The New York Clipper (December 1904)

1082 the asraaw yobk ©IjIppeb. December 31. HEW TOIIK CITT. Review and Coaiasent.—The week be- fore Christmas irf'iftrS'ji dreadedby" the average theatrical manager, and last weak ■bowed the usual falling off In attendance at tbe' local hoiisca, with a few notable ezcep- tlone, where big bualneai ruled. Tfala week will reverse the order of things and big busi- ness is confidently expected by our managers. At the CSlTCBION Thbateb, Dec. 10, "A Wife Without a Smile," a coned;, In three acta, by A. W. Plnero, was given Its firat Amerl- I'rurlor ■ fifth Avenne Theatre (3. Austin Fynes, ! general manager). — "Captain IWpndence* Is this week's revival by the stock Company. Edwin Ardcn did his usual force Proetor'e Fltty-elchtli Street The- atre (J. Austin Fynes, general manager).— At this house Klrko La Bhellc presents "Checkers," whlcti was neir to tbi patrons of ney Ayres; Major Hr.nnlbai Bugg, Gerald Griffin ; Sergeant Tatters. George Howell; Sentinel O'Brien, Arthur Shaw: Jovltn Tala- tnanca, Beatrice Morgan; Lueretla Bugg, Marlon Berg; Mrs. Trigg, Oertrudo Berkeley, lh the vaudeville were Powell's electric thea added, all cleverly executed; Lloyd's dogs, In some away-froin-the-ordlnary tricks, which scored big; Mossit, In a line musical spe- cialty ; La Bolle Blanche, an Impersonator of well known players: Zlmmer. the "up-sldc- down" juggler: the Blodgett Sisters, singera and dancers; ltay Cox, singing comedienne; Dclchanty and Hackett.* with Illustrated songs, nnd the motion pictures. C«»inn (Sam H. A Lee Bhubort, mntin- gors).--Lllllan Rusacll made her New York re-entry na a alar, evening of Dee. 24. In "Lady Teazle," a two act musical version of Sheridan's comedy, "School for Scandal," In which she appeared to greater advantage than In any of her starring ventures during tho past decade. Her metropolitan Introduc- tion under the Shubort banners, which was plnys—with some tuneful and dainty solos and concerted numbers, the opening night encoring of which proved a delight, and not a bore, as la too often the case. The book of tho p|ece is by John Kendrlck Bangs and Roderick C. Peuflcld, nnd tho music was com- posed bv A. Baldwin' Sloane, the Initial pro- duction bclug'given lit the Academy of Music, Haltlinoro, lid., on Dee. ID. The authors have adhered closely to the scenes of Sheridan's play, the famous auctioning of the family paintings and tho great Bcrecn scene being given as we hnvo been accustomed to seeing them, but with musical dressing In this Instance. Mr. Hloauo's music was as a rulo bo good Mint he may readily be excused for carrying, nt I linen, the memory back to other operatic: scores III u few of Ills numbers. Upon Miss ltussell, however, honors wcro fairly showered, and beyond question she was'deserving of theia. She looked younger by a nniubor of years than she did when New Yorkers had their lust stupe glimpse of her, and alio disclosed acting powers which few have given her the credit of possessing, her work hi the screen scene givlug keen de- can production. It failed to nnd favor tre, a beautifully set act of mannlkln enter- Other Monday night openings were: At tha talnment; the Tjirco Vnldarcs, in their groat PatNCEss Thmm Robert B. Msntell an- ^>"»* -■•». »."« »««!