb. 28, "The Legion of Honor," with Sara Piercy, Annie Graham, and Lewis Morrison as the stars; March 7, "Boccaccio," by H. B. Mahn's opera company, with Jennie Winston as the star; Lester Wallack appeared March 14 for one week in " Rosedale ; " March 21, Frank Frayne in "Mardo the Hunter." James O'Neill and Lillian Glover were seen in "Richelieu," March 28, 29, 30, and "Lady of Lyons," March 31, April i, 2; Tony Denier's "Humpty Dumpty" company came April 4 for a week; Prof. Herrmann with magic April 11; Goesche & De Wolf Hopper's company in "One Hundred Wives," April 18; Annie Pixley, April 25, in "M'liss," with John E. Macdonough as Yuba Bill; May 2, Joseph Murphy in "Kerry Gow;" May 9, Neil Burgess in
362 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1882
"Widow Bedotte;" May 16, Mr. and Mrs. George Knight in "Otto;" May 23, Baker and Farron in "The Emigrants," and the season closed May 28. Anna Boyle, supported by William Stafford, began a summer season May 30 in "The Lady of Lyons," repeated May 31 ; "The Merchant of Venice," June 2, 3, 4, $. As Bassanio John T. Malone made his New York d^but. "Fan- chon," week June 6; "Othello" for six nights, opening June 13, Stafford as the Moor, Anna Boyle as Desdemona, and Fred Warde as lago. "Romeo and Juliet," matinee, June 18, and nights of June 22, 23, 24; "Hamlet," June 20, 21, 22.
The next season began Aug. 15, 1881, with "The Galley Slave," Maud Granger, Gussie De Forrest, Frank Evans, and Thomas H. Burns in the cast; Aug. 22, "Evangeline" was seen with Eliza Wethersby and Nellie Larkelle in the cast ; Aug. 29, Baker and Farron in "Up Salt Creek;" Sept. 5, James Heme with "Hearts of Oak;" Sept. 12, George Hoey and James M, Hardie's company in "A Child of the State;" Sept. 19, "The Legion of Honor," with Sam'l Piercy, Lewis Morrison, and Annie Graham in the principal characters ; Sept. 26, Oliver Doud Byron in "Ten Thousand Miles Away;" Oct. 3, Geo. Clarke was the star in "Connie Soogah;" Oct. 10, the Kiralfy Bros.' spectacular, "Around the World in Eighty Days," in which De Rosa and Carnis were the premikre danseuses. Oct. 17, George S. Knight in "Baron Rudolph;" Oct. 24, "My Partner," with Louis Aldrich and Chas. T. Parsloe as the stars; Oct. 31, the Madison Square Theatre travelling company in "Hazel Kirke;" Nov. 7, "One Hundred Wives," by Goesche and De Wolf Hopper's company; Nov. 14, Barney Macauley in " A Messenger from Jarvis Section ; " Nov. 21, "Two Nights in Rome," with Jeffreys Lewis as the star; Nov. 28, Ben Maginley in "Deacon Crankett;" Dec. S, "Uncle Tom's Cabin;" Dec. 12, Mestayer & Co. 's " Tourists ; " Mme. Janauschek opened Dec. 19 in "Marie Stuart," repeated Dec. 22; "Deborah," Dec. 20, 23; "Bleak House," Dec. 21; "Macbeth," Dec. 24; "Mother and Son," matinees, Dec. 21, 24. John A. Stevens appeared Dec. 26 in "Unknown," supported by Lottie Church. There were three matinees this week, viz., Mon- day, Wednesday, and Saturday.
Jan. 2, 1882, Tony Denier' s company were seen in the panto- mime, "Humpty Dumpty;" Jan. 9, Joseph K. Emmet, the star; Jan. 16, "Buffalo Bill" (Wm. F. Cody) appeared in "The Prairie Waif;" Jan. 23, "The Two Orphans," with Kate Claxton, Chas. A. Stevenson, Marie Wilkins, and Edwin F. Thorne in the cast; Jan. 30, Joseph Murphy in "Kerry Gow; " Feb. 6, Sol Smith Russell, in "Edgewood Folks;" Feb. 13, Mr. and Mrs McKee Rankin in "'49;" Feb. 20, "The Banker's Daughter-" Feb 27, Milton Nobles in "The Phoenix;" March 6, "All the Rage-"
1882: WINDSOR THEATRE 363
March 13, "The Jolly Bachelors; " March 20, "The Galley Slave," with Emily Rigl, Frank Evans, Gussie De Forrest, Thomas H. Burns, and Junius Brutus Booth in the company ; March 27, Den Thompson in "Joshua Whitcomb;" April 3, M. B. Curtis in "Sam'l of Posen;" Maggie Mitchell appeared here April 10 in "Fanchon," which was repeated April 11 and 12; "Pearl of Savoy," April 13, 14, 15; "Fun on the Bristol," John F. Sheri- dan as the star; April 24, Frank S. Chanfrau in "Kit;" May i, Annie Pixley in "M'liss;" May 8, Lotta in "Musette or Little Bright Eyes;" May 15, James O'Neill in "A Celebrated Case;" May 22, "The Professor;" May 29, James O'Neill as Ossip in "The Danicheffs;" June S for two weeks Charles L. Davis pre- sented " Alvin Joslin ; " June 19, " The Maid of Arran ; " June 26, "The Mascot," with George Olmi, Pauline Hall, W. M. Fuller, and May Templeton in the cast; July 3, N. S. Wood in "The Boy Scout of the Sierras," with Mrs. W. G. Jones and Joseph P. Winters in the cast. The season closed July 8.
The next season began Aug. 14, 1882, with Mr. and Mrs. McKee Rankin in "The Danites." McKee Rankin claims the distinction of being the first actor and manager to take a complete American company to Europe. He took the following people with him: Cora Tanner, Lillian Cleves Clark, Mrs. E. M. Holland, Isabella Waldron and daughter, Ed. Marble, Mrs. W. H. Sheridan, Matt Lingham, George Waldron, E. M. Holland, Lin Hurst, James Peakes, Jerry Stevens, William and Harry Lee, Harry Hawk, and Mrs. McKee Rankin. They opened at Sadler's Wells Theatre, London, April 2, 1880, shortly after their arrival, and played eight weeks ; thence to the Globe Theatre in the same city, for balance of the summer. After playing three weeks at the Standard Theatre, London, they made a provincial tour, returning to New York the following December. "The Danites" was the play presented.
Aug. 21, Charlotte Thompson appeared here in "Jane Eyre;" Aug. 28, James A. Heme, in "Hearts of Oak;" Sept. 4, "The Gal- ley Slave;" Sept. 11, Salsbury's Troubadours in "Green Room Fun," with Nellie McHenry and N. Salsbury as the stars. Alice Dunning Lingard and William Horace Lingard appeared Sept. 18 in "Divor9ons," which was repeated Sept. 19 and matinee, Sept. 20; "Pink Dominos," Sept. 20, 21, 23; "Camille," Sept. 22 and matinee, Sept. 23 ; Minnie Palmer came in " My Sweetheart " Sept. 25; Oct. 2, Joseph Murphy in "Shaun Rhue;" Oct. 9, "Lights of London;" Oct. 16, William J. Scanlan in "Friend and Foe;" Oct. 23, "The World," with Robert Mantell, and M. B. Pike in the cast ; Oct. 30, Geo. S. Knight in " Baron Rudolph ; " Nov. 6, "Mankind," by Aug. Daly's travelling company; Nov. 13, Oliver Doud Byron in "Across the Continent;" repeated Nov.
364 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1883
14, IS; "Ten Thousand Miles Away," Nov. 16, 17, and 18; Mme. Janauschek appeared Nov. 20, in "Marie Antoinette," which was repeated Nov. 21; "Bleak House," Nov. 22, 23; "Mary Stuart," Nov. 24, 25; and "Mother and Son," matinees, Nov. 22, 25; "Hazel Kirke" was seen Nov. 27; Dec. 4, Callender-Haverly's minstrels; Dec. 11, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. J. Florence in "The Mighty Dollar;" Lawrence R Barrett, Dec. 18, in "Richelieu;" Dec. 19, "Hamlet;" matinee, Dec. 20, "Yorick's Love;" Dec. 21, "Othello;" Dec. 22, "The Merchant of Venice" and "David Garrick;" matinee, Dec. 23, "The Marble Heart;" evening, Dec. 23, "Richard III.;" John A. Stevens came Dec. 25 in "Unknown."
On Jan. i, 1883, Tony Denier's company were seen in "Humpty Dumpty," with Alfred Frisbie Macio as the clown; Jan. 8, the Hanlon Bros., in "Le Voyage en Suisse;" Jan. 15, Buffalo Bill in "Twenty Days, or Buffalo Bill's Pledge." John A. Stevens' new play, "Passion's Slave" was produced Jan. 22, with Ellie Wilton, Gabrielle du Sauld, Frankie McClellan, Lilla Vane, John Jack, Wm. J. Ferguson, Welsh Edwards, Henry Holland, Harry Colton, Thaddeus Shine, and John A. Stevens in the cast; B. McAuley (who had changed the spelling of his name in consequence of some family difficulty) came Jan. 29, in " A Messenger from Jarvis Section;" Feb. 5, "Jesse James;" Feb. 12, "Esmeralda," by the Madison Square Theatre travelling company, including Kate Denin Wilson, John E. Owens, Annie Russell, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Walcot, and Charles B. Welles; Feb. 19, "My Partner," with Louis Aldrich and Charles T. Parsloe; Feb. 26, Lester Wallack played his first engagement in the Bowery in two years, opening in "Rosedale," which was continued all the week. For the matinee, Feb. 28, Jerome Hopkins' new operetta "Taffy" was presented by the little girls of the Twentieth Street Grammar School; March 5, "The Long Strike," with Joseph Wheelock, Sara Jewett, J. H. Stoddart, Mabel Leonard, and Edward L. Tilton in the cast; March 12, John T. Raymond in "In Paradise;" March 19, M. B. Curtis in "Sam'l of Posen;" March 26, "The Corsican Brothers," F. C. Bangs as the twin heroes; April 2, Frank Mayo was seen in " The Streets of New York ; " April 9, " The Pro- fessor;" April 16, Prof. Herrmann and his specialty company; April 23, Mr. and Mrs. McKee Rankin in "'49;" April 30, Annie Pixley in "M'liss," Geo. C. Boniface as Yuba Bill; May 7, Edwin F. Thorne in "The Black Flag;" May 14, Tony Pastor's specialty company; May 21, first production of John A. Stevens' drama, "Her Second Love," with Maud Granger, Geo. C. Boni- face, John Jack, Chas. B. Welles, and M. C. Daly in the cast; May 28, Harry Meredith in "Ranch 10;" June 4, Ada Gray in "East Lynne;" June ir, "Alvin Joslin;" June 18, "A Wife's
1886;]
WINDSOR THEATRE
3^5
Honor," for the first time, with George F. Learock, Marston, Lizzie Fletcher, Sydney Armstrong, Edith de Belleville, J. E. Nagle, and W. Arthur Giles in the cast; June 25, "Kentuck," with Henry Colton, Frank Mordaunt, Abbie Pierce, Annie Ward Tiffany, and Bobby Newcomb in the company; July 2, "Uncle Tom's Cabin;" July 9, Charles B. Bishop, in "Strictly Busi- ness;" July 16, Ignatius O'Byrne in "The Leprachaun." The season closed July 21.
The next season began Aug. 13, 1883, with "The White Slave;" Aug. 20, James H. Wallick in "The Bandit King;" Aug. 27, " Carrots," by Adah Richmond, R. E. Graham, and company; Sept. 3, J. J. Dowling in "Nobody's Claim;" Sept. 10, "The Tourists;" Sept. 17, "Lights o' London;" Sept. 24, "The Devil's Auction;" Oct. I, "Hearts of Oak;" Oct. 8, Oliver Doud Byron in "Hero;" Oct. IS, F. S. Chanfrau in "Kit," repeated Oct. 16 and 17; "The Octoroon," Oct. 18, 19, and 20; Joseph Murphy in "Shaun Rhue," Oct. 22, supported by Belle Melville; Oct. 29, " Siberia;" Nov. S, Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Florence in "The Ticket of Leave Man;" Nov. 12, Augustin Daly's company in "The Passing Regiment;" Nov. 19, W. J. Scanlan in "Friend and Foe." "My Partner" was put on Nov. 26, for the week, but the house was totally destroyed by fire Thursday, Nov. 29, 1883. The fire began at the entrance of the theatre. The performance of " My Partner " had terminated, and the audience had left the theatre about an hour before the fire broke out.
Nothing was done towards rebuilding the theatre for over two years. Finally Mr. Martin, the former owner of the property, erected a new theatre much smaller than the other. It was leased to Frank Murtha, who opened it Feb. 8, 1886, on a five years' lease. The opening star was Clara Morris in " Miss Multon," re- peated Feb. 8, 9, 10. The cast was :
Miss Multon .... Clara Morris Gravesand . . . . L. W. Browning
Mathilda Bijou Heron
Arabella . . . Mrs. M. A. Farren
Kitty Ada Crisp
Maurice Eben Plympton
M. Belin J. L. Carhart
Dr. Osborne .... Carl Ahrend
Paul Clara Ogden
June Viva Ogden
Louise Marion Lester
On the opening night Judge David McAdam read an address. After the second act of the play Frank Murtha came before the curtain, led by A. H. Hummel, and was presented with a diamond- studded watch and chain. "Article 47," Feb. 11, 12; "Camille," Feb. 13, Affie Weaver acting Camille, supported by the Clara Morris' company. The next attraction was the Madison Square Theatre company, including Agnes Booth, Maud Harrison, Annie Russell, Frederic Robinson, and Walden Ramsay, in "Young Mrs. Win-
366 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D887
throp." Louis Aldrich commenced Feb. 22 in "My Partner/' and was succeeded March i by James O'Neill in " Monte Cristo ; " March 8, Frederic Bryton in " Forgiven ; " March 15, " The Planter's Wife," with Louise Balfe and Harry Lacy in principal r61es ; March 22, Oliver Doud Byron in "Hero;" March 29, " The Ivy Leaf/' April 5, Georgia Cayvan and Ben Maginley in " May Blossoms ; " April 12, Ed. Collier in " Stormbeaten ; " April 19, J. H. Wal- lick's "Bandit King;" April 26, Rose Coghlan in "Our Joan;" May 3, Minnie Maddern, "In Spite of AH;" May 10, W. J. Mestayer with "We, Us & Co.;" May 17, Annie Pixley in "M'liss;" May 24, Joseph Murphy in " Shaun Rhue," for three evenings, and "Kerry Gow" balance of the week; May 31, Baker and Farron in " A Soap Bubble ; " June 7, " Peck's Bad Boy ; " June 14, "Colleen Bawn;" June 21, "Confusion;" June 28, "Tourists in a Pullman Car;" July 5, 6, 7, "Leah;" July 8, 9, 10, " Romeo and Juliet;" July 12, "Brother Against Brother; "and the season closed with N. S. Wood as Jack Sheppard, July 24.
The next season began Aug. 16 with Fred Warde and his com- pany in "Virginius," repeated Aug. 17, 20; "Ingomar," Aug. 18; Aug. 21, "Damon and Pythias;" Aug. 19, "Richard III.;" matinee, Aug. 21, "The Lady of Lyons;" Aug. 23, "Youth" was seen ; Aug. 30, " A Prisoner for Life ; " Sept. 6, " The White Slave;" Sept. 13, Fred Bryton in "Forgiven;" Sept. 20, J. New- ton Beers in " Lost in London ; " Sept. 27, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Knight in "Over the Garden Wall." Janauschek appeared Oct. 4 in "Mother and Son," repeated matinee, Oct. 6; "Bleak House," Oct. 5; "Marie Antoinette," evening, Oct. 6; "Henry VIII.," Oct. 8; "Mary Stuart," matinee, Oct. 9; evening, Oct. 9, "Mac- beth." Clara Morris came in "Article 47," Oct. 11, 12; "The NewMadgalen," Oct. 13, 14; "Miss Multon," Oct. 15; "Camille," matinee, Oct. 16. Evening Oct. 16, Mary Shaw acted "Camille," supported by Henry Miller and the Clara Morris' company; Oct. 18, "Our Boarding House;" Oct. 25, Ben Maginley as Uncle Bartlett in " May Blossom ; " Nov. i, Oliver Doud Byron in " The Inside Track;" Nov. 8, "Taken from Life," with Phosa McAllister as the star ; Nov. 15, " Stormbeaten ; " Nov. 22, " A Bunch of Keys ; " Nov. 29, Annie Pixley in "M'liss." Louis James commenced his first engagement in New York as a star Dec. 6, in "Virginius," which he repeated Dec. 7 and 11; "Hamlet" was given Dec. 8; "Othello," Dec. 9; "Merchant of Venice" and "Taming of the Shrew," Dec. 10; and "Romeo and Juliet," matinee of Dec. 11; Dec. 13, "Siberia; "Dec. 20, James O'Neill with "Monte Cristo;" Dec. 27, Tony Denier's "Humpty Dumpty " company. Fred Warde played "Galba" for the first time in this city Jan. 10, 1887. "False Steps" by Joseph Nunez was seen, for the first time in New York, June 27, and had this -cast:
WINDSOR THEATRE
367
Mr. Fielding . Therese . . . Bertha . . . Mrs. Bounceford Geraldine . .
Harry Rich
. Hattie Russell
Belle Shreve
. . Amy Ames
Frances Summer
Dr. Bonum Simon . . Henri Conde Oscar Stanley Maggie . .
[J. H. Fitzpatrick
C. H. Bradshaw
. Lester Victor
. Gus Henessey
Ada Deaves
The next season opened Aug. 15 with "Gwynnes' Oath," which had this cast :
Sir Pearce Parker . R. F. McClannin Jim Richards . . . Geo. R. Edeson Richard Welbeck . Nelson Wheatcroft Miss Willoughby Parker,
Emma Skerrett
Gilbert Archer . Adeline Stanhope
Harry Herbert Archer
Gussy Ernest Tarlton
Bessy Smith . . . Isabella Irving
"The White Slave" was seen Aug. 29. Sept. 5, "Zozo, the Magic Queen," came, with George H. Adams and Pauline Monte- grippa as the stars; Sept. 12, Newton Beers, in "Lost in Lon- don;" Sept. 19, "Two Roads, " by James Garden, was given, with this cast:
Allen Van Dome Jerome Madden . Herbert Reardon . Jessie Van Dome Alice Van Dome
. James Garden E. Murray Day . Ivan Peronet . Belle Stokes Marston Leigh
William Wolf Susan Buck Arthur . . Billy Buck .
Malcolm Bradley
Joey Sutherland
W. S. St. Clair
Will H. Mayo
|
Pradeau |
. Joseph A. Ransom |
|
Bonnefoi |
. Walter H. Edwards |
|
Shamois |
. Charles B. Charters |
|
Therese |
. . . Eugene Blair |
|
Natalia . . |
. . Margaret Pierce |
Fred Warde returned in "Galba," Sept. 24, 28, 29; "The Gladiator," Sept. 25 and matinee, Sept. 26; "Virginius," Sept. 26 and matinee, Sept. 29. " Gaston Cadol " was acted Sept. 27 for the first time in this city. It was an adaptation from the French by Celia Logan. The cast was :
Gaston Cadol . . . . F. B. Warde Landrol .... Clarence Handyside Count De Tevenne . . . L. F. Rand Eugene De Villeray, Thos. E. Garrick De La Tour . . . William Stuart
" Damon and Pythias " was played Sept. 29.
Minnie Palmer was seen Oct. 31 in "My Sweetheart;" Nov. 7, Hanlon's "Fantasma;" Nov. 14, Clara Morris in "Article 47," repeated Nov. 15, 16; "Ren6e," Nov. 17, 18; "Alixe," matinee and evening, Nov. 19; "Our Regiment," matinee, Nov. 16; "The Ivy Leaf," Nov. 21 ; Phosa McAllister, Nov. 28, in "Taken for Life;" Dec. 5, "Pavements of Paris;" Dec. 12, the Madison Square Theatre company in "Jim the Penman," with Ada Dyas as Mrs. Ralston; Dec. 19, James H. Wallick in "The Cattle King;" Dec. 26, Tony Denier's "Humpty Dumpty" company.
Jan. 2, 1888, Oliver Doud Byron appeared in "The Inside Track;" Jan. 9, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Knight in "Baron Rudolph," for three nights; "Over the Garden Wall," Jan. 12, 13, 14; the Hanlons came Jan. 16 in "Le Voyage En Suisse;" Jan.' 23,
368 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1888
Jeffreys Lewis in " La Belle Russe ; " repeated Jan. 24, 25 ; " For- get Me Not," Jan. 26, 27; "Clothilde," Jan. 27, 28. This was Lewis' first appearance in this city in four years. Jan. 30, " Michael Strogoff," with Atkins Lawrence in the cast; Feb. 6, "Lights o' London;" Feb. 13, Annie Pixley in "Deacon's Daughter;" Feb. 20, Evans and Hoey in "A Parlor Match;" Feb. 27, the Dalys in "Upside Down;" March 5, "Evangeline;" March 12, Cora Tanner in "Alone in London;" March 19, Daniel Sully in "Daddy Nolan;" March 26, J. B. Studley in "A Great Wrong;" April 2, Salsbury's Troubadours in "The Humming Bird;" James M. Hardie and Sarah von Leer April 9 in " On the Frontier ; " first time this city "The Boston Howard Athenaeum specialty company " April 16, followed by "The Main Line, or Rawsons' Y," April 23; "Passion's Slave," April 30; Charles E. Verner in "Shamus O'Brien," May 7; Kate Purssell in "Queen of the Plains," May 14. "Rookwood" was presented May 21 with this cast:
Lady Rookwood . . Edna Courtney Ranulf Rookwood . . Louis Glover Dick Turpin . . . . O. B. Collins
Luke A. H. Hastings
Jerry Ed. Chapman
M. Coates S. Drake
Barbara Nellie Sandford
Peter Bradley ... T. J. Herndon
Titus G. H. Whitman
Tom King Louis Monico
Eleanor Rosita Worrell
Sybil Nelly Donald
O. B. Collins did not act after the second night, as he was in- jured by falling from his horse, and W. H. Hamilton played Dick Turpin during the rest of the week. Charles L. Davis in " Alvin Joslin," May 28; June 4 Geo. C. Boniface in Charles Foster's drama, "Under Cover," produced for the first time on any stage, with this cast :
James Charles Williams
Officer S. Hallet
Hack Driver H. Cotter
Stella Helen Corlette
Zoe Louise Rial
Jerry Jummel . . . Geo. C. Boniface Jasper Elliott . . Henry Weaver, Jr. Dr. Albert Chester, Ed. A. Tannehill Iva EUiott . . . Stella Boniface Mrs. Chester . . . May F. Stetson Abel Stanley .... Carl Smith
Edmund Collier opened June 11 in "Virginius," repeated matinde June 16; "Jack Cade," June 12; "Damon and Pythias," matinee and evening June 13; "Julius Caesar," June 15; "Rich- ard in.," June 16. "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," with Percy Hunt- ing as the star, came June 18 for one week. " Dollars and Hearts," June 25, closed the season, but a benefit was given July 2 to Theo. Myers and D. J. Shelley, treasurers of the house.
The next season opened Saturday, Aug. 11, 1888, with "Lights and Shadows," which remained the following week. It had this cast:
iSSqH
WINDSOR THEATRE
369
Mary Bland, Mabel Milburn
May Newman Edith Broughton . . Agnes Herndon Mark Milburn . . . Sheridan Block Judge Broughton . . D. A. Hanchett
Mother Meg Rufus Milburn Mat Wilton Claude Maul Tom . . .
. Ida Jeffreys . W. T. Doyle H. S. Duffield C. F. Gotthold W. L. Gleason
" Fate " came Aug. 20, with Russell Bassett and Rose Osborne in the principal r61es ; Aug. 27, " In His Power ; " Sept. 3, "Around the World in Eighty Days," by W. J. Fleming's com- pany; Sept. 10, "A Cold Day;" "Herminie, or the Cross of Gold," week of Sept. 17, by the William Redmund-Mrs. Thomas Barry company; Sept. 24, "Her Husband," with Florine Arnold as the star, and W. A. Whitecar, Luke Martin, E. L. Walton, Louise Muldener, Georgie Reignolds, and Mrs. Wallace Brittan in the cast; James M. Hardie and Sarah von Leer came Oct. i with "On the Frontier," and a band of Indians; Oct. 8, "Alone in London;" Oct. 15, Charles Davis in "One of the Old Stock," first time in New York; "Gwynne's Oath," Oct. 22, with May Wilkes as the star. It had this cast :
Gwynne Archer . . . May Wilkes Richard .... Harold Courtnay
Gussy Ernest Tarlton
Willoughby Parker . Emelie Boswell Sir Pearce Parker . . A. C. Deltwyn
Bessy Smith . . . Isabelle Irving Harry Vesey . . Davenport Bebus
Pepe Gertie Boswell
Gilbert Evelyn Evans
Jim L. R. Willard
Estelle Clayton appeared Oct. 29 in "A Sad Coquette," for four performances, and finished the week with "The Quick or the Dead .' " " Siberia " came for a week Nov. 5, followed by " Uncle Tom's Cabin," Nov. 12, with Milt G. Barlow as Uncle Tom, Alice Harrison as Topsy. The Boston Howard Athenaeum company filled the week of Nov. 19; Nov. 26, "The Ivy Leaf." Dec. 3 "The Fugitive" was seen for the first time in this city and had this cast:
Hester Malyon John Levitt .
. . Lisle Leigh , W. A. Whitecar
Master Corley Corderoy Eliza Long Crackles .... William CuUington Arthur StoUery . . Harry Dalton
"The Twelve Temptations" came Dec. 10; "One of the Bravest," Dec. 17; "The Little Tycoon," Dec. 24. This was the first comic opera that had been heard at this theatre. Gen. Knickerbocker was played by Thos. Q. Seabrooke, and Alvin Barry by J. Aldrich Libby; Teddy, Joseph Mealey; Marie Sanger, Elvia Crox, and Catherine Linyard were also in the cast. This was Catherine Linyard's first appearance in comic opera in this city. Oliver Doud Byron filled the week of Dec. si with "The Upper Hand."
Clara Morris returned Jan. 7, 1839, with "Ren6e de Moray,"
VOL. II. — 24
370 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dssg
which she acted all the week except Wednesday matinee. For the Wednesday matinee "The Lady of Lyons" was played, with Mittens Willett as Pauline. In "Ren^e de Moray" Fred de Belleville acted Count de Moray ; Julius Kahn, Antonio. Evans and Hoey produced "A Parlor Match" Jan. 14. "The White Slave" came Jan. 21; "The Two Sisters," Jan. 28; Haverly & Cleveland's minstrels, Feb. 4; Annie Pixley in "The Deacon's Daughter," Feb. 11; Salsbury's Troubadours in "Three of a Kind," Feb. 18; the Madison Square Theatre company in " Part- ners," Feb. 25. In the company were Alexander Salvini, Louis F. Massen, C. P. Flockton, Fred Corbett, Maud Harrison, Katha- rine Rogers, Nannie Craddock, and Virginia Buchanan. March 4 the musical comedy of "Zigzag;" March 11, William Redmund and Mrs. Thomas Barry in "Herminie;" March 18, "Lights and Shadows;" March 25, Hallen & Hart's "Later On;" April i, McKee Rankin, with his play, "The Runaway Wife ; " April 8, a farce called "Reuben Glue;" April 15, the musical comedy, "Katti;" April 22, Mrs. J. B. Potter and Kyrle Bellew ap- peared in "Romeo and Juliet;" April 23, 25, and 27, "Camille;" matinee, April 24, 27, " Romeo and Juliet ; " April 24, " She Stoops to Conquer;" April 26, "The Lady of Lyons." Gus Williams, April 29, in "Keppler's Fortunes." A clever Chinese dramatic company took the house July 6 for two weeks but they collapsed after two nights. On Sunday evening, July 9, they gave a sacred concert; Treasurers Shelley and Myers took a benefit Julv 8. The house was reopened July 10, with "The Bohemian Girl"
The season of 1889-90 opened Aug. 12, with "La Belle Marie," Agnes Herndon the star. " A Hoop of Gold " followed Aug. 19, cast as follows :
Mr. Bullion "Scotty" . . Doctor Hartland Richard Wrench Welcher Humm Sammy Witherwick
. . John Howland . John H. Maher . . . John Burke James L. Edwards . Drew A. Morton
Mortimer Murdoch
Jack Littleben ... A. Armstrong The Warbler . . . Charles Crolius Ruth Bullion . . . Josie Robinson Lizzie Lovegrove . . Ruth Aylmer
Tilly Annie Clybourne
Mick Brady R. King
Young Nanty Davis
Lizzie Evans came Aug. 26 in "The Buckeye," for the week. Aug. 30, 31, "Fine Feathers;" J. C. Stewart and company Sept. 16 in "The Fat Men's Club."
Louis James was the next attraction, with his Shakesperian com- pany. Their repertory was : Sept. 23, matinees Sept. 25 and 28, "Virginius;" Sept. 24, 27, "Hamlet;" Sept. 25, "Othello." "Evangeline" came Sept. 30, followed Oct. 7 by Annie Pixley in "Zara; " Oct. 14 " Spider and Fly," was given with this cast:
iSgoJ
WINDSOR THEATRE
371
Progressia . . Ignorance . . Idleness . . Industry . . Gloriana Sand Knowledge Lord Spooner .
Bessie Cleveland
. . Ada Dare
Louise Allen
. Lulu Reddan
. . Kitty Hill
Marguerite Wood
P. H. Thurber
Jake Hessian . . . Auguste Siegrist
Dorothy Mile. Dorst
Spider James R. Adams
Fly Thomas S. Dare
Sands Carl Anderson
Twirletti Mens. Oreste
" The Great Metropolis " was seen Oct. Well;" Nov. 11, "Duvar." The cast:
28; Nov. 4, "Fairy's
Duke D'Alberte . . George Dalton Viscount Herbley . Charles M. Hally
Duvar Tom Ricketts
Louis Little Ethel
Cozette Little AUie
Lagrange .... James Edwards Gobert J. L. Simonds
Dr. Lane . Jaques . . Marguerite ArieUe Pas Suzanne Mile. Marvotte Yorick . . .
. Harry White . . A. James . Lillian Wood Velma Rice Edith Herrington . Leila Dressier Arthur Ricketts
Clara Morris was the attraction Nov. 18, opening in "Renee de Moray." She remained a second week, and produced Nov. 25, "Helene." In consequence of illness she did not appear night of Nov. 23, but the company played "The Lady of Lyons." Dec. 2, "Siberia;" Dec. 9, "Shadows of a Great City;" Dec. 16, Hal- len and Hart's company in " Later On." With the exception of Jos. J. Sullivan and Carrie E. Perkins the company was the same as that which appeared at the Bijou a few weeks previous. " The Bells of Haslemere," Dec. 23, for the first time in New York. The cast was:
Frank Beresford . , John Silkstone Matthew Brookfield . Reuben Armstrong Evelyn Brookfield
John E. Kellerd Walter C. Kelly Charles Brandt Frank B. Hatch . . MaudHaU
Mary Northcole Norah Desmond Capt. Vere Dorothy . .
. Jessie Busley
Katherine Price
. Howard Kyle
Sally Williams
Oli
30.
13, Chas. T. Ellis was seen in "Caspar the Yodler;" "A Tin Soldier," Jan. 20; "The Two Sisters," Jan. 27; "A Parlor Match," Feb. 3; Robert Downing week of Feb. 10 in reper- toire; Fred Warde, Feb. 17, as Spartacus in "The Gladiator;" Feb. 24, "The Galley Slave;" March 3, "Greenroom Fun," Nellie McHenry the star.
"The Shanty Queen," for the first time in this city, March 10, and had this cast :
Mike Brannigan . Robert Gould . . John Branscombe James Strathmore, Bridget Brannigan
. . T. J. Farron . . Frank Kilday . . Fred Mayer Edmund Mortimer . Fannie Osborne
The Shanty Queen . . . Amy Lee Jack Daily .... W. T. Melville
Staggs Robert Boucheir
Scotty John Wood
Annie Gould .... Marion Keith
372 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D890
Barry and Fay opened March 17 in "McKenna's Flirtation." On Sunday night, March 16, a Chinese theatrical company gave a performance to a big audience of their countrymen. It purported to be a "sacred concert," but was really a heavy tragedy, entitled "Li Khi Han Kan." None but Chinamen were admitted. Louis James appeared March 24 in "Othello." James played "Ingo- mar " for the first time in New York Wednesday matinee, March 26. "Uncle Tom's Cabin," March 31, Milt G. Barlow as Uncle Tom, Carrie Webber as Topsy. April 7, "The Ivy Leaf;" April 14, "Master and Man;" April 21, "My Aunt Bridget;" April 28, James Heme in "Hearts of Oak;" May 5, "Lost in New York;" May 12, Alex. Salvini in "A Child of Naples," with this cast:
Baron Delia Rocca Count Sant Elmo, Cirillo .... Judge Martelli
. Elma Delameter
Lucius Henderson
Alexander Salvini
. Carl Ahrendt
Dr. Bellotti .... Benj. Horning
Maresco Ben Johnson
Carlino Edmund Day
Lucia Belle Archer
May 19, "Knights of Tyburn;" May 26, "True Irish Hearts;" June 2, "The Black Flag;" June 9, "The Donkey Party;" but one night of it was enough, as the show was so bad that Manager Murtha terminated its engagement after one performance. The house was closed night of June 10. On June ii "The Mikado" was sung with this cast :
Katisha . . The Mikado Nanki Pooh KoKo . .
Sylvester Cornish James A. Nunn . Jules Cluzetti Ed. A. Eagleton
Pooh Bah . . . . W. McLaughlan
Yum Yum Carrie Tutein
Pitti Sing May Jordan
The season closed June 15. A Chinese company gave a per- formance June 15 to raise funds to get them back to San Fran- cisco. The next season opened Aug. 11 with "The Banker," George Edgar the star. This play was a dramatization of Miss M. E. Braddon's "Henry Dunbar."
"Christopher Columbus, or the Discovery of America," by Webster Edgerley, was produced Aug. 18. The cast was:
Christopher Columbus
Edmund Shaftesbury Wanita, the Indian Captive
Mabel Forrest Isabella, Queen of Spain
Pauline Markham Beatrix, the Witch Wife of Columbus .... Stella Rees
Ferdinand . . . Graham Crawford
Bobadilla M. J. Jordan
Talavera Frank J. Keenan
Ortiz John E. Ince
Pinzon Ed. Eagleton
Friar Deza .... Herbert Jones Diego E. Edward Brandt
"The Blue and the Gray" was seen Aug. 25; Rose Osborne appeared at a special matinee, Sept. i (Labor Day) in "Satan." This drama was derived from the old play "Satan in Paris." Edwin Arden commenced Sept. 8 in "Raglan's Way," followed
rSgi]
WINDSOR THEATRE
373
Sept. IS by " Inshavogue ; " Sept. 22 Louis James was seen in "Richelieu;" Sept. 29, Dan Sully appeared in "The Million- aire." "My Aunt Bridget" came Oct. 6, with Frank Holland in the r61e made vacant by the withdrawal of Bernard Dyllyn. "Money Mad" opened Oct. 13; "The Limited Mail," Oct. 20. This play had a sawmill scene and a railroad train; Oct. 27, " Held by the Enemy ; " Nov. 3, Annie Ward Tiffany was seen in her new play, "The Stepdaughter;" Nov. 10, "The Great Me- tropolis;" Nov. 17, Ullie Akerstrom in "Annette, the Dancing Girl;" Nov. 24, Evans and Hoey in "A Parlor Match;" Dec. i, "Only a Farmer's Daughter," with Minnie Seligman as Justine. "The Fast Mail," Dec. 8, for the first time in New York. "One of the Finest " came Dec. 15 ; " Good Old Times," Dec. 22 ; "The Charity Ball," Dec. 29; "A Tin Soldier," Jan. 5, 1891; Jan. 12, "McKenna's Flirtations," by the Barry & Fay's company. Mr. Fay did not appear, as he was compelled through illness to leave the stage several weeks previously. His r61e was acted by Frank Keenan. Emma Maddern (Mrs. R. E. Stevens) and Florence Ashbrooke were in the company. The "Fairy's Well" came Jarj. 19, with Carroll Johnson as the star; Jan. 26, "A Midnight Bell ; " Feb. 2, " Master and Man ; " Feb. 9, " Grimes' Cellar Door." On Feb. 16, " Sin and Shadow" was given, with this cast:
Marion Vernon Ellen Brander . Sarah Tippitts . Henry Vernon .
. . Isabel Morris
Helen Beaumont
Laura Lorraine
. Wm. Yerance
Alfred Davager . Edwin Middleton Toby Welsh . . . George Holland Marks Frank Drumeir
This drama was produced at the Old Bowery Theatre, June 9, 1873. It was rewritten, and served to give George Holland an opportunity to play in this city, after an absence of five years ; Feb. 23, " Siberia ; " March 2, the MacLean-Prescott company were seen in " Cleopatra," Rider Haggard's novel of that name. MacLean played Harmachis ; John D. Craig, Anthony ; and Marie Prescott, Cleopatra ; March 3, " Gladiator."
Annie Pixley, March 9, in " M'liss," followed March 16, by " The Wife," by the Lyceum Theatre travelling company; March 23, " The Stowaway; " March 30, " Daniel Boone ; " April 6, " Shenan- doah ;" April 13, Minnie Palmer, in " A Mile a Minute; " April 20, " O'Dowd's Neighbors," for the first time in this city. The cast : O'Dowd, Mark Murphy ; McNab, Sam J. Ryan ; Artie, J. Thornton; Algernon, Charles Lawlor; Honora, David Warfield; O'Brien, Charles Eastwood; William Freeze Up, William Bel- knap; Mrs. Katie Reilly, Hattie Delaro Barnes; Kittie, Minnie Cunningham; Belinda Fitzmorris, Helen Rainsley; Birdy Duffy, Jennie Eddy; Mable McGuire, Jennie Reynolds; Fannie Dolan, May Jordan; Clara O'Brien, May Thomas. One of the Fin-
374 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSga
est, Fritz Kettler. Lydia Thompson came April 27 with "The Dazzler." " Spider and Fly " occupied the house week of May 4. In the cast were Hilda Thomas, Irene Vernona, Thomas W. Ryley, Alex, and Leo Zanfretta, Auguste, Will, and S. Siegrist, Victoria North, and the Four Lyten sisters. " Little Lord Fauntleroy," was acted for the first time on the east side with this cast : Mr. Havi- sham, Frank Opperman ; Mr. Higgins, George W. Morrison ; Minna, Florence Foster; Mary, Mrs. Ada Maskell ; Lord Fauntleroy, Ray Maskell. McKee Rankin opened May 18, in "The Canuck;" May 25, "The Fugitive." The season terminated May 30. A season commenced June i, with " Oliver Twist," J. B. Studley being the Bill Sikes, and Henrietta Vaders, Nancy. " Apple Orchard Farm," the last production of the season, was presented June 8, and the house closed June 13, but was reopened for one night, June 16, for the benefit of the treasurers, Myers and McCabe.
Season of 1891-92 opened August 10, with "Rose Michael." " She Could n't Marry " came Aug. 17, with Lillian Kennedy as the star. "Fire Patrol" was done Aug. 24; "Money Mad "Aug. 31; " Work and Wages " Sept. 7 ; " Inheritance " Sept. 14, Maud Granger the star. This play had been seen at the Madison Square Theatre, this city, afternoon of Dec. 23, 1890, and was then called " Helen's Inheritance." It was originally acted in Paris, under the title of " L'Heritage d'Helene." " A Hole in the Ground " came Sept. 21 ; " A Knotty Affair " Sept. 28; Dan Sully Oct. 5, in the "Million- aire; " "Two Old Cronies" Oct. 12; "All the Comforts of Home" Oct. 19 ; " The Wolves of New York " Oct. 26 ; " The Two Sisters " Nov. 2; "The Struggle of Life" Nov. 9; "McKenna's Flirtation" Nov. 16 ; " Our Irish Visitor " Nov. 23 ; Annie Ward Tiffany Nov. 30, in "The Stepdaughter;" "Dark Secret" Dec. 7; "Zigzag" Dec. 14; "Fantasma " Dec. 21 ; " Led Astray " Dec. 28, with Rose Ey tinge the star.
"Baby" was presented Jan. 4, 1892; " O'Dowd's Neighbor" Jan. 11;" Twelve Temptations " Jan. 18 ; " Limited Mail " Jan. 25 ; " Natural Gas " Feb. i ; J. K. Emmet, in " Fritz " Feb. 8 ; " White Slave " Feb. 15 ; " Mr. Wilkinson's Widows " Feb. 22 ; " Ole Olson " Feb. 29 ; " Westerner " March 7. This play was originally acted at the Old Bowery Theatre this city for one night — July 12, 1890, and called " Jim The Westerner ; " " Dr. Bill " came March 14 ; " Sam'l of Posen " March 21, with Frank M. Curtis as the star ; " Hands Across the Sea " was done March 28 ; Gorman's minstrels appeared April 4; "Uncle Tom's Cabin" April 11; "The Struggle of Life "April 18; "The Golden Ladder " April 25 ; with Edwin F. Thorne as the star. Mme. Janauschek was seen here May 2, in " The Harvest Moon." " The Nabobs " came May 9, with Henshaw and Ten Broeck as the stars. "Kit" was given May 16, with Henry Chanfrau as the star; "Blacksmith's Vow" came June 6; Ada Gray June 13, in "East
X893: WINDSOR THEATRE 375
Lynne". A sparring match took place the night of June 20. " Shamus O'Brien " came June 21 for the rest of the week and the season closed June 25.
The next season began Saturday night Aug. 13, 1892, with "Jerry;" Gracie Emmet and J. W. Summers being in the cast. " The Colonel " came Aug. 22.
"The Shamrock" was seen Aug. 29; J. K. Emmet, Jr. appeared Sept. s in " Fritz in Ireland." " The White Slave " was played Sept. 12. The company was as follows: Carrie Radcliffe, Ida Rob- inson, Anna Mortland, Mrs. Elizabeth Vanderen, Mabel Stone, Mrs. Milt G. Barlow, (better known as Lillie Hall) Maurice Drew, D. L. Lacy, Milt G. Barlow, Frank Drew, Andy Collom, Harry Bar- low, and J. H. Ferris. "The Struggle of Life" was done Sept. 19; "The Kid" Sept 26; "Dr. Bill" Oct. 3. In the company were: Celia Ellis, Ida Bell, Mary Breyer, Grace M. Harper, May Miller Farnum, Ernest Bertram, and Eric Pollock. " Eagle's Nest " appeared Oct. 10; acted by Edwin Arden, Frank Losee, W. H. Stuart, Harry Mack, J. P. Loughney, Jos. W. Holland, Robert East- man, Delia Sawyer, Marion Elmore, and others.
"The Wide, Wide World" Oct. 17, with John Flood, Daniel Kelly, J. J. Fitzsimmons, Fanny Mclntyre, Edythe Totten, Nettie Bourne, and Mrs. Wallace Brittan in the company. The " Fairy's Well " was seen Oct. 24; "The Dark Side of a Great City" Oct. 31, with Chas. E. Fisher, E. F. Eberle, Walter Osmund, Chas. T. Nichols, Cassie Fawcett and others in the cast. " Shadows of a Great City " Nov. 7 ; " A Hole in the Ground " Nov. 14 ; " Aunt Bridget's Baby " Nov. 21. " Friends" was playedNov. 28, with this cast:
Marguerite Otto . . . Selena Fetter
Hans Otto E. D. Lyons
Harold Hunting . . C. F. Handyside John Paden, Sr. . . Theo. Hamilton John Paden, Jr., Edwin Milton Royle
Adrian Karje . . Lucius Henderson Mrs. Merryweather, Bertha Livingtone Jennie Merryweather, Louise Wakelee
Miss Wolfe Katie Baker
Miss Hartman . . . Fay Waterman
" Mr. Wilkinson's Widows" was seen Dec. 5, followed, Dec. 12, by " The Soudan," with James F. Home, Horace Lewis, Alexander Kearney, Frank Herrick, Charles J. Jackson, Jos. C. Callahan, E.J. Mortimer, Ben Ryer, Annie Mayer, Annie Lockhart, Jean Harold, Carrie Treat, Master Sidney Hunt, and Alice Hunt in the company. "Wife for Wife "was given Dec. 19; John L. Sullivan appeared Dec. 26, in " That Man from Boston ; " "A Fair Rebel " came Jan. 2, 1893; "The Leaves of Shamrock" Jan. 9; "The Hustler" Jan. 16; "Lights O' London" Jan. 23. In the company were Marcus Moriarty, George Learock, Harry Trader, Wm. Pippin, Walter Osmond, Wm. Shea, Margaret Macdonald, Thomas Atkins, Master Lear, Fanny Mclntyre, Helen Corlette, and Ella Mayer. "Nabobs "was seen Jan 30; "A Dark Secret" Feb. 6; "The Diamond Breaker" Feb. 13. Harry Colton of this company was
376 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 1:1864
found dead in bed Feb. 15, and Eugene Florence acted Sugg for the rest of the week except the nights of Feb. 17, 18, when L. P. Hicks played the part. " Siberia " came Feb. 20 ; " Glen-da-Lough " Feb. 27; " The Country Circus " March 6 ; "The Outsider" March 13; " Current Cash " March 20. The season closed March 25. The theatre was reopened March 27, 1893, as a Hebrew theatre under the management of Sigmund Magulesko, Isidore Lindeman, and Joseph Levy.
THE TEMPLE OF MUSIC
AT the corner of Grand and Crosby streets was a hall called " The Temple of Music." It was opened Nov. 27, 1865, by " Thorpe & Overin's minstrels of All Nations ; " Geo. Guy was stage manager ; Joseph Braham, musical director. The party comprised twenty-two performers, who appeared in the costumes of various nations, and their entertainment consisted of solos, duets, trios, and choruses. It was successful for only a fortnight, as the house was closed on Dec. 13, and was reopened Dec. 23 by the Thorpe Bros., but for three days only, as it closed Christmas day. It was again opened on Jan. i, 1866, as " The Grand St. Theatre," with J. Thorpe as lessee and manager. " The Drunkard " was the initial perform- ance, with Inery Lantz in leading r61e. The house again closed Jan, 8, to reopen Jan. 13, but the manager gave up the struggle in a few nights, and the house ceased to exist as a place of amusement.
CHIARINPS CIRCUS
CHIARINI'S circus was situated in Bleecker Street, on the block bounded by Charles and Perry. It was opened on July 23, 1866, but closed at the end of the summer.
THE ATHEN^UM
IN the year 1838 "The Church of the Messiah " was built for the Unitarian Minister, Orville Dewey, who moved from Stuyvesant Institute in 1839. The church was known as 724 Broadway, and later as 728 Broadway. It was a gray stone edifice on the east side of Broadway opposite Waverly Place. In 1854 the Rev. Dr. Samuel Osgood became pastor, and continued there until 1864, when he removed to Park Avenue and Thirty-fifth Street. This church was afterwards used for entertainments of various kinds. There was a tradition that at a school exhibition held there, A. Oakey Hall, afterwards Mayor of New York, recited a poem and in it was this prophetic couplet :
"E'en in some future age This pulpit may be a stage."
LUCY RUSHTON'S THEATRE
377
After the exhibition Dr. Pennington remarked to Mr. Hall, " If your prophecy about this church ever prove true, I hope the house will be cursed." In the summer of 1865 the old church was in a dismantled condition ; hucksters' stalls were built against the front of it ; a pasteboard sign on one of the big doors bore the inscription, " Diisseldorf Gallery." The pews had been removed from the in- terior, and instead of the pulpit there was an auctioneer's platform, from which oil paintings were sold. It was then used for giving out work to poor sewing-women.
A. T. Stewart purchased the building and named it the ' ' Athe- naeum." It was first opened for a public entertainment Jan. 23, 1865, by James H. Hackett, who called it the "Broadway Athe- NiEUM," the performance consisting of readings, anecdotes, and recita- tions. The receipts were given to the Shakespeare Statue Fund. Mr. Hackett continued only a few nights, as the speculation was a losing one. On Feb. 23 a concert was given by the Metropolitan Musical Association, and during a few nights in May, Sinclair Mason's War Panorama was exhibited here.
The building was then leased by H. H. Davis, who came to this country with Lucy Rushton, an actress who had appeared with indifferent success at the Olympic Theatre in this city. In sixteen days it was completely transmogrified. It was a brick structure, and above the entrance, offices, and vestibule appeared the stone towers of the old church. The staff of the theatre was: propri- etress and manageress, Lucy Rushton; acting manager and treasurer, H. H. Davis ; stage manager, James Schonberg. The house was open for the inspection of the press on Dec. 22, 1865, and the formal opening to the public took place Dec. 23, when it became known as "Lucy Rushton's Theatre." The performance com- menced with the singing of " The Star Spangled Banner," after which " The School for Scandal " was played, with this cast : Sir Peter Teazle . . .CM. Walcot Sir Oliver Surface . Harry Pearson Joseph Surface . . D. W. Waller
Rowley . Careless . Snake Trip . . Sir Toby Sir Harry Lady Teazle Mrs. Candour
Harry Cunningham
W. S. Higgins
T. C. Gourlay
. . . Daveys
. . Thompson
. . Mr. Jones
Lucy Rushton
Clara Maeder
Charles Surface . . J. K. Mortimer Sir Benjamin Backbite W. A. Mestayer Lady Sneerwell . Mrs. Mark Smith Maria .... Mrs. A. W. Young
Crabtree Thos. Placide
Moses John Moore
This was the first time Mr. Walcot ever played Sir Peter Teazle in New York. This bill continued until Jan., 1 866, when " The Honey- moon ' was acted, with this cast :
Duke Aranza . . . J. K. Mortimer
J"ljana Lucy Rushton
Jojando C. W. Clarke
Balthazar . . . . W. S. Higgins Zamora .... Mrs. A. W. Young
Lopez Harry Pearson
Mock Duke . . . Thos. Placide Volante .... Mrs. Mark Smith Count Montalban . . W. A. Mestayer
378 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Eisee
" A Man Without a Head " was also acted, with W. A. Mestayer, C. M. Walcot, Mrs. Mark Smith, and Mrs. A. W. Young in the cast.
" The Lady of Lyons," was played Jan. 4, with John K. Mortimer as Claude, T. Placide as Col. Damas, C. W. Clarke as Beauseant, Chas. Walcot, Sr., as Glavis, Lucy Rushton as Pauline, and Clara Fisher Maeder as Mme. Deschapelles. January 12 " A Phenome- non in a Smock Frock " followed " The Honeymoon," with Harry Pearson as Buttercup. This programme was repeated Jan. 17. "The School for Scandal" was given Jan. 19; Douglas Jerrold's drama " The Prisoner of War," and " The Day after the Wedding" were played Jan. 22. " The Black Domino " was seen Jan. 29, cast thus:
Horace . . Count Julian Jacintha . .
. J. K. Mortimer . . C. W. Clarke Mrs. Clara Maeder
Bridget .... The Black Domino
Mrs. Mark Smith . . Lucy Rushton
The same night was acted for the first time James Schonberg's burlesque, "Between You and Me and the Post," founded upon " Arrah Na Pogue." Rosa Cooke made her first appearance here as Arrah Meelish ; Mrs. Mark Smith was Fanny Power ; Harry Pearson, Shaun; W. S. Higgins, Feeny; and Wm. A. Mestayer, Beamish McCoul.
The burlesque was acted until Feb. 26, when " A Phenomenon in a Smock Frock," and " The King's Gardener " were presented. On March i " Geralda, or Love and Mystery," was produced. " The Child of the Regiment," with Rosa Cooke as Josephine, and "The Appointment" were given March 12; "Dominique, the Deserter," March 19. The house was closed March 26, for a rehearsal of Schonberg's burlesque, " Valiant Valentine," produced for the first time March 27. It had this cast :
Valiant Valentine . Premifere Danseuse King Pippin . . Henry ....
Hugo
Agramont . . .
. Lucy Rushton . Lina Windell . C. W. Clarke . G. L. Parkes W. S. Higgins Harry Seymour
|
Blandiman . . |
T. C. Gourlay |
|
Orson . . . |
. . Harry Pearson |
|
Eglantine . . |
. . . Lucia Deane |
|
Belisanta . . |
. . Mrs. C. Maeder |
|
Agatha . . . |
. . Annie Mosten |
|
Puck .... |
. Mrs. Mark Smith |
Wednesday and Saturday matinees were given during this week. The season was announced to terminate April 14, but the house closed abruptly April 10.
It was reopened April 18, for a complimentary benefit to Lucy Rushton, when " As You Like It," was played by W. Holston, W. M. Foster, James Dunn, W. S. Higgins, John Moore, Woodruff, Holhwell, Garland, George Farren, Geo. Parkes, Russell, Gourlay, Flynn, Mellinger, Mrs. Maeder, Mrs. Smith, and Lucy Rushton, the latter lady acting Rosalind.
1866;]
THE NEW YORK THEATRE
379
This house was reopened by Lewis Baker and Mark Smith, after several alterations, on Sept. 3.
In consequence of the revenue tax not having been paid, the house was again closed by order of the Government.
THE NEW YORK THEATRE
ON Sept. s, 1866, Messrs. Smith and Baker were able to open the house again as the " New York Theatre " with the following company: Mark Smith, Lewis Baker, A. H. Davenport, McKee Rankin, W. Gomersal, Humphrey Bland, Geo. Metkiff, F. Percy, H. Vernon, Farley, King, Chapman, Newton, Williams, Mrs. W. Gomer- sal, Mrs. H. H. Wall, Mrs. Marie Wilkins, Mrs. H. Bland, Alicia Mandeville, Sadie Cole, Solado, Lewis, Cane, Henry. The initial performance was " Old Phil's Birthday " for the first time in New York, and also the extravaganza " Lola Montez." The cast of the first piece was : Phil Stapleton, Lewis Baker ; Frank Stapleton, A. H. Davenport; Mr. Hardress, Humphrey Bland; Lionel Hardress, Hardy Vernon ; Marion Hardress, Sadie Cole ; Blanche Howard, Alicia Mandeville. "The Debutante" and "Mr. and Mrs. Peter White " were acted Sept. 6, with a burlesque on " Lady Audley's Secret," Alicia Mandeville as Luke Talboys.
McKee Rankin made his bow Sept. 14, as Hugh de Bras in " A Regular Fix, " also Marie Wilkins as Lady Scragg in " Sketches in India." " Beauty and the Beast " had its first performance Sept. 17, with Mrs. William Gomersal as Beauty, and John Farley as the Beast.
Fanny Young, an Australian burlesque actress, made her New York d^but Sept. 24, as Lady Bell in " Rum-ti-Foo-zle, or the Loves of Lord Lovell and Nancy Bell." It was preceded by " A Fine Old English Gentleman." " The Doctor of Alcantara " was pro- duced Sept. 30, under the direction of Julius Eichberg. The cast was:
Inez Gomersal
Isabella Maria Norton
Carlos John Farley
Perez Mr. Caldwell
Donna Lucrezia . . Sophie Mozart
Doctor Paracellus . . Mark Smith Don Pomposa . . , Joseph Weinlich Senor Balthazar . . Wm. Gomersal Sancho Mr. Chapman
" A Night in Rome," a new opera by Eichberg, was heard Oct. 17. In the cast were Mrs. William Gomersal, John Farley, C. F. Shat- tuck, Caldwell, Chapman, and Percy. " Wanted, a Thousand Milli- ners," was also acted, with Mark Smith as Mme. Vanderpants. " The Married Rake," " Lady Audley " and " Lola Montez " was the bill October 26.
380 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D866
H. J. Byron's drama, " War to the Knife," was produced for the first time in America Oct. 29, and had this cast :
John Blunt Mark Smith
Capt. Thistleton . . . Geo. MetkifF
Mrs. Harcourt Sadie Cole
Mrs. Benson . . . Marie Wilkins Nubby Lewis Baker
Harcourt Percy
Shapers Chapman
Nabb Williams
Mrs. Delacour, Mrs. William Gomersal Jane Alicia Mandeville
" Perdita, or the Royal Milkmaid," a burlesque on " The Winter's Tale," by the Brough Brothers, was given Nov. 2, for the first time in this city, and was thus cast :
Hermione .... Marie Wilkins
Polixenes Lewis Baker
Florizel Mrs. Gomersal
Autolycus Mark Smith
Blocus H. Bland
Birthday" and " Perdita" were acted Nov. 6. " Grif- dramatization of Charles Reade's novel by Aug. Daly, 7 for the first time on any stage and had this cast :
Leontes Wm. Gomersal
Camillo Percy
Perdita .... Alicia Mandeville
Pauline Mrs. H. Bland
Time, as Chorus .... Sadie Cole
" Old Phil's fith Gaunt," a was seen Nov.
Griffith Gaunt Tom Leicester Chief Justice Father Francis Paul Carrick Doctor . . Mr. Vint . . Hayes . . Kate Peyton Mercy Vint . Dame Vint .
J. K. Mortimer Lewis Baker Mark Smith Mr. Taylor . Mr. Jones . Mr. Mack Mr. Williams . F. Newton Rose Eytinge Mrs. W. Gomersal . Mrs. H. Bland
Jane Frost .... A. Mandeville
Gypsey Sadie Cole
Meg Miss Lewis
George Neville . . George MetkifE Squire Peyton . . . Humphrey Bland Brother Leonard . . . Mr. Jamison Manager of Penny Show . Mr. Rose Manager of Zoological Caravan
Mr. Walker Caroline Ryder . Mrs. Marie Wilkins
In the course of the drama there was a scene representing the old sports at the Lancashire Fair, consisting of climbing the pole, jump- ing in sacks, a pig chase, and other diversions. Henry Tissington resumed the musical directorship Nov. 7, Dr. Eichberg retiring. " Griffith Gaunt " had a run of five weeks. On Dec. 3 there were several changes in the cast, Eliza Newton taking the place of Rose Eytinge, Sallie Hinckley that of Mrs. Wilkins, J. W. Lanergan that of J. K. Mortimer and L. H. Everett that of Mr. Metkiflf.
Aug. Daly took a benefit Dec. 11, when, in addition to "Griffith Gaunt," a miscellaneous concert was given by Stella Bonheur, Sig. Testa, Fossati, W. J. Hill, James Wehli and Theo. Thomas. The house then closed for the rehearsals of " Cendrillon," translated and adapted by L. R. Beneux, which was presented Dec, 13, with this cast :
Prince Charming . . Eliza Newton Queen of the Sun . . .Ida Devere
Urania de la HouspignoUe Queen of the Night . . Anna Kruger
Marie Wilkins King Hurieburly XIX. . Mark Smith
President of Cupid's Court Mons. de la Pinchonniere, Lewis Baker
Mrs. H. Bland Cendrillon . . . Mrs.'w. Gomersal
18673
THE NEW YORK THEATRE
381
Javotte .... Blanche Chapman Madelon . . . Alicia Mandeville
Luciola Sallie Hinckley
Oculi Annie Yeamans
Aurora Rosa St. Clair
Jolicoco W. Gomersal
Rjquiqui Fred Percy
Farhulas H. Bland
Maclon Frank Chapman
Rosa St. Clair, afterwards known as Rosa Leland, died at Albany, N. Y., March 10, 1889. A benefit was given afternoon Jan. 22, 1867, for the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund. " Still Waters Run Deep " was the first piece. Hawksley, Geo. Jordan ; John Mildmay, Lewis Baker; Potter, Mark Smith; Dunbilk, W. L. Jamison; Langton, William Chapman ; Mrs. Sternhold, Fanny Morant ; Mrs. Mildmay, Sadie Cole. " Mr. and Mrs. Peter White," with Wm. Gomersal as Peter White, C. H. Rockwell as Frank, Humphrey Bland as Major Pepper, Mrs. William Gomersal as Mrs. Peter White, Sadie Cole as Widow White, and Alicia Mandeville as Kitty, followed. " A Bird of Paradise " was produced Jan. 29, with this cast : Nikabar, Mark Smith; Karabout, W. Gomersal; Don Fernand, Sallie Hinckley; Shortboots, Lewis Baker; Mousseline, Mrs. W. Gomersal; D'Jina, the Bird of Paradise, Ida Devere. It had a run of two weeks, and gave place Feb. 1 1 to " The Ticket of Leave Man," cast thus :
Bob Brierly . , . Geo. H. Clarke Green Jones . . , Wm. Gomersal James Dalton .... Wm. Jamison May Edwards . Mrs. Wm. Gomersal Emily St. Evremond
Mrs. Wm. Jamison
Sam Willoughby - . . Mrs. Yeamans Mrs. Willoughby . Marie Wilkins Hawkshaw .... Lewis Baker
Melter Moss H. Bland
Gibson Mark Smith
On Feb. 18, Lady Don, widow of Sir William Don, made her New York debut as Peggy Green, in the farce of that name, and as the Earl of Leicester, in the burlesque, " Kenilworth, or Ye Queene, Ye Earle, and Ye Maydenne." The cast was :
Leicester Lady Don
Tony Chapman
Sir Walter Sadie Cole
Michael Williams
Queen Elizabeth . . . Mark Smith Amy Robsart . . . Mrs. Gomersal
Duke of Sussex . . . Mrs. Yeamans Wayland Smith . . . Lewis Baker
Tressillian James Dunn
Janet Mrs. H. Bland
Varney Gomersal
Giles Newton
Lady Don appeared Feb. 25 as Bella Sunnyside in " The Pretty Horsebreaker," in which she sang " I Love the Merry Sunshine " and "The Hour of Chase; " March 4, Brough's burlesque, " Perseus and Andromeda; " March 11, " Nine Points of the Law," also, " Brother Bob," a sketch written for her. She also acted Miles-na-Coppaleen in " The Colleen Bawn." " London Assurance " was acted matinee March 13, for the benefit of the Southern Relief Fund, and had this cast:
382 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1867
Dazzle . . . Meddle . . . Chas. Courtley Max .... Dolly Spanker
J. K. Mortimer
Lewis Baker
James Dunn
. . T. J. Hind
Wm. Gomersal
Grace Sadie Cole
Pert Marie Wilkins
Lady Gay Lady Don
Sir Harcourt .... Mark Smith
Lady Don had a benefit March 15, when she acted Milly in " The Maid with the Milking Pail," followed by selections of Scotch ballads, illustrated by tableaux vivants, and closing with the burlesque, " Per- seus and Andromeda;" March 18 she acted Kathleen Mavourneen. Lady Emilia Eliza Don, maiden name Emily Saunders, was married Oct. 19, 1857, to Sir William Henry Don, who died at Hobart Town, Tasmania, March 19, 1862. At the close of the season of her debut in this city she returned to England, and became manageress of the Theatre Royal, Nottingham, but was not successful, and played music hall engagements. Her last appearance on the stage was at the Gaiety Music Hall, Edinburgh, Scot. She died in that city of rapid consumption Sept. 20, 1875. Mrs. William Gomersal took a benefit March 25, and presented "The Little Treasure" and " Pocahontas." Florence Noble made her first appearance here March 26; also Richard d'Orsay Ogden, in " The Stranger."
" Jeanie Deans," dramatized from Scott's " Heart of Midlothian," was produced March 27, with this cast :
Jeanie Deans . . Effie Deans . . Queen Caroline . Meg Murdockson Madge Wildfire . Geordie Robertson
. . Rose Eytinge Mrs. W. Gomersal . . Mrs. H. Bland . Mrs. M. Wilkins Annie Yeamans George MetkifF
Duke of Argyle, . Lord Chief Justice Laird o'Dumbiedyk« David Deans . . Daddy Ratcliffe . Reuben ....
Mark Smith . H. Bland W. Gomersal Lewis Baker . T. J. Hind James Dunn
It was acted for two weeks, and was followed April 8 by " Griffith Gaunt," Daniel H. Harkins making his d^but here in the title r6le. On April 12 Mrs. Marie Wilkins took a benefit, and offered " The Love Chase," in which she played Widow Green. Lucie Keeler was Constance; Mark Smith, Sir William Fondlove; Lewis Baker, Wildrake ; and D. H. Harkins, Waller.
Annie Lacoste acted Pauline, in " The Lady of Lyons," April 12, for the benefit of Mark Smith. Humphrey Bland took a benefit April 15, in "The Ticket of Leave Man." With this performance the house closed, but reopened April 22, with " The Sacred Trust, or the Oath on the Battlefield." This proved to be the military drama, " Corporal Cartouche," formerly done at the Winter Garden Theatre. In the cast were : Mark Smith, Lewis Baker, Jas. Dunn, J. L. Gossin, Mr. and Mrs. Gomersal, Lillie Eldridge, Sadie Cole, and others. The farce of " Blondin on the Tight Rope," was also given. Phil Warren, the treasurer, took a benefit April 27, when "Perdita" and " Mr. and Mrs. Peter White " were acted. Mark Smith and Lewis Baker took a benefit April 29, when the house closed and Baker &
18673 THE WORRELL SISTERS' THEATRE 383
Smith's management ended. " Cool as a Cucumber," " Napoleon's Old Guard," and the farce, " Blondin," formed the closing bill.
The Worrell Sisters — Sophie, Irene and Jennie — then took a lease of this house, which they called "The Worrell Sisters' New York Theatre," and opened it May 6. M. L. Finch was the acting manager ; B. A. Baker, stage manager ; and H. Tissington musical director. The initial programme was " Aladdin " and " Cinderella." Thomas L. Donnelly, Welsh Edwards, James C Dunn, Mrs. Edward Wright and Lizzie Davey (mother of Minnie Maddern) were in the company. " The Elves, or the Statue Bride," and " Cinderella" were acted May 13. "Fra Diavolo"was played May 20. "The Invisible Prince," May 27; "The Elves" and "Aladdin," June 3. A burlesque by John F. Poole, called " Faust," was seen June 10, for the first time, Sophie as Faust; Jennie as Mephisto; Mrs. Annie Yeamans as Rosenkeim ; Thos.L. Donnelly as Marguerite; James C. Dunn as Siebel and Welsh Edwards as Valentine. "Arrah Na Pogue," burlesque, July i. The Worrell Sisters closed their season July 6. A summer season commenced July 8, with Marie Zoe as the star, supported by William H. Leake in " The French Spy."
"Black Sheep," a dramatization by Fred G. Maeder of Edmund Yates' novel of that name, was seen July 1 5, Rose Eytinge as Harriet Routh, Fred Maeder as George Dallas, D. H. Harkins as Stewart Routh, and Charles T. Parsloe, Jr., as Ira Swain. Welsh Edwards and Harry Ryner were also in the cast. It was withdrawn July 25, when Kate Reignolds appeared in " The Wonder " and " Antony and Cleopatra." La Fairee, an infant danseuse, was also seen. "Nobody's Daughter, or the Ballad Singer of Wapping," by Chandos Fulton and Fred G. Maeder, was produced July 29. It was originally called " Diavola." Kate Reignolds assumed ther61es of Jenny Milsom, Lady Eversleigh and Miss Brewer. J. K. Mortimer was engaged for Larkspur. Fred G. Maeder, Welsh Edwards, Jas. C. Dunn, Harry Ryner and Harris (a new comer from Boston) also had parts in the piece.
" Under the Gaslight," by Aug. Daly, was given for the first time on any stage Aug. 12, and had this cast :
Ray Trafford
Judge Bowling Counsellor Splinter Laura Courtlandt Pearl Courtlandt .
A. H. Davenport
Welsh Edwards
James Dunn
. Rose Eytinge
. Blanche Grey
Peachblossom, Mrs. Emma Skerrett Old Judas . . Mrs. Edward Wright Snorkey .... J. K. Mortimer
Byke J. B. Studley
Bermudas . . . . C. T. Parsloe, Jr.
This was the first appearance in New York, in three years, of A. H. Davenport. The sensation of the play was a railroad locomotive scene, wherein a man was bound to the track, and only saved from being run over by a passing train, through the heroism of a woman. Augustin Daly claimed this effort as original, and he owned the patent right to it for America. But it was done in England before
384 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE LiSSj
this. It was the great feature of a piece called " The Engineer, or the Life of George Stephenson," produced at the Victoria Theatre, London, in 1865. There was a locomotive, tender and coaches, and a man was run over. The play was a failure, notwithstanding it had all these effects, and the managers, to utilize the " props," had another drama written, and called it " The London Arab." In the London production the curtain drew up in the big scene on a stationary train standing outside a tunnel. Then the youngster who gave the piece its name was seen to crawl along the footboard and open the door of a carriage containing a prisoner and a police officer and his attendant. Escape of the convict, grand chase and struggle follow : capture is almost effected, when — behold ! another train darts out of the tun- nel, and, while very conveniently ignoring the handcuffed one, satis- factorily contrives to bisect the unfortunate officer. The subsequent career of these elaborate railway scenes forms a curious morsel of stage history. After doing duty for two English pieces, they were purchased by a French manager, and duly made their appearance in a Porte St. Martin melodrama, specially written for the purpose. "Under the Gaslight" held the boards until Oct. 5. Marie Zee returned Oct. 7, and played " The French Spy " and " The Angel of Midnight " for two weeks. She was supported by John W. Al- baugh. Sen., T. L. Donnelly, Geo. Lingard, and Welsh Edwards. Zee took a benefit Oct. 18, in " Esmeralda," with Albaugh as Claude Frollo, E. D. Lay as Quasimodo, and she closed Oct. 19. Edmond D. Lay died in New York, October 16, 1902, aged 73 years.
Fanny B. Price made her New York debut Oct. 21, in a version of Dr. Mosenthal's " Deborah," entitled " Naomi, the Jewish Maiden." "Fanchon" was produced Oct. 28, and ran until Nov. 8. David Hanchett (her stepfather) made his first appearance in New York after an absence of twelve years, as Father Barbeaud. Miss Price closed Nov. 8. This lady was a niece of William Warren, of Boston. She made her first appearance on the stage as the child in " Pizarro," at Chicago, James E. Murdoch being the Rolla of the occasion. She was married at Houghton, Lake Superior, June 4, 1876, to H. P. Acker, and died Oct. 9, 1897. David Hanchett died in New York, April 20, 1902.
The house was closed Nov. 9 for a rehearsal of " Norwood, or Village Life in New England," a dramatization of Rev. Henry Ward Beecher's novel of that name. It was produced Nov. 10, with this cast:
Barton Cathcart . . . G. H. Clarke Deacon Marble . . . Geo. Lingard
Hiram Beers H. Ryner
Tommy Taft . . . . S. W. Glenn Tom Heywood . . . . S. B. Villa Frank Esel Mr. Reed
Mr. Turfmould . . T. L. Donnelly Judge Bacon .... Mr. Corrister Deacon Wentworth . . . Mr. Hurley The Boy from Hardscrabble
Jennie Worrell Peter SawmiU . . Welsh Edwards
1868]
THE WORRELL SISTERS' THEATRE
385
Rose Wentworth . Sophie Worrell Alice Cathcart . . . Irene Worrell Lieut. Banks .... Mr. Sullivan
O'MuUigan Mr. Neal
Willie Maud
Cherub . . . Agate Bissell . Polly Marble . Mother Taft . Mother Blakely
. . Miss Villa
Celia Logan
Mrs. Ed. Wright
Miss Wakeman
. . Miss Dunn
"Under the Gaslight" was revived Dec. 5, Mortimer and Parsloe playing their original parts with George H. Clarke as Ray Trafford and Welsh Edwards as Byke. Irene Worrell was the Laura, Sophie Worrell, Pearl, and Jennie Worrell, Peachblossom. The one-hun- dredth performance took place Jan. 13, 1868.
" Pickwick Papers," dramatized by Aug. Daly, was produced Jan. 22 with this cast :
Alfred Jingle . . Nathaniel Winkle The Sleepy Judge Sam Weller . . Tracy Tupman . Mr. Pickwick . . Bob Sawyer . . Ben Allen . . .
J. K. Mortimer
William Carleton
- . . G. Lingard
C. T., Parsloe, Jr.
Chas. Peters
, . H. C. Ryner
. G. H. Clarke
T. L. Donnelly
Tony Weller . Mr. Nupkins . Mary . . . Arabella Allen Mrs. Bardell . Mrs. Cluppins Aunt Rachel .
. . E. Varrey W. H. Collings Jennie Worrell Celia Logan Mrs. E. Wright Mrs. H. Bland Mrs. H. Ryner
This was the first appearance here of William Carleton. Mr. Carleton committed suicide Tuesday, Aug. 18, 1885, in this city, by asphyxiation. He had been suffering from an attack of gastritis. His remains were interred in the cemetery of the Evergreens. " Pickwick Papers " continued until Jan. 29, when " Under the Gaslight " was given on alternate nights. M. L. Finch, the manager of the house, took a benefit Jan. 31, when, in addition to " Under the Gaslight" (one hundred and thirteenth time), Thomas, Frederick and Edward Hanlon did their triple trapeze act. " The Pickwick Papers " was the attraction the week of Feb. 3.
" The Streets of New York " was revived Feb. 10, with John K. Mortimer as Badger, Chas. T. Parsloe, Jr., as Bob, Geo. Clarke as Paul, and Irene Worrell as Lucy. Kate Reignolds reappeared Feb. 24 in " Nobody's Daughter," G. C. Boniface as Black Milsom, G. H. Clarke, Victor Carrington; W. Carleton, Dennis Weyman; Geo. Lingard, Reginald; Mr. Collings, Cobblestone; Harry Ryner, Sir Oswald ; and J. K. Mortimer as Larkspur. On March 16, a drama called " Light at Last," by Thomas Fitzgerald, of Philadelphia, was played for the first time in New York and had this cast :
Robert King . Ruth Fairlawn Dennis . . .
G. C. Boniface
Celia Logan
. Harry Hawk
Catharine Fairlawn . Kate Reignolds Mrs. Millstone . . Emma Lingard Squire Edward Fairlawn, H. C. Ryner John Wilkins Millstone, G. H. Clarke
"Camille" was played March 23, with Kate Reignolds as the heroine, Geo. Boniface as de Varville, and George Clarke as Armand. J. S. Schell, scenic artist, and John Denham, machinist, took
VOL. II. — 25
386 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE DB98
a benefit March 30, when W. L. Jamison acted Wool in " The Hidden Hand." The farce," No," was also played. Geo. Clarke took his benefit March 31, with "Light at Last,^' and Fanny Mor- gan Phelps acted Anne Bracegirdle in " An Actress by Daylight." Geo. W. Thompson was seen as John Schmidt in " The Persecuted Dutchman," and Josie Harmon (her first appearance at this theatre), as Mary, in " The Little Sentinel," for Harry Ryner's benefit, April 1. For Geo. C.Boniface's benefit,April2,he acted Hamlet, with Ida Vernon as the Queen and Emma Lingard as Ophelia. M. W. Leffingwell played Romeo Jaffier Jenkins, in " Too Much for Good Nature," and John K. Mortimer was Bagshort, in " A Bull in a China Shop," for H. Tissington's benefit April 3.
The house closed April 6,for one week, for alterations, and reopened April 13 with Molyneaux St. John's adaptation of "La Belle H^ISne," called " Paris and Helen," for the first time in English in America. The Worrell Sisters appeared as Helen, Paris and Orestes. Leffingwell appeared as Romeo Jaffier Jenkins April 27. "Paris and Helen" was withdrawn June 17 for "The Grand Duchess of Gerolstcin," for the first time in this city in English. The version used was by Ben A. Baker, the stage manager. Sophie Worrell acted the Grand Duchess, Irene was the Wanda, Jennie the Prince Paul, Welsh Edwards the General Boum and James C. Dunn the Fritz. The season closed July 18. Ben Baker took a benefit July 23, when, besides other entertainments " Guy Mannering" was acted by John Nunan, Mrs. Sedley Brown, Mme. Ponisi, Louisa Eldridge, Lillie Eldridgc, Bella and Agnes Wallace, T. L. Donnelly, Frank S. Evans, J. J. Wallace, J. C Dunn, Welsh Edwards and S. B. Villa. Hogan and Hughes, song and dance men, were among the volunteers. " Betsy Baker " was also acted. The Worrell Sisters then retired from the management, and the house was closed until Aug. 3, when it was reopened as the "New Yokk Theatre." Mr. Alvin Lloyd was the new manager of this theatre, and was assisted by D. H. Harkins. The initial performance was " F'oul Play," dramatized from Chas. Reade and Boucicault's novel of that name, seen for the first time on the American stage and with this cast:
Arthur Wardlaw Michael Penfold Helen RoUeston Robert Penfold Joe Wylle . . Gen. Rollcgton John Wardlaw
McKce Rankin . Wcl»h Edwardd Louisa Hawthorne . D. H. Harking . . J. B. Studlcy . . J. G, Burnett . . M. Lanagan
Capt. Hud«on .... Wm. Harrii
Dawkins F. G, Maeder
Carbuncle Geo, Lingard
Welsh .... Edward Chajsman Nancy Rou«e .... Mary Welli Sarah Wilson .... Jane Fisher
In consequence of some difficulty between Harkins and Lloyd, the house was closed from Aug. 19 to 24, when it was reopened with " Foul Play," J. K. Mortimer as Robert Penfold, Mrs. Harry Watkin»
18693 NEW YORK THEATRE 387
as Helen Rolleston, Hattie Hamilton as Nancy, William Harris as Hudson, J. B. Studley as Wylie. Edward L. Tilton, Claude Hamil- ton, Fred Chippendale, Charles Foster and Lizzie Edwards were also in the cast. " Foul Play " ran for nine weeks, and was withdrawn Oct. 5 for " Out of the Streets," by Chas. Gayler with Henrietta Irving, Rachel Denvil, Ella Chapman, Kate Ryner, Misses Harner, Mortimer, Johnson, Mrs. Reeves, Charles Foster, Frank C. Bangs, Edward Coleman, Chas. T. Parsloe, Jr., J. B. Studley, Edwin F. Thorne, Edward L. Tilton, Harry Ryner, William Hamblin and Charles Edmonds in the cast.
After considerable litigation, the Worrell Sisters regained posses- sion of this house, and reopened it Nov. 4, giving it their own name. Their first attraction was " Under the Gaslight," with Fred B. Con- way as Byke, Mrs. F. B. Conway as Laura, J. K. Mortimer as Snorkey, Viola Crocker as Peachblossom, Chas. T. Parsloe, Jr., as Bermudas, Rose Shewell as Pearl. James C. Dunn, John Leslie Gossin, Harry Ryner, Jenny Gilmore, Mrs. Edward Wright and Sadie Cole also appeared.
Mrs. Scott-Siddons made her New York ddbut as an actress Nov. 30, as Rosalind in "As You Like It;" she repeated it Dec. i and matinee, Dec. 5 ; "Romeo and Juliet" was given Dec. 2-5 ; "The School for Scandal," Dec. 3; "The Hunchback," Dec. 7-10; "Much Ado About Nothing," Dec. 8-12; "As You Like It ," Dec. 9; "King Rene's Daughter" and "The Taming of the Shrew," Dec. 11 and matinee, Dec. 12. She was supported by J. K. Mortimer, D. H. Harkins, C. K. Mason, J. C. Dunn, William Davidge, T. J. Hind and Blanche Grey. On Dec. 14 the prices of admission were changed to ^i, 75 cts., 50 cts., and 30 cts. A burlesque on " Barbe Bleue " was produced Dec. 14, with Sophie Worrell as Barbe Bleue ; Irene, Hermia ; Jennie, Boulotte ; C. H. Morton, Popolani ; Fanny Prestige, Prince Saphir; E. Chapman, Alvarez; Mrs. Wright, the Queen, and George Lingard, King Bobeche. " La Belle Helene " was given in addition to " Barbe Bleue " Dec. 28.
On Jan. 4, 1869, " The Field of the Cloth of Gold " was presented with Sophie Worrell as Earl Darnley ; Jennie, the Duke of Suffolk ; C. Morton, Henry VIII ; Geo. Lingard, Francis I; Rendle, Sir Guy; Mrs. Wright, Queen Katherine ; Agnes Wallace, Anne Boleyn, and Jenny Gilmore, Rose de la Tour.
Feb. I McKean Buchanan and his daughter, Virginia, appeared in " The Plebeian's Daughter, or A Father's Vengeance," written for them by Henry Morford. Mr. Buchanan acted Oden and his daughter Hilda. It was followed Feb. 4, 5, 6 by "Richelieu." "Richard III" was played Feb. 8, 9; "Hamlet," Feb. 10, 11, matinee, Feb. 13 ; " Othello," Feb. 12, I3 ; " London Assurance," Feb. 17, 18 ; "Used Up "and "The Merchant of Venice," Feb. 15, 16; "The Robbers," Feb. 19 and matinee, Feb. 20. On Saturday evening,
388 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1871
Feb. 20, Neil Warner, an Australian actor, made his American d^but as Othello, Buchanan as lago and Virginia Buchanan as Desdemona. "The Lady of Lyons" was seen Feb. 22; "Hamlet," 23, 25; " Othello," Feb. 24, and the season closed Feb. 25. This was the first appearance in New York of McKean Buchanan in twenty years, he having last acted here at the Old Broadway Theatre in 1849.
This house was reopened March 10, under the direction of M. L. Finch for the first appearance of Henry Moesinger, announced as a German-American actor. " Hinko, or the King and the Executioner," was acted. J. B. Studley, Harry Ryner, H. Williams, Marie Wilkins, Sallie Hunter and Mary Everett were in the cast. It was a trashy affair, and after three performances the house was closed, and remained dark until Dec. 6, 1869, when it was reopened by a company of French actors for two weeks. Mme. Gueretti, Mme. Bertrand, Mme, Daire, Mile. Ratou, MM. Edgard, Genot and Briol were in the party. Two weeks were sufficient for them after which the house closed Dec. 18. It was next leased by Sandy Spencer, who made extensive alterations in the building. A large portion of the stone tower was taken down, while the remaining portion was concealed under an ornamental wooden fagade. The house was now christened "The Globe Theatre" and reopened Oct. 3, 1870.
Josh Hart was the acting and stage manager. A variety enter- tainment was the first attraction given by the following company : Lisa Weber, Betty Rigl (danseuse), Mile. Denier, Bertha, Julia San- ford, Sallie Maddox (afterwards Mrs. Josh Hart, who died in this city May 22, 1880), Eloise Clyde, Agnes Sutherland, John Hall, Andy McKee, Add Ryman, Hughey Dougherty, Master Barney, Chas. Vivian and Mons. Caron and sons. The burlesque, " Ernani," was given on the opening night. Sandy Spencer subsequently with- drew from the management, and Josh Hart took his place. This was the first appearance in New York, in two years, of Mr. Hart. Edward Harrigan and Sam Rickey appeared Nov. 21 for the first time.
The " Walhalla troupe" appeared Jan. 23, 1871, and on the same evening " New York as It Was and Is " was seen with Josh Hart as Mose. Delehanty and Hengler came here Feb. 13. The Walhalla troupe closed a four weeks' stay Feb. 18. The De Lave family. Prof. Nelson and sons, and a drama, " After the War, or the Old Plantation," with John Hart as Uncle Antony, Josh Hart as the ex-Confederate and Bessie Sudlow as Laura, formed the attraction Feb. 20. Orville Parkes, mimic, appeared Feb. 27, which was also the first hearing of the drama, " Day and Night," with William Whalley in the leading r61e. Jerry Cohan, with his performing dogs, com- menced March 6. " Day and Night " was repeated March 27, with Josh Hart as Jim Nassau and W. H. Whalley as Daddy Grey. Johnny Tuers, champion big shoe dancer, first appeared in this city April 3.
1872] NIXON'S AMPHITHEATRE 389
The Kiralfy family — Itnre, Bolossy, Haniola, Emilie and Kathie — appeared March 10, in the ballet pantomime, " The Pearl of Tokay." Marie Boniface was added to the company March 17. Gus Williams was heard May 15, in comic songs, followed May 22 by Robert Nickle, prestidigitateur. The season closed May 27. The house reopened for a benefit to Add Ryman and John Hart, afternoon and evening June 3, when Hart, Ryman and master Barney's minstrels appeared, prior to their summer travelling tour. On June 5, E. T. Stetson came with "Neck and Neck," and Leslie Gossin, Harold Fosberg, Kate Meek, Loduski Young and Edward Locke in his support.
Edward Eddy was the next manager of this theatre. He appeared June 26 in " The Police Spy ; " July i (matinee), he acted Badger in "The Streets of New York; " evening, "Nick of the Woods" and " His Last Legs ; " July 3, 4, " The Corsican Brothers " and " The Avenger ; " matinee, July 4, " Nick of the Woods " and " The Avenger; " matinee, July S, "The Corsican Brothers; " evening July 5, J. J. McCloskey's drama, " Tramps ; " Mr. Eddy withdrew from the theatre on the 6th. " The Ticket of Leave Man" was acted mati- nee, July 8. Lizette Bernard was seen July 10 in " Oriana," assum- ing three characters. Kate Raymond came here July 17 in " Mazeppa," and continued one week. The house closed July 22, and reopened Aug. 21, with a variety company and continued until Oct. 4. John Stetson assumed the management Oct. 16. Harrigan and Hart and Adah Richmond appeared in burlesque, and a specialty company was engaged, but Mr. Stetson withdrew Oct. 28. Sam Ryan and Van Voorst took the house Oct. 30 and gave a variety show, but retired Nov. 2, leaving the company to fill out the week. J. H. Milburn and J. G. Ford made their American debut during Ryan & Co.'s management. Harry Cunningham assumed the man- agement Nov. 13, opening in "Bertha, the Sewing Machine Girl." Miss Ellis, known as " Sappho " (daughter of Wayne Ellis), appeared Nov. 20, in Brough's burlesque, " Prince Amabel." A minstrel company occupied the stage week of Nov. 27.
This theatre was opened by James M. Nixon Dec. 18 and called "Nixon's Amphitheatre." He put a ring upon the stage and gave a series of equestrian entertainments until Jan. 6, 1872, when he closed. The company consisted of James, Frank, George and Alex Melville, Henry Welby Cook, George Adams, Mme. de Berg ; Nat Austin and W. Herbert Williams, clowns ; Frank Whittaker, ring- master ; James M. Nixon, equestrian director ; Leona Dare, trapeze performer (her first appearance in New York); William Worrell, character clown, and Frangois Siegrest. "Cinderella" was the at- traction Feb. I, 1872.
William B. Freligh was the next lessee. He opened Feb. 5, with Charles Petrie as the star, in " Pedestin, or Cute the Reliable." Several
390 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1873
members of the Bowery Theatre company were in the cast, including Mrs. W. G. Jones, Polly Booth and Mrs. Connolly. But one week satisfied Mr. Freligh, as he closed the house Feb. 10, and published the following card : " In vindication of myself, I desire to say that I have been thus prematurely compelled to close this establishment in con- sequence of the various parties who assert their right of proprietor- ship to the building, and threaten me with injunction if I attempt to continue." It was reopened April 7, by Jean Burnside, as " The Broadway Theatre."
Miss Burnside spent $800 in refitting the house. " Gold," a melo- drama by herself and R. G. Morris, was the initial performance and had this cast :
Grace Jean Burnside
Bertie Laura Thorpe
Addie Hattie Thorpe
Harry Selden . . . . J. W. Thorpe
Mog L. W. Sherlock
Jule Annie Marshall
Ah Sin F. Oliver
Dealer in Faro J. Baker
Charles Torrence . Jas. H. Taylor
John Blessington . . D. E. Ralton
Polly Ivan Michels
Mary Mrs. D. E. Ralton
Phoebe Mattie Mitchell
Miss Pell Miss Gushing
Arthur H. W. Walker
Tom Thos. Walker
Larry W. C. Butler
The house was closed April 13, and remained without a manager until opened by Aug. Daly. The destruction by fire of the Fifth Avenue Theatre, in West Twenty-fourth Street, Jan. i, 1873, caused Manager Daly to lease this house. He refitted it in a sumptuous manner, and opened it under the title of " Daly's P'ifth Avenue Theatre."
The building was practically rebuilt and almost reshaped from the back wall to front door, within sixteen working days. The initial performance Jan. 21, was "Alixe," then acted for the first time in this country. It had this cast :
Duke de Mirondol . Marquis de Ceseranne Count de Somerine . Marquis de Ceseranne
Louis James . Jas. Lewis Chas. Fisher
Henry de Kerdrau
Fanny Davenport Geo. Clarke
Claudine .... Nellie Mortimer Mme. Valory . . . Fanny Morant Valentine . . . . W. H. Beekman
Joseph J. H. Burnett
Alixe Clara Morris
Lucienne Linda Dietz
" New Year's Eve " was played March 18, 20, 22 ; "Alixe," March 17, 19, 21, 24, 26, 28, " New Year's Eve," March 25, 27, 29, and all the week of March 31, except April 3, and matinee April 5, when " Alixe " was acted for the last time.
" Old Heads and Young Hearts " was presented April 8, 9, 11, 12, and had this cast :
1873]
DALY'S BROADWAY THEATRE
39:
Lady Alice Lady Pompion Earl Pompion . Lord Roebuck Littleton Coke Kate Racket . Tom Coke . .
. Fanny Davenport Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Geo. F. Devere B. T. Ringgold Geo. Clarke Linda Dietz Louis James
Col. Racket . . . David Whiting Jesse Rural ... G. H. Griffiths
William W. H. Beekman
Bob James Lewis
Stripe John A. Mackay
Russell C. Carroll
" New Year's Eve " and " Alixe " was the bill April 14, followed April 15 by A. R. Cazaraun's play of "Divorce." It was acted May 19 for the last time, for the benefit of Mr. Davidge.
" Madelein Morel " was acted May 20.
Julian Geo. Clarke
Frederic Louis James
Baron Henry Crisp
Riedel Emma Pierce
Lord Durley . . . W. J. Lemoyne
The Abbd Chas. Fisher
Blasmitz James Lewis
Pervenche Clara Morris
Mme. Wilhelmina . Nellie Mortimer
Margaretta . Stobel . . The Beadle Countess Lotta . . Marguerite . Merope . . Phoebe . . Martha . .
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
. Frank Chapman
. . J. H. Burnett
Fanny Morant
. . Sara Jewett
. . Nina Varian
Fanny Davenport
Rosa St. Clair
Roberta Norwood
The season terminated June 28 with " Madelein Morel," and for the benefit of Joseph H. Tooker, business manager and Aaron Appleton, treasurer. The house was reopened by Mr. Daly Aug. 25. When Mr. Daly, reopened this house he changed its name once more and called it " Daly's Broadway Theatre." The first attrac- tion was Marie Aimee's Opera Bouffe company appearing in " La Fille de Mme. Angot," sung for the first time in America. The organization was under the management of C. A. Chizzola, and con- sisted of Marie Aimee, Rosine Stano, Marie Roland, Miles. Juteau, Cantrille, Gerzey, ViUiers Vandame, Marie Nardin, Deschamps, Benetti, Julien, Perraut and Nardin, MM. Emile Juteau, Duchesne, Lecuver, Eugene Duplan, Julian Deschamps, Benedick, Nardin, JuHen Salvator, Bray, Perraut and Davalis. " La Grande Duchesse" was given Sept. 15, 16, 19, matinee, Sept. 20, and 24; "La Peri- chole," Sept. 17, 18, 20, matinee, Sept. 27; "La Fille de Mme. Angot," Sept. 22, 23, 25, 27.
The dramatic season opened Sept. 29, with James W. Morrissey, treasurer; Joseph H. Tooker, business manager; Geo. F. Devere, stage manager. Bertie Vyse's comedy, " About Town," was acted for the first time in America, and had this cast :
Violet Minnie Walton
Lady Angelina .... Mary Carr Sir Walter .... M. A. Kennedy Charles D'Orsay Ogden
Salmon . Florence Jenny Dixon .
. Martin Golden Adelaide Lennox
. Cora Cassiday Geo. H. Griffiths
This was the first appearance in this theatre of Minnie Walton, who died at San Francisco, Cal. , July i, 1879. She was the wife of Fred Lyster. Her first appearance in America was made Oct. 17,
392 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1873
1868, at Maguire's Opera House, San Francisco, Cal., as Eily O'Conner in "The Colleen Bawn." She first appeared in New York Nov. 14, 1870, with the Lydla Thompson company at Wood's Museum (now Daly's Theatre), acting Venus in " Paris, or the Apple of Discord," and was seen at the Grand Opera House in this city, in " A Flash of Lightning."
Joseph K. Emmet, Sen., made his first appearance since his return from England Oct. 6, in a drama written for him by H. J. Byron, called " Max, or the Merry Swiss Boy," which had this cast :
Max . . Rockleigh Graham Bruno . Berthold Little Yosie Carline . . Schlopphausen
. J. K. Emmet
. G. F. Devere
. Geo. Griffiths
D'Orsay Ogden
Martin Golden
. Carrie Boshell
Minnie Walton
Jas. G. Peakes
Minna Miss E. Wood
Lieut. Herman . . . Geo. Gilbert
Hans Geo. E. Sands
Julius Frank Curtis
Ian Jones
Barbette Annie Deland
Amy Rosa St. Clair
" Fritz, Our Cousin German," was played Oct. 22. " Under the Gaslight " was revived Nov. 3, with this cast :
Ray TrafEord .... Jas. Peakes Pearl Courtlandt . . . Bella Golden
Demilt Geo. Gilbert Peachblossom . . Minnie Walton
Windel lUion Deveau Mrs. Van Dam . . Miss E. Wood
Byke Geo. Griffiths Bermudas Frank Curtis
Snorkey D. H. Harkins Peanuts Sadie Vivian
Justice Bowling . . . Jas. Taylor Sam J. J. Leonard
Counsellor .... D'Orsay Ogden Raflferdi .... Martin Golden
The Signal Man . . . John Jennings Old Judas Mrs. Yeamans
Laura Courtlandt . . Marie Gordon
" The Actress of Padua " was played in addition to " Under the Gaslight " Nov. 8, when Virginia Vaughan first appeared on the stage, acting Thisbe.
The " New Magdalen " was presented Nov. 10, with Carlotta Leclercq as Mercy Merrick; H. H. Wood (first appearance here), James Taylor, D'Orsay Ogden, Mary Carr and Bella Golden were also in the cast.
William Horace Lingard, Alice Dunning Lingard and Dickie Lingard opened Dec. i in "A Life's Dream." Mr. Lingard also did his sketches. " Diane," an adaptation of Dumas' comedy, was seen Dec. 9. The Lingards closed Dec. 13, and were followed Dec. 15 by Wybert Reeve, who made his American debut in "The Woman in White," which had this cast :
Count Fosco Sir Percival Walter . . Prof. Pesca The Matron
Mrs.
. Wybert Reeve Chas. J. Fyffe . Fred Maeder . Martin Golden Sidney Wilkins
Mme. Fosco .... Bella Golden
Mrs. Petherick . . . Miss Preston
Laura Helen Tracy
Marian Ida Vernon
The season closed Dec. 27, and Mr. Daly retired from the theatre.
I874D
THE GLOBE THEATRE
393
FOX'S BROADWAY THEATRE
STILL another name was given to this house when it reopened April 6, 1874, as " Fox's Broadway Theatre." G. A. Swalm was proprietor, Geo. H. Tyler acting manager and George L. Fox the principal feature. " Humpty Dumpty at Home " was produced with a prologue by Fred Lyster. It had this cast :
Humpty Dumpty . . . Geo. L. Fox Tommy Tucker . . C. Winter Ravel Goody Two Shoes . Louise Boshell Manahatta . . Marguerite Chambers Grandeur Dignity, C. T. Parsloe, Jr. Dr. Nitrous . . . W. H. Hamilton
Old One Two C. K. Fox
Peeler Coo A. G. Enos
Creamfaceloon . . . . G. Topack
Creamly Sophie Ravel
Bessie Minnie Parker
Aurora Ida Yearance
Nellie Daniels, Etta Morgan, Agnes Stanly, the Spaulding Swiss bellringers, including Georgie Dean Spaulding, harpist; Louise Boshell, the Orrin Bros., Mile. Sand, female gymnast ; Mile. Augusta La Bella, danseuse ; Mile. Venerini, Italian danseuse (first appear- ance in America) ; Prof. O'Reardon, tumbleronicon, and Prof. J. L. Davis and his trained dogs were the specialties. After a very brief season Mr. Swalm proved his claim to the title of " backer," by back- ing out and disappearing from the theatre. Geo. L. Fox, tried to keep faith with the public, but was compelled to succumb to adver- sity. The season closed May 16.
Charles Kemble Fox died in this city Jan. 17, 1875. His first performance in New York was July 18, 1853, as Gumption Cute, in " Uncle Tom's Cabin," at Purdy's National Theatre. His last appear- ance was at this theatre May 16, 1874, as the Pantaloon. He was considered to be the best Pantaloon on the American stage. He was married twice, first to the lady afterwards known as Mary Fiske, ("The Giddy Gusher," who died Feb. 4, 1889), and afterwards to the divorced wife of W. T. Dulaney.
THE GLOBE THEATRE.
ONCE again this house received a new title, when on August 3, 1874, it was reopened as " The Globe Theatre." Robert W. Butler was the manager and he presented a specialty company : Josephine de Rosa, danseuse; Phillis Glover, vocalist ; Alex. Davis, ventriloquist; John Hart, Bob Hart, Billy Courtright, Nelse Sey- mour, Geo. F. Ketchum, John Queen, J. P. Kilbourn, Billy West, Hugh Fay, George F. Macdonald, the Snow Brothers, Susie Starr and Mons. Grossi. The house closed Sept. 17.
The next managers were Jas. Campbell and Frank Murtha, who began a season Nov. 2, with a variety company, including Adah
394 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1877
Richmond, Jennie Worrell, Jennie Hughes, Winnetta Montague, Cora Adriana, the Weston Sisters, Nellie Young, Alice Daly, Harry Kernell, Harry Richmond, Barney McNulty, Andy Garland, Wm. Harris (now of the firm of Rich and Harris), Billy Garroll, Dick Sands, Erwin Thomas, and John Woodward.
James M. Ward and Winnetta Montague appeared here Dec. 21 in " Unmasked, or the Lone House on the Hook." E. T. Stetson came Dec. 24 with "Neck and Neck." Old Times Minstrelsy was the attraction Jan. 4, 1875, with a variety performance in which Harry Kernell, Harry Richmond, George Atkins, Waldron and Smith, Viola Clifton, Winnetta Montague, Adah Richmond, Jennie Hughes, Ned Fox, Walter Bray and William Devere appeared.
The next manager was Charles Shay, who took charge of the house Jan. 25, and presented his Quincuplexal troupe of variety artists. He closed Feb. 12. The house was reopened Aug. 2$ by Robert Butler, with a variety show, but he closed Sept. 11. The house was reopened Oct. 25. Tallmadge & Scofield were an- nounced as proprietors ; Robert W. Butler and C. W. Shafer as managers. The general admission was 25 cts. ; family circle, 15 cts. ; parquet 50 cts. ; reserved seats, 75 cts. Denman Thompson appeared here April 3, 1876 as Uncle Josh in " Joshua Whitcomb." Leonora Bradley was his chief support. Mr. Thompson continued for two weeks. On May 22, " Peep O' Day " was presented with Geo. F. Ketchum and Leonora Bradley in the cast. Mr. Butler's management terminated June 17, 1876. The theatre was leased by Robert Heller, the magician, who named the house " Heller's Won- der Theatre" and opened Nov. 15 and continued until May 31, 1877. The next manager was Charles E. Newton with Charles Warwick as stage director. " Unknown," by John A. Stevens, opened June 2 first time in this city. J. A. Stevens, R. C. White, G. W. Wessells, Lewis Baker, Chas. Foster, Nina Varian, Alice Newton, and Kate Livingston were in the cast.
George Wood opened the house July 30, as " Wood's Theatre," with Denman Thompson as the attraction, supported by May Nunez, Julia Wilson, Julie Coventry, Louise Dickson, Mrs. Dan Nourse, Mrs. Lew Barker, J. J. Wallace, Louis Mestayer, W. H. Fitzgerald, Geo. C. Charles, Harry Clifton, P. E. Sullivan and A. Cline. " Uncle Tom's Cabin" was given Aug. 13, with Laura Alberta as Topsy, Louis J. Mestayer as Uncle Tom and Leila Granger as Eva. Sawyer's jubilee singers appeared in the play. " The Two Orphans " was presented Aug. 20, with Laura Alberta as Louise and Alice Harrison as Henriette. George Wood retired August 22. The next lessee was Andrew Bleakley, who opened it Sept. 10 as " Neil Bryant's Opera House " and closed Dec. 8.
Once more was the name of this house changed when on Dec. 24 it was reopened as the " National Theatre."
1878]
NATIONAL THEATRE
395
Harry Watkins' successful drama, "Trodden Down, or Under Two Flags," was done for four weeks, commencing Jan. 7, 1878. Harry Watkins acted Fergus McCarthy, Welsh Edwards was Lord Desmond, Charles Webster as Dennis, Rose Watkins in the dual r81e, Mary and Blanche ; Amy Lee as Nell and Dora Stuart as Lady Desmond. " Trodden Down " was played until Jan. 30. A new local drama by Harry Watkins, entitled "Dick Drift, a Son of the Streets," was acted Jan. 31 for the first time. The cast:
Dick Drift . . Julian Stumer Hugh . . . Alice Stumer . Becky Fickle . London Bill . Judge Sturner Gilbert Blotter
Harry Watkins
G. Waite
A. C. Noyes
Kate Firmin
Dora Stuart
. J. J. Prior
Welsh Edwards
D. M. Murray
Miles Henley ... W. T. Dulaney Mme. Castile . . Annie von Behren
Jim Swipes C. Howard
Capt. Manton ... T. Hamblin
Rigor C. H. Kingsley
Pinchon R. Boothby
Mary Walton .... Rose Watkins Eve Walton Amy Lee
Mr. Watkins was born in New York, Jan. 14, 1825, and first appeared on the stage at Fort Snelling, Minn., as Jaffier in " Venice Preserved." He had enlisted in the army as a fifer, at fourteen years of age, and it was at Fort Snelling he was stationed, and where a dramatic club was formed. As there were no women in the camp, Watkins played the female r61es, and was seen as Ophelia, Desdemona, Pauline, and other heroines. He first acted in New York June 14, 1850, at the Chatham Theatre, as Edward Middleton in the " Drunkard," that being the first performance of that play in New York. In i860 he married Mrs. Charles Howard, and after a two years' starring tour of the United States, he visited England, and appeared at the Lyceum Theatre, London, in " The Pioneer Patriot." He remained abroad for three years, when, becoming possessed of Pepper's Ghost sensation, he returned home, and in August, 1863, first introduced his ghostship to the American public at Wallack's Theatre (Broadway and Thirteenth), during the sum- mer. His last appearance on the stage was Sept. 23, 1893, at the Girard Avenue Theatre, Philadelphia, as Fergus McCarthy in his own play, "Trodden Down, or Under Two Flags." He died in New York of apoplexy, Feb. 5, 1894, and was interred in the Actors' Fund plot in Evergreen cemetery. He was the author of many plays ; among them are : " Heart of the World," " Nature's Nobleman, or The Ship Carpenter of New York " (this play won the prize of ^1,000 for the best original American drama; it was subsequently changed to " Our Country's Sinews"), "Early Closing, or Clerks versus Merchants," " Where 's My Wife .' " " The Lawyer's Secret, or False and True Blood," " Victimizing," " Pioneer Patriot," " Bride of an Evening," " Jessie Wharton, or the Boy Martyrs of 1814," "A Game of Chess, or the Queen's First Move," "The Hidden Hand," " Harry Burnham, the Young Continental," " Quack
396 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1879
Martyr, or a Dyspeptic in Search of a Cure," with the title of " Laugh and Grow Fat," " Molly Bawn," " Wealth and its Tempta- tions," "Quicksands and Whirlpools," "As the Twig Is Bent," " It Takes Two to Quarrel," " A Cup of Tea," " Queen of the Brig- ands," " Mated Not Matched," " Cassy the Quadroon," " Right at Last," " True to the Last," " Love's Triumph," " Not Dead Yet," " Griffith Gaunt," " Dinorah, or the Demon's Treasure," " Diavolo, or Nobody's Daughter," " Norah the Pride of Kildare," " Foul Play," "New York After Dark," "Rebel's Doom," " Caught at Last," " Set in Gold, or the One Bright Spot," " Katey Darling," "Warrior's Wife," "How She Cured Him," "Norah O'Neal," "His Worst Enemy," " New Magdalen," " Our Daisy, or Only a Woman's Heart," "Temptation," and "A Race for Love."
" Dick Drift " was acted at this theatre until Monday evening, Feb. 25, 1878, when "Kathleen Mavourneen, or St. Patrick's Eve," was presented, with Rose and Harry Watkins as the stars, for two weeks. Marian Mordaunt was the next star, appearing March 10, in " The Workmen of New York." This actress began a second week in " Our Girl," March 17, but the house was kept open only a few nights. It was reopened March 26, with a comedy called " Remorse," with Wallace Grant the star, as Roscoe Clarendon. Grace Hall was in the cast. Five evenings was enough " Remorse " for manager and public.
The house reopened Sept. 9, 1878, for a fortnight, as " The Globe Theatre." Macallister, the magician, with a gift show, was the attraction, and Harry Weston was the manager.
Frank B. Murtha reopened the house, Saturday evening, Dec. 14, with " Only a Farmer's Daughter," produced for the first time in this city, and with this cast :
Justine Lillie Eldridge
Nance Aggie Wood
Mother Stark .... Mme. Michels
Nellie Hattie Naylor
Farmer Marion . . F. Chippendale
Sammy Green Harold Lennox Mme. Laurent Higgins . . . Joe Bates . .
E. W. Marston J. Leslie Gossin . . Laura Don . Archie Boyd . J. F. Dumont
This play ran until Jan. 6, 1879, when the Foy Sisters, Bertha and Ida, appeared in " Mischief," with W. Lytell, Florence Ellis, and Harry Allen in the cast. It was preceded by " Le Chalet, or Home from the War." John A. Stevens came Jan. 20, in "Un- known." In the cast were Wm. H. Bailey, Chas. Norris, Harry Colton, Frank Jamison, George F. Ketchum, Lottie Church, Angle Griffiths, Ada Ward, and Louise Oilman. It was acted for five weeks. " Nanette Labarre " was a melodrama by Chas. E. Newton, founded on the French commune, and presented for the first time at the raatinde Feb. 15. Florence Ellis, Walter Edmonds, E. D. Tannehill, J. L. Mason, J. Mulligan, H. Clausen, Jennie Ross and
1882;]
THE NEW THEATRE COMIQUE
397
Bessie Clifton were in the cast. On March 3 Miss Dickie Lingard appeared in " La Cigale." After being closed for three weeks, this house was reopened for one week on April 14, with Rose and Harry Watkins in " Trodden Down, or Under Two Flags," and the receipts, less the expenses, for the week, were given to Archbishop Purcell. A colored company appeared here April 28, in " Pinafore." They closed May 10. This house was reopened Oct. 20, 1879, by Lewis B. Lent, as " The New York Circus," with equestrian performances, which were continued until Dec. 4. During the same month the house was reopened as " The Broadway Novelty Theatre," with Prof. Nelson and J. Z. Little as the managers. "Nuggets, or Lost and Won," was interpreted by a dramatic company, and acrobatic feats were done by Prof. Nelson and sons. It kept open only a few nights. The house was unoccupied until leased by Edward Harrigan and Tony Hart, who made it one of the handsomest theatres in the city.