•»?. ***** l peared In "Iilchellen," at the poosTSBOTBt Htiieet Th rates Andrew Mack revived "Tom Moore," at the Third AVBNira Tiidame "At Risk of His Life," and at the Ibvino Fuca Tiieatbb a revival Of "Sodom's Endc." At the' last named house, Thursday night, 22, Gerbart Uauptmaaa's "Die Vorsunkene Glocke" ("The Sunken Bell") was revived. ......At the Madison'Squabb Gaudd* an exhibition, entitled the Pike, was opened Monday, and drew good attendance through- out the week At the New AhstebdAm Tiibatbb, on Friday afternoon, 28, Eleanor Itobson gave a special matinee performance of "Merely Mary Ann," having just returned from her successful engagement In London, Eng. At tho Casino, Saturday, 24, Lillian ltussell and company gave the first New York City presentation of "Lady Teazle," a two act comic opera, book by John Kendrlck Bangs and Itoderlc Penfleld, nnd music by A. Baldwin Sloane. A review of the work, which Is founded on "School for Scandal," will be found elsewhere In this issue..... .The continued attractlona for the week ending Dec. 24 wcro: Annie ltussell at 1110 Gamiick, "It Happened In Nordland" at the Lbw Fihldb, James K. Hackett at the I.vine, Charles Wyndham. at the New Li- cgum, "Humpty-Dumpty" at tlie New Am- ktuiwam, Ethel Barrjmore at the Hudson, "lltgglcdy-PIggledy" at tho Wfjbeii Music Ham,, May Irwin at the Bijou, "Tho siio- Guu" at Wallack'h, David Warfleld at n«- i.akco'8, "The College Widow" at the Gab- iiiin, Mrs. Flake and stock company at tha Manhattan, "Mrs. Wlggs of tbe Cabbage Patch" at tho Savor, the acrman' Stock Co. nt the Ibviko. Placb, "Tho Wlxard of Ox" at the At'Aimsiv of Music, ltoberb B. Man- tel I at the PniNCEHS, Nat C. Goodwin at the Knickkiuiockkii, John Drew at the i: units, Edna May at tho Hkrami Squaiu:, "Wood- land" at tho Nhw York, Oeorgo Cohan at the Liubrtv, llertha Galland at the Ma- jkhtic, the Itiiys at tho Amhiiican, and An- drew Mack at the Koubtbhntii Strbet, the nine last named closing on that date. At I'liecTim'a FiFTrr Avgncd and One Bundbbd UNI) TWKNTV-KIl-TK STREET THBATBB8 Stock productions, with vaudeville between acts, continued The one wook stands closing it wore: "At Risk of His Life" at tha Third Avenub "Why Girls Leave Home" at the Windsob, "The Female Detectives" at tho Giiand Opera Hodbb, Henry Miller »f Ihe HARU13I On: ha Hot)8B, "Tbe Sign of the I'our" at the Wbst End, "Tracked Around the World" at the Metropolis, "Uncle Tom's Cabin" at the Stab, and "Down by the Sea" at tho Olympic Variety entertainment was furnished at tho Victoria, the Yobk- villb, tho circle, Kami's Union 8qca«b, ritocTOR'B Twr.Ntv-THinD StbBet, Toftt Fab- mil's. Proctor's Fifti-eicihth Strbbt, the London, the Dhwbv, Miner's 1 Eighth Avb- hvk, Minrr's Bowsnt, Hun-no It Siauon'b and the Gotham. At Hubeb's Musxult tha usual long list of curios and vaudeville was offered For the week ending Dee. 24 (fifth week) the bills at the Metropoli- tan Opera Hovbb were: Monday night, II), "La Travlata," with tho following cast: Vlolctta, Mine. Sombrlch; Aniiinu, Mme. Bnuermclster; Flora Bc'rvolse, Mme. Jacoby; Alfredo, Mr. Caruso; Giorgio Germont, air. Scottl; Bsrone Duphol, Mr. Bars; Dottors Grenvll, Mr. Heguo;' Marchess d'Oblgny, Mr. tiufricbe; Gastone, Mr. Glordaul. Arturo Vlgna conducted. Wednesday night, 21, "Illgolotto" was thus cast: Gtlda, Mme. Beta, bricli; Maddalena, Mme. Louise Homer; Glo- vnnna, Miss Bauermelster I La Contessa, Mme. Helen Maplcson; Un Pagglo, Miss El- liot; II Duca, Mr. Caruso; Rtgoletto, Mr. Glraldonl; Bpnrafuclle, Mr. Journet; Monte- 'rono, Mr. Muhlmann; Marullo, Mr. Bogus; Borsn, Mr. Giordanl; Ceprano, Mr. Greder; Usclorc, Mr. Fanclll. Arturo Vtgna conduct- ed. It was the first performance of tha sea elgnullzcd on the above date, resulted in a complete personal triumph, equaled only by managers'!. — A typical the success of the piece Itself, which proved co ,^i a n, welcomed ■ the a work of rare Intrinsic merit in Its class. r _ ,/ r *_*.