THE NEW THEATRE COMIQUE
FOR the last time in its history the name of this house was changed and on Oct. 29, 1881, it was opened as 'The New Theatre Comique." The initial production was Harrigan's play, " The Major." Harrigan and Hart were the proprietors ; John E. Cannon, manager; William Harrigan, treasurer; Ed. Harrigan, stage director; George L. Stout, prompter; and David Braham, musical director. " The Major " had this cast :
Major Gilfeather Policeman Phineas Granville Spotem . Percival John Murphy Phadrig Murphy
. . E. Harrigan Eugene O'Rourke . John Wild . Ed. Burt Harry Fisher M. F. Drew John Queen M. Bradley
Caleb Wm. Gray
Grab Jas. Tierney
Henry Huxley .... Wm. West
Ephraim Fred Queen
Burnside Emil Huser
Arabella Annie Mack
Henrietta .... Gertie Granville Bridget Mary Bird
Ed. Mack is the correct name of Ed. Burt. Matin6es were given Tuesday and Friday. The one hundredth performance of " The Major," occurred Nov. 25, 1881, and it ran until Jan. 9, 1882, when " Squatter Sovereignty " had its initial performance.
Felix Mclntire . . . Ed. Harrigan Geo. Parker . . Maurice F. Drew Darwin Dauber .... John Wild Capt. Kline .... Harry Fisher
Denny John Queen
Horatio Wm. West
Bella Annie Mack
Paddy .... Eugene O'Rourke
Kitty Mary Bird
Tommy Geo. Merritt
Fred Jas. Tierney
Josephine .... Annie Yeamans
Emily Marie Gorenflo
Widow Nolan Tony Hart
Salem Wm. Gray
Chas. Parker Ed. Burt
Terrance M. Bradley
Pedro John Oberist
Nellie Gertie Granville
Louisa Emily Yeamans
398 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1902
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De Wolf Hopper |
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The first season was a brilliant one, and closed June 3. The next season began Aug. 26, 1882, with George L. Stout's drama, "The Blackbird," for the first time and with this cast :
Con Ed. Harrigan
Maurteen Tony Hart
Goslin John Wild
Dunleevy H. A. Fisher
Ned Wm. West
Capt. Chester . . . . M. F. Drew
Mary Susie Byron
Nelly Annie Langdon
Betsy Mary Langdon
Pierre Frank Budworth
Paddy John Sparks
" Mordecai Lyons " was first acted Oct. 26, and was the first failure Edward Harrigan made as an author. " McSorley's Infla- tion " was produced Nov. 27, followed, April 2, 1883, by "The Muddy Day." The season closed May 19.
This house reopened Aug. 6, 1883, with " The Mulligan Guard Ball." The company engaged for the season was : John Wild, Geo. H. Wood, James Fox, Harry A. Fisher, John Queen, M. J. Bradley, P. C. Goldrich, Richard Quilter, Wm. West, Joseph Sparks, Jas. Barlow, Christie Miller, John Sparks, Annie Yeamans, Gertie Granville, Jenny Christie, Ada Farwell, Lizzie Finn, Sadie Morris, Annie and Kate Langdon, and Annie Hall. " Cordelia's Aspira- tions," had its first production on Nov. 5, followed April 7, 1884, by " Dan's Tribulations." The season closed May 31.
The next, and last season opened Sept. i, with " Investigation," given for the first time. The theatre was entirely destroyed by fire Tuesday, Dec. 23, 1884. The money for the advance sales for Christmas day and evening, amounting to ;JSl,ioo, was lost. The cause of the fire has always been a mystery. The company had been rehearsing a new play nearly all the night previous, it being daylight before some of the people left the building.
The ground lay idle until leased by a company of speculators, who erected a massive stone structure called " Old London Street," which was opened Feb. 26, 1887. It was leased by George B. Bunnell, who opened it Oct. 7, 1887, as "Bunnell's Museum," and his first attraction was Woodward's performing seals. Business was bad, and Mr. Bunnell gave up in January, 1888. It was used as a retail clothing store for a few weeks, commencing in December, 1888. Shortly after that and for a long time the building was in absolute and inglorious disuse. In the winter of 1896 it was converted into a gymnasium, and a sparring exhibition was given Nov. 6, 1896. The building was demolished September, 1902.
I867J THE FIFTH AVENUE OPERA HOUSE 399
BUNYAN HALL
CHEEVER'S church at the corner of Fifteenth Street and Broad- way was converted into a place of entertainment Oct. 14, 1867, and called " Bunyan Hall." The panorama " The Pilgrim " was exhibited here. It consisted of fifty large paintings, twelve feet high and from eighteen to twenty-six feet in length. These paintings consisted of " The Christian and his Family," " The Wicket Gate," "The Valiant Soldier," "The Judgment," "The Shining Ones and the Cross," " The Welcome," " The Delectable Mountain," " The Temptation," " The Fight with Apollyon," " The River of Life" "The King's Gardens," "The River of Death," " The Ascension," " The Angel Escort," " The Gates of Pearl," " The Shower of Gold," and " The Celestial City." The admission was fifty cents and one dollar.
THE FIFTH AVENUE OPERA HOUSE
WHAT was at first known as the Fifth Avenue Opera House and afterwards as the " Fifth Avenue Theatre " was situated on south side of Twenty-fourth Street, between Broadway and Sixth Avenue, and adjoined the Fifth Avenue Hotel. The building was first erected in 1 862 by Amos R. Eno, and was rented by Robert Gal- lagher and occupied as an evening stock exchange ; but it continued only a short time, as the members of the regular stock exchange passed a resolution, to close it. During the following year George Christy, Ethiopian comedian, secured a lease of it, and on Nov. 30, 1865, opened it as a ministrel hall. The front was of solid marble, and in chaste architectural style. The company was : W. S. Bud- worth, W. Birch (not Billy), J. E. Green, G. Hall, F. Abbott, J. Tan- nenbaum, C. Gardner, G. Wrightman, Hodgin, and George Christy. During the season the troupe was strengthened as follows: Dec. 11, Geo. Brant, Chas. Duval, and T. Donaldson; Dec. 18, Charles Mel- ville; Jan. IS, 1866, Frank Leslie; April 23, J. H. Surridge; April 30, Lew Myers; May 4, G. W. H. Griffin; and June 25, S. S. Purdy. Business, however, did not prove so remunerative as had been expected, but Mr. Christy managed to keep the hall open until July 4, 1866. Aug. 27 Budworth's minstrels, under the manage- ment of Wm. S. Budworth and J. Stohr, appeared and continued until January 19, 1867. Geo. Christy, who had then associated with him in the management G. W. H. Griffin, began a second term, with Griffin & Christy's minstrels Jan. 2 1 , which lasted until June 29 of that year. On Aug. 5 Ben Cotton and Sam Sharpley opened the house with Cotton & Sharpley's minstrels, but finding business unremu- nerative, the season was closed on Aug. 24. C. H. Garland then rented the premises and altered the auditorium and stage.
400 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cises
THE FIFTH AVENUE THEATRE
THE name of the house was now changed to the " Fifth Avenue Theatre," and it was opened with a burlesque company on Sept. 2. 1867. This was the first dramatic performance given in the building. The prominent members of the company were Mrs. Charles Howard (Mrs. Harry Watkins), Eugene A. Eberle, M. B. Pike, Sol Smith, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. M. W. Leffingwell, Lina Edwin, Mary Maddern, Mrs. Sedley Brown, and Millie Sackett.
The burlesques of " Cinderella," and " Too Much for Good Nature," formed the opening bill; "Fra Diavolo, or the Beauty and the Brigands," was produced Sept. 9 : Leffingwell as Beppo, Mrs. Sedley Brown as Fra Diavolo, and Millie Sackett as Zerlina. " Aladdin," Sept. 17; " Cinderella," and " Fra Diavolo," Sept. 21; "The Mer- chant of Venice Preserved," by John Brougham, Sept. 28, for the first time on any stage :
Shylock . Gratiano . Antonio . Bassanio Tubal . . Lorenzo .
M. W. Leffingwell Mrs. Sedley Brown . . E. A. Eberle . Mary Maddern . J. J. McClosky . . M. B. Pike
Launcelot Sol Smith, Jr.
Portia Mrs. Leffingwell
Jessica Lina Edwin
Prince of Morocco . Jenny Wallace Prince of Arragon . . Jenny Gilmer
Nov. II" Too Much for Good Nature '' was added to the bill ; Nov. 14, "Aladdin" and "The Widow's Victim," when Blanche Chapman appeared; Nov. 18 Mrs. Harry Watkins was seen as Jason in the burlesque of " Medea," and as Francine in " Fit to Be Duchess." " Ye Grand Queen Bess," a burlesque by Falconer, was produced for the first time Dec. 9, with Leffingwell as Queen Bess and Mrs. Watkins as Essex. Burlesque performances were then comparatively novel, and an excellent business was done until the close of the season, on Jan. 2, 1868. The reason generally assigned for the abrupt termination was that the reputation of the theatre had been injured by a tragic encounter in front of the house, be- tween two well-known rival minstrel managers, by which one person lost his life and another was severely wounded, just after the close of a matinde performance of Dec. 11.
The real cause of this trouble was the fact that Delehanty and Hengler, song and dance men, who were with Sam Sharpley's minstrels, at Boston, had signed a contract to appear at New York with Kelly & Leon's minstrels. , This caused bad blood between the two managers.
Kelly, Leon, and Sharpley happened to attend the matinee at the Fifth Avenue Theatre on this afternoon. Leon came outside and was tapped on the shoulder by Sharpley, who said:
" You have been talking about me and saying that all the property I had is mortgaged. Now, I tell you you are a d — d liar ! "
18683 THE FIFTH AVENUE THEATRE 40 1
Leon replied in equally vigorous language, which Sharpley dared him to repeat, at the same time taking off his overcoat and assum- ing a fighting attitude. Leon repeated the words, and was struck by Sharpley. Kelly, as is claimed by his friends, attempted to pre- vent the quarrel, but the three got scuffling together. Sharpley's brother, Thomas Sharpe, had been at the matinee unknown to Samuel, and now appeared on the scene and proceeded to assist him by endeavoring to floor Kelly.
" You take care of him, Tom," cried Sam, " and I '11 settle this fellow," pointing to Leon.
The latter, seeing the fight unequal — Sharpley being greatly his superior in strength — endeavored to get away, and ran toward Broadway, with Sam Sharpley in close pursuit. Meantime, a shot was heard from where the other two were quarrelling. Tom Sharpe had knocked Kelly to the ground, and then kicked him violently. Kelly requested him several times to let him get up, which he re- fused to do, and, believing his life to be in danger, drew a revolver and shot his opponent, Tom Sharpe, killing him almost instantly. Sam Sharpley, seeing this, drew a revolver, and in turn shot Kelly, the ball striking him right behind the temple. Sharpley, wounded, let go his hold, and Kelly made his way as best he could to the nearest drug store. But when he reached it and saw in a mirror how he was bleeding and battered he returned to where Sharpe was lying on the sidewalk and fired a final bullet into him.
Kelly was arrested and taken to the Twenty-sixth Street station house, where he remained several days, his condition preventing his removal. Sharpley and Leon were held in custody until after the inquest, the verdict being "that deceased came to his death from a pistol shot wound at the hands of Edwin Kelly, on Dec. 11, 1867." It was this last bit of shooting that nearly hanged Kelly, for the Coroner's assistant, who was a medical student, handed in at the inquest a diagram showing that it was from this latter bullet wound that Sharpe died. Had this diagram been evidence there would have been no escape at Kelly's trial from a verdict of murder in the first degree. But Kelly's agent proved that this assistant had never received a diploma. At any rate, when the case came up for trial he did not appear as a witness.
So the jury in the Kelly case held it was by no means certain from which bullet wound Tom Sharpe really died, whether from the first firing in self-defence or the second shooting. They there- fore gave the prisoner the benefit of the doubt. When last heard of, in 1892, Kelly was living in Australia, keeping a sheep ranch and occasionally singing in comic opera at Sydney.
During the month of June, 1868, James Fisk, Jr., leased the prem- ises, and, save the exterior walls, entirely rebuilt the theatre.
VOL. II. — 26
402 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSSg
BROUGHAM'S THEATRE.
MR. FISK, the lessee, handed over the entire control to John Brougham, who opened it Jan. 25, 1869, as "Brougham's Theatre" with the following company: John Brougham, Geo. Stod- dart, Chas. Hale, Edward Lamb, C. Edmonds, W. J. Hurley, C. Hill- yard, Carrie Crosbie, A. Matthison, Mons. Grossi, Alex H. Peck, Mr. Gray, Eliza Newton, Mrs. William Winter, Mary Carr, Andrews, Mrs. J. J. Prior, Annie Firmin, Lizzie Mahon, Effie Germon, Wilson, Hal pin, Ames, Clara Fisher, Belle Fisher, and Lizzie Eckhardt. The seats and boxes for the opening performance were sold at auction, and at times during the sale Mr. Brougham officiated as auctioneer. The premiums paid for the seats and boxes amounted to $2,677, ^"d the proceeds of the entire sale, which included some admissions, amounted to ^3,300 over and above the amount which the theatre would hold at regular prices — 1^725.
" Better Late Than Never " by John Brougham was the opening play, and had this cast:
Major Fergus O'Shaughnessy
John Brougham Reginald Wyndham . Geo. Stoddart Sir Malachi Weevyl . . Charles Hale Jacob Mellet . . Chas. J. Edmonds
Annabel Wyndham . . Eliza Newton Lady Nell Wycherlie, Mrs. W. Winter Tabitha .... Elizabeth Andrews
Squire Edward Lamb
Widow GrifHn Mary Can-
After the play John Brougham made a speech, and then came " The Dramatic Review of 1868," a burlesque of many plays which had been produced at other theatres in this city during that year.
On Feb. 8 " An Irish Stew, or the Mysterious Widow of Long Branch," derived by Brougham from the same source as " A Bull in a China Shop," was seen for the first time : Brougham played Bryan Magilder ; Hale, Timothy John Cadwallader ; Lamb, Mouser ; Stod- dart, Frederick Augustus Wilter; Lizzie Mahon, Lucy Cadwallader, and Annie Firmin, EfRe Germon, Mrs. Winter, and Chas. Edmonds in the remaining parts. " The Dramatic Review " continued until Feb. 22, when " Pocahontas " and " A Gentleman from Ireland " formed the programme. Jennie Kimball made her d^but March i, as Jenny Leatherlungs, in "Jenny Lind at Last." " An Irish Stew" and " Pocahontas " were acted March 4, followed March 8 by " Much Ado About a Merchant of Venice," — Brougham's burlesque revised and rewritten. It had this cast :
Shylock John Brougham
Lorenzo Effie Germon
Bassanio ...... EHza Newton
Antonio .... Arthur Matthison
Tubal Chas. Hale
Gratiano Annie Firmin
Launcelot .... Miss E. Allen Chief Justice . . . Geo. Stoddart
Page .
Crier .
Portia
Jessica
Nerissa
Associate Judges
Prince of Arragon
. . Clara Fisher . . W. J. Hurley . Mrs. J. J. Prior Miss L. Eckhardt . Miss Amy Ames Grossi and Crosbie . Chas. Edmonds
King Theodore of Abyssinia, F. Gough
1869] THE FIFTH AVENUE THEATRE 403
Effie Germon closed here March 13, and Lizzie Mahon assumed the r61e of Lorenzo; March 15, "A Gentleman from Ireland" pre- ceded the burlesque. For Brougham's closing week, he appeared as O'Callaghan in " His Last Legs," followed by " Much Ado About a Merchant of Venice." Mr. Brougham withdrew from the man- agement April 3.
Charles Hale died at Wilton, N. Y., Feb. 11, 1876. He was born in England June 23, 18 19. He made his first appearance in America at the Old Broadway Theatre, this city. May 17, 1852, for Mme. Ponisi's benefit, performing Sam Warren in "The Poor Relation." When Wallack's Theatre, on Broadway near Broome Street, was first opened as such, Sept. 8, 1852, Mr. Hale was a member of the com- pany, and so continued for several seasons. He had not acted for some years prior to his demise, as the disease from which he was suffering caused a loss of memory at times, which prevented him from pursuing his profession.
The next title of this house was " The Fifth Avenue Theatre." On April 5, 1869, Mr. Fisk, the lessee, undertook the management of the house himself, and gave it its old name of the Fifth Avenue Theatre. His first offering was the opera bouffe company from the Grand Opera House this city. Adolph Birgfeld was the manager. The operas produced were : " La Perichole," with Irma and M. Aujac in the leading r61es, April 5, matinee April 10, 12, matinee April 17, 19, 26, May 3, and matinee May 8 ; " La Grande Duchesse," with Tostee and M. Aujac in the leading characters, April 6, 13, 20, 27, May 4, 1 1 ; " Barbe Bleu," with Irma and Aujac in the cast, April 7, 14, 21, matinde April 24, 28, matinee May 1,5;" Orphee Aux Enfers," by Tostee and Aujac, April 8, 15; " Les Bavards " and " La Chanson de Fortunio " April 9, 16, 23 ; " La Belle Helene," with Tostee and Decr6, April 10, 17, 22, 30, May 13. Two new operas were produced April 24 for the first time, " Mons. Landry " and " Le MaJtre de Chapelle," and repeated April 29.
The house was closed May i, and the company appeared at the Academy of Music, for the benefit of Tostee. " Le Mariage Aux Lanternes" was produced, with Irma and Tostee in the cast, May 6, 7, 8 ; " Mons. Choufleuri " and " Mons. Landry " were given May 15, with Tostee in both pieces. " Les Dragons de Villars " was sung May 10, for the first time in America, and repeated May 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, matinee May 22, June i, 2, 4. In the third act Marie Bonfanti the danseuse and a ballet appeared. The opera had this cast:
Rose Friquet .... Mile. Irma
Georgette Mile. Duclos
Sylvian M. Aujac
Belamy M. Tholer
Thibaat M. Lagriffoul
Pastor M. Hamilton
The manager of the company retiring, Mile. Irma held the reins for a brief period, and was succeeded by M. Benedick. Tostee re-
404 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE E'Seg
appeared May 18-22 as Boulotte in "Barbe Bleu." Tostee's fare- well occurred May 3 1 , when were presented " La Grande Duchesse " (2d act), "La Belle Helene" (2d act), "Barbe Bleu" (3d act). During the evening Marie Bonfanti, Mons. Novissimo, and a ballet were seen. The company appeared at Brooklyn on the " off nights " in June. " La Perichole " was sung, matinde and evening, June 5 ; " Barbe Bleu " June 7, 9, with Decr6 as Barbe Bleu, and Irma as Boulotte ; " La Perichole " June 8, 10, Irma as the heroine, and Aujac as Pequillo. Mile. Morlacchi, Miles. Letti, Duchaleau, Mazzeri and Malvina Evers appeared in a grand ballet.
M. Aujac made his last appearance June 11, as Barbe Bleu. Matinee June 12 Mile. Desclauzas made her first appearance at this theatre, acting Pequillo in "La Perichole," with Irma in the title r61e. The Morlacchi ballet company appeared in the " Can-can."
For the week of June 14, " La Perichole " was sung with Irma in the title r61e. The season closed June 19.
The Selwyn Boston Theatre company appeared June 21 in "Dora," with this cast :
Farmer Allen . . Frederic Robinson Luke Bloomfield . C. H. Vandenhoff Mary Morrison . . Kitty Blanchard Dora Lizzie Price
Willie Miss Timony
William Allen .... H. F. Daly Jim Blunt . . . . O. A. Dinsmore
This was followed by the burlesque "Black Eyed Susan," cast thus:
Capt. Crosstree Lord High Admiral Dolly Mayflower . Admiral of the Blue Dame Hatley . .
Stuart Robson Dan Maguinnis . Lillie Vining . J. B. Bradley
Harry Josephs
Hatchet . Doggrass Raker . William . Susan
. H. F. Daly
Harry Pearson
A. D. Billings
Kitty Blanchard
. . Mary Cary
This was Harry Josephs' first appearance in New York. The company closed July 3, and appeared at Wallack's Theatre July 5.
Augustin Daly was the next manager of this theatre. He fitted it up very handsomely, and opened Aug. 16, 1869, with the follow- ing company: Edward L. Davenport, D. H. Harkins (stage mana- ger), Geo. Holland, James Lewis, T. F. Egbert, W. Beekman, Frank Chapman, George Clarke, J. B. Polk, W. Davidge, H. C. Ryner, G. C. Jordan, H. Stewart, J. M. Cooke, Pierce, Peck, Mrs. F. S. Chan- frau, Mrs. Clara Jennings, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert, Mrs. Marie Wilkins, Fanny Davenport, Agnes Ethel, Marie Longmore, Emillie Kiehl, Emily Lewis, Amy Ames, Norwood, Tyson, and Rowland. James Fisk was still proprietor of the theatre; Robert Stoepel, musical director. Robertson's comedy, " Play," was the initial performance, and had this cast :
i869j
THE FIFTH AVENUE THEATRE
405
Hon. Bruce Farquhar, E. L. Davenport Chevalier Browne . . . Geo. Clarke Hauptman von Stockstadt, W. Davidge Graf von Staufenberg . W. Beekman Mr. Bodmin Todder . . Geo. Holland Mrs. Kinpeck . . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Frank Price J. B. Polk
Croupier H. C. Ryner
Teller J. Peck
Keller G. C. Jordan
Old Gray .... Frank Chapman Spendfast . . . ^. . J. M. Cooke
Amanda Clara Jennings
Rosie Agnes Ethel
Flower Girl Emily Lewis
" Dreams " was acted Sept. 6, with this cast :
The Rittmeister . . E. L. Davenport Earl of Loamshire . Wm. Davidge Lady Clara Vere de Vere
Clara Jennings Frau Harfthal . . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Lena Agnes Ethel
Rudolf Geo. Clarke
John Hibbs James Lewis
Earl Leo J. B. Polk
Old Gray Geo. Holland
This play was originally produced under the name of " My Lady Clara." " Old Heads and Young Hearts " was presented Sept. 27, 28, Oct. I, and was thus cast:
Miss Rockett . Lady Pompion . Jessie Rural Littleton Coke Earl Pompion .
. Marie Longmore Mrs. G. H. Gilbert . . W. Davidge . . Geo. Clarke . . H. C. Ryner
Lord Roebuck . . . . T. F. Egbert
Bob Jas. Lewis
Lady Alice .... Clara Jennings Tom Coke .... D. H. Harkins
"London Assurance" was seen Sept. 29, 30, and Oct. 2, with E. L. Davenport as Sir Harcourt Courtley (his first appearance in this city in that r61e). Fanny Davenport (first time) as Lady Gay, and Marie Wilkins (first appearance at this theatre) as Pert.
Mrs. Scott-Siddons appeared here Oct. 4 in " Twelfth Night," its first performance in New York in twelve years. It had this cast :
Geo. Jordan, Jr.
. T. F. Egbert
. F. Chapman
. H. C. Ryner
W. Beekman
Viola Mrs. Scott-Siddons
Olivia Agnes Ethel
Maria .... Fanny Davenport
Malvolio Geo. Clarke
Sir Toby Belch . . . W. Davidge Duke Orsini ... D. H. Harkins Clown Jas. Lewis
Valentine
Sebastian
Fabian .
Antonio .
Justice
Sir Andrew Aguecheek . . J. B. Polk
" Twelfth Night " enjoyed a run of two weeks, and was followed, Oct. 18, 19, 20, by " As You Like It." Rosalind and Celia were played on alternate nights by Mrs. Scott-Siddons and Clara Jennings. " King Rene's Daughter " was produced Oct. 22 and matinde Oct. 23, with D. H. Harkins as Sir Tristan, Mrs. Siddons as lolanthe.and Miss M. Andrews (first appearance) as Martha.
The cast of " As You Like It " was this :
Rosalind, 18, 20, 23, Mrs. Scott-Siddons Rosalind 19, 21, 22 . Clara Jennings Celia, 19, 21, 22 . Mrs. Scott-Siddons Celia, 18, 20, 23 . . Clara Jennings Duke Frederick . . . J. M. Cooke
Banished Duke . . . . J. B. Polk
Le Beau Emily Lewis
Oliver Geo. Jordan, Jr.
Jaques de Bois . . . . M. Pierce Adam H. C. Ryner
4o6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D869
Touchstone . . . . W. Davidge Orlando Geo. Clarke
Corin Frank Chapman Charles Peck
Phebe Emillie Kiehl Sylvanus T. F. Egbert
Hymen Miss Amy Ames William W. Beekman
Amiens H. Stewart Audrey Marie Wilkins
Jaques D. H. Harkins
Matinde Oct. 23, "The Love Chase" and "King Rent's Daughter." Oct. 25 " She Would and She Would Not " was acted for the first time in New York in eleven years. The cast was :
Hypolita . . . Mrs. Scott-Siddons
Don Phillip Geo. Clarke
Manuel Wm. Davidge
Octavio D. H. Harkins
Trippanti Jas. Lewis
Rosare Agnes Ethel
Violetta .... Fanny Davenport
Flora Marie Longmore
Diego Geo. Holland
Soto F. H. Evans
Nov. 8, " Much Ado About Nothing," was seen with Mrs. Scott- Siddons as Beatrice. She terminated her engagement Nov. 13, with " As You Like It " at the matinee, and " Much Ado About Nothing " in the evening.
" She Would and She Would Not " is derived from Spanish sources — a Spanish novel translated into English, with the title of " The Trepanner Trepanned," which John Learnerd converted into a dramatic composition called " The Counterfeits," and performed Aug. 29, 1678, at the old Dorset Garden Theatre, with Betterton in the cast. Colley Cibber took the plot and made " She Would and She Would Not " out of it. Macklin, Bannister, Jr., Lewis, Fawcett, Mundon, and Harley became famous as Trippanti. Don Manuel has been sustained by Yates, Shater, Dowton, and W. K. Farren; Don Phillip by C. Kemble and Wallack, and Hypolita was Mrs. Jordan's favorite part. Among other celebrated exponents of this part was Peg Woffington.
I doubt if since the days of Ellen Tree so charming a Rosalind has trod the American stage as Mrs. Scott-Siddons. Nature, which seemed to have created this beautiful woman in her most aesthetic mood, denied her the necessary physique for those heavier tragic r61es which have so long been associated in the public mind with histrionic ability of the highest order. A cause of the slowness of the growth of her popularity is undoubtedly due to the fact that when she first appeared here she lacked stage experience, and did unfamiliar things in familiar parts. But in spite of all these impedi- ments to a perfect and immediate success, her undoubted talents, exquisite beauty, and high culture entitled her to far more considera- tion and praise than she received. She was a fine German and French scholar, having acted, and acted well, in both languages. She personated in French the heroines of Corneille, Moliere, and Racine, and played with fluent ease the Mary Stuart of Schiller in its original tongue.
1869;]
THE FIFTH AVENUE THEATRE
407
Mary Frances Scott-Siddons died in Paris, France, Nov. 19, 1896, and was buried in Woking cemetery, London, Eng. She was born in India in 1844. At eighteen years of age she was married to a naval officer named Canter, who afterwards changed his name to Scott-Siddons. She made her debut in Nottingham Eng., in 1866 and first acted in London, April 8, 1867, at the Haymarket Theatre, as Rosalind in " As You Like It." She made her Ameri- can debut as a reader at Newport, R. I., during the summer of 1868. She first appeared in New York as a reader Oct. 26 of that year, at Steinway Hall. Her first appearance as an actress in America was at the Boston Museum, and she first appeared in New York on the dramatic stage, Nov. 30, 1868, as Rosalind at the Worrell Sisters' Theatre. Her last appearance in this city was Dec. 17, 1891, at Palmer's Theatre, in " What a Woman ! "
Mrs. Frank Chanfrau made her first appearance here Nov. 15, 1869 as Esther Eccles in " Caste."
D'Alroy Geo. Clarke
Hawtrey J. B. Polk
Dixon Pierce
Polly Fanny Davenport
Eccles W. Davidge
Gerridge Jas. Lewis
Marquise . . . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
E. L. Davenport repeated his performance of Sir Harcourt, in " London Assurance," Nov. 22, followed by Sir Giles Overreach, in " A New Way to Pay Old Debts." Nov. 23 Theresa Shirk, a lady who had been heard in this city as a reader, at Steinway Hall, made her ddbut as Margaret Overreach. "Old Heads and Young Hearts," with Mrs. F. S. Chanfrau as Lady Alice, Nov. 24; " Every- body's Friend " Nov. 25, 26, and matinee Nov. 27; evening Nov. 27, " A New Way to Pay Old Debts." " Daddy Gray " was first acted here Dec. i, cast as follows :
Daddy Gray . . .EL. Davenport
Harry Geo. Jordan, Jr.
Johnny Master Heme
Jessie Bell Agnes Ethel
Mrs. Bell Marie Wilkins
Kitty Clatterby . . Marie Longmore
" Checkmate " was played the same night ; " Wives as They Were and Maids as They Are " was acted for the first time Dec. 6, and had this cast:
Peter Bell H. C. Ryner
Travers F. H. Evans
Augustus Jas. Lewis
Drudge F. Chapman
Lortie . . . Miss M. McCormack
Sir William Dorrillon, E. L. Davenport
Lord Priory Wm. Davidge
Sir George Evelyn . D. H. Harkins Norberry .... Geo. F. Devere Miss Dorrillon . . Mrs. Chanfrau
Oliver Geo. Holland
Bronzely Geo. Clarke
Lady Mary . . . Fanny Davenport Lady Priory .... Agnes Ethel
On Dec. 9 and matinde Dec. 10 and 11, "The Irish Heiress" was played. " Don Caesar de Bazan " (E. L. Davenport as the hero) was acted Dec. 13, 14, 18; also "A Poor Goose." James Lewis
4o8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D870
acted Major De Boots in " Everybody's Friend " Dec. 16 and matinee Jan. i. 1870. " The Duke's Motto " was produced Jan. 20, with Edward L. Davenport as Lagadere.
" The Busybody " was presented Jan. 3, for the first time in New York in thirteen years. It was given all the week except at the matinee Jan. 5, when E. L. Davenport enacted Sir Giles Overreach in " A New Way to Pay Old Debts," for his benefit. James Lewis was the Marrall.
Olive Logan's comedy, "Surf," was first produced Jan. 12, and enjoyed a run of one month. It had this cast:
Evans
George Clarke
Miss Euphrosyne Noble, Lily Vining
Miss Alice Warren . . Emillie Kiehl
Mrs. Fanny Flipaway, Marie Wilkins
Madame Trfes Sal^e . Miss Norwood
Miss Tootsey Noble . . Miss Ryner
Mr. Barker Blunt . . W. Davidge
Mr. Jenkins . . . George Holland
General Madison Noble, G. F. Devere Lieutenant Arthur McKim
F. H Mr. Philip Varney, Peter Lepper,
Mr. Simon Schweinfleish, James Lewis Mr. Lothario Smasher, George Parkes Orinoko Virginia Smith, W. Beekman Smart Master Benny Flipaway Mrs. Ogle
Miss Cushman Arethusa Ogle General Grant . . George Jordan, Jr. Norah O'Rourke Mrs. Madison Noble, Fanny Davenport
"The Busybody" was repeated Jan. 14. Sardou's " Frou Frou " had its first representation Jan. 15, with this cast:
Mrs
F. Chapman
G. H. Gilbert
Emily Lewis
. Amy Ames
in America
Henri Sartorys Brigard . Baron de Cambri Pitou
Vincent . . . Zanetto . . . Gilberte . . . Louise . . .
Geo. Clarke W. Davidge . Jas. Lewis
G. F. Devere H. Stewart
W. Beekman Agnes Ethel
Kate Newton
Pauline Amy Ames
Angelique Emily Lewis
Comte de Valreas . . Geo. Parkes Baronne de Cambri, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert The Governess . Roberta Norwood Georgia (Sartorys' child)
Gertie Norwood
This was Kate Newton's first appearance at this theatre, and the first appearance on any stage of Gertie Norwood.
L. F. Harrison assumed the business management April 11. Extra matindes of " Frou Frou " commenced Wednesday, April 20. " The Good Natured Man " was acted April 24, for the first time in this city in fifty-two years, and had this castj:
Sir Wm. Honeywood D. H. Harkins Miss Richland . Fanny Davenport Jas. Lewis
Mr. Twitch G. Jordan, Jr.
Little Flanigan . . . F. Chapman
Butler W. Beekman
Dubardieu Mr. Pierce
Olivia Emillie Kiehl
Mrs. Croaker Amy Ames
Garnett Miss Rowland
Dr. Johnson's original prologue was delivered prior to the play by D. H. Harkins,, and at the close of the performance William Winter's
Mr. Lofty . . Mr. Crocker Mr. Honeywood Leontine . . . Jarvis . . .
W. Davidge
Geo. Clarke
Frank Evans
G. F. Devere
1870]
THE FIFTH AVENUE THEATRE
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epilogue was spoken by the company. Agnes Ethel had a benefit April 25, when "Frou Frou" began its tenth week and was played for the last time May 23.
On June 7, " Fernande " was acted for the first time, and had this cast:
The Marquis Andre . . Geo. Clarke Phillip Pomerol . . D. H. Harkins The Commander Jarbi . . Jas. Lewis The Countess Clothilda (her
first appearance here), Fanny Morant Georgette (first appearance on
the stage) .... Linda Dietz Madame Seneschal, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Madame de la Brienne . . Amy Ames Peachbloom . Roberta A. Norwood
Roqueville G. F. Devere
Bracassin Geo. Parkes
The Baron F. Chapman
Santa Cruz Mr. Pierce
Alfred H. Stewart
Frederic . . . . W. H. Beekman
Fernande Agnes Ethel
The Baroness . . . Miss Rowland Gibralter .... Fanny Reeves Therese Emillie Kiehl
The season closed July 9.
The next season began Sept. 13, 1870, with the following com- pany: D. H. Harkins, Mortimer, Holland, Louis Barrett, James Lewis, William Davidge, Geo. F. Devere, Frank Chapman, Pierce, J. B. Polk, Parker, W. H. Beekman, Harry Bascomb, Brown, Agnes Ethel, Fanny Davenport, Clara Morris, Amy Ames, Nellie Morti- mer, Fanny Morant, Kate Newton, Mrs. William Winter, Kate Claxton, Gertrude Kellogg, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert, lone Burke, Emily de Lesdernier, Roberta A. Norwood, and Louise Volmer.
The opening play was Aug. Daly's dramatization of Wilkie Collins' novel, " Man and Wife," acted for the first time on any stage, when Clara Morris made her first appearance in this city, as Anne Syl- vester. This actress was engaged by Mr. Daly on the suggestion of James Lewis, not as leading lady, but to play such parts as he thought might fit her. Agnes Ethel declined to appear as Anne Sylvester, and lone Burke, who was the next actress in rank, had gone for her holiday. In this emergency Mr. Daly concluded to give the character to his " raw Western recruit." Having a quick study, Clara Morris did not delay the production of the play one day. She made an immediate success, being recalled in one of the earlier scenes of the play, before the act terminated. This drama had the most extended run of any produced up to that time. Her next suc- cessful role was Lucy Carter in " Saratoga " (loi performances). Clara Morris continued with Mr. Daly until the theatre was destroyed by fire, and she went to the Globe Theatre (Broadway and Eighth Street) with him Jan. 21, 1873. At the close of this season, June 28, she went to the Union Square Theatre, where she appeared Nov. 17, 1873, in " The Wicked World." Nov. 30, 1874, she was married to F. C. Harriott. Clara Morris is unquestionably a very remarkable actress within certain limitations. It is true that her range of expression is not large, and that her style is far from ver- satile; but at her best and in her peculiar vein she is without a
41 o A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D871
rival on our stage. At times she reveals flashes of decided genius, especially in her portrayal of phases of intense feeling arising out of mental suffering. In the lighter and less demonstrative aspects of her art, however, she is not so happy. At times, in her passion for intensity of style, she approached dangerously near the verge of melodrama. It has long been held by many that Clara Mor- ris reached her highest standard of dramatic art as Cora in " L' Article 47."
After a run of eight weeks, " Man and Wife " was withdrawn Nov. 19, and Nov. 21 " The Hunchback " was acted, with the first appear- ance this season of Agnes Ethel, who played Julia ; Mrs. William Winter made her first appearance here Nov. 22 as Caroline Dormer in " The Heir at Law." " Fernande " was revived Nov. 24, when Amy Ames first appeared this season as Therese. Fanny Morant and Nellie Mortimer (Mrs. G. F. Devere) also made their first ap- pearance this season. " The Heir at Law" was played Dec. 6 ; " The Hunchback " Dec. 8 ; " London Assurance " Dec. 9, 10, and 19, with William Davidge as Sir Harcourt Courtley. It was announced as his first appearance in that character in New York, but this was a great mistake, as I saw him play it again and again at the Old Broadway Theatre. He acted it with Charlotte Cushman as Lady Gay, with Julia Dean as Lady Gay, and with several other famous actresses. " Twelfth Night," with Mr. Davidge as Malvolio, was played Dec. 12, 13 ; " Man and Wife " Dec. 14, 20; " Fernande " Dec. 16, 17. Sunday evening, Dec. 18, Kate Fields delivered a lecture on Charles Dickens. " Saratoga " was acted for the first time Dec 21. It was magnificently put on the stage, and the drawing-room scenes were marvels of stage setting. David Whiting first appeared at this theatre on this occasion.
On Jan. 19, 1871, a matinee performance was given for the Geo. Holland fund. " Saratoga " was acted for the one hundred and thirty-third time on March 27, for Mrs. G. H. Gilbert's benefit.
Boucicault's adaptation of Lessieri's story, " LaFille du Sud," was produced March 28, under the title of " Jezebel." It proved a failure, and was withdrawn after April 8. It had this cast :
Geo. D'Artignes . Capt. Breitman Mme. D'Artignes Alfred Ravel . . Gertrude . . .
D. H. Harkins W. Davidge, Sr. . Clara Morris .George Parkes . Mrs. Devere
Cristol Jas. Lewis
Halma ., Geo. Devere
Margaret Linda Dietz
Laicele .... Miss. R. Norwood
Charles Mathews began an engagement here April 10 in " Married for Money" and "Patter vs. Clatter." "The Critic" and "A Thousand a Year " were acted April 24. As Don Whiskerando in the first piece Mr. Davidge made a great hit. Mr. Mathews ap- peared May 8 in his original character of Sir Charles Coldstream in "Used Up;" May 10, 12, "The Bachelor of Arts" and the farce,
1872]
THE FIFTH AVENUE THEATRE
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" Mr. Catherwood, or Out of Sight, Out of Mind ; " May 15, Byron's comedy, " Not Such a Fool as He Looks," was produced.
The season closed May 27, and a summer term commenced May 29, with " The Golden Fleece," and " The Comical Countess," when Charles Mathews took a benefit, and Mrs. Charles Mathews made her first appearance in this city in thirteen years. She acted Medea in the first piece. Fanny Davenport took a benefit June S, and played Lady Gay in " London Assurance," with E. L. Davenport as Sir Harcourt Courtley and Julia Gaylord (^first appearance in this city) as Grace. Julia Gaylord was Mrs. Fred Packard. She died in Brooklyn, N. Y., April 18, 1894. Wilkie Collins' "No Name" was seen June 7 for the first time on any stage. Clara Morris was the Magdalen. The play was withdrawn after thirteen performances. " Delmonico's, or Larks Up the Hudson," was done June 20, with Clara Morris as Constance. It ran until July 10, when it was taken off, and Wm. Davidge, for his benefit, July 10, acted Crummies in " The Savage and the Maiden ; " also an original two-act comedy called " An Angel." This bill was presented all the week. The season closed July 19.
The next season was opened Sept. 5, 1871. The company was: W. Davidge, Jas. Lewis, George Parkes, D. H. Harkins, Beekman, Pierce, Fanny Morant, Fanny Davenport, Linda Dietz, Clara Mor- ris, Mrs. Gilbert, Miss Carston, Louise Volmer, Geo. F. Devere, W. J. Le Moyne, Geo. H. Griffiths, H. Crisp, Owen S. Fawcett, Mary Cary, David Whiting, J. G. Burnett, Frank Chapman, Kate Newton, Louis James, Nellie Mortimer, Ida Yearance, Maria Fane, Kate Claxton, Kate Firm in, Roberta Norwood. D. H. Harkins, stage manager ; John Moore, prompter, and R. Stoepel. " Divorce " was the first production of the season. This "play of contempo- raneous interest," as Mr. Daly called it, was a dramatization of Anthony Trollope's novel, " He Knew He Was Right." It ran two hundred nights, and had this cast :
Alfred Adriance Templeton Jitt Fanny Ten Eyck Mrs. Ten Eyck Lulu Ten Eyck Judge Kemp . Mrs. Kemp Burrit . . . Henry Duncan De Witt . . Christmas . .
. D. H. Harkins . . James Lewis . . Clara Morris . . Fanny Morant
Fanny Davenport
David Whiting
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
. W. J. Le Moyne
. . Henry Crisp
Wm. Davidge, Sr. . Frank Chapman
Kitty^ Ida Yearance
Nellie Kate Claxton
Pam John Burnett
Capt. Lynde .... Louis James
Dr. Lang Geo. Devere
Jim Owen S. Fawcett
Molly Nellie Mortimer
Flora Mary Cary
Grace Linda Dietz
Jenny Louise Volmer
A special matinee of "Divorce" was given Jan. i, 1872, when Jules Levy executed a cornet solo.
The company left Jersey City Feb. 22, at 8.03 a. m. for Philadel- phia, arriving there at 10.15 A. m. They commenced a performance
412 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSyz
of " Divorce " at i p. m. which terminated at 4.20. At 4.45 they left for New York, arriving in Jersey City at 6.5S, and performed the play at the Fifth Avenue the same night.
" Old Heads and Young Hearts " was acted March 19, with Geo. H. Griflfiths (first appearance here) as Jesse Rural.
"Fernande" was revived March 20 for the benefit of Fanny Morant. " Wives as They Were, and Maids as They Are " was played March 21. " The Provoked Husband " March 22-23 ; " Frou Frou" March 25.
" Article 47 " had its first production here April 2, and Clara Mor- ris' acting of Cora made it the sensation of the day. The cast was :
Count De Rives . George Duhamel M. Chatelard . . Mme. Duhamel . Dr. Paul Combes Henry Delille . . Foreman of Jury - Baroness . . . Victor . . . .
. Geo. H. Griffiths
. . Harry Crisp
. Owen S. Fawcett
Mrs. G. H. Griffiths
. . W. Davidge
. . Louis James
... J. Burnett
Fanny Davenport
George Parkes
Potain James Lewis
Old Simon . . . . W. J. Le Moyne
Marcelle Linda Dietz
Countess . . . Roberta Norwood President .... D. H. Harkins
Lauristot Geo. Devere
Cora Clara Morris
Lizette Ida Yearance
Marie Louise Volmer
Clara Morris took a benefit May 15, and " Article 47" was acted for the forty-seventh time. It was acted for the seventy-seventh and last time, June 15, when the season closed.
The next season opened Sept. 3, 1872, with the following company : Fanny Davenport, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert, Kate Claxton, Rosa Deerham, Clara Morris, Linda Dietz, Mary Cary, Roberta Norwood, Miss Grif- fiths, Fanny Morant, Sara Jewett, Nellie Mortimer (Mrs. G. F. De- vere), Mrs. C. Abbott, Chas. Fisher, James Lewis, Charles Rockwell, J. F. Davens, Frank Chapman, Louis James, W. J. Le Moyne, James G. Peakes, Edmond Pierce, Georgie Langley (Mrs. Charles Furbish), Miss Deane, W. Beekman, Wm. Davidge, Henry Crisp, Owen S. Fawcett, D. Whiting, J. G. Burnett, Mrs. Barnes, George Clarke, B. T. Ringgold, G. H. Griffiths and G. Godfrey. The initial per- formance was Bronson Howard's comedy " Diamonds," which had this cast:
Hamilton WyckofiE Dr. Shuttle worth 'Enery Thomas . Mrs. Skidmore Mrs. Plunkett Mrs. Vandyke Reddington . . Uncle Ned . . Truesdell . . .
. . H. Crisp
W. Davidge
. O. S. Fawcett
Nellie Mortimer
Georgie Langley
Fanny Morant
C. H. RockweU
W. J. Le Moyne
B. T. Ringgold
Jerome G. H. Griffiths
Plunkett J. G. Burnett
The Todd . . . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Percival Geo. Clarke
Todd James Lewis
Judge David Whiting
Nelly .... Fanny Davenport
Herminie Clara Morris
Mabel Sara Jewett
" Diamonds " was withdrawn Oct. 28, for " The Road to Ruin " when Charles Fisher made his first appearance as Dornton, H. Crisp as Harry Dornton, George Clarke as Charles Goldfinch, O. S. Fawcett
1872]
THE FIFTH AVENUE THEATRE
413
as Jacob, Mary Gary as Jenny, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert as Widow Warren, and Linda Dietz as Sophia. Oct. 30, and matinee Nov.2, " The Belle's Stratagem," was played, with Louis James as Doricourt, Mr. Davidge as Old Hardy, Geo. Clarke as Flutter, Fanny Davenport as Letitia, Fanny Morant as Mrs. Rockett and Linda Dietz as Lady Frances.
" Everybody's Friend " was seen Nov. 4 for the first time in three years and had this cast :
Felix Featherly . Major De Boots . Mrs. Swansdowne
Louis James
James Lewis
Fanny Morant
Mrs. De Boots Icebrook . . Mrs. Featherly
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert . B. T. Ringgold . . . Sara Jewett
On Nov. 6-9, for the first time in seventeen years, " The Incon- stant, or Wine Works Wonders," was produced, with this cast :
Old Mirabel . Duratette . . First Bravo Bissarre . . . Young Mirabel
G. H. Griffiths
B. T. Ringgold
, . . J. Burnett
Fanny Davenport
. . Geo. Clarice
Lamerce .... Georgie Langley
Petit O. S. Fawcett
Oriana Clara Morris
Maid Miss Deane
" The Inconstant " is taken from " The Wild Goose Chase," by Beaumont and Fletcher. Several of the names of the characters were copied, and the language of whole scenes altered from blank verse to simple prose. In 1 807, the scene in the fourth act, between Duretette and Bisarre, was hissed for its grossness, portions of which have been retained by managers ever since.
"The Road to Ruin" was given Nov. 11; "The Belle's Strata- gem" Nov. 12, 13.
" The Merry Wives of Windsor " was revived Nov. 19, with this cast:
Sir John FalstafF . . . Chas. Fisher Mrs. Ford . . . Fanny Davenport Dr. Caius .... W. J. Le Moyne
Ford Geo. Clarke
Anne Page Sara Jewett
Mrs. Page Fanny Morant
"The School for Scandal" was presented Dec. 9, 11, 13, and cast thus:
Shallow . . . Hugh Evans . Dame Quickly Slender . . . Page . . .
. D. Whiting W. Davidge Mrs. Gilbert James Lewis Louis James
Sir Peter Teazle . . . Chas. Fisher Charles Surface . . Geo. H. Clarke Sir Benjamin Backbite, B. T. Ringgold Lady Teazle . . Fanny Davenport Mrs. Candour . . . Fanny Morant Lady Sneerwell . . Nellie Mortimer Sir Oliver .... G. H. Griffiths Joseph Louis James
Crabtree W. Davidge
Rowley D. Whiting
Moses James Lewis
Trip O. S. Fawcett
Snake J. G. Burnett
Careless Geo. Devere
Sir Henry J. G. Peakes
Maria Linda Dietz
Thomas de Walden's drama, " The Baroness," was seen Dec. 10-12 and Dec. 14, with this cast :
414 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1878
Count de Lavenay . . G. H. Griffiths Ralph Yarley .... C. Rockwell
Roland Harry Crisp
Simonet D. Whiting
John Carroll
Baroness . . . Mrs. C. D. Abbott
Genevieve Kate Claxton
Julie Nellie Mortimer
This was the first appearance on any stage of Mrs. C. D. Abbott. On Dec. 16, 19, 20, " Married Life," was presented; Dec. 17, 18, 21, " A Bold Stroke for a Husband." " New Year's Eve, or False Shame," by Frank Marshall, was presented Dec. 23, for the first time in this country, and with this cast :
Frank Percy ... B. T. Ringgold
Phillip Owen S. Fawcett
Magdalen Clara Morris
Constance . . . Fanny Davenport Mary Nellie Mortimer
Earl of Dashington . . . D. Whiting Hon. Chas. Ewart . . John Burnett Mrs. Howard . . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Lord Chilton .... Geo. Clarke Capt. Earnest . . . C. H. Rockwell Col. Howard .... W. Davidge
This comedy was performed on the afternoon of January i, 1873. A few hours later the theatre was in ashes. The wardrobe, scenery, and furniture were all destroyed, as well as many valuable books and papers. It was first discovered to be on fire at five o'clock Wednesday, 4.45 P.M., Jan. I. The fire broke out in the furnaces underneath the box office, in the front of the theatre. The almost simultaneous bursting out of the flames all over the house looked so strange that numbers felt convinced that some malicious persons had set fire to the theatre.
Mr. Daly leased the Worrell Sisters' New York Theatre (Broadway, near Eighth), and opened it as the " Fifth Avenue Theatre," Jan. 21, 1873, with "Alixe."
THE FIFTH AVENUE HALL
THIS theatre was not rebuilt until Dec. 10, 1877, when it was called " The Fifth Avenue Hall." Robert Heller, the magi- cian, took possession of it and closed May 18, 1878. On Nov. 19, several members of the French opera bouffe troupe, gave a concert here. The programme embraced a number of selections, from works of French composers. Zelie Weil, soprano; M. Mialet, baritone; Mile. Cecilia, imitations of singing birds ; a duet by Mile. Weil and M. Doria; and a violin solo by M. Kapp formed a portion of the entertainment.
On Dec. 23 the name of the house was changed to " Minnie CuMMiNGs' Drawing Room Theatre." It was an open hall with a miniature stage. The entertainment was " an operatic lark in two escapades," entitled " Manhattan Beach, or Love Among the Breakers " : Russell G. Glover, Thomas Bartlemann, Julian Francisco, Kate Goodall, Vernona Jarbeau, Mira Lucas.
l88o;]
THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
415
" In and Out of Place " was also given, with Frank Drew as Clod — his first appearance in New York since his European tour — Sol. Smith, Jr., as Etiquette and Minnie Cummings as Letty. Louise Beaudet and Adelaide Cherrie also appeared in the farce " Monsieur Jacques." Frank Drew acted The Irish Emigrant. The house was then closed by an injunction.
THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
STEELE MACKAYE was the next manager of the house, which he called "The Madison Square Theatre," and opened on April 23, 1879 with "Aftermath, or Won at Last," originally pro- duced at Wallack's Theatre in Dec. 1877. The cast here was:
Grace Fleming Mrs. Bunker . Major Bunker Flora Fitzgiggle John Fleming . Dr. Sterling .
. Agnes Loring Gabriel du Sauld . Edward Lamb Genevieve Rogers Steele Mackaye Joseph Frankau
Mrs. Tracy Jane . . . Prof. Tracy Will Tracy . Baron . . Jack . . .
Laura Le Claire Helen Sedgwick C. W. Couldock . Frank Aiken . J. C. Padgett Geo. F. Browne
A benefit was given May 19 to Steele Mackaye. The season closed May 20. This theatre was reopened June 2, by John Saville and Lee with a production of " Pinafore."
This theatre may be said to have taken a new lease of life when Steele Mackaye, backed by the Messrs. Mallory, rebuilt the interior, furnished it sumptuously, and provided it with a double stage. Mackaye gathered an unusually large and competent company. The practically new theatre was opened Feb. 4, 1880, with a slightly altered version of " An Iron Will," entitled " Hazel Kirke," which had this cast :
Dolly Dutton . Dun Stan Kirke Barney O'Flynn Lord Travers . Aaron Rodney Pittacus Green Hazel Kirke .
Gabriel du Sauld C. W. Couldock
Edward Coleman Eben Plympton
Dominick Murray . Thos. WhiHen . Effie Ellsler
Clara Annie Ellsler
Dan Geo. Grey
Lady Travers .... Cecile Rush Mercy .... Mrs. Thos. Whiffen
Met Jos. Frankau
Joe F. Barton
Thomas Henry Jones
Besides those who appeared in the cast of " Hazel Kirke," the regular company included Rose Coghlan, Ada Oilman, Genevieve Stebbins, Josephine Craig, Frank Weston, B. T. Ringgold and Richard Brennan. Daniel Frohman was business manager of the house, and Bernard MoUenhauer, musical director. A series of Easter concerts commenced Thursday afternoon, April i, by mem- bers of the Italian opera company, including Marie Marimon, Anna de Bolocca, Campanini, Galassi, and Emilie Ambre. The second
41 6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisso
concert took place April 8. Emma Thursby, Julia Christin (first appearance in New York), Ch. Fritsch, Sig. Angelo Torriani, Sig. Lencioni, Bernard Mollenhauer, A. H. Pease, and Geo. Colby were the artists.
Edwin Booth made his appearance prior to sailing for Europe, at a matinee June 28, for the benefit of the fund to erect a statue to Edgar Allan Foe in Central Park. Among the volunteers were Clara Morris, Ole Bull, Frank C. Bangs, Bianca Lablanche (Blanche Davenport), the Swedish Ladies' Quartet, Nellie Summers, Harry Edwards, B. Mollenhauer, J. Steele Mackaye, Maud Morgan, Effie Ellsler, Geo. Clarke, Thomas Whiffen and Geo. A. Conly. The pro- gramme consisted of dramatic scenes and recitations, a concert, and " The Taming of the Shrew," which had this cast :
Petruchio Edwin Booth
Gremio T. WhifEen
Pedro Geo. C. Jordan
The Tailor T. F. Brennan
Music Master . . . John Matthews
The Cook . . . Lysander Thompson
Katharina EflSe Ellsler
Baptista J. Daveau
Biondello Murry Woods
Curtis Louisa Eldridge
Clara Morris did the sleep-walking scene from " Macbeth."
" Hazel Kirke " was put on for a run of six weeks, and during the first week of its performance " Masks and Faces" was put in rehearsal. Rose Coghlan was the leading lady of the theatre. " Hazel Kirke" did not seem to make a strong impression. The critics condemned the piece, and the business gradually declined. During the rehearsals of " Masks and Faces " " Hazel Kirke " all at once took a sudden change, and the houses became much larger. By the time " Masks and Faces " was ready for production, " Hazel Kirke " was crowding the theatre. All the country managers came to see the play, but none of them thought it would succeed out of New York. Its suc- cess prevented the appearance of Rose Coghlan, and she drew her ^8,000 that season without doing a night's work for the theatre. The business continued very large, and authors who had contracts for the production of other plays were bought off for an entire year. After two years the cast was almost entirely changed. Charles W. Couldock was sent out on the road with a " Hazel Kirke "company. Steele Mackaye made his debut Nov. 9, as Aaron Rodney, in place of Dominick Murray, on alternate nights, and Georgia Cayvan made her New York d6but, acting Dolly Dutton. At the matinee Nov. 13, Dorah Leigh made her dramatic debut, acting Dolly Dutton. The new cast continued nearly 200 nights more. Effie Elsler, having a slight misunderstanding with the management, withdrew, and Carrie Wyatt played the r61e of Hazel with the travelling company for a few weeks. She was succeeded by Carrie Turner, Bijou Heron, Maud Osborne (Mrs. Gustave Frohman), and Annie Russell. The original Lord Travers in the first production of " Hazel Kirke " was
I88l]
THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
417
Lord Maguay, a real English nobleman, who had been engaged in England. He " acted " the part one night, and was paid to cancel his contract. He was succeeded by Ben Ringgold, and he was suc- ceeded at this theatre by Eben Plympton, who in turn gave way to Gus Levick and Geo. Clarke, who alternated between the parts of Travers and Rodney. Steele Mackaye played at different times Travers, Dunstan, Barney, and Rodney. Later on Henry Miller acted Travers on the road, as did Edwin Arden, Henry Lee, Charles B. Welles, and J. G. Grahame.
On the evening of Feb. 26, 1880, a few moments prior to opening the doors for the performance, the gas man, while lighting up, brought his torch in contact with the drop-curtain, and it was quickly destroyed. The steam ventilating apparatus of the theatre quickly dispelled the smoke, the doors were thrown open, the public admitted, and about twenty minutes later than the usual time the performance commenced. A drop-curtain was extemporized.
The one hundredth performance of this play occurred May i r, 1880, and the three hundredth on Nov. 29. Jean Burnside appeared Dec. 7 as Hazel, and acted during the illness of Jeffreys Lewis. During the spring of i88i trouble occurred between Steele Mackaye and the Mallory Bros. His name was removed from the bills as manager. He applied to the courts to rescind the contract he had made with Marshall H. Mallory, and to restore his property in " Hazel Kirke " : etc. He had agreed to give his services as author, actor, and manager for ;^S,ooo per year, but evidently believed that when he ceased to serve the Messrs. Mallory & Co., he would retain the rights of his own plays. The courts decided otherwise, and " Hazel Kirke " re- mained the property of the Mallorys after Mackaye left the theatre.
The Mallory Brothers never produced anything foreign at this theatre. Neither did they encourage foreign actors to come to them, but found talent among their own countrymen and countrywomen. Dr. Mallory is a clergyman and editor of The Churchman, the organ of the Episcopal Church. Marshall H. Mallory attended to the busi- ness interests of the firm.
This theatre was closed April 15 (Good Friday). " Hazel Kirke" was withdrawn May 31, 188 1, after its four hundred and eighty-sixth consecutive representation. "The Professor," written by W. H. Gil- lette, was produced June i with this cast :
Prof. Hopkins . Mrs. Elliott . Daisy Brown . Henry Marston Estelle . . . Grace Gay . . Thomkins . . Gustavus . . Annie Timms . VOL. ir. — 37
W. H. Gillette
. Nellie Taylor
Georgia Cayvan
Harry Lacy
Nellie Moran
Marie Chester
Leslie Allen
C. W. Butler
Josephine Bailey
Molly Merry . Moses Brown . Susy Sundown Fred Bangs Jack Topley . Dotty Pinney . Minnie Moss . Thomas . . Sheriff . . .
Helen Ottolengui . E. L. Tilton . Belle Melville . D. H. Chase A. Waldron . Belle Jackson . Maude Stuart Chas. Eldridge . Harry Hogan
41 8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1882
On account of the attempted assassination of President James A. Garfield, no performance was given matinee or night of July 2. The one hundredth representation of "The Professor" occurred Sept. 8. The theatre was closed evening of Sept. 20, in consequence of the death of President Garfield, also on Monday night, Sept. 26, the day of the funeral.
"The Professor" had a run of 151 consecutive performances, and was acted for the last time here at the matinee Oct. 29. "Esme- ralda," by Mrs. Burnett, was first acted here Oct. 29. It had already been produced at the Grand Opera House, Newark, N. J. by the company which presented it here. The cast was :
Lydia Ann . . . Kate Denin Wilson Dave Hardy . . . Eben Plympton Jack Desmond . . E. A. McDowell Nora Desmond . . . Agnes Booth Marquis de Montessin
Davenport Bebus
Kate Desmond George Drew . Elbert Rogers Esmeralda Estabrook . .
. May Gallagher
Edwin Knowles
Leslie Allen
. Annie Russell
Thomas WhifFen
Sophie Clara Hyatt
The one hundredth performance of " Esmeralda" took place Feb. 3, 1882; on Feb. 26 John E. Owens appeared in the r61e of Elbert Rogers, and Mrs. Thomas Whiffen in that of Lydia Ann. The one hundred and fiftieth performance occurred March 24 ; the two hun- dredth on May 12, and the two hundred and fiftieth July i. A matinee performance was given on April 3 for the benefit of the Actors' Fund. On July 4 E. J. Buckley, Viola Allen (first appear- ance on any stage), Mrs. Leslie Allen, Fanny Reeves (Mrs. E. A. McDowell), and Louise Dillon appeared in the cast. Viola Allen succeeded Annie Russell as Esmeralda. She made a pronounced success, and was at once engaged for 1882-83. " Esmeralda" was acted for the three hundred and fiftieth and last time Saturday, Oct. 7.
" Young Mrs. Winthrop," by Bronson Howard, had its first per- formance Oct. 9, with this cast :
Douglass Winthrop . . Constance Winthrop . Ruth Winthrop . Mrs. Mrs. Dick Chetwyn . . Buxton Scott . . . .
Geo. Clarke
Carrie Turner
Thos. Whiffen
Agnes Booth
Thos. Whiffen
Dr. Mellbanke . . W. J. Le Moyne Herbert Winthrop . . Henry Miller
Jeanette Delia Stillwell
Edith Maude Stuart
The one hundredth performance took place Jan. 12, 1883. The one hundred and fiftieth March 5. On Feb. 5 Ada Dyas acted Mrs. Dick Chetwyn ; Agnes Booth, Young Mrs. Winthrop (for the first time); E. H. Stephens, Dr. Mellbanke; Jean Clara Walters, Ruth. Edwin Arden and L. F. Massen were also in the cast. " Young Mrs. Winthrop" was played for the last time April 7.
" The Russian Honeymoon," by Mrs. Burton N. Harrison, was produced April 9, and thus cast :
I884I]
THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
419
Alexis Fred Bryton Micheline .... Estelle Clayton
Poleska Agnes Booth KenlikofI Max Freeman
Baroness Ada Dyas Osip Edwin Arden
Ivan W. J. Le Moyne
It had been previously played here by amateurs in December, 1882. A matin6e for the benefit of the Actors' Fund, was given Thursday, April 12. Geo. W. Cable, the novelist, gave readings afternoon of April 23. "The Russian Honeymoon " was acted until June 4, when the theatre closed for the regular season. The fourth summer season commenced June S, with William Young's play, " The Rajah, or Wyncot's Ward," which had this cast :
Harold Wyncot . . . Geo. Clarke
Gladys Rillie Deaves
Joseph Jekyll . . . W. J. Le Moyne
Emilia Jekyll Enid Leslie
Richard Jocelyn . . . Thos. Whiffen
Mrs. Pringle . . Mrs. Thos. Whiffen
Buttons Alfred Klein
Cragin Max Freeman
Job Jekyll J. Frankau
Saturday matindes were omitted during the summer, but Wednes- day matinees were commenced June 13. August 20 H. M. Pitt acted Harold Wyncot ; Carrie Turner, Gladys ; Esther Lyon, Mary ; and J. O. Barrows, Richard. Marion Elmore first appeared Sept. 10, as Emilia.
The one hundredth night was Sept. 1 1. Geo. Clarke reappeared as Harold Oct. 8, Dominick Murray was seen as Cragin, Marie Burroughs as Gladys, and E. M. Holland (first appearance at this theatre) as Job Jekyll.
"The Rajah" reached its one hundred and fiftieth performance Oct. 31. An extra matinee on Nov. 6 (Election Day) was given. The play was withdrawn Dec. 10, when Henry C. De Mille's drama " Delmer's Daughter, or Duty," was produced with this cast :
Esther Enid Leslie
Rhoda Marie Burroughs
Dr. West Geo. Clarke
Paley Thos. WhifEen
Dr. Van Arnem John Delmer . Martha . . . Margaret . .
. Walden Ramsay
. W. J. Le Moyne
Mrs. Thos. Whiffen
. . Fanny Reeves
Proving a failure, it was withdrawn Dec. 17, and " The Rajah " was revived. "The Rajah" was acted for the last time Jan. 29, 1884. The theatre was closed Jan. 30, and Boyesen's play, " Alpine Roses," was seen for the first time Jan. 3 1 and thus cast :
Ilka Georgia Cayvan
Irma Marie Burroughs
Uberta .... Mrs. Thos. Whiffen Count Von Dornfield, Richard Mansfield Countess Von Dornfield
Mme. Liska Von Stamwitz
Herr Von Steinegg . Thos. Whiffen Julius Hahn . . . W. J. Le Moyne
Hansel Geo. Clarke
Wimple W. H. Pope
Roudel Harry Hogan
Mme. Modjeska appeared in "Adrienne Lecouvreur," afternoon of March 6, for the benefit of the Polish school. " Alpine Roses " was
420 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE DSSs
played for the last time Thursday, April lo. The theatre was closed April II (Good Friday). There was no matinee April 12, and in the evening " May Blossom, or Two Loves," by David Belasco had its initial representation, and was thus cast :
May Blossom . . Tom Blossom . . Steve Harland Richard Ashcroft " Uncle " Bartlett Owen Hathaway Capt. Drummond
Yank
Georgia Cayvan Benj. Maginley Jos. Wheelocic Walden Ramsay W. J. Le Moyne . Thos. Whiffen Henry Talbot
Master Tommy Russell
Lulu . . . Deborah . . Hank Bluster Hiram Sloane Eph . . . . Millie . . . Little May
. . . Little Belle Mrs. Thos. Whiffen King Hedley Jos. Frankau . I. N. Long Etta Hawkins Carrie Elbert
The one hundredth performance of " May Blossom " took place July 21, the one hundred and fiftieth Sept. 9, and the last perform- ance Sept. 27. Dion Boucicault gave a lecture on " The Art of Acting " afternoon May 8. Benj. Maginley died at Westchester, N. Y., June 3, 1888, from heart disease.
On September i A. M. Palmer entered into partnership with the Mallory Brothers, and the policy of the theatre was entirely changed. The "Sunday School" drama was abandoned and Mr. Palmer pro- duced on Sept. 29 " The Private Secretary," with this cast :
Mr. Cattermole . . W. J. Le Moyne Douglas .... Herbert Kelcey Rev. Robert Spaulding, Frank Thornton Marsland .... M. A. Kennedy
Harry Walden Ramsay
Gibson Thos. Whiffen
John M. Morton
Knox J. Delamater
Thomas Harry Hogan
Edith Olga Brandon
Eva Daisy Hodgkinson
Miss Ashford . . Mrs. T. Whiffen Mrs. Stead .... Lizzie Duroy
It was a screaming farce, with a low comedy clergyman as the hero. Its success was prodigious and Dr. Mallory offered no protest to it.
Harriet Jay made her debut at a matinee on Nov. 24 as Lady Clancarty in the drama of that name, supported by Charles Glenney, Adeline Stanhope, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Whififen, E. J. Henley, J. W. Pigott, Charles Coote, M. Morton, A. Lindsay, Charles Sea- bert, and Miss Hodgkinson. Edward M. Holland acted Gibson Dec. 22. "The Private Secretary" had its one hundredth perform- ance Jan. 2, 1885.
Frank S. Thornton took a benefit matinee Feb. 12, when "Broken Hearts," by W. S. Gilbert, was produced, with this cast :
Prince Florian Mousta . . , The Lady Hilda
L. F. Massen F. S. Thornton Maud Harrison
Lady Melusine Lady Vavir Lady Amanthis
Marie Greenwald
. Annie Russell
Sarah Ester
" The Private Secretary " was acted for the one hundred and fif- tieth time Feb. 20.
1885J
THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
421
A. M. Palmer assumed exclusive control of the theatre March 13. On the i6th Enid Leslie played Eva; Walden Ramsay, Douglas; Harry Allen, Marsland ; and John H. Browne, Harry. The two hun- dredth and last performance here of " The Private Secretary " took place April 11. " Sealed Instructions," by Mrs. Julia Campbell Ver Planck, was seen, for the first time on any stage, April 13, and had this cast :
Lord Dorchester
Mons Gervais . .
Guy Dunbar . . .
Gerald Dunbar . . Mrs. Houghton
Mathilde
Capt. Lionel . . .
. Fred Robinson
W. J. Le Moyne
Herbert Kelcey
Walden Ramsay
Madison Dennison . . H. M. Pitt
Benton Thos. Whiffen
Servant Harry Hogan
Ada Annie Russell
Katharine .... Jessie Millward
Susanne Lena Langdon
Appleby Fred Ross
This was the debut here of Frederic Robinson.
Shortly aflerwards J. H. Stoddart acted Benton, Maud Harrison Katherine, and Jessie Millward Ada. The play's run closed June 6, after fifty-six consecutive performances.
John T. Raymond began a summer season June 8, with " In Chancery," which had this cast :
|
Montague |
. John T. Raymond |
Mrs. Smith . . |
. . Olga Brandon |
|
Dionysius . . |
. . T. H. Glenney |
Marmaduke . . |
. . Bessie Hunter |
|
Dr. Titus . . |
. Chas. M. Collins |
Patricia . . . |
. . Emily Stowe |
|
Hinxman . . |
C. P. Flockton |
Amelia .... |
. . Katie Wilson |
|
Gawge . . . |
Harry HoUiday |
Walker . . . |
. . Adele Clarke |
|
John . . . |
. . E. H. Sothern |
Kittles .... |
. . Etta Hawkins |
|
Buzzard . . |
Lysander Thompson |
" For Congress " was produced by Mr. Raymond July 6, and his engagement closed July 25. For the first time in its history, this house was closed for one week, commencing July 27, but was re- opened Aug. 3 with " The Willow Copse," C. W. Couldock being the star. The cast was :
Rose Fielding . . Sir Richard Vaughan BUI Staggers . . Arthur Apsley Colonel Vanguard Lucy Vanguard . Lynx ....
. Carrie Turner . A. S. Lipman Samuel Hemple Walden Ramsay John Woodard Kate V. Tousey Sidney Couldock
|
Meg . . . |
Mrs. Charles Walcot |
|
Dick Hulks . |
. . Charles Walcot |
|
Augustus . . |
. . Thomas Whiffen |
|
Lady Apsley . |
. . . Mary Myers |
|
Joe ... . |
. . W. L. Dennison |
|
George . . . |
. . . Charles Carey |
Mme_. Janish was announced to appear in " Anselma " Aug. 31, but was enjoined from producing the same, as it was a version of Sar- dou's " Andrea," otherwise " Agnes," the sole American right of which belonged to Agnes Ethel. The theatre was closed until Sept. 7, when a compromise was made, and " Anselma " was acted for the first time on any stage, and thus cast :
422 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [isse
Count Marcelin . Count de Brionne Dr. Brazilos . Henry Clay Stella . . . Basil . . . Oroide . . . Sidonie . . .
. Henry Miller
. Max Freeman
Leslie Edmunds
G. H. Leonard
Gabriel du Sauld
W. J. Ferguson
John G. McDonald
Jenny Karsner
Joseph . Anselma Lambert Graffit . Kraft . Celine . Pierre .
Genevra Ingersoll . . . Janish M. B. Hoffman H. S. MiUward . . M. Morton . Nettie Abbott . Harry Hogan
" Sealed Instructions " was revived Oct. S, owing to the failure of " Anselma."
There was no matinee performance on Nov. 7, but " Saints and Sinners " was first acted that night, and had this cast :
Captain Eustace Samuel Hoggard Peter Greenacre Jack Raddles . Letty Fletcher Fanny Parridge Jacob Fletcher Ralph Kingsmill
Herbert Kelcey W. J. Le Moyne William Davidge Walden Ramsay Marie Burroughs Marie Greenwald . J. H. Stoddart . L. F. Massen
Lot Burden . .
Prabble . . . Uncle Bamberry
Leeson . . .
Tom Marks . .
Porter . . . .
Lydia . . . . Mrs. Parridge
. . E. M. Holland C. P. Flockton . . Frank Drew Herbert S. MiUward . .- Alfred Becks . . Henry Hogan Mrs. F. J. Phillips . . Lizzie Duroy
A triple performance for the Actors' Fund took place Feb. 4, 1886, under the management of Aug. Daly, and with the co-operation of A. M. Palmer and Lester Wallack. The plan of entertainment, a novel one, was thus arranged : Mr. Wallack's company appeared at two o'clock on that day at Wallack's Theatre in the second act of " The Rivals," at three o'clock they appeared at Daly's Theatre in the fourth act, and at four o'clock they appeared at the Madison Square Theatre in the last act of " The Rivals." Mr. Palmer's com- pany appeared at two o'clock at the Madison Square Theatre in the first act of " Engaged," at three o'clock they appeared at Wallack's Theatre in the second, and at four o'clock at Daly's Theatre in the last act of " Engaged." Mr. Daly's company appeared at Daly's Theatre at two o'clock in the first act of " Love on Crutches," at three o'clock they appeared at the Madison Square Theatre in the second act, and at four o'clock they appeared at Wallack's Theatre in the last act of " Love on Crutches." Mr. Wallack addressed the audience at Daly's, Mr. Palmer at Wallack's, and Mr. Daly at the Madison Square. Reserved seats were $2, and were good for either theatre.
" Saints and Sinners " had its one hundredth performance here Feb. 12, 1886, and was acted for the last time Feb. 22.
" Engaged," was presented Feb. 23, with this cast:
Mr. Symperson Angus Macalister . Major McGillicuddy Belinda Treherne Cheviot Hill . .
W. J. Le Moyne
. L. F. Massen
Frank Drew
. Agnes Booth
Herbert Kelcey
Mrs. Macalister . Mrs. E. J. Phillips Belvawney .... C. P. Flockton
Minnie Maud Harrison
Maggie Annie Russell
Parker .... Marie Greenwald
I886J
THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
423
It was acted until March 30, when " Broken Hearts " and " Old Love Letters " were produced. The cast of " Broken Hearts " was:
Lady Melusine Lady Amanthis Prince Florian
Marie Greenwald . . Lulu Esther . . L. F. Massen
Lady Hilda .... Maud Harrison
Lady Vavir Annie Russell
Mousta W. J. Le Moyne
In " Old Love Letters," Agnes Booth and Herbert Kelcey played Mrs. Brownlee and Warburton. This bill continued until April 19, when " Our Society " was seen for the first time, and with this cast:
Philip Van Pelt . . Herbert Kelcey Ferdinand C. Tapper, Walden Ramsay Reginald Rae . . . W. J. Le Moyne Socrates Browning . E. M. Holland Senator Montgomery, William Davidge Hon. Reuben Gary . . Frank Drew Mrs. Katharine Spencer
Mrs. E. J. Phillips Sylvia Spencer . . Annie Russell
Mrs. Ferdinand C. Tupper
Maud Harrison Miss Constance Grey . May Robson Mrs. Van Pelt . . Virginia Buchanan Mrs. Athburton . . . Lizzie Duroy Mrs. Darlington Browne
Marie Greenwald Mr. Starling ... C. P. Flockton Williams . . . . H. S. Millward
May Robson is the wife of Dr. Brown, medical examiner of the police department of this city.
The season closed May i, and a summer season commenced May 3, R. M. Field, manager of the Boston Museum, having rented the house for the purpose of presenting Richard Mansfield in A. C. Gunter's comedy, acted for the first time, called " Prince Karl." It received this cast :
Karl Von Arhmien, Spartan Spotts Algernon Briggs . Sylvio Salvolio Pippo di Monti Mrs. Daphne Lowell
Richard Mansfield . . Charles Kent . . A. R. Whytal . C. E. Boardman . William Malley
Mrs. J. R. Vincent
Mrs. Florence Lowell, Miss Alicia Lowell . J. Cool Dragon . . Markey Davis . . . Gustavus . . . H.
Maida Craigen , Helen Dayne Wm. Seymour . James Nolan P. Whittemore
Guiseppi G. B. Bates
The one hundredth performance of " Prince Karl " occurred July 20. During the warm weather ladies were served with free ices. On Aug. 2 these changes were made in the cast :
Florence Lowell . Beatrice Cameron Alicia Lowell . . . Emma Sheridan Mayor of Karlshopp . . . Mr. Bell Karl Von Arhmien, Richard Mansfield Daphne Lowell . . . Effie Germon
Cool ' Jos. Frankau
Markey Harry Gwynette
Spotts Cyril Scott
Algernon .... Albert Roberts Gustavus Mr. Malley
" Held by the Enemy," W. H. Gillette's military drama, was first acted here Aug. 16. It had been previously done at the Criterion Theatre, Brooklyn, N. Y., Feb. 22 of the same year. It was thus cast here :
424 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cissy
Maj. Gen. Stamburg, Chas. W. Stokes Col. Charles Prescott . Geo. R. Parks Lieut. Gordon Hayne . J. E. Kellerd Brigade Surgeon Fielding
Melbourne McDowell Asst. Surgeon Hathaway, H. A. Moran Thomas Henry Bean, Chas. S. Dickson Uncle Rufus . . . Harry Woodson
Capt. Woodford . . . D. J. Sullivan Hinton .... Jean H. Williams Euphemia McCreery
Mrs. M. A. Farren Rachel McCreery . . Kathryn Kidder Susan McCreery . . . Louise Dillon
Sentry Hugh Fuller
Clerk W. H. Pope
It terminated its run Oct. 23. '~~
This house was closed for one week commencing Oct. 25, and reopened Nov. i, with" Jim the Penman," by Sir Chas. Young, with this cast:
James Ralston Baron Hartfeld Captain Redwood Lord Drelincourt . Jack Ralston . . Mr. Chapstone Mr. Netherby . .
Frederic Robinson . W. J. Le Moyne . E. M. Holland . Louis F. Massen . Walden Ramsay . C. P. Flockton Harry HoUiday
Dr. Pettywise . Agnes Ralston Lady Dunscombe Louis Percival . George . . . Mrs. Ralston . Mrs. Chapstone
William Davidge
Maud Harrison
Mrs. E. J. Phillips
H. M. Pitt
Herbert Millward
. Agnes Booth
. May Robson
" Jim the Penman " was originally acted at Chicago, 111.
A special performance took place on the afternoon of Nov. 18, for the trial of a dramatization of W. D. Howells' novel, " A Foregone Conclusion," with this cast :
Don Ippolito .... Alex Salvini
Henry Ferris . . . . L. F. Massen
Veneranda .... May Robson
John Billings . . . E. M. Holland
Mrs. Verbrain . Mrs. E. J. Phillips The Cononico ... H. Millward
Florida Marie Burroughs
Nina Marie Greenwald
Sidney WooUett gave six morning poetic recitals as follows : Jan. 3, 1887, Tennyson's " Elaine; " Jan. 10, " Guinevere; " Jan 19, "The Passing of Arthur;" Jan. 24, "Philip Van Artevelde;" Jan. 31, Shakespeare's " King John ; " and Feb. 7, " The Tempest."
The production of Brander Matthews' " Margery's Lovers " was the second in the series of Authors' Matinees, and given for the first time in America Jan. 11, with this cast:
Commodore Brevoort .C. P. Flockton
Lieut. John Alden . . Louis Massen
Mr. Lewis Long . . . E. M. Holland
Wm. Blackwall . . . J. H. Stoddart
Margery Blackwall . Marie Burroughs
Mrs. Webster. . Mrs. E. J. Phillips Bobby Webster . . Walden Ramsay Miss Sara Webster . . Lena Langdon Count de Sarazue ... A. Salvini Sophy Marie Greenwald
Sidney Woollett gave four afternoon recitals on March 10, 17, 24, and 31.
Annie Mayer made her New York debut March 28, as Mrs. Ralston in " Jim the Penman." Agnes Booth and Annie Mayer both falling ill the night of April 4, there was no performance, and the run of " Jim the Penman " was broken.
There was no performance at this theatre, Monday evening, April 18, as the company appeared at the National Theatre, Washington,
1887]
THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
425
D. C, in " Jim the Penman," when the President (Grover Cleveland) and many ofificials were present. The receipts are said to have been ;?3,ioo, and were given to the Actors' Fund. The company reap- peared Tuesday evening. The house was occupied Monday even- ing, by Charles Roberts, who gave a reading of the Indian poem, " Onnalinda," for the benefit of the Masonic Asylum Fund. " Elaine," a dramatization, by George Parsons Lathrop and Harry Edwards, of Tennyson's poem, was acted for the first time on any stage the afternoon of April 28. It had this cast :
King Arthur H. M. Pitt The Dumb Servitor . C. P. Flockton
Sir Torre L. F. Massen The Harper .... H. HoUiday
Lavaine .... Walden Ramsay Queen Marie Burroughs
Gawain ..... Robert Hilliard Elaine Annie Russell
Hermit Friar .... H. Millward Llaynd May Robson
Lord of Astolat . . Harry Edwards Roselle Marie Greenwald
Sir Lancelot .... Alex Salvini
The season terminated April 30, with "Jim the Penman."
" Our Society," was revived May 2, for a month's run. It was an adaptation of " Le Monde ou Ton s'Ennuie," and was cast thus :
Sylvia Annie Russell
Reginald Frank Rodney
Katherine . . . Mrs. E. J. Phillips Mrs. Tupper . . . Maud Harrison
Ferdinand .... Walden Ramsay Mrs. Van Pelt. . Virginia Buchanan
Phillip E. H. Vanderfelt
Constance .... Jennie Eustace
This was the first appearance of E. H. Vanderfelt in this theatre. " Fashion," by Selina Dolaro, was seen for the first time on any stage, afternoon of May 19 with this cast :
Capt. Denalgnez . . Eben Plympton Philip Valnay . . . . J. T. Sullivan Baron Sarcy .... E. J. Henley M. Pierson . . . Harry Edwards
Dora Valnay . . Marion Pierson . . Adelaide Lapierre ) Mathilde Madison \
Annie Robe Belle Archer
Mrs. C Dennison
The season closed May 28, with " Our Society."
Richard Mansfield began an engagement May 30, with " Prince Karl." Clara Fisher Maeder, Johnstone Bennett, Anne O'Neill, Beatrice Cameron, Joseph Frankau, Cyril Scott, John Parry, Harry Gwynette, and Charles Eldridge were in the cast. This was Anne O'Neill's first appearance on any stage. She afterwards became Mrs. Henry C. Miner.
" Monsieur," by Richard Mansfield, was presented for the first time on any stage July 11, and with this cast:
Alice Beatrice Cameron
Mrs. Elizabeth Ann Golden
Josephine Laurens Mrs. Mary Pettygow . Anne O'Neill Mrs. Morton .... Helen Glidden
Sally Johnstone Bennett
Tom Vanderhuysen, John T. Sullivan
Ezra J. Golden . . . D. H. Harkins Morton Saunders . Joseph Frankau
Popples Harry Gwynette
Hon. Charles Mt. Vernon, John Parry Andre Rossini Mario de Jadot
Richard Mansfield
426 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisss
" Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde " was first acted in this city Sept. 12, and its run terminated Oct. i. The original cast of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde was-:
Inspector Newcomen, C. E. Eldridge
Mrs. Lanyon . . Katharine Rogers
John T. Sullivan Rebecca Moor . . Helen Glidden
D. H. Harkins Agnes Carew . . Beatrice Cameron
H. B. Bradley Poole Harry Gwynette
Dr. Jekyll > Mr. Hyde ; • " Gabriel Utterson . Dr. Lanyon . . Sir Danvers Carew
Richard Mansfield
The regular season opened Oct. 3, 1887 with "Jim the Penman," and the original cast. The company was composed of Charles Coghlan, Frederic Robinson, J. H. Stoddart, Alex Salvini, H. M. Pitt, L. F. Massen, E. M. Holland, Walden Ramsay, C. P. Flockton, William Davidge, Herbert Millward, Agnes Booth, Mathilde Madi- son, Maud Harrison, Annie Russell, Marie Burroughs, May Robson, Blanche Curtisse, Minnie Seligman, Marie Greenwald, Mrs. E. J. Phil- lips and Mrs. E. L. Davenport.
" Angela," adapted by Henry Lee and L. Ottomeyer, was seen for the first time on any stage, afternoon of Oct. 18. Harry Lee, Genevieve Lytton, Alex Salvini, and others were in the cast.
Alex Salvini created a sensation by appearing on the stage bare- footed, as befitted his character.
" Jim the Penman " was withdrawn Nov. 10, for " The Martyr," which had this cast :
Alex Salvini . L. F. Massen E. M. Holland Wm. Davidge . J. H. Findlay . Annie Russell Herbert Ayling
" The Martyr " was withdrawn Thursday evening, Dec. 6, and " Elaine " had its first evening production, with this cast :
Due di San Lucca . C. P. Flockton Mme. de la Marche, Mrs.^E. J. Phillips
Gen. Moray H. M. Pitt
Admiral Fred Robinson
Ellis Drake ... J. H. Stoddart Mme. Moray .... Agnes Booth Duchess Mrs. Madison
Anibal . . Robert Bruel Corporal . . Mons. Smith Giacomo Pauline . . Footman
King Arthur . Lancelot . . . Lord of Astolat Sir Lavaine . . Dumb Servitor Queen Guinevere .
. Charles Overton Alexander Salvini Frederic Robinson . Walden Ramsay . C. P. Flockton . Marie Burroughs
Sir Torre Sir Gawain . Hermit Friar Elaine . . Llanyd . . Roselle . .
. Louis Massen
E. M. Holland
Wm. Davidge
. Annie Russell
Minnie Seligman
Marie Greenwald
This was Miss Seligman's first appearance on the professional stage. Jan. 16, 1888, " Heart of Hearts " was first acted, with this cast :
. . Louis Massen Lady Clarissa Fitzralph
Frederic Robinson Mrs. E. J. Phillips
E. M. Holland Miss Wilhelmina Fitzralph
C. P. Flockton Mrs. E. L. Davenport
J. H. Stoddart Lucy Robbins . . . Marie Burroughs
. John Findlay Sibyl Latimer . . . Blanche Curtisse
. W. H. Pope Barton .... Marie Greenwald George S. Stevens
Harold Fitzralph Marcus Latimer Dr. Chettle . . Daniel Robins . James Robins . Murch . . . Jeweller's assistant John
18883
THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
427
Its run ended March 21. This was Blanche Curtisse's first appear- ance here.
Thomas Whiff en reappeared here Feb. 13 as Marcus Latimer.
Henry Irving was tendered a reception by the Goethe Club at this theatre afternoon of March 15. President Parke Godwin introduced Mr. Irving, who delivered an address on the dramatic art in general, and Goethe in particular. Geo. William Curtis made the final speech.
" Partners," by Robert Buchanan, had its initial performance April 2, and with this cast:
Henry Borgfeldt . Alexander Salvini Charles Derwentwater, Walden Ramsay Algernon Bellair . . E. M. Holland Mrs. Harkaway's Husband
Herbert Ayling Dr. Somerville . . . Wm. Davidge
Claire Marie Burroughs
Lady Silverdale . Mrs. E. J. Wiillips Mrs. Harkaway . Mathilde Madison
"A Possible Case" by Sydney Rosenfeld commenced a summer season April 30, and was thus cast :
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Mr. Parr . |
J. H. Stoddart |
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Dickinson . |
C. P. Flockton |
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Boker . . |
. John Findlay |
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Smith . . |
. W. H. Pope |
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Servant . . |
Geo. S. Stevens |
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Alice Bellair |
. May Robson |
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Gretchen |
Gertie Homan |
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Mary . . . |
. Kate Malony |
Otto BrinckerhofiE Lawrence Gould . Violet Mendoza . Mrs. Cyrus Wishton Seiior de Vidas Cyrus .... Ethel Sorrero . . ,
M. A. Kennedy
Frank Burbeck
Genevieve Lytton
Louisa Rial
W. H. Thompson
. Geo. Devere
Daisy Dorr
Juniata Kate Oesterle
Allan Weeks .... Robt. Hilliard Dick Hertel . . . . E. Tannehill
Aurelio Dan Leeson
Boy Ernest Hughes
Gladys Lelia Wolstan
Kitty Carrie Jackson
" A Possible Case " was withdrawn June 4.
A matinee performance of Mrs. Charles A. Doremus' drama, " A Fair Bohemian," took place May 1 1, for the benefit of the Post Gradu- ate Hospital. It had this cast :
Kate Lorain e Mrs. Ironton Guy Lyndon
. Kate Forsyth
Annie Ware
Frank Burbeck
Alice Desmond Mr. Morton Col. Loraine .
. . . Lilla Vane . John T. Sullivan W. H. Thompson
" Fair Fame," by Clinton Stuart, was originally acted afternoon May 24, when Linda Dietz made her American reappearance. It proved to be a version of Alexander Dumas' " Denise." It had this cast:
Lord Elsmere . Hugh Stanton . Capt. Eustace John Preston . Sir Thomas . Lady Clara . .
. E. H. Vanderfelt . Walden Ramsay . . Frank Rodney . J. H. Fitzpatrick Roland Buckstone Mathilde Madison
Lady Dry . . . Virginia Buchanan
Ada Denison Lilla Vane
Mrs. Preston . . Mrs. E. J. PhilHps
Thompson H. Hogan
Margaret Linda Dietz
428 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D888
On June 4, Richard Mansfield began a summer season with " Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde." The cast was :
Dr. Jekyll > Mr. Hyde f
Rich. Mansfield
Dr. Lanyon ... D. H. Harkins General Sir Danvers Careiy
Henry Holland Gabriel Utterson . John T. Sullivan
Inspector Newcomen, Joseph Frankau Rebecca Moore , . Emma Sheridan Agnes Carew . . . Beatrice Cameron
Poole James Barrows
Jarvis Thos. Goodwin
Mrs. Lanyon . . . Helen Glidden
" A Parisian Romance " June 25, with this cast ;
Baron Chevrial . Henri de Targy . Signor Juliana M. Labouniere Madame de Targy Madame de Valraary
Madame De Luce,
Richard Mansfield
John T. Sullivan
Joseph Frankau
W. H. Crorapton
Mrs. Sol Smith
Johnstone Bennett Beverly Sitgreaves
Estelle de Paignac, Adelaide Emerson Dr. Chesnel . . . . D. H. Harkins
M. Tirandel John Parry
Therese .... Emma Sheridan Rosa Gewrin .... Maude White
Maria Helen Glidden
Marcelle . . . Beatrice Cameron
Mr. Mansfield's season terminated June 30.
" The Keepsake," Clinton Stuart's adaptation of " Antoinette Rigaud," was first seen on the American stage July 2. It was thus cast:
General de Prefond . Captain Philippe . . Robert Lambertin . Max Bernardet . . Marcelle de Prefond
F. C. Bangs
E. H. Vanderfelt
Walden Ramsay
Harry Eytinge
. May Woolcott
Madame Bernardet, Mrs. Hart Jackson Jules Leroy .... Frank Weston
Pierre John Findlay
Jacques Harry Hogan
Christine Leroy . . . Effie Ellsler
" Irene " was seen for the first time on any stage afternoon of July 3, cast thus :
S. Miller Kent
Frangois Casine >
Count Henri Casine \
Sergeant of Police, Lawrence Manning
Lady Irene Harcourt, Grace Henderson
Marguerite .... Lillian Chantore
Maurice Chas. Bowser
Dagrion Chas. B. Welles
Dr. Disillai H. M. Pitt
Vesillian Cyril Scott
Balzac Chas. Dade
Pierre Luke Martin
Mestage G. S. Stevens
Manette Evelyn Campbell
Effie Ellsler appeared here July 30, in Frank Harvey's play, "Judge Not," with this cast:
Phillip Vane . . Frank Brightside Rupert Derwent . Little Philip . . Lady Chalmers .
. E. H. Vanderfelt . . Frank Weston . . Fred Corbett Master Vanderfelt Mrs. Hart Jackson
Katherine Clare Lord Ferndale Servant . . . Lady Moreland Ethel . . .
. Efiie Ellsler . F. C. Bangs . Harry Hogan . Mme. Ponisi Helen Bancroft
William Gillette produced his new play " A Legal Wreck," August 14, and the cast was :
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THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
429
Captain Edward Smith, Alfred Hudson
Jonathan Mazey Henry B. Leverett . Richard Merriam Mrs. Perrin Kimball Olive Gray . . .
Sidney Smith . Boyd Putnam . Sidney Drew . . Ida Vernon Nina Boucicault
Edith Kimball . . Francis Graham Nancy Ann Dunks
Fanny Denham Rouse
Ed. Smith Geo. Fawcett
Mary Elsie Lombard
An extra matinee performance was given Oct. 18 of "A Legal Wreck " for the benefit of The Ladies' Jacksonville Relief Society.
"Beauty Abroad," by Clinton Stuart, was acted matinee Nov. i, cast thus :
Lord Ronold Airlie Baron de Beaurain Millicent Beresford Alma Ashley . . Geofirey Lyman . Prince Gloria
Walden Ramsay Paten Gibbs
Nina Boucicault
Isabelle Evesson
Wm. Morris
. Ed. J. Henley
Samuel Cronise Cyrus Budd Lady Beresford Mrs. Cronise . Paola Almagia Mrs. Budd . .
. Cyril Scott
Joseph Wilkes
. Mary Shaw
. Lilla Vane
Linda Dietz
Mrs. Mary Barker
The theatre was closed Nov. 12, 13, and the regular season com- menced Nov. 14, with a revival of " Partners."
" Captain Smith " had its first presentation in America Dec. 4, with this cast :
Mr. Wilding . Mr. Seabrook Harry Seabrook Mr. Gardiner . Stella Darbisher Mabel Seabrook
Maurice Barrymore Frederic Robinson . Henry Woodruff . E. M. Holland . Marie Burroughs . . Annie Russell
Lady Stanton . . Mrs. E. J. Phillips
Marshall J. H. Stoddart
Ryan Walden Ramsay
Bates Reuben Fax
Mrs. Seabrook . . . Agnes Booth
The pupils of the Palmer-Boucicault School of Acting gave their first public performance Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 5, and the enter- tainment consisted of: " Kerry " — Gerald, E. S. Brousse ; Dr. Hel- lish, Jos. McHugh ; Coldham, Francis Livingston ; Mrs. Desmond, Ray Rockman ; Kate, Nannette Comstock ; Kerry, Dion Boucicault. Scene from "King John" — Pandulph, Gordon Emmons; King Philip, Clarence Taylor; Lewis, John Dempsey; Constance, Cora Deane. "Hunted Down" — John Leigh, Walden Ramsay; Mary, Nannie Craddock ; Lady Glencarrig, Kate Lester ; Mrs. Bolton Jones, Viola Whitcomb ; Clara, Cora Deane ; Fanny, Evelyn Malcolm ; Rawdon Scudamore, George St. Mar. " Honor Bright," a comedy by Mrs. Allan Arthur, had its first production on the afternoon of Dec. 21, at an authors' matinee. The cast :
Honor Bright Madeleine Bright Molly Bright Lloyd Stuyvesant
. . . Emily Rigl . . Dorothy Dorr .Johnstone Bennett . . Louis Massen
Mark Field . . George Scott . . Joey B. Bonanza Howell Rivingston
. Henry Miller
Henry Woodruff
George Parkhurst
Walden Ramsay
A matinee performance in aid of the Actors' Fund took place April 5, 1889, arranged through the assistance and co-operation of
43° A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dssg
M. Coquelin, Aug. Daly, Abbey, Schoeffel & Grau, and Mr. Palmer. The programme comprised : M. Coquelin and his company in " Les Pr^cieuses Ridicules," Mr. Daly's company in act three of " The Railroad of Love," M. Coquelin in monologues, and M. Coquelin and Agnes Booth in " The Silent System" (English). This was the last appearance of M. Coquelin.
" Captain Swift " reached its one hundred and fiftieth performance April 27. The season closed May 4, and a summer term began May 6, with " Featherbrain," which had this cast :
Don Stephano Ruy Gomar
Wilton Lackaye Ferdinand Pettigrew . Thos. Burns Valentine Day . . Wm. Faversham Eurydice Mole . Adeline Stanhope Mrs. Pettigrew . . Ethelyn Friend Mrs. Coney (Featherbrain)
Minnie Maddern
Samuel Coney . . . J. O. Barrows
Tipper Augustus Bruno
Cabman Master Chico
Boy Odette Tyler
Nellie Emma Maddern
^m^"} ^"^^^^^^-^
On June i, 2, Emma Maddern was out of the cast in consequence of illness. On June 4, Emma Maddern took the r61e of Mary Ann for the balance of the season. Adeline Stanhope then withdrew from the cast, and May Roberts acted Eurydice Mole. The season closed June 30. " Editha's Burglar " was acted for the first time in this city July i. The cast:
Alice .... Emma V. Sheridan
Fanny Minnie Dupree
Martha Louise Homan
Editha .... Little Gertie Homan
Wm. Lewis . . Maurice Barrymore Edward Bainbridge . . Sidney Drew Paul Benton . . . . J. T. Sullivan John Hamilton . . . Gus Thomas James J. H. Shewell
This was followed Aug. 5, by " Booties' Baby," first time in America, and cast thus :
Capt. Algernon Ferrers (Booties)
Chas. A. Stevenson Capt. Gavor Gilchrist, Wilton Lackaye Lieut. P. Miles . . Augustus Cook Private Philip Saunders, Frederick Kerr Mignon .... Little Gertie Homan Lora Norris . . Nannette Comstock
Humpty Dumpty Helen Grace Capt. Lucy Lieut. Gray Dr. Blantyre Mrs. Smith
. . Alice Leigh
. Kate Claxton
C. W. Garthorne
W. G. Regnier
W. H. Crompton
Blanche Weaver
Augustus Cook retired from the cast Sept. 14, and on Sept. 16 Mr. Joyce assumed the r61e of Lieut. Miles, acted for the last time here Oct. 26.
The theatre was dark Oct. 28 and 29. "Aunt Jack" had its premier in America, Oct. 30; also a new one-act curtain raiser, by Aug. Thomas, called " A Man of the World," was done with " Aunt Jack." The cast of " Aunt Jack " :
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THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
431
Foreman of the Jury . . E. Emmons Mrs. Ephraim B. Van Streak
Eugenie Tabor
Usher Percy Winter
Joseph H. Millward
Joan Bryon .... Agnes Booth Mildred Maud Harrison
Caleb Cornish . . . Edward Bell Mr.Juffin .... Chas. W. Butler
Swoffer H. HoUiday
Associate Justice .... R. Fax S. Berkeley Brue . . E. M. Holland Colonel Taveno . Frederic Robinson Lord St. John Brompton, Louis Massen Mr. Justice Mundle . . J. H. Stoddart
The first of this season's Authors' Matinees was given Dec. 23, when " Helen's Inheritance " was seen for the first time in America. Agnes Booth was absent from the cast of " Aunt Jack " Feb. 17, 1890, and Maud Harrison played her part. Mrs. Booth returned Feb. 18.
On Monday morning, March 3, A. M. Palmer and the company went to Washington, D. C, to give a matinde performance of " Aunt Jack " at Albaugh's Theatre, for the benefit of the Actors' Fund. A special train was furnished by the Pennsylvania Railroad for the excursion. This train was made up of a combination baggage and smoking car, a passenger coach, and a dining car. It left Jersey City at 7.29 o'clock, A. M., with Palmer, his company, and his guests on board, the party numbering sixty-two people all told, no stop being made until Philadelphia was reached, the distance, ninety miles, being covered in ninety-four minutes, which is faster than the former record. The train arrived in Washington at 1 1.47. The total distance of 227 miles had been travelled in four hours and eight minutes. The pre- vious record was five hours and thirteen minutes, and it was made when New York physicians were taken to Washington to attend President Garfield after he was shot by Guiteau. The curtain of the Grand Opera House was rung up promptly at i o'clock. The final curtain was rung down a little before 3 o'clock, and the actors made a lightning change from their stage apparel to their street clothes. The return train started for New York exactly at 3.15 o'clock. Jersey City was reached at 7.33 o'clock. This timing would make the time of the return trip four hours and eighteen minutes, exactly that of the out- ward trip. J. P. McWilliams, another representative of the road, made the time of arrival in Jersey City 7.34 o'clock. This would add another minute to the time. The passengers, however, agree that four hours and eighteen minutes was the actual time. On dis- embarking at Jersey City the actors went directly to the Madison Square Theatre, where they arrived by 8 o'clock, in ample time for the regular evening performance. Maurice Barrymore, whose ser- vices had not been required at Washington, held the stage and the audience, as Captain Bradley in " A Man of the World," until 9 o'clock. After the usual orchestral selection, the curtain went up on schedule time for the first scene of "Aunt Jack." Each member of the cast was greeted with applause on his or her first entrance.
A Delsarte matinee took place on the afternoon of March 26.
432
A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisgo
Mrs. Genevieve Thompson Stebbins and Mary S. Thompson were the features of the entertainment.
The run of " Aunt Jack " and " A Man of the World " closed April 26, having lasted since Oct. 30, 1889. The theatre's regular stock season also closed April 26.
" The Blue Officer " was a drama first acted April 28. It was an English translation or adaptation of " L'Officier Bleu," a drama that had been tried at the Th^Stre de la Renaissance, Brussels, after the Paris officials had interdicted it at the Gymnase. The cast :
Nadia Genevieve Lytton
Countess Delcroff . . Rose Eytinge De Janson .... Wm. Spencer Wourashkine . . . A. L. Rankin
Tobeleff Thomas Joyce
Ivan William Hatter
Prince D'Oblansky . . . Henry Lee Count Henkendorff . Henry Holland Count Jassy . . Clarence Handysides Dr. Periskoff . . George Osborne General Wourapoff . . Evelyn Evans Princess Sistoff . . Donna Madixxa H^lfene, Countess Jassy, Selina Fetter
Richard Mansfield opened his summer season May 5, with " A Parisian Romance."
" Beau Brumraell " was presented May 19. The cast was :
The Prince of Wales . D. H. Harkins Mariana Vincent
Richard Brinsley Sheridan Lady Farthingale,
A. G. Andrews Mrs. St. Aubyn .
Reginald Courtney . . F. W. Lander Kathleen . . .
Beau Brummell . Richard Mansfield A Nurse . . .
Bailiffs A French Lodging
Messrs. B. W. Turner and Norton
Prince's Footman . . Mr. Graham Lord Manly . .
Oliver Vincent . . . J. B. Everham Mortimer . . .
Duchess of Leamington Abrahams . . .
Mrs. Julia Brutone A Lady . . .
. . Agnes Miller
Beverly Sitgreaves
. . Adele Measor
Johnstone Bennett
Constance Neville
House Keeper
Alice Leigh
J. C. Buckstone
W. J. Ferguson
. W. H. Crompton
. . Susie Drake
A matinee performance May 22 was for the benefit of the Babies' Ward of the Post Graduate Hospital. The fiftieth performance of " Beau Brummell " occurred July 7. The theatre was closed Aug. 3, but reopened Aug. 11, when " Beau Brummell" was resumed. The seventy-fifth performance occurred Aug. 12. Nellie Lingard joined the cast Sept. i, replacing Johnstone Bennett. The one hundredth performance occurred Sept. 6, when Robert S. Taber joined the company, taking Frank Lander's place. Helen Glidden, then took Beverly Sitgreaves' position, and Beatrice Cameron assumed the r61e of Miss Vincent, Agnes Miller retiring. Nellie Lingard retired from the cast Sept. 16, and the r81e of Kathleen was assumed once more by Johnstone Bennett. Richard Mansfield gave a performance of " Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," afternoon of Oct. 8. As a curtain raiser, there was a novelty in the first American presentation of R. W. Davey's " Lesbia," with this cast : Lesbia, Beatrice Cameron ; Sybilla, Mrs. Brutone ; Affra, Ethel Sprague (first appearance on any stage) ; Claudia, Edith Day; Catullus, Robert S. Taber. Mr. Mansfield
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THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
433
closed Oct. 25. "Prince Karl" was given by Mansfield, at the matinee Oct. 22. The theatre was closed evenings Oct. 27, 28, and 29. The next season opened Oct. 30, with " A Pair of Spectacles," Sydney Grundy's adaptation of " Les Petits Oiseaux," seen for the first time in America. It had this cast:
Benjamin Goldfinch Gregory Goldfinch Lorimer . . . Mrs. Goldfinch . . Lucy Lorimer . .
. J. H. Stoddart
E. M. Holland
Frederic Robinson
Maud Harrison
Nannie Craddock
Percy Walden Ramsay
Dick Harry Woodrufi
Bartholomew . . . . F. H. Tyler Joyce H. Millward
An amateur theatrical performance took place on the afternoon Nov. 21, for the benefit of the Fresh Air Home. Alice and Rita Lawrence, Gladys Ansel, Robert L. Cutting, Robert Lee Morrell, Palmer Coolidge, Rudolph de Cordova, and Geo. M. Anderson, all well-known amateurs, appeared in the one-act comedietta, "The Nettie," followed by Jerome's play, " Sunset," the entertainment concluding with "A Corsican Legacy," a funny farce, which was made funnier by the introduction of McAllister's " Society As I Have Found It," with an animated discussion as to its fitness for the Corsican Four Hundred. "Afterthoughts" a one-act play by Augustus Thomas, was first presented Nov. 24, preceding "A Pair of Spectacles " in place of " Old Love Letters," which had been the curtain raiser from Nov. 3. The cast of " Afterthoughts " was :
Mrs. " Frank " Fairfield, Agnes Booth I Martha, a maid . . . May Buckley Donald Barclay . . . Louis Massen |
Franz Rummel, the pianist, gave a recital here the afternoons Dec. 2 and 4. " A New Year's Call," a one-act play, was produced on Dec. 29, and ran to Jan. 3, 1891, and had this cast:
Joe Spencer . Harry Hume Nellie Clark .
Harry Woodruff
Walden Ramsay
Nannie Craddock
Mr. Clark .... Charles Harris
Mercury Fred Wilton
Clara Dallas McLean
"A Pair of Spectacles " was played for the last time Jan. 3. No matinee was given New Year's Day. The theatre was closed Jan. 5, for a rehearsal of " The Silver Shield," produced for the first time in this city Jan. 6, when the Rosina Yokes company appeared :
Sir Humphrey Chetwynd, Charles J. Bell Ned Chetwynd . . . Grant Stewart Dodson Dick . Ferdinand Gottschalk Tom Potter . . . Courtenay Thorpe Lucy Preston . . . Emily Bancker
Alma Blake .... Rosina Yokes Rev. Dr. Dozey . . Felix Morris
Mrs. Dozey Miss Wood
Wilson Marion Kilby
Susan Eleanor Lane
A matinee benefit (Jan. 8) was given for the organization known as " The Little Mothers ; " " Esther Sandraz," was seen for the first time in New York, with this cast : VOL. n. — 28
434 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSgi
Henri Vandelle . . Olivier Deschamps Boisgommeux . . Esther Sandraz . .
Arthur Dacre
Edward Bell
Mervyn Dallas
Amy Rosalie
Madame Fourcanade
Mrs. E. J. Phillips
Fourcanade Fred Tyler
Henriette Jennie Eustace
Amy Roselle was the second wife of Arthur Dacre, and this was announced as her American d6but, which was not true, as she ap- peared at Niblo's Garden, this city, on Oct. 23, 1871, in "Our American Cousin." That was her American ddbut. E. A. Sothern was Lord Dundreary. Amy Roselle and her husband Arthur Dacre committed suicide in Sydney, Australia, Nov. 17, 1895. " Esther Sandraz " was first acted in America June 3, 1889, at Chi- cago, 111., by Mrs. Langtry. It was an adaptation of Adolphe Belot's "La Femme de Glace." Rosina Yokes finished her engage- ment Jan. 31. The theatre was closed evening of Feb. 2.
The stock company reopened Feb. 3 in " Sunlight and Shadow," preceded by " Social Fiction." The cast of the first piece was :
Mark Denzil . Dr. Latimer . Janet Felton . George Addis
Maurice Barrymore
Frederic Robinson
. . Jennie Eustace
. . Edward Bell
Mr. Bamfield . . . E. M. Holland
ScoUick F. H. Tyler
Helen Maud Harrison
Maud Agnes Miller
This was Mr. Harris' first appearance at this theatre. Sidney Woollett gave a series of six poetic recitals on Monday afternoons which began Feb. 9.
" The Pharisee " was presented the first time in America Feb. 16, and had this cast :
Geoffrey Landon Lord Helmore . Captain Foster . Graham Maxwell Miss Maxwell .
. . Edward Bell Maurice Barrymore . Charles L. Harris . Harry Woodruff Mrs. E. J. Phillips
Mr. Pettifer . Maud Landon Katy . . . Kate Landon
. . Fred Robinson
. . Agnes Miller
Juliette de Grignan
. . May Brookyn
It was preceded by " Dinner at Eight," for the first time on any stage and cast thus : Ribston Pippin, E. M. Holland, Hodkins, F. H. Tyler; Dorothy Dimple, Maud Harrison. This house was closed Good Friday night, March 27.
" The Pharisee," for the last time, March 31. " Alabama," by Aug. Thomas, was presented for the first time on any stage April i, and had this cast :
Colonel Preston Colonel Moberly Squire TUcker . Captain Davenport, Lathrop Page Raymond Page .
. J. H. Stoddart
. E. M. Holland
Charles L. Harris
Maurice Barrymore
Harry Woodruff
Walden Ramsay
Mrs. Stockton . Adanta Moberly Mr. Armstrong . Decatur . . . Mrs. Page . . Carey Preston .
. Annie Gregory Nannie Craddock . . Edward Bell . . Reuben Fax May Brookyn Agnes Miller
Walden Ramsay went with the company to Chicago, where he played Raymond Page in " Alabama " until the last week of Septem-
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THE MADISON SQUARE THEATRE
435
ber, when he retired from the stage to accept a position in Prof. Kayzer's Chicago conservatory. This gentleman made his first public appearance at the Union Square Theatre. His first success was as Herr Linderin"The Danicheffs," at the Union Square, Feb. 5, 1877. His real name was Walden Pell Roser. He died in New York Oct. 6, 1895. [The company of this house closed evening April 18, and went on tne road. " Alabama " was continued with nearly a new cast on April 20: Col. Preston was~playe3"by C. W. Couldock; Col. Mobefly by Burr Mcintosh; Capt. Davenport by E. J. Henley; Lathrop Page by Foster Piatt ; Decatur by Geo. Ober, and Atlanta by Marion Russell. Ht was the first American play Mr. Palmer had produced in several years, fit was a simple little story, quietly and naturally told, provoking a tear now and then in a pleasantly sym- pathetic wa^
Albert Morris Bagby, pianist, assisted by Herr Friedheim, ap- peared afternoon of April 21. On the afternoon of April 24 a Del- sarte performance was given, when Genevieve Stebbins, Mary Thompson, and Mildred Ewer were seen. " A Delsarte Letter to a Child " was presented. Afternoon of April 27, a performance was given for the benefit of the New York Kindergarten association. " In Honor Bound," with Mrs. Charles A. Doremus, Josephine Mack, Rose Dalrymple (first appearance), Courtenay Thorpe, and Miss Mack in the cast. "Mistress Dorothy," for first time, with Eugene Ormond in a leading part. "Sunset" closed the entertain- ment.
" The Merchant," by Martha Morton, originally produced at the Union Square Theatre afternoon of June 26, 1890, and which was awarded the prize of ^1,000, by The New York World as the best American play by an American author, was produced on May 4 :
Fred Dupree ... E. J. Henley Mr. Price .... Daniel Jarrett Mr. Gresham . . . Alfred Becks
Mr. Roberts J. P. Clarke
Prof. Higgins ... R. F. Cotton Carroll Cotton Vanderstyle
Henry Miller Lord Dudley Northwicke, C. S. Dickson
Will Robbins . . Myrtle Vanderstyle Miss Van Osten, Helen Marchmont . Mr. Edwards . .
Seymour G. Hess
. . Viola Allen
Virginia Buchanan
Henrietta Lander
N. C. Forrester
Tubbs Frank Drew
The Chef W. H. Pope
Jess Morgan .... Mary Hampton
A benefit performance was given afternoon of May 19 for the Washington Arch fund, when was acted" "A Game of Cards," Jerome's "Fennel," scenes from "The Rivals" and a drawing room entertainment by Richard Mansfield. In " A Ganje of Cards " Alice Cleather, Evert Jansen Wendell, of the Amateur comedy club; Ferdinand Gottschalk, of Rosina Yokes' company, and Grenville James appeared. Joseph Jefferson, W. J.Florence, Mrs. John Drew, Viola Allen, Frederick Paulding, Geo. Denham, Joseph Warren, and Nelly Lingard appeared in scenes from " The Rivals."
436 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsgi
" The Lousianian " had its first hearing on the afternoon June 4, and with this cast :
Gen. St. Armand . N. C. Forrester Louis St. Armand . . E. J. Henley Alphonse Dumondville, Frank Lander Capt. Howard . Wright Huntington Marquis de Gazon . . R. F. Cotton Mrs. Claiborne . . Virginia Buchanan Ruth Claiborne . . . Mary Hampton Marquise de Gazon
Mrs. Henry VandenhofF
" Meadowbrook Farm " was produced on the afternoon of June 8, for the first time on any stage. It was thus cast :
Coratesse Marguerite Delluc
Henrietta Lander Gov. Claiborne .... J. F. Brian Lieut. Lee .... Chas. Halleck
Gerot Daniel Jarrett
James Chas. Drake
Surgeon J. P. Clarke
Jean Seymour G. Hess
John Stevenson . . Arthur Ransome Don Pedro Cordova James Mason . . J. Pickering Pick .
. . Luke Martin
Chas. D. Herman
. . Ed. Mack
. Harry Leighton
Robert Benedict
Betsy Stevenson, . Mrs. Annie Sutton Tabez Peabody . . . . H. D. Byers Mr. Osgood .... W. L. Payne
Marjorie Leha Woolston
Rose Evelyn Pollock
Mr. Kershaw William . . Claude . . Pixton . . .
. . . M. C. Daly
. . R. F. Cotton
Master Louis Haines
. E. Snitz Edwards
The season closed June 27. A summer term commenced Aug. 3 with " Jane," given for the first time in America, and cast thus :
Chas. Shakleton . . . Paul Arthur Lucy Norton . . . Katherine Grey Mrs. Chadwick . Jennie Weathersby Mrs. Pixton . . Amelia Summerville Jane Johnstone Bennett
The house passed out of Mr. Palmer's hands and it became known as " Hoyt's Madison Square Theatre " when Hoyt and Thomas secured the lease, Sept. 15, 1891.
"Jane" continued the attraction under the new regime. Jennie Weathersby withdrew from the cast early in September, and Louise Sylvester assumed the r61e of Mrs. Chadwick. Elaine Ellison suc- ceeded Katherine Grey in the r61e of Lucy Norton. " The Better Part" was played Oct. 16, preceding "Jane" with Paul Arthur as Tom Rayner, Herbert Fortier as Arthur Wright, and Fanny Ellison as Mildred. " A Trip to Chinatown " was first seen at this theatre Nov. 9, and had this cast :
Welland Strong Ben Gay . . Tony Gay Rashleigh Gay Willie Grow . Normon Blood Noah Heap .
. . Harry Conor
Geo. A. Beane, Jr.
. . Lillian Barr
Lloyd Wilson
Blanche Arkwright
. . Arthur Pacie
Harry Gilfoil
Hoffman Price . . Frank E. Morse Slavin Payne . . . Harry Gilfoil Isabella Dame . Geraldine McCann
Cora Fay Maggie Daly
May Wing Lucy Daly
Flirt OUie Archmere
Mrs. Guyer Anna Boyd
Ollie Archmere retired Dec. 15, and "Flirt" was acted by Lucy Daly. Lilhan Barr was seen as Tony Gay Dec. 16-17-18-19. Patrice commenced as Flirt Dec. 21. Lillian Barr retired Dec. 22 and
isga: HOYT'S MADISON SQUARE THEATRE 437
Eleanor Beebe appeared Dec. 23. Eileen Coghlan, sister of Rose Coghlan, was seen Dec. 14 as Isabella, for one night only. Jennie O'Neil Potter appeared afternoons of Dec. 28, 30, 31 in a monologue entertainment. " His Toast" was acted for the first time on any stage afternoon of Jan. 15, 1892, by amateurs. In the cast were Rita Lawrence, Laura Sedgwick Collins, Robert L. Cutting, Jr., and James K. Hackett. This was followed by " The Electric Spark " with Rita Lawrence, Alice Lawrence, and Robert L. Cutting, Jr., in the cast. " The Dead Shot " closed the entertainment. Loie Fuller appeared here in her serpentine dance Feb. 29.
On the afternoon of April 8, the programme was : " The Deacon," by Henry Arthur Jones, with this cast : Abraham Boothroyd, W. T. Wood; Tom Dempster, Eugene Ormonde; Tibbitts, W. A. Pease, Jr. ; Rosa Jervoise, May Middleton ; Mrs. Bolinbroke, AHce Law- rence. " Jean Marie," from the French of Andre Theuriet, rendered into English verse by Alice Lawrence, was also acted : Jean-Marie, Nelson Wheatcroft ; Joel, Gustav Frankel ; Therese, Rita Lawrence. A monologue by Rudolph de Cordova was heard ; also " The Electric Spark," from the French by Bolton Rowe, with Robert L. Cutting, Jr., as Captain Crichton, Rita Lawrence as Mary Durant, and Alice Lawrence as Mrs. Templeton. This was the first time in America of " The Deacon." Three of the plays sent by contestants in the New York Herald competition, and selected by Messrs. Pratt and Ogden, were presented at a trial matinee April 20. They had these casts :
" That Cowboy," by Mary Adelaide Keeler :
Paul Par- Venue . Claude H. Brooke Mrs. Paul Par- Venue . Mrs. A. Ober Paul Par- Venue, Jr. L. W. Woodworth Gladys Par-Venue, Grace Huntington
Reginald Gaston . . Henry J. Bagge Man-afraid-of-a-sneeze, . W. Baker Tom Thorpe . . . Robert Edeson
" The Charms of Music," by Alex. H. Laidlaw, Jr. :
Walter Thorne . . Henry J. Bagge Violet Thorne . . Grace Huntington Eva Thorne .... Lillian Leach Richard Douglas . . Robert Edeson
" A Modest Model," by Ida Carpenter :
John W. Baker
Hamilton Hirsute Hamilton
^ Claude H. Brooke
Fred Leland . . . Robert Edeson Drumbold . . . Claude H. Brooke Colville . . . . L. W. Woodworth Percival W. Baker
Mrs. Harriet Storey . . Mrs. A. Ober
Servant Mr. A. Doubla
Josephine Beauchamp
Grace Huntington
On the afternoon of April 27 three more were given, with these casts :
"An American M.D.," by J. Mont Pleyer, M.D.
438 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D893
Dr. Green Myron Calice
Count Adolph d'Houtinet
Claude H. Brooke Baron von Waldersee, Henry J. Bagge
James . . ^ . Mrs. Dolly Green Beatrice Green Emily Vincent
Willis Baker
Lillie Alliston
Lillian Leach
Marie Stuart
"Roses and Thorns," by Geo. Moore.
Uncle Ephram Robert Dare . Captain Newton
Claude H. Brooke . Henry J. Bagge . . Myron Calice
Burton Willis Baker
Marie Dare . . . Elizabeth Garth
' A Mere Pretence," by W. J. Berry.
Henry Lay ton . . Mrs. Henry Layton Mrs. Bella Belle .
Robert Edeson Elizabeth Garth . Lillie Alliston
Frizzles Annie CliiFord
Servant A. Doubla
" As You Like It " was produced on the afternoon of May 26, with this cast :
Orlando Otis Skinner
Jaques .... Charles B. Hanford
Oliver F. L. Sylvester
Duke Frederick . Wadsworth Harris Banished Duke . . Robert Benedict
Adam Howard Kyle
Touchstone .... Tom E. Webber
Le Beau James Fiske
Corin WilHam Evans
Sylvius TuUy Marshall
William Edward Mackay
Amiens John Savage
Jaques de Bois . . Frank Andrews
Celia Annie Lockhart
Audrey Eleanor Merron
Phebe Lulu Carpenter
Rosalind .... Alberta Gallatin
Bessie Clayton, a child dancer, appeared in " A Trip to China- town " June 27. Loie Fuller closed her engagement here June 25. Patrice retired July 25, and Queenie Vassar appeared as Flirt, while Lillian Swaine acted Willie Grow. "The Chan- cellor's Wife" was acted on the afternoon of Nov. 11. It was originally played at the Boston Museum April 18, 1892. The cast here was: Ted Horton, William Morris; Jack Medbury, Orrin Johnson ; Theo. Travers, Cyril Scott ; Ben Dixon, James 0. Barrows; Adam Cherry, W. H. Crompton; Nelly Horton, Sidney Armstrong; Mrs. Ben Dixon, Odette Tyler; Mrs. Weedles, Kate Denin Wilson. The McCoy Sisters, nine and ten years of age, danced here May 15 in "A Trip to Chinatown," for one week. The six hundred and fiftieth and final performance of this farce took place Aug. 17. This was the longest consecutive number of performances of any play in America. The theatre was closed on Tuesday night, Jan. 24, 1893, the day of the funeral of Mrs. Charles Hoyt (Flora Walsh), who died January 22.
"The New South" was first acted at this theatre Aug. 14:
Capt. Harry Ford . Joseph Grismer Georgia Gwynne
Phoebe Davies (Mrs. Grismer) Gen. Houston Gwynne, Scott Cooper Jefierson Gwynne . . Holbrook Blinn Kate Fessenden . . . Eve Acklom Bessie Fessenden . . Bebe Vining
Dr. Tom Lincoln . . Charles Mackaye Mrs. Abigail Newport
Ella Hugh "Wood Paul Fitzhugh . . . Frank Lander
Sampson Geo. Fawcett
Sol Ben Cotton
1894: HOYT'S MADISON SQUARE THEATRE 439
" A Temperance Town, " by Charles Hoyt, was first acted in this city Sept. 18, and had this cast:
Ernest Hardman . Launcelot Jones . St. Julien Jonesl, . John Worth . . Squire Belcher . Kneeland Pray Frank Hardman . Fred Oakhurst Dr. Caldwell Sawyer, Uncle Joe Viall . William Putnam . Was Perry .
Richard J. Dillon George Richards Eugene Canfield . W. H. Currie Wm, CuUington Joseph Frankau . Frank Russell . E. F. Nagle Frank A. Lyon . George Ober . . F. Russell
Herman A. Sheldon
Judge Graham Doe . . George Ober One of the Grossman children
Mabel Earle Learned Sprigg . Herman A. Sheldon
Sheriff Madison Corey
Tinker Hull .... Chas. Adams Will Peake . . Harry Luckstone
Ruth Caroline Miskel
Patience Hardman . . Laura Ayers
Roxana Dallas Tyler
Arabella Lulu Tabor
Mary Jane Jones . . . Marie Uart
It was withdrawn on Jan. 8, 1 894, after one hundred and twenty- five consecutive performances. Charles Thomas, of the firm of Hoyt and Thomas, died at Tucson, Arizona, Nov. 17, 1893, of consump- tion, aged thirty-three years. Early in December Frank McKee became the partner of Mr. Hoyt. " A Texas Steer " was seen for the first time in this theatre Jan. 8, 1894, and had this cast:
Maverick Brander . . Tim Murphy Capt. Fairleigh Bright, John Marshall
Major Yell Mat Snyder
Col. Bragg James Horan
Col. Blow C. L. Warren
Brassy Gall . . . Newton Chisnell Col. K. N. Pepper . . James Horan Christopher Columbus, Jr.
Will H. Bray Knott Innitt . . . Sumner Clarke Othello Moore . . John T. Craven Lieut. Green . . . Sumner Clarke
Sergeant-at-Arms . . John Deady G. Whittaker Bellows
Robert Mclntyre Green Woodhead . George A. Grace Lowe Dodge . . . Chas. Bradford
Crab Edw. Corbin
Mink Geo. Jennings
Sam, row boy .... Olney Griffin Mrs. Brander . . Mrs. Rose Snyder Mrs. Major Campbell, Gertrude Perry Dixie Style .... Stella Kenny Bossy Alice Evans
On Jan. 11, 1894, Hoyt & McKee took a lease of the theatre for nine years from October i, 1894. Heretofore Mr. Hoyt had leased this theatre from A. M. Palmer, who in turn had it from the Messrs. Mallory, who held the original lease from the owners of the property. An amateur performance was given on the after- noon of Jan. 23, by Amy Lionel's company of dramatic students, when an adaptation of a French three-act farce, " Les Petits Godines" was presented under the title of "A Full Hand." "A Trip to Chinatown" was revived Feb. 12, with Mark Smith as Rashleigh Gay. Eunice Vance was seen as Flirt, and Papinta did " The Myriad Dance " on March 5. The seven hundredth per- formance occurred March 26. The house was closed March 3 1 and also the week of April 2, but it was reopened April 9 with " The Rival Candidates, " seen for the first time on any stage, and with this cast :
440 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSgs
John Douglas . . Richard Bashforth Vandebrugh Ogden Franz Vogel . Tom Dausoner .
Joseph Wheelock
Francis Carlyle
Henry Chanfrau
Geo. R. Edeson
John H. Browne
Tim Tipton . . . Janet Kendren . . Kitty Kendren . . Florence . . . . Mrs. Philetus Glegg,
. Louis Haines
Victory Bateman
Lottie Alter
Lillian Lawrence
Mary E. Barker
The theatre was closed May y-8 and reopened May 9 with " The Check Book," which was thus cast:
Lord Augustus Whiffle, Joseph Holland Colonel Simcox . . Augustus Cooke Tom Pringle . . . .CD. Marius Silas Vedder . . . Robert Fischer Saunders Grant Stewart
Commissionaire Servant . . . Mrs. Simcox . Ada Vedder . Mrs. Pringle .
. Edwin James William Kinney Isabelle Evesson . Effie Shannon . Rose Coghlan
" Forget Me Not " was played May 14, 15, 16 ; " Peg Woffington " ("Masks and Faces"), May 17, 18, 19, with Rose Coghlan as Peg, Joseph Holland as Sir Charles Pomander, Thomas Whiffen as Trip- let, Charles Bell as Ernest Vane, and Harry Courtaine as Snarl. The same bill was repeated for the week of May 21, with John T. Sullivan as Ernest Vane. Minnie Seligman appeared here May 28 in "Lady Gladys," for the first time on any stage. The season closed June 9. Many alterations were made in the theatre during the summer, and it was reopened Oct. 8.
The first attraction offered at this house, now called "HoYT's Theatre," for the regular season, was "A Milk White Flag," by Chas. Hoyt, seen for the first time in this city. The cast was:
The Colonel . . . Charles Stanley
The Major Lloyd Wilson
Surgeon Ed. Garvie
Dancing Master . . . Frank Lawton
y . . Lillian Markham Vivandieres ^ . . C. Rosa France
) . . Etta Williamson
Lieutenant . . Standard Bearer
The General .
Advocate . .
Piggott Luce . Lize Dugro
Aurora Luce .
John S. Marble
Clara Flagg
Frank J. Keenan
. Arthur Pacie
. R. A. Roberts
. Lillie Deaves
Isabella Coe
This play had its first production at Wilkesbarre, Pa., Dec. 23, 1893.
Percy Gaunt, musical director, retired Dec. 12, and Alex. Haigh took his place as leader, Dec. 17. Percy Gaunt, who had composed many successful songs, died Sept. 5, 1896. The one hundred and fiftieth performance of "A Milk White Flag" occurred Feb. 21, 189s, and the play was withdrawn after Feb. 23.
"The Foundling," by W. Lestocq and E. M. Robson was seen Feb. 25, for the first time in this city, and had this cast:
Major E. M. Robson
Dick Pennell ... S. Miller Kent Timothy Hucklebridge,
Jos. Humphreys Sir Nicholas Pennell . John J. Burke Jack Stanton . . . Charles Welles Alice Meynall .... Ida Conquest
Sophie Cotton . . . Georgia Busby Mrs. Cotton .... Helen Tracy Miss Ussher . . Maggie Holloway Tottie, with song . . Jane Stetson The Tricky Little Maybud,
Cissy Fitzgerald
1895]
HOYT'S THEATRE
441
It was preceded by A. C. Lancaster's play "Lethe": Lethe, Annie Russell; Mrs. Adelaide Van Vary, Madeline Bouton; and Edgar Atheling, C. J. Richman. "Lethe" was taken off after March 3 and " Keeping Up Appearances " took its place March 4, and was withdrawn for "Romeo's First Love" March 8. This little play was first acted at the Empire Theatre on the afternoon of Feb. 28. "The Man Up Stairs," by Augustus Thomas, was produced April 9, and had this cast: Ruggles, Charles Welles; Frisbee, Ferdinand Gottschalk; Mrs. Ruggles, Odette Tyler; Mrs. Frisbee, Georgia Busby; Mary Nolan, Maggie Fielding. The season closed May 25, but the house was reopened June 3 with the American debut of Janet Achurch, in "Forget Me Not," thus cast: Sir Horace Welby, William Harcourt; Prince Malleotti, Wallace Shaw; Mrs. Foley, Jennie Weathersby; and Stephanie de Mohrivart, Janet Achurch. "In the Season," a one-act play by Langdon Mitchell, was also seen, with Miss Achurch in the leading part. This bill was continued until June 6, when Ibsen's "A Doll's House" was given, with this cast:
Torwald Helmer . Wm. Harcourt Nils Krogstad .... Albert Gran Dr. Rank .... Wallace Shaw
Porter Hal Clarendon
Mrs. Linden . . . Eleanor Merron Anna Jennie Weathersby
Ellen Maude Carlisle
Emmy Ruby Bell
Bob Jack Gilroy
Einar Bonnie Delucie
Nora Janet Achurch
The house was closed June 8 and reopened Aug. 19, 1895, with Edward Owings Towne's play "Other People's Money," originally called "By Wits Outwitted," which was thus cast:
Oliver Starbird . Aubrey Boucicault Marcenas Clump . Thomas M. Hunter Josephus .... Gustave Yorke
Painter Alonzo Stevens
Tilka Van Sittart . Lillian Burkhart
Millicent Hopper . . . Helen Tracy Marjory Denton Stillwell Hopper
Georgie Welles Hutchinson Hopper . Charles Dickson
Robert Hilliard was the next attraction, and appeared Sept. 2 in " Lost, Twenty-four Hours, " by W. A. Tremayne and Logan Fuller, which had this cast:
Dick Swift . . . David Swift . . Adolphus Smiley . Solomon Goldstein Mrs. Bertha Dacre
Robert Hilliard
. Grant Stewart
Cecil Butler
. Harry Rogers
Madeline Bouton
Mildred Maud White
Mrs. Churchill . . Sydney Cowell Mary Churchill . . . Ethel Vallerie Susan Daisy Dixon
" The Littlest Girl " a curtain-raiser in one act was given the same night with Grant Stewart as Mr. Caruthers, Stuart Johnson as Davenport, Lillian Burkhart as The Littlest Girl and Robert Hilliard as Van Bibber.
"The Gay Parisians," by George Feydeau and Maurice Disval-
442 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE ZiBgs
Here, was seen Sept. 23, for the first time in this city, and cast thus:
Joseph Pinglet . . W. J. Ferguson Angelique . . . Mrs. E. J. Phillips Paillard .... Charles Welles
Marcella Odette Tyler
Mathieu James Barrows
Hyacinthe . . . Margaret Gordon
Violet Clara Norton
Daisy Vergie Graves
Rose Winona Shannon
"A Black Sheep," by Chas. Hoyt, was produced Jan. 6, 1896, for the first time in this city, and cast thus :
|
Maxima . . . |
. . W. R. Shirley . . Tully Marshall |
|
Boulot . . . |
|
|
Bastien . . . |
. . George Backus |
|
Earnest . . |
Frank A. Connor |
|
Botticelli . |
. . Vaughan Glaser |
|
Brochard |
. . Louis Hendricks |
|
Victorine . . |
. . Josephine Hall |
|
Miss Connell . |
. . MoUie Sherwood |
Hot Stuff . . . Percy Vere . . Goodfellow Gunning Jarvis Field Jack Aspen . . Slater . . . Under Dog . . M. T. Sells . Count Smorltork Phil Glass . . Wetherbee Fowle Buffers Ryder . Old Subscriber
Otis Harlan
. Jos. Frankau
. Wm. Devere
Harry Luckstone
. . Jos. Natus
Wm. F. Mack
. Steve Maley
. Wm. Hatter
Snitz Edwards
John W. Mitchell
Chas. Bradford
John Gilroy
Chas. Diehl
Hyde Sinn . . . Jimmy Work . . John L. Fitz James Willcut Luce . . Miss Lida Skiddons Ada Steele . . . Daisy Singer . . Etta Mellon . . May Wing . . . Cora Fay . . . Nattie Stile . . Nora Marks . . Premiere Danseuse
, Herman Sheldon
Henry Sanger
Wm. F. Mack
John W. Mitchell
. . . Ada Dare
Agnes Rose Lane
Agnes Paul
, . Hattie Wells
, . Etta Gilroy
. . Nellie Buder
. Rose Sutherland
Frankie Bailey
Bessie Clayton
The season closed May 9, but the house was reopened Wednes- day, Sept. 2, with "The Liar," a play adapted by Clyde Fitch from the French:
Gustave Bravot . . Fritz Williams Geo. Manet . . W. H. Fitzgerald Louis Guerinot . . . Giles Shine Mons. Pasturel . . . Samuel Reed
Mulot Oscar Figman
Canard L. C. Massen
Philippe Francis Neilson
Elaine Rousseau . Katherine Florence Mme. Rousseau . . . Annie Clark Mme. Caroline Guerinot
Isabel Urquhart Rosalie Ina Hammer
This was preceded by two scenes from "The Long Strike," with J. H. Stoddart in his familiar part of Moneypenny.
The house was closed Sept. 13 and 14, and reopened Sept. 15 with "Sue," a Western drama by Bret Harte and T. Edgar Pemberton, which received this cast :
Ira Beasley Silas Prescott . Parson Davies Jim Wynd . . John Scott . .
Joseph Haworth . Horace Lewis . Louis Massen . Guy Standing Theo. Roberts
Jeff Bragg .... William Bonelli
Judge Lynch Sam Reed
Annie Olber .... Anita Rothe
Sue Annie Russell
No. 22 ... . Chas. H. Bradshaw
"A Florida Enchantment," by Archibald Clavering Gunter, was produced Oct. 12, and cast thus:
1897]
HOYT'S THEATRE
443
Lillian Cruger Travers . Marie Jansen f Frederick Cassadene
Jane Dan Collyer Clarence Heritage
Miss Oglethorpe . . . Efiie Germon Major Calhoun Benham Horton Bessie Horton .... May Haines W. Melville
Stella Lovejoy . Grace Huntington Charley Wilkes . . Albert Roberts Malvina Carrie Collyer
" My Friend from India " was transferred from the Bijou Theatre to this house Nov. 30, and was followed Jan. 4, 1897, by "A Con- tented Woman," written by Chas. Hoyt, acted for the first time in New York, and with this cast :
Benton Holme Cutting Hintz . . Aunt Jim . . . Uncle Tody . . Helen A. Wrangle Mrs. Watson Chinn Mrs. Ebbsmith .
William H. Currie Frank Lane . . Amy Ames . George Ober . Rose Snyder . Adelaide Ober . Grace Thorne
Rose Budd . . Phil Boyles . . Boyle Dowie . Vandyke Beard Mary Peete Grace Holme,
Frank J. Keenan
Gus Hennessy
. Will H. Bray
. Elenore Falk
. Emma Lewis
Caroline Miskel-Hoyt
"My Friend from India" was revived Feb. 22, 1897. "A Black Sheep " was seen again April 5 for one week. The theatre was closed the week of April 12 and reopened April 19 with "The Man from Mexico," by the author of "My Friend from India." It had this cast: Benjamin Fitzhugh, Willie Collier; Roderick Majors, M. A. Kennedy; William Loveall, Theo. Babcock; Clementina Fitzhugh, Louise Allen ; Sallie Grace, Nita Allen ; Nettie Majors, Lulu Taber; Miranda, Margaret Gordon. The season closed June 5. The house reopened Sept. 6, 1897, with "A Bachelor's Honeymoon," by John Stapleton, which had this cast:
Benjamin Bachelor
Minerva
Amaryllis
Charyllis
Phyllis .
Marianne
M. A. Kennedy Isabel Waldron
Louise Galloway Helen Douglas
. Clara Hunter Eleonora Allen
Joe Jacques Martin
Percy .... Morgan E. Coman Stephen Howston . W. J. Ferguson Dr. Ludwig Schwartz, Albert Bruning Anthony Gumbug . . Max Figman Miss Arbuckle . . Berenice Wheeler
This was followed Oct. 4 by "The Proper Caper," from " Le Paradis" of Hennequin and Bilhaud, cast thus:
Casimir Beaujolais Immortelle Mignonne . . Paul Tricot . Elise . . . Heloise Vefour Robert Delangeville
Thomas Burns . . Kate Meek . May E. Wood Henry Bergman Blanche Burton Alice Fisher . Frank Doane
Achille Richard Bennett
Prof. Ziegenlieber . Charles Stanley Arpad Vilagos . . Robert F. Cotton
Ninette Amelia Bingham
Homraard .... Douglas Lloyd
Natalie Marion Berg
Minna Myra C. Brooks
"A Stranger in New York," by Chas. H. Hoyt, was transferred from the Garrick Theatre in this city to this house Nov. 8. The new association called "The Criterion Independent Theatre" gave its first presentation on the afternoon of Nov. 18. They
444 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1898
appeared in "John Gabriel Borkman," by Henrik Ibsen, which had this cast:
John Gabriel Borkman . E. J. Henley Mrs. Gunhild Borkman, Maude Banks Erhart Borkman . . . John Blair Ella Rentheim . . Ann Warrington
Fanny Wilton Wilhelm Foldal Frida Foldal .
Carrie Keeler Albert Bruning Dorothy Usner
The second performance of the " Criterion Independent Theatre " was given on the afternoon of Jan. 7, 1898. Three one-act plays were presented, namely: "The Rights of the Soul," an English adaptation of a "problem" drama, by Guiseppe Giacosa; "That Overcoat," by Augustus Thomas; and "From a Clear Sky," by Henri Dumay. The various characters in the three plays were acted by Elita Proctor Otis, Carrie Keeler, Kate Denin-Wilson, Dorothy Usner, E. J. Henley, and A. S. Lipman. "The Gov- ernors," a musical farce, was produced by Ward and Yokes on Jan. 3, 1898. Robert Hilliard appeared here Jan. 17 in "A New Yorker," previously called "Lost, Twenty-four Hours." The first matinee performance by the students of the Stanhope- Wheatcroft dramatic school took place on the afternoon of Jan. 20. Three one-act plays were presented, namely : " Renunciation," by Frances Aymar Mathews; "The Cup of Betrothal," by Charles Bradley; and "Higher Education," by Frances A. Hoadley.
" Oh, Susannah ! " by Mark Ambient, A. Atwood, and R. Vann was seen here Feb. 7, with this cast :
Flora Maud Harrison
Ruby May Wood
Pearl Blanche Burton
Mrs. O'Hara . . . Maggie Fielding Aurora Josephine Hall
John Shephard . . . Fritz Williams
Mr. Plant Robert Cotton
Andrew Merry . . . Frank Doane Hon. Waverly Vane, Alfred Hickman
Tupper Jessie Busley
Susannah Shephard . Marion Lester
The students of the Stanhope-Wheatcroft school gave a matinee performance Feb. 24, when four one-act plays were offered, namely : "The Sword of Remembrance," by Alice J. Grant; "A Bachelor's Wife;" "Jerry Burke, the Moonshiner ; " and "The Missing Mrs. Petti John." " Dangerfield, '95" was a curtain-raiser by Mildred DowHng, author, presented Feb. 28, with Annie Russell as Aunt Jane. The season closed April 2, but the house was reopened Sept. 7 with "A Brace of Partridges," by Robert Ganthony, given for the first time in America, and with this cast :
Lord Wallerton . Charles V. France Col. Rackett . . Gordon Thompson Hon. Arthur Partridge } H. Reeves- Alfred Partridge i Smith
Stubbs G. F. Leicester
Spiffins George Shelton
Snap Cecil Thornbury
Tom Ruston Fred Dark
James E. Ford
Lady Wallerton . . . Mabel Lane Evangeline Van Bock . Sybil Carlisle Peggy Stubbs . . Jessie Bateman
1899]
HOYT'S THEATRE
445
All of these players made their American debuts except H. Reeves-Smith, who came to America with the Hanlon Brothers. On Oct. 6 a curtain-raiser by A. C. Fraserwood called "Good- bye," was done in addition to "A Brace of Partridges." "On and Off," by Alex. Bisson was seen for the first time Oct. 17, and had this cast :
George Godfray . . . E. M. Holland Alfred Godfray . . . Fritz Williams
Bnimaire Samuel Reed
Du Patty de Clam . Byron Douglas
Martel James Kearney
Randolphe Reuben Fax
Madeline Godfray . Amelia Bingham
Madame Brumaire,
Maggie HoUoway Fisher Madame Martel . . . Anita Rothe Rosa Martel . . Katherine Florence
Lisette May Lambert
Julie May Gallyer
Alice Augusta Glose
Ralph Delmore appeared here Dec. 26 as Du Patty de Clam. "Because She Loved Him So," adapted from Bisson and Leclercq's "Jalouse" by Wm. Gillette, was produced Jan. 16, 1899, with this cast:
Oliver West .... Edwin Arden John Weatherby . . . J. E. Dodson Thomas Weatherby . . Arnold Daly Edward Marsh . . William B. Smith Rev. Lyman Langley . TuUy Marshall Albert Pritchard . . W. J. Constantine Jackson .... Charles Eldridge Breslin Roy Fairchild
Gertrude West . . . Ida Conquest Mrs. John Weatherby . . Kate Meek Donna Adelina Gonzales
Leonora Braham Margaret .... Maggie Fielding
Susan Margaret Mayo
Julie Langley . . . Edythe Skerrett Mrs. Jackson . . Frances Comstock
Annie Irish appeared May i as Gertrude West. The season closed May 20. The theatre reopened Saturday, Sept. 2, with "Why Smith Left Home," given for the first time in this city, and cast thus:
John Smith Gen. Billetdoux
Count von Guggenheim
Maclyn Arbuckle Fred. W. Peters
Major Duncombe Mrs. John Smith .
George Barnum . M. B. Snyder . Marion Giroux
Miss Smith Mrs. Billetdoux Rose Walton . Julia .... Elsie . . . Lavinia Daly .
Mrs. E. A. Eberle . . Rose Snyder Gertrude Roosevelt Dorothy Usner . Blanche Carlisle . Annie Yeamans
Dan Mason was seen Oct. 9 as Count von Guggenheim. " The Girl in the Barracks," lately at the Garrick Theatre, came Nov. 6 for one week:
Paul Roland .... Joseph Coyne
Aurelie Beatrice Bonner
Le Bardy Louis Mann
Claire Helen Harrington
Gaston Thornton Cole
Liane Tourbillion . . Clara Lipman Colonel Ravelin . . Geo. W. Barnum Blanche Vivian Edsall
Lieutenant Serignay Sergeant Dubois Corporal Benoit Charlotte Gendarme Milly . . Fifi . . A Sentry
Leighton Leigh Bert Flansburgh . Ben T. Dillon . Mary E. Post Bert Flansburgh Amy Lesser Mabel Frenyear Claude Yerkes
446 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cigoo
On Nov. 13 "Make Way for the Ladies," by Maurice Henne- quin and Albin Vallabreque, was presented, with this cast :
Rende Esther Tittell
Andr^e May Lambert
Mme. Pompon . . . May Robson
Adhle Nellie Butler
Malvina .... Louise Douglas
Analie May Gallyer
Victorie Anita Rothe
Camilla Marie Derickson
Mme. Penard . . Mildred Bowdrow Mile, de Marigny . . . Marie Harris
On. Dec. 11, for the first time in America, was seen "Wheels Within Wheels," by R. C. Carton, which was thus cast:
|
Mile. Berot . |
. . . Etta Morris |
|
Pompon . . . Girard . . . |
. . . E. M. Holland . . . Fritz Williams |
|
Gibaulet . . Beaulois . . Bouquet . . . Jean .... |
. . . . Eric Hope . . . .Jay Wilson . . . . Sam Reed . . Frederick Hayes |
|
Francois . . Gendarme . . |
. . Tony Eddinger . . . . Theo. Earl |
Lord Eric Chantrell . John B. Mason Sir Philip Curtoys . . Grant Stewart Edgerton Vartrey, Philip Cunningham
Eaves Edward Lester
Byam Charles Giblyn
Waiter C. W. Butler
Mrs. Onslaw Bulmer . Hilda Spong Lady Curtoys .... Grace EUiston Miss Curtoys .... Eva Vincent James Blagden . . Robert Hilliard
Feb. 12, 1900, "Coralie and Co., Dressmakers," by Albin Vala- breque and Maurice Hennequin, was presented, with this cast :
Henri Lavelle . Lucienne . . Stephen Coralie Coralie . . . Double Blanc . Joseph Pinglet
. Fritz Williams
. Esther Tittell
E. M. Holland
Marie Derickson
May Gallyer
. . Sam Reed
Clemence Nellie Butler
Laura . . Maggie HoUoway Fisher Andre Pilliard . . Brandon Hurst Ernest Thorel . George W. Howard
Poulet Jay Wilson
Boulet James Kearney
For the matinee Feb. 15, the pupils of the Stanhope- Wheatcroft Dramatic School appeared in "A House of Cards," by W. G. Van T. Sutphen; "Racine," by Dodson L. Mitchell, and "A Jolly Mix Up," adapted from the French by Mrs. Akerstrom Bernard. "Twelve Months Later," a translation from the German comedy, "Als Ich Wiederkam," by Blumenthal and Kadelburg, was pre- sented for the first time in English at this house on May 26. Its original production in New York occurred at the Irving Place Theatre, on Feb. 7, 1900. Proving a failure the "White Horse Tavern " was revived for one week April 9, with' Chas. H. Brad- shaw as Giesecke. The season closed April 28, and the next sea- son began Sept. 8 with "lb and Little Christina," a "picture in three panels," by Basil Hood. First Period: lb. Master Lores Grunn; Ib's father, Percy Lyndel; Old Heinrik, James Kearney; Christina, Violet Holliday; Ib's mother, Jennie Eustace. Second Period: lb, Holbrook Blinn; Old Heinrik, James Kearney; John, Jay Wilson; Christina, May Lambert; Ib's mother, Jennie Eustace. Third Period: lb. Holbrook Blinn; Ib's mother, Jennie Eustace; Little Christina, Violet Holliday. "The Husbands of Leontine,"
18663
THE THEATRE FRANCAIS
447
a comedy in three acts, by Alfred Capus, was produced the same night, and had this cast :
The Baron .... E. M. Holland Adolphe Dubois . . .Fritz Williams
Plantin Eugene Jepson
Leontine Isabel Irving
Oct. 8, " Self and Lady " by Pierre Decourcelle, was seen for the first time and thus cast:
The Marquise .... Ida Vernon Virginie . . Maggie HoUoway Fisher Hortense .... Marie Derickson Ernestine Anita Rothe
Paquita May Robson
Toinette .... Marie Derickson
Angela May Lambert
Sephora Nellie Butler
Madeline May Gallyer
Doctor Duplantin . E. M. Holland
M. Furet Fritz Williams
Messenger . . . Tony R. Eddinger Josephine Furet . . . Isabel Irving Colombe Duplantin
Maggie HoUoway Fisher
"Hodge, Podge & Co.," a musical comedy in three acts, adapted from the German by George V. Hobart, with music by John W. Bratton, and lyrics by Walter Ford, was produced Oct. 23, with this cast:
Rudolph Roastemsum, Peter F. Dailey Hiram Hodge . . . Geo. W. Barnum
Philip Podge Don Antonio . . Christopher . . I. Hyde .... Ledger d'Main A. Poze .... Capt. Kaufketchum Wm. Plantes . . Priscilla Hodge . Evangeline Hodge
Stephen Maley Wm. Broderick Robt. S. Pigott . Edw. Garvie Edw. Wonn Lawrence Sheehan . Wm. Strong Chas. Winters Christie McDonald . . Amy Lesser
Carmenita Hodge
Marquita
Minnie .
Mabelina
Laurelina
Gracelina
Estellelina
Rosalina
Claralina
Sarah
Lucy . .
Jennie Hawley
Mamie Forbes
Georgie Lawrence
Frankie Bailey
Lea Amrose
. Mae Edwards
Frances Wilson
May Blanchard
Martha Steyne
. Mary E. Post
Winnie Kramer
"The House that Jack Built," by George H. Broadhurst, was pre- sented Dec. 24, introducing Thos. A. Wise, John Findlay, Fred W. Peters, Alexis Law Gissiko, Mrs. Annie Yeamans, Jennie Yea- mans, and others. The house was closed the night of Jan. 7, but reopened Jan. 8, 1901, with "My Lady Dainty," by Madelaine Lucette Ryley, with Herbert Kelcey, Richard Dillon, Guy Bates Post, William Boag, Effie Shannon, Winona Shannon, and Mrs. Isabel Waldron in the cast. Feb. 11 "On the Quiet," by Augus- tus Thomas, was seen for the first time, with William Collier as the star, and Helena Collier, John Saville, Louise Allen, and others in the cast. The season closed June 26.
THE THEATRE FRANCAIS
THE house now known as the " Fourteenth Street Theatre" was originally called "The Theatre Fran^ais," and was erected on ground formerly occupied by the Palace Garden, other-
448 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisee
wise known as the Cremorne Garden. The parquet contained three hundred seats, and the dress circle had three rows of private boxes, separated from each other by high partitions. There were eight proscenium boxes. The stage was seventy-five feet in length and thirty in width, illuminated by sunken footlights.
The opening took place May 26, 1866, with "Nos Allies," and the opera bouffe "Les Rendezvous Bourgeois." M. Guignet and C. Drivet were the managers. M. and Mme. Larmet, Mmes. Bergeon, Potel, Hinry, and Delinge, and MM. Henry Fonteney, Charmonin, and Choi were in the company. Julius Eichberg's opera, "The Doctor of Alcantara," was sung May 28. Caroline Richings, Sophie Mozart, Zelda Harrison, William Castle, Ed- ward Seguin, Henry Peakes, Wiley, George Ketchum, Bartlett, and Danks were in the cast. This opera received twelve repre- sentations. On Tuesday and Saturday nights French comedy was presented. M. Fleury, basso, and Mme. Fleury, soprano, made their debut June 12, in " Le Vileneau " and " The Rose of Castile ; " June 22, " The Daughter of the Regiment ; " June 29, " A Night in Rome." The season of French opera closed June 26, and the English company closed July 3, with " The Two Cadis " and "The Doctor of Alcantara."
Paul Juignet died at San Francisco Feb. 8, 1889, aged fifty- seven years.
Jacob Grau next leased this house and opened it Aug. 25, 1866, under the direction of Henry Draper, with Italian opera. F. C. Burnand's burlesque of " Ixion " had been given on the previous evening, and at a matinee on the opening day. "II Barbiere " was the initial opera, with Leonilda Boschetti, Sig. Tomaso, Orlandini, Nicolai, Barin, F. Rosa (conductor), Carl Formes, Massimiliani, Signora de Rossa, and Freda de Gebele in the company. Anna Lacoste acted "Deborah" Aug. 30 and Sept. i, supported by W. H. Wilder, J. J. Prior, W. S. Higgins, G. C. Turner, C. T. Parsloe, Jr., C. Newton, S. E. Bloomingdale, R. L. Simpson, Mrs. H. Mills, and Mrs. Thos. Hind. "Martha" was sung Sept. 3; "II Trovatore,"Sept. 7, 8, 10, 12; "The Doctor of Alcantara," Sept. 13, with Fanny Stockton as Inez; Mina Geary as Isabella; and E. Duchesne as the Doctor.
Adelaide Ristori made her American ddbut Sept. 20, under the direction of Jacob Grau in "Medea," with the following support: Antoinetta Zammerini, Adele Giaumartini, Maria Malagoli, Mari- ette Bergonzoni, Maria Greppi, Luigia Glech, Virginia Casati, Annetti Buti, Graziosa Glech, Rosina Fontana, Giovanni Carboni, Giacomo Glech, Achille Cottini, Ludovoco Mamini, Giulio Buti, Giovanni Maria Borghi, Antonio Malagoli, Napoleone Mazzodolfi, Carlo Buti, Pietro Ferrari, Paolo Vega, Cesare Ristori, Francesca Lisara, Giovanni Tesero, Frederico Verzura, Luigi Trojani, Andrea
1867] THE THEATRE FRANCAIS 449
Balfani, Asdrubale Corsi, and Achille Gilbert!. She closed her engagement Sept. 27, having acted "Medea" twice; " Mary Stuart, " five times; "Elizabeth," six times; "Judith," twice; "Phaedra," three times, and Lady Macbeth, three times.
The Italian Opera company sang " Rigoletto, " Sept. 27-29, with Emily Boughton as Gilda. Oct. 9 a French comic opera company appeared, under the direction of Juignet and D. Drivet. " Les Mousquetaires de la Reine " was sung, and it introduced M. Anthelme, tenor (his first appearance in America), as Oliver Entragues; M. De Surmont, tenor, as Hector De Biron, and M. Jean Vert, basso, as Capt. Rowland ; Mile. Elvira Naddie as Athenias, and Mile. Jeanne Laurentes as Bertha. In the French dramatic company were MM. Scribot, Lucien, Feuilet, Albert, Edgard, Chandora, Francis, and Maret; Madame Rosa Saunier, Mme. Daire, and Miles. Dembrun, Camel, Thorey, and Alphon- sine. M. Wilhem, baritone, made his first appearance Oct. 1 1 in "Le MaJtre de Chappelle." "The Crown Diamonds "was heard Oct. 16, with MM. Choi and Walter in the cast.
"Le Toreador," by Adolph Adam, was presented Oct. 18; "Le Chalet," Oct. 23. Mile. Boucousiglio made her d6but Nov. 8 in " Le Cald ; " Nov. 10, M. and Mme. Deligue, and Mile. Solange were seen in "The Romance of a Poor Young Man."
Adelaide Ristori reappeared Nov. 12, and played on alternate nights with the French troupe. During her two weeks' engage- ment she acted " Adrienne Lecouvreur," twice; "Pia di Tolamei," once; "Elizabeth," twice; "Mary Stuart," twice; and "Medea," once. For her benefit, Nov. 23, Ristori appeared in the sleep- walking scene from "Macbeth," and as Medea; and during the evening a poem by Henry Tuckerman was presented to her.
" Zampa " was produced by the French company Nov. 22. Olive Logan acted in French " Cinq Cents Francs de Recompense." In consequence of some difficulty Juignet & Drivet withdrew from the management, but the company continued until Jan. 8, 1867. A sea- son of Italian opera commenced Feb. 11, under the direction of Antonio L. Morra. Signora Guidetta Atieri was the prima donna. Signors Barili, Fortuna, Adelaide Phillips and Elvira Naddie were in the company. " La Traviata " and " II Trovatore " were sung dur- ing a season of four performances. Mme. Larmet appeared Feb. 12, in French. The Pot-Philo dramatic association gave a performance April 17, for the benefit of the Ladies' Southern Relief Association.
Mrs. Barney Williams acted in French April 23, for Mme. Larmet's benefit. She appeared in " Le Mari Dans Du Coton." Ristori reappeared May 2. " Mary Stuart " was played three times, " Eliza- beth " five times, Victor Hugo's " Angelo the Tyrant," in which Ristori played Thisbe of Padua, once (May 6), " Macbeth " once, and " Medea " once. VOL. II. — ?g
45 o A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dse?
On May 15 a performance took place for the benefit of the Italian schools, after which a banquet was given to Ristori, when she was presented with a gold medal. A benefit was given May 16, to the Southern Relief Association. Ristori closed May 17, with " Medea," and at the end of the performance she was made the recipient of an Italian flag. On the following day she sailed for England, her sojourn in America having been one grand series of successes, out of which Jacob Grau made a fortune. The receipts on her closing night reached {83,000.
Bothroyd Fairclough appeared here May 20, in " Hamlet," followed by " Richelieu " and " Othello." He was supported by Ida Vernon, J. Newton Gotthold, and others. W. F. Leggett was seen June 17, in " Richard III.," followed by " Romeo and Juliet " and the " Merchant of Venice." Mr. Leggett bore a remarkable resemblance to Edwin Booth, but only in appearance, as his acting was atrocious. The Beni Zoug-Zoug Arabs occupied the house for a fortnight commenc- ing June 24. Farces were also given, in which Mr. and Mrs. Gomersal, Mrs. Mark Smith and Mrs. T. J. Hind appeared. C. F. Law made his d6but on the stage July 26, as Charles De Moor in " The Robbers," supported by O. B. Collins, W. H. Spencer, W. J. Ferguson, Mrs. Harry Ryner, and others.
Mrs. F. W. Lander (Jean Davenport) appeared Aug. 19, under the management of T. B. Pugh, in an English version of Giacometti's play " Elizabeth," which had this cast :
Lady Sarah Howard . . Jennie Gourlay Margaret Lamburn . . Ada Monck Earl of Essex . . . . J. H. Taylor
James VI W. J. Cogswell
Lord Howard C. J. FyfiEe
Lord Hudson ... N. W. Decker
Sir Francis Bacon Lord Burleigh . . Sir Francis Drake Marquis Mendoza Keeper of the Seal Queen Elizabeth . Lady Burleigh
. . Geo. Becks . Edwin Varrey . A. W. Fenno C. H. Rockwell . W. D. Shiels Mrs. F. W. Lander Minnie Monck
Her engagement terminated matinee Sept. 14. This lady has had an eventful life. She was married at San Francisco, Cal., on Oct. 13, i860, to Col. Frederick W. Lander, soon after which she retired from the stage. He was killed in battle in the Federal army in November, 1862, and soon afterwards Mrs. Lander went to the battlefield and became chief matron in the hospital at Port Royal, S. C. There she organized a corps of nurses, and day and night she visited the wounded, sick, and dying, bestowing cheery words on some, or de- cently composing the limbs of a dead hero ere the earth closed over him. She remained there a year, and then returned to her home in Massachusetts. After a brief retirement she returned to public life at Niblo's Garden, this city, Feb. 6, 1865, in her own translated play, " Mesalliance." Her four years' retirement from the stage had made little, if any, change either in her appearance or manner of acting. She first appeared on the London (Eng.) stage Dec. 18,
I867II
THE THEATRE FRANCAIS
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1869, as Queen Elizabeth, at the Lyceum Theatre. Her last appear- ance on any stage was Jan. i, 1877, at the Boston Theatre, in a dramatization by herself of " The Scarlet Letter." This lady ranked among the most accomplished of the tragic actresses of her day. She was the original (in America) Camille (John Wilkin's version) pro- duced by her at the Walnut Street Theatre, Philadelphia, and the original in America of Peg Wofifington, Adrienne Lecouvreur, Char- lotte Corday, Mary Stuart, Maid of Marendorff, Medea, Parthenia, the Czarina, the Countess (in " Love ") Joan of Arc, Marie Antoi- nette and Elizabeth (in English). The chief charm of her acting was its finish of detail, and it was seen to best advantage in " Czarina," " Medea," and " Queen Elizabeth." She achieved her early reputa- tion in original parts; she earned her latest fame in rivalry of Ristori. Long before that great actress appeared in America, when she was the pet of the Parisian critics, and was playing " Medea " after its refusal by Rachel, Mrs. Lander acted the part here. As an actress Mrs. Lander had no peer ; as a woman, her life has been characterized by purity, gentleness and humanity . Her voice was sweetly modulated and she touched the heart, gratified the intellect, pleased the eye, and left a charming impression, through her sim- pUcity of style, agreeability of manners, and unaffected elocution.
Adelaide Ristori returned here Sept. 18, and played her usual repertory until Oct. 7, when " Marie Antoinette " was played for the first time in this city. Her engagement continued until Oct. 19, during which time she acted " Medea " once, " Francesca da Rimini," its first production in America, once, " Mary Stuart " once, " Elizabeth " four times, " Myrrha," for the first time in New York, twice, and " Marie Antoinette " eight times. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, were Ristori nights.
H. L. Bateman, with a French opera bouffe troupe, opened Oct. 24, 1867, with " La Grande Duchesse." Tostee was the prima donna, and the opera had this cast :
La Grande Duchese . . Lucille Tostee Officer M. Chopin
Wanda .... Mile. De Felcourt Charlotte Mile. Susanne
Olga Mile. Mathilde Fritz M. Guffroy
Amelia Mile. Monier General Bourn . . . . M. Duchesne
Iza Mile. De Bongars Prince Paul M. Leduc
Baron Grog M. Valter Baron Puck . . . . M. LagrifEoul
Nepomuc M. Monier
This was its first performance in this city in its entirety. " La Grande Duchesse " was played on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Satur- days, and at matinees on Wednesdays during Ristori's season. When Tostee chose to be indisposed — a weakness which the lady frequently indulged in — her place was taken by Mile. De Felcourt, save in December, when Mile. Fleury Longchamps took her place for a few nights. Up to Dec. 25, when the first opera bouffe
452 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dses
season closed " La Grande Duchesse" had been played sixty-four times.
M. Leduc was a very great actor. Joseph Jefferson said that he was more like Charles Burke than any comedian he had ever seen. He was the perfection of grace, and through all the gentle drollery of his seemingly unconscious action there ran a vein of reticent, wistful sensibility, which, without being sadness itself, produced upon others the momentary effect of sadness.
At the close of Ristori's season H. L. Bateman introduced, on the alternate nights of opera bouffe, a French dramatic company, who appeared Oct. 22, headed by M. La Roche and Mile. Deborah. So great was the success of opera bouffe that the evenings were changed on Oct. 21 to Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, with a Saturday matinee, and the dramatic company ap- peared Tuesdays and Saturdays. The opening performance was " The Romance of a Poor Young Man," with Mile. Deborah as Mar- guerite and M. La Roche as Maxime. "Le Caprice " and "Les Amours de Cleopatre " were played Oct. 29, the latter introducing Mile. Reillez, a comedienne of unquestionable greatness, who sang, imitated birds and beasts, and generally exhibited great versatility and dramatic talent. On Nov. 2 " La Dame aux Camelias " was played, with M. La Roche as Armand and Mile. Deborah as Camilla. The farewell performances were given the week ending Dec. 28, and the company went to Boston. Throughout their engagement no opera but " La Grande Duchesse " was produced.
Ristori returned Dec. 30, and gave ten representations of " Marie Antoinette," two of " Elizabeth " and one of " Norma " during three weeks, the nights being Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and the matinees on Saturdays. Belle Boyd made her d6but in this city Jan. 9, 1868, as Juliana in "The Honeymoon" and in " Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady." Bateman's opera bouffe company appeared Feb. 24, in " La Grande Duchesse," with Mile. Tost^e as the Du- chesse. This company played each evening during the week, except Saturday, when the dramatic company reappeared. "La Grande Duchesse " was continued up to March 25, when it was withdrawn, having enjoyed 156 consecutive performances. "La Belle Helene" was given for the first time in America, March 26.
Agamemnon . . . . M. Duchesne
Slave M. Perrigeur
Hdlfena Lucille Tostde
Orestes .... Mile. De Felcourt
Bacchis Mile. Juliana
Lasna Mile. Marguerite
Parthenis .... Mile. Mathilde
Paris M. Guffroy
Menelaus M. Leduc
Calchas M. Lagriffoul
Achilles M. Valter
Ajax I M. Benedick
Ajax 11 M. Monier
Philocomus M. Hamilton
Enthycles M. Fleury
It was repeated on every evening except Saturday, up to a matinee on Saturday, May 2, Mile. Fleury Longchamps taking the place of
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Tostee. The French dramatic company May 4 and week of May 6 (except May 9) in " Sor Teresa," " Oscar " and " Riche d' Amour," May 9.
The Caroline Richings- English opera company May 11, for two weeks, during which they sang " Martha " twice ; " Maritana " once ; "La Somnambula" once; "The Crown Diamonds" once; " Fra Diavolo " once ; " The Doctor of Alcantara " twice ; " Faust " once ; and " The Bohemian Girl " twice. In the latter, Edith Abel made a debut as Arline May 13. Ristori dramatic company reappeared May 21, and acted eleven times.
Alhaizi and Calabresi, from New Orleans, with a French opera bouffe company, appeared June 4 in " Orphee aux Enfers," with this cast:
Eurydice .... Mile. Lambelle Orphde M. Deere
Diana Mile. Tholer Aristde M. Gougon
Cupid Mile. Esai Jupiter M. Edgard
Venus Mile. Cadic Public Opinion . . . . M. Tholer
This opera was presented until June 12. The season closed June 13, with "La Grande Duchesse."
A benefit for the American dramatic fund took place June 23, when Mme. Ristori and others appeared. Mme. Ristori, aided by children, gave a private entertainment June 24, for the benefit of an unfortunate lady of this city. Ristori made her farewell appear- ance as Elizabeth at a matinee on June 26. On the following day she sailed for Europe.
The theatre closed June 27, 1868, and reopened Oct. 5. Jacob Grau was the lessee and manager, and the company was : Rose Bell, Fontanel, Victoria Maurice, Rose Taillifer, Adrienne Ligny, Elsie Goueretti, MM. Julien Carrier, Beckers, Bourgoin, Goby, Genot, Mussay and Bataille. The initial performance was " La Grande Duchesse," with Rose Bell as the Duchesse, Mile. Fontanel as Wanda , Carrier as Fritz, Beckers as Bourn, Goby as Prince Paul, Genot as Puck, Bourgoin as Grog, and Mussay as Nepomuc. After the third night Mile. Goueretti took the place of Mile. Fontanel.
" La Grande Duchesse " was sung until Oct. 16, when the theatre was closed for a rehearsal of " Genevieve de Brabant," produced for the first time in America Oct. 22, and for eleven consecutive weeks attracted crowded audiences. Mile. Desclauzas became as great a favorite as Rose Bell. As the eccentric gendarme Pitou, M. Gabel made a great hit. Desclauzas appeared as Drogan Jan. 7, 1869, in consequence of the illness of Rose Bell, Mile. Rezarelli playing Genevieve. " L'OEil Creve," by Hervd, had its first American representation Jan. 9. Goueretti was the Dindonette, owing to the illness of Rose Bell. " Fleur de Th6 " was sung for the first time in this country Feb. i. Rose Bell was announced to take the part of Cesarine, but sickness prevented her. On the opening night the
454 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE E1869
curtain did not rise until nine o'clock, and then the part was taken at short notice by Desclauzas. Mile. Bell appeared as Cesarine on Feb. 13. After a run of two weeks " Fleur de The " alternated with " Genevieve de Brabant " the latter having its one hundredth repre- sentation on Feb. 22. Mile. Rose Bell had a benefit Feb. 26, presenting " Genevieve," and the second act of " William Tell " in French. Carrier had a benefit on March S, offering an act of " L'CEil Creve," the gendarme scene from " Genevieve," the third act of "Fleur de Th6," " Mons. Choufleury," and a ballet. After March 6, the house was closed until March 29, when Mr. Grau had a benefit, tendered him by the stockholders of the theatre, when was produced for the first time in America, Offenbach's " La Vie Parisienne."
M. Juignet, the stage manager, took a benefit April 7, when was given the first act of " La Grande Duchesse " with the following notable and remarkable cast: Fritz, Mile. Rose Bell; La Grande Duchesse, M. Carrier; Wanda, M. Deligne; Gen. Boum, Mile. Desclauzas; Prince Paul, Mile. Maurice; Baron Puck, Mile. Clementine, and Nepomuc, Mile. Goueretti. The comedietta, " Livre HI, Chapitre I," was also played, and " Cargouillada," a burlesque on Italian opera, was sung by MM. Carrier and Beckers and Mile. Goueretti, and a chansonnette by M. Bourgoin. The season closed with a benefit to M. Beckers on April 13, "La Vie Parisienne" and songs by Dora Harris comprising the bill.
When Tost^e first came to this country she was about forty years of age. She was a better actress than a singer. Her salary was ;SSi,ooo per month in gold, for a season of eight months. She was most popular behind the curtain. She grudged applause to no one, and never tried to monopolize the stage.
Irma (maiden name, Irma Marie) was the wife of M. Colonne, the leader. She is the sister of Mme. Galli-Marie and Paola-Marie. Their father's name is Marie-Delisle. Her salary in America was $1,200 in gold per month. Her Boullotte and La Perichole were her greatest successes. Mile. Lambelle (Mme. Alhaiza) was one of the most attractive ladies of opera bouffe. M. Aujac, the favorite tenor, was 52 years of age when he first appeared here. Rose Bell (real name Delapommeraye) was engaged for America at a monthly salary of ^1,000 in gold. She was the wife of Gambogi the chorus master. Mme. Desclauzas (right name Esclauzas) is the divorced wife of M. Sary, a literary gentleman of Paris. Mile. Fontanel was announced by Grau to make her American ddbut as Wanda, but she never appeared. From the hour of her landing in this country, she became ill, and remained an invalid until she left the country. Her place was filled by Mme. Goueretti, wife of M. Alard, the vio- loncellist. Fontanel was the wife of M. Goby, who appeared in " Genevieve de Brabant." M. Carrier had previously been seen and
18693 THE THEATRE FRANCAIS 455
heard in this city. He was here with Rachel as low comedian. He returned to France, and while at Bordeau, fell down stairs and was killed.
At the close of the season of 1869, in conjunction with M. Mercier, editor of Le Courier des Etats Unis, Duchesne opened a public house at Hoboken, N. J. Irma returned to Paris. During her stay in this country she became a large landed proprietress, the owner of certain title deeds to lands in the far West. She was very saving of her money, and made nearly ;^ 10,000 in gold during her eight months sojourn in this country. Gabel was killed at the storming of Sedan, Oct. 1870. At the opening of the Franco-Prussian war he rejoined the regiment to which he was originally attached before going on the stage, and fought to the last day of the reeling empire. Eugene A. Condrier, who was one of the Clodoche dancers, died at Long Branch, N. J., March 22, 1890, aged 44 years. He was familiarly known as " Frenchy," and his grotesque acting in " Genevieve de Brabant " created quite a sensation. He was buried at Mount Karmel, Long Branch.
On April 14 a benefit was given at the Theatre Frangais to the widow and children of Humphrey Bland. " Griffith Gaunt " was played, with a cast including Rose Eytinge, Blanche Grey, Sadie Cole, Mrs. H. Bland, Mrs. M. Wilkins, Mrs. Reeve, C. H. Rockwell, Dan Harkins, and Mark Smith. Eliza Newton had a benefit May 15, when "Asmodeus" was acted; a recitation by Arthur Mat- thison, the Rigl Sisters (Emily and Betty), in character dance, zouave drill exhibition by Sergt. John Burke, and the comedy of " Taming of the Shrew " formed the bill.
On May 19 John Brougham took a benefit, and the performance consisted of " The Little Rebel," " The Irish Lion," and " A Gentle- man from Ireland."
" La Vie Parisienne " was presented May 29, followed June i by " Chilperic." Mile. Desclauzas had a benefit June 7, when " Chil- peric " and the gendarme duet from " Genevieve " were given, with Rose Bell as Grabuge and Desclauzas as Pitou, and this closed the opera bouffe season.
The New Orleans French dramatic company combined with the New York dramatic (French) artists, comprising Miles. Moreau, Tholer, Silleys, Denvil, Briot, and Rosa, and MM. Moreau, Chamonin, Juignet, Rousseau, Guidon, and Francis appeared June 23 in a repre- sentation of Victorien Sardou's " Seraphine." Charles H. Morton took a benefit July 14, when he acted Bailie Nicol Jarvie in " Rob Roy." The French dramatic company played "Gavaut Minard et Cie" on August 5.
A season of English opera opened Sept. n, under the manage- ment of Carl Rosa and C. D. Hess, with the following company : Mme. Parepa-Rosa, Fanny Stockton, Rose Hersee, Mrs. E. Seguin
45 6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Ciseg
(Zelda Harrison), Wm. Castle, S. C. Campbell, Albert Lawrence, G. F. Hall, E. Seguin, De Solla, Howard, James, and Harrison. Sig. De Vivo was the business manager, and Carl Rosa and Antony Rieff the musical directors. The opening opera was Balfe's " Puritan's Daughter," given here for the first time in America, and with this cast:
Drake Mr. James
Ralph E. Seguin
Spiggott Mr. Harrison
Jessie Fanny Stockton
Mary Wolf Parepa-Rosa
Charles II G. F. HaU
Clifford Albert Lawrence
Col. Wolf .... S. C. Campbell Earl of Rochester . . Wm. Castle Ephraim Fleetwood . . Mr. De Solla Leyman Mr. Howard
This was Albert Lawrence's American d^but. On Sept. 17 Mr. Nordblom, German-English tenor, made his American debut as Thad- deus in " The Bohemian Girl." Rose Hersee's first appearance on the American stage was Sept. 18, singing Amina in "La Somnambula." " The Bohemian Girl " was given Sept. 20, " La Somnambula " Sept. 21; "Maritana" Sept. 22, with Mrs. E. Seguin as Lazarillo and Parepa-Rosa as Maritana; "Fra Diavolo" Sept. 25, for the first time; Sept. 27, " Maritana;" Sept. 29, " Martha; " Sept. 30 for the benefit of Parepa-Rosa ; matinee Oct. 2, " Martha." The season closed Oct. 2, with " The Bohemian Girl."
The house was now leased by Clifton W. Tayleure, who began Oct. II, with F. S. Chanfrau in De Walden's comedy of "Sam," supported by F. C. Bangs, C. T. Parsloe, Jr., H. B. Phillips, J. G. Boyd, C. Hamilton, and De Walden, Louisa Eldridge, Mrs. Rivers, Blanche Grey, Georgie Langley, Henrietta Irving, and Nellie Taylor. The season continued until Oct. 23, when it closed. Ger- man operas, " Faust," " Martha," " The Magic Flute " and " Robert Le Diable " were given three nights and one afternoon, from Oct. 27, by a German opera company comprising Herren Franz Himmer, Joseph Herrmanns, Weinlich, Steinecke, W. Formes, and Armand, Mme. Marie Frederici-Himmer and the Miles. Rotter, Dziuba, Johannsen, and Billon, Mr. Grau being the manager, and Carl Anschutz the musical director.
Clifton W. Tayleure opened another season Nov. 15, with a new drama by Henry Leslie, of London, called " London, or Lights and Shadows of the Great City," which had this cast :
Alice Heron Lady Euphemia Harold Forrester
Ralph Heron . Bob Austin . . Chalmers, Q. C. Job Forrester .
Clara Jennings
Mrs. Thos. Hind
. F. C. Bangs
J. Lewis Baker
Edward Righton
Geo. F. Devere
H. B. Phillips
Toby Mapletop . Chas. T. Parsloe, Jr. Policeman No. 1,059 ■ Geo. Carlisle Jas. Diggens . . . . E. Dennison
Letty Emily Pitt
Aspinall Alex Fitzgerald
Chief Justice J. G. Boyd
Pliny Irene Ryner
A season of Russian opera opened Dec. 15, when M. Verstowskajo's " Ascold's Tomb " was given.
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It held the stage for five evenings. " London, or Lights and Shadows of the Great City," was repeated Dec. 25.
On Jan. 3, 1870, a Bal de L'Opera Bouffe, under the direction of Eugene Duchalet and Mons. Henri Maseard, was given. Among the attractions was the Clodoche troupe, in the original Can-can. The tickets were $^ each.
"La Grande Duchesse" was revived Jan. 14. M. P. Juignet had a benefit Jan. 22, when the French artists acted " La Greve des Forgerons " ("The Blacksmith's Strike"), " La Supplice d'un Homme" (" A Victim of Circumstances "), and the farce, " Un Homme du Sud " (" A Man of the South "). A season of French opera bouffe commenced Jan. 24, under Byrne and Starr's management. Robert Stoepel was musical director. Mme. Moreau gave a French version of "East Lynne" Feb. 5.
" Genevieve de Brabant " was revived Feb. 7, with this cast :
Drogan .... Mrs. Howard Paul Genevieve Goueretti
Sifroy Girrebuck Brigette Briot
Golo Moreau Charles Duchesne
Grabuge Genot Bonigsemestu Rousseau
Nircisse Francis Pitou Edgard
The first act of " Barbe Bleue '' and the opera bouffe " Le Sourd " were given Feb. 18, for the benefit of M.Drivet. " Faust " a French extravaganza, was given Feb. 19, with " La Dame Blanche," for M. Girrebuck's benefit. In the latter piece Mme. Girrebuck appeared. On Feb. 22, for the benefit of Byrne & Starr, three acts of " Genevieve de Brabant," and the first act " La Grande Duchesse " were given. Mrs. Howard Paul also sang " La Marseillaise." " Robert Emmet " and " The Irish Emigrant " were played March 17. Mile. Briot pre- sented "La Perichole" March 18, for her benefit. " Frou Frou" was acted in French March 31 and April 2.
Charles Fechter appeared April 27, with Carlotta Leclercq his chief support. " The Lady of Lyons " was given with this cast :
Claude Fechter
Pauline Miss Leclercq
Beauseant L. R. Shewell
Glavis Geo. Becks
Col. Damas . . . . G. H. Griffith
Gaspard Milnes Levick
Deschappelles ... A. D. Bradley Widow Melnotte . . . Melinda Jones Madame Deschappelles
Mrs. Thos. Hind
" Don Csesar de Bazan " followed May 4, with Fechter as Don Caesar ; J. L. Cathcart as Don Jose ; Emily Pitt as Lazarillo ; and Miss Leclercq as Maritana. On May 9 and 10 " Ruy Bias " was played; " The Lady of Lyons " May 12, 13, matinee May 14, 16, 17, 18, "Hamlet" May 13, 14, " Plot and PaSsion" May 19, 20. There was no performance May 21, in consequence of a full scenic rehearsal of " The Corsican Brothers," produced May 23, with Fechter as Louis and Fabien, and Miss Leclercq as Emillie de Lesparre. " A Sheep in Wolf's Clothing" was played May 30, with Leclercq as Anne
458 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE L1871
Carew and Little Minnie Maddern as Sybil. " The Lady of Lyons " closed the season June 4. Fred Rullman was the manager.
Marie Seebach made her American debut here Sept. 22 as Gret- chen in " Faust." Among her company were Miles. Antoine Bes- singer, Edwin Bardenhauer, Herr Herrmanns, Harry, Herr Hugo, Edward, and Herr Lodovic, Geiger and Dombrowsky.
The next lessees of this house were J. H. Snyder and Charles Wheatleigh, who called it " The Fourteenth Street Theatre." Their first attraction was " Mary Stuart " presented Sept. 27 with Seebach as Mary, when Mathilde Venetta made her American d6but as Elizabeth. Seebach appeared Sept. 30 and Oct. i in drama and comedy — " Valerie, or the Blind Orphan," and " Ein Tasse Thee " ("A Cup of Tea"). " Mary Stuart" was given Oct. 3, matinee Oct. 8, II, 22; no performance Oct. 4; "Jane Eyre," Oct. 5, 7, 10, matinee Oct. 15, 25 ; " Deborah," Oct. 6, 8, Mathilde Venetta in the title r61e ; "Narcisse," Oct. 12; "Love and Intrigue," Oct. 13, 14, Seebach as Louisa Muller ; " Mathilde," Oct. 17, 18, 19, Seebach in the title role; Oct. 20, 21, 24, " Adrienne Lecouvreur; " no matinee Oct. 22; " Mary Stuart " matinee Oct. 26. For the benefit of Seebach, Oct. 27, " Adrienne Lecouvreur," was played, after which she recited Schiller's poem, " The Song of the Bell," and at the conclusion she delivered a brief address ; on Oct. 28 she played " Valerie." The season closed Oct. 29 with " Taming of the Shrew." The engage- ment of this lady was at once the greatest success and the greatest failure in our dramatic annals.
She was without doubt one of the finest European actresses that had visited us since Rachel. She had more finish of detail, more delicacy of coloring, more feminine instinct, than Ristori, and lacked nothing but physical power to entitle her to rank with that artist. The cause of her pecuniary failure lay in the language in which she acted. Mrs. F. W. Lander (Jean Davenport) in " Elizabeth" Oct. 31. In the cast were James H. Taylor, George Becks, Edwin Varrey, Milnes Levick, Alex Fitzgerald, Geo. Metkiff, Fred Monroe, Wm. Struthers, Jennie Gourlay, Gregston, Mrs. M. A. Farren and Miss E. V. Proudfoot. On Nov. 5 Mrs. Lander appeared as Mrs. Haller in " The Stranger," Nov. 12, as Mary Stuart; Nov. 14, 15, 18, 19, 21, 22, " Charlotte Corday, or a Tale of the Reign of Terror," with Charles Wheatleigh as Marat ; Nov. 16, 17, " Adrienne Lecouvreur; " Nov. 23, 24, 25, 26, "Frou Frou, or Fashion and Folly," translated expressly for her. On Dec. 3 the French Dramatic Club De L'Har- monie appeared for a benefit of the victims of the Franco-Prussian war.
A season of Italian opera commenced Jan. 4, 1871, under the di- rection of D. De Vivo, with " II Trovatore," Rose Czillag as Leonora, Sig. Reyna as Count di Luna, Le Franc as Manrico, Gazzaniga as Azucena. This opera was repeated Jan. 6 and 7. " Un Ballo in
1870 THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE
459
Maschera " Jan. lo. Carolina Viardi-Marti made her d^but and sang Amelia in place of Mme. Czillag, who was indisposed. Le Franc was the Ricardo and Miss Roselli (Rosa Cooke) was Oscar. This was this lady's first appearance in Italian opera. Friday, De Gebele sang Ulrica; Bacelli and Locatelli were also in the cast. The season closed with this performance. A series of performances were given at various theatres in this city, and throughout the country, for the benefit of the family of Geo. Holland, on Wednesday evening, Jan. 25. " The Lady of Lyons " was acted here, with this cast:
Claude Melnotte . . Charles Fechter Mme. Deschapelles . Mrs. J. Sefton Widow Melnotte . Mrs. L. E. Seymour Deschapelles . . . . E. B. Holmes Col. Damas .... Mark Smith
Beauseant . . . . C. H. Rockwell
Glavis Owen Marlowe
Gaspard Milnes Levick
Pauline .... Carlotta Leclercq Janet Miss Hayden
William M. Holland rented this house for the purpose of present- ing Edwin Forrest, who appeared Feb. 6. 1871.
This was Edwin Forrest's first appearance in this city in three years. He was seen in " King Lear," and was supported by William Harris as Edgar ; Miss Lillie, Alice Placide, O. B. Collins, T. E. Morris, Mark Bates and others were in the cast. Effie Johns (wife of William Holland) played " Fanchon " matinee and evening Feb. II. William Harris withdrew from the company after Feb. 10, giv- ing his reason for refusing the r61e of Landry Barbeaud in " Fan- chon" that he was engaged only to support Mr. Forrest. Mark Bates assumed the part. " King Lear " was continued a second week. C. Barton Hill played Edgar. " Fanchon " was given matinee Feb. 18. Forrest played " Richelieu " Feb. 20, with Barton Hill as de Mauprat, Arnold as Barradas, John Mathews as Huguet, and Thomas E. Morris as Joseph. Edwin Forrest closed Feb. 24; for the Saturday matinee, Feb. 25, Effie Johns repeated "Fanchon." Mrs. Ella Clymer (sister of Linda Dietz) made her debut the evening of Feb. 25, as Pauline in " The Lady of Lyons," to the Claude Melnotte of Barton Hill. With this performance the house closed.
Marie Seebach reappeared March 20, as Fanchon (in German) ; March 21, as Desdemona, to the lago of Herr Henry. Henry Wolf- sohn appeared as Othello. This was Mr. Wolfsohn's first appearance on any stage. Seebach was announced to appear March 22 in "Griselda," but owing to some misunderstanding, the manager of the Stadt Theatre refused to allow the members of the company to appear here, and " Love and Intrigue " was substituted, and played to almost empty benches, for a great many of the audience retired as soon as a change of programme was announced. " Dorf und Stadt," with Seebach as Lorle, was given March 23. " Educational, or City and Country Life," and " The Waiting Saloon," March 25. March 27, " Jane Eyre " was acted for the benefit of the artists who
460 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [liSji
had appeared with Seebach during her American engagement ; also the third act of " Hamlet," the third act of " Mary Stuart " and the last act of " The Gladiator of Ravenna."
Laura Keene appeared here April 11, as directress. "Nobody's Child " was played, with William Creswick as the star. The play had this cast :
Jack Adams Limping Dick . Mrs. Padston . Capt. Lazonby . Capt. Callington Patty Lavrock .
Milton Rainford W. Davidge, Jr. Miss L. Germon . F. Mordaunt . Geo. Holland . Laura Keene
Joe .... Sir Tregarvon . Bob ... . G. Peny . . . Peter Grace Lucy ....
. Mr. Creswick . W. J. Hurley L. Bateman M. A. Kennedy Harry Pearson . Alice Brooks
A great deal of money was expended in the way of advertising the performance, as well as the debut of the " star ; " but all in vain, for a bad house witnessed the initial performance, a worse one the second, a poor one the third, a bad one the fourth, and a beggarly array of empty benches during the rest of the week. " Hunted Down " was produced April 17, with Laura Keene as the star attraction. It was repeated April 18, when the house closed for the remainder of the week. Laura Keene withdrew " Nobody's Child" and Mr. Creswick, as she was satisfied the public did not want either. This action on the part of this lady was as a matter of business, and out of no disre- spect to Mr. Creswick, and he should have so looked at it, and not have appealed to the public in a moment of temporary excitement, as he did on his closing night, April 15, when called before the curtain.
David B. Vanderen died in this city April 15, 1871. He had played that night with Laura Keene, and on his way home fell sud- denly to the sidewalk. On being taken to the house he was found to be dead.
On June 26 a benefit was given to Owen Marlowe. The enter- tainment was : " A Pretty Piece of Business," by Mr. and Mrs. Charles Walcot, Edith Challis, and Mr. and Mrs. Marlowe ; ballad, " Bright Eyes," by W. J. Hill ; " Loan of a Lover," Gertrude by Lucille Western, Peter Spyk by James Heme ; recitation of " Heathen Chinee," by G. B. Rowland ; " Widow's Victim " Robert Craig as Jeremiah Clip, with imitations of James Wallack, Joseph Jefferson, Stuart Robson, and his full dress representation of Charles Dickens as a reader. " Robert Macaire" was the afterpiece.
William Creswick died at London, Eng., June 17, 1888, aged seventy-five years. He was born in England Dec. 27, 1813, and from 1839 to 1843 ^^ starred in this country making his first New York appearance at the Old Park Theatre. Returning to England, he became manager of the Surrey Theatre, London. In 1871 he paid a second visit to this country, and acted while here with Charlotte Cushman and Edwin Booth at Boston. In 1877 he toured Australia,
1873] THE LYCEUM 461
and on Oct. 29, 1885, he took his farewell of the London stage at Drury Lane, playing a scene from " King Lear." He was not a great actor; his name is not associated specially with any famous parts or in any remarkable stage productions, but in whatever he attempted he was always intelligent and painstaking.
An amateur performance of " Don Csesar de Bazan " took place April 26, for the benefit of the Chapin Home. Charles Wheatleigh and Mr. Snyder surrendered their lease to Duncan & Sherman the bankers and the owners of the theatre on July i, 1871.
Charles Wheatleigh withdrew from the management, and Mr. Snyder continued up to the time Charles Fechter purchased the theatre and land. He tore down the old house during the summer of 1 871. Duncan & Sherman advanced Mr. Fechter a large sura of money to rebuild. He invested some ^50,000 of his own money in the enterprise. He entirely reconstructed the edifice, added the portico in front and introduced many novelties in the stage depart- ment. His reckless expenditure of money caused a breach between Duncan, Sherman & Co. and himself, and they took the theatre from him by legal process before he opened it. Consequently, what money he had invested of his own and borrowed from Carlotta Leclercq was lost.
Mr. Fechter announced the opening of this theatre, which he now called " The Lyceum," for Nov. 25, with " Monte Cristo," but it was not opened. It was again stated that the rehearsals of " Monte Cristo" would be commenced March 2, 1873. The opening was announced for March 31, but, during the previous week, Duncan, Sherman & Co. took possession of the theatre and ejected all of Mr. Fechter's workmen and agents. On April 28, 1873, Fechter ap- peared at the Grand Opera House, this city. Charles Fechter died on his farm at Richland Centre, Pa., Aug. 4, 1879. He was born at London, Oct. 23, 1824, and first appeared on the American stage Jan. 10, 1870, at Niblo's Garden, in "Ruy Bias," supported by Car- lotta Leclercq. He there failed to satisfy his audiences. He as- sumed the management of the Globe Theatre, Boston, Sept. I2, 1870, and retired from it Jan. 14, 1871, and on that day he received a ben- efit tendered to him by leading citizens of Boston.
His share amounted to ;^3,200, every cent of which he donated to various charities in that city. Returning to Europe, on March 2, 1872, he appeared at the Adelphi Theatre, London, as Ruy Bias. His last engagement in this city was at the Broadway Theatre (now Daly's), commencing Dec. 19, 1877, as Edmond Dantes in " Monte Cristo." He closed Jan. 26, 1878, as Ruy Bias. His last engage- ment on any stage was to have commenced April 7 at the Howard Athenaeum, Boston, but he was suffering from a gastric attack. He appeared before the curtain, stated the cause of his illness, and dis- missed the audience. He appeared April 8, as Lagardere in " The
462 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE :i873
Duke's Motto," and continued for the week. He was again too ill to act on April 14, but reappeared April 15 in "Black and White," which ran until the close of the engagement, April 19, when he made his last appearance on any stage. He died a very poor man. His remains were interred in Mount Vernon cemetery, Philadelphia. Mr. Fechter went through the round of characters in which the repu- tation of Frederick Lemaitre had been achieved. He had many gifts in common with Lemaitre, and no man on the English stage approached nearer to his level. In Shakespearian plays, certain passions were strikingly represented. The spectator was delighted, amused, and surprised. He mistook our actors, our public, and our press, and all three mistook him as man and as actor. During his management of the Globe Theatre, Boston, he got at loggerheads with James W. Wallack, Jr. and other popular artists, and this trouble created a powerful feeling against him all over the country, a feeling whose ill effects were felt more by the managers, who paid him large "certainties," than by Mr. Fechter himself. In several cities the papers wantonly and wickedly abused him. At Cincinnati, especially, they assailed him in a gross and brutal manner. The result of this was that managers feared to give him again the terms he required, and he would not abate a jot. He refused to accept from Mr. Booth an engagement on the same terms given to Joseph Jefferson.
This theatre was reopened Sept. 11, 1873, under the ostensible management of W. L. Mansen, assisted by Charles Wheatleigh as business manager. Mr. Hoffman, a wealthy gentleman and father of George Hoffman (who afterwards married the premiere danseuse Marie Bonfanti), was the financial backer.
The first attraction offered by the new management was Thomas C. King who opened in " The Hunchback of Notre Dame " :
Mme. Gondelaurier, Mrs. J. L. Carhart Fleur de Lys . . . Miss Henderson Claud Frollo . . Chas. Wheatleigh
Esmeralda Jeffreys Lewis
Quasimodo T. C. King
Phoebus Harry Dalton
Gringoire Sol Smith, Jr.
Gudule Miss Crawford
Clopin Dan Leeson
Ninette Maud Egerton
This was the American d^but of T. C. King, Harry Dalton, Miss Henderson, Jeffreys Lewis, and Miss Crawford. Espinosa was ballet master. Dan Leeson reappeared in America here after an absence of fourteen years in England. " The Hunchback of Notre Dame " was acted until Oct. 25, except on the matinde Oct. 25, when Salvini played Hamlet, and Piamonti, Ophelia. On Oct. 27 " Othello " was presented, with this cast :
Othello T. C. King
lago Chas. Wheatleigh
Desdemona . . . Jeffreys Lewis Emelia .... Mrs. J. L. Carhart
Cassio Henry Dalton
Brabantio Sol Smith
Roderigo .... Edward Coleman
I874I1
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" Ingomar " was billed for Oct. 28, but no performance took place, and the house closed, the season having been a losing one. On Nov. 24 the theatre reopened with Italian opera. Pauline Lucca and lima di Murska made their joint appearance as Azucena and Leo- nora in " II Trovatore ; " Sig. Mari was Count di Luna, and Sig. Tamberlik, Manrico. " Don Giovanni " was sung Nov. 26, with Pauline Lucca, Di Murska, Lichtmay, Tamberlik, Jamet, Lehman, Reina, and Ronconi in the cast.
" Notre Dame " was acted Thanksgiving night (November 27), and continued Nov. 28, 29, and Dec. i, with T. C. King as Quasimodo. The afterpiece was " The Debutante," Charles Wheatleigh playing Achile Talma Dufard. " Still Waters Run Deep " was acted one week, commencing Dec. 2, with Charles Wheatleigh as John Mild- may. T. C. King died at Kingscroft, Birmingham, Eng., Nov.,
1893-
" A Model of a Wife," was also seen. Charles Fechter appeared Dec. II in " The Lady of Lyons '' and continued it until Dec. 20. The theatre closed Dec. 22. The house reopened March 3, 1874, with T. C. King in "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" for the bene- fit of the central dispensary. Phillis Glover presided in the box office for the sale of tickets.
Bessie Darling, a pupil of Fanny Morant,made her first appearance on any stage March 4, as Juliana in "The Honeymoon." Stella Congdon (Mrs. Frank Chapman), Geo. Becks, Sol Smith, Charles Leclercq, Charles Wheatleigh, and Charles Loveday were in this cast. The proceeds were given to the Helping Hand Society.
A season of Italian opera commenced March 5, with " Lucia Di Lammermoor," Di Murska as Lucia, Sig. Vizzani as Edgardo. Max Maretzek was musical director. Mile. E. Sorel appeared March 6 in "Faust;" March 7, "Martha," and " Dinorah " (second act), Di Murska as Lady Henrietta, Natalie Testa as Nancy. Di Murska sang for the first time the " Shadow Song " in " Dinorah." On March 9 Charles Chamberlain Jr. was announced as the manager of this theatre, when Marie Aimee, with a French opera bouffe company appeared under the direction of C. Chizzola, in " La Fille de Madame Angot," with Aimee as Clairette. This was continued until March 20, when " Les Cent Vierges " was acted, followed March 21 by " Le Petit Faust," with Aim^e as Marguerite for the first time. Stani was the Mephisto and Juteau the Faust. " La Vie Parisienne" March 23, 24, 25, first times in five years.
On March 26 " Camille " was presented here, with this cast:
Camille Clara Morris
Prudence .... Marie Willcins
Nicliette Kate Claxton
Olympe .... Louise Henderson Monsieur Duval . . . F. F. Mackay
Mons. De Varville . W. B. Laurens
Nanine Kate Holland
Arraand Duval . . . Frank Mayo
Gaston Geo. F. Rowe
Gustave J. B. Polk
464 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 1:1874
This was one of five performances given that afternoon, and was for the "Actors' Charity Benefit." The idea originated with A. M. Palmer. The captains and patrolmen of police, and the fire- men of the city sold tickets to the number of 24,835. The admis- sion tickets were good at any of the five theatres, viz. : The Academy of Music, Lyceum Theatre, Niblo's Garden, Booth's Theatre, and Union Square Theatre.
Marie Aimee closed here April 4, 1874, with " Madame An- got" (second act), " Les Pan tins de Violette " and " Mons. Chon- fleuri."
Schumann's Transatlantic combination of pantomimists and spe- cialty artists made their American d^but here April 6, in " A Parisian Folly." Among the performers were Brown's female velocipedists, with whom were Addie (afterwards the wife of Prof. Herrmann), Almonte ; Thos. Lovell, Mons. Elliott, Mile. Frederika, Mons. Francke, Mile. Corr^e, Don Ferreya, the man flute, Herr A. Schulze, Marie Bonfanti, the Russell Family, J. B. Johnson, champion swimmer, and Beckmann, juggler. The pantomime " The Phantoms " was pro- duced April 13, with a new ballet by L'Espinosa. This entertain- ment closed April 18, and was followed, April 20, by "La Marjo- laine," with F. F. Mackay, Fannie Foster, and Phillis Glover, in the cast. Jane Coombs appeared here May 4 as Lady Teazle in "The School for Scandal," with Frederic Robinson as Charles, Theo. Hamilton as Joseph, and Owen Marlowe as Sir Benjamin. This lady's engagement terminated very abruptly on May 9, and the house was closed until Aug. 24, when it was reopened by C. A. Chiz- zola and Maurice Grau, with the Marie Aimee French Opera Bouffe company, in "La Timbale d'Argent," presented for the first time in America, and with this cast:
MuUer Aim^e
Molda Mile. Minelly
Raab Mons. Dubouchet
Pruth Mons. Debeer
Wilhelra Mons. Perrant
Fitchet Mile. Guidon
Gaben Mile. Dubouchet
Pola Mile. Briot
Barnabe Mons. Guyot
This was the American d^but of Minelly, Guidon, Debeer, Guyot, and Mons. Dubouchet. This opera was sung for the last time Sept. 7, 8, 9, when Aim^e appeared as Molda and Minelly as MuUer.
" La Princesse de Trebizonde " was sung for the first time in America in French Sept. 10, and had this cast:
Le Prince Cassimir . . M. Duplan Le Prince Raphael .... Aim6e
Zanetta Minelly
Regina Mile. Guidon
Paola Mile. Kid
Cabriolo M. Dubouchet
Tremolini M. Debeer
Sparadrap M. Guyot
x875ll
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This was the American debut of Mile. Kid. " La Fille de Mme. Angot": was given Oct. 5. with this cast:
Ponponnet Debeer
Larivaudiere Dubouchet
Trenitz Genot
Louchard Duplan
Clairette Aimde
Mile. Lange Minelly
Amaranthe Mile. Kid
Ange Pitou M. KoUetz
Gadet Guyot
Ange and Trenitz were the original rQles of Kolletz and Genot at Paris. This was the American debut of Kolletz. For Aimee's bene- fit, Oct. 16, " La Perichole " was sung and the engagement closed Oct. 17.
Adelaide Neilson appeared here as Beatrice on Oct. 19, in " Much Ado About Nothing," supported by J. H. Barnes as Benedick.
Beatrice Miss Neilson
Benedick J. H. Barnes
Dogberry Vining Bowers
Hero . . Don Pedro
Rose St. Clair G. B. Waldron
This was the American debut of J. H. Barnes. " Romeo and Juliet," with Neilson as Juliet and Barnes as Romeo, was acted Oct. 22, 23, 24, 26, 28, 3 1 : " Much Ado About Nothing " Oct. 27, 29, 30, and matinee Oct. 31.
Emily Soldene made her American debut Nov. 2, with an Eng- lish opera company, as Drogan in " Genevieve de Brabant. "
"La Fille de Madame Angot" was given Nov. 16, with Soldene as Mile. Lange. "The Grand Duchess," Nov. 30, Soldene in the title r61e. " Chilperic " was presented, for the first time in America (in English), Dec. 9, with this cast :
Chilperic Soldene Divitiacus
Lenna E. Marshall Gatsuinda
Landry H. Laurent Brunchant
Fatout J. Wallace Alfred . .
Sigibert Lewens Clodomir .
Nervoso J. B. Rae Leucaste .
Fredegonde . . Miss A. Lyndhurst
This opera was repeated Dec. 20; " La Fille de Madame Angot," Dec. 22, 23; "Genevieve," Dec. 24-28; "The Grand Duchess," Dec. 26; and, for the first time in America, Dec. 29, (in English), "Madame L'Archiduc," with this cast:
. . . J. Quine Miss L. Robson Miss H. Traves . . Clara Vesey Miss L. Carthew . Miss St. Clair
Marietta Soldene
Fortunata .... Miss Robson Countess Miss Vesey
The Archduke Marshall
Giletti Beverly
Soldene closed Jan. 2, 1875.
Mrs. Rousby made her American d^but Jan. 4 in Tom Taylor's " 'Twixt Axe and Crown " :
VOL. II. -.-30
466 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [11875
Lady Elizabeth . . Edward Courtney . Earl of Sussex . . Lord Puget . . . Lord Wm. Howard Sir John Brydges . Sir John Farrington Sir Thomas Wyatt
"As You Like Rosalind and Geo.
Mrs. Rousby
. Geo. Clarke
. James Dunn
. James Stark
W. A. Sands
D. Ralton
Vining Bowers
. Ed. S. Tarr
Simon G. B. Waldron
Gardiner .... Welsh Edwards
Queen Kate Meek
Duchess Mrs. Denvil
Rutter Frank Beresford
Parry E. J. Mack
Isabel Isabel Waldron
Cicely Annie Mack
Feb. 3, 4, with Mrs. Rousby as
It " was acted
Clarke as Orlando ; " Camille " was played Feb. 5, matinee and evening Feb. 6, with .Geo. Clarke as Armand, and Mrs. Rousby as the consumptive heroine.
Carlotta Leclercq appeared here Feb. 8, as Mercy Merrick, in "The New Magdalen," with Geo. Clarke as Julian Grey.
John L. Toole was seen Feb. 15 in "Off the Line," playing his original character of Harry Coke. " Domestic Economy " was the afterpiece, with Toole as Grumley. "The Great Trial of Bar- dell vs. Pickwick," Feb. 22; also " Domestic Economy " and "The Dodger," Toole as the Artful Dodger. "The Steeplechase, or Toole in the Pigskin," Feb. 24; "Sweethearts and Wives," Feb. 26, also imitations of actors, Toole as Billy Lackaday, followed by "Ici On Parle Franjais. "
Adelaide Ristori reappeared in America March 2, as Eliza- beth, Queen of England; "Mary Stuart," March 3, 8, 12, matinee March 13; "Elizabeth," March 4, matinee March 6, 12; "Medea," March 5, 15; " Lucrezia Borgia, " March 9, 11, 16; "Marie Antoi- nette," March 17, 19, 22. Ristori acted in Brooklyn, Thursday, March 18, and she terminated her engagement at the Lyceum, March 27, with "Marie Antoinette." Marie Aimee reappeared March 29, in "La Jolie Parfumeuse." Ristori reappeared April 13 in "Marie Antoinette" and the sleep-walking scene from "Macbeth" (in English); matinee, April 14, "Marie Antoinette."
Aimee was seen April 14, 15, 16, as Rose Michon in "La Jolie Parfumeuse." Mme. Gandon and Mons. Debeer were also seen. Ristori acted Elizabeth and the sleep-walking scene, matinee April 17. On May 3, 4, Ristori played in "Renata Di Francia, or the Huguenots ; " May 5, " Marie Antoinette ; " May 6, for the benefit of the Italian school building fund, Ristori appeared as Queen Elizabeth, also in French, " Les Adieux de Jeanne d' Arc ; " May 7 in " Medea " and " I Pazzi der Progette " (" Mad on Pur- pose"); matinee. May 8, Ristori closed in "Lucrezia Borgia." For the Dan Bryant Benefit Fund, April 29, the bill was " La Jolie Parfumeuse," cast thus:
Rose Michon .... Mile. Aim^e
Bavolet Mile. Nardynn
Clorinde Mile. Gandon
La Julienne .... Mile. Cantrelle
Arthemise Mile. Sivry
Madelon Mile. Vaudelet
Justine Mile. Delmas
Lise Mile. Coralgia
Mirette Mile. Defranz
Poirot M. KoUetz
La Cocardiere Debeer
Germain Arrigotti
1875]
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467
The French comedy company appeared on May 8 in " Le Feu Au Convent," Mile. Girardin as Adrienne, also "La Petite Cousine," and "La Cravate Blanche." Aimee returned in "La Jolie Parfumeuse" May 10; "Le Petit Faust," May 11; "La Fille de Madame Angot," May 12; "La Pdrichole," May 13; "Lischen and Fritschen," "Jolie Parfumeuse" (second act), and "La Femme Aux .^ufs d'Or," matinee, May 14, with M. Juignet as Blanc Mignon, a ballet master, in the latter piece. With this performance Aimee terminated her engagement.
" Girofle Girofla " was produced here May 14, with this cast :
Girofl^ Mile. Geoffrey
Pedro Mile. Dorel
Paquita .... Mile. Vandamme Bolero M. Valaire
Marasquin
Aurore
Mourzouk
Mile. Minelly . Mile. Keil M. de Quercy
This opera was repeated the weeks of May 17 and 24, except evening May 28 and matinee May 29, when " La Fille de Madame Angot" was presented, Mme. Lange being acted for the first time here by Mile. Geoffrey. " Barbe Bleue " (third act) was also given, with M. de Quercy (first time here) in the title r61e. "Bagatelle" was done on the same nights.
Emily Soldene reappeared here May 31 in "Chilperic; " "Mme. L'Archiduc" was given June 1-4; "Genevieve de Brabant," June 2 ; " Madame Angot " June 3, and Soldene closed June 4.
This house was reopened Sept. 6 by Maurice Grau and Chizzola for a French opera bouffe season, with "Madame L'Archiduc," Mile. Coralie Geoffrey as Marietta, Mme. Duparc as Fortunato, Mme. Nardynn as La Comtesse, M. de Quercy as Giletti. This opera was continued until Sept. 27, when " La Fille de Madame Angot " was given, with Mile. Geoffrey (first time) as Clairette. " Girofle Girofla " was sung Oct. 6, with this cast :
Marasquin . . . Mons. Ludovici Chef des Pirates . . Mons. Valter
Girofle Mile. Geoffrey
Pedro Mile. Duparc
Paquita Mile. Hosdez
Aurore Mile. Kid
Mourzouk . . . Mons. Rogers Bolero Mons. Duplan
" Le Canard a Trois Bees '' (" The Wonderful Duck ") was seen for the first time Oct. 16, and repeated the week of Oct. 18; "Le Petit Faust," Oct. 24, Mile. Geoffrey (first time) as Marguerite, Nardynn as Mephisto, Mons. de Quercy as Faust, and Mons. Rogers as Valentin. "Mme. L'Archiduc" closed the engage- ment Oct. 25.
A season of French comedy and drama commenced Oct. 27, with "Le Gendre de M. Poirier;" Oct. 28, "Le Marquis de Vil- lemer; " Juliette Clarence made her ddbut Oct. 30 as Frou Frou.
The " Mexican Juvenile Troupe " commenced in " La Grande Duchesse" Nov. i, and repeated it Nov. 3, 5. Carman Moran,
468 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE HiSjS
eight years old, and Guadalupe Moran, six years of age, were the prima donnas.
" Dalila " had its first representation in America Nov. 2 ; " Les Lionnes Pauvres," Nov. 4; "Le Gendre de M. Poirier," Nov. 6. The Mexican Troupe appeared Nov. 8, 10, 12, in the sentimental opera, "Marina," Lenorina Carmen as Marina. The French com- pany appeared at the Union Square Theatre matinee, Nov. 11, in "Frou Frou." They returned here Nov. 11-13 in "The Sphinx" for the first time in America, with Juliette Clarence as Blanche de Cheller. The opera bouffe, "Robinson Crusoe," was acted by the Mexican Juveniles Nov. 17, and they closed with the matinee Nov.
20. The French company acted the week of Nov. 22 in "Les Deux Orphelines " (" The Two Orphans "), except Nov. 26, when an amateur performance was given. On Nov. 29, " Dalila " was seen; Nov. 30, " La Princesse Georges ; " Dec. i, "Nos Intimes" (" Bosom Friends ").
Charles Fechter reappeared in " No Thoroughfare " Dec. 2, act- ing, for the first time in French, Rischenbach, better known in English as Jules Obenreizer. This play was repeated Dec. 6, 7, 8; Fechter played Armand in " La Dame aux Camillas," to Juliette Clarence's Marguerite Gauthier, Dec. 9, 10, and matinee, Dec. 11. This lady took a benefit Dec. 11, when she acted for the first time in America in " La Maitresse Legitime. " Fechter repeated " La Dame aux Camelias " Dec. 13, 15, 17 and matinee, Dec. 18. The French company appeared on the alternate nights. The Charity Amateur dramatic association acted in " The School for Scandal " night of Dec. 18, Mrs. Sheridan Shook as Lady Teazle, Mr. Dyas as Sir Oliver, and J. H. Bird as Sir Peter Teazle. Mrs. McKin- ley, Mrs. B. Fox, Mrs. James Sykes, A. De Cordova, H. Leslie, Charles Bambergh, P. Coulter, and others were in the cast.
"Ici Medor" and "On Demande un Gouverneur" were acted by the French company Dec. 20; "Le Jocrisse de I'Amour," Dec.
21. "Le Chevalier du Pince-Nez" (Dec. 23) had its first repre- sentation in America for M. Meziere's benefit. "Le Homard" ("The Lobster") was also given. Sardou's "Seraphine" was pro- duced here Dec. 25.
The house now closed and continued dark until Jan. 13, 1876, when the French comedy company reappeared for one week. An athletic entertainment took place Jan. 24, with Greco-Roman and collar and elbow wrestling, club swinging, and sparring between John Dwyer and Steve Taylor. For the benefit of the New York Foundling Asylum, on Feb. 26, "The Shamrock" was acted by amateurs. Thomas B. Meagher was the Sergt. Kearney. "Un Ballo in Maschera" was sung Feb. 28, for the benefit of the Samaritan Home for the aged. The performance was under the direction of L. Albites, Gazzaniga-Albites as Ulrica, Mrs. E.
1876]
THE LYCEUM
469
Hartz as Emelia, Clara Siegel as Oscar, Fritsch as Ricardo, Dr. Valentine as Renato, T. P. Wickes as Samuel, and T. R Fowler as Tomaso.
An amateur performance of " Hamlet " was given March 10, with this cast:
Hamlet Claudius Laertes Polonius Horatio Gliost . Osric . Priest . Rosencrantz First Actor
Master N. S. Wood
Augustus Frederic
. . S. S. Simpson
Dr. J.B. Cutter
. . Wm. B. Stover
Washington Barrows . . . Cora May . . . B. Everett . . Jerome Stevens
D. Featherstonbaugh
First Gravedigger Second Gravedigger Queen ... Guildenstern Second Actor Marcellus Bernardo . Francisco Ophelia . Actress .
L. P. Britt
D. Forrest
Miss H. R. Renney
Henry Lee
R. Kerwin
A. A. Britton
J. Bradyn
H. B. Morris
Blanche Osborne
. . Amy Wood
After being closed two nights the theatre was reopened March 13 by Matt Morgan, the scenic artist, with selections by Adolphine Estelle, Mary Tournurville, Julia and Vincent Hogan, Tom Bartle- man, and Joseph Danvers. A comedy entitled "Off the Stage," was acted with Walter Lennox, Minnie Palmer, Charles Villers, Eva West, Wm. A. Rouse, and Nellie Boyd in the cast. N. C. Goodwin, Jr., gave imitations of actors, and a burlesque called "The Pique Family," by Sydney Rosenfeld, closed the entertain- ment. The cast of the burlesque (which was a travesty on Daly's play of " Pique ") was :
Matthew Spanish Arthur Hawkins Jimmy Loose Inflation Tim Charley Ross Phanny Dazzlingport
W. A. Rouse
Chas. Villers
Minnie Palmer
Vincent Hogan
. Admiral Dot
Harry Josephs
Widow Lucille . Count DoUymonat Dr. Gastric . . Rainbow Blessing Johnny Droo
. Miss A. Estelle H. Wayne Ellis . Walter Lennox . . Eva West . Florence Ellis
This was Minnie Palmer's first appearance in New York. Her d^but on the stage was made June 8, 1874, at the Park Theatre, Brooklyn, in " Le Pavilion Rouge " (" The Red Flag "). The bur- lesque was pointless and fell flat. Walter Lennox made a hit in his make-up for John Brougham. Annie Mack joined the com- pany March 20, and the comedy, "The Wrong Man" was acted, in which Sidney Smith made his New York d^but. "The Day After the Wedding," with Minnie Palmer in the leading rdle was played March 27, followed by the farce, "The Goose with the Golden Eggs," and Burnand's burlesque "Black Eyed Susan," N. C. Goodwin, Jr., as Capt. Crosstree, Minnie Palmer as Susan, Annie Mack as William, and Harry Josephs as Dame Hatley. "Sketches in India," "The Little Rebel," and "Black Eyed Susan," were given April 3, when Lottie Angell, a London vocalist, made her American debut. " Sarah's Young Man," "The Little Rebel," and "Black Eyed Susan," April 10; "Love in
470 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1876
Livery," "The Merry Man," "Love's Dawn," April 17. "The Field of the Cloth of Gold," and the drama, "Old Salt," April
24. In the latter piece Bijou Heron made her debut. Bertha and Ida Foy appeared in their sketch, "Bal Masque." The house closed abruptly April 27.
Marie Aimee reappeared Sept. 25 for the first time in New York in "Girofle Girofla," playing the two heroines with M. Ranoult as Marasquin.