■,,. or vw Our music lovers whose tastes run to tbe *- m , f. . f* . ,nt , . ,.' high class In their entertainment arc given McNally's latest musical play, entitled a double treat In this offering, which com- Newport,'' a lot of nonsense. In three act- bines a well told and interesting story—of W | tn lyrics and music by Cole and Johnson more body than la the usual order In musical 1{ < lrgt presented In New Haven Dec. -22. It ro Brabara Jr.: Judge Martin, W. T. Clark; "Uncle Jerry" Halter, Charles Witlard; Mur- ray Jameson, Howard P — dall, Wallace Worsley Joseph Wilkes; the <_.. Cooper: tho Major, Giles B. Warren; the Colonel, Richard Lee; Jasper, George Morrltt: "Chick" Allen, II. Simons: Rufe, Ar- thur W. Owen; Itastus, William loran; Philip Kendall. A. H. Symmons; Bud Ureckenrldge, Claude II. Cooper; HI Pren- dergast, lllchard Lee; Lem 8tevens, Giles R. Warren; Tube, George Merritt; Jim Brown. A. 11. Symmons; "Splint" Egan, Ar- thur W. Owen; Barney O'Brien, James C. Shannon; Captain Tilton, G. It. Warren; Ed. Rnincs, Frank McCoy; Hank Winter, Itlchard Lee: Official Caller, J. C. Shannon; Slmpklns. Ralph Benton; Pert Barlow, Kath- arine Mulklns l Sndie Martlu, Harriet Worth- Inaton: Cynthy. Lydla Dickson: Aunt pel), Kiln Sothcrni Mrs. Watson, Margaret Smith; Mrs. Long. Ktliel Power; Gertrude Neville, Clare Armstrong; Clara Esmond,' Lydla Dickson. This piny, with Its present csBt, continues fot two weeks, after which a con- tingent of thp Proctor Stock Co. will pre- sent "Thelnia." Sunday's concerts attracted the usual large paying" crowds 25. Liberty Theatre (Klaw & Erlangcr, holldny audience Klaw & Erlangcr X, In John J. In acta. I'rorior'. TvreBtT-tblr* Street Tlse- Haw York Theatre (Ktaw & Erlangcr. at^ (J lustTnFy^s. general manager).- nrt M rr.).-"noB.e Folks," a four act com- The holldav crowds at this house on Dec. 20 edy drama, by C. ,T. Daisy, was given lis ^ w .liZrtd BBMii applause was nr*t?New';]?ori< hearing; matinee of Dee. 20, Svcn a bg bm. SlwFuKr Zden head- W^M*1K> g,«Ven , hit talk was voted the'.WsInat Street Tb,6i»tre,' Philadelphia. pee, 12. It inaugtrflted at tho New York tho new scale of prices, and henceforth the beat orchestra seats will be sold at one dollar, with' the scale graded accordingly. A good sized audience sat In Judgment upon the play at the opening matinee, and plainly showed, by tbelr interest, laughter and ap- i', that Mr. Daiey has again ' struck . the right thins in his concoction of thrilling scenes, gooa comedy and generous ■ features. These features, by the way, are go better, while Wilkes. . Al « an ™ w tll ." n ." numerous and most entertaining, nnd In. Johnson, colored comedians, made things , j number of natural pranks by bare- lively and interesting during their timejon f fcJ ^ , ln rea , , b J t , Botany Class." went eve- —— was last shown at a city house, and Rosa German comediansi! Carmen Staters, banjo, Mtanl fun and freedom about the pictures tats. Lew Welch, Hebrew Impersonator, and t IomplDg cul i d ( dn B „a homely country O'Donnell Brothers, In "Casey s Visit. The ||fe „_' tue older "folks" tbat the illu ' motion pictures continue. American Theatre (Klaw, Erlangcr & Wcls, managers).—A warm welcome was ex- tended to a drama, new to this city, on Dec. 20, entitled "Shadows on the Hearth." life by the older "folka" that the illusion was perfect in many of tbe scenes, and the story of the play was quite a thing snnrt, so far as the concern of the audience count- ed. This story, however, was most intense In Its thrilling developments, John Hclby, an Illinois farmer, risking his reputation and Iticlil. Her Hlugluu. too. was generally satis- factory. Van Itcusselacr Wheeler Bang well, pnrllciilnrly in the auction sveue, and bis acting was fully as good its his vocal effort*. Stanley Hawkins, however, made the singing success of the evening! with his clear, sweet voice and remarkably hue cuuncl- ation, and bis playing as Joseph Surface was natural and conv'ncTug. Elsa, Ryan won' a big triumph for her dainty, Ingenuous render- ing of tho sung, "In Dear Old Uvand-iua's Day," and her ro|n received a charming im- personation, .luliii Diaisnioro wos very well liked for his singing, and Lucille SHuudcrs also scored heavily for her vocal efforts. S'r Peter Tcaalo w»s capitally played by w. T, Cailoton, mid Sir Oliver Surface, rccclvcdi' at the bauds of Clarence Ilundysldes, so effective a.portruyal as to win special marks of favor from the audience. Augustus Bar- rett- and Phoebe Coyne wcro also proralucnt In tbe support, incidental to the library scene Nelllo McCoy danced with rare surlght- llncsx.-aud won marked appreciation for the specialty. Tbo co«tumcs wore dainty atid quiet ln coloring, and the scenery, particu- larly tho ballroom scene, which closed tho play, was tasty and pretty; The cast: Sir Peter Teestlc, W. T. Carloton: Sir Oliver Surface, Clarence Handysldes; Sir llenjumln Backbite, Augustus Barrett: Sir Harry Bumper, Jack Taylor; Joscuh Surface. Stan- Iny'llawklns; Charles Surfaco, Van Ilcnsso- lacr Wheeler; Crabtroe, Owen Wcstford: Careless, Albert Wilder; Moses, Edmund Lawreuco; Hnako, John Dunsmure; Trip, Joseph's servent, Albert McGucklh; Mrs. Candour, Phoebe Coyuc: Marin, Elsa Rynn; Molllo. Nellie McCoy: Lady Sueerwoll. Lu- cille Saundora; Lady Tcaslc, Lillian Russell. Circle Theatre (Percy G. Williams, man- ager).—Manager Williams Is presenting his patrons this week with one of bis best offerings lu the way of a carefully prepared programme of vaudeville specialists, capi- tally suited to tbo holiday season. At both shows on Monday, Vce. 20, tho bijou theatre was crowded with patrons, who enjoyed the re- ceived" the stamp of approval which wns more thoroughly sealed-In the big'elty. Of plot there is little, being merely tho story of the efforts of Alert Piuchcrton to sccuro two packets of letters from Fleurctte, a Kronen maid, who bus stolen them, one each, from John Bnnkwcll and his wife. Of course the correspondence Is not such as cither would wish tbe other to know of. From this' thread hangs a lot of songs, dances and rapid fire Jokes. Truth com- pels the statement that, divested of the ser- vices of Fay Toniplclon, Peter l>alley, Vir- ginia Karl and- Joseph Coyne, the perform- ance would fall considerably below the stand- ard of success given It. Fay Tcmplctou,' as Kli'uretti'. was. ns- always, gracious-, charm- ing. Insinuating, alluring and rfvqiir—Just n shade. Hb« never worked better nor ■rand more heavily. Hoe Arab costume was one of the most, gorgeous affairs seen in years, and she surprised many In her re- appearance in male' attire, rotcr Dalley, as Alert, was himself, und that covers a multitude of sins and remarks: he Is as strong n favorite as ever and had everyone happy while on tho stage. Joseph Coyne re- ceived by far tbe most demonstrative wel- come of the Jolly quartette, and again proved his right to be culled an adept In English chiipplc parts. His monocle song was a decided success, owlug' entirely to his sonalltv and clever handling of