This was the New York debut of Ranoult and Reine. Miles. Kid, Duparc, MM. Duplan, Reine, and Ruiz were also in the cast. " La Grande Duchesse " was sung Sept. 27; "LaPerichole," Sept. 28; "La Fille de Madame Angot," Sept. 29; "Girofl6 Girofla," matinee, Sept. 30; Aim6e closed Sept. 30 with "La Timbale D' Argent," in which she was seen as Molda. Louise M. Pomeroy made her first appearance in this city Oct. 16 as Juliet in "Romeo and Juliet." M. V. Lingham was the Romeo, Mrs. Harry Jordan the Nurse, and J. B. Roberts, Mercutio. Welsh Edwards, Aug. Pitou, Charles Villers, Mrs. J. J. Prior, Will Sands, Joseph O. Sefton were also in the cast. " The Lady of Lyons" was played Oct. 19, 20, matinee Oct. 21, with Louise Pomeroy as Pauline, Mr. Lingham as Claude ; " Romeo and Juliet," Oct. 21, when the lady terminated her engagement. She was a pupil of J. B. Roberts, and was quite successful. She was then the wife of " Brick " Pomeroy, the journalist. She died in New York, June 7, 1893.
James H. McVicker was the next lessee of this house, and he presented Edwin Booth as the star, Nov. 20, in " Hamlet, " thus cast:
Hamlet Edwin Booth
King Milnes Levick
Polonius Frank Pierce
Ophelia Clara Jennings
First Gravedigger J. H. McVicker
" The Lady of Lyons " was played matinee, Nov. 25, Booth as Claude Melnotte; Nov. 27, and the week, "The Fool's Revenge." Matinde, Dec. 2, "The Stranger." Booth opened his third week, Dec. 4, with " King Richard II. " Matinde, Dec. 9, " Don Caesar de Bazan ; " " Othello " commenced the week of Dec. 1 1, Fred Eobinson as lago, Booth as Othello, Clara Jennings as Desde- mona, and Jennie Carroll as Emelia; Dec. 13, 14, 16, Booth acted Shylock in " The Merchant of Venice ; " matinee, Dec. 16, Booth played lago to Robinson's Othello. " Richelieu " was given Dec. 18, and all the week except matinee Dec. 23, when "Much Ado About Nothing" was seen; "Richard III." was acted Dec.
25, and all the week except matinee Dec. 30, when " Ruy Bias " was done.
Laertes .... James H. Hardie
Ghost Fred Robinson
Queen Jennie Carroll
Horatio Hart Conway
18773
THE LYCEUM
471
Edwin Booth appeared Jan. i, 1877, in "Brutus, or the Fall of Tarquin ; " matinee Jan. 6, " Much Ado About Nothing ; " Jan. 8, 9, 10, 13, as King Lear, with Clara Jennings as Cordelia, Jennie Carroll as Goneril, Alice Brooks as Regan, F. Robinson as Edgar, J. M. Hardie as Edmund, and Milnes Levick as Kent.
For Jan. 11, 12, " Ruy Bias " and "The Taming of the Shrew; " matinee Jan. 13, "The Merchant of Venice;" Jan. 15, 16, "Ham- let;" Jan. 17, "The Fool's Revenge;" Jan. 18, "Othello," Booth as Othello, Robinson as lago ; Jan. 19, matinee Jan. 20, " Riche- lieu;" evening, Jan. 20, "The Stranger" and "The Taming of the Shrew." For his farewell week "The Merchant of Venice," Jan. 22; "Brutus," Jan. 23; "Richard HI.," Jan. 24; "The Lady of Lyons," Jan. 25; "Ruy Bias" and "Don Caesar de Bazan," Jan. 26; "Hamlet," matinee Jan. 27; evening, Jan. 27, "Othello," Booth as lago.
After being closed for two weeks, the house was reopened March 12, for one week, by Geo. Wood, who introduced Alice Oates and an English comic opera company, consisting of Alice Oates, Emme Roseau (afterwards Mrs. Samuel Colville), Rose Temple, Julia Chapman, Venie and Laura Clancy, Susie and Annie Winner, Bessie Temple, Ella Caldwell, Susie Parker, Maud Bowman, Charles H. Drew, John Howson, Henry Laurent, J. H. Jones, A. W. MafHin, Ed. Horan, and Jesse Williams, musical and stage director. "La Fille de Madame Angot" was sung March 12, 13, 14; "Girofl6Girofla," March 15, matinee March 17, "LaJoliePar- fumeuse," March 16; "La Princesse de Trebizonde," March 17.
" Camille " was announced for April 16, with Adelaide Lennox as the heroine, but the house did not open until April 21. Henry Dalton acted Armand, and Mrs. Julia Brutone, Madame Prudence. The seventh annual operatic entertainment given by Mme. Murio Celli and her pupils took place on May 14.
This house was leased in July by Charles R. Thome, who opened Sept. 10, with "Under the Willows," which had this cast:
Albert . Antoine Jean Helene Duke .
Edwin F. Thome
. D. W. Waller
Wm. Henderson
Jennie Murdock
. Geo. Metkiff
Count de FavroUes . J. F. Crossen
Muracan Walter Lennox
Hortense Emma Waller
Marie Dollie Thornton
"Michael Strogoff" was played for the first time in America Sept. 24. This was a version by M. V. Lingham. Geo. B. Waldron acted Michael ; W. H. Collins was Ivan, and Mabel Jordan the heroine. This was this lady's first appearance on any stage.
Marie Aimee reappeared Dec. 14 in " La Reine Indigo " (" Queen Indigo"). It was repeated matinee and evening Dec. 15, 17, 18;
472 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1878
"La Jolie Parfumeuse," Dec. 19; "La Marjolaine," Dec. 20; "La P6richole," Dec. 21; "Les Cent Vierges" ("The One Hun- dred Virgins ") at a matinee Dec. 22, Aimee as Gabrielle.
Geo. Jones (Count Joannes), supported by his pupil, Avonia Fairbanks, and a dramatic company, appeared Feb. 4, 1878, and continued until Feb. 25. No more disgraceful scenes were ever witnessed in an American theatre. The initial performance was "Romeo and Juliet." The audience was a large one and disposed to scoff. Whenever the Count showed a weak point the audience was sure to make fun. For three hours there was genuine hi- larity, born of the spontaneous humor. In fact, few persons left the theatre without a sense of fatigue from sheer merriment — aching sides and weary diaphragms that resulted from an involun- tary run of the gamut of laughter. The Count would occasionally walk down to the footlights and, when he could be heard, defend Miss Fairbanks from the gibes and laughter of the audience. From the beginning to the end of the play, Romeo and Juliet were under the fire of a blazing battery of ridicule. When Romeo kissed Juliet the house echoed with one prolonged osculatorial symphony, and cries of: "Brace up, old boy! Do it some more!" were heard. Then it was that the Count stepped indignantly to the front of the stage, and said : " If there are no policemen here, there ought to be. My contract with the theatre involves the preservation of perfect order, and I ask it not so much for my own sake as that of the lady who is now on the stage. " The answer to this was a howl. Alice Grey acted Lady Capulet, Florence Vincent, the Nurse, and Robert Johnston, Friar Lawrence. The audience attempted to " S^y " Robert Johnston, but he walked down to the footlights, and said : " Gentlemen of New York, I have been an actor for thirty years, and never before have been treated like a clown. I am reading the lines of Shakespeare to the best of my ability, and if you will let me alone I will go on ; if not, ray sense of manhood will compel me to retire." He was not thereafter annoyed. On Feb. 5 Frances Waldberg made her American debut in a play called "The Two Husbands." This lady had been heard of pre- viously as an amateur. The Count appeared Feb. 6, as Richard III. The boys in the gallery constantly requested him to pull up his boots, and suggested that he should " skip the gutter. " Miss Fairbanks, who supported the Count, was treated with little more consideration than was shown to him. After an unusually offen- sive interruption Miss Fairbanks turned fiercely upon the audience and said : " You are cowards, not men, and this annoyance is caused by the author of that coward's article in last night's Telegram, who, if he will send his name to me, I pledge myself before Heaven to cowhide on Broadway to-morrow." The performance continued in dumb show. During one of the intermissions the orchestra played
18783 THE LYCEUM 473
"The Sweet By and By," and the entire audience taking up the song sang it twice to the end.
Miss Waldberg repeated " The Two Husbands " Feb. 7-9.
The Count acted " Hamlet" Feb. 8, and for the matinee Feb. 9, "Romeo and Juliet." In the balcony scene some one called out to the Count to "go around the corner and brace up." When Juliet appealed to the moon, some one told her to "cheese it." When one of the followers of the two houses of Montague or Capulet was killed some one exclaimed : " Harpooned ! Another murder in the Fourth Ward ! " Juliet was requested to pull down her vest. The Count was told to "shoot somebody's hat with a bow and arrow. " In the kissing scene he was advised to " put on a porous plaster." Juliet, when taking the poison, was told to "bite off a big piece of navy plug," and to "take it with seltzer or apollinaris. " The Count was requested in his love scene to "soften it up a little with corned beef and cabbage," and "when he was in doubt to play trumps." When Juliet died some one exclaimed: "It's going to be a cold night, put on an extra quilt." "The Two Husbands " was given once more Feb. 9.
The Count appeared as "Richard III." Feb. 11. Ada Gray made her debut as Lady Isabel in "East Lynne," and continued in the part Feb. 12, 14, matinee Feb. 16, evenings Feb. 19, 20, 21.
"Othello" was presented Feb. 13 by the Count, and the per- formance began by the Count appearing before the footlights and informing the audience that there were fifty policemen in the house, who, if they did their duty in front, would find that the actors would do theirs on the stage. The audience, which was a large one, came to "guy," and "guy" they did to their heart's content. A penny whistle and the bleating of stray sheep were occasionally heard. The Count was told to lift up his ulster aud dance a jig. When Miss Fairbanks kneeled and clasped her hands, some one shouted out : " Life size, two for a quarter ! " The handkerchief scene excited great interest. " What will you give for it .'' " said Emilia to lago. "Five cents," said the gallery. "Oh, give her a trade dollar!" said the parquet. "Send it to the laundry," said another. Frank Noyes, who played lago, was told to shoot the feather in his hat. The last act was entirely pantomime. Every time any of the actors crossed the stage the audience fell to beat- ing time, and shouting: "Debazan, Debazan!" "Halt!" "Shake- speare may be dead," said a man in the audience, as he put on his overcoat, " but he has been murdered here to-night. " As the audi- ence retired, they recited in concert : " First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen." "King Lear" was given Feb. 15, and there was little variation of former disgraceful scenes. " The Sweet By and By " was sung in chorus as well as
474 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1878
"Don't be Weary, Children, I Am Going Home." "Richard III." was put on Feb. 16, when there was the usual noisy crowd present. Richard was not permitted to cross the stage without a " left — left — left — halt ! " In the tent scene he was reminded that it was nearly daylight, and "time to milk the cows," where- upon they mewed and crowed like an army of cats and roosters. The Count made a speech, in which he said: "Let those laugh who win ; there are more fools off the stage than on it. " For his benefit, Feb. 18, he acted "Hamlet." The house was crowded, and from beginning to end scarcely a word said on the stage was audible, so loud and continuous were the cat-calls, laughter, and sarcastic comments and advice given by the spectators to the players. When the Count came on as the Prince, he was greeted with three cheers and shrieks of laughter. He came to the foot- lights, and striking an attitude, exclaimed to the audience: "I thought that the jackasses would respect the lion." After the curtain fell upon the last act, the audience sang "John Brown's Body," "We'll Hang Count Joannes to a Sour Apple Tree."
" Romeo and Juliet " was repeated Feb. 20. On the Count ap- pearing a roar of laughter greeted him. Advancing to the foot- lights, when the noise had continued for a moment, he gritted his teeth at the audience, and cried: "Will you stop.? If you don't keep still, I'll keep you still. Order shall be kept if we have to call upon the police, and you are so few to-night that we can en- force order. Why can't you be quiet.'" The only response to this query was : " Give it up ! " and renewed cat-calls. " Othello " was played Feb. 22. The attendance, which had been very large from his opening night, began to grow small on Feb. 20. "The Drunkard's Child " was acted matin6e, Feb. 23, by the company. The Count's engagement closed Feb. 25, with a benefit to Avonia Fairbanks, when " The Lady of Lyons " was performed.
An amateur performance of the Dramatic Guild occurred March 2, 1878, when "Geo. Douglas," a drama by William Minturn, an amateur and well known society man, was presented. " Gold Mad," an American drama by a young Harvard student, was produced for the first time March 4. William H. Leake, Louis F. Barrett, Elmer Warner, J. B. Ashton, Avonia Phelps, and Miss Herbert were in the cast. It was withdrawn March 7. The French dra- matic company occupied the house weeks of April i, 8. " L'Ami Fritz" was acted April 13, for the first time in America.
The house was reopened April 17, for the one night, by Edwin Lawrence, teacher of elocution, with a number of his pupils, who appeared in " Romeo and Juliet. " Mr. Lawrence played Romeo ; Rose Kean, Juliet. At one time the performance threatened to break up into a general row, d la Count Joannes, but peace was fortunately restored. It was a ridiculous performance altogether.
1879]
THE LYCEUM
475
The French company reappeared April 23, 25, 27 ; and May 9 an amateur performance, in aid of the Seaside Home for suffering children, when " Conscience " was given. In the cast were Gen- erals J. S. Owen, M. T. MacMahon, H. A. Barnum, P. H. Jones, Vickers, Col. H. C. King, Major J. Barclay Fassitt, Messrs. D. W. Gillette, De Wolf Hopper, Eugene Silvers, T. O. Crane, W. H. Harrison, Sara von Leer, and Mrs. J. W. Keanney. One of the most successful debuts on the dramatic stage which I have wit- nessed in a long time was that of Adelina Gasparini, who acted Juliet June 3. " Romeo and Juliet " was repeated June 4, 5, 8, and "The Lady of Lyons," with Miss Gasparini as Pauline, June 6, 7. J. Clinton Hall, Harry Duffield, W. Ward, J. B. Ashton, Harry Gale, Tom Owens, W. T. Dulaney, Little Dorritt (Ashton), and Mary Galyin were in the company.
J. M. Hill leased this house in August, and opened Sept. 2, 1878, with Denman Thompson as the star, in "Joshua Whitcomb," which had this cast:
Aunt Matilda . . . Mrs. D. Nourse
SherifE D. Nourse
Tot Julia Wilson
Roundy . John . . Cy Prime
Ignacio Martinetti
Eugene Jepson
Harry Wilson
Mr. Thompson closed Nov. 30. Kate Claxton assumed the management Dec. 2, when she presented " The Double Marriage, " cast thus:
Edouard Dard . . Perrin . Rambaut Lacroix . Dujardin
. . . A. Dacre . . Wm. Davidge
H. W. Montgomery Chas. A. Loveday M. W. LefBngwell
Chas. A. Stevenson
Baronesse . . Mrs. E. L. Davenport
Josephine Alice Lingard
Rose Kate Claxton
Jacintha Maggie Harold
Raynal Fred Robinson
D'Aubertin . . . . H. B. Phillips
Miss Claxton closed Jan. 4, 1879.
Charles A. Loveday died in the New York hospital, this city, April 28, 1 88 1, of hemorrhage of the brain. A few months pre- vious he had been stricken with apoplexy. " Evangeline " was seen Jan. 6, 1879, and "Pinafore," Jan. 13. Frederick Paulding made his first appearance on the stage Feb. 17 in "The Fool's Re- venge," which had this cast:
Guido Malatesta Francesca . Bertuccio . Manfredi . Del Aquilia Torrelli . .
Ordellaffi Geo. Gaston
Bernardo .... Ogden Stevens
Ascanis Miss Genevieve
Fiordelisa Laura Don
Brigita Louisa Eldridge
Ginevia Grace Logan
This bill continued throughout the first week and until Feb. 25, when Mr. Paulding played " Hamlet. " " The Lady of Lyons " was seen at the matinee March i, and "Hamlet" in the evening and
. . Frank Pierce Constance Hamblin . . Fred Paulding . Frank Mordaunt . . . O. H. Barr . . Jos. Frankau
476 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1879
for the following week (March 3), except matinee March 8, when "The Lady of Lyons" was repeated. On March 10 an opera com- pany appeared in "The Sorcerer" and "Pinafore," and continued a second week. Louise Leighton, Nellie Mortimer, Helen Corbyn, J. Graff, C. Dunham, G. Gaston, and W. Haydon Tilla were in the organization. March 24, a new comic opera, "The Mask Ball." Mr. J. H. Haverly from Chicago was the next manager of this house, and naming it "Haverly's Theatre," began a season March 31, 1879, with the Alice Oates comic opera company in "Le Petit Due," which had this cast:
Le Due Raoul La Duchess . . De Campvallier . The Governess De Navaisses Mile. De la Roche Mile De Champletre
. . Alice Oates
. Lulu Stevens
. . Ed. Horan
Agnes Halleck
C. McLaughlin
Pauline Hall
. . Ada Dow
De Montlandry . De Montchevrier
Maid of Honor .
Henri . . . .
Gerard . . . .
Frimouse . . .
Bernard . . .
. Edward Connell . . . Mills Hall Emma Duchateau Hattie Richardson . . Bessie Temple . . Jas. G. Taylor . . R. E. Graham
"Girofld Girofla" was sung April 14-18, and "Les Cloches de Corneville," April 16.
Haverly's Mastodon minstrels appeared here April 21. Haver- ly's Juvenile opera company commenced May i in "Pinafore." Their entertainments were given every day, beginning at two o'clock, except Wednesday and Saturday, when they appeared at half-past ten in the morning. On May 12 there were two "Pina- fore " companies at this house. In the afternoon a series of family matinees by the New York Children's Pinafore company was given. " Pinafore " was sung Saturdays, when their performance began at eleven in the morning. On the same evening, "Pina- fore," had this cast:
Ralph Rackstraw . . Wm. Castle Dick Deadeye . . . Henry Peakes Josephine .... Annie Montague Buttercup Laura Joyce
Sir Joseph Porter . . J. G. Taylor Capt. Corcoran . . . C. H. Turner
Hebe Adelaide Randall
Boatswain Ellis Ryse
The children appeared evenings. May 30 and June 6, also the following week. The Castle company closed June 7, and the children July 5. Haverly's colored minstrels appeared July 7.
Adele Belgarde made her first appearance on the stage Aug. 18 in "As You Like It" which she repeated throughout the week. The comedy had this cast:
Duke Frederick . . John Swinburne Banished Duke . . . J. R. Grismer
William C. W. Allison
Celia Helen Tracy
Oliver John V. Dailejr
Le Beau .... Clarence Merighi
Corin John Matthews
Phebe Mamie Sheridan
|
Rosalind . . |
. Adele Belgarde |
|
Jaques . . . |
Wm. E. Sheridan |
|
Orlando . . . |
. . . Gus Levick |
|
Adam . . . |
. Thos. E. Morris |
|
Sylvius . . . |
. . . Geo. Reed |
|
Charles . . . |
. . . T. H. Davis |
|
Audrey . . . |
Emma Skerrett |
|
Touchstone |
. . Ben Maginley |
|
Jacques Du Bois |
. . E. Tannehill |
i879]
HAVERLY'S THEATRE
477
"The Hunchback," Aug. 20, 21, Miss Belgarde as Helen; Aug. 22,' and matinee Aug. 23, "Ingomar," Miss Belgarde as Parthenia.
Clarence Merighi is now known as Clarence Montaigne.
The regular season commenced Aug. 25, with Samuel Colville's opera burlesque company in " The Magic Slipper. " The cast :
IMMORTALS.
Her Imperial Highness, Rose Leighton The Hon. Miss Harebell, Annie Deacon The Hon. Miss Honeydew
Alice Wright DafFydowndilla . . . Susie Winner
Primrosa Bessie Temple
Violetta Elsie Dean
Daisyana Louisa Loring
Cloverina May Winner
Sweetcornia .... Laura Adams
Wheatina Nita Gerald
Heartseasa Annie Winner
Roseleafa . . . Theresa Lamborn
MORTALS.
Baron Ed. Chapman
Seraph Roland Reed
Clorinda .... R. E. Graham
Thisbe Fannie Wright
Petitoe A. W. Maflin
Cinderella .... Emme Rouseau
Prince Alice Hastings
Hightoni Ella Chapman
Penotype Ada Lee
Swagger .... Carrie McHenry Huntsmen
H. Amberg, Horace, Frail, etc.
Jesse Williams was musical director. The Criterion comedy company, under the management of F. F. Mackay and J. Gosche, opened Sept. 15 in " Our Daughter," produced for the first time on the American stage. The cast :
Jacob Van Dale Alfred . . . Edward . . Peter . . . Phillip . . . William Knabe
F. F. Mackay T. F. Egbert W. A. Whitecar J. Ogden A. H. Canby De Wolf Hopper
Katrina .... Virginia Newbold
Rose Louise Sylvester
Emily Emma Fellman
Fanny Helen Gardner
Ann Mary Davenport
Margaret Mattie Earle
A. H. Canby has retired from the duties of the actor, and is now a business manager.
T. F. Egbert died at Lockport, N. Y., June 20, 1888. His right name was Egbert Fairchild Ten Eyck.
This company remained three weeks, and was followed Oct. 6, for four weeks, by N. C. Goodwin's Froliques in "Hobbies."
" The Tourists in a Pullman Car " commenced Nov. 3. The cast:
T. Henry Slum . Wm. A. Mestayer The Conductor .... Aug. Bruno
Miss Baby Rosa Cooke French Valet I. N. Long
Isabella Ethel Lynton Porter Will H. Bray
Pamelia .... Jennie ReifEarth Sir Henry Jas. Barton
Marie May Livingston
"The Octoroon, or Life in Louisiana," was rendered Nov. 17, and continued two weeks. The cast :
478 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisso
Jacob McCloskey . . Frank Losee Capt. Ratts Sid Hicks
Dora Sunnyside . . . Rena Maeder Col. Poindexter .... Jas. Boyd
Salem Scudder . . . J. N. Gotthold Judge Drew Morton
Uncle Pete . . . L. R. Stockwell Zoe Florence Elmore
Wah-no-tee . . . . H. S. Duffield Mrs. Peyton .... Sarah Baker
Paul Madge Butler Dido Nettie Hamer
Geo. Peyton .... Chas. Mason Grace Ella Williams
Sunnyside .... J. E. Kirkwood Minnie Maggie Peterson
J. Newton Gotthold died at Sewickly, Pa., Sept. 12, 1888. He made his first regular appearance on the American stage March 25, 1866, at the Winter Garden Theatre, this city, as Othello. Al- though an American, who had appeared previous to this as an amateur, his professional experience was gained in England. His full name was Isaac Newton Gotthold.
Bartley Campbell's play, "The Galley Slave," had its first pro- duction in New York Dec. i. The cast :
Cicely Blaine Francesca . Phoebe Gray Wellesley . Psyche . . Nichette Carot . .
Maud Granger . Signora Majeroni Mrs. M. B. Snyder . J. G. Henderson . Estelle Mortimer . Charlotte Neville
Chas. Webster
Phillipe . . . . H. W. Montgomery
Dolores Little Georgie
Sidney Frank Evans
Baron J. J. Sullivan
Fitts T. H. Burns
Oliver C. A. McManus
Sentinel Denny
This play was originally produced at the Chestnut Street Theatre, Philadelphia, at the opening of the season of 1879-80. First produced in England at Hull, Nov. 22, 1880; first acted at London, Feb. 8, 1886, at the Grand Theatre.
Charles A. McManus was found dead in bed, Dec. 11, 1888, at Big Rapids, Mich. He was with the Mile. Rhea travelling dra- matic company. He had played the previous night. He died of apoplexy.
" The Tourists in a Pullman Car " returned. They commenced Jan. 5, 1880, and remained for six weeks. A matinde Jan. 29 was given in aid of the family of Henry C. Mount, fireman, who was killed in the discharge of his duty. The entertainment was "The Galley Slave " (second act), " The Tourists " (second act), and " Fairfax " (third act). John A. Stevens, supported by Lottie Church, appeared here Feb. 9, in "Unknown."
Salsbury's Troubadours appeared here Feb. 23, in "The Brook, or a Jolly Day at the Picnic," which had this cast:
Percy John Webster
Rose Nellie McHenry
Tracy Thornton ... N. Salsbury
Festus John Gourlay
Blanche Helen Dingeon
It was preceded by the sketch called "Cross Purposes." Neil Burgess was seen here March 15, and continued for seven weeks, with "Widow Bedott," which had this cast:
i88o3
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479
Widow Bedott Tim Crane Dotty Sniffles Widow Jenkins Tom Follet .
. Neil Burgess . . Harry Rich Mary Taylor . . Nelly Peck E. D. Tannehill
Mr. Harriman Elder Shadrack Fred Harriman Melissa Bedott
. . W. H. Meeker . . Geo. Stoddart . Chas. S. Dickson Mrs. Geo. Stoddart
Professor Herrmann, magician, began an engagement here May 3, with a combination, among whom were the Onofri Brothers — Achille, Charles, Fortune, and Oreste — grotesque dancers (Ameri- can debut) — Val Vose, ventriloquist, and the Loral las. They closed June 2, and " The Jolly Mariners " appeared June 3, for two weeks in "Trifles." This was their American debut. June 14, " Our Goblins, or Fun on the Rhine " was offered. The party consisted of William Gill, Francis Wilson, Aug. Bruno, Eleanor Deering, and Amy Gordon.
A comic opera company was billed to open July 12, in "The Bells of Normandy," but the house was closed until July 26, when "The Stewarts," a family from Australia, made their American debut in "Rainbow Revels." They consisted of Nellie, Maggie, Docy, and their father, Richard Stewart.
The next season commenced Aug. 9, with " Fun on the Bristol, or a Night on the Sound," which had this cast:
Mrs. O'Brien . . . John F. Sheridan Captain Cranberry . . Henry Saville Tom Cranberry . . Frank Tannehill Count Menaggio . . . Mark Smith Pinkerton Hawkshaw . Geo. Topack
Jerry Thompson . William Courtright
Dora Kate Castleton
Norah Agnes Halleck
Bella Marion Fiske
Dick Sparks .... Myron Calice
"Evangeline" reappeared Aug. 30, and remained for two weeks :
Evangeline . . Capt. Dietrich Lone Fisherman Hellosqueezer . Gabriel . . . Catherine . .
Vernona Jarbeau J. W. Ransone . Harry Hunter . Horace Frail . Louise Searle Geo. Fortescue
Eulalie Rose Dana
Felician Jennie Calef
Le Blanc .... Edwin Chapman
Bazil Max Figman
Hans Wagner . . . Pauline Hall Peter Papyrus . . . Chas. Groves
This was the American ddbut of Charles Groves. After having been in London, Eng., for several years, he reappeared in America during the season of 1886-87, ^s the comedian of Wallack's Theatre in this city.
Harry Hunter died of pneumonia in the hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio, Feb. 15, 1 88 1. His name was Charles Harrison Hunter. He was not the original Lone Fisherman, as has been frequently stated. Jacob W. Thoman originated that part. James S. Maffitt subse- quently played it. Hunter came next. He first acted it Nov. 13, 1876, at Philadelphia, and continued to play it for nearly four years.
480 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1881
M. B. Leavitt's English burlesque company made its American debut Sept. 13, in "Carmen, or Soldiers and Sevillians," which had this cast :
Carmen Selina Dolaro
Don Jos6 .... Marie Williams Zuniga .... Fanny Wentworth
Morales Daisy Ramsden
Pasquillo Alma Stanley
Fernandez .... Minnie Marshall
Juan Camilla d'Elmar
Michaela Mat Robson
Juanita . .
Camilla . .
Frasquita .
Mercedes . A Mad Bull
Escamillo .
Gomez . .
. Adelaide Praeger
. . Laurie Trevor
. . Minnie Leigh
Florence Beaufort
Toner and Lynch
. James A. Meade
Lizzie MulhoUand
On Oct. 4, "La Fille du Tambour Major," was sung for the first time in America in English, and had this cast :
Stella . . Griolet . . Claudine La Duchess Lorenzo . . Violetta Clampus Gregario The Abbess
. Selina Dolaro
Marie Williams
Fanny Wentworth
. Alma Stanley
. Alii 011yett€
Daisy Ramsden
Frank Hines
. H. C. Spiller
Adelaide Praeger
Henri Camille d'Elmar
Blancy Minnie Marshall
Gabriel Laurie Trevor
Raoul Louise Leighton
Monthabor .... James A. Meade Capt. Robert .... Lewis Finke Delia Volta .... Mat Robson
Marquis J. W. Bradbury
Sergeant C. W. Percivi
The Dudley Buck opera company appeared here Oct. Ii, 'Deseret," first performance on any stage. It had this cast:
m
Rosamond Julia Polk
Arabella Belle Cole
Sally Kate French
Major Clemm C. F. Lang
Elder Scram J. Evarde
Setting Hen . . Corporal Riley . Lieut. Montgomery Joseph Jessup
. E. F. Eberle . H. A. Stuart . W. D. Marks W. G. Cogswell
Rice's " Surprise Party " appeared here Oct. 25 in Dexter Smith's "Revels, or Bon Ton George, Jr." Topsy Venn, Marion Elmore, Lena Merville, Vic Reynolds, Carrie Perkins, Emma Burgess, John Gourlay, May Livingston, Henry Dixey, John A. Mackay, Geo. W. Howard, and many others were in the company. "Prince Achmet," a burlesque, was played on Nov. 29. "Hiawatha, a Long Song of the Longfellow," by the Surprise Party, was pre- sented Dec. 13. "Babes in the Wood," Dec. 27. Jan. 3, 1881, Salsbury's Troubadours reappeared in "The Brook," and stayed for a fortnight. Then came "Widow Bedott," Jan. 17, with Charles B. Bishop as the Widow.
"The Galley Slave" was revived Jan. 31, and stayed three weeks.
N. C. Goodwin returned here Feb. 21, in "Hobbies ":
Prof. Pygmalion Minnie Clover Euphemia . .
N. C. Goodwin . Daisy Ramsden Jennie Weathersby
Constance Elraa Delaro
Garroway Chas. Bowser
Arthur Frank E. Lamb
1880
HAVERLY'S THEATRE
481
On March 9, for the first time in this country, "The Mari- onettes " was presented, with Will S. Harkins as Capt. Wilfred, De Loss King as Burke, Mme. Ivan Michaels as Seraphine, and Effie Vaughn as Georgiana. Haverly's Mastodon minstrels, hav- ing returned from their European tour, opened March 14. Billy Rice, Sam Devere, Billy Emerson, and J. W. McAndrews were in the company. March 28 " Our Goblins " came.
Hartley Campbell's "My Partner" was presented here April 11, with this cast :
Mary Brandon . . Dora Goldthwaite
Posie Pentland . . . Louisa Morse
Matthew Brandon . . . J. F. Deane
Sam Bowler . . . Walter Lennox
Wellington . . Chas. A. Sturgess
Grace' Brandon . . . Lizzie Goode
Joe Saunders . Ned Singleton Major Britt . Josiah Scraggs Jim .... Wing Lee . .
. Louis Aldrich . . O. H. Barr Frank Mordaunt . J. W. Hague N. O. Reynolds Chas. T. Parsloe
"Fun on the Bristol" followed April 18, for two weeks. May 2 and 9 Mr. and Mrs. Geo. S. Knight were seen in " Otto, a Ger- man;" May 16, M. B. Curtis came in "Sam'l of Posen." Mr. Curtis continued until Aug. 6, when the season closed. The cast of " Sam'l of Posen " was :
Sam Flastrick Winslow . . Frank Kilday . Jack Cheviot . West Point . Con Quinn Uncle Goldstein
. M. B. Curtis
Welsh Edwards
Frank Losee
Nelson Decker
. . Ed Marble
. Chas. Rosene
Folliot Footlight . . Walter Eytinge
Fitzurse Gerald Elmar
Celeste Albina de Mer
Rebecca Gertie Granville
Ellen Carrie Wyatt
Mrs. Mulcahey . . . Fanny Rouse
Albina de Mer was Mrs. M. B. Curtis, and Gertie Granville was afterwards Mrs. Tony Hart.
The next season began Aug. 15, 1881, with "The Strategists," which had this cast:
Jack Rutledge Abijah . . . John Mildman Capsicano . . Nellie Howard
. J. B. Polk Harry Linden A. H. Canby . Harry Bell Katie Gilbert
Araminta ..... Lizzie Hight Arthur Rutledge . . Frank E. Aiken Sergt. Gumbleton . . L. F. Howard Mrs. Major Howard . Marie Bates Terrence O'Flam . . Sam E. Ryan
Harry Linden died in this city, Sept. 27, 1887, from injuries received from a fall. His first New York appearance was at the Old Bowery Theatre in February, i860, in "The Terror of the Road." Sam Ryan died in this city, Nov. 15, 1891. Jennie Lee reappeared in America, after an absence of many years, Aug. 29, in "Jo," an adaptation from Dickens' "Bleak House." It had this cast: VOL. 11.-31
482 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dssi
Sir Leicester Tulkinghorn Snagsby Chadband . Guppy . . The Coroner Beadle . . Lady Dedlock
. . James Carhart . . J. A. HoweU . . E. L. Walton . Thos. E. Jackson . F. M. Hendrick . . J. E. Dodson . . T. F. McCabe Constance Murielle
Mrs. Rouncewell . . Ada Wright
Bucket J. P- Burnett
Esther Ethel Grey
Rosa Josie Langley
Mrs. Snagsby . . . Mrs. E. M. Post
Hortense Isabel Morris
Jo Jennie Lee
Oliver Doud Byron came Sept. 12 in "Across the Continent," followed, Sept. 19, by Mr. and Mrs. McKee Rankin, who pro- duced for the first time in America G. W. Wills' resetting of Douglas Jerrold's "William and Susan," which had this cast:
William Bowling . . McKee Rankin Dame Green . Mrs. F. A. Tannehill Master at Arms . . . W. B. Murray
An Old Man Tom Leigh
Susan .... Mrs. McKee Rankin Polly .... Lizzie May Ulmer The Admiral .... J. J. Holland
The theatre was closed Tuesday evening, Sept. 20, in conse- quence of the death of President Garfield ; also Monday evening, Sept. 26, the day of the funeral.
The new American play, "'49," had its first representation on any stage Oct. i. It had this cast:
|
Capt. Crosstree . |
. . J. H. Barnes |
|
Lieut. Pierce . . |
. . William Lee |
|
Slater .... |
. . Archie Boyd |
|
White .... |
. . . Geo. Ulmer |
|
Truck .... |
. . Cyril Searle |
|
Robert .... |
. . Luke Martin |
" 49 " McKee Rankin
Tom Bradshaw . . . J. J. Sullivan Soloman Kane .... E. Lamb
Bedrock Wm. Lee
Carrots . . . Mrs. McKee Rankin
Belle Lizzie May Ulmer
Colonel James . . . Geo. Ulmer
Mississippi Arthur Dennison Anthony Cousins Old Ned . . . Col. Broadstreet . Mrs. Dennison
Mrs. Wallace Brittan J. H. Barnes Luke Martin Archibald Boyd . J. J. Holland . Emma Marble
"Our Strategists" returned Oct. 17 and played two weeks. Haverly's Mastodon minstrels followed Oct. 31. "Deacon Cran- kett " was seen Nov. 7.
Deacon Crankett . . Benj. Maginley
Elinor Loduski Young
Mrs. Deacon Crankett . Annie Ware Joe Thatcher .... Jas. O'Neil
Egbert Gray Heatherton Polly . . Mazel . .
. E. J. Buckley
. Harry Ey tinge
Blanche Vaughan
T. F. Brennan
" Fun on the Bristol," with John F. Sheridan as the Widow, came Nov. 28, followed Dec. 5 by J. K. Emmet in " Fritz in Ireland." He continued with this play for three weeks and crowded the house at every performance. The gross receipts were a trifle over ^30,000, and it was undoubtedly the largest amount of money ever played to by any dramatic star in the same length of time at the prices pre-
i88a2
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483
vailing. Frank S. Chanfrau appeared Dec. 26 in " Kit, ihe Arkansas Traveler " which had this cast :
Kit Redding . Manuel Bond . Wash Stubbs . Lord Fitzfolie . James Temple Judge Suggs . Burt . . . . Jerry . . .
F. S. Chanfrau . O. H. Barr S. H. Verney Louis Atkins H. Mackeery F. M. Wills J. H. Alliger
Arthur Moulton
Cassar D. C. Longworth
Barkeeper J. Harris
Major Squiggs . . . Harry Barfoot Mrs. Temple . . . Victoria Cameron Capt. Wheeler . Clarence Heritage
Alice Regina Dace
Mrs. Stubbs . . . Ernestine Floyd Frau Pedders . . . W. B. Alexander
Louis Atkins died at Boston, Mass., April 3, 1886.
Mr. Chanfrau continued a second week. Mrs. F. S. Chanfrau acted in " East Lynne," matin6es Jan. 4-7, 1882. "The Tourists in a Pullman jCar " returned Jan. 9, for two weeks ; " All the Rage " was presented Jan. 23 with this cast :
Dr. Goodwin . De Witt Briggs Horatio Braney Chas. Granger Mrs. Goodwin De Clinton Briggs
Frank Hardenbergh . Wm. Davidge . J. C. Padgett Geo. N. Dalton Annie Douglas . S. P. Norman
Will Goodwin . . . A. Z. Chipman
Julie Lizzette EUani
Cleopatra .... Blanche Moulton
Sophromia Meta Bartlett
Annie Helen Coe
Gilbert and Sullivan's " Patience " was sung the week commenc- ing Feb. 6, with this cast :
Bunthorne . Grosvenor . Caverley . Patience Murgatroyd
W. H. Seymour . .CM. Pyke Lithgow James Emma Howson Richard Golden
Duke of Dunstable Lady Saphir . . Lady Jane . . . Lady Angela . .
. Alonzo Hatch
. Pauline Hall
Gertrude Orme
Louise Manfred
"Patience" was continued Feb. 13, 14, and 15, and "The Mascot " was presented Feb. 16 with this cast :
Bettina Emma Howson
Lorenzo . . . . L W. Norcross, Jr.
Frederic Alonzo Hatch
Rocco Richard Golden
Pippo J. T. Dalton
Parafante .... Wm. Redstone
Matheo Daniel Packard
Fiametta Pauline Hall
Angelo Annie Caldwell
Luidgi Emma Emerson
Marco Albertina Hall
Paola Hattie Delaro
Beppo Agnes Earle
Antonio Saide Verona
Paris Nellie Franklin
Rolla .... Eugene St. Aubyn
M. B. Curtis returned Feb. 20, in " Sam '1 of Posen." On March 13 he gave a matinee for the benefit of the Actors' Fund. His en- gagement terminated March 18. Haverly's Mastodon minstrels be- gan March 20 for two weeks.
" The White Slave," by Bartley Campbell, was first represented on any stage April 3 and had this cast :
484 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1882
Lisa Georgia Cayvan
Daphne Emmie Wilmot
Nance Etelka Wardell
Letty Frances Kemble
Martha Marie Bates
Clay Gus Levick
William Frank Roberts
Count Strain Jay Hunt
Job W. J. Scallan
Stitch M. C. Daly
Clem Chas. Webster
Jack De Vernon
Bancroft D. E. Ralton
Capt. Stryker - . . . . G. L. Kean
Natchez Scott Davis
Jamison W. H. Smith
Mrs. Lee . . . Mrs. G. C. Germon Little Jim . . . Master La Forrest Judge Hardin . . . Welsh Edwards
"The Professor" was presented May 8, with W. H. Gillette as Arthur, Nellie Taylor as Mrs. Elliott, Belle Jackson as Daisy Brown, Nellie Morant as Estelle, Harry Allen as Thomkins, Charles W. Butler as Gustavus, Charles W. Stokes as Moses, Ramsey Morris as Fred Bangs, Blanche Weaver as Minnie and Helen Ottolengui as Molly.
" Old Shipmates," with Frank Mordaunt as the star, was played here May 22, Mordaunt as Capt. Weathergauge, Georgia Cayvan as Little Hattie, Mrs. J. H. Rowe (Georgie Dickson), and Louise Dillon, Chas. B. Waite, and Frank Gilsey also in the cast. Gus Williams produced " One of the Finest," for the first time in New York, June 19, and with this cast :
John Mishler Eastman Officer . . Ruth . . . Katie . . Mrs. Mishler Edgar . .
. Gus Williams
Nelson Decker
Albert Paul
Isabel Waldron
. Rachel Booth
Dora Stuart
. . E. S. Tarr
Robert . . . Hugh Hickman Miss Livingston Fred Eastman Superintendent Miss Van Buren
Frank Rose Newton Gotthold . Jennie Harold . Sidney Drew . Harry Linden . Kate Durand
Mr. Williams continued with this play until Aug. 5, when the season closed. Dora Stuart died in this city Aug. 17, 1887. When sixteen she was married to Col. Charles Dreher, who is said to have been the first Confederate soldier to shed blood in the cause of the South. Afterwards he was killed in battle. Her second husband was Captain Bradford, a paymaster in the army.
The regular season commenced Aug. 21, with "Ranch 10," which stayed for two weeks. It had this cast :
Al. McClelland 7 « »^ j.^, Tom McClelland i " Harry Meredith
Theopolis T. M. Hunter
Peter Sid Smith
Pat Andrew Jackson
Lucretia .... Annie Douglas
Annie Emma Vaders
Silver Bud Marie Acosta
Marie Acosta has since been known as Marion d'Arcy. " Chispa " was produced Sept. 4, with Marion Elmore as the star. It had this cast :
1883]
HAVERLY'S THEATRE
485
Zeke Stephens Downey . . . Chispa . . . Doc. Jones . . Pike .... Chispa, in prologue
Frank Losee
W. W. Griffiths
Marion Elmore
Wash. Melville
. Jas. C. Dunn
Fanny Gonzales
Indian Jack .... Geo. Osborne Fairfax .... Randolph Murray
John Chas. James
Mary Annie Leigh
Sarah Kate Fletcher
Florence Lena Merville
Marion Elmore is Mrs. Frank Losee, and the sister of Lena Mer- ville. Minnie Palmer appeared here Sept. 18, in " My Sweetheart," with this cast :
Tony R. E. Graham Joe Shotwell . . . . T. J. Hawkins
Dr. Oliver John P. Sutton Farmer Hatzell .... Geo. Foos
Harold L. Marston Mrs. Hatzell .... Louise Morse
Dudley L . R. Willard Tina Minnie Palmer
Mrs. Fleeter . . . Maggie Arlington
Maggie Arlington died of pneumonia in this city Oct. 30, 1887.
Sam Hague's English minstrels opened their second visit to this country Sept. 25.
The Norcross Opera company produced "The Merry War" in English the weeks of Oct. 2-9, thus cast :
Artemesia .... Jennie Reiffarth
Umberto Lithgow James
Balthazar Max Freeman
Violetta Amy Gordon
Marquis W. H. Fitzgerald
M. Loe acted Balthazar the second week, also Chas. J. Ross as Fortunato, A. Bloomingdale as Von Sheelen ; and Edward Faxton was the Bif5S.
" Only a Farmer's Daughter" was seen weeks of Oct. 16-23, with this cast :
Lizzie Stark ) a n j
Mile. Laurent J • • Agnes Herndon
Justine Lillian Spencer
Mother Stark . . . Addie Wallace Higgins .... Joseph Adelman Keeper James Thornton
Molly .... Little Minnie Lenox Harold Edward Wodiska
PMipl • • • • Geo. W.Smith
Sammy Alfred Klein
Nelly Mamie Gllroy
Louis Aldrich and C. T. Parsloe, Jr., came Oct. 30 for two weeks, with " My Partner."
"The Black Crook" was presented Nov. 13, for a stay of three weeks. The specialists were the Garnella Bros., gymnasts ; Duncan, ventriloquist ; and the Martens Family, Tyrolean warblers. Will A. Sands was the Rudolphe; Welsh Edwards, Puffengruntz ; Nellie Larkelle, Stalacta; James F. Peters, Hertzog; Wm.F. Wallis, Count Wolfenstein ; and Arthur Moulton, Greppo.
M. B. Curtis played " Sam'l of Posen "for two weeks commencing Dec. 4, followed by Denman Thompson in " Joshua Whitcomb " Dec. 18, for a fortnight. J. K. Emmet opened Jan. i, 1883, in
486 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D883
" Fritz Among the Gypsies," for six weeks. " Her Atonement " came Feb. 12, for two weeks. This was its first performance in New York. It had this cast :
Martha Emily Rigl
Little Rose . . . Linda Da Costa
Louis Felix Morris
Mr. Phillips Wm. Dell
Mrs. Morton . . . Mrs. Chas. Poole
John Doolittle ... M. J. Jordan James Martin . M. W. Leffingwell, Jr.
Col. Swift L. R. Shewell
Chas. Le Roy Barton Hill
Patrick M. J. Gallagher
was:
Siberia " was presented Feb. 26, and ran for five weeks ; the cast
Sara Georgia Cayvan
Marie .... Blanche Mortimer
Vera Mary Mills
Nicolia Gus Levick
JaracofE Geo. Hoey
Bertrand Max Freeman
Ivan W. S. Harkins
Peter W. H. Lytell
Sparta Geo. Thompson
The Governor .... Frank Foster
" The Planter's Wife " was seen April 2, for two weeks, with Harry Lacy and Maud Granger in the leading rdles.
" Around the World in Eighty Days " came April 16. The Madi- son Square Theatre company acted " The Professor " for two weeks, beginning April 30. Haverly's Mastodon minstrels appeared May 14, and were followed, May 28, by Roland Reed, in "Cheek" by Fred Marsden, which had this cast :
Dick Smyth . Walt Alton ? Moses ) ■
Walter Sandford Ray Sandford . Albert Sandford
. Roland Reed
. Oliver Jenkins
Welsh Edwards
. Frank Foster
Frank Losee
Jas. Atwell Jane Atwell Policeman . Neil . . . Mrs. Rackett
H. Rees Davies Annie Mortimer . T. A. McCart Blanche Vaughan . Alice Hastings
C. B. Bishop was seen here June 25, in " Strictly Business," and remained two weeks. Rice's Surprise Party came July 9, in " Pop." In the company were Irene Perry, D. Gorman, May Stembler, Albert Murdoch, Lilly Grubb, Geo. K. Fortescue, R. E. Graham, H. L. Bartleman, Ella Vanderbilt, John A. Mackay, and Marie Vanoni. They continued another week, and the season closed July 21, the building inspectors having ordered the erection of a proscenium wall.
The next season began Aug. 18, 1883, with Samuel Colville as lessee and manager. The first attraction was " The Devil's Auction," which stayed for two weeks. It had this cast :
Toby . . Barberouse . Carlos . . Going Gone Pfere Andoche
. . Jas. S. Maffitt
Dor^ Davidson
. . A. W. Decker
. . Chas. C. Fish
W. H. Bartholomew
M&re Cazotte . . . Nellie Heywood
Madeline Annie Barclay
Janet Sallie Apt
Nanine Ella Sheldon
1884]
HAVERLY'S THEATRE
487
Frank Majilton made his reappearance in America after several years' absence, Sept. 3, with an English comedy company (few exceptions), in " The Frolics of a Day," which had this cast :
Bartle Burke . . Gabriel Gadforth. Mile. Salprunelle. Mrs. Gadforth . Georgiana Gewgaw, Mary Chattertoa .
Thomas Lisbourne . Herbert Gresham . . Fanny Temple . . Anneta Harris Ernestine Arnnam . Caroline Majilton
Denby . . Gewgaw Eripps . . Cabman . . Policeman . Bertie Kelvin
. Ed. Chapman
. Geo. E. James
. R. M. Roberts
John Lisbourne
Frank Majilton
Ettie Whyte
George Edgar appeared here Sept. 10, in " Othello " which was repeated Sept. 11, 15 ; " Richelieu" was given matinee and evening Sept. 12, 13, 14, matinde and evening Sept. 15. The cast of " Othello "
was:
Othello . .
Brabantio . Gratiano
lago . . . Desdemona
Emilia . .
. . Geo. Edgar . L. H. Everett . E. A. Horton Lewis Morrison EUie Wilton Mrs. Wallace Brittan
|
Messenger . |
. . . . E. Stevens |
|
Lndovico . |
. . . C. J. Birbeck |
|
Cassio . . |
. Leonard S. Outram |
|
Roderigo . |
. Wm. Davidge, Jr. |
|
Montano |
. . Geoffrey Hawley |
" Romany Rye " was seen Sept. 17, with James M. Hardie as Jack Hearn, and Gussie De Forrest as Gertie Heckett.
"Her Atonement" was played Sept. 24. Fanny Davenport appeared here Oct. i, with "Fedora," for the first time on the American stage. It had this cast :
Loris . . . Pierre . . M. Vernet . Dr. Loreck Gretch . . Tchiliff Countess Dimitri . . Jean de Sirieox Mme. de Tournay
. . R. B. Mantell . . S. C. Dubois . . A. Del Campo . Louis R. Grissel
Eugene O. Jepson . . T. J. Herndon . . . Ada Monck . . Lucy Pixley
Eugene McDowell . . Marie Sheldon
Fedora . . Desire . . Cyrille . . Ivan . . . Dr. Mueller Zuric . . - Mons Ditche Baroness . Marka . .
Fanny Davenport
Edward Warren
. W. J. Hurley
L. S. Anderson
. James Miller
O. W. Dunn
. H. Williams
Helen Bertram
Annie White
No matinee was given on Wednesday during this engagement, but on Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 29) a matinee took place. " Fedora " was followed, Dec. 24, by Rice's Surprise Party in "Pop" for one week, and Dec. 31 John T. Raymond was seen, in "In Paradise." Mr. Raymond appeared Jan. 10, 1884, in "For Congress," which had this cast :
Josiah Limber . Jemima Grimm Julia Free . . Peter WooUey Horace Dexter Anna Molley .
JohnT. Raymond . Lizzie Creese Nannie Egberts Wm. CuUington Geo. F. Devere . Sadie Bigelow
Susan Muffin . . Mrs. G. F.Devere (Nellie Mortimer)
Charley Harry Pierson
Alfred John Marble
Merpail Jerry Lant
Pelham .... H. A. Weaver, Jr.
488 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1884
J. K. Emmet appeared Jan. 2 1, for the first time in New York in " Unser Fritz, the Bohemian." " Fritz in Ireland " was played Feb. 4; John T. Raymond returned Feb. 11, in "For Congress." Callender's Colored minstrels, headed by the Hyers Sisters, came Feb. 18. Mr. and Mrs. Nat Goodwin appeared Feb. 25 in "Those Bells;" and for the first time in this city "Warranted" was given with this cast:
Edward Seabrooke . . Wm. Herbert Emie Weathersby . Jennie ReifEarth . . Bart Wallace
Groot . Joshua . Vinnie . Geranium Mike
Ananius N. C. Goodwin
Bertha . . . Mrs. N. C. Goodwin
Jack Robert Coote
Trix Jennie Weathersby
Orlando .... Jacques Kruger
For the week commencing March 3, in addition to " Those Bells," G. R. Sims' comedy, " Member for Slocum " was given. " Hobbies" was done March 10, with Mr. Goodwin as Pygmalion, Mrs. Goodwin as Clover, and William Herbert as Garroway. "Confusion" came March 17, with Kate Davis as Lucretia and H. E. Dixey as Christo- pher Blizzard.
Edwin Booth began an engagement here March 24. His repertory was : March 24, 27, matinde March 29, April i, matinees April 2, S, "Hamlet;" March 25, "The Fool's Revenge;" March 26, " Othello," Booth as lago, D. H. Harkins as Othello ; March 28, " The Merchant of Venice " and " Taming of the Shrew; " March 31, " Richelieu ; " April 3, " Macbeth ; " April 4, " King Lear." The scale of prices were : Reserved seats, $2, ;^i.50, $1 ; gallery, 50 cts. ; general admission, $1. In " Hamlet" Eben Plympton acted Laertes; John A. Lane, the King; Affie Weaver, Ophelia; and Ida Vernon, the Queen. " The Pavements of Paris " came April 7, with John B. Studley as Bonneau, Minnie Monck as Mme. Peronne, J. E. Nagle as Fusch, and Florence Wood as the Housekeeper. Byron Douglas, T. F. Egbert, Ed. Chapman, Harry Mack, and Emily Bancker were also in the cast.
Milton Nobles appeared April 21, for two weeks, in "Love and Law," with O. H. Barr as Gasper, G. W. Barnum as Giovanni, Dollie Nobles as Ritta, Agnes Herndon as Helen, and Milton Nobles as Felix. Jennie Satterlee, Jennie Carroll, M. Leffingwell, Ben G. Rogers, Henry Rainforth, and Florence Vincent were also in the cast. Barry and Fay came here May 5, in " Irish Aristocracy."
" The Wages of Sin," by Frank Harvey, was given for the first time in America, under that title. May 12. The cast was :
Eben Plympton
Gilbert Elliott
. Hudson Listen
George Brand Harry Went worth Ned Drummond . Stephen Marler . Jemima Bloggs
Charles Overton Julia Brutone
Juliana . . Georgie Drew Barrymore Jenny Barford . . Edith Florence
Darby Blunt .... Robert Dillon
Judson Lover
Josiah Dean ... C. P. Flockton
Ruth Agnes Booth
Rose . . . Mrs. Charles Maubury Barbara Dale .... Elsie Moore Anna Grace Follard
18841]
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489
This play had previously been acted in this country a few times under the title of " Truth."
The burlesque, " Penny Ante," came here for two weeks, com- mencing June 9. This was the cast :
Cleopatra .... Jennie ReifEarth Penny Ante . . . Chas. H. Drew Fairy Queen .... Carrie Godfrey Melinda Louise Searle
Bonifacio .... James Sturgess
Simon Ainsley Scott
Francis .... Fred W. Oakland
Lilly H indie Harrison
Jenny Carrie Wallace
This was the American d^but of Fred Oakland. The season ended June 21, and the house was closed until July 21, when it was leased for two weeks for the production of " Distrust," by C. F. Dunbar and Fred Wren. EUie Wilton, Henry Aveling, Horace Vinton, Oliver Wren and Francis Bates were in the cast. The house closed Aug. 2, and reopened Aug. 16 with Chas. Hoyt's " A Rag Baby," Frank Daniels as Old Sport, Chas. H. Drew as Tony Jay, and Mark Sullivan as the Policeman. H. Connors, E. A. Osgood, W. H. Stedman, Bessie Sansom, Rillie Deaves, Clara Lane and Tina Jackson were also in the cast. Eugene O. Jepson, as the star, appeared Sept. i in Walter Standish's play, " Fickle Fortune." Lizzie May Ulmer was seen here Sept. 8 in " Dad's Girl."
The next regular season commenced Wednesday, Sept. 17, with Mme. Janauschek in Harry Meredith's new play " My Life," which had this cast :
Mico Leben
Circe Encore Frederick . Lady Florence
\-
. . Janauschek
Geo. D. Chaplin Virginia Nelson
Silvia Emma Hagger
Henri Frank Clements
Landers Geo. Connor
Arthur Henry Bergman
Lionel Alex. Stuart
Frank Clements was instantly killed at Newark, N. J., May 8, 1886, by being run over by a locomotive. He was at the time a member of Mme. Modjeska's company. His American d6but was made Sept. 16, 1878, at the Arch Street theatre, Philadelphia, as Armand to Modjeska's Camille. His New York debut occurred Sept. 30 following, at the Fifth Avenue Theatre (Broadway and Twenty-eighth Street).
Janauschek closed, in " My Life," Oct. 4.
Minnie Palmer reappeared Oct. 6, 1884, in " My Sweetheart."
Fanny Davenport returned Nov. 10, in "Fedora," with Henry Lee as leading man. She played for five weeks.
Louise Pomeroy appeared here Dec. 1 5, in " The Outcast," cast thus :
Mother Mason . Elizabeth Andrews Little Raynaud . . Gertie Boswell Due de Velasquez . . Arthur Elliott Margaret .... Louise Pomeroy Athole Louisa Balfe
Marquis . . . Mrs. Chas. Poole Dr. Valrois . . . Wm. N. Griffith Duchess .... Emilie Boswell Raymond Edwin Cleary
490 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cisss
The Leopold Brothers (six) commenced Dec. 22, in an absurdity called " Frivolity." Prof. Cromwell appeared on Sunday night, Dec. 28, with his art entertainment, and again on Jan. 4. Barney McAuley commenced Dec. 29 in " The Jersey Man." The house was closed week commencing Jan. 5, 1885. Mr. Colville stated in a card to the public that he was obliged to close in consequence of the bad behavior of Mr. McAuley, who withdrew from the cast matinee Jan. i, and his place was filled by one of the company. The piece was played to poor business during the week, and it became evident to Manager Colville that Mr. McAuley could not be relied on to finish his date, so the remaining week was cancelled. " The Jersey Man " had this cast :
Gilderoy Punk . .
Gideon
John Gripp . . . Archibald Goslyn Warren Meredith Capt. Bob Mayberry
B. McAuley W. C. Andrews E. S. Goodwin . H. T. Gibson . A. J. Thacher . D. Gilf ether
Simon Peter . . - J. J. Fitzsimmons
Joan Fell Wealthy AUyn
Tabitha Mayberry, Mrs. Owen Marlowe
Mr. Taggit L. Turner
Dot Lillian Chantore
"Chubb" Jessie West
Prof. Cromwell gave another entertainment Jan. 11. " The Wages of Sin" was acted for a fortnight, commencing Jan. 12, with Agnes Booth as Ruth.
" A Cold Day When We Get Left" was done Jan. 26. Cromwell lectured Sunday night, Feb. i. The Carleton English opera com- pany were seen here Feb. 2, in "The Drum Major's Daughter" ("La Fille du Tambour Major"), which had this cast:
Duchess Clara Wisdom Stella Dora Wiley
Claudine Rose Beaudet Monthabor . . . . W. H. Clarke
The Abbess .... Miss Bartlett Due Volta .... Richard Golden
Biancia Miss Young Marquis Frank Doud
Lorenza Miss Pettitt Clumpus F. Risdale
Sergeant Dixon Captain Robert . . W. T. Carleton
Griolet . . . Jessie Bartlett Davis
Cromwell gave " Ireland " for his lecture Feb 8. " The Mascot" was sung Feb. 9, with Dora Wiley as Bettina, Rose Beaudet as Fiametta, Jessie Bartlett Davis (first time) as Prince Frederic, and Carleton as Pippo. Cromwell gave " Jerusalem and the Holy Land," Sunday Feb. 15. "The Mascot" was repeated week Feb. 16, except Feb. 20, when Carleton took a benefit, and the programme was "Fra Diavolo " (first act), "The Drum Major's Daughter" (second act), and "The Mascot" (third act); "The Merry War," Feb. 21. Cromwell lectured on "America" Feb. 22. Willie Edouin and Frank Sanger's "Sparks" company came Feb. 23, in "A Bunch of Keys." On Sunday night, March i, Cromwell gave "Switzerland and the Alps."
Harrigan & Hart took possession of this theatre and opened it with " McAllister's Legacy," March 2. Cromwell gave " A Tour
1885] HAVERLY'S THEATRE 491
of the World " March 8, and " Ireland " March 15. " The Major " was produced by Harrigan and Hart March 16. Cromwell, with " The Homes of the Monarchs," March 22 ; " St. Petersburg, Mos- cow, and Constantinople," March 29; " Paris," April 5 ; "London," April 12. "The Major" was withdrawn April 18, and "Cordelia's Aspirations " revived April 20.
The release of Harrigan & Hart from their arrangement with Samuel Colville was effected April 25. They paid a sum of money to the latter to get clear of their agreement. Harrigan & Hart's last week brought out large audiences, as might have been ex- pected from the publicity given to the proposed separation of the partners. Harrigan & Hart closed May 9 — their last appearance in New York together. Mr. Harrigan reorganized, and went on the road travelling. For the weeks of June i and 8 Hart rejoined Har- rigan, and appeared with him at Sinn's Park Theatre, Brooklyn, making his farewell appearance there with Harrigan, June 13.
Bartley Campbell obtained the lease of the theatre on April 30, 1885. This lease expired on Sept. i, i88g, and to secure it Mr. Campbell agreed to pay Samuel Colville and E. G. Gilmore, who held it, ;^i7,ocX) bonus over and above the rent that the estate of Marshall O. Roberts obtained as owner of the theatre property. Mr. Campbell paid ;^S,ooo cash down, and made arrangements to pay the remainder in four quarterly instalments, giving endorsed notes as security. The theatre was then formally turned over to him, and he managed it for a few months. To meet his obligations Mr. Campbell sub-leased the theatre to E. E. Rice for the revival of " Evangeline," and gave Messrs. Colville & Gilmore the right to col- lect the profits of the sub-lease, and devote the money to paying the theatre rent and clearing off his arrears of the |! 17,000 bonus.
During the autumn of 1885, Campbell became involved in financial difficulties, and a receiver was appointed to take charge of his busi- ness. His teeming brain, which had been run on the high pressure principle for a dozen years, began to show signs of giving way in the following spring, and in May, 1886, his eccentricities were deemed so serious that he was placed under restraint for examination as to his sanity. It was found that he was suffering from paresis, and he was eventually placed in an asylum. He died at the State Homoeopathic Asylum for the Insane, Middleton, N. Y., July 30, 1888. He was admitted to the asylum Nov. 30, 1886. He was buried at Pittsburg, in which city he was born in 1842. Bartley Campbell's first attempt at play writing was in 1871 when he com- posed a sensation drama, entitled "Through Fire." His second effort was " Peril " (1872), a comedy of life at Long Branch ; " Fate " was the next, in 1873, followed by "Risks" (April, 1873); "The Virginian" (Sept., 1873); "On the Rhine" (1875); "Gran Uale " (1874); "The Big Bonanza," an adaption of the German comedy,
492 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1885
"Ultimo" (1875); "A Heroine in Rags" (1876); "How Women Love" (1876) (this play was afterwards called "The Heart of the Sierras." It was reconstructed, and renamed "The Vigilantes"); "Clio" (1878); "Fairfax" (1879); "My Partner" (1879); "The Galley Slave;" " My Geraldine " (December, 1880); " The White Slave" (April, 1882) ; "Friend and Foe," 1882 ; "Siberia" and "Sepa- ration," January, 1884; "Paquita," Aug. 31, 1885. "Fate" was pro- duced at the Olympic Theatre, London, by Carlotta Leclercq, August 6, 1884; "The Galley Slave" was acted at Hull, England, Nov. 22, 1880, and for the first time in London, Feb. 8, 1886, at the Grand Theatre ; " Siberia " was played Dec. 4, 1887, at the Princess Theatre, London. Mr. Campbell was several inches above six feet in height, slender, and with a face bearing a remarkable resemblance to that of Artemus Ward. He was an excellent conversationalist, always ready with an apt repartee, and possessed a rich fund of anecdote.
Martin W. Hanley occupied this house for two weeks, commencing May II, 1885 with a play called "Are You Insured ?" which had this cast :
Priscilla Bouncer Dorcas Bouncer . Charity Bouncer Caroline Bitterroot Miss Skaggs Jerry Jangles Hodge ....
. Fanny Wentworth Sophie Hummel . . Fanny Daboll . . Annetta Zelma . . Jennie Bajard . . W. S. Daboll . Edward Eggleton
Philander Dividend . Charles Stanley Sarsfield Per Annum, Wm. H. Fitzgerald Raymond Shadow . . Dan CoUyer Charles Bitterroot . . Geo. Merritt Sheriff Roger Bouncer . Dan Hart Timothy Bitterroot, Joseph M. Sparks Fanny Bouncer . . Jennie Yeamans
This comedy was originally acted under the title of " Love vs. Insurance." Prof. Cromwell commenced another series of lectures May 17, and continued through the week as follows: "The Rhine," May 17; "Italy," May 18; "Rome," May 19; "Paris," May 20. Minnie Palmer reappeared May 25 in " My Sweetheart," and the season closed May 30.
The house was leased for two weeks for the purpose of introducing to the New York public Myra Goodwin as a star, she having previ- ously appeared in variety theatres. She opened Aug. 3 in a comedy called " Sis," by E. E. Kidder, which had this cast :
Hickory Hawkins . . Geo. Richards Agnes Barrett . . Mrs. E. M. Post Warm Pepper . Elizabeth Andrews
Mabel Dickie Martinez
Delia Emma Maddern
Warren .... Byron Douglas
Granville W. A. Paul
Joe Barrett .... Harry Dalton Sis Myra Goodwin
Joseph B. Polk commenced Aug. 1 7, for two weeks, in " Mixed Pickles." Alex Fitzgerald, who had been engaged at this house as stage manager, died at St. Vincent's Hospital, this city, Aug. 31. 1855. He made his first appearance on the stage in 1852, at the National Theatre, Cincinnati. He was a favorite with Bowery
i886]
THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE
493
audiences of 1855-56-57. In 1858 he went to Australia, where he supported Avonia Jones.
Hartley Campbell again leased the house and opened it August 21 with " Paquita," its first performance in America. Under Camp- bell's second management this house returned to its old name " The Fourteenth Street Theatre." The cast of "Paquita" was:
Dr. Manuel . . . Fred de Belleville
Stephano Russell Bassett
Victor Ivan Shirley
Phillippe .... Jerome Stevens
Padre D. Vanderen
Paquita Mary Mills
Senora Maria .... Ida Vernon
Lucette Eloise Willis
Zinari Evelyn Granville
Jos^ Borosco H. M. Pitt
Hortense Kate Forsyth
Dr. Delponte . . . C. P. Flockton Le Petite Hortense Bijou Fernandez
Hartley Campbell closed his season Oct. 2, and retired from active management. Edward E. Rice closed the house Oct. 5 and 6 for a rehearsal of " Evangeline " and produced it in sumptuous style. Irene Verona (Mrs. Fred Darrell) made her American d^but, as Evangeline ; MoUie Fuller, Eulalie ; Geo. K. Fortescue, Catherine ; John A. Mackay, Le Blanc ; Fay Templeton, Gabriel ; Josie Hall, Felician ; James S. Maffit, the Lone Fisherman ; Fred Frear, Dietrich ; and Amelia Summerville, Hubert. The fiftieth performance took place Nov. 19, when Edward Rice conducted the orchestra; also for the one hundredth performance, Dec. 31, Henry E. Dixey came on the stage in full "Adonis" costume, and joined in the dance at the end of the first act.
On Feb. 22, 1886, Louise Montague appeared as Evangeline, and Irene Verona as Gabriel. Linda Nash (Mrs. Ed. Morris) made her debut on the stage March 15, as Marie. The two hundred and fiftieth performance took place April 30, and the two hundred and fifty- second and last was a benefit to Edward Rice. Fay Templeton, Irene Verona, and Mollie Fuller acted Gabriel ; Louise Montague, Annie Summerville, and Irene Verona played Evangeline.
Effie Ellsler appeared here May 3, in " Woman Against Woman," which had this cast :
John Tressider Phil Tressider Gilbert Craven Riter Crank . Rachel Westwood Deborah . Mary Pedley
. Frank Weston
. Charles Foster
Harry Davenport
W. C. Armstrong
_ . . Mattie Earle
Mrs. E. L. Davenport
Florence Fields
Sir Henry Dr. Grayson . Bessie ,. . . Melton' . . Dave Jackson Miriam . .
A. B. Howard Charles Lamb . Effie Ellsler H. Thompson S. J. Milliken Marjorie Bonner
Though business was fair during the week Miss Ellsler's manager concluded not to play the second week. The house remained closed until May 17, when Lydia Thompson was seen, with her burlesque company (her first appearance in seven years), in " Oxygen," with this cast :
494 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [isse
Prince Fritz The Burgomaster Suzel .... Franz .... Herman ce . . Niklause . . .
Lydia Thompson
Louis de Lange
Addie Cora Reed
Richard F. Carroll
Lillie Alliston
Alexander Clark
Otto . . Hanserl . Lottchen . Gretchen Tarantula Dr. Ox .
Ruth Stetson
. . Leila Farrell
Virgie Graves
Marian Langdon
. Daisy Ramsden
Frederic Darrell
Annie Sutherland and Lucy Escott were also in the cast.
The season closed May 31, and Lydia Thompson sailed for Europe June I.
The next season began Sept. 6, with " Our Rich Cousin," which was acted two weeks. It had this cast :
Cynthia ' Georgia Cayvan
Florence .... Louise Muldener
Sim Wm. Richardson
Martha Mrs. Sol Smith
John Merrygold . . T. J. Herndon
Zed Milton Higgins
Will Styles . . . . A. S. Lipman Theodore .... W. J. Ferguson Winona Fanny Addison
Mrs. F. S. Chanfrau began an engagement here Sept. 20, in Sir Charles L. Young's melodrama, " The Scapegoat," cast thus :
Lord Parkhurst . . . Horace Vinton Victor Broughton, Myron LefHngwell, Jr. Sir Dennis Broughton
Harry Weaver, Jr. Captain Beaufort . . . Lewis Baker Policeman .... Alex Ramson
Priscilla Roval . . . Stella Boniface
Lady Broughton . . Helen Bancroft
Z. J Sidney Drew
Ashby Lewis Mitchell
Dean Harry Clifford
Maid Mary S. Baker
Samuel Colville died in this city Aug. 22, 1886, of heart dis- ease. He was born, 1825, at Castle Avery, County Down, Ire- land, and came to America in 1840. His first experience in the theatrical business was in 1853, in California. He was manager of three theatres in Australia, from 1858 to 1861. His first New York management was at Wallack's old theatre (Broadway and Broome Street), which he christened "Mary Provost's Theatre." Afterwards he managed the Theatre Comique (opposite St. Nicholas Hotel). With Geo. Wood he managed Wood's Museum (now Daly's, Thirtieth Street and Broadway). He visited Europe, and brought to America the Lydia Thompson burlesque company. He secured " Michael Strogoff " for America, and produced it at Booth's Theatre, this city, September, 1881; also brought over "The World." He became manager of this theatre late in 1883, in conjunction with E. G. Gilmore. His second wife, Emrae Roseau, he married Aug. 2, 1883. His remains were interred in Evergreen cemetery, Brooklyn.
Mrs. D. P. Bowers began an engagement Oct. 4, and continued four weeks. Her repertory was: "Mary Stuart," Oct. 4, 6; "Elizabeth," Oct. 5, 7, and matinde Oct. g; "Lucrezia Borgia" and "The Jealous Wife," Oct. 8; "Macbeth," evening Oct. 9. In " Mary Stuart " Mrs. Bowers acted the Queen ; Joseph Wheelock,
1887]
THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE
495
Douglas ; Fanny Gillette, Elizabeth ; Alberta Gallatin, Catherine ; John Lane, Mortimer; and Mark Lynch, Leicester. In "Eliza- beth" Mrs. Bowers played the title r61e; in "Lucrezia Borgia," Joseph Wheelock as Genarro, and John A. Lane, the Duke; in "Jealous Wife" Mrs. Bowers was Mrs. Oakley, and Wheelock, Mr. Oakley. In " Macbeth " Mrs. Bowers was Lady Macbeth ; Joseph Wheelock, Macbeth ; and Lane, Macduff. Mrs. Bowers opened her second week with "Lady Audley's Secret," Fanny Gillette as Alicia; this play was repeated the third week, until matinee, Oct. 23, when " Camille " was played. " Lucrezia Borgia" and "The Jealous Wife" were given the evening of Oct. 23. The repertory for the last week was: "Elizabeth," Oct. 25, 29; "Mary Stuart," Oct. 26, 28, matinee Oct. 30; "Camille," matinee Oct. 27; "Lady Audley's Secret," evening Oct. 27; "Macbeth," Oct. 30.
M. B. Curtis came here Nov. i, with "Caught in a Corner," for the first time in this city.
J. W. Rosenquest purchased E. G. Gilmore's interest in the theatre in November. Mr. Curtis continued the attraction until Dec. 27, when Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Knight opened in "Over the Garden Wall," for two weeks.
Denman Thompson appeared here Jan. 10, 1887, in "The Old Homestead, " for the first time in this city, and with this cast :
Fran9ois Fogarty . . Frank Martin Mrs. Henry Hopkins, Venie Thompson Nellie Patterson . Leonore Willard Reuben Whitcomb . T. D. Frawley Len Holbrook . .CM. Richardson
Mrs.
Joshua Whitcomb, Denman Thompson Frank Hopkins . Alfred T. Swartz John Freeman . . Frank Thompson Aunt Matilda Whitcomb, Louisa Morse Rickety Ann . . Annie Thompson Miss Annie Hopkins, Virginia Marlowe Miss Nellie Freeman . Lillian Stone Maggie O'Flaherty, Minnie Luckstone Henry Hopkins, Sr. . Walter Lennox Judge Patterson . . Gus Kammerly George Hopkins . . Albert Barnes
Mr. Thompson played this drama for twenty weeks, and closed June 4, followed June 6 with "The Hypocrite," for two weeks, with this cast:
Mrs. Murdoch Cy Prime Happy Jack . Eb. Ganzey . Pat Clancy .
Owen Marlowe Geo. A. Beane
. Walter Gale J. L. Morgan
. Frank Mara
George . . . Edith Walton . Edward Walton Richard Singleton Doctor Vernon
Newton Gotthold . . Annie Robe . Osmond Tearle . Herbert Kelcey Harry Courtaine
Barney Elliott . Charles S. Dickson Grace Contraire . Miriam O'Leary
Martha Marie Bates
Archibald Tony Farrell
This drama was by Lawrence Marston, but it was afterwards rewritten by John M. Morton and called "Wife for Wife." This house then closed for the summer. The next season commenced Aug. 30, 1887, with "The Still Alarm," for the first time on the stage, with this cast:
496 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1887
Jack Manley Harry Lacy
Jo Jones . . . . M. J. Gallagher
Nozzle Joseph Doane
John Bird . . . Nelson Wheatcroft Willie Manley . . Charles Dickson
Franklyn Fordham . . Eugene Eberle
Doc Wilbur . . . Jacques Kruger
Elinore Fordham . Blanche Thorne
Cad Wilbur . . . Blanche Vaughan
Mrs. Manley . . Mrs. Selden Irwin
Hoyt's "A Hole in the Ground" was given Sept. 12, for the first time in New York, and the cast was:
A Capitalist . . . William F. Mack A Romantic Young Man
W. Otis Harlan A Commercial Tourist
Alf. M. Hampton A Second Commercial Tourist
W. Mack A Station Agent . . . Frank Lawton A Roper-in for Centropolis Hotel
Alf. M. Hampton A Roper-in for Grand Union Hotel
W. Mack A Boy, anxious to be a R. R. Man
W. H. Jordan A League Base Ball Umpire
Julian Mitchell
A Tailor Made Girl . Dudie Douglass A Second Tailor Made Girl
Fannie Stevens A Third Tailor Made Girl
Irene Hernandez A Young Mother . . Helen Leslie A Telegraphic Operator
Nannette Comstock A Second Tarrier . . Alice Walsh A Third Tarrier .... Daisy Hall The Lady of the Lunch Counter
Flora Walsh
A Brat Daisy HaU
A Tarrier Helen Leslie
A Stranger .... Geo. Richards A Deaf Lady .... Alice Walsh
Minnie Palmer appeared here Oct. 10, in J. P. Wooler's ope- retta "The Ring and the Keeper;" and also in "My Sweet- heart." "Baron Rudolph," by Bronson Howard, was produced Oct. 24, with Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Knight as the stars. The cast was:
Rudolph .... Geo. S. Knight Whetworth .... Frank Carlyle
Rhoda Carrie Turner
Owen Lin Hurst
Sheriff Frank Colfax
Ernestine Jane Stuart
Gen. Metcalf . . Judge Merrybone Geoffrey Brown . Allen . . . . Nellie Dashwood
Charles Bowser
M. A. Kenne^
Henry Woodrufte
Geo. D. Fawcett
Mrs. Geo. Knight
" Baron Rudolph " was originally written by Bronson Howard for Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Florence, and was called " Only a Tramp." Mrs. Florence did not like the character of Nellie Dashwood — the part written for her — and the play was not accepted. While in London, during the summer of 1886, Mr. and Mrs. Knight met Mr. Howard and bought the play. Its first presentation by Geo. Knight was at the Academy of Music, Cleveland, Ohio (Mrs. Knight was not in the cast). The following year Mr. and Mrs. Knight revisited Europe, and Mr. Howard rewrote the play, and it was produced under the new name of "Baron Rudolph," at Hull, England, for two weeks, by Mr. and Mrs. Knight, supported by Wilson Barrett's London stock company.
They returned to America and for nearly two seasons played "Baron Rudolph," but the rage for farce comedy induced them to
1888] THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE 497
lay it aside and produce "Over the Garden Wall." They were again induced to produce " Baron Rudolph " at the Fourteenth Street theatre under the direction of Charles Frohman. David Belasco made several alterations in the play, and it was produced as stated above. It was kept on the stage for four weeks to bad business. The play not only cost Mr. Knight considerable money, but broke his heart, as he had great faith in it. He had remarked prior to its production that if " Rudolph " failed it would break his heart, and it did. He then made a trip with his company through the West with "Over the Garden Wall," closing at the Grand Opera House, Chicago, 111. It was noticed during this engage- ment that he was not himself, and occasionally forgot a line. He complained of a pain at the back of his head, and his hands were cold. He was taken to Orange, N. J., and for twenty months was under treatment of the best brain specialists in the State. Not improving and getting no hope from the doctors, his wife had him removed to Asbury Park, where, in four weeks time, he had a slight stroke of paralysis, affecting his right side. During the summer of 1890 he had another slight stroke of paralysis, and became speechless. Before losing his voice, he expressed the wish that he might never become an object of charity, and, that his wish should be fulfilled, his wife concluded to return to the stage to enable her to provide him with the comforts of life. She reappeared at the Grand Opera House, this city, as Louise in "Dr. Bill," Sept. 7, 1891. There was a benefit for Mr. Knight at the Bijou Theatre, this city, afternoon Feb. 27, 1890, and ;^2,200 was raised, but Mrs. Knight refused to accept it, and it was placed as a fund for defray- ing the expenses incurred at the institution in which he was placed. In July, i8gi, Mrs. Knight had Mr. Knight removed from his retreat to his mother's home in Philadelphia, where he died Jan. 14, 1892. His right name was George Washington Sloan, and he was born Nov. 6, 1850.
Denman Thompson reappeared Nov. 21, and remained five weeks, in "The Old Homestead." On Dec. 25 (matinee) the Hanlons produced "Le Voyage en Suisse." Emily Bancker, Ethel Gray, T. H. Glenney, Harry Vaughan, Charles F. Walton, Richard Jones, Snitz Edwards, and Edward Hanlon were in the cast.
McNish, Johnson & Slavin's minstrels opened here Jan. 9, 1888. for one week, followed, Jan. 16, by Frank Daniels in " Little Puck, " its first New York performance. Annie Pixley came Jan. 23, with "The Deacon's Daughter;" Jan. 30, Modjeska appeared in "Camille," repeated Feb. i and 2; Jan. 31, and matinee, Feb. 4 "As You Like It" was given; "Donna Diana," evening Feb. 1-3; "Cymbeline" (first time in New York), evening Feb. 4. Plympton played Armand in "Camille;" Orlando in "As You Like It;" Leonatus in "Cymbeline," and William Harris played
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498 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cissg
the leading part in "Donna Diana." In the company were Eben Plympton, William Harris, S. E. Springer, Charles Vandenhoff, Vincent Sternroyd, Robert Taber, William F. Owen, Tully Mar- shall, Charles B. Kelley, Mrs. M. A. Pennoyer, Clara Ellison, Grace Filkins, and Sara Blanche Gray. Modjeska's second and final week opened Feb. 6, with "Measure for Measure," which had this cast:
Tully Marshall . W. F. Owen . C. B. Kelley . . Modjeska . . Mary Shaw
Vincentio C. Vandenhoff
Angelo Wm. Morris
Escolus S. E. Springer
Claudio Robert Taber
Lucio .... Vincent Sternroyd
Provost T. L. Coleman
Elbow James Cooper
Froth . .
Pompey . .
Barnardine
Isabella
Mariana
Mistress Overdone
Mrs. M. A. Pennoyer
Modjeska appeared Feb. 6 as Beatrice in " Much Ado About Nothing," repeated matinee, Feb. 8; Eben Plympton was Bene- dick ; Mary Shaw, Hero ; and W. F. Owen, Dogberry. " Cymbe- line" was played Feb. 9; "As You Like It," Feb. 10, matinde and evening; Feb. 11, "Romeo and Juliet." N. C. Goodwin, Jr., opened a fortnight's stay Feb. 13 in "Lend Me Five Shillings" and "Turned Up." Roland Reed followed Feb. 27, presenting "The Woman Hater," for the first time in New York, and with this cast :
Samuel Roland Reed
Mulbridge .... Harry A. Smith
Dr. Lane Ferd Hight
Geo. Dobbins . . . . A. C. Deltwyn
Lucy Joy .
Alice . . . Tom Ripley Mrs. Walton
Alice Hastings
Annie Lewis
Wm. C. Andrews
. Bessie Hunter
Maggie Mitchell appeared here March 12 in Fred Williams' play, "Maggie the Midget." It was originally done in December, 1884, at Omaha, Neb. "Fanchon" was given matinle March 21, and "Jane Eyre," March 24.
" The Still Alarm " returned March 26, and had a run of one hundred and four consecutive performances. It had this cast:
Jack Manley Harry Lacy
John Bird .... Ralph Delraore Doc Wilbur .... Joseph Wilkes Willie Manley . Charles £. Lothian Franklyn Fordham . . E. A. Eberle Joseph Jones ... M. J. Gallagher
Elinore Fordham Cad Wilbur Mrs. Manley Jenkins . . Nozzle . . Tony . .
. . Lizzie Hudson Blanche Vaughan Mrs. Selden Irwin
. Thomas W. Ford
Benjamin Dean
George A. Palmer
A preliminary season commenced Aug. 27, with "Gwynne's Oath ; " the cast of which was :
Gwynne Archer . Bessy Smith . . Willoughby Parker Pepe Latour . . Sir Pearce Parker
. . May Wilkes . . Isabella Irving . EmUie J. Boswell Little Dot Winters . . A. C. Deltwyn
Harry Vesey . . . Davenport Bebus
Richard Welbeck . Harold Courtney
Gilbert Archer . . . Evelyn Evans
Gussy Lambton . . Ernest Tarleton
Jim Richards . . . . L. R. Willard
iSSgH
THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE
499
The next season opened Sept. lo, 1888, with "Fascination," cast thus:
Lady Slash ton >
Cora Tanner
Isabel Waldron Eleanor Carey Maggie Dean Lucy Escott Belle Waldron Clara Knowles
Duke of Hurlingham . Lionel Bland The Hon. Sam Slash ton
Augustus Cook Count La Grange . P. A. Anderson Mr. Isaacson . . Norman Campbell
Adel Helen Ten Broeck
Lord Islay Edward Bell
Rev. Mr. CoUey . . . Chas. Coote
Charles Marlowe Duchess of Hurlingham
Rosa Delemere . Arabella Armhurst Dottle D'Estrange Connie Hillmore . Mrs. Isaacson
This play attracted good houses until Oct. 29, when it was with- drawn for "A Hole in the Ground," in which Fanny Stevens acted the Telegraph Girl, and Nettie Lyford the Lunch Girl. "She," with Gillette and Hayman's company, was seen Nov. 12. Roland Reed came Nov. 26 in "The Woman Hater." Alice Hastings was taken ill at the close of the performance Nov. 26, and was conveyed to her hotel in a carriage and died of paralysis of the heart in this city Nov. 30. She was a native of Dublin, Ireland. She appeared at this theatre in 1881, with the Colville Folly com- pany, and was leading lady with Roland Reed's travelling company from 1882 to the day of her death. Her remains were interred in Mt. Vernon cemetery, Philadelphia. Prof. Herrmann occupied the house weeks Dec. 10-17. "A Tin Soldier" was presented Dec. 24.
M. J. Kelly, the baseball celebrity, made his debut here as a Thespian in "A Hole in the Ground," Dec. 31.
The Howard Athenaeum specialty company appeared Jan. 7, 1889, with the following performers : Alfred and Jackson, Poluski Bros., Tennyson and O'Gorman, Irwin Sisters, Lawlor and Thorn- ton, Wood and Sheppard, Paul Cinquevalli and the " Cinquevalli Troupe," Ida Heath, and James F. Hoey. "Fantasma" was the bill the week of Jan. 14.
W. J. Scan Ian, Jan. 21, produced, for the first time in this city, " Myles Aroon, " with this cast :
Myles Aroon Pat Phelan Joe Upton . Lady Glover Mrs. Farrell
. W. J. Scanlan Robert McNair . Charles Dade . Stella Teuton . Millie Sackett
Squire Raymond Thurston
Charles Mason Mike Carney . . Thaddeus Shine Maggie Farrell . . Mattie Ferguson Lucy O'Shea .... Mary Warner
Annie Pixley came Feb. 4, with "22 Second Floor," originally produced in San Francisco, Cal, by Marie Aimee, under the title of "Deceived." It had this cast:
Flora Featherstone . . Annie Pixley Mrs. Johnson . . Adelaide J. Eaton Amphytrion H. Smith . . M. C. Daly Jeremiah Jinkerson . Joseph Brennan
Barney Binney . . . B. F. Grinnell Mrs. Wynkoop . . . Elsie Gerome
Polly MoUie Ravel
John Ellis John T. Burke
500 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1889
Maggie Mitchell presented, Feb. 11, C. Wallace Walters' drama, " Ray," for the first time in this city, and with this cast :
Tom Rugby . . James B. Watkins Mrs. Vorell . . Marion P. Clifton Ray Golden . . . Maggie Mitchell Ellice Dean . . . Virginia Nelson Felicia Annie Chase
Gabe Wilden . Simon Stea Percy Vorell . Mark Walworth Ben Linden
Charles Abljott
R. F. McClannin
C. E. Boardman
. Geo. N. Deyo
Sheridan Tupper
"Le Voyage en Suisse" returned here Feb. 18, for two weeks. Chas. Hawkins played Dwindledown in it the second week. " Drifting Apart " came March 4, with Ida Mulle as Hester. "The Paymaster" began March 25, and stayed two weeks. It had this cast:
. . . Gertie Hart . . Annie Alliston May Holcombe Jeannette Randolph . . Neil O'Brien . . Beatrice Lieb
Francis Houghton . Frazer Coulter Moyna Sullivan
Capt. Hammersley . Hardee Kirkland Mrs. Harding .
Paymaster O'Connor Hettie Harding
Duncan B. Harrison Nettie Harding
Corporal Henley . . . W. A. Ralph Adj. Harding .
Nellie O'Connor . . Ethel Harrison Ethel Miller .
Mrs. O'Connor . . . Rene Perselle
Billy Birch took a benefit March 28. Birch & Moran's min- strels gave a first part. Then came Lester and Allen, Chas. McDonald, Eva French, Peter Goldrich, Dan Burke, James Decker, James Burke, Harry Guion, James Williamson, P. C; Shortis, Flora and May Irwin, the Steens, Baker, Jones, Man- ning and Davis, P^erguson and Mack, Frank Mordaunt, John Hart, and the Callahan Bros.
"An Iron Creed" was seen for the first time April 8, Stow, the author, having hired the house for two weeks, but the " play " was acted only one. It had this cast :
David Delmont . . . . J. F. Brien Dr. Sternlaw H. F. Snow- Ruth Marie Cross
Nanny Kate Foley
Jem Brazencraft Atkins
Brace Nighthawk . . . H. A. Carr Fitz-Masher de Puttipayte, H. Lynn
Anglice ApebuU Sam Boodlebang Locust Prompt Mrs. Boodlebang
Miss Angle Mrs. Arthur .
. . . . S. R. Barry
. W. H. Ceilings
. . . F. Livingston
Mary Wade Haihilton . . Rachelle Renard . . . Louise Halbee
The Madison Square Theatre company appeared in " Partners " April 15, followed April 22 by J. K. Emmet in his new play called "Uncle Joe, or Fritz in a Madhouse," which had this cast:
Uncle Joe Parker Edmond D. Lyons Richard Parker . . .CD. Bennett Baron Von Woelfenstein
Harold Hartsell Hon. Bob Penley . R. N. Hickman Mrs. Joe Parker . Ethel Greybrooke Lady Grace Howard, Mary A. Penfield Fritz Von Woelfenstein, J. K. Emmet 1st Keeper Insane Asylum C. St. Aubyne Mrs. Chumbley . Alice Mansfield
Charles O'Rielly Collie Parker Montague . Burrows Flora . . Dr. Mickett Brown . . Johnnie Johns Maria . . The Plant .
... J. Cody
Louise Balfe
Frank H. Dayton
G. R. Montgomery
. Alice Spencer
. A. R. Adams
H. W. Brinkley
. W. C. Utter
. Marie Carlyle
, Baby Spencer
i8go]
THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE
501
The season of 1889-90 opened Aug. 19 with "Mankind," given with this cast :
Philip Warren Daniel Groodge . Peter Sharpley . Edmund Sharpley Richard Pinpool . Geo. Melton . .
. Forrest Robinson
W. H. Thompson
S. E. Springer
. Clarence Heritage
Herbert Ayling
. James L. Carhart
Alice Maitland . Arabella Bright . Constance Melton Keziah Beckerton Barnaby Bright . Jessie ....
Marjorie Bonner Maggie Hallo way . Esther Lyons . Emilie Boswell . . Alf Fisher . Gertie Boswell
"The Fairy's Well" was produced Sept. 9, for two weeks, and thus cast :
Larry Dee . . Andy Coogan . . Dan Carmody Mark Condon . . Eunice Beresford, Mona Carmody . Mary Ellen Brody Nellie Carmody .
Carroll Johnson . . John F. Ward . . . Chas. Frew
Alfred Fremont Florence Hamilton . . Daisy Temple
Fannie Osborne . . . Little Zella
Clara O'Grady Alice O'Grady Jennie O'Grady Kitty O'Grady Tracy Farrell Jonah Kelly . Patsey . . .
, . Gertie Boswell Little Nellie . . Little Amy . . Little Rosie . A. J. MuUer . . P. Toohey John McLaughlin
This was Carroll Johnson's first appearance in a white face part. Hallen & Hart's company appeared Sept. 23 in "Later On;" "Zig Zag " came Sept. 30 ; Cora Tanner appeared Oct. 7 in " Fascina- tion," followed Nov. 4 by James O'Neill in " Monte Cristo." The Howard Athenaeum specialty company began Nov. 1 1 and closed Nov. 29. Professor Cromwell lectured Nov. 30; Cleveland's minstrels, week of Dec. 2. Annie Pixley returned in "22 Second Floor," Dec. 9. Herrmann's Transatlantique vaudeville company, Dec. 16, followed by Prof. Herrmann, the magician. "Fantasma" was seen for two weeks, beginning Dec. 30.
Jan. 13, 1890, Robert Mantell was seen for the first time in New York, in "The Corsican Brothers," with this cast:
Fabien dei Franchi \
Louis dei Franchi ^
M. Chateau Renaud
M. Alfred Meynard .
Le Baron Montgiron,
Le Baron Giorcfino Martelli
Guy Lindsley Gaetano Orlando . . . Fred Lotto
William J. Scanlan appeared here Jan. 27 in " Myles Aroon ; " Feb. 3, " Shane na Lawn." "A Midnight Bell" was heard Feb. 10; Thomas W. Keene came Feb. 17, in "Louis XL":
Robert Mantell
. . Mark Price Kendall Weston B. T. Ringgold
Marco Colonna . . . Murry Woods M. Beauchamp . . . Martin Clark Emilie de Lesparre, Charlotte Behrens Mme. dei Franchi . . Minnie Monck
Celestine Marie Sheldon
Estelle Clara Flagg
Coralie Annie Weaver
Louis XI T. W. Keene
Richard J. B. Peters
Due de Nemours . . Geo. Learock Charles, the Dauphin
William Humphrey Jacques Coitier . . . Frank Hennig
Philip de Commines . Geo. Gaston Tristan I'Ermite . . Willard Newell Oliver Le Dain . . Henri de Lusson Fran9ois de Paule . . John Griffith Marie Lavinia Shannon
502 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsgo
Mr. Keene's repertory for the week was: Tuesday and Wednes- day nights and Saturday matinee, "Louis XI.;" Wednesday matinee, "The Merchant of Venice;" Thursday night, "Julius Ccesar;" Friday night, "Richelieu;" Saturday night, "Richard III." Rose Coghlan appeared here Feb. 24 in "Jocelyn," with this cast:
Prince Saviani . . Philip de Boissac Charles de Boissac Henry de Boissac Gaston Marcel . . Mme. de Montaigne, Georgette . . . . Agenor
John T. Sullivan
G. H. Leonard
. . H. A. Carr
. . Geo. James
. Frank Lander
Helen Bancroft
Alice Fairbrother
James Dunn
Marfiso Narcisse Captain . Michael . Blaisois Boy . . Jocelyn .
Chas. W. Morgan Chas. E. Edwin F. W. McClellan E. Tom Webber Luke Martin . Violet Black . Rose Coghlan
" Peg Woffington " (" Masks and Faces ") was acted week of March 3 by Rose Coghlan. " The Still Alarm " returned March 10 for two weeks. Monroe and Rice's company were seen March 17 in "My Aunt Bridget;" "A Long Lane, or Pine Meadows," March 31. It was seen for the first time in New York, under the title of "Pine Meadow," June i, 1889, at a Madison Square Theatre authors' matinee, and the first performance on any stage under its new name took place at Albany, N. Y., March 27. The cast at this house was :
John Nettleton . . Charlie Cupid . . . Frank Findley . . Colonel Rollingstone, Reuben Meadows
. David Murray Charles Dickson Byron Douglas Harry Courtaine . A. C. Deltwyn
Margaret Meadows . . Judith Berolde Daisy Meadows . . Ethel Harrington Florence Featherly . Virginia Earned Dorothy Meadows . Mrs. W. G. Jones Jim Herding .... Frank Foster
" A Brass Monkey " was seen here April 21 ; " My Aunt Bridget," April 28; Joseph Murphy, May 5, in "Shaun Rhue," and May 12, in "Kerry Gow;" May 19, J. B. Polk opened in "The Silent Part- ner," for three weeks, and was followed by Agnes Herndon, June 9, in " La Belle Marie, " with this cast :
Jean Ingleside > Marie Du Bois ) Earl Leighton George Leighton . Mr. Leighton . . Jack Ingleside Edith Mathews . Mary Ingleside .
Agnes Herndon
Clarence Handyside
Frank Karrington
Charles A. Smiley
Theo. Hudgens
. . Elsie Lombard
. . Grace Gayler
John Ingleside Rev. M. Mason Andrew Stub . Grace Leighton Suzette . . . Typewriter . . Patsy Walsh . Newsboy . .
. L. P. Hicks . J. Havlin Geo. Neville Alma Strong Ethel Elliott . Mrs. White Vevie Niobra Harry O'Lynn
Week of June i. Alma Strong and Frank Karrington retired from the cast. Ralph Bell appeared as Earl Leighton, and Marian Reed as Grace. The house closed for the season June 21. J. T. Maguire, treasurer of the theatre, took a benefit Monday evening, June 23.
iSgi]
THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE
503
The next season opened Aug. 18, with Fay Templeton as the star. " Hendrik Hudson " was produced, with this cast :
Hendrik Hudson . . Fay Templeton Christopher Columbus, Eva Randolph Kill von KuU . . . Edwin Stevens Marquis Perfecto del Cabanas
Alf C. Wheelen
GafE Ensign . . Fritz von Twinkle Miss Manhattan . Don Abattoire .
Harry N. Dowley . Rose Newham . Toma Hanlon
Chas. McClelland
McParlan Snitr Edwards
Mina . . . Geraldine McClelland
Quireata Nellie Russell
Ysabel Alice Earle
Hans John W. Ince
Abigail Estelle Mortimer
Emmelina .... Florence Barry Alicia Jessie Bond
Alice Earle and Florence Barry withdrew from the cast during the first week. Anna P. Caldwell joined the company matinle, Aug. 23, as Emmelina. Cleveland's minstrels, Sept. i, for two weeks. " Good Old Times " by Wilson Barrett and Hall Caine was presented Sept. 15, with this cast:
John Langley . . . Atkins Lawrence Crosby Grainger . John Glendinning Inspector Braithwaite . James Cooper Nat Latrigg . . Norman Campbell Rev. Mr. Moore . . Robert Edeson
Mary Langley Lucy .... Mrs, Martha Troutbeck
Spot
Amos Drew . . Coldbath Joe . . The Fiddler . .
. Eleanor Carey
John Glendinning
Emily Maynard
. Charles Coote
C. T, Nichols
. . Alf. Fisher
Fred Brooks
Cupid . . . The Oysterman Sandy . . Nick Baker Col. Wayne Hans . . Jake Mooney Mr. Horricks Mr. Chard . Mr. Jenkins Biddy . .
John R. Cumpson
. . W. Blake
. . Chas. Diehl
R. Newman
Alfred Burnham
Thomas de Pui
Chris Williams
. A. G. Smith
L. Meadows
. . R. Weldon
Maggie HoUaway
"Blue Jeans," by Joseph Arthur, was seen for the first time on any stage Oct. 6, and had this cast :
Perry Bascom .... Robt. Hilliard Col. Henry Clay Risener
Geo. D. Chaplin
Nell Tutewiler > Beleena Kicker ) Bascom's Child Ben Boone Seth Igoe . . June .... Sue Eudaly
. . Laura Burt
Grade Sherwood . Geo. Fawcett . . Ben Deane Jennie Yeamans . Judith Berolde
Jacob Tutewiler . . . J. J. Wallace Jim Tutewiler . . Jacques Kruger Isaac Hankins . . . W. J. Wheeler Cmdy Tutewiler .... Alice Leigh Samanthe Hinkins
Marion Mordaunt Strickland
Jennie Yeamans withdrew from the cast after Oct. 21, and Laura Burt acted June. Grace Sherwood enacted the r61es of Nell and Beleena. The fiftieth performance was Nov. 17, when Jennie Yeamans returned and Laura Burt resumed her original r61e. The one hundredth consecutive performance took place Dec. 29.
" Blue Jeans " was acted for the one hundred and fiftieth time Feb. 13, 1891. Robert Hilliard withdrew from the cast Feb. 14, and William Harcourt assumed his r61e Feb. 16. "Blue Jeans" was withdrawn after the evening of March 7, and was followed by
504 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsgi
William J. Scanlan, in "Myles Aroon," for one week, and "The Irish Minstrel " for the second week. Robert B. Mantell com- menced March 23 in "Monbars;" March 30, "After Dark," with Harry Meredith as Old Tom, was given. Rose Coghlan came April 6, in "Masks and Faces;" April 13 Joseph Murphy came in "Kerry Gow." Mr. Murphy produced "Shaun Rhue " week of April 27. For his last week, May 4, " The Donagh " was played, followed May 11 by "McCarthy's Mishaps;" May 18, Annie Fix- ley was seen in " Kate ; " May 25, Hallen & Hart appeared in "Later On;" June 1, "Miss Manning" was produced, with Effie Ellsler the star. It had this cast :
Theocrites Kneezer . . Frank Weston Lawrence Manning . . John A. Ellsler Arthur Manning . . D. M. Murray Rev. Charles Chasuble, Adolphe Lestina Roland Cozzens . . . Gerald Griffin
Dr. Ernest Deer . . John A. Holland Master Thomas Radway
Chas. E. Lothian Cecil Radway . . . Jennie Kennark Maggie Manning . . EiEe Ellsler
The play was a failure, and the house closed June 6.
The next season began Aug. 3, with "A Fair Rebel," originally played in this city at a trial matinee (Dec. 19, 1889). "The Still Alarm" came Aug. 31 for two weeks, with Geo. Fawcett as Jack Manley, and Nellie Yale Nelson as Elinor. This lady was of the Brooklyn Amaranth amateurs, and this was her first appearance on the professional stage. "Aunt Bridget's Baby," with Geo. W. Monroe as the star, was seen Sept. 14, followed Sept. 21 by Clara Morris in "Odette." W. J. Scanlan appeared here Sept. 28 in "Mavourneen," for the first time in New York. It had this cast:
Terrence Dwyer . . . W. J. Scanlan Georgie Dwyer . . Dot Clarfendon
John Dwyer . . . Frank Burbeck Mark John Findlay
Captain Marchmont . Frazer Coulter Colonel Frank Peters
Abbe Maloney . Charles M. Collins Cusack J. O. Le Brasse
Shatnus Corrigan . . Thaddeus Shine Kate Morris .... Grace Thorne
Lady Caroline Dwyer . Helen Tracy Susie Morris .... Ray Maskell
Lady May Tyrrell, Nannette Comstock Kitty Morris .... Dot Clarendon Mrs. Dwyer, Emma Maddern Stevens
The one hundredth performance took place Dec. 24. At the Christmas matinee Wm. J. Scanlan could scarcely finish his part, but rallied on Christmas night, which was his last performance.
On Saturday, Dec. 26, his disease took such a serious turn that for his own safety and for that of others, he was removed to the home of his manager, Augustus Pitou. He shortly afterwards be- came so violent that he was taken to Bloomingdale Asylum for the Insane, Jan. 7, 1892. He died at the Asylum, White Plains, N. Y., Feb. 18, 1898. He was born of Irish parents in Springfield, Mass., Feb. 14, 1856. With William Cronin he did an Irish "turn" in variety theatres. In 1877 he travelled with Minnie Palmer as joint star. The next season he travelled as a star in
i8g2^
THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE
505
"Friend and Foe," under Bartley Campbell's management. In 1881 he was under the management of Augustus Pitou, and con- tinued with that gentleman until his retirement from the stage. Although he could not read a note of music he composed over fifty songs. From "Peek-a-Boo" he drew ^20,000 in royalties in less than six weeks.
The theatre was closed Dec. 26, also week of Dec. 28, and re- opened Jan. 4, 1892, with "Blue Jeans," which closed April 9, when Laura Burt acted June, and Lawrence Hanley, Perry Bascom. Lydia Thompson came April 11 in " Uncle Dan," "A Bad Penny," and "A Bric-a-Brac Shop." Annie Pixley appeared here April 18 in "Polly Middles," for the first time. Polly Middles, Annie Pixley; Mark Antony, Geo. C. Boniface; Hon. Cecil Howard, Charles J. Campbell ; Max von Settenbach, Charles Allison ; Lady Cornelia, Yolande Wallace; Amy Battledown, Lucy Coote; and Belinda, Rosa Cooke. " Imagination " was played for the first time here, May 23, with this cast:
Harry Jelliman Martha Jelliman Mebel Jelliman Tom Dawson Dick Brennan Henderson Hoodley
Harry Hotto
Georgia Dickson
Bijou Fernandez
W. W. Wilson
Wilton Lackaye
Alf Hampton
Rev. Calvin Gilder Solomon Ricketts Caroline Ricketts Madge .... Prof. Schmid . . Popsey . . . Flanagan . . .
. Lindsay Hurst
Charles Stanley
Helen Kinnaird
. Marion Elmore
Frank Hatch
Lizzie May Ulmer
Harry Tansy
Minnie Matlock, Lizzie Hudson Collier
The season closed June 4, but the house reopened Aug. IJ, 1892, with "The White Squadron," seen for the first time on any stage. It had this cast :
Victor Staunton . . Demetiro de Romacio . Francisco de Romacio, Paulo da Silveria . . Deodoro da Fonseca
Robert Hilliard
. Henry Lee
Byron Douglas
Wm. Harcourt
Oscar Eagle
Sanois Elmer Grandin
Horatio Doolittle Fritters
Graham Henderson
Harry Marlinspike . Eugene Sanger Judge Smith . . H. W. Montgomery
Jacko J. J. Coleman
Commander Robertson, Oscar Eagle Onesta da Silveria . . Alice Fischer Terese de Romacio, Nellie Yale Nelson Hope Blossom . . . Katie Pearson Martha Higginbotham, Louisa Eldridge
"The Still Alarm" revived Monday afternoon (Labor Day) Sept. 5. "The City Directory" was seen Sept. 12; "A Fair Rebel," Sept. 19; Hallen & Hart Sept. 2 in the "New Idea;" "Blue Jeans" was revived Nov. 14; "My Aunt Bridget's Baby" was seen Nov. 28; "The Ensign," Dec. S, for the first time in New York, when it had this cast:
The President . Gideon Welles . Admiral Farragut Capt. Wilkes . Lieut. Allen . . Lieut. Blythe Ensign Baird Midshipman Watson,
. Logan Paul Howard Scott Charles Sidney . Wilson Deal Hardy Vernon Benj. Horning . James Neill George A. Wright
Sergeant Black Bill Bowlin . . Coxs'wn Dudley Mrs. Baird Mrs. Wilkes Alice Greer Dot . . Mary . .
Paul Gilmore . Charles Parsloe
Geo. Fawcett Mrs. W. G. Jones
Nora Yaeger . Ruth Carpenter Maribel Seymour . Edith Wright
5o6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1893
"Superba" came Dec. 26 for two weeks; "Blue Jeans," Jan. 1893; " Glen-da-Lough " was produced Jan. 30, with this cast:
Terence O'Toole . . J. K. Murray- Lord Montgomery . Chas. A. Smiley Hon. Percy Dudley, W. H. Power, Jr. Sandy Nagle ... E. L. Walton Bride Nagle . . Adelaide Cushman
Mary O'Toole . Martha Foley . Kate Kearney . Mary Desmond Lady Beresford
. . Helen Kemp
Ethelyn Strickland
. Hattie Dellwood
Grace McConnell
Madge Mortimer
Annette de RiveroUes, Annie Sutherland Berthe de Brissac . Perdita Hudspeth
Elisa Mildred Dennison
Francine de Riverolles
Mrs. Brown Potter Eliza Marion Erie
A feature of this engagement was the presence of the venerable F. Nicholls Crouch in the conductor's chair of the orchestra during the singing of his famous ballad, " Kathleen Mavourneen. " Mrs. James Brown Potter and Mr. Kyrle Bellew were seen here in "The Marriage Spectre" Feb. 13, with this cast:
Lucien de Riverolles . . Kyrle Bellew Le Marquis de Riverolles
Verner Clarges Stanislaus de Grandredon
Henry Chanfrau Henri de Symeux . Laurence Courtley Celestin John F. Ward
" A Nutmeg Match " came Feb. 27 : Robert Lucas, E. A. Eberle ; William Hartley, Earl Brown ; George Washington Littlehales, David Warfield; Tom Stoddard, Henry Herman; Rev. Dr. Os- good, William Lee; Belle Mason, Helen Weathersby; Elizabeth Ann, Mrs. E. A. Eberle ; Cinders, Annie Lewis. The house was closed night of March i and reopened March 2 with Lizzie Evans in the place of Annie Lewis. "Niobe" was given March 6; "The Dazzler," March 13, with Anna Boyd as Kitty Starlight for a fort- night. " Natural Gas " came March 27 ; " The Span of Life," April 3; Carroll Johnson appeared May i in "An Irish Statesman;" "The Potter-Bellew combination returned May 15, in "Theresa Raquin." "Blue Jeans" came back May 22; "A Flag of Truce" was seen June 12, and the season closed June 17, to reopen Aug. 28, 1893, with "Glen-da-Lough": W. T. Sheehan was Sandy; Ida Glenn, Bride Nagle; and Clara Lane, Kathleen. Hallen & Hart began Sept. 25 for two weeks in the " New Idea. "
"The Corncracker" was seen for the first time on any stage Oct. 10. It had this cast:
David Buclthardt . William Ingersoll
John Strange . . . Walter Edwards
Mel McCargo . . . Geo. D. Chaplin
Bill Sparr Percy Brooke
Hiram Price . . . . H. M. Morse
Sam Shady } t u /-
Casey ; " • J°^^P^ Conyers
Tom Ax >
Gunn J ■ ■ Helen Strange Mme. Bell . Maria Nail . Nancy Nail
Wallace Bruce
. Judith Berolde
Eleanor Carey
Jennie Goldthwaite
. . Mattie Earle
"Maine and Georgia" was presented Nov. 17, for the first time in this city; the theatre had been closed four nights this week as the play was not ready. The cast was :
1894]
THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE
S°7
Carroll Snow . Patrick Cork . General Golden Maurice Danzier Capt. Maitland Lieut. Howe . Lucy Snow
. Harry Mainhall T. D. Frawley
. Louis Hendricks
Clarence T. Arper Theo. Babcock
. W. J. Lonergan Elsie Lombard
Abby . .