It. giuia Earlo, looking prettier and daintier than evor, sppr and anted herself deep In the hearts of her auditors, and wore some stunning gowns. The other mciobers of the case wcro fully competent, and the chorus was well -drilled. The lluw settings were very handsome, and tbe costumes were line. Of the songs, the sucecsscs of which were In every Instance due to the ef- forts of the^ singers, "Don't (j 0 Too Dan- gerously Nigh" (Miss ESrlc nod Mr. Coyne), pcr- Vlr- When'I Am Chief of Police" (Mr. Dslley), Ml. Nobody But- You" (Miss -Templeton and Mr. Der. Xlckclmann, Coyne) and "Peggy Is a New Yorker Now" were eminently successful. The piece do icKlstcnoe, however, was tho '"Zcl S5el" of Misses Templeton and Earle, than which no more striking effect has'been : seen ln many a day. Success is spelled large for the play. A special word of praise Is duo Herbert Gresham and Ned Way burn for their clever handling of the ensembles. The cast In full: Alert Plnchcrton. Peter V. Dalley: Percyi Von Alatync, Joseph Coyne; John Bankwcll. Lee Harrison; Nell Nelson, Charles F. MaeDonald: Burton. Alfred Fisher; Harvey Hawes. Louise Kelso; Jim Props, Frank Todd: Viola Cartwrlght, Vir- ginia Earle; Mrs. Jack Bankwell, Edith Ycr- rington; Belle Martelle, Sue Stuart: Malzle Mason, Lillian Hudson: Lillian Balkwell, Elphyo Snowden: Piano Girl, Florence Brcn- nan: May. Alice Palmer; Fay, Irene Palmer; Dnlsy, "Peggy" Lawton; Millie, Gussle Ren- net: Carrie,- Mildred Claire; Lorette, Edith Mllward, and Mile. Ficurettc. Fay Templeton. Broadway Theatre (A. W. Dingwall, mnungcr).—After one week of darkness, dur- ing which Frjtzl Schcff and her company laid off for rehearsals, this house was reopened Monday night. Dec. 20, with tbe resumption of Mme. Scbeff's engagement. Tbo bill chosen *.v, —.»-..-.— — —- llllUUIB, l^lMCli lw»'U(, "»o ivjiuiouuil „|jl Is from the pen of Louis Egan, and was first his life In the defence of youn^ Walter Clay produced at the Opera House; Holyoke, Mass., Nov. 21, of this year. The story of Mr. Egan's drama has appeared in these columns. Mau- ager Arthur O. Alston controls Its destiny, and he has selected it as a vehicle to exploit the talents of James M. Brophy as leading man, and has selected a canablo company for bis support. The drama met with the warm ap- proval of the large audlenco of Monday, and as tho story In its unfolding roveals the complete triumph and vindication of a woman suspected of wrong doing, there was never a moment of doubt regarding Its successful appeal along those lines, wllh an American audience as Its censors. Mr. Brophy was entirely capable, whether as Tom Eaton, the mill band, or when returning as a major froin thO'War. In the opening scenes he was natural and easy In tlie role, and in tbe later -scenes, requiring force, patlios and In- tensity, he fully met every requirement of the lines and situations. • The- drama Is prettily staged, and Manager Alston lias a capable company to Interpret Mr. Egan's drama, which is produced here under the direction of Kstha Williams. Tbe enst: Ton! Easroii. James M. Itrophy; George' Ber- rk-k, John J. Plersoii: Rev. Arthur Irving, Ben S. Meats: 'Fred Vaugbsn. Thos. U. Ince; Corporal Berrlck. Maurice Hedges i Amos Pol- lock, Percy Plnukctt: Hungry Jasper, Charle) Avnrv : Ned Berrlck, J. Frank Gibbons ; Heury Derrick, Will Emerson ; Jack Holloway, Frank Mackln: Hill llartlctt, William J. Malson; Deacon Rurns, Frank Gibbons: Kate Berrlck, (IcrtrudJ O'Mallev: Nell Berr|ck, Adeline Muun: .Mnriii Berrlck, Rita Harlan; Mrs. Pollock. Annie Mortimer: Mrs. Eaton, Eliza- beth Morgan. Moll MoMsnus, Louise yal- icntinc.' Business staff: Arthur C. Alston, proprietor and manager; George 8. Abbott, business manager; John J. l'lerson, stage manager; Charles Devlin, carpenter: Harry Abbott, property man. Next week, "Mo, Him and I." IrviiiK Place Theatre.