Marie
Gabriel
Sister Claire j
Sister Therese
Absalom J. Bates
Louise Sylvester
Polly Stockwell
. Beryl Thorn L. R. Stockwell
The original title of this play was "A Man from Maine," acted in San Francisco, Cal., Sept. 20, 1890. At this theatre it was a great failure. During the last week of its stay here James Corbett, the pugilist, appeared in it. " The Power of Gold " was seen Dec. 4; "A Flag of Truce," Dec. 18. On this date the prices of admission were reduced, the highest charge being one dollar.
Mrs. John Drew appeared here Dec. 25 in "The Road to Ruin," with this cast :
Silky Al. Harris
Milford . . . Charles Erin Verner Footman . . . Lionel Barrymore Jenny . . Helen Mason Osbourne Mrs. Ledger .... Kate Horan
Widow Warren . . Mrs. John Drew
Goldfinch Sidney Drew
Sophia Freelove . Mrs. Sidney Drew Mr. Dornton . . George Osbourne Harry Dornton . . Clarence L. Holt Sulky . . . William R. Bernard
"The Rivals " was played the week of Jan. i, 1894, by this com- pany : Sidney Drew as Bob Acres, and Mrs. John Drew as Mrs. Malaprop. " Darkest Russia " came Jan. 8, and stayed for six weeks. It had this cast :
Ida Barosky . . . Selma Herman Countess KarsicheS . Louise Rial Baroness von Rhineberg, Carina Jordan Olga KarsichefE . . . Emma Field Alexis NaximoflF . Edgar L. Davenport
Paul Count Nazimoff . M. J. Jordan Ivan Barosky . . . Sheridan Block Constantine KarsichefF, Daniel Gilfether Nicholas Karsicheff . . Charles Dade General Septimus Cobb, Harry Hawk Omnisky . . . George W. Lynch
"The Land of the Midnight Sun" was seen Feb. 19; "A Man Among Men," March $; Corinne came March ig in "Hendrik Hudson;" Clara Morris appeared in "Camille," April 2, 3; "Claire," a version of Voss's "Eva," was presented for the first time April 4, and had this cast :
Clara Baker Rust
Grace Gayler Clark
Katherine Mars
. . Mamie Ryan
. . Clara Morris
John Hartner . . John Glendinning Dora Hemple
August Hemple . . . F. C. Harriott Mother Hartner
Alfred von Salten . . W. C. Kelly Mrs. SchoUer .
Carl Benton . . . J. K. Hutchinson Mrs. Benton .
Toinette Harriet Ford Claire . . .
"The New Magdalen" was seen April 6; "Camille," matinee April 7, and "Rende," night of April 7; "Hoodman Blind" came April 9, with Fred de Belleville as the star; " Rory of the Hill" was given April 23, and stayed two weeks, with James C. Roach as the star ; Chauncey Olcott appeared May 7 in " Mavourneen ; "
5o8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 1:1894
"A Trip to Chinatown" was done May 14; "Mavourneen," May 21; Callender's Georgia minstrels came May 28; "Tennessee's Pardner " was acted for the first time here June 5, with Cora van Tassell as the star. The season closed June 16, but the house was reopened June 27 for the benefit of T. J. Maguire, the treasurer.
The season of 1894-95 opened Aug. 27 with "Coon Hollow," which had this cast:
Philip Maury . . Jared Fuller > Ben Clark | Lem Stock well . Uncle Bob White Jean Bechmyer .
. C. E. Dudley
Roydon Erlynne
Lester Lonergan
Geo. W. Nichols
Louise Arnot
Clyde Horrod Rosie White Phoebe . . Chloe . . Dido . . Georgia
. This was Floy Crowell's New York d^but. with Steve Brodie, the "bridge jumper," as Sept. 10, and had this cast :
Jack Hobart . . . Thurlow Bleekman . Isidore Michelowsky ) Danny Gibbs J
Dismal Delaney . .
Geo. A. Wright Mark Lynch
. Frank Bush
. . Lew Bloom
Alice Drayton Mame Clancy
Floy Crowell
Ella Spencer
Alice Bushong
. Effie Smith
Lizzie Casselle
Louise Hamilton
"On the Bowery," the star, was seen
Helen McGregor
Blanche Livingstone ) Valprie Berp-ere Mag Driscoll ; ^^'^"^ iiergere
Bridget Carmody ) Hallelujah Jane |
Isabel Ward
This was not the first appearance on the stage of Steve Brodie, as was stated at the time. He was seen at Niblo's Garden in this city Feb. 22, 1892, in "Money Mad;" "Struck Oil" came Sept. 17 for two weeks, with this cast : John Stofel, Al. H. Wilson ; Eben Skinner, William Herbert; Flynn, Geo. M. Brennan; William Pearson, Milton Lipman; Sheriff, Geo. Howard; Lizzie Stofel, Jane Stuart; Susan Stofel, Emma Maddern Stevens. Chauncey Olcott first acted the " Irish Artist " Oct. i, and the cast was :
Maurice Cronin . . Chauncey Olcott Sir Robert Dean . . Daniel Gilfether Edmund Dean . Chas. F. Gotthold Cormac Cronin . . Harry Meredith Father Denis Mahone . J. W. Hague Jerry Sweeney . . . Luke Martin Paddy Blake .... Louis Haines
Mike Frank Peters
Kate Mahone Lotta Lynn
(now known as Lotta Linthicum) Lady Katharine Dean
Etta Baker Martin The Widow Blake . . Effie Germon
On Nov. 12 " The Brownies," a spectacle in three acts by Palmer Cox and Malcolm Doulgas, was presented for the first time in New York, and had this cast :
Queen Titania . Marie Louise Day Dame Brusilda . Maude Thompson
Daffodil Ida MuUe
Violet Louise Endicott
King Stanislaus . . . Charles Drew
Prince Florimel . . . Alice Johnson J. Chappie Goodform, Eugene Sanger Count Ronaldo . . Grace Hamilton Tom Binnacle . . Fred R. Runnells Reginald Mortarboard . A. W. Maflin
1 895]
THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE
509
Miss Zelma Rawlston appeared Dec. 12 as Titania. Mme. Nelson's aerial ballet was introduced in "The Brownies," Dec. 6. "Humanity," by Sutton Vane, was first seen here Feb. 4, 1 89s, and had this cast:
Manasses Marks Ikey Marks . Jerry Gratton . Paul Vosloo . Hans Kruger . Alma Dunbar .
Dord Davidson . . Sadie Price . J. E. Sullivan Ross D. O'Neal James E. Vinton . Phoebe Davies
Lieut. Bevis Cranbourne, J. R. Grismer
Sir Felix Cranbourne Lady Cranbourne Vera Cranbourne . Major Dangerfield Lieut. Bembrose . Keziah Penn . .
. Scott Cooper
Mary Davenport
. Bella Bucklen
Frazier Coulter
Chas. J. Jackson
Agnes Rose Lane
" The Shaughraun " was seen here March 4. William Hoey came March 25 in "The Flams." The house was closed April i, and "The Pace that Kills," by Geo. Hoey, was seen April 2 for the first time on any stage. Just before the curtain rose on the first night an injunction obtained by Sir Augustus Harris, of London, was served upon the manager restraining him from producing the piece on the ground that portions of it had been taken without per- mission from "The Run of Luck," a play written by Sir Augustus and the late Henry Pettitt.
There was a matinee, April 3, when the house closed until April 13, and "Queen of Night," by John C. Dixon, was acted for the first time here, and had this cast :
Anita de Lucca . Isabelle Pitt Lewis Eunice Beaudesert . Martha Ashdown
Susette Julia Lafler
Little Alma . . . Beatie Vaughan Alma Ferra .... Floy Crowell
Henri Derolois . . John C. Dixon Pierre St. George . . Chas. Hagar Victor St. George . Stephen Wright Alphonse de Montmorency
Eddie Heron Leon Rouge . . Alexander Kearney
This drama was originally called "The Victor." Its failure closed the house from April 16 until April 22, when "Captain Paul," by Edward E. Rose and Alfred M. de Lisser, was seen for the first time in this city. The cast was :
Captain Paul . . Ben Ironsides Philip Breville . Emanuel d'Audray Viscount Ormonde Marquis d'Audray
. Robert Hilliard Alfred M. de Lisser
Charles Sutton . Stanley Rignold . . Frank Dayton
Robert Ran son
Romany . . . William Humphrey Andy Moran .... Felix Haney
Jean William Fairbanks
Marquise d'Audray . Hattie F. Nefflen Marguerite Cecil Morris
Dan Sully came here May 20, in "The Corner Grocery." The theatre closed abruptly on Saturday, May 25, owing to the extreme heat. It reopened June 12 for T. J. Maguire's benefit.
The next season began Aug. 19, 1895, with the " Wicklow Post- man," with Eugene O'Rourke as the star, and Bettina Gerard in the soubrette's r61e. It was repeated a second week. " In Old Ken- tucky" came Sept. 2; Clara Morris appeared in "Camille," Sept. 15, 16, 17, and matinee Sept. 21, with J. M. Colville as Armand;
5IO A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1896
"Raymonde" was given matinee Sept. 18 and night of Sept. 21; "Miss Moulton" was seen Sept. 18, 19, 20; "Article 47," Sept. 23, 24, 27; "Miss Moulton," matinee Sept. 25, and night of Sept. 28. "Raymonde," Sept. 25, and matinee Sept. 28, when Clara Morris closed her engagement. Chauncey Olcott revived " Mavour- neen," Oct. 14. The policy of this house was changed on Oct. 21, when John D. Doris introduced the "continuous performance" scheme, giving vaudeville and drama each day from 12 M. until 1 1 p.m. The experiment lasted one week as the business was very bad. " The Celebrated Case " was acted the week by the dramatic company. Then vaudeville was dropped and "Lights O' London" was done Nov 4; " The Black Flag " came Nov. 1 1. Before the second week commenced, Doris withdrew and J. Wesley Rosenquest resumed the management. "A Merry World" was seen Nov. r8; Geo. W. Munroe appeared Nov. 25 in "A Happy Little Home;" "The Sidewalks of New York," by Scott Marble came Dec. 2 for two weeks; "The Twentieth Century Girl" was seen Dec. 30; "A Girl Wanted" was given Jan. 6, 1896, with Frank Bush as the star; "Saved from the Sea" was done Jan. 13; Chauncey Olcott came Jan. 20, in " Mavourneen " for four weeks. Olcott produced "The Irish Artist," Feb. 24; "The Minstrel of Clare," originally acted by Wm. J. Scanlan as the "Irish Minstrel," was played on March 2; Clara Morris appeared in "Camille" April 6-9, and matinde April 11; "Article 47," April 7-10; "Raymonde," matinde April 8, and night of April 11; and "Miss Moulton," night of April 8. "The Village Postmaster," a rural play by Alice E. Ives and Jerome H. Eddy, was first produced here April 13, and had this cast:
Seth Huggins ... M. A. Kennedy John Harper . . . Forrest Robinson Ben Deane . . . Edw. J. Morgan Ebenezer Todd . . James R. Smith Thomas Jefferson Huggins
Louis Wesley Caleb Springer . William Humphrey Rev. Charles Gibbs . Joseph L. Mason Silas Toner . . George K. Henrey
Jim Pennel . . Luther Schenck . Miranda Huggins Mary Barden . . Hatie Burley . . Samantha Huggins Letitia Bean
. Frank Russell
. John S. Terry
Bertha Creighton
Amelia Bingham
. Harriet Tord
Sadie Stringham
Rose Tiffany
Louisa Queenie Vassar
Mrs. Charles Gibbs . Blanche Weaver
"The Sunshine of Paradise Alley," by Denman Thompson and Geo. W. Ryer, was seen for the first time in New York May 11, and had this cast :
Jimmie Powers . . . John Walsh Huntington .... Frank Currier Eddie Duke .... Ben D. Ryer Nellie McNally (Sunshine), Julie Ring Widow McNally . Mrs. Charles Peters Helen Rich .... Marie Carlyle Uncle Dan .... Walter Lennox John O'Grady . . . John D. GriflSn
Eddie Ben Ryer
Danny Master Mara
Mrs. Pat Mara . . . Emma Chase
Pat Mara Frank Russell
Shorty Bob Frank Mar
Mrs. O'Grady . . . Emily Stowe Jenny Miss Mara
1897]
THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE
51
The theatre closed June 13, and the next season began Aug. 31, 1896, with "When London Sleeps," a melodrama in four acts, by Charles Darrell, seen for the first time in America. It had this cast:
Rodney Haynes . David Engleheart Furnaby Fuller . Roberti Jonesio . Sammy Blyth . . Bertie Broomhead Mark Blackwood .
. Edwin Walter Leander Blanden Geo. W. Murray Delancy Barclay . Harry Bewley Geo. C. Murphy Dwight Gaylor
P. C. Stone .... Arthur Barnes Hilda Corrode . Florence Ashbrooke Signora Roberti Jonesio . Ceni Havre
Carrie Jones Ella Baker
Maudie de Frere . . Vera de Noie
Leila Little Lillie Havre
Queenie Carruthers . Perdita Hudspeth
"A House of Mystery," by Frank Harvey, followed on Sept. 14; "The Black Crook," Sept. 21; "The Great Diamond Rob- bery," Sept. 28; George W. Munroe, Oct. 5, in "A Happy Little Home;" Joseph Arthur's new play "The Cherry Pickers," was seen Oct. 12, for the first time in this city, and continued until Jan. 25, 1897. The cast was:
John Nazare .
Col. Brough .
Brown . . . Lieut. York Corporal Jones
Smitty . . .
The Viceroy .
Mr. Guest . .
William Harcourt Ralph Delmore R. V. Ferguson W. P. Carleton Edward Poland Benjamin Dean . . Nat Jones Verner Clarges
Ayoob Geoffrey Stein
The Kansahma . . . Joseph Mason
Sygee Frank Inslee
Nourmallee .... Roselle Knott Mrs. O'Donnell-Duleep
Jennie Satterlee Rada . . . Ethel Knight Morrison
Chauncey Olcott followed Jan. 25, with his new play, Inniscarra," by Augustus Pitou, which had this cast:
Gerald O'Carroll . . Chauncey Olcott Lawrence Eyre . . . Paul Gilmore Squire O'Donoghue, Daniel Gilfether Capt. Robert O'Donoghue
Charles Riegel Squire Creswick .... W. J. Bean Pat Quinn Luke Martin
' Sweet
Michael W. H. Burton
Dennis Roach . . . . J. C. Hickey
Pat Imogene Washburn
Mike Ada Gilbert
Kate O'Donoghue . Georgia Busby
Bridget Lizzie Washburn
Nora Roach . . . Kitty Coleman
The house closed week of April 12, and reopened April 19 with a new third act written for " Inniscarra." "Mavourneen " was re- vived May 10 for one week. "Widow Goldstein," by Lillian Lewis, was produced May 17, with this cast: Sam Brittle, W. J. Ferguson; Cyrus Russell, R. F. Cotton; Jay Simpkins, George W. Wessells; Carl Donnerwetter, Sol Aiken; Hettie Goldstein, Jennie Reiffarth; Iza Simpkins, Laura Burt; Cora Arabella, Gertie Reynolds; Judith Simpkins, Sarah McVicker.
"The Alderman" was presented May 24, with Odell Williams as the star. The theatre closed May 29. The next season began Aug. 30, 1897, with "Shall We Forgive Her?" which ran four weeks. The cast was:
512 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsgs
Oliver West . Paul Elsworth James Stapleton Neil Garth . Reggie Walton Dr. McKerrow
. . W. H. Elwood . . John J. Farrell . . Edwin Arden . . E. T. Stetson Harry P. Webster . Thomas A. Wise
Jerry Blake Grace . . Joanna . . Nellie West Aunt Martha
. . James Lackaye Hannah May Ingham . . Gertrude Whitty . . Madeline Lack . . . Annie Wood
"The Sign of the Cross," by Wilson Barrett, came Sept. 27, and had this cast :
Marcus Superbus . . Charles Dalton
Nero W. E. Bonney
Tigellinus G. R. Peach
Lucinius, CEdile ... J. Monkhouse
Glabrio Hubert Druce
Philodemus . . . Harry Burcher
Servillius Harry Child
Strabo H. T. Harris
Virturius E. de Corsia
Poppea Marion Grey
Berenis Ettie Williams
Dacia Marjorie Cavania
Ancaria Agnes Scott
Daones Reba Isabel
Julia Lilian EUam
Cyrene L. Glashon
Edoni Lily Child
Mytelene ....■■ Helen de Corsia
Zoma Edith PauUin
Catia RitaTrekelle
CHRISTIANS.
Favius Basil Gill
Titus E. Williams
Melos J. Howard
Stephanus Mercia .
Gertrude Boswell Irene Rooke
Oct. 18 saw the first production on any stage of "Cumberland, '61," by Franklin Fyles, which had this cast:
Benner Ainsley John Lennox . Leslie Murdoch Gordon Grayne Adolphus . . Dirk Kanett . Mr. Manning .
. . C. G. Craig . W. J. Ferguson . . Frank Losee Edgar L. Davenport . Lionel Barrymore . John E. Kellerd . . S. K. Chester
Zeb . . . Ranee . . Absolom Alice Ainsley Mrs. Victor Pink . . . Mammy Han
. Richard Malchien . . Alvin Drehle . Richard Webster Florence Rockwell Amelia Summerville . . Violet Black . . Millie Sackett
Andrew Mack appeared here Nov. 29 in " An Irish Gentleman," by Ramsay Morris. The play had this cast :
Jack Shannon Stephen Tyrell Clifford Sherlock Lady Sherlock > Edwin Brandt > Father Lawler )
. Andrew Mack
Adolph Jackson
Richard J. Dillon
George W. Deyo
Hugh Dillon . Maura Sherlock Mrs. Fairleigh Easter . . . Peggy . . .
. Thomas Jackson . . Olive White
Florence Ashbrooke . . Marie Bates
Little Florence Opp
Jan. 24, 1898, Ward and Yokes were seen in "The Governor;" Chauncey Olcott came Jan. 31, in "Sweet Inniscarra;" Olcott closed his engagement March 5; "In Gay New York," was seen March 7; "A Hired Girl," March 14; "The Electrician," March 21; "The Pacific Mail," March 28; "The Girl from Paris," April 4, for two weeks; "The Hoosier Doctor," by Augustus Thomas, was produced April 18, with this cast: Dr. Willow, Digby Bell; Higgins, Frank Monroe; Parson Moss, Harry S. Robinson; Tom
1899: THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE 513
Bunce, Herman Hirschberg; Fred Dalrymple, Arthur Hoops; Grandma, Laura Joyce Bell ; Mrs. Bunce, Emma Butler ; Martha, Mabel Strickland; Harriet, Margaret Dale Owen; Alvira, Viola Miles; Little Rosie, Ethel Vance. "The Man-o'-War's Man " was seen April 25. The house was closed April 28, and the next season began Aug. 29, 1898, with "Devil's Island," by Arthur D. Hall, for the first time in this city. The cast was :
Maurice de La Tour, William Harcourt Prince Boris OrlofE . Ralph Delmore
General Regaud George Maxwell Victor Duvernay , Oscar Astor . ,
Emile La Croix
Warren Conlan
. Carlton Wells
Ernest Tarlton
Countess Emily Rigl
Pauline Adelyn Wesley
Gay Huntress .... Vera de Noie Elizabeth . . . Dorothy Rossmore Babette FoUiote . . Christie Maclean
"The Dawn of Freedom," by Miron J. Leffingwell, was produced Sept. 19, and stayed two weeks, with Laura Alberta as Paquita, Ethel Barrington as Julia Rodriquez, and Ida Glenn as Jane Fortune. J. H. Haverly's minstrels came here Oct. 3; "The Sign of the Cross " returned Oct. 10 for two weeks ; Chauncey Olcott reappeared Oct. 31 for two weeks in "Sweet Inniscarra;" "The Village Postmaster" was revived Nov. 14, and stayed seven weeks.
Hanlon's "Superba" was given Jan. 2, 1899; Chauncey Olcott appeared Jan. 9 in "A Romance of Athlone," by Aug. Pitou, acted for the first time, and with this cast :
Sir Philip Ronyane . Daniel Gilfether Margaret Ronyane, Etta Baker Martin Francis Ronyane . Dustin Farnum Dick Ronyane . . Chauncey Olcott Bessie Ronyane .... Tottie Carr Dick O'Brien .... Luke Martin Major Martin Manning, Paul Everton Rose Manning . . . Olive White Eleanor McBride . Grace Freeman
Hon. Standish Fitzsimmons
Richard Malchien
Stephen O'Grady Ann Shea . . . Robin MacMahon Molly MacMahon Mary MacMahon Ruth ....
J. C. Hickey
Lizzie Washburne
Chas. R. Gilbert
. Argyle Gilbert
Louise Marcelli
Marguerite Diamond
Bill Frank Bonn
The house was closed March 27, and reopened March 28 for two weeks with "Report for Duty," by J. K. Tillotson:
Earl Golden . . Hardin Dowling . General Golden . Clarence Fitzwell, Harry Weston Rodney Morton . General Robert E.
. . A. S. Lipman . . O. B. Thayer . Leslie Matthews Charles J. Jackson . . Frank Monroe . . . Harry Rich Lee, Wilson R. Long
Sergt. Ford . . Rastus .... Blanche Morton . Wynette Dowling Mrs. Gordon . . Carrie Golden Virginia Dowling
. Charles Edwards
. John W. Burton
. . . Beryl Hope
. . Olive Porter
Frances Lincoln
lone Chamberlain
. Selma Herman
Mathews and Bulger appeared April 10 in "Sad Sea Waves;" "Mother Goose," a musical extravaganza by Edgar Smith and Louis de Lange, was seen May i. This was a failure and the
VOL. II. — 33
514 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dgoo
theatre was abruptly closed May lo in consequence of unpaid salaries. It was reopened May 15 at reduced prices of admission with "The Victoria Cross," but it closed again in one week.
The next season began Aug. 31, 1899, with "A Young Wife," by J. K. Tillotson, which had this cast:
Hubert Douglass . . J. H. Gilmour Clarence Douglass, Malcolm Williams Judson Douglass, John L. Wooderson Mr. Marks . . . P. A. Anderson
Louis Frank Losee
Horace Greengage, Claude Gillingwater St. John .... Frank Sheridan
James Richard Quilter
Ethel Douglass . . Selma Herman Grace Douglass . . Charlotte Crane Mrs. Marks .... Sydney Cowell Stella . . . Margaret Dale Owen Newsboy Alma Earle
This play had been acted at Niblo's Garden and called "Dens and Palaces, or Two Lives. "
On Sept. II, Emmet C. King commenced as Hubert; Neil Florence opened Oct. 2 as Louis. "The Dairy Farm," by Eleanor Merron (Mrs. Archie Cowper) was produced Oct. 16, and continued until Dec. 25. The cast was : Squire Hurley, Percy Plunkett ; Sarah Newkirk, Jean Clara Walters ; Nathan Newkirk, Charles Hallock; Lucy, Grace Hopkins; Eunice Jane Perkins, Katherine Carlisle; Simon Krum, Arthur C. Saunders; Elias Pleugh, J. H. Hollingshead ; Deacon Shears, Seymour Stratton; Mrs. Shears, Melema Bardi ; Hanna Lize, Nelly Russell ; Old Pete, Harry Adams; Mary, Bertha St. Clair; Bob, M. M. Mur- ray; Dominie Cruikshank, Frank Richter; Hiram Cole, Richard Hinchcliff; Araminta, Eleanor Merron.
"The Village Postmaster" returned Dec. 25, with Archie Boyd as Seth Huggins; Chauncey Olcott returned Jan. 29, igoo, in "A Romance of Athlone. " Tim Murphy appeared here March 5, in " The Carpetbagger, " by Opie Read and Frank Pixley. The cast
was:
Melville Crance . . . Tim Murphy Bob Willitts .... John J. Shaw Major Henderson Reynolds
J. R. Armstrong Roy Fairburn
Guy Lummers
Jim
Old John Reynolds Wiley Jones . . Capt. Poynter . .
James Manley
Olney J. Griffin
Joe Fitzpatrick
. Robert Gage
. John Henton
Edward Kingsley
Speaker of the House . Henry Wolf Auditor . . . . . . E. J. Stanley
Chairman .... Robert Dudley
Sheriff Eugene Thomas
Bulger A. Kanine White
Mrs. Fairburn . Nellie Yale Nelson Lucy Linford . . . Matilde Weffing Old Mrs. Reynolds . Grace Houston Nellie Crance . . . Dorothy Sherrod
March 19 "The Great Ruby "was presented, with Rose Coghlan as Lady Garnet; Minnie Seligman as the Adventuress; John T. Sullivan, the Detective ; Cuyler Hastings, the Indian Prince.
The house closed May 12. The next season began Aug. 30, with Dan Sully in Daniel Hart's play "The Parish Priest," which had this cast :
igoi]
THE FOURTEENTH STREET THEATRE
5^5
Rev. John Whalen Dr. Cassidy . . Dr. Welsh . . . James Welsh . . Michael Sullivan .
. . . Dan Sully
. Harry Gwynette
Theo. Babcock
Joseph L. Traicey
. . Gerald Griffin
Frank Dougher Agnes Cassidy Helen Durkin . Katherine Corrigan, Mildred Lawrence
Walter Horton
Agnes Rose Lane
Flora Fairchild
The theatre was closed Oct. i and 2 and reopened Oct. 3 with "Lost River," by Joseph Arthur, for the first time in New York. The cast was :
Robert Blessing . William Courtleigh Thomas Middleton . . John Winthrop Claude Middleton . . Hans Robert Gladys Middleton
Eugenie Thais Lawton Bill Loucks . . . P. A. Anderson Ezra Cookus .... Charles Abbe Gabriel Gates . . James Lackaye
Alexander Pickles Bard .... Big Jake Wolf Old Abe Levine Mother Wirtz . Ora .... Angle VoUner . Grandma Gates
. Dan Williams H. M. Anderson . . Frank Beal . Fred Watson . Mrs. Preston . Mary Sanders Mabel Taliaferro . . Ada Dwyer
On Nov. 12 the principals of the cast of "Lost River" went to Boston and acted the play at the Park Theatre for one night, and the principals of the " Lost River " company then playing in Boston, came to New York and were seen in the play here. Violet Rand of the Boston company remained here for the rest of the engagement, and Mary Sanders continued in Boston. Dec. 24 "The Village Postmaster" was revived; Jan. 7, 1901, Chauncey Olcott appeared in "Garret O'Magh," by Augustus Pitou, for the first time in this city, and with this cast:
Garrett O'Magh . . Chauncey Olcott Mrs. Mary Devlin
Margaret Fitzpatrick Roger Nagle . . . Charles Abbott Eileen Nagle .... Edith Barker
May Nagle Tottie Carr
Sir Horace Wilton . Daniel Gilfether Louise Wilton . . Louise Marcelli Alfred Spencer . Richard Malchien Rufus Hardy .... Paul Everton Josephine . . . Katherine Willard Jerry Quigly . . . George Brennan
Military Attach^ . . Henry Watson Darby Lynch .... Luke Martin Maggie Lynch . Elizabeth Washburne Old Mrs. Lynch . Etta Barker Martin Darby Lynch, Jr. . . Clara Cubitt
Pat Lynch Bert Buckley
Nora Lynch Gretta Carr
Mollie Lynch .... Pese Glaser
Dennis Ernest Havens
Annie Mable Andrews
Peasant Man .... Edward Smith Peasant Woman . . Jennie Buckley
On March 18 " A Romance of Athlone " was acted by Olcott, and continued for two weeks. The house was closed Holy Week (com- mencing March 25), and reopened April i with Olcott in "Mavour- neen." There was no performance April 11, as Olcott was ill. "Sweet Inniscarra" was revived May 6, and the theatre closed May 25, Olcott having acted here twenty weeks.
5l6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Cise?
LYRIC HALL
LYRIC HALL was situated at 723, 725, 727 Sixth Avenue, between Forty-first and Forty-second Street. It was opened Nov. 15, 1867, by Mr. Trenor, with a series of concerts by Theo. Thomas' orchestra. Minnie Hauck and Sig. Severini were among the vocalists. De Cordova lectured here Dec. 26; George Vanden- hoff gave readings Jan. 23, 24, 1868; De Cordova lectured Feb. 3, followed Feb. 11 by James E. Murdoch with a reading. Shortly after this it ceased to exist as a place of entertainment.
STEINWAY HALL
BEYOND doubt the most famous concert room in New York and the one richest in musical history was "Steinway Hall," erected by Steinway & Sons, immediately in the rear of their piano warerooms, 71 and 73 East Fourteenth Street, between Union Square and Irving Place. The hall, with its extension, ran clear through the block, from Fourteenth to Fifteenth Street, where the main hall had a frontage of one hundred feet, the entire ground floor, from street to street, being occupied by the salesrooms of the firm. The seating capacity was twenty-five hundred, with standing room for five hundred additional persons. Steinway Hall was opened Oct. 31, 1866, with a concert by the H. L. Bateman company, which was composed of Mme. Parepa, Carl Rosa, Signors Brignoli, Ferranti, Fortuna, S. B. Mills, J. L. Halton, with Theodore Thomas' orchestra. They gave forty- one Sunday concerts, under the direction of H. L. Bateman and L. F. Harrison. Mme. Ristori gave a reading from the Italian poets Nov. 13.
A musical festival commenced June 3, 1867, and continued one week, during which "The Messiah," "The Creation," "Elijah," and other classic musical works were interpreted by Mme. Parepa, Zelda Seguin, Theo. Thomas, E. J. Connolly, F. L. Ritter, Mme. Raymond Ritter, Mrs. Emmeline Reed, W. J. Hill, George Simp- son, Mme. Carman Poch, Baragli and Bellini, Herr Kopta, J. N. Pattison, G. W. Morgan, G. W. Colby, Mr. and Mrs. Dalimore, Miss Hutchings, Miss A. Harrison, Jules Lombard, Henry Tucker, Miss Gilbert, A. H. Pease, Mr. Matzka, the New York Harmonic society and a full orchestra. Anna Lacoste gave a reading June 13. Arthur Matthison made his American d^but on Sunday evening, Sept. 16.
The concert season of 1867-68 commenced Oct. i, under the direction of L. F. Harrison, The artists were Mme. Parepa, Carl
1869] STEINWAY HALL 517
Rosa, Leopold de Meyer, pianist ; Jenny Kempton, Theo. Thomas and orchestra, and G. W. Colby. Concerts were then given on Thursdays and Sundays. In addition to those already meationed, the following singers were heard during the season : Anna Acker- mann, soprano, W. J. Hill, Mrs. Varian Hoffmann, J. R. Thomas, Sig. Randolfi, Mile. Eliza Lumley, Letchi, Adolph Hennig, Oscar Pfeiffer, Sig. Abella, G. Simpson, B. and G. F. Lister- mann, A. Dessane, S. P. Warren, Sig. Ferranti, W. R. Johnson, Antonia Henne, Michael Turner, Brookhouse Bowler, Mile. Gaz- zaniga, Sig. Ardivani, Clementine Bernard, Mile. Angiolina Ghioni, Mile. Gabriella Feninger, Mme. Natalie Testa. Among other concerts given were those by Theo. Thomas, Oscar Pfeiffer, Kennedy, Scottish vocalist; Jerome Hopkins, Fanny Landsmann, and Mme. Kapp-Young.
Readings were given by Charles Dickens, Frances Anne Kem- ble, Geo. Vandenhoff, J. E. Murdoch, Charles Eytinge, and lect- ures by Du Chaillu, De Cordova, etc. A series of oratorios were given by Mr. L. F. Harrison, the artists being Mme. Parepa- Rosa, J. R. Thomas, George Simpson, Theo. Thomas, F. L. Ritter, E. J. Connolly, and G. W. Colby.
Louise Kapp-Young is now known as Mme. Luisa Capparina, and is living in this city, teaching vocal music. She made her debut at the Court Opera, Munich, Bavaria, and afterwards sang at La Scala, Milan, and in Germany, Austria, and Russia. She appeared Oct. 30, at the Academy of Music, this city, under Maret- zek's management, as Selika in " L' Africaine. " She afterwards sang in concerts with Parepa-Rosa at this hall.
Charles Dickens' readings from his own works occurred Dec. 9, 10, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19, 20, 26, 27, 30, 31, Jan. 3, 9, 10, 1868; April 13, 14, 16, 17, 20, when he took his farewell of the American public. Fanny Kemble gave readings in March and April. Mme. Ristori gave an entertainment Sunday, June 7, for the benefit of the widows and orphans of Italian soldiers.
The season of 1868-69 commenced Oct. 26 with the American debut of Mrs. Scott-Siddons in Shakesperian readings. She con- tinued for five nights and one matinde. Her American debut as an actress was made Nov. 14, same year, at the Boston Museum, in "As You Like It." L. R. Shewell appeared as Orlando, Wil- liam Warren as Touchstone, W. H. Smith as Jacques, and Miss Sherlock as Celia. Tickets to all parts of the house were fixed at $1.50 each.
She appeared Nov. 29 for the second time at that theatre as Lady Teazle, and the receipts were ^1,496. Her first appearance in this city as an actress was on Nov. 30 the same year, at the Worrell Sisters' Theatre, as Rosalind in "As You Like It."
The Kennedy Family, Scotch vocalists came Sept. 13, 1869.
5l8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D871
The Franks Family, five in number, made their American debut Sept. 17. Carlotta Patti was heard in concert Sept. 25. De Cor- dova commenced a course of lectures Oct. 25. " Our New Clergy- man," "Wiffin vs. Sniffin," "Breach of Promise of Marriage," and "The Sham Family at Home," were the titles given to his discourses.
William H. Pope recited Byron's "Manfred," on the afternoons of Nov. 5, 17, 26. Mme. Anna Bishop and her company gave con- certs Nov. 10, 15, when M. Koualski, pianist, was heard. A con- cert by the Russian opera company was given Nov. 27. Olive Logan lectured on "Girls," Dec. 17.
E. Mollenhauer's cantata, "The Passions," was performed Sat- urday and Sunday evenings, Feb. 12, 13, 1870, and Edwin Booth read Collins' ode to "The Passions" (on Saturday evening), in connection with the musical composition. There was a chorus of two hundred singers and an orchestra of sixty performers ; Edward Mollenhauer, conductor.
Christine Nilsson made her American debut in concert March 14, and sang again March 22. Mme. Manzocchi first appeared here April 17, and during the month Mrs. Macready gave a series of drawing-room recitals. Her selections were : A religious alle- gory called "The Changed Cross," the opening scene from "A Midsummer Night's Dream," and the sleep-walking scene from "Macbeth." Her voice was singularly sweet, full, and pure. The Vienna Lady orchestra, with Mile. Anna Elzer (twelve years of age), soprano singer, and Jacob Muller, baritone, made their American d^but Sept. 11, 1871, under the management of Fred- erick Rullman, who brought them from Europe. They closed their engagement Sept. 23.
George Dolby gave a series of ballad concerts Oct. 9, 10, 11, 12, 18, 19, and the artists who appeared were: Edith Wynne, soprano; Mme. Patey, contralto; W. H. Cummings, tenor; J. G. Patey, bass; Charles Santley, baritone; Lindsay Sloper, pianist. Mendels- sohn's "Elijah" was sung Oct. 31. The Harmonic society, under Dr. Peck, rendered the choruses. Mme. Patey, Santley, and Miss Wynne were the soloists. The vocal numbers of " Faust " were sung Nov. I, with Nilsson in the leading r61e, James as Mephis- topheles, M. Capoul as Faust, M. Barre as Valentine, and Miss Carey as Siebel.
On Nov. 14-21, concerts were given by Prince George Nicholas Galitzen's Russia company. There were scenes from Glinko's opera, "The Life of the Czar." J. N. Pattison was announced as solo pianist, but his place was taken at short notice by Mr. Levy. The selections for the second concert were: "Emancipation Fantasie" also for chorus and orchestra; the "Troika" ("Coach- man's song"); the Polonaise from Glinko's opera, "The Life for
1879] STEINWAY HALL 519
the Czar," Warlamoff's "Red Sarafan," and a wild, rugged, or- chestral product, "A Circassian March," founded on a local melody, arranged by G. Karlberg.
Edwin Forrest gave readings from Shakespeare and other poets, commencing Nov. 19 with "Hamlet," and Nov. 22, "Othello." The Dolby troupe reappeared in concert Nov. 28-30, and matinee Dec. 2. Carlotta Patti gave a concert September, 1872, assisted by Sig. Mario. J. M. Bellew, father of Kyrle Bellew, gave a reading Feb. 8, 1873. Charlotte Cushman gave readings March 17, of "King Henry VHL ;" March 19, selection.s from "Romeo and Juliet;" March 21, "Macbeth;" and March 22, miscellaneous readings. Mme. Anna Bishop was heard in concert May 10, 1873. Pauline Canassa, Drasdil, Mme. Feretti, Alfred Wilkie, J. R. Thomas, L. G. Gottschalk, A. H. Pease, and others appeared.
Charlotte Cushman gave readings Jan. 31, Feb. 2-4, 1874. Titiens made her American debut Oct. 4. She died Oct. 3, 1877. Frederic MacCabe made his American debut Oct. 14, in a "ventriloquial, musical, and saltatorial melange." Mile. lima di Murska began a season of concerts Sept. 26, 1875, under the management of D. De Vivo. Teresa Carreno, Ferranti, Sauret, and Gaetano Braga were in the company.
• Annette Essipoff, Russian pianist, made her American debut Nov. 14, 1876. Martha Blanke, pianist, first appeared May 5, 1877. Master Herman Rietzel, pianist, made his ddbut May 10. George Jones, the Count Joannes, assisted by his pupil, Avonia Fairbanks, appeared Jan. 12, 1878, in scenes from "Othello," "Hamlet," "Richard HI.," and "Macbeth." August Wilhelmj, German vio- linist, made his first appearance here Sept. 26, 1878. The Red Hussar Band, of Hamburg, Germany, were first heard in America (in public) Nov. 2. Edouard Remenyi, Hungarian violinist, re- appeared in America, Nov. 1 1. Herman Linde, a German actor, made his ddbut here Jan. 8, 1879, as an English reader. He gave "Macbeth," which was repeated Jan. 11.
Mrs. Scott-Siddons reappeared here during the winter of 1879. This lady did not make what is called an " unequivocal success " until her return visit. Her beauty, of the highest and most intel- lectual type, and her dignity of demeanor, made her a welcome visitor. On April 23, 1888, this lady reappeared here, and intro- duced her adopted son, Henry Waller, pianist. In his childhood Mr. Waller was known in this country and in Europe as " Sera- phael," a boy musician of extraordinary precocity, In 1876 he met Mrs. Siddons, who was much impressed by his ability, and adopted him as her son. At her expense he was educated in Eng- land, and afterwards completed his musical studies on the conti- nent under the guidance of such masters as Von Biilow and Liszt. Mrs. Scott-Siddons read scenes from "Much Ado About Nothing,"
520 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [isss
"Macbeth," and "Henry V." Mr. Waller played compositions by Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, Grieg, and Weber-Tausig.
Berlioz's musically dramatic legend, "La Damnation de Faust," was given Feb. 14, 1880. Carrie Moses, contralto, made her debut April 14. Marie Schelle, mezzo-soprano singer, made her initial public appearance Oct. 21. The Franko Family appeared Dec. 8. Mme. Anna Bishop reappeared in this city Feb. 7, 1881. Louise Reynolds, soprano, made her New York d^but Feb. 28. Leslie Main English, vocalist and lecturer, was heard Sept. 27. Adelina Patti's reappearance in this country was made here Nov. 9. G. Magrath, pianist, first appeared in this city Nov. 10, and Marie Schelle sang the same night. Jennie Claus, violinist, first ap- peared in New York, Nov. 11. Alex. Lambert, Polish pianist, was heard Nov. 18. Mme. Caroline Zeiss, dramatic soprano, re- appeared in concert Nov. 27. Michael Banner, boy violinist, gave his first concert Feb. 4, 1882. The Royal Handbell ringers ap- peared Feb. 10. Eily Coghlan (sister of Rose Coghlan), soprano, sang in concert May 15. Miss Fairfax made her d^but as a dra- matic reader Nov. 27, 1883.
Mme. Christine Nilsson reappeared in New York Nov. 28. Her reappearance in America was made Nov. i, at Music Hall, Boston, Mass. Gounod's oratorio, "The Redemption," had its first production in America Dec. 6.
Helen Hopekirk, pianist, made her debut Dec. 20, 1883. Fanny Hunt d'Alma made her ddbut at a concert May 2, 1884. The first public rehearsal of Franz Der Stucken's Novelty Concerts took place Oct. 24, when was performed, for the first time in America, Brahms' third symphony in F major (op. 90).
Victoria Morosini Hulskamp made her professional debut as a concert singer Nov. 20. Paul McSwyney's " Irish Idyll " was sung for the first time Nov. 27. Amelia Goldberg-Brillanti made her American d^but in concert Dec. 5. Fairbanks & Cole gave a banjo concert Dec. 8. Master Jacob Friedberger, pianist, made his debut March 10, 1885. Clara Bernetta made her New York bow in concert March 23. The oratorio, "The Rose of Sharon," was sung for the first time in America April 16.
Master Bernhard Sisheimir, pianist, made his New York debut Jan. 14, 1886. Nothing of note took place here until Nov. 13, 1888, when Moritz Rosenthal, the Hungarian pianist, made his d6but and created a sensation. Sig. Campanini appeared Nov. 16, 1888. Clementina de Vere, soprano, made her American ddbut, on this occasion and sang arias from "Lucia," "Dinorah," and also " Home, Sweet Home." She possessed a soprano voice rang- ing as high as F, and the execution was more remarkable than her voice. In the company were Sig. Steple, tenor; Sig. Carbone, buffo; Sig. Bologna, basso cantante; Marie Groebel, contralto; Mile. Fabbri; and Sig. Ferrario, accompanist.
1867] THE EIGHTH AVENUE OPERA HOUSE 521
On April 23, 1890, Otto Hegner gave a piano recital (his last in America). On April 26 the last concert ever given in this hall occurred. Having of late years failed to pay, the Steinways decided to devote the building to commercial purposes solely. A lecture by H. E. Krehbie on May 2, 1890, on "The Precursors of the Pianoforte," illustrated by a famous collection of old instru- ments, was the closing performance. The Steinway organists in- clude Geo. F. Bristow, Geo. W. Morgan, Samuel P. Warren, and Dudley Buck ; its pianists, Anton Rubenstein, Annette Eissipoff, Rafael Joseffy, Theodore Ritter, Max Pinner, Teresa Carreno, Moritz Rosenthal, Anton Strelezka, Adele Aus der Ohe, Alexan- der Lambert, Richard Hoffman, Julia Riv6-King, Otto Hegner, Eugene d' Albert, and the Chevalier de Kontski; its violinsts, Dengremont, Wieniauwski, Vieuxtemps, Ole Bull, Wilhelmj, Sarasate, Camilla Urso, Musin, Richard Arnold, Remenyi, the Frankos, and Max Bendix; and its 'cellists, Gaetano Braga, Carl Werner, Frederick Bergner, Victor Herbert, and Adolphe Fischer.
The gentlemen who had conducted there include, besides Theo- dore Thomas, Carl Bergman, Luigi Arditti, Leopold and Walter Damrosch, Wilhelm Gericke, Anton Seidl, Max Spicker, F. Van der Stucken, Max Maretzek, Franz Abt, Adolph Neuendorfl, and Arthur Nikisch.
CHASE'S HALL
ON the southwest corner of Eighth Avenue and Thirty-fourth Street now occupied as a storage warehouse, was Chase's Hall. A large room on the second floor was fitted up with a small stage, and opened in May, 1867, with a minstrel company, under the management of H. A. Chase. It was not a success as such, and Josh Hart and Frank Kerns took a lease of it for a few months. They opened July 20, same year, with a first-class variety company. The name of the hall was changed to "The Eighth Avenue Opera House," and a good working company was secured, who did specialty acts, and finished with a farce. William B. Cavanagh was stage manager, and David Braham, leader of orchestra. In the dramatic company were : D. Oakley, Josh Hart, W. B. Cav- anagh, Frank Kerns, Geo. Warren, Dick Ralph, Fred Boniface, and Florence Wells. Among the specialty people were: J. W. Clarke, the Broadway Boys, Laura Le Claire (then Mrs. Josh Hart, now known as Mrs. Will Sands), Helene Smith (Mrs. Frank Kerns), Prendergast, Gardner, and Harry Bloodgood, and at inter- vals, some of the best to be found in the profession. " 444 " Broad- way was in the height of its popularity at this time, and quite a rivalry existed between Josh Hart and Bob Butler (manager of
522 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D867
"444"} to secure the best people. In consequence large salaries were paid. Mr. Hart gave Johnny Thompson ;^i5oaweek to do a song and dance, and Little Mac ;^ioo weekly. The place would not hold money enough to warrant this, as it was but a flat floor with no gallery, and so it closed in December of the same year.
BANVARD'S MUSEUM
THE building now known as "Daly's Theatre" was on its first appearance as a place of amusement called " Banvard's Mu- seum." It was situated at 1221 Broadway, west side, one door below Thirtieth Street. It was the first building erected expressly for museum purposes in this city and it covered forty thousand square feet of land. It contained rooms for curiosities, and an auditorium for a theatre. In the lecture room was Banvard's Panorama of the Mississippi. There were three tiers in the audi- torium, capable of seating about two thousand persons. The house was opened June 17, 1867, with S. B. Dufifleld, stage manager; John W. Albaugh, leading man; Julia Nelson, leading lady; Frank Evans, H. B. Phillips, Samuel Knapp, G. W. Metkiff, M. C Daly, Fanny Stocqueller, Mrs. M. A. Berrel (afterwards Mrs. Charles Nichols), Mrs. J. R. Scott, Marion Somers, Mrs. Howard, Mrs. Talbott, Miss Wyman, Miss Lewis, Miss Williams, J. B. Phillips, John Chatterton, D. W. Miller, Messrs. Williams, Mack, Murray, North, Melville, and Rikeman. It was open before noon, and two dramatic performances were given each day. ( The opening enter- tainments, afternoon and evening, were Banvard's Panorama of the Mississippi, an address written by Jonas B. Phillips and spoken by Harry B. Phillips; an operatic chorus, "The Hymn of Four Nations," Fanny Stocqueller as France, Ada Monck as England, Fred Williams as Russia, S. B, Duffield as America; the burlettaof "Jenny Lind at Last," and "A Husband for an Hour." Farces and a musical melange were given for the afternoons of the second week, while " Rob Roy " was the evening attraction. " The Postil- ion of Bonville " (which was " Eustache Baudin " under another name) was the bill for July i. Professor Logrenia, magician, commenced July 8. "Nobody's Daughter," a dramatization of Miss Braddon's novel, by Fred Maeder and Chandos Fulton, was produced Aug. 12, with John W. Albaugh, Fred Maeder, and Wm. Harris in the cast. This was withdrawn Aug. 31. When this house was reopened Oct. 3 it was called "Banvard's Museum AND Theatre." "The Devil's Auction," by Arthur Cuyas Armengol, was the opening attraction. John De Pol was the new manager ; he had brought from Europe a large corps de ballet. The dramatic company were Robert McWade, H. B. Phillips, M. C.
1868: WOOD'S MUSEUM & METROPOLITAN THEATRE 523
Daly, E. Mortimer, J. R Phillips, D. W. Miller, J. Thomson, S. B. Duffield, Fanny Stocqueller, Fanny Reeves, Ada Meyers, Emma Somers, and Hattie Thome. Sig. Ronzani superintended the ballets, and the premih'es danseuses were Miles. Elisa Blasina, Augusta Sohlke, Ermesilda Diana, Eugenio Lupo, male dancer, Eugenio Ricci, and M. Giovanni Lupo. Sig. Tomaro and Charles Lawrence were interested in the production. Giuseppini Mor- lacchi, premiere danseuse, made her American ddbut on Oct. 23. "The Devil's Auction" continued until early in December, when Mr. De Pol withdrew from the house, and took the spectacle to the Academy of Music. After being closed for three weeks, Ban- vard's reopened Dec. 21, with "Our Mutual Friend," dramatized from Dickens' novel. "The Willow Copse" was produced on Jan. I, 1868, with H. B. Phillips, M. C. Daly, John Matthews, J. Moore, D. Myron, J. D. Miller, J. Thomson, Claude Burroughs, J. R. Healey, Chas. Newton, Louisa Eldridge, the Misses Proud- foot, Lillie Eldridge, and Linne in the cast. "The Forest King" and "Day After the Wedding," Jan. 13; "Nobody's Daughter," Jan. 27, for a fortnight, with Dan Myron, John Matthews, Chas. Warwick, Chas. E. Newton, J. Ludlow, R. Knowles, J. Thomson, J. Hendricks, Miss Proudfoot, Miss A. Linne, and Lillie Eldridge in the cast. " The Ticket of Leave Man " was played Feb. 27, with Mary Mitchell as May Edwards ; John Albaugh, Bob Brierly ; Dan Myron, Hawkshaw; Lillie Eldridge, Sam Willoughby; and Louisa Eldridge, Mrs. Willoughby. "Round Heads and Cava- liers " was seen Jan. 24, with J. W. Albaugh as Marston, Welsh Edwards as Vermont, John Matthews as Anthony, D. Myron as Vemey, Mary Mitchell as Juliet, and Lillie Eldridge as Wilder- pate. Then came "The Octoroon," "Uncle Tom's Cabin," "Ten Nights in a Barroom," and "Oliver Twist," in succession. "Rip Van Winkle" and "Cousin Schneider" were acted March 25, and the season closed March 3a
John Banvard died at the house of his son, at Watertown, S. D., of heart failure. May 16, 1891.
Morlacchi died in East Billerica, Mass., July 23, 1886.
The following season opened Aug. 31, 1868, with George Wood as manager, who, after making extensive alterations, again changed the name of the house to "Wood's Museum and Metropolitan Theatre. "
The entertainments commenced at eleven o'clock A. M., with an exhibition of the living curiosities, among whom were the Siamese Twins, Sophia Ganz the dwarf, and General Grant, Jr. The theatrical performances began at two o'clock with an inaugural address by P. T. Bamum, after which he introduced Gea Wood, with Samuel Colville, who was interested in the management.j The operettas, "Married by Lanterns" and "Sixty-six," were sung
524 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1869
by Susan and Blanche Galton, Mary Pyne Galton, and Thomas Whiffen. This was the American debut of Blanche and Susan Galton and Thomas Whiffen. The Galtons are nieces of the once famous Louisa Pyne, their mother being Mary Pyne, sister of Louisa. Blanche is the widow of Thomas Whiffen, and Susan married Alfred Kelleher. Maggie Mitchell appeared Aug. 31, in the evening, as Lorle, supported by James W. Collier, Louis Mestayer, M. C. Daly, J. B. Curran (stage manager), George Mitchell, G. C. Davenport, Sol Smith, Mary Wells, Alice and Kate Logan.
The Lydia Thompson Burlesque company engaged in England by Samuel Colville, made their American debut Sept. 28, in "Ixion," preceded by "To Oblige Benson." In the latter Harry Beckett made his American debut as Trotter Southdown. " Ixion " had this cast:
Ixion Lydia Thompson
Jupiter Ada Harland
Mercury Lisa Weber
Ganymede . . . Geo. C. Davenport Bacchus .... Louis J. Mestayer Mars Sol Smith, Jr.
Venus .... Pauline Markham
Juno Alice Logan
Cupid Grace Logan
Minerva Harry Beckett
Queen Dia James Barnes
" Ixion " and " To Oblige Benson " were played every evening, and at matinees on Wednesdays and Saturdays, for three weeks, the farce being then changed to "The Water Witches." On Nov. 2, this in turn gave way to " Did You Ever Send Your Wife to Jersey.' " Colonel Small and Commodore Foote, dwarfs, M. Bihin, giant ; Mrs. Battersby, giantess ; Mr. Battersby, the skeleton ; Adah Briggs, fat woman ; and Zebodi Luti, Circassian girl, were added to the living curiosities on Nov. 9. On Dec. 14, "The Quiet Family" preceded "Ixion," and was continued until Dec. 26, when the burlesque was withdrawn, after its one hundred and second consecutive performance. During this period the matinde dramatic performances were "Asmodeus," "Perfection," "The Bonnie Fishwife," "The Giant of Palestine," and "My Neighbor's Wife." The next burlesque was Wm. Brough's "Ernani," pro- duced the evening of Dec. 28, preceded by "A Quiet Family." Lydia Thompson was Ernani; Miss Weber, Don Juan; Miss Har- land, Donna Elvira; Mr. Mestayer, Don Ruy; Mr. Beckett, Jago; W. J. Hill (his first appearance in America), Scampa; M. C. Daly, Roguey ; J. Barnes, Vagabondi ; Kate Mortimer, Ricardo, and Kate Logan, Juana.
On Jan. 18, 1869, "Ernani" and two scenes from "Ixion" were presented, which bill continued until Jan. 30, when the season closed, and the company went to Niblo's Garden. Lisa Weber died at Buffalo, N. Y., Oct. 23, 1887. After a brief starring tour with various burlesque companies she became too stout to continue
1869] WOOD'S MUSEUM & METROPOLITAN THEATRE 525
in that business. She finally drifted into the variety theatres, and was married to W. S. Mullaly, the musical director.
This was the American debut of Rose Massey, a very handsome blonde and a clever actress. She died in this city July 23, 1883, of consumption, aged thirty-two years. Among those present at her funeral were her physician Dr. G. H. Wynkoop, Tony Pastor and wife, and two lady friends who had cared for her through her three years' illness. When H. J. Montague came to this country as leading man for Wallack's Theatre, Rose Massey instituted pro- ceedings against him for breach of promise. He died before the case came to trial. She returned to England, but soon afterwards revisited America, and lived here in retirement until her death, very few of her friends knowing that she was in the country.
" Ernani " and the second and third scenes of " Ixion " was the bill Jan. 21, 22, 1869; for the matinee, Jan. 21, "Kate Kearney" and a farce ; matinee and evening, Jan. 23, " Ernani " and " Ixion," which bill was repeated for the closing week of Jan. 25. There was no matin6e Feb. i and in the evening " Little Toddlekins " and Brough's burlesque, "The Field of the Cloth of Gold," was presented for the first time. The cast of the latter was :
Francis I. . . . Darnley. . . . Henry VIII. . . Duke of Suffolk . Von Scrascher Sir Guy, the Cripple Le Sieur de Boissy TSte de Veau . . Queen Katherine .
W. J. Florence . Rose Massey Louis Mestayer . . Rosa Cook J. de Bonay . Sol Smith, Jr. . Lillie Eldridge Fred G. Maeder . . M. C. Daly
Lady Constance English Herald French Herald Von Schlascher Von Mascher . Citizen . . . Anne Boleyn . Rose La Foix .
Mrs. W. J. Florence Alice Mortimer Aggie Wood . H. Stuart James Barnes . G. Mitchell Alice Logan . Kate Logan
On Feb. 8 Fanny Herring appeared as Ixion, at the matinees. On Feb. 15 the burlesque of "Fra Diavolo" was played, also "The Field of the Cloth of Gold," the Florences appearing in both. Between the pieces there was a ballet given by Miles. Morlacchi, Mazzeri, Baretta, and Albertini, Sig. G. Constantine, and La Petite Augustine, and ballet corps. The burlesque of "The Field of the Cloth of Gold " was withdrawn Feb. 27.
"The Ticket of Leave Man" was revived March i, with the Florences in the principal r61es, and Alex. Fitzgerald as Jim Dalton. "Aladdin" and the ballet of "Esmeralda" were pre- sented matinde March 15. The Florences took a benefit March 19; "The Colleen Bawn," March 22. Miss Alice Marriott ap- peared here March 29 as Hamlet, with J. F. Cathcart as the Ghost, G. F. Devere as the King, J. W. Albaugh as Laertes, and Rosa Cook as Ophelia.
This was the American d^but of Miss Marriott. At the close of this engagement she made a brief starring tour, returning to
526 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D869
England in December, 1869. She was the wife of Robert Edgar, a London manager. During her stay of three weeks she played Hamlet, Pauline in "The Lady of Lyons," Mrs. Haller in "The Stranger," Margaret Elmore in "Love's Sacrifice," and Bianca in "Fazio." During the week commencing April 19, "The Con- script," with Mr. Cathcart and Ada Harland as the principals, and " Aladdin " were played. At the matinees stock pieces were done until May 8. There were no performances from April 24 to May 8, when an English pantomime company, under the direc- tion of Mercer H. Simpson, of the Birmingham Theatre Royal, appeared in the burlesque pantomime of "Robinson Crusoe." Marie Longmore played Robinson Crusoe; Marion Taylor, Elf; Bella Pateman, Submarina; Joseph Irving, Will Atkins; J. Wal- lace, Kickaboo; R. Pateman, Friday and Harlequin; Chrisdee, Policeman; C. Abbott, Clown; T. Chapman, Pantaloon; Mile. Feder, Columbine ; and Miss Chapman, Harlequina. This panto- mime was played afternoon and evening until June 12.
The Gregory Combination came June 14, with Hooley's min- strels, from Brooklyn. They occupied the house for two weeks, appearing afternoon and evening. Edward Eddy began a five weeks' engagement on June 28. On Aug. 2 the Worrell Sisters jvere seen in "Lalla Rookh." The season closed Aug. 21.
The next regular season began Aug. 30, 1869, when the house was called "Wood's Museum and Menagerie." In the company were A. L. Parkes, business manager; Frank Evans, J. M. Ward, William Fleming, Thos. W. Keene, Charlotte Stanley, John Mor- ton, J. L. de Bonay, James Barnes, Collins and Rooney, Lizetta Bernard, Therese Wood, and Florence Noble. Performances were given every afternoon and evening, and for that purpose two sets of stars were engaged. During the afternoons of the first week of the season the bill consisted of " The Water Nymphs " and the burlesque of "Masaniello," in which the Zavistowski Sisters — Emmeline, Alice, and Christine — appeared respectively as the Prince, Alphonso, and Finella.
The Rand Sisters — Olivia and Rosa — made their New York debut Aug. 30 in "The Pearl of Savoy." These ladies came from California. They retired from the stage, Olivia some years since having married L. R. Shewell, and died at Mt. Vernon, N. Y., June 23, 1898. "The King's Musketeers" was acted Sept 13, when C. W. Barry made his first appearance here as D'Artagnan. This play was repeated all the week, and at the matinees of the following week, while on the evening of Sept. 20 and subsequent evenings the Zavistowski Sisters appeared in a burlesque written for them, called " Wip Wan Winkle. " It was supplemented with the farce of "The Irish Tutor." During the week commencing Oct. 4, "Wip Wan Winkle" and "A Rustic Prima Donna," were played in the afternoons, while in the evenings C. W. Barry ap-
iseg;]
WOOD'S MUSEUM AND MENAGERIE
^•2-1
peared in a drama of his own, called " Peril. " This play was re- peated at matinees during the following week, and in the evenings "Wip Wan Winkle" and the "Masaniello" burlesque was played, the Zavistowskis closing on Oct. i6. On Oct. i8 the afternoon bill was "The Pearl of Savoy," while in the evening was produced a spectacular sensational extravaganza, called " Flick Flock." The stage management was now in the hands of C. W. Barry, while Sig. Aberle directed the orchestra.
Charles W. Barry died in Columbus, Ohio, Jan. 28, 1889. Dur- ing the season of 1853-54 he was known at Chicago, 111., as Charles Whittle. He played Uncle Tom at that time, to the Eva of Little Mary Marsh. " Flick Flock " was the next attraction, with Rita Sangalli, the danseuse, in five r61es, viz. : those of the Queen of Dreams, Clotilda de Villamile, Stella, D'jina, and that of pre- mihe danseuse. She also sang a new valse composed for her by Sig. Giorza, and called "The Sangalli Valse." The remaining parts in " Flick Flock " were sustained by John Morton as Niko- bar; T. W. Keene, Don Fernand; Olivia Rand, Mousseline; James Barnes, Flick ; and J. M. Ward, Flock. At matinees dur- ing the week commencing Oct. 25 "The Drunkard" was played, and the following week "Nicholas Nickleby" was produced; Mile. Sangalli closing her engagement, and " Flick Flock " being with- drawn on the evening of Nov. i. Yankee Robinson then played for a week in the evenings, and another week in the afternoons, in "Darius Dutton. "
Clelia and John Howson appeared Nov. 15 in the burlesque of "Aladdin," and the following week were seen in "A Pretty Horsebreaker," for the afternoons, and "A Yankee in China" in the evenings.
"Kenilworth," burlesque, was acted afternoon and evening of the week of Nov. 29, with Olivia Rand as Leicester, Rosa Rand as Amy Robsart, J. M. Ward as Way land Smith, John Morton as Queen Elizabeth ; Bernard, Wood, Thompson, Charles, de Bonay, Barnes, and Collins were also in the cast. This burlesque was then played for three consecutive weeks at the matinees, making a total run of one month.
"Dora Bella, or the Minstrel, the Mission, the Miss, and the Misery," was a burlesque extravaganza, acted Dec. 13. It proved to be a version of " The Fair One with the Golden Locks. " The cast was:
Blubberoso J. M. Ward
Niceyoso Lisa Weber
Spiceyoso Ada Harland
Dora Bella Ed. Righton
Papillotina .... Lizzie Wilmore Count Pleniposo . . Therese Wood Captain Killingoso . . . Lillie Hall Hookandeyeina . . . Mr. Marsden
Mantelwrapina Hairpinfixina . Staylacepalina Queen Carp . An Owl . . . A Crow . . . A Monster . .
John de Bonay Mr. Florence Mr. Cook Alice Logan James Collins . Jas. Barnes G. A. Archer
528 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE L1870
"Dora Bella" had a month's run.
The farce of " Mr. and Mrs. Peter White " was also played by John Morton, J. S. Rooney, G. A. Archer, Olivia Rand, Lizette Bernard, and Connie Thompson.
For the afternoons of week commencing Jan. 3, 1870, a bur- lesque called "Without a Name," was produced, with Olivia Rand as Prince Ahmed, Rosa Rand as Princess Aldegonda, and John Morton as the King of Spain. It remained the afternoon attrac- tion for three weeks.
On Jan. 10 " Ixion " was revived, in which Lisa Weber, Ada Harland, Emily Pitt, Belle Howitt, Clara Fisher, Lillie Hall, Lizzie Wilmore, and Edward Righton appeared.
" Dora Bella " and " Ixion " were acted evenings of week com- mencing Jan. 24, and the burlesque " William Tell " was presented in the afternoon. This arrangement was repeated during the fol- lowing week. On the afternoon of Feb. 7 Byron's "Pilgrim of Love " burlesque was played, while in the evening a burlesque called " Little Faust," but which was in reality Burnand's " Alonzo the Brave, or Faust and the Fair Imogene," was presented. The cast was :
Alonzo Ada Harland
Mephisto Lisa Weber
Dr. Faust .... Lizzie Wilmore Brandt Clara Fisher
Siebel J. M. Ward
Wagner Emily Pitt
Valentine Lillie Hall
Marguerite E. Righton
Lisa Weber's costume caught fire from the lights, but other than from fright the lady was uninjured. " Faust " was played for two weeks nightly, and one week at the matindes. Brough's bur- lesque of " Lalla Rookh " was the matinee attraction from Feb. 14 until Feb. 26. The Weber company closed with the matinee of March 5.
Dominick Murray and Josephine Fiddes (Mrs. Dominick Mur- ray) commenced Feb. 28 (evening) in a drama called " The Golden Bubble, or a Change of Fortune," Mr. Murray playing Pierre La Croche, and Josephine Fiddes, Clairesse de Belle Maison. Louis J. Mestayer now joined the company, playing Jacques Sabot. The following week the same play was repeated in the afternoons.
The Rand Sisters reappeared March 14 for the afternoons in "William Tell." "Pygmalion" was the evening attraction. Dominick Murray played Paudeen O'Rafferty in "Born to Good Luck," for the afternoons of the week of March 21. "William Tell " was also acted. The burlesque of " Sappho " was the night attraction. The following week " Pygmalion " was presented in the afternoon, and the burlesque "The White Cat," in the evening.
" The Bohemian Girl " was a new burlesque, given on evening of April II, with this cast:
18703
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529
Arline . . . Devilshoof . . Count Arnheim
. Ada Harland Lizzie Wilmore . . Emily Pitt
Thaddeus .... Jenny Wilmore
Florestein Felix Rogers
Gypsy Queen . . . . L. J. Mestayer
M. W. Leffingwell and Marion Fiske commenced April 25, Mr. Leffingwell as Romeo Jaffier Jenkins in "Too Much for Good Nature," and both in a burlesque by H. B. Mathieson, en- titled " 1870." For the following week the afternoon and evening attraction was "Fra Diavolo" and "Too Much for Good Nature," except the night of May 6, when the Rand Sisters, for their bene- fit, acted " Kenilworth " and " The Pearl of Savoy. "
"The Field of the Cloth of Gold" was revived May 9, and acted afternoon and evening for two weeks. Alice Harrison and Mrs. Edward Wright (mother of James Melville, the equestrian) ap- peared in this burlesque. Albert W. Aiken appeared May 25 in his own drama, "The Witches of New York," in which he played Royal Keene, supported by Olivia Rand as Mile. Eloise, Rosa Rand as the heroine; T. W. Keene, G. C. Charles, Jas. Barnes, and Therese Wood. This ran until June 4.
The Martinetti company of pantomimists came June 6, in " Hop 0' My Thumb." T. W. Keene, L. J. Mestayer, Alice Logan, and Therese Wood played the farce of " The Young Widow. " On June 20 "Jocko, the Brazilian Ape," was the pantomime, and Little Nell (now known as Helen Dauvray) made her first appearance here in a farce by James Barnes called "Popsy Wopsy," in which she sang, danced, and played drum and banjo solos. On July 4 "The Green Monster" pantomime was produced; Little Nell played Andy Blake, and M. d'Atalie and Mme. Angela, strong man and woman, and a troupe of French wrestlers appeared. This was the first appearance in America of the wrestlers.
There was a change of bill July 18. Pierre Dubois, styled "The Samson of the Arena," appeared in his cannon act; "A Terrible Tinker " was acted and the Martinetti Family were seen in "Mons. Duchalumeau. " The burlesque, "East Lynne," was produced July 25, with Edward Lamb, Rosa Rand, Alice Harri- son, Therese Wood, James Barnes, J. S. Rooney, and G. C. Charles in the cast; also "The Magic Trumpet," by the Marti- nettis. For the matinee, Aug. i, "Robert Macaire" and "The Post of Honor " were given, while the evenings of that week were occupied by Albert W. Aiken, with " The Witches of New York. " "The Ace of Spades " was produced for the first time in New York Aug. 15, with Thos. W. Keene, Louis J. Mestayer, Rooney, Jas. Barnes, Therese Wood, Mrs. Harry Ryner, Alice Logan, Aiken, and Geo. C. Charles in the cast. Mr. Aiken's adaptation from the French of Dumas' " The Heart of Gold " was acted Aug. 22. The season closed Aug. 27.
The next season commenced Sept. 5, 1870, with Mrs. Scott-Sid- voL. ir.— 34
530 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1870
dons as the star, in " 'Twixt Axe and Crown," and for the matinee James Barnes' burlesque " The Golden Butterfly " was seen, preceded by a farce in which two young ladies made their first appearance on any stage. Charles R. Thorne, Jr., W. H. Whalley, McKee Rankin, George Metkiff, Claude Burroughs, Louis Mestayer, G. C. Charles, Thomas W. Keene, Henrietta Irving, Annie Sefton, Alice Logan, and Harry Stewart were in the cast of " 'Twixt Axe and Crown." Mrs. Siddons repeated this play a second week, and for her third week appeared as Rosalind to Charles R. Thome's Orlando in " As You Like It. " For her farewell week she played '"Twixt Axe and Crown," Sept. 26, 28; "As You Like It," Sept. 27, 29; "The Honeymoon" and "King Rene's Daughter," Sept. 30.
The Kiralfy Troupe — Mile. Haniola, Imre, and Bolossy Kiralfy and others — appeared Oct. 3 in ballet ; and Oct. 10, in " Humpty Dumpty, Jr. " The characters were played by the Saxon " Infant Troupe;" also " Guerrieres Sauvages." At the matindes, Thurs- day and Friday, the burlesque of " Rip Van Winkle " was acted, preceded by "The Suit of Tweeds."
The Lydia Thompson burlesque company commenced Oct. 17 in "Lurline," founded upon Wallace's opera of that name. In the organization were Lydia Thompson, Pauline Markham, Marie Longmore, Alice Atherton, Fanny Prestige, John L. Hall, W. B. Cahill, and Willie Edouin. At the matinees the burlesque, " Enoch Arden, the Sailor Boy" was seen. The Thompson company re- vived the drooping fortunes of the Museum. They attracted large audiences nightly; and, though but slightly noticed by the daily press, whose opposition they seemed to thrive on, they acted with the same spirit and gaiety which at this house won them their first American triumphs. For the matinees, week of Oct. 31, "The Rose of Castile " was given with Rosa Cook in the cast.
" Lurline " was acted four weeks. On Nov. 14 the company was reorganized, and "Paris, or the Apple of Discord," was produced, with this cast :
Juno Annie Firmin
Minerva Lillie Hall
Oenone Harry Beckett
Orion Alice Atherton
Castor W. B. Cahill
Paris Lydia Thompson
Venus Minnie Walton
Mercury . . . Eliza Weathersby
Jupiter Marie Longmore
Cupid Jennie Arnot
Pollux Willie Edouin
For the matinees this week a comic opera company under the direction of Fred Lyster appeared in "The Grand Duchess." For the matinees, weeks of Nov. 28 and Dec. 5, "The Beggar's Opera" was presented. "The White Cat," preceded by the farce. "A Woman's Stratagem," in which Lottie Grant made her first ap- pearance on any stage, was done at the matinee, Dec. 12. "Paris"
1870 WOOD'S MUSEUM AND MENAGERIE 53 1
was reconstructed, and given Dec. 19. Ada Harland reappeared; also Nellie Henderson, who made her d^but. Johnny Thompson commenced matinee, Dec. 27 in " On Hand, or True to the Last."
"Paris" was withdrawn Jan. 2, 1871, after its eleventh week, for "The Forty Thieves," and Johnny Thompson continued at the matinees the weeks of Jan. 9-16. The Thompson company pro- duced "St. George and the Dragon, or The Seven Champions of Christendom." They began their last week Jan. 23, with "Deli- cate Ground," in which Fred Dewar, H. R. Teesdale, and Lydia Thompson appeared, followed by "St. George and the Dragon." For her benefit, Jan. 27, Lydia acted in "Meg's Diversion," and the principal scenes from " Ixion, or the Man at the Wheel. " They closed Jan. 28, with "Ixion," and "Meg's Diversion."
Lydia Thompson was the first person to sing "His 'Art Was True to Poll " in America. She told me, with plenty of laughable interruptions and imitations, how she "cribbed" the song from Mrs. John Wood, who had made a great hit with it in London Mrs. Wood never forgave her.
Lucy Rushton appeared Jan. 30 in "Red Hands," in which W. Barry made his first appearance this season, as did Annie Sefton. "The Spirit Avenger" was acted at the matinees.
The Coleman Children — Louise, Alice, Clara, and Walter — commenced at the matinee, Feb. 6, in "Milly, the Pretty Milk Maid," and "Nan the Good for Nothing." They introduced in- strumental and vocal solos, songs, and dances. For the evenings Lucy Rushton was the attraction, commencing Feb. 6, in " Glitter," done for the first time in America. Her engagement terminated Feb. II. The Colemans continued for the matinees week Feb. 13, in "The Loan of a Lover," "Nan the Good for Nothing," and "The Swiss Cottage." Louise Coleman played the banjo well, and her solos on the B-flat cornet were surprising. Louise died at Col- fax, Col., Oct. 6, 1874. Alice died in New York, August 16, 1894. The burlesque of " Lucretia Borgia" was presented Feb. 13 with William B. Cahill as the "Dook," Alice Harrison as Genarro, and Therese Wood as Orsini. Edward Eddy appeared Feb. 20 in "Monte Cristo." "Lucrezia Borgia" was the matinee bill. Mr. Eddy continued the week of Feb. 27; for the matinees, "Dearer than Life" and "Boots at the Swan" were played. March 6 Mr. Eddy acted in "The Dead Heart." Oliver Doud Byron appeared here March 13 in "Across the Continent." Annie Firmin, James M. Ward, Thomas W. Keene, W. B. Cahill, Louis Mestayer, Joseph Sefton, Alice Harrison, Therese Wood, and Alice Atherton were in the cast. For the matinees, every day except Saturday, " Lucrezia Borgia " and " Atchi " were given. " The Hidden Hand " was the matinee attraction the week of March 27.
532 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D871
"The Black Ape," with Sig. Canito (first appearance at this theatre), was seen April 3. " Fairies of the Enchanted Isle " was offered at the matinees, week of April 10. Oliver Doud Byron's sixth and last week of "Across the Continent" began April 17. For the matindes, "The Flying Dutchman" was given.
Geo. Francis Train lectured on Sunday evening, April 23. "The Streets of New York," with T. W. Keene as Badger, was presented April 24; for the matinee "The Flying Dutchman" continued. "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was the matinee attraction May r; evenings. May 3, 4, "The Colleen Bawn " was played; May 5 was W. B. Cahill's benefit; May 8 was the first appear- ance as a dramatic star of Joseph Murphy, in " Help, " who con- tinued three weeks, appearing in his last week both afternoon and evening of every day. Alice Harrison took a benefit May 30, when "The Hidden Hand," the burlesque of "Kenilworth" (in which the Rand Sisters appeared), Tony Pastor in songs, and Johnny Allen were the attractions. James Barnes' benefit took place June 2, with " Inshavogue. " Charles Fox and Tony Denier's pantomime company commenced June 5 in "The Three Blind Mice," and continued for three weeks, afternoon and evening each day. On June 26 they presented " Humpty Dumpty. " James M. Ward appeared in "Through by Daylight," July 3. Geo. C. Davenport acted in " The Knights of Arva " afternoon July 10.
Geo. C. Boniface began an engagement July 17, in "Les Mis- erables," adapted from Victor Hugo's romance. It had this cast:
Jean Valjean . . . . G. C. Boniface Fantine . . . Gussie de Forrest
Thonadier J. J. Wallace
Javert Frank Evans
M. Myrel Harry Ryner
Mad. Magloire .... Nellie Jones
M. Heullant T. A. Dow
Cochchaille . . . . L. R. Willard
Cammathieu R. J. Lewis
Gavroche Alice Atherton
M. Gildenormand . . W. H. Wilder
Favorite .... Marion Holcombe
Dahlia Emma Mosher
Zephina . . . Miss M. Westberg
Thenadiess Kate Ryner
Cosette Mary Page
Baptistee .... Jennie Satterlee
Brebet Harry Stewart
Chemildieu .... Edward Coyle Fanchelevent . . . . G. C. Charles
Marius J. Leslie Gossin
Servant Wm. Major
At the matinees of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, "All That Glitters is Not Gold." "The Idiot of the Mountain," with Geo. C. Boniface as Claude, and Gussie de Forrest, J. J. Wallace, J. L. Gossin, and Frank Evans in the cast, was presented July 24. "The Chimney Corner" was the matinee attraction. "The Ticket of Leave Man" with Mr. Boni- face as Brierly, and Gussie de Forrest as May Edwards, was played July 31. "David Garrick" and "Robert Macaire" were given for the evenings, and John L. Hall's burlesque company in " Aladdih" and " My Turn Next " for the matinees.
1872] WOOD'S MUSEUM AND MENAGERIE 533
Ada Harland returned here Aug. 21, acting the Will o' the Wisp in " Lola." " Lost in London " was played for the matinees. Miss Harland closed Sept. 2. Charles Foster appeared Sept. 4 in "Bertha, the Sewing Machine Girl," for the matinees. Lucille Western was seen in the evenings in " East Lynne," supported by James A. Heme. Charles Foster continued for three weeks. Lucille Western played "East Lynne" week of Sept. 11, except Saturday evening, Sept. 16, when she acted in "Lucrezia Borgia;" Sept. 18, "Leah, the Forsaken;" Sept. 25, Lucille Western pro- duced "The Mendicant, or Stricken Blind." Wm. J. Fleming was in the cast. For the matin6es John L. Hall appeared in "Our Nelly " and in " Cool as a Cucumber." " Oliver Twist " was done Oct. 2 by Lucille Western, who also played Mrs. Haller in " The Stranger," matinee, Oct. 7. The matinee attraction this week was J. J. Wallace, as Peter Probity in "The Chimney Corner."
"The Child Stealer" was acted all the week of Oct. 9 except Oct. 13, when "East Lynne" was given. Mr. and Mrs. John L. Hall appeared at the matindes in "The Orphan's Dream, or the Servant Girl's Trials." Lucille Western terminated her engage- ment Oct. 14, and was followed Oct. 16 by "The Octoroon" for the evenings, and " The Gunmaker of Moscow " for the matindes. "The Octoroon" and "The Gunmaker of Moscow" was the night attraction the week of Oct. 23, while "The Gypsy Farmer" and the farce " Long Brother John " were done at the matinees.
Master Percy Roselle made his debut Oct. 30 in "The Boy Detective." T. S. Connor, Thomas Owens, and Mrs. M. A. Pennoyer were in the cast. H. J. Byron's burlesque, "Acis and Galatea," was acted at the matinees. Master Roselle (who was announced as only fifteen years of age) continued for three weeks. For the week of Nov. 13 the burlesque of " Masaniello " and " The Golden Farmer" were the matinee pieces.
Susan Denin first appeared at this theatre Nov. 20, supported by J. B. Studley, in "The Black Sheep." "Pale Janet" was the matinee bill. " Clairvoyance, or the Man with the Wax Figures " was seen Nov. 27, with Susan Denin, John W. Albaugh, and J. B. Studley in the cast. " Life in the Streets " was presented Dec. 4, and for the matinees "Colleen Bawn;" Dec. 18, "The Ticket of Leave Man," matinees, "Satan in Paris;" Dec. 25 saw a perform- ance of "Benedict Arnold."
On Jan. i, 1872, "The Forty Thieves" was the matinee bill, and for the evenings, "Out of the Fire." Pauline Markham and Belle Howitt were seen in "Little Red Riding Hood," week Jan. 29. Marian Mordaunt appeared Feb. 12 in "Darling, or Woman and Her Master." Charles T. Parsloe, with his pupil. Master SnifEen, played Feb. 26 in " Out at Sea. " Laura Keene appeared here April i in "Hunted Down," and stayed two weeks, followed
534 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Ds?^
April 15-22 by "The Sea of Ice," and for the matinees "Forty Thieves," with Pauline Markham and Belle Howitt in the cast. " Ixion " was revived April 29, with Markham, Belle Howitt, A. H. Sheldon, and Rollin Howard in the principal rSles ; matinees, " Time and Tide " was presented, with Thos. W. Keene and Miss Markham in the cast.
Marietta Ravel (now Mrs. Martin W. Hanley) appeared May 6 in " The French Spy ; " " Ixion " was given for the matinees. "Jartine" was produced May 13 by Marietta Ravel, and for the matinees the burlesque "Eily O'Connor" was seen. Johnny Thompson appeared May 20-27 in " On Hand ; " for the matinee, May 20, " Dick Whittington and His Cat " was done, and May 27, "The Willow Copse" was played. Thompson acted June 3-10, for the first times in " Our Colored Brothers ; " matindes, June 3, "Black Eyed Susan;" June 10, "Maud's Peril," with Jennie Car- roll in the cast.
Albert Aiken appeared afternoon and evening of week of June 17 in the Indian drama, "Red Mazeppa;" June 24 Dominick Murray acted "Escaped from Sing Sing," afternoon and evening, supported by C. W. Barry. "Won Out" was produced the week of July I. Afternoon and evening July 8, J. J. McCloskey was seen in "Pomp, or Way Down South;" July 15 Harry Seymour came as Quasimodo in "Notre Dame," afternoons and evening; July 22, " Life in New York " for the matinees, and Baker and Farron in "Chris and Lena" was the night attraction. F. S. Chanfrau presented "Kit" July 29, Aug. 5; "Sam," Aug. 12; for the matinee, "Madge, or a Life of Crime;" "The Mariner's Com- pass " was done for the matinee Aug. 19, and Mr. Chanfrau played "The Ticket of Leave Man," for the evening; Aug. 26, "The Serious Family " was done at matinee, and " Swiss Swains. " In the evenings Mr. Chanfrau acted Old Pete in "The Octoroon." " The Lady of Lyons " was presented Sept. 2 for the afternoon, and " Kit " in the evening.
The next regular season began Sept. 9, 1872, with the burlesque of " Chow Chow, or a Tale of Pekin. " Lisa Weber, Belle Howitt, Emma Grattan (Mrs. Harry Courtaine), Aggie Wood, Charles Sturgess, Pauline Markham, L. J. Mestayer, A. H. Sheldon, Jennie Arnot, and Therese Wood were in the cast. George Atkins joined the company Sept. 16. Baker and Farron were seen at the matinees in " Chris and Lena. " " Chow Chow " was played Sept. 23, and for the matinee, "She Stoops to Conquer" was given; Sept. 30, Oct. 7, Dominick Murray came in "Escaped from Sing Sing;" matinee, Sept. 30, "Chow Chow;" Oct. 7, "Little Red Riding Hood;" Oct. 14, "A Gambler's Crime, or the Murder on the Hudson," by Dominick Murray, for the even- ings; matinees, "Dick Whittington and His Cat."
1873D WOOD'S MUSEUM AND MENAGERIE 535
The burlesque, "The Three Musketeers," evening, Oct. 21; matinee, "The Corsican Brothers;" "The Musketeers" for the matinees, and Marie Zoe in "The Angel of Midnight," evenings of week commencing Oct. 28. On Nov. 4 Zoe appeared at the matinees, and the burlesque, " The Silver Demon " was done at night. James M. Ward commenced Nov. ii in "Buffalo Bill," followed Nov. 18 by John Thompson in "Our Colored Brother;" "Ixion" was seen matinee Nov. 25; evening, John Thompson ap- peared in " The Wandering Dutchman. " " The Golden Butterfly " was played matindes, Dec. 2-9, and Thompson was seen in the evening in " On Hand. " " The Palace of Truth " was the matinee attraction Dec. 16-23, and in the evening "Babes in the Wood," in which Delehanty and Hengler and Sheridan and Mack, song and dance artists, appeared, also Jacob Showles with his perform- ing mule; Dec. 29, "Jack, the Giant Killer," was done.
Marietta Ravel appeared Jan. 13, 1873, in "Jartine" for the evenings, while Moses W. Fiske occupied the stage the after- noons in " Poison ; " Jan. 20 Marietta Ravel presented " Wild Cat ; " Jan. 27, F. S. Chanfrau came in "Kit." Feb. 3-10 James M. Ward in " Buffalo Bill " for the matinees ; evenings of week Feb. 10 Chanfrau acted "Sam;" Feb. 17, J. Z. Little in "Saved from the Wreck," matinde; Chanfrau in the evenings acted " Mose ; " Feb. 24, J. Z. Little was seen at matindes ; evenings, Oliver Doud Byron appeared in "Across the Continent." J. Z. Little died in Brooklyn, N. Y., March 9, 1900. Week of March 3, " Daylight and Gaslight " for the matinees ; E. T. Stetson at night in "Neck and Neck;" March 10-17 James J. Bartlett in "The Devil's Crag;" March 24, Joseph Murphy played in "Help," for the evenings; matinee, March 31, W. S. Higgins in "Out of the Fire;" evenings. Murphy in "Maum Cre."
April 7 Stuart Robson appeared for the evenings in " Law in New York;" Minnie Foster acted in "Mad Cap," for the matinees ; April 14 Dominick Murray was seen in "The Gambler's Crime, or Murder on the Hudson;" April 21, Jennie Morton occupied the matinees with "Fanchon;" evenings, Murray in "Escaped from Sing Sing;" April 28, Murray in "Blood Money." Hernandez Foster appeared at the matinees May S in "Jack Harkaway;" Murray in the evenings in "Willy Reilly."
Yankee Locke began an engagement May 19 in "Trumps;" Louise Sylvester had the matindes, with " Nip, the Pretty Flower." Wm. H. Whalley appeared evening May 26 in " Captain Jack ; " Louise Sylvester in " Katy Did " for the matinee. Frank Mayo was seen June 2 in "Davy Crockett," while Edward Eddy was the afternoon attraction in " Monte Cristo. " James M. Ward and Winnetta Montague came June 16 in " Cuba, or Might Against Right," and for the matinees, John Jack offered "Wife of Two."
536 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D874
Thomas G. Riggs appeared June 30 in "Shin Fane." D. E. Ral- ton acted in "Wild Bill," afternoons week commencing July 7. In the evenings Harry Clifford was seen in "Pomp;" July 14 John Collins, the Irish comedian, was seen in "Rory O'More," and "His Last Legs" for the evenings, while Florence Noble oc- cupied the stage at the matinles with "Shadow Brook, or A Daughter's Oath;" July 21 J. J. "Wallace came in "Orin A'Chorra;" July 28, Geo. C. Charles in "The Skeleton Hand;" Aug. 4, Frank Evans in "Three Years in a Man Trap;" Aug. 11, for the matinees E. T. Stetson in "Struck Blind;" evenings, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Albaugh in "Watch and Wait; " Aug. 18, for the matinees, E. T. Stetson in "Pablo, or the Cuban Rider;" even- ings, Mr. and Mrs. John W. Albaugh in " Poverty Flat. " Edward Eddy acted in "Metamora" Aug. 25, 26, 27, and in "Jack Cade," Aug. 28, 29, 30.
The stock company for 1873-74 was composed of: William Marden, T. W. Keene, J. Z. Little, L. J. Mestayer, A. H. Shel- don, Welsh Edwards, Geo. O. Morris, Charles Sturgess, Harry Stewart, J. Partello, L. R. Birchler, Frank Langley, Charles Woodruff, L. R. Willard, Gussie de Forrest, Nellie Young, Hen- rietta Granger, Augusta Raymond (now Mrs. Edward Kidder), Therese Wood, Nellie Sandford (Mrs. A. H. Sheldon), Mrs. D. B. Vanderen, Mrs. Welsh Edwards, Katy Harrison, and Lizzie Andrews. James Barnes was stage manager. The season opened Sept. i with Elsie Holt in "Dick the Chevalier," for the evenings and Saturday matinees. The other matinees during the week were filled by Edmund Pierce in McCloskey's drama "For Lack of Gold." Edward Eddy appeared Sept. 8 in "The Wandering Jew," for the matinees; Elsie Holt in burlesque in the evenings. Oliver Byron followed, Sept. 15, in "Ben McCullough;" Sept. 22, "Across the Continent;" Sept. 29, T. G. Riggs in "Shin Fane;" for the matinees, "Jack the Giant Killer;" Oct. 6, E. T. Stetson in "Struck Blind." Frank Mayo and Rosa Rand began Oct. 20 and " Davy Crockett " was acted during the week. Dominick Murray commenced Oct. 27 in " Willy Reilly. " On Nov. 17 John E. Owens appeared in "The Victims." T. G. Riggs was seen Dec. 15 in "The Irish Detective," acted for the first time on any stage. It was supplemented on Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as the Saturday matinee, by " The Fastest Boy in New York."
Mr. and Mrs. E. L. Davenport began an engagement of two weeks, Dec. 22, in "Hamlet," followed by other Shakespearian standard plays. Jan. 5, 1874, "The Streets of New York" was given ^in the evening, while "A Husband to Order" was the matinee attraction; Jan. 19 Geo. H. Adams was seen in "Jack Robinson and His Monkey;" Jan. 26, for the first time on any
1874]
WOOD'S MUSEUM AND MENAGERIE
537
stage, "Nimble Jim" was done; matinee, Rollin Howard and Jennie Engel, in "The Naiad Queen;" Feb. 2, Yankee Locke in "Trumps." Jennie Engel was the matinee star in "Puss in Boots." Feb. 9, Amy Stone was seen in "Cigarette;" Feb. 16, J. A. Stevens in "Daniel Boone;" for the matinees, commencing Feb. 23, " Dombey and Son ; " March 2, Alice Harrison appeared in "The Boy Detective;" March 9, "Bertha, the Sewing Machine Girl," Alice Harrison in the title r61e; March 16, J. J. Wallace came in "The Man from Africa;" March 23, "Rum, or the Cru- sade of Temperance," came, with Robert Johnston as the star. On March 30, Alice Placide in "The Little Rifle," for the even- ings, and " Uncle Tom's Cabin " for the matinees.
Jennie Morton was seen April 6 in "Idlewild," for the matin6es, and C. W. Barry in " Escaped from Sing Sing " in the evenings. E. L. Davenport was the next star, in " St. Marc, or The Soldier of Fortune," April 13, 14; "Oliver Twist," April 15; April 16, "A New Way to Pay Old Debts." E. L. Davenport terminated his engagement April 18 with "Macbeth." Dominick Murray ap- peared April 20, in "The Gambler's Crime." For the benefit of Gussie de Forrest, April 27, "The Lady of Lyons," and "Female Blue Beard " were played. Sophie Miles acted in " East Lynne " for the matinees. T. W. Keene did "The Man of Mystery," for his benefit, April 28. "Uncle Tom's Cabin," April 29, 30. Sophie Miles came in "Aurora Floyd," May i. A. H. Sheldon and James Barnes had a joint- benefit afternoon and evening of May 2. Mr. Sheldon's drama, "Wealth and Crime, or Escaped from the Gallows," was acted for the first time. Marietta Ravel returned in "Jartine" May 4. "Wild Cat" was done May 11, and for the matinees, week of May 11, Sophie Miles in "Deborah." Marietta Ravel played "The French Spy," May 15, 16. Sid. C. France followed May 25 in " Marked for Life." Baker and Farron came June i in "Chris and Lena, or German Life on the Missis- sippi." J. W. Huntley was seen in "Wrestling Joe," June 8. Hernandez Foster for the afternoons and evenings, June 15, in "Jack Harkaway." June 22 was the first appearance of J. R. Grismer in "The Skeleton Hand." Friday and Saturday after- noons and evenings, June 26, 27, " Wealth and Crime " was pro- duced, with this cast:
Joe Green A. H. Sheldon District Attorney . . Christie Miller
Frank Carroll . . . Harry Colton Foreman of Jury . . Frank Langley
Gerald Welsh Edwards Girl of the Period . . May Kimball
Dick Kelly .... Harry Stewart Joan of Arc .... Maud Bobav
Cupid : Nellie Sandford Sheriff L. R. Willard
Mrs. Thome . . . Kate Harrison Moran Steele . . . . R. J. Lewis
Richard Rakeley . . Geo. O. Morris Metamora . . . Delancy Barclay
James Connor . . . W. H. Partello Lucy Gussie de Forrest
Judge Goodman . . G. C. Charles Jennie Therese Wood
Mrs. Green . Mrs. D. B. Vanderen America Miss E. Shaw
538 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1875
"Birthday of Freedom, or The Days of '^6 " was produced Mon- day afternoon, June 29. In the evening Buffalo Bill appeared in "The Scout of the Plains." On Saturday, July 4, there were three performances in the lecture room. July 6 J. P. Kilbourne played day and nights in Charles Foster's " Swamp Angels "and "Dar- ing Dick, the Detective;" July 13, Harry Clifford returned in "Pomp;" July 20, C. W. Barry in "Roped In;" Louis Aldrich was engaged as a stock star for the season; he opened July 27 in "The Streets of New York," with Sophie Miles as the night at- traction, and " The Dead Witness " for the matinees.
" The Sea of Ice " was presented evening, Aug. 3, with Aldrich, Sophie Miles, Therese Wood, W. H. Meeker, Florence Stratton,
D. B. Vanderen, J. R. Grismer, A. H. Sheldon, Welsh Edwards, and Harry Colton in the cast. The Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday matinees were filled with " Little Red Rid- ing Hood," Belle Howitt, Lizzie Kelsey, and Elsie Moore in the cast. "The Poor and Proud of New York" was done Aug. 10, and "Dick Whittington and His Cat "for the matinees. "The Dwarfs' Duel" for the nights, and "Puss in Boots," matinees, Aug. 17; "The Lancashire Lass" was seen Aug. 24, followed Aug. 31 by "The Last Nail, or Demon of Goblin Gap, "and "Blow for Blow;" Sept. 7, matinees, "Pride of the Market;" night, "Foul Play;" Sept. 14, "The Lady of Lyons," for the matinees, and nights, " Under the Gaslight. "
E. L. Davenport reappeared Sept. 21, 22, in "Richelieu;" Sept. 23, 24, in "Othello;" Sept. 25, 26, "Macbeth;" and matinee, Sept. 26, "The Stranger." M. W. Leiifingwell as Romeo Jaffier Jenkins was the matinee attraction for the week. " Hamlet " was played by Mr. Davenport Sept. 28, 29; "A New Way to Pay Old Debts," Sept. 30; "Damon and Pythias," with John
E. McCullough as Pythias, Oct. 2, and "Richard III.," Oct. 3; "A Flash of Lightning" was seen Oct. $; "Under the Gas- light," Oct. 12; Jennie Morton at the matinees in "Idlewild." Oct. 19 Lucille Western appeared in "East Lynne" and stayed two weeks ; " Oliver Twist " was done Oct. 30. Oliver Doud Byron came Nov. 2 in "Ben McCullough," for four evenings and " Across the Continent," for two evenings. " Uncle Tom's Cabin," matinees week of Nov. 16, Alice Placide acting "Little Rifle" in the evenings; Nov. 23 "Round the Clock" was given, in which Joe Coburn, the pugilist boxed with the "Unknown." Fred Rob- inson presented "Quarry Dell" Nov. 30; J. H. Vinton appeared Dec. 14 in "Quits," followed by "Arrah Na Pogue," Dec. 21; " After Dark " was done Dec. 28, and Wash T. Melville came Jan. 4, 1875, in "Smoke."
George Ciprico appeared the week of Jan. 11 in "Edmund Kean;" Johnny Thompson in "Dixie," Jan. 18; Albert Aiken
i87S3
WOOD'S MUSEUM AND MENAGERIE
539
in "The Witches of New York," Feb. i ; S. C. France returned in "Marked for Life," Feb. 15; Johnny Allen came Feb. 22, in "Schneider, or Dot House Von Der Rhine;" "Diedrich" was done by Mr. Allen for the first time here, Feb. 25; the CarroUs, Richard and Dick, appeared March i, in " Kidnapped ; " March 15, Yankee Robinson in " Sas-sa-cus ; " Louis Aldrich played at the matinees in "Monte Cristo;" Rena (Mrs. Fred Maeder) was seen March 29, for the matinees in " Castle Garden ; " Frank Jones appeared April 5 in "The Black Hand;" Oliver Doud Byron returned April 12 in "Ben McCuUough;" April 26, Byron in "Thoroughbred;" May 10 Kate Fisher appeared in "Mazeppd;" May 17, Milton Nobles in "Jim Bludsoe;" May 31, Sheridan & Mack's variety company; June 14, Lillie Wilkinson for one week in "Little Sunshine;" June 21, E. T. Stetson in "The Black Doctor;" June 28, Charles Foster in his own drama, "201, or the Doctor's Oath."
On July S a summer season commenced. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings and Wednesday matinee, " Blackwell's Island, Or Vice and Poverty," by W. A. Towers, was acted, with this cast:
Bobby Snooks . Walter Leroy Jasper .... Ed. Harrington . Dr. Gale . . . Policeman . . Manager Allbones Fred Farwell Stephen Stone . Frank Crossgill
A. H. Sheldon
Harry Lee
E. L. Mortimer
H. Harris
Harry Stewart
. C. Wilson
Harry Stewart
W. A. Gregston
Christie Miller
R. J, Lewis
Mary Colton Margaret . . Mrs. Mawley Thos. Curley Sentry .
Louise Sylvester
Mrs. M. L. Berrell
. . Fanny Laurent
, . G. C. Charles
, . . J. Golden
DoUman L. R. Birchler
Letter Carrier J. Reddy
Bootblack J. Mitchell
Lottie Therese Wood
Nellie Nellie Sandford
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings and Saturday matinee, "Jack Sheppard " was given, with this cast:
Jack Sheppard . . . A. H. Sheldon Gay M. Christie
Jonathan Wild .... Harry Colton Figgs L. R. Birchler
Sir Rowland . . . Hamilton Harris Kittleby C. Wilson
Blueskin Harry Stewart Austin J. Reddy
Owen Wood . . . Christie Miller Rachel Kate Halpin
Thames Barrel .... Harry Lee Sally Nellie Sandford
Kneebone . . . . E. L. Mortimer Winny Emily Maynard
Mendez L. R. Birchler Mrs. Wood . . . Mrs. M. L. Berrell
Hogarth W. C. Turner Letty Fanny Laurent
Week July 12, evenings and two matinees, "Pomp" was played, and for Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday matinees, Gussie de Forrest was starred in "A Woman of the World." In the evenings and Wednesday and Saturday matinees of week of July 19, Oliver Doud Byron was seen in "Across the Continent." Dominick Murray appeared Aug. 26 in "The Spy," with the
540 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D876
author, C. W. Barry, M. V. Lingham, Gussie de Forrest, J. H. Burnett, and J. W. Shannon in the cast. Week of Aug. 2, "The Spy " was continued for the evenings, and for the daily matinees, except Wednesday and Saturday, " Wealth and Crime " was done. " The Spy " continued for a third week, and " Under False Colors," by A. H. Sheldon, was first acted matinee Aug. 9, and kept the stage during the week at the matinees.
Frank Frayne began an engagement of two weeks Aug. 16 in "Si Slocum." He appeared every evening and Wednesday and Saturday matinees, assisted by Frank Frayne, Clara Butler Frayne, F. R. Knight, J. W. Butler, and the regular company. For the matin^es,^ A. H. Sheldon's play, "The Black Avenger, or the Pirate's Last Shot," was done. During the second week's engagement of Mr. Frayne "A Duel in the Snow," and "The Fellow That Looks Like Me" were played. "Blow for Blow" was the matinee bill week of Aug. 30, and Johnny Thompson for the evenings. Mr. Thompson continued Sept. 6 in "Face to Face," while "Sin and Sorrow" was given at the matinees. The matinee attraction week of Sept. 13 was "The New York Fire- man, " and for the evenings, S. C. France, in " Marked for Life. " Two of the sensations of this drama were "a train of cars at full speed, running through a forest of fire," and a "rain storm of real water." S. C. France was seen Sept. 20 in "Dead to the World," with Jennie Morton, in "Neota, the Avenger," for the matinees; Sept. 27, F. S. Chanfrau came in "Kit," and stayed a fortnight, followed Oct II by Kate Fisher in "Mazeppa;" Oct. 18, "The French Spy;" Nov. i, Thomas W. Keene in "The Four Knaves;" Nov. 8, Keene as Badger, in "The Streets of New York;" and Nov. 13, Keene as Fagin, in "Oliver Tv^ist." Joseph Proctor appeared Nov. 15 after an absence of several years; Nov. 22 he acted "Rob Roy" for the week; Nov. 29, Geo. S. Knight was seen in "Karl Kline;" Dec. 6, F. S. Chanfrau came in "Rube, or the Wall Street Undertow," first time on any stage; Dec. 20, Mr. Chanfrau acted " Kit " for one week, and Dec. 27, Bob Brierly in " Ticket of Leave Man. "
On Jan. 3, 1876, James B. Roberts appeared here in "Faust and Marguerite;" Jan. 10, Belle Howitt came in "Jack the Giant Killer;" Jan. 14, C. W. Barry and Louis Aldrich played in "The Spy." During the winter of this season Geo. B. Bunnell and P. T. Barnum purchased a half interest in this establishment. On Jan. 21 Chas. T. Nichols was seen in "Sharkey, or the Shadow Detective;" Jan. 28 Kate Fisher came in "Schamyl" and "The French Spy; " March 13 Thomas G. Riggs appeared in " Suil Gair" and "Votes;" March 20 F. S. Chanfrau returned in "O'Flannigan and the Fairies." Robert Johnston came May 8 in "The Poor of the City;" John S. Norton was seen week of May 15 with "Under
I877D THE BROADWAY THEATRE 54 1
the Galiows. " Then came a new burlesque company, consisting of Adah Richmond, Nellie Allen, Harry Allen, Harry Stewart, Violet Campbell (Mrs. Belvil Ryan), Marion Sackett, Nellie Sandford, A. H. Sheldon, Mamie French, and Lizzie Kelsey, who appeared May 22 in "The Fair One with the Blonde Wig." D'Orsay Odgen and Louise Sylvester were seen the same day in "Bamboozling."
George C. Boniface appeared May 29 in "A Life's Revenge;" July 10 E. T. Stetson was seen in "Neck and Neck;" July 17 Stetson acted in "Belphegor;" Aug. 14 Harry Seymour gave "Sitting Bull, or Custer's Last Charge." "The Ice Witch" was offered Sept. 4; "Under the Gaslight," Sept. 11; Oct. 2, "A Flash of Lightning," with Sophie Miles, Harry Colton, Polly Booth, Geo. C. Jordan, Bertie Maywood, Aggie Wood, and Harry Vaughan in the cast. " Round the Clock " returned Oct. 9. Joe Coburn and Joe Goss, the pugilists, were introduced in "The Lottery of Life " Oct. 16, and George Wood closed the season Oct. 21.
The house reopened Oct. 23 with W. E. Barnes as manager. J. B. Studley appeared in "Buffalo Bill," Monday, Tuesday, Thurs- day, and Friday matinees. " Rip Van Winkle " was the attraction, with Sophie Miles as Gretchen and Harry Wilson as Rip. James Barnes (stage manager) took a benefit Oct. 30. The attraction was C. W. Barry in " Escaped from Sing Sing " and " The Adopted Child." Louis Aldrich, Lisa Weber, Constance Ham- blin, Mrs. Harry Jordan, Mrs. W. G. Jones, Jennie Morton, and Phosa McAllister acted in " Don Caesar de Bazan " and " Neota, the Avenger." When W. E. Barnes became manager nearly all the curiosities were rerfioved from the house, and when he retired from the management John Banvard took possession, and reopened the house Dec. 26.
Mr. Banvard had evidently grown tired of " Museums " and kin- dred titles, and now named his house "The Broadway Theatre." His opening attraction was a play called "Coerinia," and his company consisted of May Hart, (Mrs. John G. Saville), Zelma Valdemir, Alice Alton, Constance Hamblin, May Decker, Mrs. Sylvester Post (mother of Louise Sylvester), Marie Le Brun, John B. Studley, Edwin F. Knowles, W. M. Ward, J. V. Melton, Chas. Webster, Arthur H. Forrest, John P. Cooke, Chas. E. Newton, Herbert Ayling, H. Pierson, H. Lovell, and J. Hall.
On Jan. i, 1877, Joseph H. Keane appeared in "Rip Van Winkle;" Jan. 15. 22, 29, Mrs. G. C. Howard was seen as Topsy in "Uncle Tom's Cabin." On Jan. 22 J. B. Ayres was announced as the manager. The musical comedy, " Marton, La Jolie Bouqu6tierre " was presented the week of Feb. 5. "Our Boys "was done Feb. 19, by the consent of Aug. Daly. In the
542 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1877
cast were Thos. Whiff en, Mark Bates, Chas. Loveday, J. G. Sa- ville, Annie Edmondson, Genevieve Stebbins, Mrs. Sol Smith, and May Gallagher. John T. Hinds began an engagement Feb. 26 in "Inshavogue." This was withdrawn after the second night, and "Trodden Down," with Mr. and Mrs. Harry Watkins, was substituted. Mr. Watkins had convinced Mr. Banvard that " In- shavogue " was a pirated version of " Trodden Down, or Under Two Flags." Mr. and Mrs. Watkins continued the following week, March 5, in "Trodden Down," and week of March 12 in "Kathleen Mavourneen." Mrs. J. H. Hackett appeared March 19 in "Medea." Marian Mordaunt began March 26, for two weeks, in "Our Girls." P. E. Sullivan, Louis Barrett, E. D. Walton, Harry Vaughan, Thomas Owens, and Chas. Allison were of the company. April 9, Marian Mordaunt produced "The Mechanic's Daughter, or The Curse of Drink." The house suddenly closed April II.
James Duff was the next lessee of the theatre. He took posses- sion April 18, and opened April 30, for two weeks, with "The Wonder Child, or the Follies of Earth, Air, and Sea. " The house was closed abruptly on May 16.
A summer season commenced on June 2, with Chas. E. Newton as the manager. John A. Stevens was the attraction in "Un- known," but he lasted only four days. Stevens, Nina Varian, J. J. Wallace, Chas. Foster, and W. M. Ward were in the company.
Fanny Louise Buckingham leased the house for two weeks, mak- ing her American debut July 2 in " Mazeppa. " Wm. H. Leake, James M. Hardie, Chas. Norris, R. C. White, John Germon, Oliver Wren, Gussie de Forrest, Isabella Preston, Lulu Jordan, and Louise Sylvester were in the company. The house closed July 14. John Germon died in New York, May 6, 1901. Oliver Wren died at Havre de Grace, Md., April 28, 1901. James Duff reopened the house Aug. 22, 1877, with the new play, "The Danites ; " Mr. and Mrs. McKee Rankin were the stars, and with this cast :
Alex. McGee . . . McKee Rankin Grasshopper Jake . . B. T. Ringgold
Bill Alex. Fitzgerald
Hezekiah Geo. Waldron
Washee Harry Pratt
Sallie Sloan Ida Jeffreys
Henrietta Ada Gilman
Charlie Louis Aldrich
Wm. Wise .... Wm. H. Lytell Thomas . . . . G. Vining Bowers Stubbs ..... W. G. Cogswell
Nancy Kitty Blanchard
Huldah Lillie Eldridge
Sept. 26 "Oliver Twist" was acted, with Mr. Rankin as Fagin, Kitty Blanchard as Nancy Sikes, and Louis Aldrich as Bill Sikes.
Marie Aimee appeared here Oct. i, with a French Opera Bouffe company, in "La Marjolaine" for two weeks. "Girofle-Girofla" was presented Oct. 15, 17, 19, and matinee, Oct. 20, with Aim6e
1878]
THE BROADWAY THEATRE
543
in title rdle. Oct. 16, 18, "La Grande Duchesse;" Oct. 22, 23, 24, 27, "Le Petit Faust," Aimee as Marguerite, Mile. Mario as Mephisto; Oct. 25, " La Fille de Madame Angot ; " Oct. 26, "La Marjolaine;" Oct. 29, "La Belle Helena; " Oct. 30, "Girofle- Girofla;" Oct. 31, for the benefit of Aimde, she appeared as Boulotte in "Barbe Bleue;" Nov. 3, she closed with "Barbe Bleue."
The regular season opened Nov. 5, 1877, with Mme. Janauschek in "Briinhilde." Fred Warde, Frederic Robinson, James Taylor, G. B. Waldron, W. G. Cogswell, Jeffreys Lewis, Alice Gray, Carlotta Evelyn, and Adelaide Cherrie were in the company. "Chesney Wold" was played Nov. 12, with Janauschek as Lady Dedlock and Hortense; Nov. 19, "Mary Stuart;" Nov. 20, 22, "Brunhilde;" Nov. 21, 23, "Chesney Wold;" matinee, Nov. 24, "Mary Stuart,"
" Antony and Cleopatra " was produced Nov. 26, Rose Eytinge as Cleopatra. There was an Egyptian ballet with Betty Rigl as premikre danseuse. It ran until Dec. 17, when Charles Fechter appeared in "Monte Cristo," which had this cast:
Dantes C. Fechter Faria Thos. J. Hind
Nortier F. B. Warde Old Dantes .... E. F. Taylor
Albert B. T. Ringgold Penelen R. J. Dustan
Villefort Jas. Taylor Gov. of Prison .... J. Deveau
Caderousse .... Chas. Leclercq Brigadier .... Delancy Barclay
Fernand Chas. Rockwell Mercedes Jeffreys Lewis
Morel W. G. Cogswell Carconte Alice Gray
Danglars G. B. Waldron Woman .... Adelaide Cherrie
Mad Danglars . . Carlotta Evelyn
^Mr. Fechter acted in "Monte Cristo" until Jan. 14, 1878, when he appeared in "No Thoroughfare," for the first time in this city, and repeated it all that week, also Jan. 21, 22, 26; Jan. 23, "Monte Cristo;" Jan. 24, "Hamlet;" Jan. 25 and matinee, Jan. 26, "Ruy Bias."
Alfred Dampier, the Australian actor, made his dibut here Jan. 28, in "The Lyons Mail." Feb. 4 "Helen's Babies" was presented.
Clara Morris appeared Feb. 11 in "Jane Eyre." On Washing- ton's Birthday " Pink Dominos " was acted, and continued all the next week.
"The Exiles," adapted from Sardou, by Geo. Fawcett Rowe, was first given in this city March 4. Emily Rigl, Ada Gilman, Minnie Cummings, Fred. Warde, Alfred Dampier, and Milnes Levick acted in it. It was played for the last time here April 20. The same play was produced at Booth's Theatre by Tompkins & Hill, April 9. Geo. C. Boniface appeared April 22 in "The Soldier's Trust;" April 29 Imogene was seen in "Gretchen;"
544 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1879
May 6 Minnie Doyle came in "Magnolia," supported by Louis Aldrich and Wm. J. Le Moyne. Hernandez Foster commenced May 13 in "Jack Harkaway," for the matinees, while C. W. Barry was the attraction at night in " Broken Fetters." For the matinee, May 20, Edwin Byron, in "The Fool's Revenge;" evening, C. W. Barry in "Escaped from Sing Sing." T. H. Morrell acted "Richelieu," and the senate scene from "Damon and Pythias," evenings. May 27, 28; Edwin Byron played "Richard III." May 29, 30, 31, June I, when the season closed.
A summer season commenced July i, with Imogene in the comedy of "Nature." The season was a brief one, and the house reverted to Mr. Banvard, who leased it to George Edgar and Chandos Fulton, who opened it Sept. 9, 1878, with Ada Caven- dish in " The New Madgalen." Joseph Wheelock was Julian Gray, and Julia Hanchett, Grace. Rose Eytinge followed Sept. 23, for two weeks, in "A Woman of the People." J. A. Kennedy, Jos. Wheelock, M. V. Lingham, Cyril Searle, W. H. Crompton, Eliza O' Conner, and Laura Le Claire (first wife of Josh Hart, now the wife of Will A. Sands) were in the cast. Rose Eytinge acted Nancy Sikes in "Oliver Twist," Oct. 7. John W. Albaugh appeared Oct. 14 as Louis XL, followed Oct. 21, by Elizabeth Von Stamwitz, for two weeks, as Messalina in the play of that name. Mr. and Mrs. Geo. S. Knight came Nov. 4 in "Otto," and continued until Dec. 9, when Barney Macaulay made his metropolitan debut, acting Daniel in "A Messenger From Jarvis Section." Macaulay met with considerable success, and he con- tinued with this play until Jan. 13, 1879, when the Lingards — William, Horace, Alice Dunning, and Dickie — were seen in "Les Fourchambault. "
Geo. Edgar made his New York debut Jan. 27, acting "King Lear," with Joseph Wheelock as Edgar, and Marie Gordon as Cordelia. On Feb. 10, " Othello " was played, with Wheelock as lago, Edgar as the Moor, and Marie Gordon as Desdemona. " Enoch Arden " was given, matinees, Wednesday and Saturday, with Mr. Wheelock in the title r61e. The house was closed Monday, Feb. 17, and remained dark until Feb. 21, when Gil- bert and Sullivan's operetta, "The Sorcerer," was produced with Matilda Scott (her American debut) as Aline, Wm. Horace Lin- gard as John Wellington Wells, and J. F. Graff as Alexis. Flor- ence Wood, Annie Boudinot, Minnie Clive, Tom Bullock, and Crompton were also in the cast. " Pinafore " was sung March 10, by the Gorman Philadelphia church choir company, under the management of James Meade. Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Knight re- appeared April 28 in "Otto." On May 12 the Gorman company reappeared in "Pinafore." A season commenced May 26, with Rose Lisle in "The Foundlings." Sam Deverc commenced a
18793
DALY'S THEATRE
545
fortnight's engagement June 2 in "Jasper." The season closed June 14.
The next manager of this house was Augustin Daly, who made many alterations in the building and called the theatre, from his own name, "Daly's Theatre." The company consisted of Charles Fisher, William Davidge, Chas. Leclercq, Harry Lacy, Geo. Parkes, Hart Conway, Geo. Morton, John Drew, E. P. Wilks, Frank Bennett, F. Ireton, Max Freeman, Walter Edmunds, Percy Hunting, E. Sterling, J. F. Watson, J. L. Solomons, J. D. Murphy, E. P. Smith, J. W. Walshe, N. S. Burnham, L. F. Laurence, W. H. Newborough, W. S. Edwards, J. Meridan, Mrs. Charles Poole, Helen Blye (afterwards known as Helen Blythe and now Mrs. J. F. Brien), Catherine Lewis, May Fielding, Ada Rehan, Margaret Lanner, Georgine Flagg, Anna Wakeman, Regina Dace, Mabel Jordan, Florence Cecil, Maggie Harold (Mrs. Wm. Davidge, Jr.), Estelle Clayton, Maggie Barnes, May Bowers, Sydney Nelson, Laura Thorpe, Sara Lascelles, Lillie Stuart, Blanche Weaver, Minnie Wharton, Emma Turner, Dora Knowlton, Fannie McNeil, Emma Hinckley (Mrs. James Clute), Ida Bruce, Ella Remetze, Grace Logan, and Isabelle Evesson. E. Mollen- hauer was musical director and James Roberts, scenic artist. Daly's Theatre opened Sept. 17, with "Love's Young Dream," which had this cast:
Jotham Dibble . . . Charles Fisher Fred Schemerhorn . . . Harry Lacy- Florence May Fielding
Nelly Beers .... Ada Rehan
Jack Beers Geo. Parkes
Nap E. P. Wilks
This was the first appearance on any stage of May Fielding. She was formerly in a church choir at Detroit, Mich. She was afterwards married to A. L. del Campo, an actor who travelled with Aim^e as leading man for two seasons. "Newport, or the Swimmer, the Singer, and the Cipher," was the afterpiece, and had this cast:
Hon. Peter Porter . Charles Leclercq Hon. U. B. Blode . . W. Davidge Capt. Chickering . . Geo. Parkes Crutch Reynolds . Walter Edmunds Hon. Mrs. Peter Porter,
Catherine Lewis Widow Warboys, Mrs. Charles Poole Miss Alex. Byrdde . Estelle Clayton Victoria Cattelle . . Blanche Weaver Ben Boulgate .... Hart Conway Tom Sanderson .... John Drew
Capt. Blackwell .... F. Ireton
Undo Frank Bennett
Toggs Maggie Barnes
Midget Laura Thorpe
Thompson E. Sterling
Ginger E. P. Wilks
OflScer P. Hunting
Belle Blode . . . Georgine Flagg (now Mrs. Mark Price)
Cosette Anna Wakeman
Eugenie Fyshhe . . . May Bowers
This was the first appearance on any stage of Blanche Weaver. Sept. 30 " Divorce " was revived, with this cast : VOL. II. — 35
546 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsso
Alfred Adriance . Capt. Lynd . . Harry Duncan Lu Ten Eyck . . Fanny Ten Eyck De Wolf De Witt Mrs. Ten Eyck .
. . H. Lacy Geo. Parkes . John Drew . Ada Rehan . Helen Blye Wm. Davidge Mrs. Chas. Poole
Templeton Jitt . . Chas. Leclercq Mrs. Judge Kemp . Sydney Nelson
Burritt Chas. Fisher
Judge Kemp .... John Moore
Grace Margaret Lanner
Flora Regina Dace
Molly Maggie Harold
Oct. 1 8 "Wives," by Bronson Howard, was played; Nov. 29 " An Arabian Night " was produced with Catherine Lewis as the Wild Rose. A matinee performance was given Dec. 10, in aid of the Seventh Regiment new armory fund.
The cast of " An Arabian Night " was :
Alex. Sprinkle .... John Drew Herbert Rumbrent . . . Harry Lacy Lafayette Moodle . . . Geo. Parkes " Signor " Hercules Sermith,
Charles Leclercq Mrs. Louise Sprinkle, Maggie Harold Kate Sprinkle . . . Margaret Lanner
There was no performance Tuesday evening, Jan. 27, 1880, nor matinee, Jan. 28, in consequence of preparations for "A Royal Middy," produced for the first time on any stage, Jan. 28, and with this cast:
Mrs. Weebles . . Mrs. Charles Poole Rosa Maybloom . . Catherine Lewis
Uncle Major John Moore
John Frank Bennett
Peter Mr. Hunting
Portley Zelma Valdimer
Don Lamberto . . . Alonzo Hatch Don Januario Paragu, J. Macdonough Don Domingos Doming, Chas. Leclercq
Captain Norberto Francesco . . . Marie Francesca The Royal Middy Donna Antonina . Giovannio . . .
Chas. Fisher
Walter Edmonds
Lillie Vinton
Catherine Lewis
. . Ada Rehan
Emma Hinckley
Paulo Dora Knowlton
Enrico Isabelle Evesson
Carlo Nellie Howard
Jago Sara Lascelles
Fanchette May Fielding
Joaquino E. P. Smith
Sebastino Kitty Maxwell
Julio Georgine Flagg
A matinee performance March 17 was for The Herald Irish relief fund. "The Way We Live," a comedy of "contemporaneous interest," based on the German of L'Arronge, was presented April 10, for the first time, cast thus:
Maj. Sidney Lincoln . Charles Fisher Clyde Monograme . . . John Drew Fred Van Schaick . . . Harry Lacy Rutherford De Peck . Geo. Parkes Bryan O'Dodd . . Charles Leclercq Col. Remmerson ... P. Hunting Commissioner Schatz . W. Edwards Judge Stuttervent ... J. Watson Cherry Monograme . . . Ada Rehan Regina Van Schaick,
Mrs. Charles Poole Harriet Langley . . . May Fielding Teckle O'Dodd . . . Maggie Harold Fanny Martin . . Georgine Flagg Bella Remmerson . Margaret Lanner
Alpha De Jones Mrs. Stuttervent Miss Brevoort Mrs. Schimmer Mrs. De Smythe Jeanette Miss Hurd Miss Rensler Mrs. Schatz Miss Curd Georgie Gov. Rensler Mr. Beevoort Jack Sprint Maria . .
Isabelle Evesson
. Regina Dace Sallie Williams
Emma Hinckley
Miss Remetze
Kitty Maxwell
Lillie Vinton
Miss Knowlton
Miss Lascelles
Miss Howard
Lillie Waters
. J. F. Brien
. E. P. Smith
. E. Sterling
Blanche Weaver
iSSo}
DALY'S THEATRE
547
"The Royal Middy" was revived on April 7, followed, April 30, by "An Arabian Night." The season closed on May i. There were played during the season "Newport" and "Love's Young Dream," fifteen times; "Divorce," three; "Wives," forty-eight; "Fernande," three; "Man and Wife," three; "An Arabian Night," seventy-six; "The Royal Middy," eighty-six; "Charity," three; "The Way We Live," twenty-one.
A supplementary season of four weeks commenced May 3, with Salsbury's Troubadours in "Cross Purposes," and "The Brook."
Mr. Daly commenced his second season Aug. 18, 1880. Among the new faces were: J. H. Swinburne, Geo. S. Robinson, W. H. Bokee, Emily Rigl, and Fanny Morant. "Tiote," adapted by Fred Williams, was the first production, and had this cast :
Sir Wm. Howden Sir Hugh Morgan Daddy Cadvan . Lady Normant . Dame Crofton . Sidney Ferrers ) Jaclc Ferrers j The Gul Eray f Darrel Crofton f Cecil Asper
. J. H. Swinburne . . W. H. Bokee . Charles Leclercq . . Fanny Morant Mrs. Charles Poole
. . . John Drew
. . . Harry Lacy Geo. S. Robinson
Owen E. Sterling
Gwendolen Emily Rigl
Nancy Blanche Vaughan
Gwillian .... Sallie Williams
Rosy Isabelle Evesson
Issopel Ada Rehaa
Sanpriel J. E. Brand
Syneye J. Macdonough
Crook Fin E. P. Wilks
Ursula MaySylvie
Jenksen W. H. Beekman
Girls of the Village : Emma Hinckley, EUie Vinton, Nellie Howard, Kitty Maxwell, Fanny McNeil, Ada Featherstone, Miss Hamilton, Miss Donaldson, Miss Porter, Miss Brooks, Miss Barton, Miss Kirwin, and Miss Kirkland.
" Our First Families " was seen here for the first time Sept. 23, and the cast was :
Leonardo Tompkyns . James Lewis Geofiirey Knickerbocker . John Drew Van Horn Knickerbocker,
Charles Fisher Rateal Ludovici . • Charles Leclercq Grace Josselyn . . Georgine Flagg Mrs. Stanhope . . . Fanny Morant Mrs. Van Renselleer, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Kitty Ludlum .... Nellie Howard Ellie Vandam . . . Emma Hinckley
This was the first appearance at this theatre of James Lewis, Laura Joyce, and Mrs. G. H. Gilbert. " Needles and Pins " had its first performance on any stage Nov. 9, with this cast :
Sue Murray . . . Virginia Brooks
Grigg Hart Conway
Van Cortlandt . . . F. V. Bennett
Ten Eyck E. Sterling
Rutgers J. Macdonough
Hebe Josselyn .... Laura Joyce
Eva Ada Rehan
Celestine Maggie Harold
Amelia Blanche Weaver
Christopher Vandusen . Chas. Fisher Sergeant Macdonald . Mr. Roberts Mrs. Vandusen . . . Fanny Morant Dosie Heffron . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Silena Vandusen .... Ada Rehan
Blot Mr. Beekman
Box Mr. Lawrence
Mary Forest .... May Fielding Caroline .... Maggie Harold Nicholas Geagle .... Jas. Lewis
Kit Vandusen John Brand
Tom Versus John Drew
Jonah E. P. Wilks
548 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dssi
Mr. Daly's adaptation of Gende's "Zamina, or the Rover of Cambaye," was done for the first time on any stage Jan. i8, 1881, when Digby Bell first appeared here. The cast was :
His Oriental Excellency Bomma
Poota Digby Bell
Captain Trafalgar . . . Harry Lacy Lumlini Strakoschini . James Lewis Simmondsino Rinaldo, Charles Leclercq Signorina Zamina . . Laura Joyce
Meada May Sylvie
Muttra Ada Rehan
Nauchida .... Maggie Harold
Frenchinini .... E. P. Wilks Africanus .... Thomas Hengler
Luna Delamanning
Montiel John Brand
Moro Khan ... J. Macdonough
AUabad Wm. Paul Bown
Morok Mr. Roberts
Panalon Mr. Lawrence
Nuna May Fielding
" Needles and Pins " was revived Feb. 14, and acted until March 4, when it reached its one hundredth performance.
" Cinderella at School " was produced March 5, for the first time on any stage. It was a musical comedy by Woolson Morse, para- phrased from Aukenbrodel's play, as was W. T. Robertson's comedy of " School. " The cast was :
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert . Miss A. Perring . . E. P. Wilks . . May Fielding . . Laura Joyce
Arthur Bicycle . . . Harry Lacy Zenobia Tropics
Jack Polo John Brand Miss Globes .
Syntax James Lewis Jenkinson . .
Lord Lawntennys . Charles Leclercq Niobe Marsh .
Professor Kindergarten . Paul Bown Merope Mallow Psyche Persimmons . . Ada Rehan
The season closed on April 30, with "Our First Families," " Needles and Pins " (third act), and " Cinderella at School " (third act). There were produced during the season : "First Families," fifty-six times; "Needles and Pins," one hundred and three; "Zamina," thirty; "Cinderella at School," sixty-five times.
A summer season commenced May 2 for four weeks, with Eaton's comedy, "All the Rage," and closed May 28.
The next season began Aug. 9, 1881, with "Cinderella at School." Among the newcomers to the theatre were Geo. Van- denhoff, Jr., W. J. Nowlan, and Mr. Bedell. Joseph H. Tooker was business manager. " Quits, or A Game of Tit for Tat " was seen Sept. 7, for the first time on any stage. W. J. Le Moyne and Helen Tracy appeared for the first time at this theatre, under Daly's management.
On Sept. 20 all of the theatres in New York, also in many other cities throughout the country, were closed in consequence of Presi- dent James A. Garfield's death at Elberon, Long Branch, N. J., Sept. 19. All save Daly's, the Windsor, and the variety theatres were again closed Sept. 26, when the final obsequies were per- formed at Cleveland, Ohio.
On Oct. 5 "Americans Abroad," by Edgar Fawcett, was first acted, and was a failure. "Royal Youth," for the first time in
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America, Oct. 22. This was another failure. Helen Bancroft was in the cast.
" The Passing Regiment " was a comedy adapted by Mr. Daly from the German of G. Von Moser and Herr Schoenthan ; it was presented Nov. 10, with this cast :
Linthieum Winthrop, J. W. Shannon Milinda Winthrop, Mrs. Charles Poole Telka EssofE . . . Virginia Brooks Peregrine Bunker . . . E. Bartram Mathilda Bunker . . . May Sylvia Young Mr. Hoffmeister . E. P. Wilks Col. Van Kleek . . Chas. Rockwell Dolf Van Tassell, Harry Macdonough
Milly Merritt Scipio . . Mary Anne Sophie . . Solomon Linda . . Paul Exter Thorpe Sydam
Georgine Flagg . Mr. Eldridge Kate Gurney Miss Parkhurst . J. J. Douglass Marie Williams B. T. Ringgold . . Digby Bell
" Odette, " an adaptation from M. Sardou by Mr. Daly, was first acted Feb. 6, 1882, and cast thus :
Gen. Clermont • . W. J. Le Moyne Duke de Meryan . . D. R. Young De Frontenac . Geo. VandenhofF, Jr. Anatole Morlzot . . Chas. Leclercq Sir Henry Pecock . . . H. Roberts Chevalier Carvani . . . W. Bedell The Infant Berangere, Little Angelica
Jeanne Miss Hapgood
Count Clermont . . . . H. M. Pitt
De Lahoche John Drew
Bechamel James Lewis
Cardailhan Geo. Parkes
Dr. Oliva John Moore
Eustache .... W. H. Beekman Jaques Mr. Hamilton
Baroness Conaro-Doria,
Madame Morizot . Princess de Gortz " Miss " Sarah Laurent . . . Narcisse . . Ignacio Esteban The Countess Berangere . Juliette . . Olga . . . Jeannette . Mile. Bertin
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert . Nellie Howard Emma Hinckley . Agnes Perring . . Mr. Saleon . . C. Jackson . . E. Sterling . . Ada Rehan Bijou Heron . May Fielding Isabelle Evesson . Emily Denin . Lillie Vinton
On April 3 a matinee performance of " Odette " was given in aid of the Actors' Fund. Henry Miller was in the cast.
"Gironetto the Weather Cock," adapted for this theatre by Robert Stoepel and Fred. Williams, was first acted April 13. The season closed May 20. There were acted during its course : "Cinderella at School," forty times; "Quits," twenty-seven; "Raven's Daughter," four; "Frou Frou," eight; "Americans "Royal Youth," eleven; "Passing Regi- and two; "Odette," seventy-seven; "Giro-
Abroad," seventeen; ment," one hundred netto," forty-four. The fourth season
commenced on Aug. 9, with "The Passing Regiment." "Mankind" had its first representation in America Sept. 5. In it Yorke Stephens (his first appearance here) acted Warren, Florence Elmore (first appearance here) played Maitland, Hattie Russell (her first appearance), and Helen Leyton made her American d6but, acting Melton. Among the first appearances here were Laura Le Claire, Ida Aubrey, and William Morris. The
550 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1883
theatre was closed evening, Oct. 9, for a dress rehearsal of Pinero's play, " The Squire," produced Oct. 10, for the first time in America. Virginia Dreher made her d^but with this company as Christie Haggerstone. This lady studied under John W. Norton of St. Louis, and was first seen in that city March 30, 1882, at the Grand Opera House, as Julia in "The Hunchback." She was married in 1882 to Mr. Dreher, a German music teacher, of Louisville, Ky. After his death she went on the stage and was Ada Rehan's only successful rival at this theatre. Miss Dreher had many suitors, but chose G. F. Postlethwaite, a young wealthy Englishman, whom she married. She is now living in retirement at Chicago. She retired from the stage after her return from Europe with Mr. Daly's company, September, 1887. The cast of "The Squire" was:
Rev. Mr. Dormer . . Chas. Fisher Lieut. Thorndyke . . . John Drew Gilbert Hythe . . . Yorke Stephens
Gunnison James Lewis
Ized Haggerstone . William Gilbert The Shabby Parson, E. Tom Webber
Rob Johns, Jr. . . W. H. Beekman Mr. Fell . . George Vandenhoff, Jr.
Kate Verity Ada Rehan
Christie Haggerstone, Virginia Dreher
Felicity May Fielding
Mrs. Fell Agnes Perring
"Our English Friend," by the author of "A Passing Regiment" and "An Arabian Night," was first acted here Nov. 25, when Clement Bainbridge made his first appearance here as Frederic. "She Would and She Would Not" was produced Jan. 15, 1883 (not as announced for the first time in New York in fourteen years). The cast here was:
Don Manuel .... Chas. Fisher
Don Philip John Drew
Don Octavio . . . Yorke Stephens
Trapanti James Lewis
Soto Wm. Gilbert
Donna Rosara . . Virginia Dreher
Violetta May Fielding
Flora Helen Leyton
Donna Hypolita .... Ada Rehan
An adaptation by Mr. Daly from the French of Georges Ohnet, entitled "Serge Panine," had its first performance Feb. 1, with this cast:
Serge Panine . Max Cayrol Tommy Diele . Jack Manning Parsons . . Baron Hertzog
. . John Drew . Chas. Fisher James Lewis Yorke Stephens E. Tom Webber Chas. Leclercq
Aga Mrs. Gilbert
Micheline May Fielding
Letty Belgew Mary Shaw
Mrs. Belgew .... Fanny Morant Jenny de Cernas . . . Ada Rehan
This was Fanny Morant's first appearance here this season, and also that of Mary Shaw. " Serge Panine " was a failure and was withdrawn Feb. 7 for "The Squire." On March 28 "Seven Twenty-eight, or Casting the Boomerang " was acted for the first
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time. It was an adaptation by Mr. Daly from the German of Von Schoenthan. The season closed April 7, John L. Stoddard began art lectures April 9.
There were acted during the season: "Passing Regiment," twenty-four times; "Mankind," forty; "The Squire," sixty-three; "Our English Friends," fifty-eight; "She Would and She Would Not," twenty-nine; "Seven Twenty-eight," fifty-one.
Carrie Swain appeared April 23 with "Cad the Tomboy." The French opera company with Mile. Th6o and Capoul in " La Fille de Madame Angot. " Th^o took a benefit and made her last ap- pearance in America May 22, when the programme was " La Mas- cotte" (first act), "Cloches de Corneville" (third act), and, for the first time in America, "Pomme d'Api." This closed the season.
The season of 1883-84 opened Aug. 23 with James Duff's com- pany in the operetta " Heart and Hand, " and cast thus :
Prince George Sweet
Micaela Marie Conran
JosefEa Louise Paullin
Morales .... Wallace Macreary Donna Scholastica . . . Rosa Cook The King J. H. Ryley
The dramatic season commenced Oct. 2 with "Dollars and Sense," from the German of L'Arronge, by Daly. The company was: Ada Rehan, Mrs. Gilbert, May Fielding, Virginia Dreher, Helen Leyton, Lizzie Jeremy, Agnes Perring, Jean Gordon, Bell Brown, Maggie Marshall, Louise Crissy, May Irwin, Charles Fisher, James Lewis, John Drew, Chas. Leclercq, Wm. Gilbert, Yorke Stephens, Geo. Parkes, C. Bainbridge, W. H. Thompson, John Stapleton, Henry Saleon, Wm. Collier, and W. H. Beekman. The cast of "Dollars and Sense" was:
Pierre Tremont . . . Chas. Fisher Elipbalet Lamb .... Jas. Lewis Col. Jefferson Quincy Briggs,
C. Leclercq Harry Latimer .... John Drew Jack Stephens . . Yorke Stephens Groggles . . . . W. H. Thompson
Roberts W. H. Beekman
Sophie Lamb .... Mrs. Gilbert Sybilla Briggs . . Virginia Dreher Hope Hammerster . . Majr Fielding
Lizzie Lizzie Jeremy
Lyddy Miss Marshall
Phronie Ada Rehan
" Girls and Boys " was acted for the first time in America, Dec. S- Bijou Fernandez and Kitty Paterson were in the cast. It was withdrawn Dec. 12 for "Seven Twenty-eight," which had this cast:
Flos Ada Rehan
Hypato Mrs. Gilbert
Dora Virginia Dreher
Jessie Helen Leyton
Barges James Lewis
Carliss John Drew
Gasleagh . Hollyhock . Tamberidi . The Postman Jobebus . .
Chas. Leclercq
Yorke Stephens
. . Wm. Gilbert
W. H. Thompson
. . W. Beekman
552 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 1:1884
"The Country Girl," altered from Wycherly's "Country Wife," was presented Feb. 16, 1884, for the first time in New York since 1839. The cast was:
Jacob Moody .... Chas. Fisher
Dick Melville John Drew
Ned Harcourt , . Yorke Stephens
Sharkish Geo. Parkes
Robin W. Beekman
Old Will J. Stapleton
Mrs. Althea . , . Virginia Dreher
Lucy Helen Leyton
Peggy Thrift Ada Rehan
"Red Letter Nights, or Catching a Croesus," an adaptation from the German, by Mr. Daly, was first acted March 12. The season closed April 10.
A summer season opened April 24, with the first production in America of Strauss' opera, "A Night in Venice," by James C. Duff's opera company. It had this cast:
Duke of Urbino . . Walter Temple Barthomeo Delacqua . . Aug. Bruno Stefano Barbaruccio, D. G. Longworth Georgia Testaccio . . E. P. Wilks
Pappacoda E. L. Connell
Constantia . . . Maude Waldemere Caramello . . . W. H. Fitzgerald
Centurio Ida Bell
Balbi Alex. Mair
Annina Louise Lester
Ciboletta Marie Hunter
Barbara Alice Vincent
Agricola Marie Bauman
Enrico .... Master Hampshire
There was a pigeon ballet, with Eugenia Cappalini as premUre. A charity matinee in aid of the Home of the Holy Family occurred May 26, when " Seven Twenty-eight " was given. This closed the season.
Lotta appeared here Sept. 15 in "Mamzelle Nitouche," which had this cast:
Celestin . Fern and Major Loriot . Gustave First Soldier Second Soldier
C. H. Bradshaw Frederick Darrell
. R. J. Dustan
. J. H. Stuart
Edgar F. Girard
C. Harrie Hopper
Charles Stevens
Director of Theatre Stage Manager . The Lady Superior Lydia Blette . . The Janitress . . Corinne .... Sylvia ....
. . W. St. Clair . Geo. Fredericks
Adelaide Eaton Bertha Livingstone . . Alice Brown
Josie Shepherd . . Dollie Delroy
Josie Shepherd is the daughter of Mrs. Wm. J. Florence.
Mr. Daly, having made a European trip with his company, began his regular season Oct. 7, 1884, with the German play of " A Wooden Spoon, " for the first time on any stage, by Franz Von Schoenthan, a young author of Vienna, whose "Der Schwaen- streich " furnished Mr. Daly with the material for " Seven Twenty -eight. " On this occasion Otis Skinner and Fred Bird first appeared at this theatre. Edith Kingdon made her New York debut acting Mysia. This young lady's beauty and talents speedily made her a favorite with the Daly audiences. A great future was predicted for her, but she evidently preferred the solid
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comforts afforded by boundless wealth to the fleeting glories of the stage; and after a brief career at this theatre she married Mr. George Gould, the "multimillionaire," September, 1886, and re- tired into private life.
On Nov. 15 Pinero's comedy "Lords and Commons" was seen for the first time in America, thus cast :
Earl of Caryl . . . Lord Percy Lewiscourt Dr. Palnacott . Tom Jervoise Senee . . ■ Chad . . . Tredger . . .
Otis Skinner Chas. Leclercq . Fred Bond . John Drew James Lewis . Ed Wilks W. H. Beekman
Pressenger . . . Countess of Caryl Lady Neil . . . Mrs. Deverish Mrs. Vince . . Miss Maplebeck .
J. Stapleton Mrs. Gilbert . . Ada Rehan Virginia Dreher . Miss Perring . May Fielding
"Love on Crutches," Daly's adaptation of a German comedy by Stobitzer, was originally acted Nov. 25, and was played for the ninetieth and last time at the matinde of Feb. 7, 1885. It had this cast:
Sidney Austin .... John Drew Guy Roverly .... Otis Skinner
Dr. Epenetus Jas. Lewis
Mr. Bitteredge . . . Wm. Gilbert Eudoxia Quattles, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Margery Gwynn . . Edith Kingdon
Netty Jennie Trevor
Podd Fred Bond
Bells W. Beekman
Annis Austin Ada Rehan
Bertha Jean Gordon
A matinee performance Jan. 8, 1885, of "One Touch of Na- ture," by the Union Square Theatre company; "Seven Twenty- eight," by Daly's players; the screen scene from "The School for Scandal," by Wallack's company; and the "Private Secretary," by the Madison Square Theatre players, was for the benefit of the Actors' Fund.
"The Recruiting Officer" was produced evening, Feb. 7, and continued until March 23. This comedy had not been played in this city since March 24, 1843. Its first performance in New York was at the first Nassau Street Theatre Sept. 13, 1750. The cast here was :
Captain Plume Capt. Brazen . Justice Ballance Sergeant Kite Worthy . . . Bullock . . . Appletree . .
. John Drew Geo. Parkes
Chas. Fisher James Lewis Otis Skinner Wm. Gilbert
. Fred Bond
Pearman Ed Wilks
Stewart W. H. Beekman
Mistress Melinda . Virginia Dreher
Rose May Fielding
Lucy May Irving
Sylvia Ada Rehan
"She Would and She Would Not" was revived on Feb. 24, and "The Country Girl," Feb. 28. "A Woman's Won't" preceded the comedy, with this cast: The Father-in-law, Mr. Lewis; the
554 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1885
Husband, Mr. Skinner; the Man Servant, Mr. Gilbert; the Mother- in-law, Mrs. Gilbert; the Wife, Miss Fielding; the Maid Servant, May Irwin. It was an adaptation from the German ("Gott Sei Dank, Der Tisch 1st' Gedeckt") and although done on the road by Mr. Daly's company had never been played here. Under the title of "Dieu Merci! Le Convert Est Mis," it had long been a favorite French farce.
The first performance on any stage of Mr. Daly's adaptation from the German of Franz Von Schoenthan, entitled " A Night Off, or a Page from Balzac," took place March 4. The cast was:
Justinian Babbitt Harry Damask Jack Mulberry Lord Mulberry Prowl . . . Mrs. Zantippe Babbitt, Mrs.
James Lewis
Francis Carlyle
Herbert Gresham
Charles Leclercq
E. McLaughlin
G. H. Gilbert
Misbe Percy Haswell
Angelica Damask . . Laura Hanson
Susan Catherine Lewis
Maria Eugenie Upham
Marcus Brutus Snap . Henry Dixey
The season closed March 18; the comedy was supplemented by an original epilogue in verse, by Edgar Fawcett, and delivered by the members of the company, who had appeared in the play. The theatre was closed March 20, in order to give Clara Morris an opportunity for a final rehearsal of Dumas' "Denise." The first performance in America of this play occurred April 21. The cast was:
Denise ...... Clara Morris
Martha Bijou Heron
Clarisse Blanche Thome
Madame de Thasette . Effie Germon Madame Brissot, Mrs. Thomas Whiffen Madame de Pontferrand,
Agnes Perring
Fernand de Thasette . A. L. Lipman M. de Pontferrand . . George Parkes A Domestic .... E. P. Wilks
Andre Joseph Haworth
Thouvennin .... Frank Losee M. Brissot H. A. Weaver
This was Clara Morris's first appearance at this theatre. She played three weeks. Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Florence began a month's stay Sept. 7, in "Our Governor." "The Mighty Dollar" was produced Sept. 28, with this cast :
Hon. Bardwell Slote . W. J. Florence Mrs. Gen'l Gilflory, Mrs. W. J. Florence Charley Brood . . . Earle Sterling Lord Cairngorme . Henry Holland Arthur Lemaitre . . . Edwin Nalod Hon. Geo. Saville . . J. H. Browne Geo. Washington Skidmore,
F. C. Wells Lafayette Berry . . . C. W. Parker Tarquinious Darwin . . W. Macready
Senator Weatherwax . H. Williams Hon. D. Hogwhistle . . Jas. Stanton Clara Dart .... Ethel Greybrooke Blanch Mossthorne . . Hattie Russell Miss Hopeful . . Mrs. Chas. Peters
Col. Dart James Dunn
Roland Vance Cyril Searle
Caesar R. Hastings
Libby Ray .... Minnie RadcliSe
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The Florences closed Oct. 3.
The winter season opened Oct. 7, 1885, with Pinero's "The Magistrate." It was acted for the first time in America, and played for the seventy-fourth and last time, Dec. 9 (matinee). Hamilton Bell made his American debut in it. The cast was:
Agatha Ada Rehan
iEneus Posket . . . James Lewis
Col. Lukyn John Drew
Captain Otis Skinner
Cis Farrington . . . Hamilton Bell
Beatrice Edith Kingdon
Popham May Irwin
Police Inspector . . Augustus Yorke
Evening of Oct. 9 " A Night Off " was revived, and Mrs. G. H. Gilbert made her first appearance this season. "A Night Off" was played for the last time Oct. 13. On Oct. 14, "The Merry Wives of Windsor," arranged in four acts, was produced :
Sir John Falstaff Master Slender . Sir Hugh Evans . Doctor Caius Host of the Garter Mistress Page Mistress Quickly . Fenton .... Master Shallow . Francis Ford . .
. . Charles Fisher . . James Lewis . Charles Leclercq . William Gilbert Inn, Frederick Bond Virginia Dreher Mrs. G. H. Gilbert . E. Hamilton-Bell . . John Moore . . . John Drew
George Page . Ancient Pistol Corporal Nym Bardolph . . Robin . . . Simple . . . Rugby . . . Mistress Ford Anne Page
Otis Skinner
Geo. Parkes
. . John Wood
. . H. Roberts
Bijou Fernandez
William Collier
. E. P. Wilks
. . Ada Rehan
Edith Kingdon
This comedy was acted, for the thirty-fifth and last time, matinde Feb. 13, 1886. Night "She Would and She Would Not" was re- vived. The cast was nearly the same as that of the previous season, except that Edith Kingdon was the Donna Rosara. A trifle from the French, called "A Wet Blanket," was also done. On Feb. 15, 16, 17, it was repeated.
"The Country Girl " was revived Feb. 18, previous to which was played the farce, " A Sudden Shower. " A new comedy from the German, by Mr. Daly, entitled "Nancy & Co.," was produced evening of Feb. 24. The cast was:
Ebenezer Griffing . . James Lewis Captain Renseller . . Otis Skinner Tippy Brasher . . . Wm. Gilbert Young Sikes Stockslow, Geo. Parkes Mrs. Daugery . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Keefe O'Keefe .... John Drew
A Bellboy Mr. Wood
Oriana Virginia Dreher
Daisey Edith Kingdon
The New Girl .... May Irwin Nancy Brasher .... Ada Rehan
John L. Stoddard commenced a course of illustrated lectures morning, March 15. The season closed May i, 1886, with "Nancy & Co." There were played during this season: "Nancy & Co.," seventy-seven times; "The Magistrate," seventy-five; "A Night
556 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1887
Off," forty-three; "Merry Wives," thirty-five; "She Would and She Would Not," five; "The Country Girl," eight; "A Wet Blanket," five; "A Sudden Shower, " eight ; "Love on Crutches," twice.
The Rosina Yokes company commenced on May 3 with "In Honor Bound," in which Courtenay Thorpe, W. G. Elliot, Leslie Chester, and Agnes Miller were seen; "My Milliner's Bill," with Brandon Thomas and Rosina Yokes in the two leading r61es; and "A Pantomime Rehearsal," in which Weedon Grossmith, Augustus Yorke, and Miss Yokes appeared. This company closed June 5.
Daly's company sailed for Europe May 15, and opened at the Strand Theatre, London, May 27, in "A Night Off."
The next regular season commenced Tuesday evening, Oct. 5, 1886, with the first performance on any stage of "After Business Hours," adapted by Daly from the German of Herr Blumenthal. The cast:
Tommy Chipper . Richard Brandegee Septimus . . . Peter Raritan . . ShoumofE . . .
James Lewis
. John Drew
Geo. Parkes
Chas. Fisher
J. Patten
Mrs. Tommy Chipper . Mrs. Gilbert
Angelina May Irwin
Mrs. Clive Kreesus . . Jean Gordon Arabella .... Nellie Liscomb Doris Brandegee . . . Ada Rehan
It was acted for the last time Nov. 15. On Nov. 16, the first per- formance of "Love in Harness, or Hints to Hymen," took place with this cast :
Julius Naggit . . Frederick Urguhart Jeremiah Joblots . Charley Hoffman Schlagg. . . . Keyes .... Mrs. Joblots . .
James Lewis . John Drew Chas. Fisher Otis Skinner Wm. Gilbert . Fred. Bond Mrs. Gilbert
Rhoda Naggit Jenny Joblots Antoinette . Myrtilla Susan . . Una . . .
Virginia Dreher
Miss Hadley
Jean Gordon
Miss St. Quinten
. Grace Filkins
. . Ada Rehan
It was acted for the seventy-third consecutive time Jan. 17, 1887. This was Lillian Hadley's, Grace Filkins', and Lizzie St. Quin- ten's first appearance here.
On Jan. 18 "Taming of the Shrew" was acted in its entirety for the first time in America by Daly's company. It was cast as follows :
CHARACTERS IN THE INDUCTION:
A Lord Geo. Clarke
Christopher Sly . . . Wm. Gilbert A Page, representing a lady,
Master W. Collier
Huntsmen . Mr. Patten, Mr. Ireton, Mr. Murphy
Players . . Mr. Bond, Mr. Wood, Miss Hadley
The Hostess May Sylvie
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PERSONS IN THE COMEDY
Baptista Charles Fisher Gnimio .
Vincentio John Moore Biondello
Lucentio Otis Skinner Tranio
Petruchio John Drew Katharine
Gremio .... Charles Leclercq Bianca .
Hortensio .... Joseph Holland A Widow
A Pedant John Wood Curtis .
A Tailor Geo. Parkas
James Lewis . . E. P. Wilks Frederick Bond . . Ada Rehan Virginia Dreher Jean Gordon Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Ada Rehan was out of the cast night of March i8 and matinee of March 19. Virginia Dreher played Katharine, and Jean Gordon, Bianca. Miss Rehan resumed March 20.
"The Country Girl" and the farce "A Woman's Wit" were acted afternoon of April i8, for the benefit of the Post Graduate Hospital Fund.
On April 30 " The Country Girl " was done for the last time, finishing a season that had probably exceeded in the wealth of its artistic and monetary value any in Mr. Daly's career. Lester Wallack's company opened here May 16, for a fortnight's revival of "The Romance of a Poor Young Man," Kyrle Bellew as Manuel, John Gilbert as Dr. Desmaret, E. J. Henley as Laroque, Mme. Ponisi as Mme. Laroque, Annie Robe as Marguerite, Helen Russell as Heloise, and Fannie Addison as Brevannes. Herbert Ayling, S. Dubois, Charles Herbert, Howard Perry, W. H. Pope, and Carrie Elberts were also in the company. This organization closed May 28, which marked the final appearance as a stock or- ganization of the Wallack Theatre company.
During the summer a brick proscenium wall, twenty-four inches thick, separated the stage from the auditorium.
Daly's company arrived from Europe Sept. 26, and the season commenced on Oct. 5, 1887, with Pinero's play, "Dandy Dick," for the first time in this country. The staff of the theatre for this season was: scenic, James Roberts; musical, Henry Widmer; stage, John Moore and E. P. Wilks.
"Dandy Dick" received its final performance Nov. i. "The Railroad of Love" (adapted by Atig. Daly from "Goldfische," by Herren Von Schoenthan and Kadelburg) was seen for the first time in America evening of Nov. 2, and had this cast :
General Everett . . Lieut Howell Everett
Phenix Scuttleby . Adam Grinnidge
Judge Van Ryker .
Benny Demaresq .
Valentine Osprey .
Chas. Fisher . John Drew
James Lewis
. Geo. Clarke
Chas. Leclercq
Otis Skinner . Ada Rehan
Viva Van Ryker . . Phoebe Russell Mrs. Eutycia Laburnam,
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Truffles E. P. Wilks
Crusty E. Ireton
Tom John Wood
Cherry . . 1 . . - Evelina Cooke
558 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D888
It received its one hundredth performance Jan. 23, 1888. It was acted for the last time Jan. 30. "A Midsummer Night's Dream" was produced Jan. 31 in lavish style and with this cast:
Theseus Joseph Holland
Egeus Charles Fisher
Lysander Otis Skinner
Demetrius John Drew
Quince Charles Leclercq
Snug Frederick Bond
Bottom James Lewis
Flute William Gilbert
Philostrate . . . Eugene Ormonde
Puck or Robin Goodfellow,
Bijou Fernandez
Snout John Wood
Starveling .... Edward Wilks
Hippolita Phoebe Russell
Helena Ada Rehan
Hermia Virginia Dreher
Oberon Alice Hood
Titania Effie Shannon
A Fairy .... Lizzie St. Quintan
Peas Blossom, Cobweb, Moth, Mustard Seed, fairies at the command of Titania, by Augustus Sohlke, Mamie and Kate O'Brien, and Master Yorer. Other fairies, attendant upon Oberon and Titania, by Misses Sears, Conron, Cooke, Flaire, Ferrell, Gaunt, Wharton, Helm, Bowers, and Page. Attendants upon Hippolita, by Misses Lee, Berner, Ratcliffe, Callard, CoUerd, Livingston, etc. Of the Court of Theseus : Messrs. Revell, Finney, Reglid, Keller, Murphy, Ireton, etc.
This was one of the new theatres open in New York the night of the terrible blizzard (March 12, 1888). The season closed April 7, and two hundred and twenty-nine performances were given in twenty-seven weeks. " Railroad of Love " had one hundred and eight representations ; " A Midsummer Night's Dream " held the stage to enormous business for seventy-nine, and "Dandy Dick" was played thirty-two times.
The theatre reopened April 16, with Rosina Yokes and her London comedy company. The programme was "A Pantomime Rehearsal," "A Game of Cards" (adapted from "Une Partie de Piquet "), and Mrs. C. A. Doremus' adaptation from the French, "The Circus Rider." The latter was originally acted by amateurs at the Lyceum Theatre. Those who gave Miss Yokes support here were Felix Morris, Morton Selten, Ferd. Gottschalk, Courtenay Thorpe, J. Rolfe, Mercedes Leigh, and Isabel Irving. The third and last week of the triple bill began April 30. For the week commencing May 7 the programme was " My Milliner's Bill" and "A Double Lesson." This company closed May 26.
Mr. Daly commenced his tenth regular season Oct. 9, 1888, with " The Lottery of Love, " an eccentric comedy adapted from "Les Surprises du Divorce," with this cast:
Adolphus Doubledot . . John Drew Benjamin Buttercorn . . James Lewis Captain Sam Merrimac . Geo. Clarke Tom Dangerous . . . Frederick Bond Mrs. Zenobia Sherramy,
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
David E. P. Wilks
Rye John Wood
Grass Mr. Murphy
Diana Sara Chalmers
Ann Eliza .... Kitty Cheatham "Jo" Ada Rehan
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Previous to the comedy was acted, for the first time on any stage, a classical study in one act, by Justin Huntley McCarthy (written expressly for this theatre), in imitation of a piece by Theo. de Banville, and entitled " The Wife of Socrates. " It had this cast :
Fhillina EfBe Shannon
Lysilla Jean Gordon
Xantippe Ada Rehan
Socrates .... Chas. Wheatleigh Charmides .... Jos. Holland
Agathon H. Revell
Strepsiades . . . Eugene Ormonde
This was the first appearance here of Charles Wheatleigh.
A series of comedy revivals began Tuesday evening, Dec. 4, and continued every Tuesday evening thereafter, with the exceptions of Christmas and New Year's days, which fell on Tuesday, until Feb. 19, 1889. The single seats for the ten subscription nights were: orchestra chairs, $2$; balcony chairs, ;^2o; dress circle chairs, $1$; second balcony chairs, ;^io; stage boxes, ;^20o, ^150, and Parisian, ;?I20 and ^100.
The run of " The Lottery of Love " was interrupted the night of Dec. 4, for a single representation of " Seven Twenty-eight, " the first in the series of subscription performances. It had this cast :
Dora Hollyhock . . Sara Chalmers The dog in the picture . " Phisto "
Flos Ada Rehan
Jessie Kitty Cheatham
Courtney Corliss . . . John Drew Launcelot Bargiss . . . James Lewis Prof. Gasleigh . . Charles Leclercq Mrs. Hypatia Bargiss
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
The second subscription night was Dec. 1 1, when " She Would and She Would Not " was presented.
The third subscription night was Dec. 18, when "Needles and Pins " was acted for the first and only time in seven years. The cast was :
Christopher Vandusen, Charles Fisher Mrs. Vandusen . . . Rose Eytinge Dosie HefEron . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Nicholas Geagle . . . James Lewis Kit Vandusen . • . Fred'k Bond
Tom Versus John Drew
Selena Vandusen .... Ada Rehan Mary Forest .... Jean Gordon Caroline Isabel Irving
"A Tragedy Rehearsed" was played Dec. 26 in addition to "The Lottery of Love." It was based on Sheridan's "The Critic." Ada Rehan appeared as Tilburina, John Drew as Mr. Puff, and James Lewis as Don Ferolo Whiskerandos. Kitty Cheatham, Effie Shannon, Isabel Irving, Joseph Holland, George Clarke, Frederick Bond, E. P. Wilks, and John Moore were also in the cast.
The one hundredth performance of "The Lottery of Love" occurred Dec. 31.
"The Lottery of Love" and "A Tragedy Rehearsed" were
560 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1889
acted for the last time Jan. 7, 1889, having then run since Oct. 9. Tuesday evening, Jan. 8, Geo. Farquhar's old comedy, "The Inconstant, or Wine Works Wonders " was acted for the first time in New York in twelve years. It now had this cast :
Old Mirabel . . . Charles Fisher Young Mirabel . . . John Drew
Dugard Joseph Holland
Captain Duretette . . George Clarke
Lamorce Jean Gordon
The Maid to Oriana and Bisarre Louise Smith
Four Bravoes .
I'
Two Gentlemen
. Ormonde, Wdod,
Revell, and Murphy
. . . Bosworth
and Murphy
Petit William Gilbert
Oriana Ada Rehan
Bisarre Kitty Chetham
At the end of the first act of " The Inconstant " the new act curtain by G. Gariboldi was exhibited.
For the fifth subscription night, Jan. 15, "Dollars and Sense" was revived, for the first time in five years. The cast :
Mr. Pierce Tremont, Charles Fisher Hope Hemmarsly . . Sara Chalmers Mrs. Saphira Lamb, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Eliphalet Lamb .... Jas. Lewis Col. Jefferson .... Quincy Briggs
Effendi Chas. Leclercq
Jack Hemmarsly . . Fred Bond
Harry Lattimer Griggles . . Roberts . . . Phronie . . Lizzie Tremont Sybilla Briggs
. . John Drew Chas. Wheatleigh . Edward WUks . . Ada Rehan . . Alice Hood Jean Gordon
For the sixth Tuesday night subscription performance, Jan. 22, "Nancy & Co.," was revived, with Ada Rehan, John Drew, Otis Skinner, James Lewis, William Gilbert, and Mrs. G. H. Gilbert in their original rdles. Frederick Bond, Effie Shannon, Alice Hood, and Lizzie St. Quentin were also in the cast.
For the seventh subscription night, Jan. 29, "The Country Girl " and " A Woman's Wit " were played. " The Inconstant " was acted for the last time Feb. 4.
" An International Match " was seen Feb. $ for the eighth sub- scription night, and for the first time. It was an adaptation by Mr. Daly from the German of Franz Von Schoenthan. The cast was:
Duke of Portsmouth . Charles Fisher Clive, Lord Ravenstoke . John Drew Sir John Smith-Chumley
Charles Wheatleigh Quincey Caramel . . James Lewis Tom Middleview . . Eugene Ormonde
Mrs. Millicent Merriday
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Mr. Selvidge .... Fred'k Bond
Griffiths Mr. Bosworth
Jenny Isabel Irving
Doris Ada Rehan
A benefit matinee for the Actors' Fund was given Feb. 14. The entire house, save the gallery, was sold at ;^2. 50 a seat. The following was the programme :
Madison Square Theatre company, in second act of " Engaged," Cheviot Hill, E. M. Holland ; Belvawney, Maurice Barrymore ; Mr. Symperson, C. P. Flock-
I889~|
DALY'S THEATRE
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ton; Angus Macalister, L. F. Massen ; Belinda Treherne, Agnes Booth ; Minnie, Maud Harrison ; Mrs. Macfarlane, Mrs. E. J. Phillips ; Maggie, Annie Russell, Parker, Kate Maloney.
Mrs. Langtry and her company in the second act of " Pygmalion and Galatea." Pygmalion, Louis Calvert ; Leucippe, Sydney Herbert ; Chrysos, Frederick Everill; Mimos, Wm. Spencer; Cynisca, Hattie Russell; Daphne, Rose Roberts ; Myrine, Katherine Florence ; Galatea, Mrs. Langtry.
Mrs. Potter, Kyrle Bellew, and Mrs. Potter's company in the drama from the French of Delpit, entitled "Mile, de Bressier." Jacques Rosney, Kyrle Bellew; M. Henri de Guessiant, B. F. Horning; Georget, Chas. W. Butler; Mme. Rosney, Helen Bancroft ; Nelly, Lizzie Hudson ; Auralie, Alice Butler ; Mrs. Potter as Mile, de Bressier.
" A Tragedy Rehearsed," by Daly's company — Mr. Puff, John Drew ; Mr. Dangle, Joseph Holland; Mr. Sneer, Hamilton Revell; Stage Manager, John Moore. Characters in the tragedy : Earl of Leicester, George Clarke ; Burleigh, Murphy ; Walter Raleigh, Frederick Bond ; Christopher Hatton, Edward Wilks ; Gov. of Tilbury Fort, Charles Leclercq ; Master of the Horses, John Wood ; a Benefactor, Eugene Ormonde; Two Sentinels, Bosworth, Smith; First Niece, Effie Shannon; Second Niece, Isabel Irving; Confidante, Kitty Cheatham; Don Ferolo Whiskerandoa, James Lewis ; Tilburina, Ada Rehan.
On Feb. 19 "The Squire" was revived for the tenth and last subscription performance. Ada Rehan, James Lewis, Charles Fisher, and John Drew had the r61es assumed by them in the first American production of the play at this theatre — Oct. 10, 1882. Jean Gordon, Wm. Gilbert, Frederick Bond, Joseph Hol- land, and Kitty Cheatham were the new faces seen.
" An International Match " was acted for the last time March 6, and on March 7 "The Taming of the Shrew" was revived, and continued until March 28, when "Samson and Delilah," an adapta- tion by Mr. Daly from the French of A. Bisson, was acted for the first time. The cast was :
Goliah Puttybank . . James Lewis
Judge Suttle Geo. Clarke
Junius OUyphant . . Frederick Bond De Lancey de Loosey, Charles Leclercq Paul Raslem . . . Joseph Holland Audrey OUyphant . . . Ada Rehan Mrs. Raxalana Puttybank
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Angelina Jelateen . Kitty Cheatham Miss Lightbody . . . Louise Smith
Susan Evelina Cook
Jack Prynse John Drew
Maj Vortex . . . . C. Wheatleigh
Dr. Soothem W. Gilbert
Matthew Pulpey .... E. Wilks
John L. Stoddard commenced a series of Lenten matinees March 21. The first course was given on Mondays and Thurs- days, March 25, April i, 4, 8, and 11. The second on Tuesdays and Fridays, March 26, April 2, 5, 9, and 12. For the last week of Mr. Daly's season, " Samson and Delilah " was played April 22-24; "A Night Off," April 25; "The Squire" April 26, and matinee, April 27; and "Seven Twenty-eight," evening, April 27, when the tenth season terminated. It had lasted thirty weeks, and during that time seventeen different plays were presented. Counting the extra matinles for charity given, the season com-
VOL. II. — 36
562 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dssg
prised two hundred and forty performances. The number of performances given each play was : " The Lottery of Love, " one hundred and five; "The Inconstant," thirty-nine; "An In- ternational Match," thirty-four; "The Taming of the Shrew," twenty -four; "Samson and Delilah," thirty -two; "The Wife of Socrates," fifty-eight; "A Tragedy Rehearsed" and "Popping the Question," seventeen each; "Seven Twenty-eight" and "The Squire," three each; "A Night Off," and "Dollars and Sense," two each; and "Nancy & Co.," "Needles and Pins," "The Country Girl," "She Would and She Wouldn't," and " A Woman's Won't," once each.
A summer season opened April 29, with Rosina Yokes and her company in "A Game of Cards," "My Milliner's Bill," and "The Rough Diamond," Rosina Yokes in the chief r61e in each. In her company were Helena Dacre, Helen Standish, Felix Morris, Morton Selten, Courtenay Thorpe, F. Gottschalk, and J. Rolfe. This bill was continued up to May 9, when were produced " My Uncle's Will," "My Lord in Livery," and "The Old Musician," the latter an adaptation by Felix Morris from a French source. In none of these had Rosina Yokes previously appeared in this city.
The audience was dismissed on the evening of June 8, shortly after nine o'clock, owing to a sudden indisposition on the part of Rosina Yokes, and the season ended.
Sol Smith Russell began an engagement Aug. 26, 1889, with "A Poor Relation," produced for the first time in New York. The cast was:
Noah Vale . . . Roderick Faye . . Jasper Stenett . . . Sociable Smith . . Marmaduke O'Haley Rachael Worriner .
Sol Smith Russell Alfred Hudson . Charles Kent Louis Carpenter . R. F. Sullivan . Lillian Owen
Patch .... Little Hazel Chappel
Dolly Faye Grace Filkins
Eunice Faye .... Maud Hosford
Scollops Merri Osborne
Rip Master Richards
This piece was originally produced Oct. 5, 1888, at the Metro- politan Opera House, Columbus, Ohio.
Mr. Daly opened his regular season Oct. 2 with " The Golden Widow," adapted by him from Sardou's "Marquise." The cast was:
Marquis de Campanilla, James Lewis Tom de Camp .... John Drew Papa Bigelow . . Charles Wheatleigh Randolph Windrop . Frederick Bond Dick Chedney . . Sydney Herbert Lucky Silex . . . William Hamilton Baliron Charles Leclercq
Tryphena Magillicundy . Ada Rehan Mrs. Colorado Peck . Nina Freeth Miss Aurelia Brown
Mrs. Annie Yeamans
Lou Bigelow Kate Best
Kitty Kitty Cheatham
Mme. Coralie Coraline . Mrs. Gilbert
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563
Mrs. Yeamans, Nina Freeth, Kate Best, Sydney Herbert, and William Hamilton were seen for the first time on Mr. Daly's stage. The play was a failure, and was acted for the last time Oct. 21.
"The Great Unknown" followed Oct. 22. It was adapted by Daly from " Die Beruhmte Frau " (by Franz von Schonthan and Gustav Kadelburg), and was acted for the first time on any stage. It had this cast :
Jeremiah Jarraway . . James Lewis
Cousin Ned John Drew
The O'Donnell Don, Wilton Lackaye Tom Prowde . . . Sydney Herbert
Patrick T. J. Cronin
Aunt Penelope . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Arabella Jarraway, Mrs. Annie Yeamans The Widow Munkittrick, Sara Chalmers
Miss Twitters Nita Sykes
Mile. Agathe . . . Adelaide Prince
Pansy Isabel Irving
Etna Ada Rehan
The original piece was acted at Amberg's Theatre a few nights before. Wilton Lackaye withdrew from the cast, after playing a few nights. Frederick Bond afterwards played the O'Donnell Don.
The first of the annual subscription performances of this season occurred Dec. 3, when " The Passing Regiment " was revived. The changes in the cast from the original production included Chas. Wheatleigh for W. J. Le Moyne, Mr. Ormonde for Digby Bell, Geo. Clarke for George Parkes, Frederick Bond for H. M. Pitt, and Adelaide Prince for May Fielding.
" A Night Off " was revived Dec. 10, with this cast :
Justinian Babbitt . . James Lewis Harry Damask . . Frederick Bond Lord Mulberry . Charles Wheatleigh Marcus Brutus Snap, Charles Leclercq Mrs. Zantippe Babbitt
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Angelina Damask . . Sara Chalmers
Susan Isabel Irving
Mulberry John Drew
Prowl E. P. Wilks
Nisbe Ada Rehan
Maria Miss Wharton
"The Great Unknown" was played for the sixty-fifth and last time Dec. 16. For the third subscription night, Dec. 17, "As You Like It," was presented for the first time by this company. The cast was :
The Duke .... Chas. Wheatleigh Frederick .... Geo. Middleton
Amiens Heinrich Koeke
Jaques Geo. Clarke
A Lord Wm. Hamilton
Le Beau .... Sydney Herbert
Charles Hobart Bosworth
Oliver Eugene Ormonde
A Person Representing
. Hymen .... Kitty Cheatham
Jaques James Wallis
Orlando John Drew
Adam Charles Fisher
Dennis Richard Knowles
Touchstone .... James Lewis
Corin Charles Leclercq
Rosalind Ada Rehan
Celia Henrietta Crosman
Phoebe Jean Gordon
Audrey • Isabel Irving
564 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D890
This was Ada Rehan's first appearance as Rosalind, and the first appearance at this theatre of Henrietta Crosman. Geo. Clarke, although ill for several days, insisted on playing, and lay on a mattress in his dressing-room when off the stage.
"The Railroad of Love" was revived Jan. 7, 1890, for one night only. For the subscription night of Jan. 14 "Seven Twenty- eight " was repeated. In consequence of the death of her father Ada Rehan was unable to play the night of Jan. 18. The news of Mr. Crehan's (correct name) death was received at the theatre during the matinee performance, and Mr. Daly changed the bill for the evening, and substituted "A Night Off" for "As You Like It," Kitty Cheatham appearing as Nisbe, Miss Rehan's original r6Ie. " She Would and She Would Not " was revived Jan. 28. " As You Like It " was acted for the fiftieth time Feb. 3. Geo. Clarke, who had been ill, then returned to the cast as Jaques. "As You Like It" was acted Feb. 10, and repeated afternoons of Feb. 12 and 15. It was then withdrawn, with a record of sixty performances. For the usual Tuesday night sub- scription revival, Feb. 11, "The Country Girl" and "A Woman's Won't" were played.
The night of Feb. 12 saw the first performance on any stage of "A Priceless Paragon," adapted by Mr. Daly from Sardou's comedy, "Belle Maman." The cast was:
Victor Gerval John Drew
Daveneys .... Eugene Ormonde
Berard Sydney Herbert
Varoche Geo. T. Ulmer
Narcisse Bunnitrop . . James Lewis Dr. Poulot . . . Charles Wheatleigh Adhemar . . . Jerome Kingsbury Chevalier Rosamonde, Charles Leclercq
Mrae. Filoche . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Victorine Rosamonde, Sara Chalmers Dina Faudelle .... Ada Rehan
Renaud Frederick Bond
Jolly T. J. Cronin
Susette Isabel Irving
Phemie Kate Best
This was the first appearance at this theatre of Geo. Ulmer.
" As You Like It " was repeated matinde, Feb. 22.
" A Priceless Paragon " was seen in a somewhat condensed form on Feb. 25, and was preceded by a one-act play, "The Prayer" put into English by Maurice F. Egan, from the French of Francois Coppee. The cast: Mile. Rose, Ada Rehan; Zellie, Adelaide Prince; Blanche, Miss Conron; Jacques Leroux, George Clarke; the Old Priest, C. Wheatleigh; an Officer, Eugene Ormonde.
The Stoddard morning lectures commenced Feb. 27. Afternoon of Feb. 28, Max O'Rell lectured for the benefit of the Bethlehem Day Nursery.
The last performance of " A Priceless Paragon " and " The Prayer" occurred at the matinee, March 5, and "A Midsummer
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565
Night's Dream " was revived for the evening performance and continued until March 20.
Stoddard's lectures were given March 15, 17, 20, 24, 27. "A Midsummer Night's Dream " was repeated March 17, 20. On March 21, 22, and matinee, March 22, and nights March 24, 25, "The Taming of the Shrew" was played with nearly its former cast.
Sydney Grundy's comedy, "Haroun Alraschid and His Mother- in-law" ("An Arabian Night"), was produced March 26; also, on the same night, "Miss Hoyden's Husband," a one-act condensa- tion of Richard Brinsley Sheridan's old play, "A Trip to Scar- borough." This latter, in turn, is a modification of Sir John Vanburgh's "Relapse," which was intended by its author as a sequel to Colley Gibber's "Lovb's Last Shift." These are the casts of the two plays :
"MISS HOYDEN'S HUSBAND"
Lord Foppington . . Charles Leclercq Sir Tunbelly Clumsy
Charles Wheatleigh Colonel Townley . . Eugene Ormonde Mistress Coupler . . Adelaide Prince Miss Hoyden's Nurse . . May Sylvia
Young Fashion . . . Geo. Clarke
Lory Frederick Bond
Nicodemus . . . . H. Bosworth
Amanda Lillian Darley
Berinthia Maud Jeffries
Miss Hoyden Ada Rehan
"HAROUN ALRASCHID AND HIS MOTHER-IN-LAW"
Georgie Sara Chalmers
Ralph Onnerod . . . Geo. Clarke Barbara .... Lucille Neilson Dobson T. J. Cronin
Arthur Hummingtop . . John Drew Mrs. Gillibrand . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Joshua Gillibrand . Frederick Bond Daisy Maitland . . . Isabel Irving Rosa Colombier . . Kitty Cheatham
There was no performance Good Friday night, April 4. On April 7, 8, 9, 10, " Haroun Alraschid " and " Miss Hoyden's Hus- band " were played, and at matinee April 1 1 and night of April 12, "Seven Twenty-eight." The season closed April 12.
Rosina Yokes began a spring term April 14. Her first week's bill consisted of "Percy Pendragon " (from H. J. Byron's "Mar- ried in Haste"); F. W. Sidney's comedietta, "Wig and Gown;" and B. C. Stephenson's "A Double Lesson." The first two were new to this city. The casts were :
Percy Pendragon Augustus Vere .
Frank Warburton, Phil Buffington .
"PERCY PENDRAGON"
. . Felix Morris 1 Ethel Grainger Vere . Emily Bancker . . Grant Stewart | Landlord Robert Rivers
"WIG AND GOWN"
Courtenay Thorpe I Edith Golding . . Emily Bancker . . Charles J. Bell | Polly Meadowleigh . . Rosina Yokes
566 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1890
"A DOUBLE LESSON"
Sir John Moncrieffe
Ferdinand Gottschalk
Primmer Felix Morris
Harry Fielding . Courtenay Thorpe
Lady Moncrieffe . Perkins . . . . Miss St. Almond .
Eleanor Lane
Elsie Lombard
Rosina Vokes
"Awakening," "The Circus Rider," and "My Lord in Livery" formed the programme April 28. " Awakening " was " Tears, Idle Tears " in a new form and title, and was here acted by Rosina Vokes' company for the first time in New York.
It had been previously acted in this city at a benefit performance by Mr. and Mrs. Kendal. " A Game of Cards " and " My Milliner's Bill " were revived on May 12; also "A Corsican Legacy," for the first time.
A matinde performance took place May 22 for the benefit of the Post Graduate Hospital. The Vokes' company appeared in "The Old Musician," "The Rough Diamond," and "A Pantomime Re- hearsal." The season terminated May 24, and the theatre was closed.
Sol Smith Russell returned here Aug. 14, with Boucicault's new play, "The Tale of a Coat," originally produced at Phila- delphia. The cast here was :
Jemmy Watt . . Sol. Smith Russell Richard Doubleday . John E. Kellerd William Burbank . Alfred Hudson Mrs. Cora Welby . . . Linda Dietz Mrs. John Carter, Mrs. Mary E. Barker
Jerry Frank Lawton
Otto Klootz . . . Chas. A. Krone Mr. Gerrish .... Walter Hale
John Carter . . . . R. F. Sullivan
Reporter J. H. Wilson
Mr. Wilcox . . . Geo. S. Stevens
Dozey H. S. Clark
Bobbie Merri Osborne
Dick . . . Master Alfie Hudson EfBe Little Hazel Chappel
This play was a failure, and was withdrawn Sept. 15, and "A Poor Relation" revived. Sol Smith Russell's engagement termi- nated Sept. 27, and the theatre was closed until Oct. 7, when the regular season began with Jerome K. Jerome's comedy, "New Lamps for Old," acted for the first time in America. The cast was:
Algernon Postlethwaite, Burr Mcintosh Edwin Honiton .... John Drew
Buster James Lewis
Jorkins Frederick Bond
Octavia Anna Franosch
Mrs. Sackett .... Mrs. Gilbert Elvira Ada Rehan
Others in Mr. Daly's company, not in this cast, but who ap- peared soon afterwards, were Isabel Irving, Edith Crane, Kitty Cheatham, Adelaide Prince, May Sylvie, Florence Conron, Lulu Smith, Grace Freeman, Marie Shotwell, Helen Bryant (daughter of Dan Bryant), Alice Crawford, Belle Wharton, Lucille Neil- son, Claire Phair, Ruby and Esther Tyrrell, Charles Wheatleigh,
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S^7
Charles Leclercq, Sydney Herbert, Wm. C. Sampson, Sidney Bowkett, Hobart Bosworth, Wilfred Buckland, J. Macauley, Ralph Nisbet, and Albert Hope. "New Lamps for Old" was withdrawn after Oct. 27. "The Last Word," an adaptation by Mr. Daly from the German, was acted for the first time in Eng- lish, Oct. 28, and had this cast :
Prof. Richard Rutherell
Charles Wheatleigh Alexander Airey . . . James Lewis Boris Bouraneff . . Sydney Herbert Moses Mossop . . Frederick Bond Baron Stuwe . . . Sidney Bowkett
Baroness Vera von BouranefE
Ada Rehan Faith Rutherell . . . Isabel Irving Winny Rutherell . . Kitty Cheatham The Secretary . . . Geo. Clarke Harry Rutherell .... John Drew
A special charity matinee, Jan. 12, 1891, was for the Home of Deaf Mutes, when " The Last Word " was played.
"The Last Word " was acted for the one hundredth and last time Jan. ig, 1891. " The School for Scandal " was produced Jan. 20. It was stated to be " a novel arrangement of the comedy by Mr. Daly." The cast was:
Charles Surface .... John Drew Crabtree .... Charles Leclercq
Careless H. Bosworth
Moses James Lewis
Rowley John Moore
Trip Frederick Bond
Snake Sidney Bowkett
Maria Edith Crane
Sir Peter Teazle . Charles Wheatleigh Sir Oliver Surface . Henry Edwards Sir Benjamin Backbite, Sydney Herbert Sir Harry Bumper . James Macauley Mrs. Candour . . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Lady Sneerwell . . Adelaide Prince
Ladv Teazle Ada Rehan
Sir toby Ralph Nisbet
Joseph Surface . . . Geo. Clarke
An extra matinee was given Jan. 26, for the benefit of the Actors' Fund. Daly's company gave three acts of "The School for Scandal ; " Harry Kernell, Maggie Cline, Tony Pastor, and Professor Abt did their specialties. Frederick Bond, who was under Mr. Daly's management for seven years, severed his con- nection with this theatre Feb. 18.
John L. Stoddard began his annual series of illustrated lectures morning, Feb. 23. " The School for Scandal " was played March 2, for the fiftieth and last time. "The Prodigal Son," arranged from the French "L'Enfant Prodigue," a pantomime play, with music, was seen for the first time March 3, and had this cast :
Pierrot . . . The Footman . Mons. Pierrot . Mme. Pierrot .
. . Ada Rehan
Wilfred Buckland
Charles Leclercq
Mrs. Gilbert
Phrynette , Virginie The Baron .
Adelaide Prince
Isabel Irving
Sydney Herbert
It was withdrawn after its seventh representation, having proved a failure. " A Night Off " was revived March 9. The theatre was closed Good Friday night, March 27, and reopened March 28 with "Love's Labor's Lost," the cast of which was:
568 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1891
The King of Navarre . . John Drew Longaville .... Hobart Bosworth Don Adriano de Armado
Sydney Herbert Sir Nathaniel . . . Charles Leclercq Holofernes .... Harry Edwards The Princess of France Ada Rehan Jacquenetta . . . Kitty Cheatham Biron Geo. Clarke
Boyet .... Charles Wheatleigh Mercade . . . Wilfred Buckland
Dull William Sampson
Costard James Lewis
Rosaline Edith Crane
Maria Adelaide Prince
Moth Flossie Ethel
Katherine Isabel Irving
A special matinee was given Monday afternoon, March 30, in aid of the House of the Holy Family. "Love's Labor's Lost" was the programme. J. L. Stoddard commenced a series of lectures Tuesday afternoon. " The Railroad of Love " was given evening of April II, when the twelfth season closed. "Love's Labor's Lost " was played for the last time matinee April 11.
Rosina Yokes opened with her company April 13, in "A Game of Cards," "Wig and Gown," and "The Rough Diamond." In the supporting company were Charles J. Bell, Eleanor Lane, Emily Bancker, Ferd. Gottschalk, Courtenay Thorpe, Marion Kilby, and others. "The Rough Diamond" and "A Game of Cards "were done April 20; "A Game of Cards," "Wig and Gown," and "The Rough Diamond," April 21; "Frederic Lemaitre," "Barbara," and "A Tinted Venus," April 22. The cast of "Frederic Lemaitre " was :
Frederic Lemaitre . . Felix Morris I Madeline Fleury . Pierre Ferd. Gottschalk
. Emily Bancker
These plays continued to be the attraction for the weeks of April 27 and May 4. Week commencing May 11 "Percy Pendragon," "My Milliner's Bill," and "My Lord in Livery" made up the programme.
"The Light that Failed," a one-act play, adapted from Rudyard Kipling's romance, was seen May 13, with this cast:
Dick Courtenay Thorpe I Bessie Eleanor Lane
Torpenhow . . . Charles J. Bell | Maisie Emily Bancker
" My Milliner's Bill " and "My Lord in Livery" were acted the same night. Rosina Yokes closed her season May 23. For her last week she presented "The Old Musician," "The Circus Rider," and " A Pantomime Rehearsal. "
Mr. Daly having obtained a sixteen years' lease, with privilege of renewals, of the theatre, fifteen feet were added to the depth of the stage. The old shanty in the rear in which were the dress- ing-rooms was torn down and a six-story building erected, and many other alterations and improvements were made.
The company, which had played a summer season in England returned, and the season opened Nov. 25, with "The Taming of
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the Shrew," and a cast only slightly different from that of its previous production. This comedy was continued until Dec. 2. "The School for Scandal" was presented night of Dec. 2, and repeated Dec. 3, 4, matin6e and evening Dec. 5, 7, 8, and matinee Dec. 9.
"The Last Word" was revived Dec. 9, and continued until Dec. 22, when " As You Like It " was revived. Albert King first ap- peared here as Amiens :
A person representing Hymen
Marie Shotwell The Duke .... Eugene Jepson
Frederick Tyrone Power
Amiens Albert King
Jacques George Clarke
A Lord Thos. Bridgeland
Le Beau .... Sydney Herbert
Charles Hobart Bosworth
Oliver John Craig
Jaques Collin Kemper
Orlando John Drew
Adam .... Chas. Wheatleigh
Dennis Ralph Nisbet
Touchstone .... James Lewis
Corin Chas. Leclercq
Silvius .... Wilfred Buckland
William William Sampson
Celia Adelaide Prince
Phebe Lelia Wolstan
Audrey Isabel Irving
Rosalind Ada Reban
Thos. Bridgeland died in Newark, N. J. Feb. 10, 1902.
Matinee performances were given Christmas Day, Dec. 25, Saturday, Dec. 26, Wednesday, Dec. 29, and New Year's Day, Jan. I, 1892; "As You Like It," for the last time Jan. 11. "The Cabinet Minister," by A. W. Pinero, Jan. 12, for the first time in America. The cast was:
The Munkittrick . . . Wm. Sampson The Earl of Drumdurris . Geo. Lesoir Rt. Hon. Sir Julian Twombley
James Lewis Brooke Twombley . . Tyrone Power Mr. Joseph Lebanon
Valentine White Imogene . . Lady Macphail Angele . . .
Sydney Herbert . . John Drew . Isabel Irving . . May Sylvie Louise Sylvester
Dowager Countess of Drumdurris
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Lady Euphemia Vibart . Lelia Wolstan Countess of Drumdurris, Percy Haswell Miss Munkittrick . . Miss Sinnott Hon. Mrs. Gavlustre . Edith Crane Lady Twombley . . Adelaide Prince Macphail .... Hobart Bosworth
Mitford Ayres
Probyn Ralph Nisbet
Sir Edwin Arnold, poet and editor of the London Daily Tele- graph gave lectures and readings on the mornings of Jan. 12, 14, and 15.
"The Cabinet Minister" proved a failure. It was acted for the last time Jan. 18, and "Nancy & Co." revived Jan. 19. The cast was:
Mr. Ebenezer Griffing . James Lewis Captain Paul Renseller, Sydney Herbert Young Mr. Sikes Stockslow
Herbert Gresham Tippy Brasher . . William Gilbert Mrs. Huldah Dangery
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Kiefe O'Kiefe Julius . . . Oriana . . . Daisy Griffing Betsey . . . Nancy Brasher
. . John Drew William Sampson Edith Crane . Isabel Irving Anna Franosch . . Ada Rehan
570 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D892
This marked the reappearance at this house, after a long ab- sence, of William Gilbert.
"Nancy & Co." was withdrawn Feb. 9, for "Love in Tandem," an eccentric comedy in three acts, adapted by Aug. Daly from the French of "La Vie a Deux," by Henry Bocage and Ch. de Courcy :
Donald Littlejohn . . . Geo. Clarke Bob Parker . . . Herbert Gresham Richard T. Dymond . . John Drew
Nadege Percy Haswell
Tetty Kitty Cheatham
Aprilla Dymond .... Ada Rehan Mme. Lauretta . . Adelaide Prince Mme. Miralesy Rosareina, Edith Crane Countess AltichefE . . . May Sylvie " Papa " Skinnastone . James Lewis Barry William Gilbert
F. Hopkinson Smith and Thomas Nelson Page gave readings mornings of Feb. 9, 11, 13, 16, and 18. On Feb. 16, prior to the performance of "Love in Tandem," Mr. Daly introduced the Violana Sisters, who played a piano concerto and afterwards a violin solo with piano accompaniment. Daniel Dougherty gave a lecture on "The Stage," afternoon of Feb. 25, in aid of the Actors' Orphan Asylum Fund. "Love in Tandem," March 14, IS, 16. "The Forresters," by Lord Tennyson, was produced March 17 for the first time on any stage, and had this cast:
Richard Coeur de Lion . . Geo. Clarke
Prince John John Craig
Robin Hood John Drew
Sir Richard Lee . Charles Wheatleigh The Abbot . . . Thomas Bridgeland The Sheriff of Nottingham
Charles Leclercq A Justiciary . . . William Gilbert
A Mercenary . . . Wilfred Buckland Friar Tuck . . . Eugene Jepson Will Scarlet . . . Hobart Bosworth
Old Much Tyrone Power
Kate Kitty Cheatham
Old Woman of the Hut . May Sylvie
Titania Percy Haswell
Maid Marian Ada Rehan
The piece had been twice named by its author before he chose its present title. He first called it "Robin Hood," and after- wards " Maid Marian. " It was originally in five acts. Mr. Daly, with Lord Tennyson's consent and approval, reduced it to four acts and fitted it to the stage. Stoddard began his course of morning lectures March 28. Mr. Daly's season closed April 23 with "A Woman's Won't" and "As You Like It." Stoddard now gave his lectures at night.
Rosina Yokes and her company began a spring season May 2 in "The Rose," by Minnie Maddern-Fiske :
Count Chateau de Rohan, Felix Morris
Frederick Grant Stewart
Baptiste . . . Ferdinand Gottschalk
Marie Flora Clitherow
Tilda Florence Wood
' That Lawyer's Fee, " by H. Beerbohm Tree :
Edwin . Mr. Crook
Courtenay Thorpe 1 Angelina Rosina Vokes
Ferdinand Gottschalk
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"A Double Lesson," by B. C. Stephenson:
Lady Moncrieffe . . Flora Clitherow
Perkins Marion Kilby
Miss St. Almond . . Rosina Vokes
Sir John Moncrieffe
Ferdinand Gottschalk
Primmer Felix Morris
Harry Fielding . Courtenay Thorpe
This same bill was repeated until May 12, when "A Game of Cards," "The Circus Rider," and "A Pantomime Rehearsal " were given. The first American performance of "The Paper Chase" took place May 16:
Busby Felix Morris Dixon Walter Granville
Baskerville . Ferdinand Gottschalk Mrs. Baskerville . Flora Clitherow
Captain Kirby . Courtenay Thorpe Nelly Busby . . . Evangeline Irving
Wagstaffe . . . Jamesen Lee Finney Pedder Marion Kilby
Inspector Glimmer . . Grant Stewart Mrs. Pomfret . . . Rosina Vokes
Richard Mansfield began an engagement here Sept. 12 in "The Scarlet Letter," a play adapted from Hawthorne's famous novel, and continued until Oct. 2.
The regular season opened Oct. 6, 1892, with "Little Miss Million," adapted by Daly from Dr. Oskar Blumenthal's farce, "Das Zweite Gesicht," which had this cast:
Beverly Primrose . . James Lewis Rena Primrose .... Ada Rehan Ned Candid . . . Arthur Bourchier Salem Doublepenny, Herbert Gresham Venetia Primrose . Adelaide Prince
John Guthry Mr. Pfresh Dickers Tibbetts Tom Nervy
. . Geo. Clarke
William Gilbert William Sampson Wilfred Buckland
Sydney Herbert
This was the American debut of Arthur Bourchier. " Dollars and Sense" was revived Oct. 18. "A Test Case" was given Nov. 10, for the first time at this theatre and thus cast:
Jessekiah Pognip Sabina ... Rob Fleming . Ned Jessamine Juno Jessamine Natty Grinnell
James Lewis
Isabel Irving
Arthur Bourchier
Geo. Clarke
. . Ada Rehan
Herbert Gresham
Doctor Tinkey . . William Gilbert Mrs. Doctor Tinkey, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Prof. Fox- Merry well, Charles Leclercq Mrs. Prof. Merrywell . Anna Cowell Dr. Gash .... Wilfred Buckland Tony Kitty Cheatham
"The Hunchback" was produced for the first time at Daly's Theatre Nov. 29, and had this cast:
Master Walter . . . Geo. Clarke Sir Thomas ClifEord, Arthur Bourchier Lord Tinsel . . . Sydney Herbert
Modus Creston Clarke
Master Wilford . . James K. Hackett Master Heartwell, Thomas Bridgeland Gaylove .... Hobart Bosworth
This was the first appearance here of Creston Clarke. A matinee in aid of the Polish residents of this city was given
|
Simpson . . |
. . . Rankin Duvall |
|
Fathom . . |
. . William Gilbert |
|
Thomas . . |
. . William Sampson |
|
Stephen . . |
. . Wilfred Buckland |
|
Helen . . . |
. . . Isabel Irving |
|
Julia .... |
. . . . Ada Rehan |
572 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C'Sgs
Nov. 29. Mme. Modjeska appeared in an act of "Mary Stuart," assisted by Beaumont Smith, Rudolph de Cordova, Geo. Hazle- ton, Anna E. Proctor, and Mrs. Hannah Sargeant; Daly's com- pany played "A Woman's Won't" and "The Good For Nothing;" in the former James Lewis and Mrs. G. H. Gilbert appeared with Adelaide Prince, Sydney Herbert, Florence Conron, and Edward Wilks. Kitty Cheatham played Nan in "The Good For Nothing," and the other parts were taken by Eugene Jepson, Hobart Bos- worth, J. K. Hackett, and Mr. Carleton. " As You Like It " was presented Dec. 20.
"The Belle's Stratagem " was revived Jan. 3, 1893, and had this cast:
Villers .... Wilfred Buckland Mrs. Rackett . . . Adelaide Prince
Miss Ogle Lotta Lynne
Letitia Hardy Ada Rehan
Doricourt .... Arthur Bourchier
Old Hardy James Lewis
Flutter Herbert Gresham
Saville Sydney Herbert
Courtall John Craig
It was preceded by " The Knave, " a one-act study of mediaeval life, by Miss Clo Graves, seen for the first time on any stage. The cast was :
Mockworld Ada Rehan
The Burgomaster . . Eugene Jepson The Parish Clerk, Charles Wheatleigh Hans Wirth .... Creston Clarke
EUmer .... Thomas Bridgeland Veil Klein .... William Gilbert
Gredel Miss Sterling
Margrete Percy Haswell
"The School for Scandal" was given Jan. 17, when Arthur Bourchier played Charles Surface for the first time here.
On the afternoon of Jan. 30 a performance was given for the benefit of Mrs. E. P. Bishop, when " The Forresters " was revived, with Arthur Bourchier as Robin Hood. " Taming of the Shrew " was seen Feb. 7, with Geo. Clarke as Petruchio. T. Marion Craw- ford gave readings afternoon of Feb. 20, 21, 23, 24.
"Twelfth Night" was produced Feb. 21, and had this cast:
Orsino . . . Sebastian . . Antonio . . A Sea Captain Valentine . . Curio . . . Sir Toby Belch
Creston Clarke
Sydney Herbert
Charles Wheatleigh
Eugene Jepson
James K. Hackett
. Wilfred Buckland
James Lewis
Malvolio Geo. Clarke
Sir Andrew Aguecheek
Herbert Gresham A Priest . . . Thomas Bridgeland Countess Olivia . . Adelaide Prince
Maria Catherine Lewis
Viola Ada Rehan
The Clown . . . Lloyd Daubigny
The house was closed Good Friday night (March 31) and the season ended April 8. "Little Miss Million" had been acted twelve times; "Dollars and Sense," twenty-nine times; "A Test Case," twenty-two; "The Hunchback," twenty-five; "As You Like It," sixteen; "The Belle's Stratagem," and "The Knave," seven-
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teen ; " School for Scandal, " eight ; " The Forresters, " seventeen ; "Taming the Shrew," sixteen; and "Twelfth Night," fifty-seven times.
Rosina Yokes and her company began a spring season April lo in " A Lesson in Love, " by Charles S. Chelton, which had this cast:
Babblebrook .... Felix Morris Raymond Beaufield, M. C. D. Marius Captain Freeman . Walter Granville R. E. Porter . . Ernest A. Elton James . . . Ferdinand Gottschalk
Anastasia Winterberry, FfoUiott Paget Edith Leslie . . . Evangeline Irving
Susan Blanche Burton
Mrs. Sutherland . . Rosina Yokes
"Maid Marian, or Macfarren's Dream," was also played. This was an adaptation by MoUie Elliott Seawell of her story of that name. The cast was :
Macfarren . . . Kendall Weston
Wilkins Joseph Rolfe
Gladys Maitland . Evangeline Irving
Hobbs Ernest A. Elton
Van Tromp . Ferdinand Gottschalk Van Buskirk Jansen, Franclyn Reglid Major McPhilibeg . . . Felix Morris
Mrs. Von Tromp . . Ffolliott Paget Eleanor Von Tromp . Blanche Burton Mrs. Van Buskirk Jansen
Marie Hillyer Lady Marian de Winstanley
Rosina Yokes
On April 27 "The Rose," by Mrs. Fiske, was given, also "The Circus Rider," by Mrs. Charles Doremus, with this cast: Lord Weldon, Ernest A. Elton; Latimer, Ferdinand Gottschalk; Lord Merton, Walter Granville; Lady Lucille Grafton, Rosina Yokes; and the programme finished with "Maid Marian." On May 8 "Sunset," "Wig and Gown," and "A Pantomime Rehearsal" were played. This same bill was continued the week of May 15, and the Yokes' season closed May 20. Kellar, the magician, ap- peared here May 22 ; also a dramatic company in " The Loan of a Lover," cast thus: Gertrude, Catherine Lewis; Ernestine, Percy Haswell; Peter Spyk, William Gilbert; Capt. Amersfort, James K. Hackett; Old Snyzel, Eugene Jepson; Delve, Wilfred Buck- land. This was repeated the week of June 5, when Kitty Cheatham was Gertrude and O. S. Fawcett, Peter. "Nan the Good For Nothing" was seen June 12: Nan, Kitty Cheatham; Tom Dibbles, Eugene Jepson; Harry Collier, Owen S. Fawcett; Charley, James K. Hackett; Simpson, Wilfred Buckland; and Servant, Edward McLoughlin. The farce preceding Kellar was omitted after June 24, and the magician closed July 22.
The house reopened Aug. 2, 1893, with the first American appearance of Edwin Cleary's French company, and first perform- ance in this country by French players of the "Musical Play Without Words," "L'Enfant Prodigue," which had this cast:
574 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE LiBg^
Pierrot (Junior) . Madame Pierrot, Phrynette . . .
. Mile. Pilar Morin
Mme. Eugenie Bade
. Mile. Reine Roy
Pierrot (Senior) . . • . M. Courtes
Le Baron M. Dalleu
Servant M. Buckland
Sol Smith Russell returned here Oct. 9 with "Peaceful Valley," by E. E. Kidder, thus cast: Hosea Howe, Sol Smith Russell; Jack Farquhar, Orrin Johnson ; Leonard Rand, J. F. Brien ; Jona- than Ford, Alfred Hudson ; Charley Rand, Charles Jackson ; Wilson, Stewart Allen; Virgie Rand, Annie Radcliffe; Niobe Farquhar, Annie Blancke; Phyllis Howe, Marion Lester; Martha Howe, Kate Blancke.
"A Poor Relation" was revived Oct. 31; "April Weather" came Nov. 13, with Sol Smith Russell as Raphael. This comedy was first acted (at this theatre) under the title of "A Tale of a Coat," by Dion Boucicault. Sol Smith Russell closed Nov. 24. "The Algerian," McDonough and De Koven's comic opera, that had been playing at the Garden Theatre, this city, was trans- ferred to this theatre and commenced Nov. 26, 1893. Marie Tempest was the star. "The Fencing Master" was seen weeks of Dec. II and Dec. 18. James A. Heme's "Shore Acres" was produced in New York Dec. 25, for the first time. It was first acted under the title of "The Hawthornes" in Chicago, 1892, and not favorably received. Shortly after it was acted at the Boston Museum as "Shore Acres," and ran for more than one hundred nights. The cast in New York was :
Martin Berry .... Chas. G. Craig Joel Gates .... Geo. W. Wilson
Josiah Blake F. Garland
Sam Warren . . . David M. Murray Capt. Ben Hutchins . . Ph. Leach Dr. Leonard .... James Burrows Squire Andrews .... Alden Bass Ann Berry . . Grace Gayler Clarke
Helen Berry . Liddy Ann Nye Mrs. Andrews Mrs. Leonard Perley . . . Millie Berry . Mandy Gates . Nathan'l Berry
. Katherine Grey
Helen Gould
. . S. Davidson
Mrs. C. G. Craig
Lizzie Corner
Daisy Stevenson
. Miss Florence
James A. Heme
On the afternoon of March 5, 1894, there was a benefit for the unemployed actors in the city, when "The Bride of Roses" and " Shore Acres " were acted. The season closed May 26 and the theatre reopened Aug. 27, with "A Night Off, " with this cast:
Justinian Babbitt . . James Lewis Harry Damask . . . Francis Carlyle Jack Mulberry . . Herbert Gresham Lord Mulberry . . Charles Leclercq
Prowl Charles Lesoir
Mrs. Zantippe Babbitt . Mrs. Gilbert
Nisbe Percy Haswell
Angelica Damask . . Laura Hansen
Susan Catherine Lewis
Maria Sophia Hoffman
Marcus Brutus Snap, Henry E. Dixey
This was Henry Dixey's first appearance with Daly's company. This play was repeated week of Sept. 3. " Seven Twenty-eight " was seen Sept. 13, with Francis Carlyle as Courtney, Catherine Lewis as Jessie, and H. E. Dixey as Sig. Palmiro Tamburini. Mr.
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Daly now sent his company " on the road " and allowed " A Gaiety Girl " to take possession of his theatre. This musical comedy was seen for the first time in America Sept. i8, and had this cast : Charles Goldfield, Charles Ryley ; Major Barclay, Fred Kaye; Bobbie Rivers, W. Louis Bradfield; Harry Fitz Warren, Cecil Hope; Ronney Farquhar, Compton; Montague Brierly, Harry Monkhouse; Rose Brierly, Decima Moore; Lady Edytha Aldwyn, Marie Yorke; Gladys Stourton, Sophie Elliott; Hon. Daisy Orms- bury, Ethel Selwyn; Lady Grey, Mrs. Edmund Phelps; Alma Somerset, Blanche Massey; Ethel Hawthorne, Cissy Fitzgerald; Lady Virginia Forest, Maud Hobson; Mina, Juliette Nesville; Cissy, Florence Lloyd ; Haidee, Grace Palotta.
The first season of Mr. Daly's management in London with his own company began June 27, 1893, and ended July 18, 1894. The second season began on Sept. 10, 1894, with a reconstructed ver- sion of " A Gaiety Girl. "
"A Gaiety Girl," which had played at Daly's theatre in this city since Sept. 18, closed Nov. 24, and Mr. Daly's company re- turned after eighteen months' absence and reappeared Nov. 26 in "Twelfth Night," with this cast:
Viola Ada Rehan Valentine .... Gerald Maxwell
Countess Olivia ... Sybil Carlisle Curio William Stuart
Maria Percy Haswell Sir Toby Belch . . . James Lewis
Orsino Francis Carlyle Sir Andrew Aguecheek
Sebastian .... Sydney Herbert Herbert Gresham
Antonio .... Charles W^heatleigh Fabian Alfred Hickman
A Sea Captain . . Hobart Bosworth Malvolio .... Henry E. Dixey
"Twelfth Night" was reduced to four acts, and this was H. E. Dixey's first appearance in a Shakesperian r61e, also the first ap- pearance in eighteen months of Ada Rehan. " Love on Crutches " was revived Dec. 15, with this cast:
Annis Austin Ada Rehan Sydney Austin . . Frank Worthing
Eudoxia Quattles Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Dr. Quattles .... James Lewis
Margery Gwynn . . . Sybil Carlisle Guy Roverly . . . Sydney Herbert
Berta Ida Molesworth Bitteredge John Craig
This was the American dfebut of Frank Worthing. "Taming of the Shrew " was revived with a cast almost identical with that of its previous production, Dec. 27. It was acted afternoon of Jan. 7, 1S95, for the benefit of St. Agatha's Home for Destitute Children. "The Heart of Ruby," by Judith Gautier, was first seen here Jan. 15, when it had this cast:
The Voice of the poet . . Ada Rehan Prince of Maeda . . . George Clarke Lord Yamato . . . Sydney Herbert
Simabara John Craig
Ivahsita Alfred Hickman
Vayagaraa .... Gerald Maxwell Saboura William Stuart
Omaya . . . Chrysanthemum Attendant . . Landlady . . A Single Woman Tika ....
. Maxine Elliott . Percy Haswell Eugenia Upham . . May Sylvie Florence Conron Ida Molesworth
576 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Zms
"The Railroad of Love" was revived Jan. 21, with this cast:
Gen. Everett . . Charles Wheatleigh Valentine Osprey . . . Ada Rehan
Lieut. Howell Everett, Frank Worthing Viva Van Ryker . . . Sybil Carlisle
Scuttleby James Lewis Mrs. Eutycia Laburnam, Mrs. Gilbert
Adam Grinnidge . . . George Clarke Cherry Florence Conron
Judge Van Ryker . William F. Owen
" The Orient Express " was seen for the first time in this coun- try Jan. 31: Odeuseus Dioskobobulus, George Clarke; Lina, Percy Haswell; Hettie Featherstone, Ada Rehan; Katrina, Maxine Elliott.
" A Tragedy Rehearsed " was acted the same night, with this cast :
Mr. PufE . . . Mr. Dangle . . Mr. Sneer . . . The Stage Manager Don Whiskerandos
Henry E. Dixey Gerald Maxwell Campbell Gollan . George Clarke James Lewis
Governor of Tilbury, Charles Lecleroq Earl of Leicester . Hobart Bosworth Sir Walter Raleigh . Herbert Gresham Confidante . . . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Tilburina Ada Rehan
On Thursday afternoon, Feb. 7, Miss Oldcastle (Comtesse de Castelvecchio), a member of Daly's company, gave a special matinee, and appeared in costume recitation, with music. Miss Oldcastle was assisted by Henry E. Dixey, who told some funny stories. May Fielding, L. Daubigny, and Catterina Marco, who sang. " " Two Gentlemen of Verona " was first acted here Feb. 25, with this cast :
Valentine John Craig
Speed Herbert Gresham
Thurrio Sydney Herbert
Launce James Lewis
Julia Ada Rehan
Sylvia Maxine Elliott
Lucetta Sybil Carlisle
The Duke Geo. Clarke
Proteus Frank Worthing
This was the first performance in this city since Oct. 6, 1846, when Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Kean acted it at the Old Park Theatre. "Nancy & Co." was revived March 19, with Dixey as Tippy Brasher, Worthing as Kiefe O'Kiefe, Maxine Elliott as Oriana; " Two Gentlemen of Verona " was seen matinees March 20-23, and night of March 22. March 28 "A Bundle of Lies," based on the German farce by Carl Laufs and Wilhelm Jacoby, was seen: Smiley, Junior, George Lesoir; Dolly, Percy Haswell; Alma Brinton, Maxine Elliott. "Nancy & Co." and "A Tragedy Re- hearsed " were played April i ; " The Honeymoon " was seen April 4, and had this cast :
Duke Aranza . . Count Montalban Captain Rolando . Balthasar . Jaques . . Dr. Lampedo Lopez . . Campillo
Frank Worthing
Sydney Herbert
. . Geo. Clarke
William F. Owen
James Lewis
Charles Leclercq
William Sampson
Thomas Bridgeland
Pedro Mr. Shepherd
Olmedo Mr. Wharnock
Juliana Ada Rehan
Volante Maxine Elliott
Zamora Percy Haswell
The Hostess . . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert The Wife of Lopez . Jeanne Vorhees
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In this comedy Ada Rehan executed a dance. This theatre and the Lyceum were the only ones not open on Good Friday night (April 12). "A Midsummer Night's Dream " was revived April 13:
Theseus Egeus . Lysander Demetrius Philostrate Quince . Snug . Bottom . Flute .
. . Geo. Clarke
Tyrone Powers
. . Jolin Craig
Frank Wortliing
Hobart Bosworth
Charles Leclercq
Herbert Gresham
James Lewis
Sydney Herbert
Snout William Sampson
Starveling . . . Thomas Bridgeland
Hippolyta Laura Hansen
Hermia Maxine Elliott
Oberon Sybil Carlisle
Titania Percy Haswell
A Fairy Sophia Hoffman
Puck Ellen Burg
Helena Ada Rehan
The season closed April 20.
Stoddard commenced April 22 with his Illustrated Lectures for two weeks. " A Gaiety Girl " reappeared May 7, and closed June I. The theatre reopened Sept. 3, 1895, with "The Queen's Neck- lace," by M. Decourcelle, which had this cast:
Cardinal de Rohan Louis XVI . . . Count de Charny Cagliostro . . . Reteau de Villette
. . Kyrle Bellew William Redmund . James K. Hackett . . H. St. Maur . . E. Devonde
Beausire John Ward
M. de Breteuil . . . W. G. Warren Count de Provence . Edwin Holland Chevalier de Saint Landry
William Simpson M. de Crussol ... Mr. Auverne The Portuguese . . Campbell GoUan The Philosopher . . Guy Bates Post
Boehmer . . Bossauge . . Gamain . . . M. de Calonne Ducorneau . , Count d'Artois Dressmaker . Countess Andr^e
E. L. Mason Verner Clarges Eugene Jepson . . Mr. Hume Edmund Norris . . Mr. Lyon . . Mr. Wilson . Maud Hosford
Countess Diane de Polignac
Annie Stannard Marie Antoinette . Mrs. Brown Potter Princess Miss Heron
"Haensel and Gretel," a fairy opera by Englebert Humper- dinck, was given Oct. 8, under the direction of Augustus Harris, the London manager. It had this cast: Peter, Jacques Bars; Gertrude, Alice Gordon; Hansel, Marie Elber; Gretel, Jeanne Douste; The Witch, Louise Meisslinger; Sandman, Cecile Brani; Dewman, Edith Johnston.
Mile. Jane May, French pantomimist, made her American debut Nov. 18 in "Miss Pygmalion," by Michel Carre and Jean Herbert, with music by Francis Thome. N. D. Jones, Chas. Constantine, Charles Walton, and Alice Truesdell were in the cast. The house was closed night of Nov. 25 and the regular season began Nov. 26, with a revival of "The School for Scandal." "The Transit of Leo," from the German by Mr. Daly was given Dec. 10 for the first time on any stage. The cast was :
VOL. II. — 37
5/8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1896
Leo .... Timothy Placid Letitia Placid . Eric Aubrey . Dexter . . . Seba Barth
. . Ada Rehan James Lewis
. Mrs. Gilbert F. Worthing Geo. Clarke
. Maxine Elliott
Tom Raycer Recberg Dr. Douche Mrs. Douche Amanda Winifred
H. Gresham . Tyrone Power Thos. Bridgeland Elizabeth Garth . Fanny Morris . Helma Nelson
" Twelfth Night " was played again with the familiar cast, Dec. 20. For the benefit of the Seton Home for consumptives, there was a performance, the afternoon of Jan. 6, 1896, of "Twelfth Night." Archbishop Corrigan was in the audience. "The Two Escutcheons," an adaptation of Blumenthal and Kadelburg's "Zwei Wappen " (originally acted at Irving Place Theatre two months before), by Sidney Rosenfeld, was seen here Jan. 7, with this cast:
Franz Bridgeland
Count Darmstadt . Hobart Bosworth Countess Darmstadt . Fanny Morris Baroness von Wettingen
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Widow Stevenson . . Maxine Elliott
Mary Foster Ada Rehan
Baron von Wettingen . Edwin Stevens Thomas Foster . . . James Lewis
Rudolf Sydney Herbert
Von Vinck .... Frank Worthing
This was the first appearance at this theatre of Edwin Stevens. There was a performance the afternoon of Jan. 23 for the benefit of Katie Mayhew, widow of Harry Widmer, the late musical director of this theatre. The programme was: "The Two Escutcheons" and a miscellaneous entertainment. "The Two Escutcheons" was acted until Jan. 28, when was given, for the first time upon any stage, "The Countess Gucki," adapted by Daly from the German of Franz Von Schonthan: Counsellor von Mittersteig, James Lewis; Clementina, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert; Bruno von Neu- hoff, Chas. Richman; Countess, Ada Rehan. This was the first appearance here of Charles J. Richman. John L. Stoddard com- menced his Lenten matinees on Feb. 24. The regular season closed Feb. 29. The house was closed March 2 and reopened March 3 with " Romeo and Juliet, " cast thus : Juliet, Mrs. Brown Potter; Romeo, Kyrle Bellew; Mercutio, William Redmund; Capulet, Verner Clarges; Peter, J. F. Ward; Tybalt, Warren Conlan; Friar Lawrence, Frank Currier; Benvolio, Carleton Wells; Paris, George Bryant; Nurse, Mrs. W. G. Jones; Lady .Capulet, Maud Hosford; Lady Montague, Eugenie Upham. "The Queen's Necklace" was revived March 23. Rose Coghlan appeared here April 6 for two weeks in "Madame." The house closed April 18, and there was a special performance April 30 of "Countess of Gucki " for charity, by Mr. Daly's company. Professor Kellar, the magician, began a long engagement May 25.
The next season opened Sept. 9 with, for the first time in America, "The Geisha," a musical comedy in two acts; the
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book by Owen Hall and the music by Sidney Jones and Lionel Monckton, with lyrics by Harry Greenbank. The two numbers, "The Toy Monkey" and "Jack's the Boy" were by Lionel Monckton :
The Marquis Imari . . Edwin Stevens Lieutenant Katasna . . Neil McCay Police Sergeant Takemini
Robert Shepherd A Buyer . . . William Haieltine Wun-Hi .... William Sampson
0 Mimosa San Juliette . . . Nami . . . O Hana San . O kiku San . O Kinkoto San Komurasaki .
Dorothy Morton
. Helma Nelson
Sarina Alexe
Lila Convere
Mabel Thompson
Mabelle Gillman
. Maud Carter
Hon. Reginald St. Pancras, Eric Scott
Lieut. Reginald Fairfax
Van Rensselaer Wheeler Dick Cunningham, Herbert Gresham Arthur Cuddy . . . George Lesoir George Grinston . . Henry Gunson Tommy Stanley . . . Alice Winston Lady Constantine Wynne
Marie St. John Miss Marie Worthington
Pauline French
Miss Ethel Hurst Dorothy Sweet . Mabel Evant . . Molly Seamore .