—Manager Con- rled revived "Die Vcrsuokeno-Glocko" ("The Sunken Bell") Thursday' evcBlngV Dec. 22, with a splendid production. Hedwh; Von Ostermann was excellent as Rauteudclcln. Others in tlie cast were; Hclnrlch, Paul Ilageu'ann: Magda, Mnrgaretlie Ruhuikorf; Kinder belder^ Clara KOst and Olga nodon- hauser; Den Pfarrer, Otto Meyer: Der Scbul- meister, Hermann Gerald;' Der ' Bkrbler, Will* Prey:'Die Naehbarln, Marie v. Wc- lllc alto Wlttlclietn Elisabeth Arluans; Nlckclmann. Hclnrlch Marlow: Eln Wald-'cbrat. August Mcyer-Elgen; Erstc Elfe, Magda Norm an u; Zivelte Wife, Fellaltas Ru- dlgur; Dritte Elfe, Rose Bosec: Vlerte Elfe, Hilda Rraun. iicivcy Theatre (Sullivan & Kraus, man- agers).—Fred'.Irwin's New Majesties Bur- lesque Co. started the week here Monday, Dec. 20, to two- packed houses, and 1 tbe show gave the best of satisfaction. Two bur- lesques were given, both of which were pre- sented with very competent casts. There wcro no dull moments while tbe show was In progress. Both burlesques were extreme ton, who has escaped from Dan Klntroll's gang of desperados, aqd is hidden In John's house. Ruth Clayton, Walter's sister, Is loved by John, who naturally exhausts every means within his power to save tbe brother. He outwits a gang of lynchers who have been erroneously led to believe by Paul Nlles, a no-account suitor for tbe hand of Ruth, that Walter Is a horse thief, and finally makes It possible for Walter to leave the country. John then traps Paul and Dan Kintrell, prov- ing tbe former to be the real thief and spy, thus clearing Walter's name of all suspicion. The final curtain leaves the patb smooth for John and Rutb to tread it straight to the al- tar, and Walter's little sweetheart, a reformed girl, who has formerly been In the Kintrell gang, Is also lifted to a better life, with marriage bells as a not far distant prob- ability. The stage management was re- markably good, and E. W. Presbrcy, who had that department ln charge, may well feci proud of his' work, a big corps of boys and girls being handled cleverly In many big scenes where the stage was crowded with people. The verdict of the audience at the opening performance was distinctly favorable, and If the work receives its just deserts it will remain in this city for the rest of the season. William Ingcrsoll played John Sclby with quiet forcefulness. arid Crystal Heme whs demure and decidedly charming as Ruth. Julie Heine made an especially attractive figure ns the uncouth and unkempt girl of Kldtiell's gang, acting with marked ability. Thomas A. Wise made a comedy success in Ills role, and Arthur Saunders, whose crabbed old man was a clever bit; Samuel Reed and diaries Stedmau ail scored big successes in character roles. The role of the villain was excellently handled by W. S. Hart, and tho youthful Walter was played with ability by Walter Thomas. Frances Stevens gave to the character of Polly, the hired girl, dis- tinctive marks of ekllliulnoss. and Ida Water- man won a success as John's mother. The children's roles were all well played, but Jack Ryan, as Bert, and Howard Sloat, ns Bud, deserve special mention, because they were good beyond the usual as buys Just well Into their teens. Tbe cast: John Selby, William Ingersol!; Joe Haa-klns, Thomas