. Gerda Wisner
Maym Kelso
Annette Spencer
. Violet Lloyd
James Lewis died in New York, Sept. lo, 1896. He was born in Troy, N. Y. in 1838. He first acted in New York at the Olympic Theatre in 1866; the next season he was at the Continental Theatre, Boston, and his next appearance in New York was at Lena Edwin's Theatre in i86g. He c'ommenced under Daly's management at the Fifth Avenue Theatre in Twenty-fourth Street, Sept. 6, 1869, as Hibbs, in "Dreams." He remained with Augustin Daly until his death. His remains were interred in Woodlawn cemetery, Brooklyn. Mark Smith replaced Edwin Stevens as the Marquis and Pauline French took Marie St. John's place as Lady Wynne in "The Geisha." The dramatic season opened Nov. 23, 1896, with Mr. Daly's company. Sydney Herbert, John Craig, Edward Varrey, William Sampson, Geo. Clarke, Charles Richman, Edwin Stevens, Herbert Gresham, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert, Maud Hoffman, Percy Haswell, Marie St. John, Carolyn Stevenson, Helma Nel- son, Mabelle Gillman, Gerda Wisner, Lila Convere, Hobart Bos- worth, Robert Shepherd, Henry Gunson, Geo. Lesoir, Eric Scott, Hans Roberts, Frederick Truesdell, William Hazeltine, George Wharnock, Tom Hadaway, Charles Bates, Maym Kelso, Sarina Alexe, Belle d'Arcy, Lena Loraine, Anne Caverly, Maud Carter, Claire St. Claire, Pauline French, Mabel Thompson, Alethe Craig, Mabel Strickland, Gertrude Bennett, Eugenie Taylor, and Mar- guerite Barre. " As You Like It " was the opening bill, and had this cast:
The Duke .... Edwin Stevens Frederick .... Sydney Herbert
Amiens Henry Gunson
Jaques George Clarke
Charles Hobart Bosworth
Oliver John Craig
Orlando Charles Richman
Adam Edwin Varrey
Sylvius Jefferson Winter
Touchstone . . . Herbert Gresham
Corin Tyrone Power
Celia Maud Hoffman
Audrey Percy Haswell
Phoebe Mabel Roebuck
Rosalind Ada Rehan
580 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D896
The programme for the week was : Nov. 24 and matinee Nov. 25, and nights of Nov. 26-28, "The Geisha;" "As You Like It," Thanksgiving matinee, Nov. 26, and matinee Nov. 28. An en- tirely new production of " The Geisha " was seen Nov. 23. There were some changes in the cast, the most important new-comers being Nancy Mcintosh, Virginia Earle, and Philips Tomes. " London Assurance " was played Nov. 30, Dec. 2-4, and matinee, Dec. 5, with this cast :
Lady Gay Spanker . . Grace Harkaway . . Sir Harcourt Courtley,
Dazzle
Max Harkaway . . ,
. Ada Rehan
Percy Haswell
Edwin Stevens
Geo. Clarke
Edwin Varrey
Dolly Spanker, . . Sydney Herbert
Meddle Herbert Gresham
Cool Frederick Truesdell
James .... William Hazeltine Solomon Isaacs . . Robert Shepherd
Mrs. Gilbert appeared in the third act and executed a dance to the intense delight of the audience. " The Geisha " was repeated Dec. I, matinee Dec. 2, and nights of Dec. 3-5. " London As- surance" was seen Dec. 7, 9, 11, and matinee Dec. 12; "The Geisha" Dec. 8, 10, 12; "The School for Scandal," Dec. 14, 16, 18 and matin6e, Dec. 19, with this cast:
Charles Surface Crabtree Moses . Rowley . Snake . Careless Trip . . Lady Sneerwell Mrs. Candour
. Charles Richman . Sydney Herbert William Sampson . . . Dean Pratt . Robert Shepherd . Hobart Bosworth Frederick Truesdell . . Marie St. John Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Maria . ■ . . . . Mabel Roebuck Sir Peter Teazle . . . Edwin Varrey Sir Benjamin Backbite
Herbert Gresham Sir Oliver Surface . William Griffiths Sir Harry Bumper (with original
song) Neil McCay
Joseph Surface . . . Geo. Clarke Lady Teazle Ada Rehan
This was the first appearance here of Wm. Griffiths and Dean Pratt. The one hundredth performance of " The Geisha " took place Dec. 17. On Dec. 21 a new and elaborate production of Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing" was seen, for which Henry E. Hoyt painted a new scenic outfit after models from the Od^on Theatre in Paris, and Frederick Ecke arranged the music, original and selected from various sources. It had this cast :
Don Pedro . Don John . Claudio . . Benedick . Leonato . . Antonio . . Borachio . Conrade Balthazar . A Messenger A Page . . Friar Francis Dogberry . Verges . .
. Herbert Gresham . Sydney Herbert . . . John Craig . Charles Richman . . George Clarke . . Tyrone Power William Hazeltine . Hobart Bosworth . . Neil McCay Frederick Truesdell . . Clara Emory . . Edwin Varrey . William Griffiths . William Sampson
Seacoal . . . . Oatcake . . . Sexton . . . .
Pages attending f Don Pedro f
Pages attending > Leonato |
Beatrice Hero . . Ursula Margaret Imogen .
. . Dean Pratt
Robert Shepherd
. George Lesoir
. Maud Carter
. Marion Stuart
. Rose Marston
Mabel Strickland
Alethe Craig, etc.
. . Ada Rehan
Nancy Mcintosh
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Marie St. John
Miss Hathaway
I897D
DALY'S THEATRE
S8l
INCIDENTAL
To the 1st act : A Saraband will be danced by the principal characters.
To the 2d act : The Serenade, " Sigh No More, Ladies," by Stevens, will be sung by Mr. Neil McCay : assisted on the lutes by Robert Shepherd, George Wharnock, Charles Bates, Miss Lena Loraine, Belle D'Arcy, Margeurete Barre, Lila Convere, Lulu Bosworth and Miss Mabelle Gillman.
A Dance of Gipsies — accompanying the Serenade : by Miss Helma Nelson, Isadora Duncan, Mabel Thompson, and Gertrude Bennett.
To the 4th act : A Choral Hymn (of the ninth century) by a number of Boy Voices.
To the 5th act : " Pardon, Goddess of the Night," arranged to be sung as a solo by Miss Nancy McIntosh, with harp accompaniment by Mad. Inez Carusi.
The comedy concluding with a Mediaeval Dance, in which the principal char- acters take part.
" Much Ado About Nothing " was repeated Dec. 23, 25, 26, 29, and matinee Dec. 30, night of Dec. 31, matinee Jan. i, 1897, matinee and night of Jan. 2, matinee Jan. 4, evenings Jan. 5, 7, 9, and matinee Jan. 9. "The Geisha," Dec. 24, matinee Dec. 25, evenings Dec. 28, 30, Jan. i, 4, matinee Jan. 6, and night of Jan. 8. These plays continued until Feb. 8, when " The Mag- istrate, " by A. W. Pinero, was revived :
Eneas Posket . BuUamy . . Col. Lukyn . . Horace Vale . Cis Farringdon Achilla Blond . Isadore . . . Worringdon .
Edwin Stevens
. Wm. Griffiths
Herbert Gresham
Sidney Herbert
Geo. Lesoir
. Wm. Sampson
Robert Shepherd
. . Dean Pratt
Inspector . . Serg. Luk . . Constable Harris Wyke . . . Agatha . . . Charlotte . . Beatrice Tomlinson Popham. . . .
Hobart Bosworth Wm. Hazeltine Geo. Wharnock . . Geo. Heath . . Ada Rehan Pauline French . Percy Haswell . Silva Converse
" The Geisha " continued every Tuesday, Thursday, and Satur- day matinee, and "The Magistrate," Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday night, and Wednesday matin6e, until and including Feb. 27.
Edwin Stevens withdrew from the company on Feb. 22, and Tyrone Power took the part of Posket, and Damon Lyons played th- Marquis in "The Geisha." T. Hadaway replaced Robert Shepherd as Isadore on the same date. "The Magistrate" con- tinued afternoon and night of March i, 20-26, and March 31; "The Geisha," March 2, matinee and nights of March 3, 22, 24, 27, 30, and matinge March 31; "Meg Merrilies," dramatized from "Guy Mannering," by Robert W. Chambers, had an elabo- rate production here March 12. The cast was: Persons in the Prologue: Meg Merrilies, Ada Rehan; Godfrey Bertram, Wil- liam Hazeltine; Young Harry, Little Eddie Devere; Dominie Sampson, Tyrone Power; Duncan Kennedy, Hobart Bosworth;
582 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D897
Sebastian, Frederick Truesdell ; Ephra, Paul McAllister; Gabriel, Dean Pratt; Dirk Hatteraick, George Clarke. Persons in the Play: Meg Merrilies, Ada Rehan; Sir Robert Haslewood, Wil- liam Griffiths; Col. Guy Mannering, John Craig; Henry Bertram, Neil McCay; Gilbert Glossin, Sydney Herbert; Dominie Samp- son, Tyrone Power ; Dirk Hatteraick, Geo. Clarke ; Dandie Dinmont, Herbert Gresham; Jock Tobus, George Lesoir; Flora, Virginia Earle ; Lucy Bertram, Percy Haswell ; Mrs. McCandlish, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert ; Julia Mannering, Nancy Mcintosh. " Meg Merrilies " was withdrawn after March 18, and "The Wonder" was presented, for the first time in many years, March 23, matindes March 23 and 24, nights March 25, 26, and matinees March 27-29. The comedy had this cast :
Donna Violante Felix . . . Col. Britten . Isabella . . Flora . . . Iris ....
. . Ada Rehan Chas. Richman
. George Clarke Marie St. John
. Virginia Earle
. Grace Rutter
Don Pedro Don Lopez Frederick . Lissardo Gibby . . Vasquez
. Edwin Varrey . Wm. Griffiths . . John Craig Herbert Gresham . . Dean Pratt Thos. Hadaway
" The Tempest " was done April 6, 8, 10, with this cast :
Alonzo Sydney Herbert
Sebastian John Craig
Ferdinand C. Richman
Prospero Geo. Clarke
Antonio .... Wm. Hazeltine
Gonzalo Edwin Varrey
Trinculo Wm. Griffiths
Stephano .... Herbert Gresham
Adrian Fred Truesdell
Francisco .... Hobart Bosworth
Caliban Tyrone Power
Miranda .... Nancy Mcintosh
Ceres Percy Haswell
Iris Grace Rutter
Juno Mabelle Gillmah
Ariel Virginia Earle
A special performance of "The Tempest," with Ada Rehan as Miranda and Percy Haswell as Ariel, was given the afternoon of April 19, for the benefit of the Association for Befriending chil- dren and young girls.
" The Geisha " had its one hundred and sixty-first and last per- formance April 21.
"The Circus Girl," by James T. Tanner and W. Fallings, with music by Ivan Caryll and Lionel Monckton, lyrics by Harry Greenbank and Adrian Ross, was presented April 23, and had this cast:
Biggs James Powers
Titus Wemyss . . Herbert Gresham
Dick Capel Cyril Scott
Drivelli Samuel Edwards
Reginald Gower .... Eric Scott
Albertani Douglas Flint
Commissaire of Police, Augustus Cook Vicomte Gaston . . . Neil McCay
Toothick Pacha " La Favorita " Lucille . . . Mrs. Drivelli . Diana Wemyss Marie . . . Dora Wemyss
Hobart Bosworth Nancy Mcintosh Blanche Astley . Marie Sanger . Effie Germon . Helma Nelson . Virginia Earle
x8g83
DALY'S THEATRE
583
The season closed June 26. The house reopened Aug. 16, 1897. with "The Circus Girl;" the cast being the same as that of the last season. Mabelle Gillman first appeared here Oct. 25 as Lucille in "The Circus Girl." "The Geisha" was revived on Nov. 8. Julius Stieger was seen for the first time in the part of Lieut. Fairfax, Cyril Scott as Cunningham, James Powers as Wun Hi, Virginia Earle as Molly Seamore, and Nancy Mcintosh as Mimosa San.
Mr. Daly's nineteenth season opened Tuesday night, Nov. 30, 1897, with a production of "The Taming of the Shrew," cast thus :
Lawrence Skinner
Wilfred Clarke
JefEerson Winter
Joseph Herbert
Marie St. John
Virginia Navarro
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
. . . Ada Rehan
A Lord Hobart Bosworth A Pedant .
Christopher Sly . . . Tyrone Power Grumio . .
The Hostess .... Nora O'Brien Biondello .
A Page ...... Henry Hyde Tranio . .
Huntsman Edwin Varrey Bianca . .
Baptista .... Paul McAllister A Widow .
Vincentio John Craig Curtis . .
Petruchio George Clarke Katharina .
Gremio William F. Owen
George Clarke and Herbert Gresham were stage managers this season. " The Taming of the Shrew " was acted matinees of Wednes- day and Saturday. On Tuesday, Dec. 7, " Number Nine, or The Lady of Ostend," a farcical comedy adapted from the German of Oscar Blumenthal and Gustave Kadelburg, by F, C. Burnand, was seen, with this cast :
Richard Whortles . . . Cyril Scott Edward Blake . . Charles Richman Joseph Carbury . . William F. Owen John Humbert . William Hazeltine Thompson Dean Pratt
Mrs. Matilda Carbury
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Dorothy Whortles . . Irene Perry Milly Grace . . . Lettice Fairfax Jane Lila Convere
This was the American debut of Lettice Fairfax. "Number Nine" was given Dec. 20, 22, 24, matinees Dec. 22, 25, "The Geisha," the week of Dec. 27, with Miss Mcintosh, Miss Earle, Mr. Powers, Mr. Gresham, and Mr. Stieger in the cast. " As You Like It" was played Jan. 3, 1898, with Ada Rehan as Rosalind. "The Merry Wives of Windsor," was revived Jan. 11, for the first time in twelve years, with this cast :
Sir John Falstaff (his first appear- ance in this character), George Clarke
Fenton Neil McCay
. Edwin Varrey
Wilfred Clarke
Charles Richman
Charles Craig
Herbert Gresham
Joseph Herbert
Master Shallow
Master Slender
Francis Ford .
George Page .
Sir Hugh Evans
Doctor Caius .
Host of the Garter Inn, Tyrone Power
It was given in four acts.
Ancient Pistol Corporal Nym Bardolph Robin . . Simple . . Rugby . . Mistress Page Anne Page . Mistress Quickly Mistress Ford .
. Sydney Herbert
William Hazeltine
Hobart Bosworth
. . Little Vergie
Tom Hadaway George Wharnock . Catherine Lewis
Lettice Fairfax
Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
. . Ada Rehan
584 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D898
"Twelfth Night" was acted the week of Jan. 25. "The Coun- try Girl" was presented Feb. 11, with Ada Rehan in her familiar part of Peggy Thrift. Previous to the comedy was given " Coming Events," a farce by Edmond Pailleron, with Ada Rehan as Nell Yearance, Charles Richman as Paul Yearance, Irene Perry as Henrietta, and William Hazeltine as the Doctor. "Jealousy" was "the curtain-raiser" Feb. 14, 16; on Feb. 17, 22, 23, pre- vious to "The Country Girl," a new Japanese comedy by Wolf- gang Kirch back, with music by Franz Curti, entitled "Lilli Tse," was given with this cast: Kiki Tsum, Frank Rushworth; Lilli Tse, Marguerite Lemon; Ming-Ming, Arthur Cunningham; Taima, Belle Harper; Miss Whirlbottle, Marie St. John.
Mr. Burton Holmes began a series of Lenten lectures Feb. 24, and continued until March 12. "Lilli Tse" and "The Country Girl" were given March 12, and continued until March 15. On that date "School for Scandal " was produced, with this cast:
Sir Peter Teazle . . Edwin Varrey Sir Oliver Surface, William F. Owen Sir Benjamin Backbite
Herbert Gresham Sir Harry Bumper Frank Rushworth Joseph Surface . . George Clarke Charles Surface . Charles Richman
Crabtree Sydney Herbert
Moses Wilfred Clarke
Rowley .... William Hazeltine
Snake Paul McAllister
Careless .... Hobart Bosworth Sir Peter's Servant . Tom Hadaway Lady Sneerwell . . Marie St. John Mrs. Candour . . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert
Maria Gerda Wisner
Lady Teazle's Maid . . Belle d'Arcy Lady Teazle .... Ada Rehan
The nineteenth season closed with "As You Like It," April 13. During the season "As You Like It " was acted ten times; "Tam- ing the Shrew," fifteen; "Merry Wives of Windsor," sixteen; "Twelfth Night," eight; "School for Scandal," seven; "The Country Girl," fifty; "Number Nine," twenty; "The Subtleties of Jealousy," twenty; "Lilli Tse," thirty; "The Geisha," fifty- five; and "The Circus Girl," ninety -seven times. Ada Rehan made her last appearance in "As You Like It," when Blanche Bates first appeared here as Celia. Moving pictures were seen here for the matinees commencing March 14. A spring season began April 15, with " La Poupde, " in two acts; book by Maurice Ordineaua and Arthur Sturgess, music by Edmond Audran :
Master Hillarius Mme. Hillarius Henry . . . AUesia . . . The Baron . . Loremois . .
. . James Powers
. Catherine Lewis
Ethel Hornick
Virginia Earle
Herbert Gresham
. Joseph Herbert
Brother Maxime . . . Frank Celli Launcelot . . . Frank Rushworth Brother Sebastian, Frederick Truesdell Brother Basil . . . William Gilbert Pierre Aitken .... Jean Taylor Marie Grace Rutter
It proved to be a failure, and was withdrawn May 2, and " The Circus Girl " revived, with Irene Perry as the heroine. The theatre closed June 4 to reopen Aug. 25, 1898, with the first
1899]
DALY'S THEATRE
585
American production of Seymour Hicks' "A Runaway Girl," with music by Ivan Caryll and Lionel Monckton, and lyrics by Aubrey Hopwood and Harry Greenbank. The cast was:
Guy Stanley Cyril Scott
Lord Coodle .... Wilfred Clarke Professor Tamarind, Herbert Gresham Signor PoUoni . . . Henry Stanley Hon. Bobby Barclay . . Eric Scott Sir William Hake . Paul McAllister
Mr. Creel Tom Hadaway
Leonello . . . Arthur Donaldson
Boccaccio Charles Bates
Doloroso Percy Smith
Flipper James T. Powers
Dorothy Stanley . . . Yvette Violette Lady Coodle . . . Catherine Lewis
Mrs. Creel Gerda Wisner
Fraulein Ehrenbreitstein, Belle Harper
Agatha Blanche Carlisle
. Marian Stuart
Beatrice Morgan
Mabel Thompson
. Violet Goodall
Edith Hutchins
. . Rosa Vera
. Hazel Pughley
Mabelle Gillman
Paula Edwardes
. Virginia Earle
Martha Dolly Dudley - Maude Brook . Grace Arlington Bertie Wales . Jessie Portman Eva Grosvenor Alice . . . Carmintia . . Winnifred Gray
On Nov. 19 "A Runaway Girl" was transferred to the Fifth Avenue Theatre, and "The Merchant of Venice" produced at Daly's on Nov. 19. The cast was:
Portia Ada Rehan
Shylock Sydney Herbert
Bassanio .... Chas. Richman
Antonio George Clarke
Gratiano .... Herbert Gresham Launcelot .... Wilfred Clarke Nerissa Mabel Roebuck
Tubal .... Gobbo .... Duke of Venice . Salarino . . . Solanio .... Prince of Arragon Lorenzo . . .
De Witt Jennings . Wm. F. Owen . Edwin Varrey . Joseph Greppo Wm. Hazeltine . Harold Lewis JefEerson Winter
Jan. 3, 1899, "Madame Sans GSne," by Victorien Sardou, was presented here, with this cast :
Napoleon Geo. Clarke
Lefevre Charles Richman
Fouchd Sydney Herbert
Comte de Neipperg, White Whittlesey
Savary William F. Owen
Despreaux .... Wilfred Clarke Saint-Marsan . . . Walter Howard
Roustan Harold Lewis
Mathurin Marie Murphy
Caroline May Cargill
Elsie Mabel Roebuck
Madame de Rovigo . . Hazel Pughley
Toinon Irene Perry
Catherine Ada Rehan
The matinee, Jan. 9, of "Madame Sans GSne" was for the benefit of St. Mary's church, Saugerties, N. Y.
"The School for Scandal " was revived Jan. 16, with Ada Rehan as Lady Teazle, Charles Richman as Charles Surface, George Clarke as Sir Peter Teazle; White Whittlesey, Joseph Surface; Miss Cargill, Lady Sneerwell ; and Mrs. Gilbert, Mrs. Candour.
" The Taming of the Shrew " was revived Jan. 23. On Feb. 9, for the first time in America, was seen "The Great Ruby," by Cecil Raleigh and Henry Hamilton. It had this cast:
586 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D899
Lady Garnett Ada Rehan
Countess Mirtza CharkofiE
Blanche Bates Mrs. Elsmere . . Mrs. G. H. Gilbert Brenda Elsmere . . . May Cargill Hon. Moya Denzil . Mabel Roebuck Hon. Kathleen Denzil, Beatrice Morgan Louisa Jupp . . . Paula Edwardes Flossie de Grosvenor . Louise Draper Millie Paget . . . Virginia Navarro Jane Slater .... Anne Caverly
Parsons Lucy Spinney
Mirtza's Maid . . . Katherine Clinton
Housemaid Laura Hill
Prince Kassim Wadia
Charles Richman Viscount Montyghal . Wilfred Clarke Sir John Garnett . . Herbert^ Gresham Lord George Hartopp, George Greppo Captain Clive Dalrymple
White Whittlesey
Cornish William F. Owen
Simon James Young
Brett Sydney Herbert
Jack Denis Fulton Russell
Hans George Howard
After the second night, Blanche Bates withdrew from the cast. Corona Riccardo played Lady Garnett when Ada Rehan left for Europe. Burton Holmes commenced his Lenten lectures the morning of Feb. 20. At the matinee performance of June 7, the company was notified of the death of Augustin Daly which occurred in Paris.
Mr. Daly's death removed the most distinguished figure among the dramatic managers of America, since the days of Lester Wal- lack. Mr. Daly was inspired by the highest ambition, and in all his relations with the stage he was animated by a serious sense of responsibility and was inspired by motives that were conscien- tious and noble. He died as he would have wished to die — at the summit of his career. With a fine literary taste and untiring industry Augustin Daly explored every source of the drama for new and good plays. To his training many of the best actors and actresses in the country owe their professional standing. No American manager in the thirty years of his ascendancy made more money than Mr. Daly. It is true that none expended more on the production of plays, and that pecuniary profit was never the uppermost idea in his mind. With one accord the dramatic pro- fession gave Mr. Daly first rank as a stage manager and producer of plays. All recognized his influence as a directing genius of dramatic art. He was born in Plymouth, N. C, July 20, 1838. He was held in high esteem by many of the dignitaries of the Roman Catholic church in this city, and on Dec. 13, 1894, he was the recipient of the Laetare Medal of the University of Notre Dame, the presentation being made by Archbishop Corrigan, in the presence of a large number of Roman Catholic dignitaries. Mr. Daly's body was brought to America by the steamship New York, arriving here June 17, and taken to St. Patrick's cathedral the following day for funeral obsequies, when there were over five thousand people present. There was an orchestra of seventy-five pieces, the great organ, the full choir, and the soloists of the church. The pall bearers were Joseph Jefferson, Willie Winter, Roger A. Pryor, George Clarke, John B. Schoeffel, Theo. Moss,
igoo]
DALY'S THEATRE
587
St. Clair McKelway, John D. Crimmins, Nelson Goodwin Green, Joseph J. O'Donohue, and Richard Dorney. He was buried in the family vault in Calvary cemetery.
After being closed since June 7, Daly's Theatre was reopened Sept. 13 with Daniel Frohman as manager, whose first attraction was "The King's Musketeer," adapted by Henry Hamilton, from Dumas' novel. It had this cast :
Raoul d'Artagnan . , E. H. Sothern Louis XIII. . . . Morton Selten Cardinal Richelieu, Arthur R. Lawrence George Villiers . . H. S. Northrup Comte de Rochefort. C. P. Flockton M. de Treville, Rowland Buckstone
Athos Roydon Erlynne
Porthos Norman Conniers
Aramis Geo. E. Bryant
De Chemerault . . . Daniel Jarrett D'Estress .... Edward Belmar
Jussac R. S. Carrington
Bicarat Frank Raymond
Bemajoux Frank Greppo
Le Cahusac .... Edward Lester De Vieuville R. Neill
John Felton .
Planchet . .
Mousqueton . . De la Fauconiere
GaMihrh . .
Le Masle . .
Vernet . . . . Dujart
. Norman Parr
Ernest Tarleton
Owen S. Fawcett
. May Johnson
Bessie Johnson
. John J. Collins
Richard J. Pitman
Charles W. Giblyn
Servant to M. de Treville
Charles Martin
Clarice Virginia Harned
Anne of Austria . . . Adele Block Gabrielle ..... Irene Rooke Mother Superior, Kate Pattison Selten
A Nun Olga M'Arthur
Toinette Edna Phillips
On Oct. 24, for the first time in New York, "The Song of the Sword," by Leo Ditrichstein, was presented. On Nov. 27 "The Manoeuvres of Jane," by Henry Arthur Jones, was produced, with this cast :
Jervis Punshon . Philibert . . . Mr. Nangle . . George Langton . Bostock . . . Sir Robert Bowater Mr. Pawsey . . Williamson . . Trimble. . . . Jane Nangle . . Cons.tantia Gage .
Charles Walcot . Ferd. Gottschalk . Charles Harbury Wm. F. Courtenay . Geo. C. Boniface . . John Findlay . . William Eville . . H. S. Taber
John L. Weber . Mary Mannering
Elizabeth Tyree
Mrs. Beechinor, Mrs. Charles Walcot Pamela Beechinor . . Jessie Busley Lady Bapchild, Mrs. Thomas Whiffen
Miss Dodd Mrs. Bostock . Miss Bostock . Mrs. Pawsey . Miss Bowater . Trendell . . Maid. . . .
. Ethel Hornick . . Ethel Sanborn , Beatrice Morgan Mrs. Hart Jackson
Gertrude Lewis . Alison Skipworth . . Julia Devereux
On Feb. 5, igoo, "The Ambassador," by "John Oliver Hobbes" (Mrs. Craigie), was seen for the first time, and had this cast : Lord St. Orbyn, John Mason ; Sir William Beauvedere, Edward Morgan ; Vivian Beauvedere, William F. Courtenay; Major Hugo Lascelles, Charles Walcot; Lord Lavensthorpe, H. S. Taber; Juliet Gains- borough, Mary Mannering; Alice Gainsborough, Grace EUiston; Lady Beauvedere, Hilda Spong; Lady Gwendoline Marleaze, Elizabeth Tyree; the Princess Vendramini, Rhoda Cameron; Lady Basler, Mrs. Charles Walcot; Mrs. Whitcomb, Mrs. Hart Jackson; Katie, Beatrice Morgan; Miss Yolande, Blanche Kel-
588 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE Dsoo
leher; Miss Mamie, Gertrude Lewis; Mrs. Spearing, Eva Vincent; Tomkins, Julia Devereaux; Rorter, William Eville; the Duchess, Minnie Bowen.
March 20 "The Interrupted Honeymoon," by F. Kinsey Peile, had its first presentation here. The cast was ; Sir Charles, John Mason; Daniel Gordon, Edward J. Morgan; Kenneth Benyon, Grant Stewart; Christopher Trevor, William F. Courtenay; Penny, John Findlay; Violet Babington, Mary Mannering; Hon. Mrs. Daniel Gordon, Hilda Spong; Rachel Gordon, Mrs. Charles Walcot; Lady Pamela, Ethel Hornick; Agatha Vincent, Alison Skipworth; Georgina Percival, Eva Vincent. On the afternoon of March 23 there was a performance for the benefit of the Mothers and Babies' Hospital, arranged by Mrs. Robert Osborn, and it was such a success that the sum of ;^2,ooo was added to the treasury of the admirable charity.
Among the attractions were the Japanese players in one scene from "The Geisha and the Knight." Mrs. Kendal in Clement Scott's play "The Cape Mail," assisted by Rudge Harding, Athol Forde, P. F. Ames, Nellie Campbell, Mary Kilpack, and Mrs. A. B. Tappins; also a farce by George Grossmith, called "Winning a Widow," with Mrs. Clement Scott as Mrs. FuUabloom. Mrs. Scott had frequently appeared in London as an amateur actress. "Nannette," a one-act play by Ferdinand Gottschalk, founded on an incident of the Paris commune, was one of the surprises of the afternoon, with Edwin Arden and Margaret Anglin in the cast. William Gillette followed, with "A Little Talk to Sun- day School children," the programme concluding with "A Panto- mime Rehearsal."
"Trelawney of the Wells," by A. W. Pinero, was presented here April 9, with nearly the same cast it received originally at the Lyceum Theatre. Good Friday the house was closed, Mr. Frohman thus following the custom established by Mr. Daly. "Wheels within Wheels" was played April 16, 17, 18, 19, and matinee April 21. The cast was:
Lord Eric John Mason
Sir Philip Grant Stewart
Egerton . . . Philip Cunningham
Eaves Edward Lester
Byam Charles Giblyn
Waiter . . . Mrs. Bulmer . Lady Curtoys . Miss Curtoys . James Blagden
. C. W. Butler
. Hilda Spong
. Grace EUiston
Eva Vincent
Robert Billiard
"The Manoeuvres of Jane" was repeated April 20, and "Tre- lawney of the Wells," for the benefit of the mother of the late Ernest Tarleton, was given on the afternoon of April 17. The receipts amounted to over ;^2,8oo. The programme was "Col. Carter of Carterville." In the cast: E. M. Holland, Beatrice Morgan, Joseph Wheelock, Jr., William Courtenay, Samuel Ed-
igoi]
DALY'S THEATRE
589
wards, and John Findlay. Henry E. Dixey appeared in a mono- logue, and Blanche Bates, Frank Worthing, and William Harcourt in "An Affair of Hearts," by W. H. Post. Then came Mary Mannering and Mr. Hackett in the balcony scene from " Romeo and Juliet ; " Beatrice Herford in a monologue ; David Bispham sang "Danny Deever;" and finally Virginia Harned and E. H. Sothern in Sir Charles Young's "Drifting Apart." A spring sea- son opened April 23 with " A Runaway Girl " : James T. Powers, Flipper the Jockey; Marie Celeste filled Virginia Earle's r61e of Winnifred; Paula Edwardes was Carmintia; and Rachel Booth, Alice. This play was originally acted at this theatre one hundred times, then transferred to the Fifth Avenue Theatre, where it had one hundred and sixteen performances. The theatre closed June 2 to reopen Sept. 6, with "The Rose of Persia," written by Basil Hood, the music composed by Sir Arthur Sullivan.
On Oct. 21, "San Toy," a Chinese-English musical comedy in two acts, book by Edward Morton, music by Sidney Jones, lyrics by Harry Greenbank and Adrian Ross, was presented, with this cast: Li, James T. Powers; Captain Bobby Preston, Melville Stewart; Sir Bingo Preston, Wilfred Clarke; Sing-Hi, J. L. Weber; Lieut. Harvey Tucker, Henry Girard ; Fo-Hop, Joseph Gooderowe ; Hu-Pi, Joseph Cauto; Wai-Ho, Robert M. O'Neil; Li-Hi, W. W. Scott; Li-Lo, George A. Roarke; The Emperor, Sarony Lambert; Yen- How, George K. Fortescue; Wun-Lung, Florence Newcombe; Ko-Fan, Isobel Hall; Trixie, Carolyn Gordon; Rose Tucker, Frances Gordon; Hu-You, Elsie Thorne; Mrs. Streeter, Eva Randolph; San Toy, Marie Celeste.
The dramatic season opened Nov. 26, with "The Man of Forty," by Walter Frith, and was thus cast :
Frederick Lee-Fanshawe, John Mason Roger Dunster, his
secretary I Edward Morgan
Lewis Dunster, Roger ' "
Dunster's brother, Capt. Dennis Garner
William Courtenay Algie Portman . Jameson Lee Finney
Raymond Barker . Martin .... Mrs. Egerton . . Elsie .... Mrs. Bella Portman Claire Despencer Lillian Vachel . . Mrs. Jessop . .
. Grant Stewart Fred Courtayne
Hilda Spong
. Cecilia Loftus
Elizabeth Tyree
Beatrice Morgan
Alison Skipworth
Eva Vincent
This was his
Fred Courtayne is a brother of Wm. Courtenay. first appearance under Mr. Frohman's management.
"Lady Huntworth's Experiment," by R. C. Carton, was seen for the first tfme T)ec. 21, and cast thus: Dorvaston, John Mason; Audley Pillenger, Grant Stewart; Henry Thoresby, William Courtenay; Crayll, Jameson Lee Finney; Gandy, Wil- liam F. Owen; Caroline, Hilda Spong; Lucy, Cecilia Loftus; Hannah Pillenger, Mrs. Chas. Walcot; Keziah, May Robson.
590 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1870
The season ended March 2, 1901, but another season began the next night with a revival of "San Toy," which continued until the night of June i, when the theatre closed for the summer.
HARLEM MUSIC HALL
IN the new depot building of the Third Avenue railroad, corner of One Hundred and Thirtieth Street and Third Avenue, westerly side. It was occupied as a place of amusement and called "Harlem Music Hall." It was opened Dec. 12, 1870, with a vocal and instrumental concert. The first dramatic per- formance given here was Dec. 26, when Rose and Harry Watkins came, with "Trodden Down."
The hall continued to be occupied with various entertainments, until it underwent a complete transformation. It was opened as "The Mount Morris Theatre," Sept. 25, 1882, by Hamilton & Chandler, with a dramatic company, in " The Lights 0' London. " Hamilton continued to manage the house until May, 1885, when he retired. Of late it had been occupied with cheap dramatic entertainments.
H
HARLEM HALL
ARLEM HALL, situated on One Hundred and Twenty-fifth Street and Fourth Avenue was opened May 4, 1871, with a concert.
THE ALHAMBRA
A PLACE for vaudeville entertainments on the second floor of II 64 Broadway, east side, above Twenty-seventh Street was known as " The Alhambra." It was opened in June, 1871, by Mr. Burns, but continued only a few weeks.
HARTZ'S BIJOU THEATRE
HARTZ'S bijou theatre was a small room at 748 Broad- way, east side, between Eighth Street and Astor Place. It was opened by Professor Hartz, the magician, Feb. 21, 1870. It closed after a few nights.
i87s: CHICKERING HALL 591
THE HAYMARKET
SITUATED at the southeast corner of Sixth Avenue and Thirtieth Street, was a so-called place of amusement which has had a checkered career. A German built it and called it "Carlberg's baths." It was then a fashionable " natatorium. "
•In 1872 William McMahon rented the place and called it "The Haymarket." He fitted it up so that it looked like a theatre with a dancing floor in place of the parquet chairs.
When the town was "wide open" during the later '70's and the early '80' s, the Haymarket flourished like a green bay tree. McMahon lost his excise license, and with touching sorrow wrote on the front door: "Soft Drinks Did It."
The hall was vacant for some time. Then Worth set up a dime museum in it, and mermaids of papier machd took the place of self-possessed young women with yellow hair. But the museum languished. It was shortly after known as "The American NicKLEODEON, " and the admission prices ranged from five to twenty-five cents, according to the location of seats.
It was opened for free entertainments Sept 4, 1890, but it was soon closed, and was advertised for sale. After seven months of worry and constant endeavor a license was procured and the place opened. After having been closed for many months, it was re- opened as an all-night dance hall, and called "The Newmarket," in March, 1897, but was shortly afterwards called "The Hay- market." William McMahon, the manager of the place, died in New York in the season of 1899.
THE GRAND STREET MUSEUM
AVERY humble east side place of amusement was "The Grand Street Museum," situated at Nos. 345 and 347 Grand Street. It was opened Dec. 8, 1888, and besides the liv- ing and other curiosities to be seen there, dramatic performances were given, and all could be enjoyed for ten cents.
CHICKERING HALL
CHICKERING HALL was situated on the northwest corner of Fifth Avenue and Eighteenth Street, and was opened in November, 1875, with a concert. The stage or music platform is sixty-one feet wide by twenty-eight feet deep, with no proscenium.
592 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1876
scenery or other provision for theatrical effects. The hall itself is one hundred and seven feet and seven inches deep, furnished with opera chairs, and had a seating capacity of thirteen hundred. Vienna Demorest made her first appearance here, and was a failure. Emma Abbott made her formal American debut in concert, Feb. 7, 1877, when Sig. Brignoli, Ferranti, and William M. Case (first appearance in New York), and Charles E. Pratt accompanist, appeared. The B. P. O. Elks gave their second public social session Sunday evening, Dec. 14, 1879.
Since this hall was first opened some of the most popular readers of this country have appeared here, while many of the greatest singers, male and female, heard in this country, have been seen in concerts. Oscar Wilde made his American debut as lecturer, Jan. 9, 1892. On April 27, 1887, the first recital of Edgar S. Kelly's music to "Macbeth" was given, under the direction of McKee Rankin. Chas. Dickens, eldest son of the famous novelist, appeared here as a reader Oct. 25, 1887. Chas. Santley, English baritone, made his first and only appearance in this city, after an absence of twenty years, afternoon, May 4, 1891. Geo. Grossmith, the orig- inal interpreter of the leading r61es of many of the Gilbert and Sullivan operas, notably Bunthorne in "Patience," and Koko in "The Mikado," made his American d6but Nov. 15, 1892, in his humorous and musical recitals. Johannes Wolff, violinist, and Joseph Holman, violoncellist, gave their first concert in America, Dec. 9. Cyril Tyler, a boy soprano, twelve years of age, made his bow here Dec. 15.
In the fall of 1893 it was decided by the Chickerings to alter this hall in order that it might be used in the business purposes of the firm.
BUNNELL'S MUSEUM
SITUATED at 103 and 105 Bowery was " Bunnell's Museum," which was opened in the fall of 1876, as the first popular museum at cheap prices. It has been stated that Charles A. Bradenburgh was the originator of the one-dime admission prin- ciple. This is not correct, as George Bunnell is the originator of the idea — that is, of giving stage performances in connection with curiosities. Bradenburgh had a museum in Brooklyn as early as 1866, also one on Broadway, New York, opposite 444, one year later; but the attractions were wax figures, mechanical contriv- ances, and pictorial views, and it remained for Bunnell to originate the afterwards popular priced dime museum. The feature at Bun- nell's Museum was "Dante's Inferno" in the basement. There
1886] THE REGENT 593
was a stage erected in the main hall, where various entertainments of a light character order were given. There were three stories, all filled with curiosities. Bunnell remained here for two years, and the place is now occupied as a furniture store. When Bunnell left here he went to 298 Bowery, near Bleecker Street, and opened what he called "The Great American Museum," in March, 1879. He secured a lease of the property from Georgiana B. English, while the building was in progress, turned it into a museum, and managed it successfully. He then sold an interest in the place to H. R. Jacobs and his partner Tillerson, who had a museum, a block or so further down the Bowery. Bunnell finally sold out to Frank Uffner and Middleton, who in a short time sold out to Mr. Grimm, now known as Geo. W. Ryder. This place was destroyed by fire. May 25, 1880.
BUNNELL'S MUSEUM
SITUATED at the northwest corner of Ninth Street and Broadway was found another "Bunnell's Museum." Geo. B. Bunnell had leased the building and fitted up six rooms with curiosities of every description. The opening took place Dec. 8, 1880, and the place was closed in 1883. From six to ten perform- ances were given daily from morning till night, and the attendance averaged over three thousand daily.
RUBER'S MUSEUM
AT 106-108 East Fourteenth Street, south side and running through to and including Nos. 103, 105, 107 Thirteenth Street, covering nearly five city lots, is "Huber's Museum." The buildings previously occupying these lots were used for a concert hall, oyster-house and hotel. The place first opened as a museum Aug. 13, 1888, with "freaks" and variety performances. The building was enlarged in 1889. G. H. Huber is the manager.
THE REGENT
THE old Horticultural Hall on the south side of Twenty- eighth Street, two doors west of Broadway, was fitted up by Everard, the brewer, as a music hall and opened June 8, 1886, by James Meade and John Cannon, who called it "The Regent." It was closed by the authorities in November, 1886, and reopened
VOL. II. —38
594 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE ZiSjs
by John Cannon soon afterwards. The next manager was Wallace Williams, who called it "The Fifth Avenue Music Hall," but it lasted only a short time. James Everard then fitted it up as a Turkish bath, and opened it May 7, 1888, with James W. Collier, the actor, as manager.
THE MANHATTAN OPERA HOUSE
AT 305 West Fifty-fourth Street, a few doors from Eighth Avenue, was "The Manhattan Opera House." It was fitted up for dramatic performances and was opened June 27, 1881, with May Roberts as the star in "The Two Orphans." J. E. Molloy, Jr., was the manager. It kept open only a brief time, after which it ceased to be a place of amusement.
MINER'S EIGHTH AVENUE THEATRE
ON the easterly side of Eighth Avenue, between Twenty-sixth and Twenty-seventh streets, is "Miner's Eighth Avenue Theatre." It was erected by Harry Miner and Thomas Canary, for a variety theatre, and opened Nov. 21, 1881, but was destroyed by fire Jan. i, 1902. It is being rebuilt.
VERCELLI'S THEATRE
SITUATED at 152 and 154 East Forty-second Street, between Third and Lexington avenues, was "Vercelli's Theatre." It had been used in 1880 for a variety of entertainments. On Aug. 29, 1881, Fannie Wallack and the "Wallack Tripologue Troupe" opened here in "Perfection" and the farce "Torturing Tame Turtles." Alf. Burnett opened here Oct. 17 with a vaude- ville entertainment, and called the house "The Grand Central." Burnett and Whittaker were managers. In a few months it went out of existence as a place for entertainments.
THE CHATEAU MABILLE VARIETIES
IN the upper story of the building located on the south side of Thirty-fourth Street, one door east of Third Avenue, was "The Chateau Mabille." It was once familiarly called "Glass Hall," and was raided by the police Feb. 2$, 1878. Soon after this it was closed and is now a tenement house.
1877: CENTRAL PARK GARDEN & HART'S THEATRE 595
MEADE'S MIDGET HALL
ON the northwest corner of Fifth Avenue and Fourteeenth Street was "Meade's Midget Hall." In November, 1887, James Meade introduced General Mite and Minnie Aborn, two diminutive people, to the public. This place is now a carpet warehouse. It was known at one time as " Brewster Hall. "
THE COLUMBIA OPERA HOUSE
SITUATED on the west side of Twelfth Street and Greenwich Avenue, was the " Columbia Opera House." A miscellane- ous entertainment of the sensational kind was given here in the fall of 1875. In January, 1876, it was known as "The American Alhambra." Cheap variety performers appeared. It was raided by the police Feb. 25, 1878. It was called " The Folly Theatre " on Nov. 25, 1878, and was opened with the fairy extravaganza, "Little Bo- Peep." In the company were: Sidney Nelson, Jennie Yeamans, W. C. Crosby, Harry Pratt, Lizzie Thorndyke, Emma Young, Albert Martinetti, Carrie Lewis, Susie Ulm, Bella Bent, Mattie Lewis, Julian Martinetti, Mary Gorenflo, Irene Carleton, Lizzie Clarence, Annie Yeamans, Jenny White, Daisy Moore, the Clinetop Sisters, Bertha Rupert, Bryant, and Williams. It is now used as a livery stable.
CENTRAL PARK GARDEN
SITUATED on the west side of Seventh Avenue, between Fifty -eighth and Fifty-ninth streets, was "The Central Park Garden." It was used for summer concerts by Theo. Thomas and orchestra. It was opened May 17, 1875, having been remodelled by John Koch, the manager. Messrs, Appleby were the next managers, who opened the place August, 1875, with the Theo. Thomas' concerts. It was closed Sept. 16, with a bene- fit to Theo. Thomas. On Nov. 16, 17, 18, there was a walking match between Mary Marshall and Peter Van Ness. After being closed for some time it was reopened by Josh Hart, May 19, 1877, as "Central Park Garden and Hart's Summer Theatre." Max Maretzek was the musical conductor, Henry Wannamacher, leader of orchestra. Aug. 20 Mr. Hart retired from the manage- ment, and Thomas & Watson were the next lessees, but with the ap- proach of the cool weather it was closed as a place of amusement.
596 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1868
JEROME THEATRE
SITUATED on the southeast corner of Twenty-sixth Street and Madison Avenue was the "Jerome Theatre," It was used for amateur performances, and was known as the " Union League Theatre." Agnes Ethel here made her first appearance in public Oct. 10, 1868, in"Camille." On Sept. 19, 1872, Fechter appeared here as Frederick de Marsden in "On Demande un Gouverneur," supported by a French company. Mrs. H. P. Grattan made her last appearance in public here Oct. 10, 1876, as Mme. Prudence in "Camille," when Agnes Cherrie made her debut as Camille.
Helen Bancroft played one week here, commencing Jan. 22, 1883, in "The Hunchback." On April 9 Amy Lee was seen in the comedy called " Lillian, or Shades and Sunshine." Adelaide Fitz Allen made her first appearance on the stage here April 11, acting in "Love's Sacrifice."
THIRTY-FOURTH STREET THEATRE
SITUATED on the south side of Thirty-fourth Street, between Second and Third avenues was " The Thirty-Fourth Street Theatre." It was opened Nov. 27, 1871, by William M. Smith, with a variety performance. The next manager was William C. Mitchell, who took possession Feb. 5, 1872. Charley Shay was the next manager, he opening it Sept. 30, 1872, as "Charley Shay's Opera House," and closed Oct. 15.
It was reopened April 14, 1873, under the management of Mons. John La Thome. Aug. 31, 1874, its name was changed to "Jake Berry's Opera House." The next and last manager was C. S. Gray, who opened it for the season of 1876; W. W. Newcomb was stage manager and Ned Straight was leader of the orchestra.
ALLEMANIA HALL
AT 18 East Sixteenth Street, south side, between Fifth Avenue and Broadway, was "Allemania Hall," better known as "Robinson Hall." It was originally a private residence and was erected in 1840. It was afterwards a club house. It was shortly after that used as a ball room and subsequently fitted up for miscellaneous entertainments. It was opened Oct. 15, 1868, with Prof. Rhodes' geological exhibition, "Earth and Man."
1870] THE OLD SKATING RINK 597
Mr. Robinson soon afterwards secured the place and altered it into a regular place of amusement. He opened it with a vaudeville en- tertainment and managed the house for two seasons. The next name this theatre had was "The Bijou." It was opened Feb. 29, 1872, by a French comedy company in " Le Meurtrier de Theodore " (the original of "Who Killed Cock Robin .' "). On Sept. 8, 1873, Bul- lock's Marionettes appeared here. Owen Marlowe, who had just re- turned from California, was heard here Nov. 28, in readings. Prof. Cromwell was seen here April, 1874, with his Lectures and Stere- opticon views. The place was now called " The Parisian Varie- ties," and was opened Sept. 15, 1874. Fred Maccabe having closed an engagement at Steinway Hall, opened here Dec. 7. Callender's Georgia minstrels were seen here March 8, 1875. On May 19 " Girofle-Girofla " was sung. The next manager was G. A. Hender- son, who, Sept. 15, 1875, named the house "The New York Pari- sian Varieties." W. H. Woodbury was the next lessee. He rechristened it " The Parisian Varieties. " In December, 1 876, the place was known as " The Criterion. " It was reopened (hav- ing been closed for a few weeks) April 2, 1877, with the burlesque "Two Spheres." The place was then called "The Parisian Vaudeville." The next manager was A. H. Sheldon, who opened it May 15, 1877, as "The Sixteenth Street Theatre," with "Sarah's Young Man" and the burlesque "The Forty Thieves. " The property was finally turned over to the trustees of the Apprentices' Library, who purchased it in July, 1877, and after extensive alterations opened it as "Mechanics' Hall," June 21, 1878. It continued to be used as a Library until 1890, when the trustees moved to its present quarters. Forty-fourth Street.
THE OLD SKATING RINK
SITUATED on the corner of Sixty-first Street and Third Avenue was the " Old Skating Rink. " It was opened June 13, 1870, with a musical jubilee and Beethoven festival. It had accommodations for twenty-two thousand persons. Among the artists on this occasion were Mme. Parepa Rosa, P. S. Gilmore, Clara Louise Kellogg, Caroline Richings, Mrs. Howard Paul, Mme. Marietta Gazzaniga, Rose Hersee, Isabella McCulloch, Zelda Harrison Seguin, Mile. Pauline Canissa, Rosa Cook, Mme. Johanna Rotter, Mme. Bertha Johannsen, Mile. Frida de Gebele, Mile. Sophie Dziuba, Anna Bishop, Sig. P. Brignoli, Sig. Ch. Lefranc, William Castle, Theo. Habelmann, Francesco Filippi, H. Nordblom, B. Massimilliani, M. Lotti, Joseph Hermann, W. W. Whitney, S. C. Campbell, Henri Drayton, Petrilli, G. Reyna,
598 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1899
A. Susini, Ad. Randolfi, Harry Peakes, and Wilhelm Formes. Gilmore's Band, including M. Arbuckle, Dodworth's Twenty- second Regiment Band, Downing' s Seventy-first regiment band, Carl Bergman, conductor of Philharmonic Society; Carl Zerrahn, conductor of the Handel and Haydn Societies; Max Maretzek, Carl Rosa, and Dr. James Pech, senior organist of Trinity Parish, were the musical directors.
The tenth and last concert was given June 18. The programme contained selections from the Ninth Symphony sung by five thou- sand Sabbath-school children, and a grand national finale, given with eight thousand voices, the immense orchestra, drum corps, military bands, the organ, and the electric artillery. The chorus was by the Handel and Haydn Society of Boston with nearly five hundred voices, over two hundred brass and reed instruments, a jubilee orchestra of five hundred and forty virtuosi, the anvil company, chime of bells, and electric artillery.
The American Institute held its fairs here for years. Originally these exhibitions were given in old Castle Garden, and were a distinguishing feature of New York's great functions. The Insti- tute was organized in 1828.
The Institute gave eighteen exhibitions of live stock from 1838 to 1859, several of them on the ground where the Fifth Avenue Hotel now stands, and then considered to be "out of town." In 1848 the Institute purchased for ;^45,ooo the brownstone front building, No. 351 Broadway, which A. T. Stewart erected for a store, but never occupied, having decided to erect the marble dry goods palace on Broadway, between Chambers and Reade streets. With strict economy the Institute paid for this new building and later sold it at a great advance and removed to the Cooper Union building. Still later the Institute had quarters in Clinton Hall.
The first fair was given in Masonic Hall in 1828, and at various times exhibitions were held in Niblo's Garden, Castle Garden, the Crystal Palace on Reservoir Square, Palace Garden, Academy of Music, then in this place, the Old Skating Rink. It was by the American Institute that the Morse system of telegraphy was first shown, and Col. Samuel Colt exhibited his revolving fire-arms. Col. Richard M. Hoe exhibited his lightning printing press under the auspices of the Institute, and the telephone, in its early crude state, also was given a hearing. In 1897 the American Institute fair went to Madison Square Garden. In April, 1899, the Insti- tute leased a large hall and three rooms in the Berkeley Lyceum building, Nos. 19 to 21 West Forty-fourth Street, for five years.
1868: PIKE'S OPERA HOUSE 599
PIKE'S OPERA HOUSE
IT will, no doubt, surprise many even among the theatre-goers of the West Side to learn that the magnificent theatre at Twenty-third Street and Eighth Avenue was first dedicated to public uses as "Pike's Opera House." It was erected by Samuel N. Pike, of Cincinnati, Ohio. The property on which it stands orig- inally belonged to the estate of Clement C. Moore. In 1843 it was leased for twenty-one years to George C. Peters and Lent, proprietors of the old Knickerbocker line of stage coaches. In May, 1864, Mr. Pike bought off all the tenants, and the property in fee from the heirs of Mr. Moore. He at once commenced the erection of the magnificent building, now known as the " Grand Opera House," situated on the northwest corner of Eighth Avenue and Twenty -third Street.
The theatre itself is one hundred and eighty-five feet in length, eighty feet in breadth, and the height from the parquet to the dome is seventy feet. The auditorium consists of six proscenium boxes, parquet, parquet circle, dress circle, and family circle. The seating capacity of the house is one thousand, eight hundred and eighty-three, but over thirty-five hundred persons have gained admission at one performance. The entire cost of the building was about one million dollars.
The opening of the house was announced for Jan. 6, 1868, with Italian opera, but, in consequence of an accident to Sig. Brignoli, the initial performance was postponed to Jan. 9. The opera com- pany consisted of Mme. Anna de La Grange, Adelaide Phillips, Isabella McCulloch, Brignoli, Massimilliani, Orlandini, Susini, Coletti, Sarti, Nicolao (musical director), and Max Strakosch, manager. " II Trovatore " was given with this cast : Leonora, Anna de La Grange; Azucena, Adelaide Phillips; Manrico, Sig. Massimilliani; Count di Luna, Sig. Orlandini; Ferrando, Sig. Coletti.
H. L. Bateman was the next manager, and began Oct. 14 with an opera bouffe company, in " La Grande Duchesse," Miles. Tost6e and Lambele and MM. Aujac, Leduc, Lagriffoul, Duchesne, Daron, and Guidon in the principal r61es.
Mile. Irma appeared Nov. 16 in " Barbe Bleue. " Nov. 30 the two opera companies under Bateman's control joined forces and consisted of Tostee, Irma, Lambele, Duclos, Marie Tholer, Henri- etta Rose, Mathilde, Hamilton, and Louise, and MM. Aujac, Deere, Duchesne, Leduc, Lagriffoul, Tholer, Francis, Dardignac, Bene- dick, Hamilton, Guidon, and Edgard. " Lieschen and Fritschen " was given, with Tostee and Dardignac in the chief rSles, Dec. 7,
6oo A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D869
8 ; an act of " La Grande Duchesse " and two acts of " Barbe Bleue " made up the bill, with Tostee in the former and Irma in the latter. Dec. 9 " Les Bavards " was produced for the first time in America. The cast: Roland, Mile. Tostee; Beatrix, Mile. Duclos; Ines, Mile. Lambele; Sarmiento, M. Duchesne; Torribio, M. Leduc; Christoval, M. Francis. The second act of "Barbe Bleue" was given with it each evening until Dec. 21, when was presented, for the first time in America, "La Chanson de For- tunio": Valentin, Mile. Irma; Laurette, Mile. Lambele; Fortunio, M. Francis; Friquet, M. Leduc.
" La Perichole " was sung Jan. 4, 1869, for the first time in America, and had this cast:
Don Pedro de Hinoyosa . M. Edgard Le Marquis de Tarapote . M. Francis
Ninetta Mile. Anna
Mannefretta .... Mile. Carman First Notary . . . . M. Hamilton Second Notary . . . . M. Guidon
First Drinker M. Brabant
Second Drinker . . . . M. Brunet
La Perichole Mile. Irma
Guadelina Mile. Rose
Berginella Mile. Tholer
Mastrilla Mile. Cadic
Frasquinella .... Mile. Arsene
Brambilla Mile. Mathilde
Pequillo M. Aujac
Don Andreas de Ribeira . M. Leduc Le Comte de Pauatellas, M. Lagriffoul
Mr. Bateman closed his season Jan. 9, having sold his interest in the opera bouffe company to James Fisk, Jr. Irma took a benefit Jan. 29, when the third act of "II Trovatore " was given, with that lady as Leonora, M. Aujac as Manrico, and M. Tholer as the Count di Luna. "Les Deux Aveugles" was presented Feb. 5, for the first time in America, with Leduc as Giraffier, and M. Lagriffoul as Patachom. Irma and Aujac closed their engagement Feb. 6, when "La Perichole" was sung.
" Orph^e aux Enfers " had its first hearing here Feb. 8, and with this cast :
Orph^e M. Deere
Jupiter M. Duchesne
John Styx M. Guidon
Mercury M. Lagriffoul
PlSo'} M. Leduc
Eurydice Mile. Tostfe
Diane Mile. Duclos
Cupid Mile. Canadeau
Venus Mile. Cadic
Minerve .... Mile. Delphine Public Opinion . . . Mile. Arsene
The season closed Feb. 19, 1869.
The next proprietors of this place of amusement were James Fisk, Jr., and Jay Gould, who styled it "The Grand Opera House." Mr. Gould's name appeared only for a few days. The opera bouffe company continued in "La Perichole." On March 31 James Fisk's name appeared as proprietor, and Clifton W. Tayleure as manager. Wm. Davidge was stage manager, and Henry Tis- sington musical director. "The Tempest " was produced in mag- nificent style March 31, with this cast:
I86g;]
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
6oi
Prospero . . . . E. L. Davenport
Ferdinand Frank Mayo
Caliban W. Davidge
Alonzo F. C. Bangs
Sebastian T. F. Egberts
Gonzalo C. Loveday
Stepbano .... F. Chippendale
Antonio Jas. Carden
Adrien E. Gillett
Francisco N. Mclntyre
Trinculo. . . Walter Lennox, Sen.
Boatswain Geo. Johnson
Miranda .... Josephine Fiddes
Ariel Catherine Lucette
Juno Miss Oakley
Ceres Lilly Davenport
Iris May Saville
The Harpy . . . Nannie Egberts
The ballet was led by Mile. Morlacchi. This was the first ap- pearance in this city of Frank Mayo. The following salaries were paid: E. L. Davenport, ^300; Frank Mayo, 1^250; W. Davidge, $60; F. C. Bangs, ^40; T. F. Egberts, $2$; Walter Lennox, ^40; Chas. Loveday, ^30; F. Chippendale, ;^40; Jas. Carden, ^40; E. Gillett, $2^ ; Nichol Mclntyre, $2$ ; Geo. Johnson, $2$ ; Josephine Fiddes, $125; Catherine Lucette, ^75; Jenny Oakley, ^15; Lilly Davenport, ^30; May Saville, $30; Nannie Egberts, ;^io; the "Morlacchi Ballet," 1^525, comprising six premikres danseuses, ten coryphees, and fifteen figurantes.
Sardou's "Patrie" had its first performance in America, May 24. The play was purchased by Clifton Tayleure in Paris, and expressly translated and adapted for this theatre by A. de Lile. The scenery was painted by Marston, Duflocq, Seavey, Thome, and Smith. There were one hundred soldiers, supers, and aux- iliaries in the production. The total receipts of its twelve nights and two matinees were only $6, 323. 30. " Patrie " was thus cast :
Count Rysoor . . La Tremonville . William of Orange Cortadillo, a mute Donna Dolores Donna Rafaela Gudule . . . Capt. Karloo . Duke of Alva . Jonas . . .
C. W. Couldock
Geo. H. Clarke
J. Clinton Hall
W. H. Beekraan
Mary Gladstane
. Blanche Grey
Nannie Egberts
Frank Mayo
. F. C. Bangs
F. Chippendale
Noircarmes Capt. Reicon Vargas . . Alberti . . Miguel . . Navarra Von Strapen Cornelius . Galena . .
. . Jas. Carden . Chas. Loveday . . A. C. Enos . Geo. Johnson Nichol Mclntyre . H. W. Peck J. A. Burnes . . J. M. Cook . . J. D. Bilby
The " Morlacchi Ballet " was one of the features of the produc- tion. The play was a failure, and was withdrawn in two weeks, and the house was closed.
The theatre was reopened June 21, 1869, with Harry C. Page as business manager; H. B. Phillips, stage manager; H. Tissington, musical director. Lucille Western was the star, and the company engaged to support her were : McKee Rankin, J. Newton Gotthold, E. L. Tilton, W. E. Sheridan, J. A. Heme, A. W. Church, Vining Bowers, W. A. Donaldson, G. F. Devere, H. C. Barton, Mrs. M. A. Bradshaw, Mrs. Marie Wilkins, Mrs. F. Blaisdell, Alice Wren,
6o2 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D869
Blanche Bradshaw, Emma Maddern, Fanny Cave, and La Petite Wren. "East Lynne " was the opening play.
" Leah the Forsaken " was played July 2, followed by " Oliver Twist," July s; "The Child Stealer," July 19; July 26, "Satan in Paris ; " Aug. 2, " East Lynne " was repeated ; Aug. 7, " Lucrezia Borgia " and " Handy Andy ; " Aug. 9, " The Green Bushes ; " Aug. 14, " Rosina Meadows ; " Aug. 16, "The Spy of St. Marc;" Aug. 18, "Flowers of the Forest;" Aug. 21, "The Spy of St. Marc" and "The Robber's Wife;" and Aug. 23, "The Sea of Ice," with Lucille Western as Ogarita. Sept. 13 "Patrie" was revived, with Lucille Western as Donna Dolores, E. L. Tilton as Rysoor, and Claude Hamilton as La Tremonville. Lucille Western terminated her engagement Oct. 2. " The Tempest " was revived Oct. 4, with this cast :
Caliban .
Ferdinand
Prospero
Gonzalo .
Francisco
Stephano
Alonzo .
Chas. Wheatleigh J. H. Taylor E. L. Tilton Geo. Farren E. K. Collier S. W. Glenn
George F. Devere
Antonio Chas. J. Fyffe
Trinculo . . . Wm. Davidge, Sen.
Miranda Annie Deland
Ariel Lisa Weber
Juno Clara Fisher
Iris Blanche Bradshaw
Rita Sangalli was premiere danseuse. Oct. 13 Mr. Tissington had a matinee benefit, when a concert was given by Jules Levy, Henry Sanderson, B. Mollenhauer, Lisa Weber, Clara Fisher, and the orchestra; Sangalli danced, Geo. Clarke recited "Shamus O'Brien," and Charles Fisher, H. B. Phillips, and Mme. Ponisi played in " Masks and Faces. "
"The Tempest" was withdrawn Oct. 16, and Edmund Falconer's play, founded on Lever's novel, "Charles O'Malley, the Irish Dra- goon," was produced Oct. 18, and thus cast:
Mickey Free . . Edmund Falconer Charles O'Malley . . J. H. Taylor Sir George Dashwood . . E. L. Tilton Frank Webber . . . C. A. Loveday
Lucy Dashwood . . . Annie Deland Donna Inez . . . Emma Maddern
Mary Lisa Weber
Maid Miss Bradshaw
A troop of mounted dragoons was introduced in this drama.
Mr. Falconer took a benefit Nov. 12, and acted Tim O'Reilly in" The Fetches."
A season of English opera was begun Nov. 15 by the Caroline Richings-Bernard company, which included Henry Haigh, Brook- house Bowler, Henri Drayton, Henry Peakes, James Arnold, James Peakes, Pierre Bernard, Annie Kemp (Mrs. B. Bowler), Anna Muchka, Emma Howson, and others. " Maritana " was the initial performance, followed by " Crown Diamonds," Nov. 16, when Henry Haigh made his first appearance in this city ; matinee, Nov. 17, "Fra Diavolo" was sung; evening, Nov, 17, Emma Howson
1870]
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
603
|
Count San Bris |
. . H. C. Peakes |
|
Tavannes . . |
. . J. G. Peakes |
|
Cosse . . . |
. . . W. Birch |
|
De Retz . . . |
. . Warren White |
|
Meru . . . . |
. . George Neil |
|
Bois Rose . . |
Pierre Bernard |
made her first appearance in this city, singing the title r61e in "Maritana;" Nov. 19, "II Trovatore;" "The Bohemian Girl" was sung Nov. 22, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30; "La Sonnambula," Nov. 24; "Martha," Dec. i, with the debut of Blanche EUerman in the title rdle; Dec. 2, "Maritana;" Dec. 3, "Faust," for the benefit of Henri Drayton; matinee, Dec. 4, "The Bohemian Girl;" even- ing, Dec. 4, "Fra Diavolo;" Dec. 6 "The Huguenots" was sung in English for the first time in America, and thus cast :
Count de Nevers .... Jas. Arnold Margaret de Valois
Mrs. Henri Drayton Valentina . . Mrs. Richings-Bernard Urban .... Annie Kemp Bowler
Raoul Henry Haigh
Marcel Henri Drayton
The company closed Dec. 11, with "The Bohemian Girl." William Horace Lingard, with a combination, including Alice Dunning, appeared here Dec. 13, in "All That Glitters is not Gold," the Lingard sketches, and the burlesque, "Pluto, or The Magic Lyre." Edwin F. Thorn e, Edward Coleman, Geo. Parkes, and Amelia Harris were in the company. Mr. and Mrs. Howard Paul were added to the attraction Dec. 20, and appeared in their protean sketches ; " A Day After the Wedding " and " The Maid and the Magpie " were also played. Dickie Lingard and A. D. Billings appeared here Dec. 27. Nully Pieris, vocalist, joined the organization Jan. 10, 1870, when Lingard produced "Elvina, or I and the Other;" "Pluto" and "The Spitalfields Weaver" were also played. Geo. Boniface appeared Jan. 17, in "David Garrick," supported by Mrs. Boniface as Ada Ingot, J. H. Healy as Simon Ingot, and W. Davidge, Jr. as Squire Chivy. "Cool as a Cucumber" was seen Jan. 21. Jan. 24, "Jocrisse the Juggler" was acted. The house was closed from Jan. 27 until Feb. 7.
Joseph C. Foster and John E. McDonough's spectacle, "The Twelve Temptations" was presented Feb. 7, with this cast:
Ulric G. C. Boniface
Rudolph E. L. Tilton
Eric C. Maxwell
Petreuse Lewis Baker
Kalig W. Davidge, Jr.
Eblis J. Daly
Gnometol T. Ward
Scourgeall C. T. Wilson
Prince Banodin . . . . L. Sanders
Pietro Albert Enos
Sir Anthony .... C. La Forest Michael Braun . . C. W. Marcelles Emperor of Germany, Mr. Pendleton
Bishop of Flanders . . Mr. Gordon Executioner of the Ape T. Williamson Executioner of Fire . . J. W. Benton Niocell . . . Mrs. Geo. C. Boniface
Bedufor C. B. Douglas
Orchus M. B. Pike
Busirus J. Taylor
Metcalf M. C. Daly
Janette Mme. Ponisi
Margueretta .... Nully Pieris Princess . . . . Miss F. Claribel
Justice Miss F. Lovelace
Faith Nannie Egberts
6o4 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1871
It ran until July 9. The ballets were led by the Francesca Sisters, Rachel and Maria, and Miles. Josephine Strudel and Antonio Corsi, Sig. Costa being the ballet master. Cora Adriana and Eugenie Operti, premihres danseuses, appeared March 7, when a new ballet, entitled " The Demon Can-can " was done. Lupo and Albertina, danseuses, appeared March 21. Kathi Lanner's Viennoise ballet company, brought to this country by Mr. Fisk, made their American debut July 1 1. It included Kathi Lanner, Bertha Lind (said to be a niece of Jenny Lind), Albert Geroldini, director; Mons. and Mme. Alberti, De Francesca, and Van de Vergue, male dancers; ten premihes, eighteen coryphees; in all numbering over fifty people.
The entertainment commenced with a farce, by William E. Suter, entitled "Brother Bill and Me," in which Geo. Boniface, Sen., Harry Jackson, W. Davidge, Jr., and Mrs. Boniface sustained the principal characters. When the farce was finished, the " Ajax Parisian Troupe " appeared in the new ballet, " The Nations, or the Conscript and the Vivandiere." "La Giselle, or the Willis," was next presented. Mme. Weiss introduced this style of enter- tainment to America in 1846, combining ballet and pantomime, and our old theatre-goers need not be reminded of the extraordinary sensation their appearance created at the old Park Theatre.
The Opera House was closed July 23, 24, to prepare for one of the strongest attractions presented at this theatre — an opera comique and opera bouffe company, consisting of Mile. Lea Silly, Celine Montaland, Susanne Thai, Juliette Jousse, Julia Hache, Constant Guisins, Paul Lermina, Mons. Varlet, Mons. Antony, Paul Hittemans, Emilia Beaumont, Louise Lesage, Victorine Legrange, Marie Vaudelet, Lisa Darlia, filoise Lasalle, Victor Brabant, Cayla, Esteppe Victer, Fidele Dubois, George Beaudis, Adrian Valter, Henri Flerimat, Piene Villa, Branche, Mons. Ch. Esteve, stage manager, and Sig. Carlo Patti, musical director. The first performance took place Sept. 26. " Les Brigands " was first produced in America Nov. 14. The company closed Dec. 20. Celine Montaland died in Paris, Jan. 8, 1891, aged forty- eight years. She was a native of Ghent in Belgium. In ,1853 she made her debut at the Palais Royal, Paris. In 1870 she first ap- peared here as Marguerite in Herve's "Petit Faust." After her American sojourn she returned to Paris, played in various theatres there, and made a sensation at St. Petersburg. In 1884 she became a member of the Comddie Frangaise, taking the place of the famous Madeleine Brohan. She was an artist with the pencil and brush, a woman of beauty and wit, and always a great favorite with the Parisian public.
Marie Aim^e appeared here Jan. 12 1871, as Boulotte in " Barbe Bleue. " " La Pdrichole " was sung with Aim6e in the title
i87i: GRAND OPERA HOUSE 605
r61e, Jan. 14, for the first time in America. Lea Silly acted Boulotte in "Barbe Bleue."
Aimee was seen again in " La Perichole," Feb. 3, 4. What was called an operatic carnival commenced Feb. 6. It consisted of four operas, four prime donne, and four tenors each night. It commenced with the second act of "Les Brigands," by Silly and Thai, second act of " Barbe Bleue, " by Silly, second act of " La Grande Duchesse," by Persini, and second act of "La Perichole," by Aimee. A benefit occurred Feb. 28 for the Geo. Holland fund.
Benefits were given the week of Feb. 27: "Les Brigands," Feb. 27, for M. Antony; Feb. 28, "La Perichole," for M. Girrebeuk; March i, "Barbe Bleue," for M. Hittemans; and March 2, "La Perichole," for M. Varlet.
" Les Georgiennes " had its first representation in America, March 6, with Aimee in the principal r61e. Aimee appeared as the Grande Duchesse April 3, and for her first benefit in America as the heroine in "La Belle Helena," April 13; the fourth act of " La Favorita " was also given. The Rigl Sisters (Betty and Emily), danseuses, closed their engagement here April 15. "Le Petit Faust " was revived May 3, with Aimee as Mephisto for the first time. Henry C. Page took a benefit May 4, when "Barbe Bleue " and " Sketches in India " were presented. Aimee termi- nated her engagement May 20, and the season of eight months closed.
Marie Aimee (right name Tronchon) must have been born for opera bouffe. She had the eye for it, the mouth for it, and the abandon for it. She always appeared to be carried away by the grotesque humor of the part. One of the most consummate and artistic bits of comedy acting ever witnessed in this country on the lyric stage was Aimee's singing of the drinking song in "La Perichole." Many other French stars of comic opera have visited us since Aimee's first appearance, but none have overshadowed her reputation. " Les Cloches de Corneville " was first played in New York in French by Aimee at the Park Theatre, May 25,^1878. In August, 1884, she revisited America, and made her debut in an English-speaking comedy called "Mam'zelle," by Geo. Jessop and William Gill, at Kingston, N. Y., Sept. 11. For two or three seasons previous Aimee had been singing in English " Pretty as a Picture." She first appeared in New York in "Mam'zelle" at the Fifth Avenue Theatre, Dec. 15. She died at Paris, Oct. 2, 1887. For two years prior to her death Aimee was a great sufferer from cancer. She went to Paris to undergo a surgical operation. She left property estimated at nearly ^40,000, nearly all of which was bequeathed to Ricardo Diaz Albertini, an actor, who travelled with her English company, and was known as Sig. del Campo. The pantomime, "The Three Hunchbacks," was produced May
6o6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1871
22. Charles Abbott as Clown; James W. Sandford, Harlequin; Chas. Chrisdie, Pantaloon; and Mile. Emma, Columbine. Moe and Goodrich, roller skaters, Belle Howitt, Ethel Norman, La Petite Benson, the French Twin Sisters, and a large ballet, led by Marie Bonfanti, were among the features. C. Winter Ravel commenced as Harlequin, June 12; also the Deardon Sisters as Columbine and character danseuses. The last performance of " The Three Hunchbacks " was June 24, when, in addition to its per- formance, the opera, " The Bohemian Girl " was sung, with Henri Drayton as Count Arnheim, Brookhouse Bowler as Thaddeus, Arthur Matthison as Florestein, Arthur Howell as Devilshoof, Rose Hersee as Arline, and Fannie Goodwin as the Gypsy Queen. This closed the season. Aimee and her company gave an extra performance of " La P^richole " July 5, night.
The next managers of this house were John F. Cole and J. Lewis Baker, who opened a season Sept. 4, 1871, with the following com- pany: Thomas E. Morris, business manager; H. Tissington, musi- cal director; Edwin F. Thome, Mark Smith, Moses W. Fiske, T. J. Hind, W. H. Pope, C. T. Parsloe, Jr., J. W. Brutone, Geo. Johnson, J. McEvoy, Delancy Barclay, J. Jones, Henrietta Os- borne, Edith Challis, Emma Cline, Marion Fiske, Harry Eytinge, Emma Keough, Frances Jackson, Lena Thurber, and C. W. Barry. Daniel E. Bandmann appeared in "Narcisse." De Leon's play, "Jasper," an adaptation of Dickens' unfinished story of Edwin Drood was produced Sept. 11. "Narcisse" was reproduced with Bandmann as Narcisse and Mrs. Bandmann as Doris Quinault. Gus Phillips, well known as "Oofty Gooft," made his debut on the stage, Sept. 18, in a drama by Edwin F. de Nyse, entitled "Oofty Gooft." lone Burke, Mme. Ponisi, and J. B. Studley were in the cast. Mr. Phillips continued for two weeks. He died in this city, April 7, 1893. Oct. 2, Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Florence were seen in "Eileen Oge, or Dark's the Hour before the Dawn." Oct. 1 7 a benefit took place for the Chicago fire relief fund. T. C. de Leon's drama, "Paris, or Days of the Commune," was pro- duced Nov. 27, with this cast :
Ada Gray
Adfele Dupr^ ) Theresa > ' ' '
Livingston C. W. Barry
Babot J. F. Hagan
Corporal Rdne . . W. H. Whalley Phillip and Paul . . Joseph Wheelock ^mile de Roule . . Moses W. Fiske
Mother I'Enfer . Henrietta Osborne Countess de Roule . . Edith Challis
Bautre C. W. Barry
Singe Chas. T. Parsloe
Mile. Flora .... Emma Cline Petit Cochon .... Marion Fiske
This was the first appearance at this theatre of William Whalley. Frank Mayo appeared Dec. 4 as D'Artagnan in "The Three Guardsmen." "Charles O'Malley," with a stud of twenty horses, was seen Dec. 18.
1872]
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
607
There was a performance of "The Postilion of Lonjumeau," Dec. 25, with Wachtel in the tenor r61e for the afternoon, and in the evening Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Florence were seen in " The Ticket of Leave Man," which had this cast:
Emily St. Evremond
Mrs. W. J. Florence Bob Briefly . . . W. J. Florence Hawkshaw .... J- F. Hagan Mr. Gibson T. J. Hind
Jim Dalton Green Jones . Melter Moss . Maltby . . . May Edwards
E. F. Thorne
M. W. Fiske
C. W. Barry
S. B. Duffield
. lone Burke
Mr. Florence acted Myles na Coppaleen, in "The Colleen Bawn," Jan. i, 1872. James Fisk, Jr., who was assassinated in the Grand Central Hotel, by Edward Stokes, died Jan. 17. Stokes was arrested, tried, and sentenced to Auburn State Prison, from which place he was liberated Oct. 28, 1876. This house was closed Jan. 8. " No Thoroughfare " was first acted Jan. 9, with Florence as Obenreizer, Moses Fiske as Joey Ladle. Avery Smith's circus company opened here Jan. 22. John J. Nathans and Lew June were also associated with Avery Smith. The arena was placed on the stage. The company continued until Feb. 17, and the three managers, who had been identified with circuses for some thirty-five years, retired into private life.
The Mulder-Fabbri opera company began a season Feb. 19, in "The Merry Wives of Windsor." They consisted of Carl Formes, Jacob Muller, Lehmann, C. Aves, Juniczko, Joseph Weinlich, Clara Perl, Anna Rosetti, and Inez Fabbri. " Ivanhoe " was sung Feb. 20. Sunday evening a concert was given by Fabbri, Mme. Anna Bishop, Levy, Clara Perl, and the Ninth regiment band. " Lalla Rookh " was announced for Feb. 26, but in consequence of the spectacle not being ready, the house was closed until March 18. " Lalla Rookh " was then produced, with this cast :
Clip Clap M. W. Fiske
Falladeen T. E. Morris
Pango J. J. Rainey
Liskar Emma Cline
Ziraftighan .... J. B. Studley
Aliris Geo. Becks
Arunzeba J. R. Healey
Pinion Susan Galton
Lalla Rookh .... Edith Challis
The season closed with " Lalla Rookh," May 4.
Mile, de Rosa, Mile. Albertine, Mile. Louisa Mazzeri, and Mile. Lusuardi led the corps de ballet.
Augustin Daly became manager of this house in August, 1872, and opened it Aug. 26, with the following company: Mrs. John Wood, Rose Hersee, Emma Howson, the Majiltons, Annie De- land, Ella Dietz, Miss C. Bronte, Helen Strange, Mary Stuart, Blanche Hayden, Annie Yeamans, John Brougham, Robert Craig, Stuart Robson, Lauri Family. J. W. Jennings, G. F. Ketchum. J. G. Peakes, Martin Golden, Julian Cross, J. A. Meade, and J. A. Mackay. A spectacular opera bouffe by Sardou and Offenbach,
6o8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D873
adapted by Aug. Daly, entitled "Le Roi Carotte," was presented, and played until Nov. 23. The cast was :
Rose du Soir Robin Luson Cunegonde King Carrot
Rose Hersee
Mrs. John Wood
Emma Howson
John Brougham
Truck Stuart Robson
Fridolin Robert Craig
Baron Koffre . . . George Ketchum
The Majilton Family, eccentric dancers, and the Lauri Family, acrobats, were in the play.
Mr. Daly's local play, "Round the Clock," was first acted Nov. 24, and had this cast :
Juliana Mrs. John Wood Rascal Sue .... Annie Yeamans
Ernesta Emma Howson The Queen .... Helen Strange
Abraham . . . John W. Jennings Prince James Peakes
Mutton Martin Golden Roderick .... John Brougham
Alderman E. Pierce Joey Ella Dietz
The Manager .... J. G. Peakes Peter Dodd .... Jas. Meade
Billy Valters .... Chas. Lauri Zamiel A. G. Enos
Black Sal John Lauri Dusty Bob Harry Lauri
Lawyer Goddigott . G. F. Ketchum Rose Roberta Norwood
Mrs. Peter Dodd . . Annie Deland
In addition to "Round the Clock," a new pantomime scene was presented Dec. 23.
Robert Craig died at St. Louis, Mo., Dec. 9, 1872, of conges- tion of the brain. Mr. Craig was a member of the Winter Garden company, this city, season 1860-61. He acted Fridolin in"Le Roi Carotte," until Oct. 26. Mr. Craig left a widow, formerly Josephine Henry.
"The Cataract of the Ganges" was presented Jan. 20, 1873, for the first time in twenty years, with John H. Murray's stud of horses and ponies, and ran until Feb. 18. The cast was:
Ackbar .
Saheb .
Mokarra
Joan . .
Mohajer .
Jack Robinson
Tim Donovan
Sir Barnaby Bagbee
E. A. Pierce
J. A. Meade
G. F. Devere
J. G. Peakes
Julian Cross
Geo. Ketchum
John Brougham
Edwin C. Chapman
Sicoco Frank Chapman
Capt. Mannion . . W. J. Jennings Lieut. Templeton . . . J. A. Mackay Polly Persimmons . Mrs. John Wood Princess Dessa . . . Cora Cassiday
Matali Mrs. Yeamans
Ubra Roberta Norwood
Zamine Bella Golden
Augustin Daly's play "Roughing It" was acted Feb. 18. The cast included John K. Mortimer, John Brougham, Mrs. John Wood, Owen S. Fawcett, A. G. Enos, Louise Valmer, and Annie Yeamans. Sardou's prohibited comedy on American society, called "Uncle Sam," had its first performance on any stage March 17. Mary Cary, Bella Golden, Edwin Chapman, W. J. Le Moyne, Geo. Devere, and Henry Crisp were in the cast. "Under the Gaslight" was revived April 13, and this was Mrs.
»873:
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
609
John Wood's last engagement on the American stage. was:
The cast
Ray TrafEord Demilt . . Windel . . Byke . . . Snorkey Laura Courtland Pearl Courtland Judge Bowling Feachblossom .
. J. G. Peakes Edmund Pierce . A. G. Enos
W. J. Le Moyne . . H. Crisp . . Mary Gary . . Ella Dietz G. F. Ketchum
Mrs. John Wood
Mrs. Van Dam . . Miss C. Bronte Signal Man . . . John W. Jennings
Counsellor J. A. Meade
Bermudas John Burnett
Peanuts Jennie Yeamans
Sam Frank Chapman
Rafferdi Julian Cross
Sergeant Edwin Chapman
Old Judas .... Annie Yeamans
John Lewis Baker died at Philadelphia, Pa., March 22. He was the husband of Alexina Fisher; he was a talented actor, an able manager, and a gentleman.
" Monte Cristo " was produced here April 28, and had this cast :
|
Nortier . |
Chas. Wheatleigh |
Mme. Danglars . |
. Josephine Henry |
||
|
Albert . |
. B. T. Ringgold |
Danglars . . . . |
. . J. B. Studley |
||
|
Fernand . |
, . C. H. Rockwell |
Caderouse . . |
. Chas. Leclercq |
||
|
Morel . |
. John W. Jennings |
Abb6 Faria . . . |
. . Geo. Devere |
||
|
Mercedes |
. . . Lizzie Price |
Old Dantes . . . |
Martin Golden |
||
|
Carconte |
. . Ella Chapman |
Commissary |
. . A. G. Enos |
||
|
Villefort . |
R. d'Orsay Ogden |
Catalan . . . |
. . Mr. Cassiday |
||
|
Edmund Da |
nte |
s |
. . Chas. Fechter |
This was Miss Chapman's and Josephine Henry's first appear- ance at this theatre, and the American debut of Charles Leclercq. "The Corsican Brothers " was acted June 2, and " Ruy Bias," June 9. The season closed June 14, with the farewell appearance of C. Fechter. The next season opened Aug. 19, 1873, under the management of Aug. Daly, and with the following company: Geo. L. Fox, D. H. Harkins (stage manager), Frank Harden- bergh, J. W. Jennings, James H. Taylor, Charles Manley, Charles Leclercq, M. A. Kennedy, C. K. Fox, Cyril Searle, Davenport Bebus (Bebus died in this city, July 11, 1896), W. H. Hamilton, E. Chapman, Howland, A. G. Enos, Katharine Rogers, Marie Gordon, Fanny Hayward, Nina Varian, Mary Carr, Marguerite Chambers, Alice Grey, Adelaide Lennox, Annie Kemp Bowler, Rosa St. Clair (afterwards Mrs. Rosa Leland. She died in Albany, N. Y., March 10, 1889), Lizzie Herbert, Agnes Lee, Cora Cassiday, Clifford, Stewart, Vivian, and Templeton. "A Midsummer Night's Dream " was produced, with this cast:
Frank Hardenbergh . Geo. L. Fox Chas. Leclercq
Hypolita . Puck . , Theseus . Egeus Lysander . Demetrius Philostrate Starveling Titania . VOL. II. — 39
Marguerite Chambers Little May Templeton M. A. Kennedy Cyril Searle D. H. Harkins Jas. H. Taylor . . C. Manley W. H. Hamilton Fanny Hayward
Quince .
Bottom .
Flute . .
Snout . .
Snug . .
Hermia .
Helena .
Oberon . First Fairy
John W. Jennings Chas. K. Fox Adelaide Lennox . . Nina Varian Annie Kemp Bowler . . . Sadie Vivian
6lO A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D873
" The Wandering Jew " was first acted here Sept. 9, with Geo. L. Fox as Goliah, D. H. Harkins as Dagobert, F. Hardenbergh as Rodin, Chas. Leclercq as Jacques, Fanny Hayward as Cephise, and Marie Gordon (Mrs. John T. Raymond) as Blanche. Every evening during the drama Little Fay Templeton appeared in "The Spoiled Child." "Haunted Houses" was done Sept. 23.
Max Maretzek's opera company commenced Oct. 6, with "Po- liuto. " Pauline Lucca and Sig. Enrico Tamberlik were the stars, the latter making his ddbut in New York on this occasion. Sig. Resno sang Calisthenes, and Sig. Hauck, Felix. On Oct. 7 lima di Murska made her American d^but as Amina in "La Sonnambula. " She was announced as "The Hungarian Night- ingale." After her first air all her claims to distinction as a bravura songstress were acknowledged by an outburst of applause which, in spontaneity and enthusiasm, has had few equals on the American stage. Sig. Vizzani reappeared as El vino; anew basso, Sig. Rossi-Galli, made his debut as Count Rodolfo. Di Murska appeared Oct. 9-13 as Lucia di Lammermoor; matinee, Oct. 11, "La Sonnambula;" Tamberlik as Edgardo in "Lucia;" Oct. 16, joint appearance of Pauline Lucca and Di Murska in " The Magic Flute."
lima di Murska died at Munich, Jan. 18, 1889, in extreme pov- erty, and the same day her daughter (about twenty years of age) committed suicide by taking poison. Accounts differ as to the date of her birth — some say 1838, others 1843. She studied under M. and Mme. Marchesi, and made her debut at the Pergola, Florence, in 1862, and after singing with great success at Pesth, Berlin, and Hamburg, obtained an engagement in Vienna, whence she went to London, where she made her debut May 11, 1865, at Her Majesty's Theatre. She carried the musical world by storm, and was commanded to appear before the Prince of Wales at Marl- borough House. When in the height of her professional lustre in Europe, kings, emperors, and princes were at her feet. She created an intense sensation at Monte Carlo by her magnificence and prodigality.
lima di Murska and Pauline Lucca appeared at the Fourteenth Street theatre, this city, Nov. 24, 1873, as Leonora and Azucena in "II Trovatore." Tamberlik was the Manrico. Di Murska sang in concert Sunday evening April 5, 1874. She commenced a sea- son of six nights of Italian opera at the Academy of Music, April 6, same year. On May 7, 1874, she appeared in German opera in "Robert the Devil" at the Stadt Theatre. On May 17 she ap- peared in concert under the management of Herman Grau at Terrace Garden, Fifty-eighth Street, between Third and Lexing- ton avenues, this city. On May 20 she appeared in the second act of "Dinorah," at the Fifth Avenue Theatre (Broadway and
1874]
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
6ii
Twenty-eighth Street), for the benefit of James W. Morrissey. She sang in costume the shadow song. She commenced a series of concerts under the management of D. De Vivo, Sept. 26, 1874, at Steinway Hall.
Di Murska's last appearance in opera was at Booth's Theatre, season of 1878, when the loss of voice was so marked that her friends advised her to retire from the stage before public favor deserted her. She had grown prematurely old and feeble, and her voice had lost its quality; but, acting under the extremely bad advice of injudicious friends, she gave a concert at Chickering Hall, which only demonstrated that she was no longer the brilliant Di Murska of old. Her last visit to this country was in 1888. She was engaged as an instructor by Mrs. Thurber for the Na- tional Conservatory at a salary of $10,000 a year, but was paid a sum of money by the management and " requested " to resign. She starred through the country in the lima di Murska opera company. In February of that year she broke down at Wilkes- barre. Pa., from a cold contracted at Scranton, and from that date her life was despaired of. She came on to New York, where her struggle against poverty was the theme of comment. A subscrip- tion was raised, her jewelry taken out of pawn, a ticket to Europe purchased, and just before the steamer was about to sail, the bal- ance of the subscription (nearly $300) was handed her, and in November, 1888, she left our shores. She was the greatest staccato artist of her day. Her voice was a pure soprano of nearly three octaves in compass, and of remarkable flexibility. Among her favorite parts were Linda di Chamounix, Amina in "La Sonnambula," Astraflammante in "II Flauto Magico," and Senta in "The Flying Dutchman." She was successful also as Dinorah, Isabella, Ophelia, Marguerite de Valois, Gilda, Marta, and Filina.
On Oct. 20 " Under the Gaslight " was produced ; Oct. 27, " Round the Clock ; " and Nov. 10, " A Flash of Lightning." This was the cast :
Mrs. Dewberry, Fred Chauncey
Nervous Passenger Garry Fallon . Jack Ryder Sam Pidge . . Rose .... Mrs. Fallon . Ann .... Daniel Doo .
Marguerite Chambers M. A. Kennedy
Chas. Fox
. G. A. Griffiths
D. H. Harkins
Geo. L. Fox
Minnie Walton
. Annie Deland
Fanny Hayward
Chas. Leclercq
Sis Lewell Agnes Lee
Molly Julia Bell
Bessie .... Mrs. C. M. Walcot Skiffley .... Frank Hardenbergh
Bob Davenport Bebus
Benedetto Cyril Searle
Jerry J. G. Peakes
Patsy Sadie Vivian
Ned A. G. Enos
" Hurapty Dumpty Abroad " was given Nov. 24, and ran nearly three months. George L. Fox appeared Feb. 9, 1874, as Tobias
6l2 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE [1875
Shortcut in "The Spitfire," and in "Humpty Dumpty at School." On Feb. ig a charity benefit for the poor of New York was given, when the following novel features were introduced: G. L. Fox superintended the sale of tickets in the box office, Jessie Vokes had charge of the ticket gate, Frederick and Fawdon Vokes acted as ushers, Victoria Vokes sold bouquets, and Rosina Vokes, pro- grammes. The performances commenced with the second and third acts of " London Assurance, " performed by the company of the Fifth Avenue Theatre; followed by the Martens in Tyrolean trios; "The Belles of the Kitchen," by the Vokes Family; "The Sculptor's Dream," by Betty and Emily Rigl, and coryphees; and the fifth act of "Richard IH.," with G. L. Fox as Richard, and Fred Vokes as Richmond. Fox retired March 14. The Martinetti Family appeared here March i6 in " Harvest Home, or The Four Lovers." The season terminated March 21.
The theatre reopened April 6, with Joseph H. Tooker, manager; Geo. F. Devere, stage manager. The Florences were the stars, in "Eileen Oge." lone Burke, Minnie Conway, Hart Conway, John W. Jennings, Owen S. Fawcett, and James Peakes were in the company. For the week beginning April 13" Eileen Oge" and "The Ticket of Leave Man," were played on alternate nights. " The Ticket of Leave Man " and " Inshavogue " were acted alter- nate evenings, week of April 20. Oliver Doud Byron appeared April 27 in "Donald McKay, the Hero of the Modoc War."
The season closed May 2, and the house remained dark until the Strakosch Italian opera company opened Nov. 4 in "La Traviata," with Mile. Heilbron as Violetta, Sig. Benfratelli as Alfredo, and Giovanni Tagliapietra as Germont. S. Behrens was musical di- rector. Sig. Tagliapietra is at present residing in this city, devoting himself to the cultivation of the voice and preparing pupils for the operatic stage.
The Kiralfy Bros, were the next lessees of this house, who opened it Nov. 23, with "The Black Crook." In the dramatic company were Eliza Weathersby, Kate Fellows, Julia Neuville, Geo. Atkins, Geo. Elliott, Annie Kemp Bowler, Carrie Pierson, Edmund K. Collier, William Street, and Master Martin. The ballet was led by Marie Bonfanti and Eugene Lupo; Kathi and Emilia Kiralfy character dancers; and the specialties were the Lenton Family, acrobats; Kynock and Smith, roller skaters; the Vadais Children, Ulm Sisters, Persian Twin Sisters, and Madrigal Boys. The Kiralfys retired Jan. 2, 1875.
This house was reopened March 29, under the management of Mrs. Julia E. Dunn, with her spectacular drama, " Ahmed." Kathi Lanner arranged the ballets. Guisseppina Morlacchi v^ss, premihe danseuse, with Galetti and Rachel Francesco. William Withers, Jr., was the musical director. Adah Richmond appeared as Ahmed
lSj62
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
613
April 19, but had to withdraw in a few nights, in consequence of illness. Annie Kemp Bowler acted Nymphia. The play was with- drawn April 28, and the house closed to reopen May 15, with "The Twelve Temptations. " Joseph Wheelock, Henrietta Irving, Charles Stanley, and Lillie Andrews were in the company. Several spe- cialty acts were added May 17, including Fay Templeton in songs, "Prof." Nelson and sons, acrobats, and "Prof." Davis and his performing dogs. The play was a failure, and the house closed May 25.
The theatre reopened Aug. 16, 1875, with Pillet and Connolly's production of "Around the World in Eighty Days." The com- pany included Joseph Wheelock, R. D'Orsay Ogden, Louis J. Mestayer, Marion Sackett, Theo. Hamilton, J. J. Wallace, Robert Johnston, May Gallagher, and Hattie Arnold. "Around the World " ran two weeks, and the next managers were Joseph Wheelock, Theo. Hamilton, and Robert Johnston, who com- menced Aug. 30, with E. L. Davenport as the star. " Hamlet " was the initial performance, and was thus cast:
Hamlet E. L. Davenport
Laertes Joseph Wheelock
King Geo. F. MetkifE
Osric Theo. Hamilton
First Gravedigger . . L. J. Mestayer
Second Gravedigger Polonius . . .
Thos. Owens John P. Sutton
Horatio R. D. Ogden
Ghost Robert Johnston
Ophelia Laura Don
This was the first appearance in this city of Laura Don. Sept. r, 2, " Richelieu " was played ; Sept. 3, 4, 9, " Richard HI. ; " Sept. 6, "Macbeth; "Sept. 7, "Hamlet;" Sept. 8, "Othello;" Sept. 10, " The Merchant of Venice " and " Oliver Twist. " Harry Watkins, Sept. 13, in "Pioneer Patriots." Laura Don's right name was Anna Laura Fish. She was the first wife of Thomas B. Mac- Donough. She died at Greenwich, N. Y., Feb. 10, 1886. The drama, "Red and Black, or The Gambler's Life," was done Sept. 20, for the first time in this city, with Joseph Wheelock as Maurice, Angie Montague (first appearance at this theatre) as Pauline. The season terminated Sept. 21.
John P. Sutton died at Brooklyn, N. Y., Jan. 2, 1887, of pneu- monia. His last appearance in this city was in "The Jilt," at the Standard Theatre, a few weeks before his death.
After being closed one month the theatre was reopened Oct. 25, 1875, with "Uncle Tom's Cabin," and closed at the end of one week. After being closed for several months it was reopened Feb. 12, 1876, with Lucille Western as Nancy Sikes in "Oliver Twist," and J. B. Studley as Bill Sikes. "East Lynne " was played Feb. 14; "Child Stealer," Feb. 24; "Uncle Tom's Cabin," Feb. 28. Edward TuUidge's Jewish play, "Ben Israel, or From Under the Curse," was acted March 6 for the first time on any
6 14 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE 1:1876
stage, with J. H. Vinson in the title r61e, Amelia Waugh as Rachel, Jordan as Sir Walter, Harry Dalton as Charles H., and Mrs. W. G. Jones as Meg. Only two performances were given, and the house was again closed.
The next lessees were John F. Poole and Thomas L. Donnelly. The house was considered, in theatrical parlance, a "Jonah," and it was almost impossible to find any responsible manager to take it. Poole & Donnelly leased it with the understanding that if they made money a small percentage of the profits should go to the Erie Railway company, whose offices were in the Gra.nd Opera House building. They made the house popular from the start, by lowering the prices of admission and catering for the west side. They opened Sept. 18, 1876, with the Alice Oates company in " La Fille de Madame Angot ; " Alice Oates was Clairette. The organization consisted of Charles H. Drew, John Howson, Henri Laurent, Jos. H. Jones, A. W. Maflin, H. Amburg, R. H. Nichols, John Merritt, C. W. Decker, Rose Temple, Julia Chap- man, Venie Clancy, the Winner Sisters — Gussie, Annie, and Carrie — Ella and Jennie Caldwell, Susie Parker, Bessie Temple, Tracy White, and Jesse Williams, musical and stage director. " Girofle-Girofla " was sung Sept. 25, 26, and the company closed Sept. 30. "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was presented Oct. 2, with Mr. and Mrs. G. C. Howard as St. Clair and Topsy, George Kunkel as Uncle Tom, and Gracie Wade as Eva. Slavin's Georgia min- strels (colored), donkeys, and blood-hounds were introduced in the drama, which had a run of five weeks. Buffalo Bill commenced for one week, Nov. 6, in a play called after himself. "Uncle Tom " was revived Nov. 13, and ran for three more weeks, when it gave way to Henry Morford's "Crabbed Age," Dec. 4, with Lettie Allen (first appearance in this city) and J. B. Atwater as the stars. In the supporting company were Ida Jeffries, May Gallagher, J. Clarke, J. Morrison, G. W. Reed, George Morris, William Scallan, and Thomas Owens.
"The Black Crook" was seen here Dec. 18, and the principal dancers were Mile. Morlacchi, Cora Adriana, Mile. Antonino and Malvina Evers. The specialty people were the Sawyer Family, bell-ringers ; Kynock and Smith, skaters ; and Crossley and Elder, athletes. " The Black Crook " had this cast :
Rudolph Mark Bates
Hertzog E.J. Mack
Zamiel Geo. Morris
Amina . . . . . Phosa McAllister
Stalacta Lulu Jordan
Dame Barbara . . . Genie Howard
Von Puffengruntz . . Hudson Liston
Greppo Louis Harrison
Count Shirley France
Dragonfin J. C. Frankhn
Rosetta Ida Lee
Carline Therese Wood
Guisseppina Morlacchi made her first appearance in America at Banvard's Museum (now Daly's Theatre), Broadway and Thirtieth
18773 GRAND OPERA HOUSE 615
Street, with De Pol's company in "The Devil's Auction," Oct. 23, 1867. In 1873 she was married to J. B. Omohundro, profes- sionally known as "Texas Jack," who died at Leadville, Col., June 28, 1880. Mark Bates died at Philadelphia, Pa., Jan. 15, 1879. His last appearance in this city was at Niblo's Garden. J. C. Franklin (real name J. C. Cobey) died of consumption in Phila- delphia, Pa., July 25, 1879. His last appearance on any stage was with Tony Denier's travelling pantomime company, January, 1879. Tony Denier was especially kind to him, sending him a remittance of ten dollars every week during his long illness, and the last words Mr. Franklin ever spoke were of affection and gratitude.
"Under the Gaslight" was produced Jan. i, 1877, by Aug. Daly's company. "Divorce" was revived Jan. 8, for two weeks, followed by "Man and Wife," Jan. 22; week of Jan. 29, "Man and Wife" and "Divorce;" Feb. 5, "Fernande;" Feb. 12, "Mon- sieur Alphonse." Charles Fisher, Frank A. Tannehill, J. B. Browne, J. H. Ring, J. B. Ashton, Wash. T. Melville, May Nunez, Amelia Waugh, Polly Booth, and Mrs. W. G. Jones were in the company. In " Under the Gaslight " D. H. Harkins acted Snorkey ; Georgie Drew, Laura Courtland ; and Mary Wells, Old Judas. "The Two Orphans" was produced Feb. 19, and ran for three weeks, with Kate Claxton, as Louise. " Miss Multon " was played, with Clara Morris in the title r61e, March 26, and the two following weeks. "Rose Michel," was given April 16, with the Union Square Theatre company, who occupied the stage for three weeks, excepting May 4 and 5. On May 4 there were afternoon and evening performances for the benefit of Poole & Donnelly. The programme was "The Good For Nothing," the Young Apollo club, balcony scene from "Romeo and Juliet," "St. Patrick's Day Parade," "David Garrick," "A Terrible Fix," sleep-walking scene from "Macbeth," by Bessie Darling; the first, fourth, and last act of "The Two Orphans." For the matinee and evening. May 5, Tony Pastor's company appeared.
"The Princess Royal" was seen for three weeks, commencing May 7; Fanny Davenport, Charles Coghlan, John Brougham, James Lewis, John B. Studley, and others were in the cast. The season closed May 26. The theatre reopened June 4, with John T. Raymond as Col. Mulberry Sellers, supported by his wife, Marie Gordon, and the Park (Abbey's) Theatre company. The Union Square Theatre company commenced June 18 in "Smike," for two weeks, when the theatre closed. It reopened for the sea- son Aug. 13, with Joseph Murphy in "Kerry Gow," for two weeks. He was supported by Annie Ward Tiffany and others. Frank S. Chanfrau appeared here Sept. 2 in "Kit." Geo. Boniface, Geo, Jordan, Jr., H. A. Weaver, Sr., H. B. Phillips, John T.
6l6 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1878
Craven, L. G. Barker, Charles Jordan, G. Harvey, H. Victor, Geo. Boniface, Jr., May Nunez, May Maurice, Nellie Maurice, and H. Weaver, Jr. , were in the support. " Kit " was acted two weeks, and was followed Sept. 17 by " Secret Service, or McParlan the Detective." Mark Twain's and Bret Harte's play, "Ah Sin," was done Sept. 24, with Charles T. Parsloe as the star. "The Danites " was played weeks of Oct. 1-8, by McKee Rankin and wife, Louis Aldrich, Lillie Eldridge, Dora Goldthwaite, and Ada Gilman. "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was revived Oct. 15, and ran for five weeks. Mrs. G. C. Howard was the Topsy.
Lester Wallack appeared here Nov. 19 in "Rosedale," and con- tinued for two weeks. In the company were Lillie Eldridge, Meta Bartlett, Sefton, Vanderman, Weaver, Blaisdell, Frank Mordaunt, Alice Dorrington, J. W. Shannon, Alex. Fitzgerald, Benj. Magin- ley, Frank Tannehill, Sr., and Geo. F. Browne. Regina Dace was seen here Dec. 3, as Julia in "The Hunchback," followed, Dec. 10-17, by F. S. Chanfrau as Salem Scudder in "The Octo- roon." The week of Dec. 23 Chanfrau played "Kit." Dion Boucicault appeared Dec. 30, as Conn in "The Shaughraun," and continued for four weeks. Katharine Rogers, Edward Lamb, Alex. Fitzgerald, Harry Dalton, Ben Maginley, J. A. Kennedy, John Matthews, W. Birch, Henry Victor, Lizzie McCall, Lizzie Kelsey, Mrs, M. A. Farren, and Mrs. Frank Tannehill, were in the cast. Samuel Colville's "Folly" company came Jan. 28, in "The Babes in the Wood, or Who Killed Cock Robin?" The organization was : Marie Williams, Emme Roseau (afterwards Mrs. S. Colville), Willie Edouin, Lena Merville, Rose Temple, Ida Lee, Annie Deacon, Clara Gay, Bessie Temple, William Gill, J. H. Jones, William Forrester, L. de Smith, Eliza Lawson, Rose Leighton, Marion Elmore, Jennie Foster, Lavinia Hagan, Alice Atherton, Kate Everleigh, A. W. Maflin, H. Amberg, Harry Peck, and Wm. Harper.
James C. Williamson and wife (Maggie Moore), were seen here Feb. II, 1878, and stayed two weeks in "Struck Oil" and "The Chinese Question." George Rignold appeared here Feb. 24 in "Henry V." "Evangeline" made a visit March 18, with the fol- lowing company: Geo. S. Knight, Sol Smith Russell, Lizzie Webster, Florence Ellis, Lizzie McCall, Flora Lee, Richard Golden, H. E. Dixey, Harry Josephs, Ed. S. Tarr, Harry Hunter, Charles Rosene, and Geo. Ulmer. Rubens' English opera com- pany, consisting of Louise Oliver, Sallie Reber, Adelaide Randall, Annie Granger Dow (first appearance in New York), Vincent Hogan, Charles Lang, Thomas Whiffen, A. C. Stoddart, Stanley Felch, J. Montgomery, Carrie Burton, J. C. Padgett, William Dietrich, D. Lacy, and Isadore Martinez, with Augusta Sohlke, Adele Paglieri, and the Minzelli Sisters in the ballet, began a
18783
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
617
season April i in "The Bohemian Girl," They continued for two weeks. The Williamsons returned April 15 in "Struck Oil."
John E. McCuUough appeared April 22 in "The Gladiator." The support was : Joseph Wheelock, Harry Langdon, Edwin Rice, Geo. Becks, M. J. Jordan, J, L. Mason, W. Greer, Marie Prescott, Russell Bassett, E. D. Tannehill, Henry Victor, Nellie Mason, and Stella Boniface. "Virginius" was repeated all the week, also April 29, 30; "Othello," May i, 2; "Richard IH.," May 3, 4; "King Lear," May 6; "Jack Cade," May 7 and matinee May 8; "Brutus," May 10; and "Macbeth," May 11. Tony Pastor and company were seen May 13, followed by the Union Square Theatre company, May 20-27, in "A Celebrated Case." "Our Boarding House" was presented June 3. The Hess English opera com- pany came June 10 in "The Chimes of Normandy." Emilie Melville, Zelda Seguin, William Castle, Henry Peakes, Edward Seguin, and H. Warren were in the cast. Bryant's minstrels came June 17 and stayed two weeks. Billy Sweatnam joined the company June 24, making his first appearance in New York. Bartley Campbell's "The Vigilantes" was first acted July i, with Rosa Rand, Estelle Mortimer, Alice Hastings, Louise Wells, Nina Crolius, Louis Aldrich, Wm. H. Leake, Charles Webster, M. C. Daly, and J. B. Ashton in the cast. The house closed July 6.
The next season began Aug. 26, 1878, with Mr. and Mrs. McKee Rankin in "The Danites." They remained two weeks, Louis Aldrich, Louis J. Mestayer, J. O. Sefton, Charles T. Parsloe, Jr., Lin Harris, Bessie Hunter, Emma Marble, and Maggie Arlington in the cast. Annie Pixley was advertised to make her New York debut Sept. 9 in "M'liss," but being en- joined, did not appear, and "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was acted for the week. Joseph K. Emmet Sen., in "Fritz," Sept. 16; Tony Pastor and company, Sept. 23, and the Florences, in " The Mighty Dollar," began two weeks' stay, Sept. 30. The play had this cast :
The Hon. Bardwell Slote Col. Tom Dart . . . . M. C. Daly
W. J. Florence Mrs. Gen'l Gilflory Charlie Brood . . . Frank E. Lamb Mrs. W. J. Florence
Roland Vance . . . Walter Dennis Clara Dart . . . Florence Noble
Arthur Lemaitre . . . Harry Dalton Blanche Mossthorne . Nellie Whiting
Lord Cairgorme . . W. J. Ferguson Libby Ray .... Josephine Baker
Maggie Mitchell began a two weeks' engagement Oct. 14, in "Fanchon." "The Pearl of Savoy" was played Oct. 28. The Williamsons returned Nov. 4 in " Struck Oil " and " The Chinese Question," which continued the bill for three weeks. " Yulie or Kindes-Liebe " was done by the Williamsons Nov. 25. "Our Boarding House " was acted for two weeks, commencing Dec. 2. John E. McCullough returned Dec. 16 in "Coriolanus," Katharine
6l8 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE ti879
Rogers supporting him. This tragedy held the stage for two weeks, followed, Dec. 30, by Boucicault as Conn in "The Shaughraun," for three weeks. In the cast were Ada Dyas, A. C. Dacre, J. A. Kennedy, Vincent Hogan, Joseph A. Wilks, John Matthews, Ben Maginley, Kate Gerard, Helen Houghton, Mrs. Boudinot, Mrs. Sol Smith, and Mrs. Wm. Scallan.
"The Colleen Bawn " was produced Jan. 20, 1879, and ran three weeks. Joaquin Millers's "Mexico" introduced Elizabeth von Stamwitz Feb. 10, for two weeks. This lady played " Leah," Feb. 24, supported by J. B. Studley. John T. Raymond came March 3 as Colonel Sellers, supported by J. M. Hardie, Sol Smith, Frank Tannehill, Laura Don, Courtney Barnes (daughter of Rose Eytinge, and afterwards wife of John T. Raymond), and Mrs. Sol Smith. Fred Williams' and Dr. F. A. Harris' play, "My Son," was produced March 10. Mark Smith was specially engaged for the cast, which also included Edeson, Agnes Elliott, Laura Don, Nellie Boyd, Mrs. Sol Smith, and John T. Raymond. "A Cele- brated Case " returned here March 17. E. K. Collier, Edwin Varrey, James W. Collier, William Thorne, E. L. Tilton, Emily Baker, Emma Markley, Mary Maddern, Emma Skerrett, Laura Bascomb, Bessie Turner, and Eva French were in the cast.
Frank Mayo began an engagement March 24, of two weeks, in "Davy Crockett;" April 7, "The Streets of New York" was played. Edward Lamb, Harold Fosberg, W. H. Lytell, John Clinton Hall, Josephine Laurens, Florence Noble, and Mary Barker were in the cast. Fanny Davenport appeared April 14 in "Pique." Charles Fisher, Edwin Price, Harry Hawk, Geo. F. Devere, John C. Walsh, Minnie Monck, Cora Tanner, Ada Rehan, and Frankie Kemble were in the cast. Helena Modjeska was seen April 28, in " Camille, " for one week, and " East Lynne " was played for one week. Tony Pastor and company commenced the summer season May 12. Boucicault was seen May 19 as Shaun the Post, in "Arrah Na Pogue," John Brougham acting his original char- acter of Col. O' Grady; Katharine Rogers was Fanny Power; EUie Wilton, Arrah; Joseph Wilks, Harry S. Duffield, James Taylor, and Mrs. Sol Smith were also in the cast. "Arrah Na Pogue" was played the following week, and for his closing night. May 31, Mr. Boucicault acted in "Kerry" and "Arrah Na Pogue."
The Park Theatre company appeared June 2 in "Engaged." Agnes Booth, Minnie Palmer, Sydney Cowell, Marie Chester, Mrs. G. H. Gilbert, James Lewis, Joseph Whiting, William F. Owen, Thomas G. Riggs, and William Cullington were in the cast. The season closed June 14. Catherine Marco (daughter of Mark Smith) made her first appearance here at a Sunday even- ing (April 27) concert with Gilmore's band. She reappeared in this city in May, 1888, at Wallack's Theatre (Thirtieth Street and
1879]
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
619
Broadway) with the McCaull opera company in " The Lady or the Tiger?"
This house reopened Aug. 25, 1879, with Joseph Murphy in "Kerry Gow," which had this cast:
Dan O'Hara . .
Serg. Bull . . .
O'Drive . . .
Major Gruff . .
Patrick Drew . .
Raymond Drew . Capt. Basil Sidney
Jos. Murphy
. F. J. Traynor
Luke Martin
H. Rees Davis
A. A. Armstrong
. Will A. Sands
Walter Bronson
Valentine Hay Dennis Doyle . Alice Doyle . Boy Bill . . Officer . . . Norah Drew .
J. Winston Murray . John S. Murphy Charline Weidman . . Belle Dickson R. Honey wood Emmie Wilmot
The Emma Abbott English opera company, consisting of Emma Abbott, Marie Stone, Zelda Seguin, Pauline Marcel, Tom Karl, Walter Temple, A. E. Stoddard, W. H. McDonald, Ellis Ryse, Edward Seguin, William Castle, Caryl Florio, musical director; Arthur Tams, stage manager, were heard Sept. 8, in "Paul and Virginia" — its first production in New York. "The Bohemian Girl" was sung Sept. 15, with Edward Seguin (first appearance here) as Devilshoof, Tom Karl as Thaddeus, and Emma Abbott as Arline. Tony Pastor's company opened Sept. 22, followed, Sept. 29, by the Florences in "The Mighty Dollar," who stayed two weeks. Then came Joseph Jefferson in "Rip Van Winkle," Oct. 13, who also remained two weeks. Fanny Davenport was seen in " Pique " Oct. 27. Sunday evening Patrick S. Gilmore gave a concert, at which Victor Capoul and Cora Ellis appeared. Miss Ellis was announced as sixteen years old, and it was her first ap- pearance in public as a pianist. Nov. 3 " As You Like It " was produced, and Fanny Davenport closed Nov. 8, with "London Assurance" and "Oliver Twist."
Edwin Booth first appeared here Nov. 10 in "Hamlet." Gus. Levick, John Ellsler, L. M. McCormack, Charles Harkinson, Geo. O. Morris, John Daily, John Matthews, Louis Barrett, Kate Meek, Louise Muldener, and Kate Williams were in his company. Matinee, Nov. 15, "Hamlet;" evening, "Ruy Bias" and "Tam- ing of the Shrew," — Booth in both plays. He acted "Hamlet" week of Nov. 17; matinee, Nov. 22, "Ruy Bias;" evening, "Hamlet." Week of Nov. 24, "Othello," Frederic Robinson alternating the r61es of lago and Othello with Mr. Booth as fol- lows: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday matin6e. Booth as lago, Robinson as Othello; the other nights Booth acted Othello to Robinson's lago. On Thanksgiving Day, an extra matinee was given, when Booth acted "Don Caesar," and in the evening, "Othello."
"Richelieu" was played Dec. i, 3, 4, matinee Dec. 6. Marion Booth, niece of Edwin Booth, appeared matin6e Dec. 3 as Kath- arina in "Taming of the Shrew." "The Merchant of Venice"
620 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE QiSSo
was acted Dec. 5, and "The Fool's Revenge," evening Dec. 6. E. A. Sothern came Dec. 8, in " Our American Cousin ; " "The Crushed Tragedian" was done Dec. 15, 16, 17; "David Garrick," Dec. 18, 19, 20. Sothern presented "Dundreary's Brother Sam " and " Dundreary Married and Settled " the week of Dec. 22. Frank Mayo was seen in "The Streets of New York" Dec. 29, and was followed Jan. 5, 1880, by Mr. and Mrs. McKee Rankin in " The Danites," who stayed two weeks. They were sup- ported by William E. Sheridan, Cora Tanner, Isabel Waldron, Emma Marble, Frank Budworth, William B. Murray, Jerry Stevens, and Lin Harris. " The New Magdalen " was presented Jan. 19, with Ada Cavendish as Mercy Merrick. This was con- tinued for one week. Samuel Piercy was the chief support.
A matinee performance, given Jan. 22, was for the benefit of the starving women and children in Ireland. Lady performers only appeared. Celia Logan and Mrs. Cynthia Leonard (mother of Lillian Russell) were managers. The ushers were all ladies, including Lillie Eldridge, Alice Chandos, Mrs. T. Allston Brown, and others.
Ada Cavendish commenced her second and last week on Jan. 26, with " Lady Clancarty," which was repeated the three following evenings and matinees. For her benefit, Jan. 30, she acted Juliet to Samuel Piercy's Romeo. Lester Wallack returned here Feb. 2 in "Rosedale," and continued until Tuesday, Feb. 24, when he acted for the rest of the week in " My Awful Dad. " This he fol- lowed March i with " A Scrap of Paper. " J. K. Emmet began a four weeks' engagement March 8 in "Fritz in Ireland." Maggie Mitchell came April 5, supported by William Harris, in "Fan- chon," and repeated it April 12, 13; "Little Barefoot," April 14, 15; for her benefit, April 16, "Jane Eyre," also April 17. An- other benefit for the Relief Fund for the suffering poor of Ire- land, under the auspices of the various managers of the New York and Brooklyn theatres, took place St. Patrick's day, matinee, March 17. The following is a list of the theatres that gave these matinee entertainments, and the receipts at each house: Grand Opera House, Joseph K. Emmet and company, ^900.50; Theatre Comique, Harrigan and Hart, $604; Wallack's, "How She Loves Him," ;jSS9i.S0; Union Square Theatre, "False Friend," $320.50; Frank Mayo's Olympic, "Ticket of Leave Man," $168.25; Daly's, "The Royal Middy," $165; Madison Square Theatre, "Hazel Kirke," $149.25; Miner's Variety Theatre (Bowery), $124; Stand- ard Theatre, Rice's "Surprise Party," $106; San Francisco min- strels, $60. 50; American Variety Theatre (Aberle's), $41 ; Madison Square Garden, Gilmore's concerts, $1,000; Brooklyn Park Theatre, Mary Anderson, $731, — making the receipts $4,961.25. To this add previous amounts donated to the Fund, individually, $3,405,
i88o]
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
621
and by benefits at various theatres in Boston, Washington, St. Louis, Cleveland, Baltimore, Albany, Newark, and several other minor theatres, amounting to $11,087.98; making a grand total of $19,454.14.
John T. Raymond appeared here April 19, as Ichabod Crane in "Wolfert's Roost," and for the week of April 26, Mr. Raymond acted Col. Sellers.
Samuel Colville's burlesque company, with Emme Roseau, Ella Chapman, Kate Everleigh, Rose Leighton (Mrs. Gus Kerker), Carrie McHenry, R. E. Graham, and others were seen May 3 in "The Magic Slipper." "Ill Treated II Trovatore" was played May 10, with Miss Roseau as Manrico. Tony Pastor and his combination commenced May 17, followed by James A. Heme in " Hearts of Oak," for two weeks. The season closed June 5. The house reopened June 21, with Pat Rooney and his company of variety performers.
Thomas Lester Donnelly died at Babylon, L. I., July 3, 1880. He travelled for several years with the Worrell Sisters, acting female r61es in burlesque. The widow of Mr. Donnelly con- tinued the partnership with Mr. Poole until May 31, 1882. Mrs. Donnelly died March 17, 1888.
The next regular season commenced Aug. 23, 1880, with J. K. Emmet in "Fritz in Ireland." John T. Raymond came Sept. 6 in "The Gilded Age." Ada Cavendish appeared Sept. 13. She played Mercy Merrick in " The New Magdalen " the first week, and for the second week played "The Soul of an Actress," sup- ported by Geo. Boniface. The play had this cast :
Josephine .... Ada Cavendish Gaston Lenoir . . . Hugh Fuller
Domestic Miss Dickens
The Chevalier Maurice de
Crevecoeur . . . . G. C. Boniface Charles de Moncrief, James F. Hagan Prince de Rohan . . . E. A. Eberle
Gerald Fitz Gerald . Harry Harwood Henri de Soubise . . J. H. Miller
Madelon Mrs. Harwood
Mimi Sara Stevens
Countess . . . Mrs. E. A. Eberle Julie Laura Bascomb
Tony Pastor and his company were seen Sept. 27, and were fol- lowed, Oct. 4, for two weeks, by Mr. and Mrs. Geo. S. Knight, in "Otto." H. B. Mahn's opera company were heard Oct. 18, in "Boccaccio," and stayed three weeks. "Fatinitza" was sung Nov. 5, for Jennie Winston's benefit. Herrmann, the magician, came Nov. 8 ; Joseph Jefferson was seen in " Rip Van Winkle " Nov. 15, and continued two weeks; Maggie Mitchell appeared in "Fanchon" week of Nov. 29; Dec. 6 she played "Jane Eyre;" matinee Dec. 8, "Little Barefoot." Annie Pixley began an en- gagement Dec. 13, in "M'liss," supported by John E. McDonough, as Yuba Bill. She remained two weeks, and was followed Dec. 27 by Mr. and Mrs. McKee Rankin, in "The Danites," for two
622 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSSi
weeks. Gus Williams came Jan. lo, 1881, for two weeks, in "Our German Senator." Lester Wallack began a three weeks' engagement Jan. 24, in " Ours. " A performance took place after- noon, Jan. 26, for the benefit of Frank Whittaker.
Lester Wallack continued week Feb. 14, in "Rosedale. " "The Banker's Daughter" came Feb. 21, followed for two weeks by Den. Thompson in "Joshua Whitcomb." Lawrence Barrett acted "Richelieu" March 14, and matinee March 16; "Yorick's Love," March 16, 17, and matinee March 23; " Julius Caesar, " March 18, 19; "Hamlet," March 21, 22; "The Merchant of Venice" and "David Garrick," March 23, 24; "The Lady of Lyons," matinee March 26; " Richard IH.," March 25, 26. J. K. Emmet came here March 28, for three weeks, in "Fritz in Ireland." Joseph Murphy returned April 18 with " Kerry Gow," and April 25, " Shaun Rhue." Fanny Davenport came back with "Pique," commencing May 2; Alice and Louis Harrison gave "Photos " May 9; Tony Pastor and com- pany were seen May 16; "Evangeline," May 23, and the season closed the week of May 30, with "A Child of the State."
The next season began Aug. 15, 1881, with "The Banker's Daughter," which stayed two weeks. Among those in the cast were: Joseph Whiting, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Walcot, W. S. Daboll, Edward L. Tilton, Joseph A. Wilkes, Archie Cowper, Adele Belgarde, and Rose Graham. "My Partner" was the at- traction for two weeks, commencing Aug. 29. Louis Aldrich and Charles T. Parsloe were the stars. Mr. and Mrs. Geo. S. Knight came Sept. 12 for two weeks, it being their first appearance in America since their European tour. " Baron Rudolph " was the play. Julian Magnus, Alfred Becks, Lysander Thompson, James Dunn, Maud Granger, Ida Vernon, Mrs. M. A. Farren, Ida Jeffreys, and Virginia Buchanan were in the cast.
Tony Pastor returned Sept. 26, for one week, with his company, followed by Emma Abbott's English opera company in "Fra Diavolo," Oct. 3; they sang "Martha," Oct. 4; matinee Oct. 5, and evening Oct. 6, "Olivette;" "Lucia, the Bride of Lam- mermoor," Oct. 7; matinee Oct. 8, "Maritana;" evening, "The Bohemian Girl ; " " Olivette " was presented Oct. 10, 1 1, matinee and evening, Oct. 13; "The Bohemian Girl" and last act of "Olivette," Oct. 14; "The Chimes of Normandy" was given matinee Oct. 15; evening, "Faust." John T. Raymond com- menced Oct. 17 in A. C. Gunter's "Fresh, the American." Lotta came Oct. 31 in "Musette." Louis and Alice Harrison, with "Photos," Nov. 7, followed Nov. 14 and 21 by Joseph Jef- ferson in "Rip Van Winkle." Lester Wallack commenced a fortnight's stay Nov. 28, with "Rosedale." Herrmann and his specialty troupe, including the Lorellas, Dec. 12. Annie Pixley came Dec. 19 for two weeks in "M'liss." "The Danicheffs" was
z882j
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
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presented Jan. 2, 1882, with James O'Neill, Walden Ramsay, Owen S. Fawcett, H. F. Daly, and others in the cast.
Mr. and Mrs. McKee Rankin began a two weeks' engagement Jan. 9, in "Forty-nine." "A Child of the State" was done Jan. 23, with James M. Hardie, Geo. Hoey, Mark M. Price, H. Rees Davies, Signorina Majeroni, Emma Pierce, Mrs. J. J. Prior, and Eva Barker in the cast. Mary Anderson, supported by J. B. Studley, William Harris, and others, acted " Romeo and Juliet " Jan. 30, 31. "The Bells" was played matinee Feb. i, with J. B. Studley as Mathias; "Ingomar" was played Feb. i, 2; "Evadne," Feb. 3, 4; "Pygmalion and Galatea," matinee Feb. 4; "The Lady of Lyons," Feb, 6; "Evadne," Feb. 7; "Pygma- lion and Galatea," matinee and evening, Feb. 8; "The Daughter of Roland" was produced Feb. 10, 11; matinee, Feb. 11, Miss Anderson played Pauline in "The Lady of Lyons." Denman Thompson commenced Feb. 13 in "Joshua Whitcomb," and con- tinued two weeks. Maggie Mitchell acted in " Fanchon " Feb. 27, 28, and March i; "Jane Eyre," March 2, 3, 4; "Pearl of Savoy," March 6, 7, and matinee March 8 ; and the rest of the second week, " Pearl of Savoy." The new play, " The Little Savage," was done March 13. L. R. Shewell, and R. Fulton Russell were in the com- pany. "The World " was seen March 20, and stayed two weeks.
A benefit for the Actors' Fund was given matinee, April 3, at the following theatres: Booth's, Abbey's Park Theatre (Twenty- second Street and Broadway), Daly's, Germania (the Star), Har- rigan & Hart's, Miner's Bowery and Eighth Avenue theatres, Madison Square Theatre, San Francisco minstrels. Standard, Tony Pastor's, Union Square, Wallack's, and Grand Opera House, also the Brooklyn theatres. The performance at this house con- sisted of Clara Morris in "Article 47," with A. Salvini, Walden Ramsay, Welsh Edwards, H. A. Weaver, Owen S. Fawcett, G. S. Robinson, Julian Magnus, W. Morse, Clifton Stuart, Robert War- ren, H. W. Montgomery, Thos. E. Morris, W. S. Quigley, John Swinburne, Clara Morris, Virginia Buchanan, Eleanor Carey, Mollie Revel, McKee, and Abbott in the cast. The tickets were $1 each, which admitted to any one of the above-mentioned theatres.
" Our Boarding House " was played here April 3, and stayed one week. It had this cast :
Joseph . Elevator Walter . Waltham Clarence Dr. Shouter Gregarious Mrs. Dalrymple
Leonard Grover . W. H. Lytell . J. C. Burrows Geo. W. Farren C. B. Burlap, Jr. J. M. Burke Leonard Grover, Jr. Virginia Buchanan
Annie .... Blanche Mortimer
Betty Nannie Egberts
Jack Julius Kahn
Maria .... Mrs. Fred Williams
Beatrice Mattie Earle
Florence .... Fanny Gonzales Violet Helen Ransom
624 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1883
Joseph Murphy, with "Kerry Gow," came the week of April 10, and was followed, April 17, by J. K. Emmet in "Fritz in Ireland" for three weeks. Fanny Davenport was seen as Lady Teazle in "The School for Scandal," May 8, 9; matinde, May 10, for the benefit of the Actors' Fund. " Leah " was played May 10, ii ; "London Assurance" and "Oliver Twist," May 12; matinee. May 13, "Lady of Lyons," and in the evening the bill of May 12 was repeated. Geo. Clarke, Charles Fisher, and Frederick Paulding were in Miss Davenport's company. Tony Pastor com- menced May 15, followed by Willie Edouin's company in "Dreams, or Bink's Photograph Gallery," from May 22 to May 31, when the season closed, and John F. Poole retired from the management.
The house was reopened Aug. 28, 1882, by Henry E. Abbey as manager, W. W. Tillotson, acting manager, with Shook & Collier's travelling company for two weeks, in "The Lights o' London." Clara Morris appeared Sept. ii in "Miss Multon;" Sept. 13 the Bijou Theatre opera company sang "Olivette," with Selina Dolaro as the heroine. "The World" began Sept. 18 and stayed for two weeks. The Strakosch English opera company appeared Oct. 2 in "The Bohemian Girl," with Katherine von Arnhem (first ap- pearance in English opera) as Arline, Zelda Seguin as the Queen, Perugini as Thaddeus, Geo. Sweet as Devilshoof, and Arthur Bowers as Florestein.
Lawrence P. Barrett appeared Oct. 9 in "Yorick's Love;" "Marble Heart," matinde, Oct. 11; evening, Oct. 11, "Ham- let ;" Oct. 12, "Richelieu;" Oct. 13, "The Merchant of Venice" and "David Garrick;" Oct. 14, "Richelieu." Gus Williams came Oct. 16, for one week, in "John Mishler." The Florences returned here Oct. 23 in "The Ticket of Leave Man," which kept the stage two weeks, and was followed, Nov. 13, by "The Mighty Dollar." "Patience" was sung matinee, Nov. 15, by the Bijou Theatre opera company. Joseph Jefferson returned Nov. 20, for two weeks in "Rip Van Winkle." Lotta was seen in "Zip," Dec. 4; matinee, Dec. 6, "The Sorcerer," by the Bijou company. Matinde, Dec. 7, was for the benefit of the B. P. O. Elks. " Musette " was produced by Lotta Dec. 1 1, for one week. Matinee, Dec. 13, "The Sorcerer," by Bijou company. Dec. 18, for two weeks, Lotta, in " The Little Detective ; " matinee, Dec. 20, " The Sorcerer. "
The Florences were seen here Jan. i, 1883, in "The Mighty Dollar," which was repeated Jan. 2, 3, 6; matinees, Jan. i and 3, "Dombey and Son;" evening, Jan. 4, 5, "The Ticket of Leave Man." Clara Morris was seen here Jan. 8, in "The New Mag- dalen." John T. Raymond began a two weeks' engagement, Jan. 15, with "In Paradise."
I883D
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
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Annie Pixley appeared Jan. 29 in "M'liss," and continued a second week, producing Fred Marsden's new play, "Zara." Den- man Thompson returned Feb. 12, in "Joshua Whitcomb." McKee Rankin followed Feb. 19, in "Forty-nine." "The Streets of New York" was revived Feb, 26, with Frank Mayo as Badger. Lawrence P. Barrett acted March 5, 8, " Richelieu ; " March 6, " Don Caesar de Bazan ; " March 7, " Hamlet ; " March 9, and matinee March 10, "Yorick's Love;" and March 10, "Julius Csesar. " Edwin F. Thome and Nat Goodwin commenced March 12, in "The Black Flag." "The Corsican Brothers" followed March 19, with F. C. Bangs as the twin brothers. "The Romany Rye" came March 26, and had this cast:
Jack Heme Joe Heckett Mrs. Curley Dimily Lee Sol Lee . . Boss Knivett Edward Marsden Goliath Lee . . Kiomi Lee >
Mother Shipton |
Robert B. Mantell . F. F. Mackay . Angle Griffiths . Maggie Dean Frank Dean Chas. W. Butler Randolph Murray F. A. Tannehill
. Octavia Allen
Gertie Heckett Phillip Royston Ginger Bill . Laura Lee . Mrs. Knivett Jabez Duck Scragger . David . . Keziah . . Adrian . .
. . Fannie Reeves
Chas. Rockwell
. Winston Murray
Gussie de Forrest
Mrs. F. A. Tannehill
L. T. Lovering
. O. B. Collins
. . P. Nannary
. . Bertha Foy
. Marie Sheldon
Mary Anderson appeared April 2, 10, 14, in " Romeo and Juliet; " "TheDaughterof Roland," April II, 12; " Pygmalion and Galatea," April 13, and matinee April 14. J. B. Studley and Robert L. Downing were in her company. A matinee benefit, April 12, was for the Actors' Fund. Mary Anderson acted Parthenia in " Ingo- Performances were also given this afternoon in aid of this
mar.
fund, as follows : Bijou Theatre, Neil Burgess, in " Vim ; " Casino, Maurice Grau company; Cosmopolitan, "White Slave;" Aug. Daly's, " Seven Twenty-eight ; " Mount Morris, "Only a Farmer's Daughter;" Madison Square, "A Russian Honeymoon;" Niblo's, John E. McCuUough's company; Standard, Salsbury's Trouba- dours, "Greenroom Fun;" San Francisco Minstrel Hall, Willie Edouin, "Bunch of Keys;" Star, Boucicault, in "The Shau- ghraun;" Thalia, German company; Union Square, Charles Wyndham company, in "Brighton;" Windsor, "The Profes- sor;" Bamum's Circus, Theatre Comique, and Tony Pastor's; also Brooklyn Theatre, and houses in various other cities. Mary Anderson continued a third week as follows: "Love," April 16; "The Hunchback," April 17, 18; "Pygmalion and Galatea," matinee April 18; "The Lady of Lyons," April 19; "Ingomar," April 20, matinee April 21; "Fazio," evening, April 21. Louis Aldrich and Charles T. Parsloe came in "My Partner," April 23, for one week. Maggie Mitchell returned in " Fanchon," April 30,
VOL. II. — 40
626 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1884
May I, 2, and matinee May 5; "Lorle," matinee May 2, even- ings May 3, 4; "Little Barefoot," May 5; "Jane Eyre," May 7, 8, matinee May 9; "The Little Savage," May 10, and matinee May 12; "Fanchon," May 11 ; "The Pearl of Savoy," May 12.
The Kiralfy Bros, produced "The Black Crook" May 14, with De Rosa and Mile. Asteggranio as premieres danseuses, — the Gar- nella Bros., the Martens Family, and Duncan, ventriloquist, as specialty performers. Clara Morris appeared May 21, in "Article 47 ; " matinee. May 23, Annie Ward Tiffany acted Lady Isabel in "East Lynne." Clara Morris closed matinee. May 26. In the evening a benefit for the attaches of the house was given, and Annie Ward Tiffany acted in "The Child Stealer." Mestayer's Tourists came May 28, with Mr. and Mrs. Geo. S. Knight and Will Bray in the company. Callender's minstrels were heard weeks of June 4-1 1, and the house closed June 16. Manager Abbey introduced a novel entertainment June 25, 26, by the Continental Guards of New Orleans, La., in a series of tableaux representing the principal scenes and incidents of the War of the Revolution, from the Battle of Lexington, in 1775, to the sur- render of Cornwallis, in 1781.
The regular season commenced Aug. 25, 1883, with "The Lights o' London;" Sept. 3, "Her Atonement;" Sept. 10, "Greenroom Fun;" Sept. 17-24, "The Silver King;" Oct. i, the Florences in "Facts, or His Little Hatchet," by Geo. Jessop and William Gill; Oct. 8, the Florences in "Eileen Oge;" Oct. 15, the Flor- ences in "The Mighty Dollar;" Oct. 17, "Dombey and Son." Annie Pixley came Oct. 22 in "Zara," and Oct. 29, "M'liss;" Nov. s, "The Silver King;" Nov. 12, " The White Slave ; " Nov. 19, Janauschek in " Bleak House ; " Nov. 20, " Mary Stuart ; " matinee Nov. 21, "Mother and Son;" evening, Nov. 21, "Marie Antoinette;" Nov. 22, "Mariana," Nov. 23, "Zillah, the Hebrew Mother;" matinee, Nov. 24, "Mary Stuart." Janauschek closed Nov. 24, with "BJeak House."
Gus Williams, with "One of the Finest," was seen week of Nov. 26. Roland Reed and "Cheek" the week Dec. 3; Kate Claxton in "The Two Orphans," week Dec. 10; William J. Scanlan in "Friend and Foe," Dec. 17. The Madison Square Theatre travelling company commenced Dec. 24, in "Hazel Kirke."
L. P. Barrett and company, with Louis James as leading man, began Jan. 7, 1884, for two weeks, in "Francesca da Rimini." N. C. Goodwin and wife, Jan. 21, in "Those Bells" and "Hob- bies;" Jan. 28, Sol Smith Russell was seen as Tom Dilloway, in "Edgewood Folks;" Feb. 4, "Esmeralda, or Young Folks' Ways;" Feb. II, " Stormbeaten ; " Feb. 18, "The Rajah" was played, with this cast :
I884II
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
627
The Rajah H. M. Pitt
Gladys Rillie Deaves
Richard J. O. Barrows
Buttons Geo. Bruening
Emilia Jekyl . . . Marion Elmore
Cragin Dominick Murray
Mrs. Pringle DoUie Pike
Joseph Jekyl ... E. M. Holland Job Jekyl Hal. Warren
John T. Raymond appeared Feb. 25, for one week, in "For Con- gress;" Robson and Crane came March 3, in "Sharps and Flats," Robson as Cutler Sharp, W. H. Crane as Dullstone Flat. These comedians continued March 10 in "Our Boarding House," Robson as Gillypod, Crane as Elevator. James A. Heme was seen March 17 in "Hearts of Oak." March 24 the Madison Square Theatre company presented "Young Mrs. Winthrop," with Ada Dyas, Edward J. Buckley, William H. Gillette, Enid Leslie, Fannie Reeves, Edwin Arden, Jean Clara Walters and Frank Colfax in the cast. "Pique" was played the week March 31, with Agnes Booth as Mabel Renfrew. " In the Ranks " was seen April 7 ; " The Silver King," April 14; M. B. Curtis in "Samuel of Posen," April 21; Joseph Murphy in "Kerry Gow," April 28; "Siberia," May S; and Lester Wallack's company, May 12, in "Lady Clare." Osmond Tearle, Charles Glenney, Buckstone, Harry Gwynette, Effie Germon, Rose Coghlan, Livingston, Mrs. Sol Smith, and Blais- dell were in the cast. Tony Pastor and combination came May 19; Barry and Fay in "Irish Aristocracy," May 26; "The Stran- glers of Paris," June 2, and the season closed June 7.
The house reopened Aug. 16, 1884, with "The White Slave;" Aug. 2S,"Stormbeaten;" Sept. i, "Separation;" Sept. 8, "The Silver King," with Fred de Belleville, Eleanor Carey, and John W. Jennings in the cast; Sept. 15, "Pulse^ of New York," with Geo. Clarke, Gerald Eyre, Frank Rose, F. C. Cramer, L. F. Massen, Joseph Frankau, Caroline Hill (Mrs. Herbert Kelcey), and Helen Ottolengui in the company. On Sept. 22, " Hoop of Gold " was seen for the first time in this city ; Sept. 29, Kate Claxton in "Sea of Ice;" Oct. 6, "Hazel Kirke," with Charles W. Couldock, De Wolf Hopper, William Morris, Chas. Edmonds, Mrs. Edward L. Davenport, and Sydney Cowell in the principal r61es. "Her Atonement" was seen Oct. 13, and Oliver Doud Byron was seen in " Across the Continent " Oct. 20.
R. E. J. Miles and Barton's Bijou opera company were heard Oct. 27 in "Orpheus and Eurydice;" Marie Vanoni, Adelaide Langdon, Daisy Murdoch, Lillie Alliston, Harry Pepper, Harry Davenport, Belle Urquhart, Jennie McNulty, Louis de Lange, and Henry Leoni were in the company. "Moths" was given week of Nov. 3 by Wallack's Theatre company; Nov. 10, "A Bunch of Keys," by Willie Edouin and Frank Sanger's company; "Shadows of a Great City" came Nov. 17. A benefit for the B. P. O. Elks occurred matinee Nov. 17, and
628 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D885
the attractions were : Henry Irving and company in " Louis XI. ; " Union Square Theatre company in "French Flats," "Shadows of a Great City ; " Oliver Doud Byron in " Hero ; " Thompson's' opera company in "The Beggar Student," "Bunch of Keys;" Evans and Hoey in "A Parlor Match;" "Her Atonement" company, Harry E. Dixey, Kate Davis, Harrigan and Hart, Hilda Thomas, and the Olympic quartet. " Called Back " was played the week of Nov. 24, with Robert Mantell, W. J. Ferguson, C. P. Flockton, Bessie Cameron, and others in the cast. Harrison and Gourlay came Dec. i, with " Skipped by the Light of the Moon ; " Dec. 8, Minnie Maddern in "Caprice;" Dec. 15, John T. Raymond in "For Congress." Raymond continued Dec. 22, 23, 24, in "In Paradise;" matinee, Dec. 25, and the rest of the week as Colonel Mulberry Sellers. " Called Back " returned Dec. 29. Jacques Kruger and company appeared in "Dreams," Jan. 5, 1885; Lotta was seen, Jan. 12, in "Mam'zelle Nitouche ; " Jan. 19, "Michael Strogoff " came ; Jan. 26 N. C. Goodwin played in " Confusion " and "Those Bells, or Mathias Irving;" Feb. 2 Gus Williams re- turned in "Capt. Mishler;" Feb. 9, Salsbury Troubadours were seen in "Three of a Kind." Matinde, Feb. 12, Nelse Waldron, the theatrical machinist, took a benefit.
Maggie Mitchell appeared as Fanchon Feb. 16, 17, 18, and in " Little Barefoot " the rest of the week. Robson and Crane did "Forbidden Fruit," Feb. 23, 24, 25, and matinees Feb. 23, 25: Robson as Cato Dave, Crane as Sergeant Buster. They fin- ished the week with "The Cherubs." Louis Aldrich came in "My Partner," March 2, followed, March 9, by Fanny Davenport in " Fedora," with Harry Lee as leading man ; Joseph Murphy came March 16, with "Shaun Rhue;" "May Blossom," March 23, by the Madison Square Theatre travelling company, consisting of Georgia Cayvan, Joseph Wheelock, Benj. Maginley, Forrest Rob- inson, W. H. Crompton, Nick Long, Bijou Fernandez, and others. March 30, "Shadows of a Great City;" April 6, Hanlon's "Fan- tasma" was seen; April 13, "A Rag Baby;" April 20, "One Touch of Nature" and "Three Wives to One Husband" were done; April 27 Evans & Hoey's company came, in "A Parlor Match."
"Siberia" was played May 4, followed. May 11, by "The Private Secretary;" May 18, " Victor Durand ; " May 25, " Skipped by the Light of the Moon. " Rose Coghlan opened June i in " Our Joan," with this cast :
Joan Travenna Martin Travenna Arthur Meredith, Captain Brandon .
. . Rose Coghlan Harry Edwards
Nelson Wheatcroft Archie Cowper
George Travenna Joe Pengelly . . Alice Pengelly Lady Ruth Burnay
. George Paxton
Dan Leeson
. Helen Russell
Florence Worth
Ada Gray began a two weeks' engagement June 8, in "East Lynne," and the season terminated June 20.
X8863
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
629
The house reopened Aug. 24, with "A Brave Woman," played by James M. Hardie & Sara von Leer's company, followed by Shook & Collier's " Stormbeaten " company, Aug. 31; "A Pris- oner for Life "was seen Sept. 7; "Michael Strogoff," Sept. 14; "Shadows of a Great City," Sept. 21; "A Parlor Match," Sept. 28; "Alone in London," Oct. 5. Mme. Janish appeared in "Anselma" Oct. 12; Annie Pixley was seen in "M'liss," Oct. ig, and in Fred Marsden's comedy drama, "Eily," Oct. 26. Fanny Davenport played in "Fedora," with Robert B. Mantell as leading man, Nov. 2 ; " A Bunch of Keys " was done Nov. 9. Maggie Mitchell in "Jane Eyre," Nov. 16, 17, matinee Nov. 18. Maggie Mitchell in "Lorle, or the Artist's Dream," Nov. 18, 19, and closed with "Fanchon," Nov. 20, matinee, and evening Nov. 21. "May Blossom " was presented week of Nov. 23, with Georgia Cayvan as the heroine. Kate Claxton came with "The Two Orphans," Nov. 30; Marie Aim6e, in "Mam'zelle," Dec. 7; "Her Atonement" was seen Dec. 14; Johnson & Slavin's minstrels, Dec. 21; Gus Williams in "Oh, What a Night!" Dec. 28.
T. Henry French became lessee and manager Nov. 23. Jan. 4, 1886, Janauschek appeared in "Zillah." Sol Smith Russell was seen in "Felix McCusick," Jan. 11; N. C. Goodwin, Jr., played in "The Skating Rink" Jan. 18; W. H. Gillette Jan. 25 in "The Private Secretary." "The Wages of Sin," was offered Feb. i; Feb. 8 was the return of N. C. Goodwin in "The Skating Rink." Robert Eraser took a benefit afternoon Feb. 11; Salsbury's Trou- badours came in "Three of a Kind" Feb. 15; James O'Neill, in "Monte Cristo," appeared Feb. 22. "A Rag Baby" was done March i ; "Alone in London, or Woman Against the World," with Cora Tanner as the star, was seen March 8 ; Den. Thompson, in "Joshua Whitcomb," March 15; "Over the Garden Wall," by Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Knight, March 22; Lotta came in "Nitouche" March 29 ; matinee, April 3, she was seen as Musette ; April S. 6, 7, in "The Little Detective;" April 8, 9, 10, her new play, "Odd Tricks," by Chas. A. Doremus, was produced, with this cast:
Tom Chuckster . . C. Dr. Montague Shelton . Lothario Fitz Eustace . Uncle Peterhill . . P Aunt Jemimah Popp
H. Bradshaw . Mr. Hatch . Mr. Parker A. Anderson Miss Turner
Bertie Esmond
Emma Hinckley
Laura Laurens Joe Barnard Tramp . . Mrs. Bernard Lil Bernard Terry . .
. . . . Lotta Bertie Coote . Mr. Mahoney Adelaide Eaton . Elsie Gerome . Herbert Astey
James C. Duff's opera company were heard April 12, in "The Mikado, " which had this cast :
Nanki Poo . . . Harry S. Hilliard Yum Yum .... Vernona Jarbeau Petti Sing .... Sallie Williams
Ko Ko J. H. Ryley
Poo Bah Thos. WhifEen
The Mikado .... Gus F. Hall
Katisha Zelda Seguin
Pish Tush .... Frances Gaillard Peep Bo Carrie Tutein
630 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D886
Effie Ellsler appeared April 19, in "Woman Against Woman." Robson and Crane played the Two Dromios in " The Comedy of Errors," for two weeks, commencing April 26. Joseph Murphy did " Kerry Gow " week May 10. Then came "The Black Crook," by the Kiralfy Bros, May 17. Lester Wallack and company acted May 24, 25, and matinee and evening May 26, in " Home " and "A Happy Pair; " May 27, 28, and matinee and evening May 29, "She Stoops to Conquer." This was the last time Lester Wal- lack ever appeared on the stage as an actor. The Madison Square Theatre company did "The Private Secretary," week of May 31; " The Streets of New York " was produced by Geo. C. Boniface June 7; Schonberg's play, "Not One Word," was seen June 14, when Katherine Ware made her d^but ; " The Sea of Ice " was played June 21, with Rose Lisle and Frederick Paulding as the stars. Pat Rooney and his variety company closed the season week of June 28.
The house reopened Aug. 23, with Johnson & Slavin's min- strels; F. B. Warde, with his travelling company, acted "Vir- ginius " Aug. 30-Sept. 3; "Julius Caesar," Aug. 31; "Ingomar," evening Sept. i ; "Richelieu," "Damon andPythias," Sept. 2;"The Lady of Lyons," matinee Sept. 4; evening Sept. 4 "Richard III. ;" "A Rag Baby" returned Sept. 6; "Sieba," by the Kiralfy Bros, company, Sept. 13; James Heme, in his drama "The Minute Man," Sept. 20; "Hoodman Blind," Sept. 27. The company was: Aug. Cook, Sidney Howard, Geo. Conway, Geo. J. Fleming, Matt. B. Snyder, Conway Carpenter, Norman Campbell, W. J. Leonard, Geo. McClellan, Sydney Armstrong, Mrs. Jennie Elberts, Bessie Bernard, Rose Snyder, Ollie Stoddard, and Little Amy. Tony Pastor and company commenced Oct. 4, when Steff and Trepp, Viennese grotesque comedians, made their American debut. Oct. II "A Parlor Match" came for one week. Conreid's opera com- pany produced "The Gypsy Baron" Oct. 18; Laura Bellini, Lydia O'Neil, Jacques Kruger, and Gus Hall were in the cast. Gen- evieve Ward acted " Forget Me Not " Oct. 25, 26, 27, 28.
The Actors' Fund took a benefit matinee Oct. 29; the attrac- tion was : " Forgiven " (second act), by Frederic Bryton and com- pany, Conreid opera company in the march from "The Gypsy Baron," N. C. Goodwin and Maud Harrison in the third act of "The Hunchback," Genevieve Ward and members of her com- pany in "Nance Oldfield; " May Fortescue and her company acted "Moths," Dockstader's minstrels gave a short programme, and Wilson Barrett appeared in his one-act play, "Chatterton," sup- ported by Miss Eastlake, George Barrett, the Misses Belmore and Clarke. Miss Ward and W. H. Vernon acted in "The Queen's Favorite" evenings Oct. 29, 30; Gus Williams returned Nov. i in "Oh, What a Night!" Nov. 8 "The Silver King" came;
1887: GRAND OPERA HOUSE 63 1
Nov. 15, "A Bunch of Keys;" Conreid's opera company re- turned in " The Gypsy Baron " Nov. 22 ; " Shadows of a Great City " was seen Nov. 29 ; Kate Claxton and Sara Jewett in " The Two Orphans," Dec. 6; "Around the World in Eighty Days," Dec. 13; Oliver Doud Byron in "The Inside Track," Dec. 20; Annie Pixley, with "M'liss," Dec. 27; "Saints and Sinners," by the Madison Square Theatre company, Jan. 3, 1887; Thatcher, Primrose & West's minstrels were heard Jan. 10; Lillian Olcott was seen in "Theodora" Jan. 17; Joseph Haworth and "Hoodman Blind," Jan. 24; "Alone in London," Jan. 31; Mme. Janauschek acted "Bleak House" Feb. 7-10, matinde Feb. 12; "Mary Stuart," Feb. 8-1 1; "Mother and Son," matinee Feb. 9; "Marie Antoinette," evening Feb. 9; "Macbeth," evening Feb. 12; "Lights o' London " was played Feb. 14; James O'Neill came, in "Monte Cristo," Feb. 21; "A Tin Soldier," Feb. 28; "The Ratcatcher " was seen March 7 ; Wm. J. Scanlan, in " Shane na Lawn," March 14; "The Wages of Sin," March 21 ; Fanny Daven- port acted "Fedora" March 28, 31, matinees March 30, April 2; "The Lady of Lyons," March 29; "School for Scandal," April i; evening, April 2, "London Assurance" and "Oliver Twist." Frederic Bryton produced "Forgiven" April 4; "Held by the Enemy" was played April 11; "Hoodman Blind," April 18; Rice's company came, in "Evangeline," April 25, with Vernona Jarbeau and Geo. Thorne in the cast ; Joseph Jefferson played " Rip Van Winkle" week May 2; Prof. Herrmann, magician, May 9. Joseph Murphy acted "The Kerry Gow," May 16, 17, and matinee May 18. "The Donagh," May 18, 19, 20, and matinee and even- ing May 21 ; "The Black Crook " returned May 23; Rose Coghlan was seen in "Masks and Faces" May 30, supported by Osmond Tearle; "The Streets of New York" was done June 6, with Geo. C. Boniface and his daughter Stella in the leading parts; Edwin Mayo appeared June 13 in "Davy Crockett;" C. W. Couldock, June 20, in "Hazel Kirke;" Henry Chanfrau, June 27, as "Kit, the Arkansas Traveller ; " and with this the season closed.
The house reopened Aug. 22, 1887, with Newton Beers, in "Lost in London;" "Jim the Penman " was played by the Madi- son Square Theatre company, Aug. 29. Robert Downing was seen in "Spartacus," week Sept. 5; Marie Wainwright and Louis James acted "Virginius," Sept. 12, 16, 17; " Ingomar," Sept. 13; "Hamlet," Sept. 15; "Gretchen," matinee, Sept. 17. "The Lights o" London" returned Sept. 19; "Harbor Lights" began Sept. 26. and stayed a fortnight; Mr. and Mrs. McKee Rankin were seen in "The Golden Giant" Oct. 10; Clara Morris, in "Article 47," Oct. 17, 18; "New Magdalen," Oct. 19; "Ren^e" (Clinton Stuart's version of "Le Martyre"), for the first time m this city, Oct. 20, 21; and "Alixe," matinee and evening, Oct.
632 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1888
22. Thatcher, Primrose & West's minstrels returned Oct. 24; "A Bunch of Keys," Oct. 31; Annie Pixley, in "The Deacon's Daughter," Nov. 7; Fred Warde acted "Virginius" Nov. 14; "Galba," Nov. 15; "Virginius," matinee Nov. 16; evening Nov. 16, and matinee Nov. 19, "Gaston Cadol;" evening Nov. 19, "Richard IH. ;" "A Parlor Match" came back Nov. 21; and "Held by the Enemy," Nov. 28.
One of the largest audiences that ever gathered inside the Grand Opera House assembled the afternoon of Dec. i, for the Actors' Fund benefit. The performance began at one o'clock, and for four hours the audience was delighted with one of the most noteworthy performances ever given in this city. Among those who took part were Henry Irving and his company, Ed. Harrigan's com- pany, Joseph Jefferson, Mrs. John Drew, Mrs. J. Brown Potter, and numerous others. The receipts amounted to $3,156.75, the largest sum ever received up to this date by the Fund at a benefit.
Joseph Jefferson and "Rip Van Winkle" came here the week Dec. 5; Mrs. Langtry followed Dec. 12, in "As In a Looking Glass," for two weeks; Nat Goodwin did "Turned Up" and "Lend Me Five Shillings," Dec. 26. Gus Williams appeared Jan. 2, 1888, in "Keppler's Fortune." Jan. 9, the Florences began a week's stay, and acted in "Husband Hunting," "Dombey and Son," "The Mighty Dollar," and "The Flirt." Kate Claxton returned Jan. 16, in "The Two Orphans;" Jan. 23 Oliver Doud Byron came, in " The Inside Track ; " Jan. 30, Fanny Davenport in "Fedora," for the week, except matinee Feb. i, when "The Lady of Lyons " was acted ; Feb. 6 Richard Mansfield played " Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," all the week, except matinee and night, Feb. 8, when "A Parisian Romance" was presented. Cora Tanner and "Alone in London" were seen week of Feb. 13; James O'Neill and "Monte Cristo" came Feb. 20; Frank Mayo and "Royal Guards," Feb. 27; "Harbor Lights," March 5; W. J. Scanlan in "Shane na Lawn," March 12; "Hoodman Blind," March 19, with Fred de Belleville and Viola Allen in the leading r61es ; March 26, "Evangeline;" April 2, Minnie Palmer, in "My Sweetheart;" April 9, Thatcher, Primrose & West's minstrels; April 16, James C. Duff's Comic opera company, in "Dorothy." In the cast, be- sides Lillian Russell, were Eugene Oudin, William Hamilton, Harry Paulton, and Agnes Stone. Clara Morris appeared April
23, and acted "Ren6e de Moray" all the week, except matinee April 25, when the company played "Our Regiment;" N. C. Goodwin returned with "Turned Up" and "Lend Me Five Shil- lings," week of April 30; "A Hole in the Ground" was seen May 7; Herrmann, the magician, came May 14; Kiralfys' spectacle, "Dolores," May 21; Robert B. Mantell in "Monbars," May 28; and the season closed June 2. A summer term commenced June
li8S2
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
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4, under the management of W. H. Mathews, with Mrs. J. Brown Potter as the attraction. "The Lady of Lyons" was acted June 4,
5, and matinee, June 6, with this cast :
Claude Melnotte . . . Kyrle Bellew Mons. Deschappelles . Geo. Conway
Pauline Mrs. Potter
Madam Deschappelles . Alice Brooks Widow Melnotte . Minnie Monck Colonel Damas . . . J. £. Kellerd
"Romeo and Juliet" was played June 7 and matinee June 9, and had this cast:
Beauseant Lewis Baker
Glavis Hart Conway
Gaspard C. Fredericks
Notary N. Harris
Landlord J. Martin
Romeo Kyrle Bellew
Mercutio Hart Conway
Benvolio Lewis Baker
Tybalt Frank Lander
Friar Laurence . . . J. E. Kellerd
Friar John R. J. Reynolds
Capulet Harry Allen
Paris Chas. Fredericks
Balthasar Harry Adams
Peter Jacques Martin
Apothecary Hugh Moss
Lady Capulet .... Alice Brooks
Nurse Minnie Monck
Juliet Mrs. Potter
" Loyal Love " was played June 8 and evening June 9. " Called Back" was seen June 11, with Fred de Belleville, W. J. Ferguson, C. P. Flockton, May Wilkes, T. G. Patton, Robert Eraser, H. W. Montgomery, Harriet Ford, and Carrie Elberts in the cast.
"The Banker's Daughter" was played June 18, with Herbert Kelcey, Frazer Coulter, Robert Hilliard, W. J. Ferguson, B. T. Ringgold, John W. Jennings, Geo. Woodward, Georgia Cayvan, and Ethel Greybrooke in the principal parts.
"Uncle Tom's Cabin" was offered matinees June 20, 23, and the week of June 25.
The next season opened Saturday night, Aug. 18, 1888, with "The World Against Her," cast thus:
Mr. Danvers . . . W. J. Constantine Harold Vernon . . Payson Mackaye Simon Clegg .... Palmer Collins Annie Madge's child . . Daisy Luby Sally Millet Alice Leigh
Madge Carlton Jenny Clegg . Lucy Danvers Liz Markland . Gilbert Blair . James Carlton .
, . Kate Claxton Judith Berrolde , . Leslie Tillson Kate M. Prothero . C. A. Stevenson . E. H. Vanderfelt
"Jim the Penman," by the Madison Square Theatre company, opened Aug. 27; "A Dark Secret" was seen Sept. 3, and stayed two weeks; "Lights o' London" came Sept. 17; "The Silver King," Sept. 24, Charles Haswin as Wilfred Denver. Wilton Lackaye, Raymond Holmes, M. B. Snyder, Harry Gwynette, M. B. Pike, Harry Pierson, Helen Cooper Parr, Grace Thorne Coulter, and Rose Snyder were also in the cast. Oct. i Clara Morris acted "Renge de Moray," which she repeated Oct. 2, 3, and matinee and night Oct. 6; Oct. 4, "Article 47;" Oct. 5, "New Magdalen." "The Lady of Lyons" was given matinee Oct. 3, with Mattie Earle as Pauline. F. H. Tyler made his
634 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1889
American d6but as Ernest Drake in "Renee de Moray," Oct. i. The Carleton Opera company commenced in "Nanon," Oct. 8, and repeated it until Ofct. 12, when "The Queen's Lace Handker- chief " filled out the week. " Alone in London " came Oct. 15, with Ada Dwyer as Nan; "The Kaffir Diamond," Oct. 22; Frank Mayo in "The Royal Guard," Oct. 29, 30, Nov. 3; "Davy Crockett," Nov. r, 2, 4; Margaret Mather opened Nov. 5 as Leah, which she repeated Nov. 7-9; "The Lady of Lyons," matinee Nov. 6; "Romeo and Juliet," matinee Nov. 7, night of Nov. 8, and ma- tinee Nov. 10; "Macbeth," evening Nov. 10. "Paul Kauvar" was presented Nov. 12, with this cast:
|
Paul Kauvar . |
Edmund K. Collier |
Dodolphe . . |
. . . . C. Braham |
|
Gen. Delaroche |
Nestor Lennon |
Carrac . . . |
E. Hurd |
|
Col. La Hogue |
. . Harry Vernon |
Bourdotte . . |
. . . Ed. Coleman |
|
Albert . . . |
Chas. VandenhofE |
Goujon . . . |
. . . W. Hudson |
|
Gen. Kleterre . |
. . . E. R. Spencer |
Diane . . . |
. . . Carrie Turner |
|
Nannette . . |
. . . L. Rochelle |
Scarlotte . . |
. . Almira Strong |
|
Marquis . . |
. Steele Mackaye |
Annie Pixley opened Nov. 19, with "The Deacon's Daughter;" Nov. 26, "A Parlor Match" returned; Dec. 3, "Still Alarm;" Dec. 10, the Lyceum Theatre company in "The Wife." Mrs. Berlan-Gibbs made her debut as Helen Truman. "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was done week Dec. 17, with Henry C. Peajces as Uncle Tom, James G. Peakes as Legree, Gussie de Forrest as Eliza and Cassy, Jean Delmar as Topsy. Thatcher, Primrose & West's min- strels occupied the stage week Dec. 24, and were followed Dec. 31 by "Still Alarm;" Jan. 7, 1889, "Partners" was played by the Madison Square Theatre company ; Jan. 14, Roland Reed came in "Woman Hater." N. C. Goodwin, Jr., opened, Jan. 21, in "A Royal Revenge " (first time in this city) and "Confusion." The cast of "A Royal Revenge" was:
Louis XI R. G. Wilson I Nicole Audry . . . . Mattie Earle
Pierre Gringoire . . Nat C. Goodwin I
Louis James and Marie Wainwright appeared Jan. 28 in "As You Like It;" Jan. 29, 31, "Virginius;" matinee and evening Jan. 30, "As You Like It;" Feb. i, and matinde Feb.. 2, "The School for Scandal ; " evening Feb. 2, "Othello."
E. H. Sothern appeared Feb. 4 in "The Highest Bidder," which had this cast :
Lawrence Thornhill . Bonham Cheviot Sir Muffins Struggles Sir Evelyn Graine . Sergeant Downey . Rose Thornhill . . Mrs. Honiton Lacy .
W. B. Royston C. B. Bishop
R. Buckstone . H. Archer
E. K. Measer Belle Archer
Kate Pattison
Jack Hammerton. . . E. H. Sothern
Joseph Tully Marshall
Frank Wiggins .... Cyril Scott
Bill R. Pritchard
John J. T. Murphy
Solomons F. Richardson
Louisa Maude Adams
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GRAND OPERA HOUSE
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Minnie Palmer commenced Feb. 11 in "My Sweetheart." No performance took place Wednesday afternoon, as Miss Palmer refused to play more than one matinee each week. Mrs. James Brown Potter reappeared here, in '"Twixt Axe and Crown," Feb. 18, 20; "Lady of Lyons," Feb. 19, matinee Feb. 22; "She Stoops to Conquer," matinles Feb. 20, 23; "Romeo and Juliet," Feb. 21; "Mile, de Bressiere," Feb. 22. "Paul Kauvar " returned Feb. 25, with Joseph Haworth in the title rdle, and Carrie Turner as Diane. This was followed March 4 by Robert B. Mantell in " Monbars ; " March 11 "Held by the Enemy" was seen; March 18 William J. Scanlan came, in "The Irish Minstrel."
"The Corsair" burlesque was seen March 25, with this cast:
Conrad . . Birbanto Seyd Pacha Yussuf . . Ali . . . Ali Getthere
Carrie M. Perkins
Geo. A. Schiller
Edwin S. Tarr
. Alf Hampton
Maude Emerson
James S. Mafifit
Syng Smaul . . Richard O'Gorman Ahmed .... Helen Marlborough
Medora Frankie Kemble
Gulnare Lila Blow
Zuliema. . . . Geo. K. Fortescue Lelah Amelia Glover
Mrs. Langtry appeared in "Lady Clancarty," April i, 2, 6; "Pygmalion and Galatea," matinde April 3; "Lady of Lyons," evenings April 3, 5, and "As You Like It," April 4, and matinee April s; "Natural Gas" was seen April 8; April 15 Prof. Herr- mann, the magician, came. Prof. G. Cromwell gave his last lec- ture for the season Sunday evening, May 14. "The Paymaster" was produced May 27.
John L. Sullivan, the prize fighter, made his first appearance on the dramatic stage on this occasion, and appeared every night and at the matinles during the week. He had no acting to do, but had merely to go on the stage in one of the scenes and spar with one Lannon.
A summer season commenced June 3, under the management of J. W. Morrissey, with the opera of "Martha;" June 10 "The Bohemian Girl " was sung, with Mme. Pauline L'Allemand, Attalie Claire, Nina Bertini, Emma Berger, Annie Russell, Frank Baxter, Sig. Tagliapietra, Enrico Duzensi, Edward Connell, William Kammerer, and Harry Brown in the cast; June 17 "Chimes of Normandy" was heard. On July I "II Trovatore" was given, with this cast:
Leonora Alida Varenna Manrico Sig. Duzensi
Inez Kate Defossez Count di Luna . . . . W. H. Lee
Azucena .... Eugenie Boner Ferrando Thos. Guise
Ruiz F. Gerhardt
"The Bohemian Girl " was repeated July 4, 5. 6, 1889.
The regular season opened Aug. 26, with the Madison Square Theatre company in Haddon Chambers' "Captain Swift," with this cast:
636 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1890
Wilding .... Maurice Barrymore
Seabrook F. Robinson
Marshall J. H. Stoddart
Harry Seabrook . . . H. Woodrufi Mr. Gardiner . . . . E. M. Holland Stella Darbisher . . Marie Burroughs
Mabel Seabrook . . . Annie Russell Lady Staunton . Mrs. E. J. Phillips
Ryan W. Ramsay
Bates Reuben Fax
Mrs. Seabrook . . . Agnes Booth
"Paul Kauvar" returned Sept. 16; "Sweet Lavender" came Sept. 23; Clara Morris, Sept. 30, for two weeks; "Miss Multon," Sept. 30, Oct. I, and Oct. 4; "Camille," Oct. 2 and matinde Oct. S; "Alixe," Oct. 3 and Oct. 5. Fred Warde and company came Oct. 14, in "The Mountebank;" Oct. 21, "Held by the Enemy;" Oct. 28, Primrose & West's minstrels; Cora Tanner came Nov. 4 in "Fascination." J. K. Emmet, Nov. 11, in "Uncle Joe;" Nov. 18 "A Dark Secret" came; Nov. 25, Cleveland's consoli- dated minstrels ; Dec. 2, " Hands Across the Sea, " cast thus :
Jack Dudley . . Jean de Lussac . Tom Bassett . . Dick Melford . . Robert Stillwood , Capt. Land . .
Wm. G. Beach R. Paton Gibbs J. C. Buckstone Wm. H. Wallis . E. B. Tilton J. W. Atkinson
Polly . . . Paul de Renal Joseph Stillwood Lillian Melford Lucy Nettleford Mme. Vallerie
. Miss Vizetell . J. N. Furlong . . Jas. Otley Edna Carey Anna Bellmont Lizzie Scanlan
Mme. Janauschek appeared Dec. g in "Guy Mannering," fol- lowed, Dec. 16, by " After Dark. " The first American production of " My Jack " took place Dec. 23, with this cast :
Sir Edward Vanberg, W. A. Lackaye Peter Meredith . Lawrence Eddinger Jack Meredith . . . J. H. Gilmour Giro Panitza . . . W. J. Ferguson Solomon Prendergast . Dan Leeson Capt. Hereford . . . H. C. Stanley
Lieut. Smith . . . . B. W. Singer Mrs. Prescott . . Katharine Rogers Dorothy Prescott . Isabelle Evesson
Charles Prescott E. Rose
Sergt. Harker . . . . E. Marston
Annie Pixley appeared Dec. 30 in "22 Second Floor;" Jan. 6, 1890, "A Parlor Match " was sung; Jan. 13, "The Brigands" came back, by Carleton's opera company; Margaret Mather and company were seen in "Gretchen," Jan. 20-23; "Romeo and Juliet," Jan. 21, matinde, and evening Jan. 25; "Lady of Lyons," matinee Jan. 22; "The Honeymoon," night, Jan. 22; "Leah," Jan. 24. The Terriss-Millward company opened Jan. 27. Miss Millward being ill the night of Jan. 27, May Pierce filled her place. Miss Mill- ward appeared Jan. 28. The company closed their American tour here Feb. 3. "The Exiles" came Feb. 10; "Little Lord Faunt- leroy," Feb. 17, with Tommy Russell and Wallie Eddinger alter- nating the r61e of Cedric. N. C. Goodwin, Jr., commenced Feb. 24 in "A Gold Mine," followed, March 3, by "The Stowaway." "Master and Man" was produced March 10, with this cast:
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GRAND OPERA HOUSE
637
Jack Walton . . Robert Carlton . Tom Honeywood Humpy Logan Jem Burleigh . . Crispin St. Jones Hester Thornbury
. J. H. Gilmour
. . M. Lynch
Russell Bassett
Dominick Murray
L. Eddinger
W. J. Ferguson
Isabella Evesson
Little Johnnie, Master Wallie Eddinger Kesiah Honeywood . Lillie Eddinger Letty Lightfoot . . Sybyl Johnstone
Jim Chas. Gibney
John Willett A. Barnard
Levano Chas. R. Gilbert
William J. Scanlan came March 17 in "Myles Aroon." A matinee was given St. Patrick's Day (March 17); "A Midnight Bell" opened March 24; Rose Coghlan, March 31, in "Peg Wof- fington," followed, April 7, hy R. B. Mantell in "The Corsican Brothers;" April 14, "The Great Metropolis;" April 21, the Howard Athenaeum specialty company; April 28, the spectacle, "Kajanka;" May 5, "Natural Gas;" May 12, Roland Reed in "The Woman Hater;" May 19, "The Paymaster," with John L. Sullivan, the pugilist. A season of English opera commenced May 26, with " Faust, " cast as follows :
Mephistopheles . . . . M. Maina
Wagner D. Mascotti
Martha Fanny Myers
Marguerite Siebel . ■ Faust Valentine
Sophie Traubmann
. . Attalie Claire
A. Montegriffo
G. Tagliapietra
M. Manoury, the French baritone, sang Valentine May 28, and continued for the rest of the week. It was his first English- speaking r61e. Selma Kronold, formerly of the- Amberg Opera company appeared May 29, as Marguerite, being her first essay in English opera. " Martha " was sung June 2, with this cast :
Lady Henrietta . Sophie Traubmann Sir Tristan . . Sylvester Langlois Mayor Joseph Witt
Nancy Attalie Claire
Plunkett Myron Maina
Lionel F. Schultz
June 9 "The Bohemian Girl " was the bill for the week, and the cast was :
An Officer Wm. Schoels
A Peasant J. C. Kellogg
A Gypsy Chas. Wilson
Arline .... Sophie Traubmann Buda Lillian Swain
Count Arnheim . . Sig. Tagliapietra Captain of the Guard . . . Jos. Witt Queen of the Gypsies . Fanny Myers
Thaddeus F. Schultz
Florestein Robt. Delius
Devilshoof Ed. Connell
Lillian Swain sang the r61e of Arline June 13. " Carmen " was sung week of June 16. Attalie Claire appeared in the title r61e. Miss Claire took a benefit June 20, when Nina Bertini appeared as Michaela. The cast of " Carmen," June 16, was :
Carmen Attalie Claire
Michaela .... Selma Kronold
Frasquita Lillian Swain
Mercedes Fanny Myers
Don Jos^ Ferd. Schultz
Lillas Pastia
/
Jos. Witt
Escamillo . Doncario . Remendado Tumga . . Morales . .
G. Tagliapietra . E. R. Kellogg . Chas. Wilson , Wm. Schoels , H. T. Keady
638 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE LiSgi
For the closing week of opera " II Trovatore " was produced June 23, and the cast was :
The Count di Luua . G. Tagliapietra Azucena ...... Fanny Myers
Ferrando Ed. Connell Manrico Thos. Ebbets
Leonora Selma Kronold Ruiz Wm. Schoels
Inez Lillian Swain
Ferd. Schultz was announced for Manrico the opening night, but did not appear.
The next season began Aug. 25, 1890, with "The Private Secre- tary." Sept. I, " An Irish Arab " was played, with Bobby Gaylor as a star. It was a version of Lester Wallack's old play, "The Veteran." "Mask of Life" was seen Sept. 8, with J. H. Gilmour as the star; Sept. 15, "Hands Across the Sea;" Sept. 22, "Paul Kauvar," with E. J. Buckley in the title r61e; Sept. 29, "My Jack" was played, with this cast:
Sir Edward Vanburg . . Geo. Hoey Giro Panitza . . P. Aug. Anderson
Solomon Hewlitt Peter Meredith . Charles Prescott . Patrick Doolan .
. Alex. Fisher John E. Martin . Edgar Forrest . Charles Frew
Capt. Hereford . Dorothy Prescott Mary Ibbetson Jack Meredith . . Lieut. Wesby . . Mrs. Prescott . .
. Geo. C. Wood Ethel Harrington . Jennie Christie Walter Sanford Royce Alton . . Kate Meek
Primrose & West's minstrels appeared here Oct. 6, followed, Oct. 13, by "The Red Hussar." "Aunt Jack" was seen Oct. 20, and Oct. 27 Cora Tanner and company came in "One Error," fol- lowed, Nov. 3, by " Good Old Times ; " Nov. 10, Cleveland's min- strels; Nov. 17, "Shenandoah," for the first time at this house, and continued two weeks. Annie Pixley came Dec. i, with "The Deacon's Daughter." "Kate," J. C. Roach's war play, was seen for the first time in New York, Dec. 8, and had this cast :
Sergt. O'Tool . . . B. F. Grinnell Tim Sheridan . Master James Simpson Capt. Randolph . . W. F. Macnichol Mrs. Craven . Fanny Barry Sprague Mrs. Lawson . . . Annie Douglass
Kate Desmond . . . Annie Pixley Maj. Randall .... Jos. Brennan
Jack Randall J. T. Burke
Richard Craven . . Chas. C. Brandt Capt. Harmon . . Geo. R. Sprague Corporal Crabtree . . . M, C. Daly
M. C. Daly withdrew from the company Dec. 9, and Chas. H. Bradshaw took his place, and played the part of the Corporal after the first night. Hallen & Hart's company came Dec. 15, in " Later On ; " Dec. 22 the Pauline Hall opera company were seen in "Erminie;" Dec. 29, J. K. Emmet in "Uncle Joe;" Jan. 5, 1891, " Dr. Bill " and " Sunset " were played ; " Money Mad " was done the week of Jan. 12; "The Inspector," Jan. 19; "A Dark Secret," Jan. 26; Feb. 2 "The Two Orphans" was acted, with Mrs. McKee Rankin and Kate Claxton as the sisters, Adolph Jackson as Pierre, and Chas. Stevenson as the Chevalier. " My Aunt Bridget " came
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Feb. 9, followed, Feb. 16, by "The Charity Ball;" Feb. 23, "A Pair of Spectacles," by the Madison Square Theatre company. It was preceded by "A Man of the World." March 2, "The Still Alarm;" March 9, "The Stowaway;" March 16, George Thatcher's minstrels ; March 23, Frank Daniels in " Little Puck ; " March 30, Margaret Mather opened in "Joan of Arc," repeated March 31, April I, and matin6e April 4; matinee April i, "Lady of Lyons;" April 2, "Cymbeline;" April 3, "Leah;" April 4, "Romeo and Juliet."
Neil Burgess appeared April 6 in "The County Fair," followed, April 13, by H. E. Dixey in "Adonis." Prof. Cromwell resumed his Sunday night lectures April 12. W. J. Scanlan appeared April 20 in "Myles Aroon;" April 27 came "Natural Gas." Prof. Cromwell lectured Sunday evening, April 26, on "The Great Salt Lake."
On May 4 "Work and Wages" was seen, for the first time in this country, and had this cast:
Tom Wentworth . Robert Dormer . Sam Crumpton . Second Workman Policeman 94 K . Justice Buckgrove
John E. Kellerd Jacques Martin Chas. Burbidge . . Jos. Healy . Wm. Janeway J. G. Carpenter
Counsel for the Prosecution, T. Willard Counsel for the Defence, Alfred Agnew Clerk of Arraigns . . T. R. Abbott Olivia Graham . . . Beatrice Lieb Adele Langlois . Beverly Sitgreaves
Sarah Woodleigh . . . Kate Foley Marchioness de Montador
Frankie Craig Paul Radford . . . Chas. G. Craig Victor Langlois ... R. Delmore Lord Arlingford ... F. E. Aiken Ephraim Moses . . . Chas. Coote
Adolphus Addle F. Perry
First Workman .... Hal Wilson
Usher R. Maxwell
Mrs. Maguire . . . Alice Rodman
Lydia Thompson was the star May 11, in " The Dazzler." Rose Coghlan appeared May 18, in "Forget Me Not; " May 19, "Masks and Faces; " May 20, "London Assurance; " May 22, 23, "Lady Barter." An English opera season commenced May 25, under the direction of J. W. Morrissey. "II Trovatore" was presented all the week, with this cast:
Azucena Bella Tomlins
Manrico A. MontegrifiEo
Ruiz B. K. Einstein
Ferrando W. H. Clarke
Leonora Louise Natalie
Inez Miss Linette
Count di Luna . . G. Tagliapietra
Sig. Tagliapietra was stage manager and Paul Steindorff, musical director. Eva Cumings sang the r61e of Leonora May 27, taking the place of Mme. Natalie. " Martha " was sung week commencmg June I :
Lionel F. Michelena
Plunket W.H.Clark
Mayor of Richmond . J. W. Williams
Lady Henrietta . . . Louise Natalie
Sir Tristan Joseph Kilduff
Nancy Bella Tomlins
640 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSgi
Evening, June 4, there were several changes in the cast. Sig. Tagliapietra took the r61e of Plunket, Mme. Natalie that of Mar- tha, and Miss Linda, the Nancy. " The Bohemian Girl " was sung week of June 8. Sig. Tagliapietra retired from the company June 10. " Faust " was given June 15, for the week, and the cast was :
Marguerite .... Louise Natalie
Siebel Anna Russell
Faust F. Michelena
Mephistopheles ... W. H. Clark
Valentine Wm. Martens
Wagner F. Borneman
Martha Rosa Linda
" Carmen " was presented June 22, with Louise Natalie as the heroine ; June 29, " II Trovatore," repeated matinee July i ; " Faust," June 30. Sig. Tagliapietra took a benefit evening July i, when " The Bohemian Girl " and " Carmen " were given. " Fra Diavolo " was sung July 2, 3, matinee and evening, July 4. The season closed July 4.
The house reopened Saturday evening, Aug. 22, 1891, with Charles A. Gardner, the star, in " Captain Karl," for the first time in this city. It had this cast :
Karl Chas. A. Gardner
Bruno Henry Kingsley
Klinger Ignace Conradi
Boatman .... Alex. Johnstone
Gertrude Eva Byron
Baroness Marion May
Rudolph Royce Alton
Katz Frank Grauss
Rudolph Bandies . Ogden Stevens Adolphus Sigismund
Robt. V. Ferguson Father Baptist . . Wm. H. Leyden Wilhelmina .... Nellie Walters Little Otto . . . Little Hazel Regan
Christine Carrie Grauss
Margaret Bertie Alton
Daniel Sully in "The Millionaire" came Aug. 31, followed, Sept. 7, by " Dr. Bill " and " Sunset ; " Sept. 14 " The Fire Patrol " was seen; Sept. 21, "Shenandoah; " Sept. 28, Primrose & West's min- strels ; Oct. 5 " All the Comforts of Home " was played by Charles Frohman's company; Oct. 12, "My Jack; " Oct. 19, Oliver Byron in " The Plunger ; " Oct. 26 Clara Morris appeared in " Odette," repeated Oct. 28, 30, 3 1 and special matinee Oct. 28, in aid of the fund for the release of Mrs. Maybrick, confined in an English prison for having poisoned her husband; "Camille" was played Oct. 27, 29, and matinee Oct. 31. Cora Tanner followed Nov. 2 in " Will She Divorce Him ? " Prof. Cromwell began his annual series of Sunday illustrated lectures Nov. 8. " The Power of the Press " was seen Nov. 9; "Shenandoah," Nov. 16; Cleveland's minstrels appeared Nov. 23 ; " Later On," Nov. 30 ; Harry Lacy in " Jack Royal" Dec. 7. At the performance Dec. 12, a new version of "Jack Royal," by John M. Morton, was acted for the first time. " Mr. Wilkinson's Widows " was acted Dec. 14, followed by Richard Mansfield Dec. 21, 23, and matinee Dec. 26, in "Beau Brummell; " Dec. 22 and Christmas night Dec. 25 "A Parisian Romance;"
1893: GRAND OPERA HOUSE 641
Dec. 24, 26, " Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde ; " matinee Dec. 25, " Prince Karl." Dec. 28 "The Power of the Press " returned; Jan. 4, 1892, J. K. Emmet, Jr. was seen in " Fritz in Ireland ; " "A Parlor Match" came Jan. 11.
T. H. French signed a lease of this house on Jan. 10, for one year, at ^50,000, from May i. It is understood that the reason the lease was not signed earlier was because the rent had recently been in- creased, and also because there were many repairs necessary which Jay Gould wanted the lessee to make. Donnelly and Girard appeared Jan. 18, in "Natural Gas," followed Jan. 25, by "The Stowaway; " Feb. I Fanny Davenport played " Cleopatra ; " " Men and Women " was seen Feb. 8 ; " Hands Across the Sea," Feb. 15 ; " Mr. Barnes of New York," Feb. 22 ; " The City Directory," Feb. 29 ; •' Yon Yon- son," March 7 ; N. C. Goodwin, March 14, in " The Nominee ; " previous to which was given " Art and Nature " for the first time. The cast was :
Mile. Dumesnil . . . Mabel Amber 1 Louise Minnie Dupree
Pierre Duboisson . . R. G. Wilson | Adrien Wm. Beach
" Mr. Potter of Texas " was played here March 21 ; " Eight Bells " came March 28, followed, April 4, by " The Still Alarm." Rose Coghlan commenced April 11, in "Dorothy's Dilemma." "A Straight Tip" followed April 18. A sacred concert was given Sun- day night, April 17, by Gilmore's Band. Emma and Emilie Schnee- loch, Mme. Erminie de Rouvillain, Sig. Victor Clodio, Edward O'Mahony, and Herbert L. Clarke were the soloists. " Money Mad " was done April 25, with Emily Rigl as the star. Nellie McHenry appeared May 2 in " A Night at the Circus," followed, May 9, by Frederick Paulding in "The Struggle of Life," May 16, by Margaret Mather in " The Egyptian," and May 23, by " The Midnight Alarrn." Kate Claxton was seen May 30 as Louise in " Two Orphans," with Viola Allen as Henriette, and Chas. Stevenson as Jacques. " Uncle Tom's Cabin" was done June 6. The season closed June 11.
The house reopened Saturday Aug. 27, with " City Directory ; " " Power of the Press" returned Sept. 5 ; " Across the Potomac " came Sept. 12; Oliver Doud Byron, Sept. 19, in " The Plunger; " Primrose & West's minstrels, Sept. 26 ; " PoHce Patrol," Oct. 3 ; " Struggle for Life," Oct. 10; " White Squadron," Oct. 17; and "The Planter's Wife," Oct. 24, with Harry Lacy and Emily Rigl the stars. " A Dark Secret " was seen Oct. 31 ; James J. Corbett, the pugilist, ap- peared Nov. 7, in " Gentleman Jack ; " " The Soudan " was seen Nov. 14; " Eight Bells," Nov. 21 ; "My Jack," Nov. 28 ; "A Fair Rebel," Dec. 5 ; Dr. Carver, in " The Scout," Dec. 12; " Silver King," Dec. 19, and Annie Pixley, Dec. 26, in " Miss Blythe of Duluth."
" Power of Gold " was repeated Jan. 2, 1893; "A Night at the Circus," came Jan. 9, with Nellie McHenry the star. " A Midnight
VOL. II. — 41
642 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1893
Alarm " was given Jan. 16; "Jane," Jan. 23; "Span of Life," Jan. 30; "Flag of Truce," Feb. 6; "Lost Paradise," Feb. 13; "The Diamond Breaker," Feb. 20; "Sport McAllister," Feb. 27; "Across the Potomac," March 6; and " Mavourneen," March 13, with Chauncey Olcott as the star. Minna Gale Haynes appeared in " Ingomar," March 20, and matinee March 22 ; in " As You Like It," March 21-24 5 " Lady of Lyons," March 22, and matin6e March 25 ; and in " Romeo and Juliet," the night of March 25. Robert J. Downing was seen in " Virginius," March 27 ; " Ingomar," March 28, and matinee March 29 ; and in " The Gladiator " for the rest of the week ; J. K. Emmet, Jr., came April 3, in " Fritz in Ireland." Maggie Cline was a feature of the entertainment. " Glendalough " was played April 10; "Jane "and "Chums" were seen April 17, with Lottie Collins in her songs and dances ; Fanny Davenport appeared here April 24, in " Cleopatra ; " The week of May i " Sweet Will " in one act was acted here for the first time and had this cast : Will Darby- shire, Frank Gilmore; Mrs. Darbyshire, Ada Curry; Judith Love- less, Evelyn Campbell. This was followed by " The Sportsman," thus cast:
Harry Briscoe Bob Briscoe Dr. Holroyd . Mr. Perkins . Inspector Roby
Joseph Holland . Charles Abbe M. A. Kennedy Robert Hickman T. C. Valentine
Mrs. Harry Briscoe, Evelyn Campbell Mrs. Fritchley . . . Minnie Tittell
Ada Ada Curry
Emily Margaret Craven
Prof. Alex Herrmann, the magician, was seen May 8. The lease of T. Henry French expired May 13. Edmund C. Stanton assumed the management May 15, 1893, and opened on that date with Gus- tave Heinrich's opera company in " II Trovatore ; " Leonora, Marie Tavary ; Azucena, Lizzie Macnichol ; Manrico, Payne Clarke ; Count di Luna, Aug. Montegriffo. "La Traviata" was sung May 16; " Maritana," May 17 ; " II Trovatore," May 18 ; "Cavalleria Rusti- cana " and the third act of " Ernani," May 19; " Maritana " matinee May 20; " II Trovatore," night of May 20; " Martha," May 22, and matinee May 27; with this cast: Lady Henrietta, Marie Tavary; Nancy, Lizzie Macnichol ; Lionel, Aug. Montegriffo ; Plunket, W. H. Clarke ; Lord Tristan, Richard Karl ; Sheriff, Charles Storey. " Ernani " and " Cavalleria Rusticana " were sung May 23 ; " Rigo- letto," May 24 and Junes; "Bohemian Girl," May 25-27; "Car- men," May 26, with Mme. Kronold as Carmen ; " Faust " was sung May 29 and June 3-6 and matinee June 10, with Marie Tavary as Marguerite. "La Gioconda" was produced June i, with this cast: La Gioconda, Selma Kronold ; Le Cieca, Katherine Fleming ; Al- vise Badoero, W. H. Clarke ; Laura, Lizzie Macnichol. The first pro- duction of this work in America was in Italian at the Metropolitan Opera House, New York, Dec. 20, 1883. Perry Averill sang
18943 GRAND OPERA HOUSE 643
Valentine in " Faust " June 3 ; " The Daughter of the Regiment " was sung June 8 ; "II Trovatore," June 9 ; " Cavalleria Rusticana " and one act of "Ernani," June 10; " Lucia," June 12. "Carmen" was repeated June 13, with Ida Klein as Michaela ; " Cavalleria Rus- ticana" and the third act of " Ernani," matinee, June 14, with Natalie as Elvira and Santuzza.
Leoncavello's opera, " I Pagliaci," was heard for the first time in this country the night of June 15. It had this cast: Neddia, Selma- Koert-Kronold ; Canio, Angotino Montegriffo ; Tonio, Giuseppe Cam- panari; Beppo, Mangeri de Pasquali ; Silvio, Perry Averill. It had four representations, and the opera season closed June 17. "A Texas Steer " was seen here June 19 ; " The House on the Marsh " came June 26 ; " Held in Slavery," July 3, and the theatre closed July 8 for the summer.
The next season began Aug. 21, 1893, with "Span of Life." Leon J. Vincent was the stage manager; Edmond C. Stanton man- ager. " The Silver King " came Aug. 28 ; " The White Squadron," Sept. 4; " Mavourneen " was seen Sept. 11 ; " Spider and the Fly," Sept. 18; " Hands Across the Sea," Sept. 25 ; Primrose and West's minstrels appeared Oct. 2 ; " Power of Gold," Oct. 9 ; " A Midnight Alarm," Oct. 16; J. K. Emmet, Jr., was seen Oct. 23 in Sydney Rosenfeld's new play, " Fritz in Prosperity ; " "A Country Circus " was presented Oct. 30, " The Struggle of Life " returned Nov. 6, and " The Power of Gold," Nov. 13.
Edmond C. Stanton withdrew from the management in October, when Samuel Singleton, the former janitor of the house, was made director, and David T. Thompson business manager. Mr. Singleton had been connected with the theatre since 1869, when he was ap- pointed night watchman by James Fisk. He afterward became janitor and was made doorkeeper under Poole and Donnelly's man- agement. James O'Neill came here Nov. 20 in " Monte Cristo ; " "The Idea," was done Nov. 27; "A Nutmeg Match," was seen Dec. 4; "The Ensign," Dec. 11; "Maine and Georgia," Dec. 18; " New South," Dec. 25 ; " Hustler," Jan. i, 1894; " Police Patrol," Jan. 8; "Prodigal Father," Jan. 15; "Fencing Master," Jan. 22; "Mr. Potter of Texas," Jan. 29; "Nominee," Feb. 5; "Monte Carlo," Feb. 12 ; and " Blue Jeans " came Feb. 19 for a stay of two weeks ; " Lady Windermere's Fan " was presented March 5 ; Katie Emmett came in " Killarney," March 12 ; "A Texas Steer," March 19; and " A Parlor Match," March 26. " La Tosca " was produced April 2 and 7, and " Cleopatra " the rest of the week, with Fanny Davenport as the star. "A Brass Monkey" followed April 9; Kate Claxton came April i$ in " The Two Orphans ; " " Jane " was seen April 23; " 41abama,'- April 30; "One Touch of Nature," " Saints and Sinne^'""-A-'Pair of Spectacles," and " Jim the Pen- man " were seen the week of May 7 ; Harry Lacy came May 14 in
644 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSgs
" The Planter's Wife ; " " An Arabian Night " was played May 21, with Belle Archer as the star; "Ruth's Romance" preceded "An Arabian Night." Milton Nobles was seen May 28, in "The Phoenix." A season of opera commenced June 4 with " II Trova- tore," repeated June 8, 12, 16 ; " Carmen," June 5, and matinee June 9, and night of June 13 ; "Bohemian Girl," matinee June 6, night of June 7, and matinee June 16 ; " Faust," June 6-9-14 ; " Martha," June II and matinee June 13; "Cavalleria Rusticana," and one act of "La Traviata," June 15; the season closed June 16. Conreid Beh- rens, Marie Severin, Sig. V. Bielleto, A. Blum, Amelia Harrison, Miss Goeltich, S. H. Dudley, Lizzie Annandale, Miss Walton, Mme. Tavary, Miss Olten, Perry Averill, Payne Clarke, and. H. S. Dudley composed the operatic company. The house reopened Saturday, June 23, for the benefit of Leon J. Vincent.
The next season began Aug. 25, 1894, with "Paul Kauvar ; " "A Flag of Truce " was done Sept. 3 ; Thomas W. Keene appeared as Richard III. Sept. 10 and 15 ; " Merchant of Venice," Sept. 12 ; " Richelieu," matinee Sept. 12; " Louis XL," Sept. 11 ; " Othello," Sept. 13; "Hamlet," Sept. 14 and matinee, Sept. 15; "The Great Brooklyn Handicap" was presented Sept. 17, and "The Black Crook," came Sept. 24 for two weeks ; " A Ride for Life " was given Oct. 8 ; Joseph Murphy appeared in "Kerry Gow " Oct. 15, 16, 17, and in " Shaun Rhue" Oct. 18, 19, 20. Primrose and West's min- strels came Oct. 22 ; " Eight Bells " returned Oct. 29 ; " The Girl I Left Behind Me " was seen Nov. 5 ; Lottie Collins' Troubadours came Nov. 12; " Rosedale," Nov. 19; Kate Claxton and Mme. Janauschek were seen in the " Two Orphans " Nov. 26 ; " Shaft No. 2 " came Dec. 3, with Frank Losee and Mrs. W. G. Jones in the cast ; and " McKenna's Flirtations " was done Dec. 10.
" The Road to Ruin " was presented Dec. 17, with Mrs. John Drew as Widow Warren. " My Partner " came Dec. 24, with Louis Aldrich the star and Theo. Hamilton as Clay Britt ; Barry O'Neil appeared Dec. 31, in "Irish Inspiration; " " Blue Jeans" was done Jan. 7, 189s ; "Superba" came Jan. 14. On the afternoon of Jan. 17 there was a performance here, and also one at the Academy of Music, for the relief of the widow and children of two firemen who lost their lives at a fire on Dec. 29. EfSe Ellsler came here Jan. 21, in "Doris; " Lewis Morrison Jan. 28, in "Faust; " William Hoey Feb. 4, in "The Flams;" "Darkest Russia" was seen Feb. 11; " Charley's Aunt," Feb. 18, and Marie Wainwright appeared Feb. 25 in " Daughters of Eve," by A. E. Lancaster and Julian Magnus. This play was given all the week except matinee Feb. 27, when " Camille " was presented. Donnelly and Girard came March 4, in " The Rain- makers ; " Primrose and West's minstrels, March 1 1 ; Oliver Doud Byron, March 18, in "The Ups and Downs of Life; " " The Derby Winner " was seen March 25 ; " Garry Owen," by Murphy O'Hea,
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GRAND OPERA HOUSE
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was done April i, with Tony Farrell the star, and Maggie Cline ap- peared in her specialties. " A Trip to Chinatown " came April 8 ; Agnes Herndon, April 15, in " La Belle Marie " all the week except April 18, 19, and matinee April 20, when "Married Not Mated," adapted from " Maud's Peril " was played. Alex Salvini commenced April 22 in the " Three Guardsmen" for the week except April 25, when " Hamlet " was acted for a professional matinee. Kate Clax- ton and Mme. Janauschek returned April 29 in " The Two Orphans ; " The Tavary opera company appeared May 6 in " Rigoletto " and " Cavalleria Rusticana." Verdi's opera had this cast : Gilda, Marie Tavary; Madelena, Lizzie Annandale; Duke of Mantua, Payne Clarke ; Rigoletto, William Mertens ; Sparafucile, William Hamilton. In " Cavalleria Rusticana," Santuzza was sung by Mme. Thea Dorre ; Turridu by Payne Clarke ; Lucia, Dora Escott ; Alfio, William Schuster ; and Lola by Sofia Romani. " II Trovatore " was given May 7, with Tavary as Leonora, Payne Clarke as Manrico, and Lizzie An- nandale as Azucena ; " Martha " was sung matinee May 8, with Nina Humphreys in title role. " Carmen " was heard night and matinde May II, also May 14, with Thea Dorre as Carmen; "Bohemian Girl " was sung May 9, and matinee May 15 ; " Cavalleria Rusticana " and "I Pagliacci," May 10; "II Trovatore," May 11, and matinee May 18 ; " Martha," May 13, and " Faust," night May 16, when Sig. Abramofif acted Mephistopheles. " Tannhauser " was presented May 17; "Cavalleria Rusticana," with portions of "Rigoletto" and "Carmen," May 18; "The Lily of Killarney," by Sir Julius Bene- dict, was heard May 20, 22, 25, with this cast:
Hardress Cregan . . Charles Bassett Myles-na-Coppaleen . Payne Clarke Danny Mann . . William T. Carleton
Eily O'Connor Anne Chute . Mrs. Cregan . Sheelah . . .
Helen Bertram . . Emma Siebert . Kate Michelena Katherine Griiifiths
This was the ddbut in opera of Emma Siebert. She had been singing in concerts previously. The first production of " The Lily of Killarney" in this city took place on Oct. 21, 1875, at Booth's Theatre. " Faust " was given May 21 with Mme. RoUa as Margue- rite ; " Cavalleria Rusticana " and the garden scene from " Faust " were sung May 23, with Helen Bertram as Santazza. AnnaLichter made her New York debut as Marguerite. " II Trovatore " was
given May 24, with Anna Lichter as Leonora, and Heinrich Meyn, his first appearance in opera, as Count di Luna ; " Lily of Killarney " apeated the week of May 27, except matinees May 30 and June „en the " Bohemian Girl " was sung. The ballet of " Copellia '' presented on the same night as "The Lily of Killarney; valleria Rusticana," also acts of "II Trovatore" were given
appearance was rej I, when the was
" Cavalleria
June I. , ^ t
The Kyrle Bellew-Potter company appeared here the week ot June 3, in " Charlotte Corday," which had this cast :
646 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C'Sge
Charlotte de Corday d'Armont
Mrs. Potter Francois de Corday d'Armont
Verner Clarges Abb^ Fleuriot . . Henry Chanfrau Mason Mitchell
Monsieur David Adam Lux . . Potin Langlois Drouet . . .
Arthur Bawtree
. . John Ward
Mr. Hartley
Legendre .... George Barnes
Rebuillet Mr. Clarges
Rose de Corday d'Armont
Perdita Hudspeth Simmone Everard . . Helen Lowell
Marie Ida Ward
Marianne Miss Ardsley
Jean Paul Marat .... Mr. Bellew
The season closed June 8. The theatre was reopened Aug. 31,
1895, with Augustus Pitou as manager, when " The Passing Show " was given ; Lewis Morrison appeared Sept. 9, in " Faust ; " " Fan- tasma " came Sept. 16 ; " Sowing the Wind," Sept. 23 ; " The Twen- tieth Century Girl," Sept. 30, with Fred Hallen as the star ; Prof. Alex Herrmann, magician, was seen Oct. 7 ; " The Black Crook," Oct. 14; "The Foundling," Oct. 21; " Charley's Aunt," Oct. 28; and " Rory of the Hill," Nov. 4 ; Mr. and Mrs. Russ Whytal appeared Nov. II, in "Agatha Dean" and "For Fair Virginia;" Nellie McHenry came Nov. 18, in " The Bicycle Girl ; " " The Cotton King," Nov. 25 ; "A Bowery Girl," Dec. 2. Edward Clifford, the stage manager of the last named play, dropped dead upon reaching his home after the first performance. Clara Morris acted " Camille " Dec. 9, 12, and matinee Dec. 14 ; Armand Duval was played by James M. Colville, and Mons. Duval by F. C Harriott, husband of Clara Morris. " Article 47 " was seen Dec. 10 ; " Raymond " matinee, Dec. II and night of Dec. 14. " Miss Multon," Dec. 11-13 ; Oliver Doud Byron, Dec. 16, in " The Ups and Downs of Life ; " " Humanity," Dec. 23; " Superba," Dec. 30; and "The Masqueraders," Jan. 6,
1896. " A Milk White Flag " was seen Jan. 13 ; Peter Dailey came Jan. 20, in " The Night Clerk ; " Primrose and West's minstrels, Jan. 27; the burlesque of " Thrilby," Feb. 3; "Gay Parisians," Feb. 10 ; " In Old Kentucky," Feb. 17 ; and " A Midsummer Night's Dream " was seen Feb. 24, played by Aug. Daly's company. " Lit- tle Christopher " appeared March 2 ; " 1492 " came March 9 ; " Cruis- keen Lawn," March 16 ; Warde and Yokes, in " A Run on the Bank," March 23 ; " White Slave," March 30; " Fatal Card," April 6; Kate Claxton, April 13, in "The Two Orphans; "" Coon Hollow," April 20 ; The Whitney opera company, April 27, in "Rob Roy; " "Trilby" was presented May 4, with this cast :
TafEy . . The Laird . Little Billee Svengali Gecko . . Zou Zou
. . Charles Riegel
. John Glendinning
. Alfred Hickman
Wilton Lackaye
Robert Paton Gibbs
Ignacio Martinetti
Rev. Thos. Bagot, Edward L. Walton
Trilby Blanche Walsh
Mrs. Bagot Rosa Rand
Madame Vinard . Mathilde Cottrelly
Angele Alice Evans
Musette .... Josephine Bennett
The Tavary opera company began a two-weeks season May 11, opening in " Lucia di Lammermoor " and " Cavalleria Rusticana; "
l897ll
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
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"II Trovatore" was sung May 12; "Bohemian Girl," matinee May 13 ; " Martha," night of May 13 ; " Carmen," May 14, and mati- nee May 16 ; " Faust," May 15 ; " Bohemian Girl " and " I Pagliacci," May 16; Chauncey Olcott, May 25, in " Mavourneen." Carleton opera company came June i for one week in " The Chimes of Nor- mandy," at cheap prices. Business was bad and the season closed June 6.
The theatre was reopened Aug. 29, 1896, with Scott Marble's play, " The Cotton Spinner ; " " The War of Wealth " was given Sept. 7; "Chimmie Fadden," Sept. 14; "Land of the Living," Sept. 21 ; " The Last Stroke," Sept. 28 ; Sandow's Vaudeville com- pany appeared Oct. 5 ; Maggie Cline came, in " On Broadway," Oct. 12; "A Night at the Circus," with Nellie McHenry, Oct. 19; " Ex- celsior," Oct. 26 ; May Irwin was seen Nov. 2 in " Widow Jones ; " Primrose and West's minstrels came Nov. 16 ; " Power of the Press," Nov. 23 ; James Corbett, the pugilist, Dec. 7, in " The Naval Cadet ; " Peter F. Dailey, Dec. 14, in "A Good Thing," and "Fantasma" began a two-weeks stay Dec. 21 ; "In Old Kentucky" was played Jan. 4, 1897; "Eight Bells" was done Jan. ii; "The Sporting Duchess" came Jan. 18; Fields' minstrels, Jan. 25; "Under the Polar Star," Feb. i ; " Hogan's Alley," Feb. 8 ; " Woman in Black," Feb. IS ; " Siberia," Feb. 22 ; " Lady Slavey," March i ; " Jim the Penman," March 8 ; Maggie Cline appeared, in " On Broadway," March 15; "Prisoner of Zenda" was seen March 22; "Madame Sans-G^ne," March 29 ; Roland Reed came, in " The Politician," April 5; "Sowing the Wind" was done April 12; "Two Little Vagrants," April 19; "The Heart of Maryland," April 26; "The Cherry Pickers " May 3 ; and E. H. Sothern appeared May 10, in " An Enemy to the King." There was no Wednesday matinee this week. Harry Weber's " Uncle Tom's Cabin " company closed the season May 22.
The theatre was reopened Aug. 21, 1897, with "A Fight for Honor," by Frank Harvey, acted for the first time in America, and the cast was :
George Clive . James Rockley Charley Jessop Will Marvin . Richard Damer Joe Chevirs Dr. Mayne
M3T0n W. Leffingwell
Geo C. Robinson
Frederick Power
Joseph Conyers
John F. Webber
John McVeagh
John F. Bolger
Serg. Banks . Isabelle Damer Milly Price Polly Jessop . Mrs. Jessop . Marie Minks .
Maurice de Witt Annie Mortland . . Bessie Lee Fanny Gonzalez Mrs. Gonzalez Katherine Carlisle
"A Black Sheep" was seen Aug. 30; " A Contented Woman " came Sept. 6; "At Coney Island," Sept 13; and "The Man-of- War's-Man," by James W. Harkins, was presented Sept. first time in this city :
20 for the
648. A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE CiSgS
Capt. Jack Conway . Thos E. Shea Capt. Basilio Havilando, Henry Testa Lieut. Herman Schiller
Lawrence Grattan Ensign Barry Hanlay, Frank Buoman Senor Enrique Candenas
H. Fletcher Havey Gen. Ivan Pletrovitch, William Games Gen. Raposo . . J. Irving Southard Baron AdamantofE . . . J. E. Gilber
Prince Septime Barenski
Richard Hutchins Lieut. Victor Leontine, WiUiam Johnson Hon. Cyril Denleigh . George West Count von Winterfelt, Charles Rollins Russian Jailer . . . John Wilton Elinore Denleigh. . . Louise Brooks Jessie Denleigh . Gertrude Roosevelt Rose Leontine . . . Rose Adelle
Primrose and West's minstrels were heard Sept. 27; "Eight Bells" came Oct. 4; Lillian Lewis, Oct. 11, in "For Love and Liberty;" "The Sporting Duchess" returned Oct. 18, with Rose Coghlan, Cora Tanner, Louis Massen, J. H. Stoddart, Ffolliot Paget, and Harry Lacy in the cast. " McSorley's Twins " were seen Oct. 25 ; Robert Ingersoll lectured Sunday night, Oct. 31 ; " Courted into Court" was done Nov. i, with Marie Dressier as the star; "McFad- den's Row of Flats " came Nov. 8 ; and Margaret Mather presented " Cymbehne " Nov. 15, with this cast :
Pisanio Lynn Pratt
Queen .... Augusta de Forrest
Helen Elsie Sturkow
Imogen Margaret Mather
lachimo Mark Price
Caius W. V. Ranous
|
Cymbeline |
. . . O'Kane Hillis |
|
C oten . . |
. . B. T. Ringgold |
|
Posthumus . |
Harrison J. Wolfe |
|
Belarius |
. . . E. A. Eberle |
|
Guiderius . |
. . Conrad Cantsen |
|
Arviragus . |
. . . Fred Hartley |
"What Happened to Jones.'" was seen Nov. 22; Carl Haswin appeared in " The Silver King " Nov. 29 ; Francis Wilson was heard in "Half a King" Dec. 6; Geo. W. Munroe came Dec. 13, in "A Happy Little Home." Between the second and third act, John Rice, one of the contestants in a recent six-day bicycle-race, appeared on his wheel. "The Secret Enemy" was seen Dec. 20, with Elmer Grandin as the star; the Rays, in "A Hot Old Time," were seen Dec. 27; " Capt. Impudence" appeared Jan. 2, 1898; "My Friend from India" came Jan. 9; "A Ward of France," Jan. 16; " In Old Ken- tucky," Jan. 23 ; " Cumberland '61," for a two-weeks stay, Ja'n. 30; " Never Again " came Feb. 14 ; Primrose and West's minstrels, Feb. 21 ; " Under the Red Robe," Feb. 28 ; and " Oliver Twist" was re- vived March 7.
Nancy Sikes . Fagin . . . Bumble . . . Artful Dodger Oliver Twist .
Elita Proctor Otis
H. G. Carleton
. Louis Hendricks
Charles Danby
Daisy Lovering
Mrs. Corney Rose Maylie Mrs. Bed win Bill Sikes .
Violet Campbell
Blanche Johnson
. EflSe Carleton
Charles Barron
Chauncey Olcott appeared in "Sweet Inniscarra" March 14; May Irwin was seen March 21 in "The Swell Miss Fitzwell; " March 28
1899]
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
649
" East Lynne " was played, with McKee Rankin, Wilton Lackaye, Nance O'Neil, and Rose Eytinge in the cast. " Eight Bells " returned April 4 ; " What Happened to Jones ? " was seen April 11;" Gettys- burg," April 18; Sol Smith Russell came April 25, in "A Bachelor's Romance ; " " Little Lord Fauntleroy " was acted May 2 ; E. H. Sothern appeared May 9, in " Lord Chumley ; " " That Man from Mexico" came May 16; "The White Squadron" was done May 23, with Robert Hilliard heading the cast ; and the season closed June 4. The theatre was reopened Sept. 5, 1898, with "When London Sleeps;" "A Trip to Coontown " was given Sept. 12; "Wine, Woman, and Song," Sept. 19; and the "Louis James-Katherine Kidder-Fred Warde Combination" acted "The School for Scandal" Sept. 26, and matinde Sept. 30, with Louis James as Charles Surface, Warde as Joseph Surface, and Miss Kidder as Lady Teazle. " Julius Caesar " was played Sept. 27, and matinee Sept. 28 ; " Hamlet," the night of Sept. 28 ; " Othello," Sept. 29 ; and " Macbeth," Sept. 30. " Going to the Races " was given Oct. 3, for the first time in this city, by the Byrne Bros. West's minstrels came Oct. 10; "Yankee Doodle Dandy," Oct. 17; "Cumberland 61," Oct. 24; "Tempest Tossed," Oct. 31 ; James O'Neill appeared Nov. 7 in " Monte Cristo ; " Nov. 14 came "A Stranger in New York; " Nov. 21, " In Old Ken- tucky; " Nov. 28 " Red, White and Blue," by James Schonberg, was seen for the first time in New York, and had this cast :
Bob Newton .... Chas. Stewart Guide Romero . . . M. J. Jordan Manrique .... Wm. J. Bowen
Pedro E. J. MacGregor
Lopez H. Morton
Miguel John Germon
Sanza John Ince, Jr.
Garcie A. S. Simpson
Werner C. Warrington
Blanche Wilson . . Miss McMillan Olivia Russell . . Miss Radcliffe Dora Russell .... Miss Bronson George Wilson, Miss Mattie Southwell Olive Wilson . . Miss Ella Southwell Hetty Hale . . . Miss G. Quinlan Walter Wilson . . Wm. G. Stewart Reginald Weaver . . . John Craig Rev. Father Savage . Mr. Keenan Pat. McSheedey . . . Mr. Sullivan
"The Sign of the Cross," Dec. 5, and repeated Dec. 12; "Lost in Siberia," Dec. 19; "The White Heather," Dec. 26, for two weeks; Jan. 9, 1899, "Have You Seen Smith?" Jan. 16, "The Evil Eye;" Jan. 23, "A Female Drummer;" Jan. 30, "Shenan- doah," for two weeks; Feb. 13, Primrose and Dockstader's min- strels; Feb. 20, "Hotel Topsy Turvy;" Feb. 27, Fanny Rice in "At the French Ball ; " March 6, " On and Off; " March 13 Delia Fox was seen in "A Little Host; " March 20 Herbert Kelcey and Effie Shannon appeared, in "The Moth and the Flame; " March 27 " The Air Ship " came ; April 3 May Irwin was seen m " Kate Kip Buyer- " April 10 Henry Miller played in "Heartsease; " April 17 "The French Maid" was given; April 24, "The Turtle; " May i, "A Female Drummer; " May 8, " Uncle Tom's Cabm; May 15,
650 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE D900
Florizel Norman Hackett
Polixenes .... Barry Johnstone
Paulina Helen Singer
Emilia . . Mrs. Henry Vandenhoff Hermione . . . Katherine Kidder
" Black Patti's Troubadours ; " May 22 Stuart Robson appeared in " The Meddler ; " and May 29 Chauncey Olcott was seen in " A Romance of Athlone." The season closed June 3.
The theatre was reopened Saturday night, Sept. 2, 1899, with " The King of the Opium Ring," a Chinese play. Sept. 1 1 " Hearts of Oak" came; Thos. Shea returned Sept. 18 in "A Man-of-War's- Man," which was done all the week except Saturday night, when " Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde " was given. Kellar, the magician, appeared the week of Sept 25 ; "A Grip of Steel " was given Oct. 2 ; Louis James, Katherine Kidder, Chas. Hanford, and company appeared Oct. 9 in "The Winter's Tale," which was repeated Oct. 13, and matinee Oct. 14; the cast was:
Leontes C. B. Hanford
Autolycus Louis James
Camillo . . . Thomas Coffin Cooke Antigonus .... Harry Langdon
Shepherd John Ellsler
Clown Collin Kemper
" Macbeth " was played Oct. 10, matinee Oct. 1 1 and night of Oct. 14 ; Oct. II, "The School for Scandal ; " and "The Rivals," Oct. 12 ; " Eight Bells " returned Oct. 16 ; Miss Blanche Walsh, Melbourne McDowell, and company appeared Oct. 23, matinee Oct. 25, and night Oct. 28, in " La Tosca ; " " Gismonda " was played Oct. 24, 26, 27 ; and "Fedora," Oct. 25; "The Girl from Maxim's" came Oct. 30; " Mile. Fifi," Nov. 6; " Phroso," Nov. 13 ; " The Sorrows of Satan," Nov. 20; " Why Smith Left Home," Nov. 27 ; James O'Neill was seen Dec. 4, in "The Three Musketeers," and all the week except Dec. 9, when "Monte Cristo" was acted; on Dec. 11 "Sporting Life" was done; Dec. 18, for two weeks, came " Shore Acres," with Nat Jones in the principal part; Jan. i, 1900, "Because She Loved Him So; " Jan. 8 came, for two weeks, "The Gunner's Mate; " Jan. 22 " A Stranger in a Strange Land " appeared ; Jan. 29 Ward and Yokes came in " The Floor Walkers ; " Feb. 5 " The Girl in the Bar- racks" appeared; Feb. 12, "Shenandoah; " Feb. 19, "In Old Ken- tucky;" Feb. 26, "The Rogers Bros, in Wall Street;" March 5 Mathews and Bulger were seen, in "By the Sad Sea Waves;" March 12, Primrose and Dockstadter's minstrels; March 19 May Irwin came, in " Sister Mary ; " March 26 came " What Happened to Jones?" April 2 Herbert Kelcey and Effie Shannon were seen, in " The Moth and the Flame ; " April 9, Cole and Johnson's colored specialty company, in "A Trip to Coontown; " April 16 "A Guilty Mother" was seen; April 23, "Man's Enemy;" April 30, "A Young Wife;" May 7, Blanche Walsh and Melbourne McDowell appeared all the week in "Cleopatra," except at the Wednesday matinee, when " Fedora " was played. The cast of " Cleopatra " was:
190x3
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651
Marc Antony . Melbourne Macdowell Demetrius .... Chas. W. Stokes Thyseus .... James E. Nelson
Dercetas Ellis Ryse
Kephren Sydney Booth
Olympus John T. Burke
Governor of Tarsus . . Frank Willard
Messenger Harry Hynes
Octavius Caesar .... F. Harris Amosis J. Frank Gibbons
Juba Antony's H. J. Serviss
Strepsiade officers Alex. Wynne
A Merchant of Geo. Clifton
A Noble Tarsus R. E. Barton
Octavia, Katherine Power
Charmian Cleo- Constance Williams Iras patra's Emily Baker
Mezga women Marie Knudsen
Cleopatra .... Blanche Walsh
On May 14 "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was seen; May 21 Willie Col- lier came in " Mr. Smooth ; " May 28 Chauncey Olcott appeared in "A Romance of Athlone; " and the season closed June 2, 1900, on which date Mr. Pitou's lease expired.
The theatre was reopened August 25, under the management of J. H. Springer, with " The Belle of New York ; " Sept. 3 Eugenia Blair was seen, in " A Lady of Quality ; " Sept. 10 Hope Booth came, in "A Wife in Pawn;" Sept. 17 "Why Smith Left Home" was done; Sept. 24 "Dairy Farm" came; Oct. i, "Telephone Girl;" Oct. 8 Louis James, Katherine Kidder, and company appeared in " A Midsummer Night's Dream; " Oct. 15 "Le Voyage En Suisse" was revived; Oct. 22 "Eight Bells" returned; Oct. 29 Mr. and Mrs. Ray were seen, in " A Hot Old Time ; " Nov. 5 Herbert Kelcey and Effie Shannon presented " My Daughter-in-Law ; " Nov. 12 James J. Jeffries, the pugilist, was seen in the drama " A Man from the West ; " Nov. 19 came " Woman_ and Wine ; " " Mme. Butterfly " and " Naughty Anthony '' were played Nov. 26 ; the former drama had this csSt^
Cho-Cho-San, Madame Butterfly
Blanche Bates Mr. Sharpless . Claude Gillingwater Lieut. B. F. Pinkerton, Frank Worthing Yamadori .... Albert Bruning Nakado E. P. Wilks
Suzuki Mary Barker
Kate Katharine Black
" Trouble " Little Kitty
..^ J . < Westropp Saunders
Attendants . j William Lamp
" The Girl from Maxim's," with May Hampton as Mme. Lautignol was seen Dec. 3 ; Andrew Mack came Dec. 10 in " The Rebel ; " " The Highwayman," Dec. 17; Denman Thompson came Dec. 24 and stayed for two weeks, in " The Old Homestead ; " Louis Mann and Clara Lipman appeared Jan. 7, 1901, in "All on Account of Eliza; " Ward & Yokes returned Jan. 14, in " The Floor Walkers ; " " Hearts are Trumps" was done Jan. 21 ; Harry Lacy came Jan. 28, in " Still Alarm ; " Feb. 4, "In Old Kentucky;" Feb. 11 Peter F. Dailey was seen, in "Hodge, Podge & Co. ; " Feb. 18, " Lost River" was done; Feb. 25 Marie Dressier was seen in "Miss Print;" March 4, "At the White Horse Tavern;" March 11, "Barbara Frietchie," with Effie Ellsler as the heroine; March 18 came ' Quo
652 A HISTORY OF THE NEW YORK STAGE C1901
Vadis ;" March 25, May Irwin, in " Madge Smith, Attorney ; " April I, The Rogers Brothers ; April 8, Frank Daniels in " The Ameer; " "Sapho," April 15, with Sadie Martinot in the title r61e; April 22, " Hodge, Podge & Co. ; " April 29, Williams and Walker's colored show ; " Papa's Wife " came May 6 for two weeks, with Anna Held as the star; May 20, Gus Hill's " Liliputians ; " May 27, Prof. Herrmann, the magician ; June 3 Carl Haswin came, in " The Silver King; " June 10 "A Wise Guy" was seen, with specialties including James Corbett, the pugilist. The season closed June 15.
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