A. Wise! Squlro Andrews, Samuel Reedi Old Mat Nlleu. Arthur Sanders; si Heckle, Charles Stodman t Paul Mies, W. tj. Hart; Walter Clayton, Walter Thomas: Pan Kintrell, ChSrles Lamb: Lem Brown. Charles Mason: Hank' Hosklos, Morton McKlui; Bert. Hopkins. Jaekf Ryan; Bud Heckle, Howard Sloat: Rutb Clayton, Crystal Heme; Mrs, Martha Belby, Ida Waterman; 81s Dur- kee, Julia Herns; Polly Hopkins, Frances Stevons; Sadie-Heckle, Rosa Marston; Pearl Snyder, Alice ' Brabam; Suslo Galloway, Dcslflo Lasard: Maud Miller, Belle Daubc; Mrs. Jaae Penlck, Myra Brook. Pastor's Theatre (Tony Pastor, mana- ger).— A'Merry Christmas matinee audience assembled, Dec 20 to witness a flnb bill on which tho Empire City Quartctto held the headline position. Their act invariably scores heavily, and this was no exception. Gus Wil- liams" was as laughable- as ever, telling ly well staged. The first Is entitled "Is tho clever stories and Jokes, and won well earned i ' In which the following take applause.He Is always sure of a hearty Tenderloin, excellent "MU to the full. Particularly wol come and appropriate at this time Was the was Franz Von Suppe's three act comic opera, magical act of Howard Thurston. With entitled "Fatlnltta.' in which the fair star sung the rolo of Gllda, but owing to her Indisposition Mme. Bcmbrtch took her place. Eugcnlo Glraldonl sang the title-role for Ills first time lu America, and Adolph Muhl- mann was heard tor the drat time lu this city ns Moutcroue. Thursday, 22, "Parsifal" was given lis last evening performance this season. Mme, Nordica sang the role of Kundry, and Andreas Dlppel made his first appearance this season In Parsifal, Marcel Journet was tlie Gurnemans, Anton Van Rooy was tbe Ainfortas, and Adolph Muhl- aunni was tho Tlturel. Friday night, 21), "Faust" was glvon for the first time this ptason, with this cast: Marguerite, Mme. Kmtna Eames; Slobol, Mme. Jacoby ; Marthe, Miss Bauermelster; Faust, Mr. Salens; Me- nu Istophclcs, Pol Ptancen; Valentin, Mr. Gl- raldonl; Wagner, Mr. Rogue, It was Eu- gculo GIraldlno'a first American appearance ns Valentin. Nabaa Franko conducted. Saturday matinee. 24, "L'Kllsir D'Amorc" was given, with this cast: Adlna, Mine. Scmbrkhi Gluuetta. Miss Mulford; Nemo- rlno, Mr. Caruso; Bclcore, Ml*. Scottl; Dul- camara, Mr. Roast. Arturo Vlgna conducted. langlcal .. ft stage sotting, of mystical splondov and the truly Eastern atmosphere which seemed to exist, Mr. Thurston performed Gtcmlngly Impossible feats of legerdemain, and llluslous of his own creation, which fairly surprised his audiences. The splen- did bill also Includes tha Kauffman Troupe, eight In number, who do tho most surprising feats of 'rvclc riding with such unlquo grace and facility ns to almost detract from Its u - bill; Carl- appeared fan clover playlet, cntltlcd""AJrlmelyA.wak ea. it wns ino nrsi performance ox uio oca- "-",.• -"■"", " , tl s~ f„„,„ii n t th.i tea of "Rlgoletto." Mme. Melba was to have J 0 0 n r,1 M a«y a and Ida? May° f Hall «,.- _«i—. n>u. ■...>. —.1— »~ ■... (u „ t ,| 0VCr playlet, entitled "A Timely Av cnlng," with tnarkml favor. Press Ehjrldgo scored his usual happy success in his original munolognc, his new sougs going particularly strong, as they are Biing by no one but him- self; tho Three Crane Bros, kept the audi- ence In roars of laughter during their entire act: Koran Bans sang sweetly; Harper, Des- mond and Bullcy < their debut hero) proved to bo a trio of clever singers and dancers: Francis Gerard, also a debut here, appeared in a gymnastic novelty; the Threo Barretts, expert Jugglers; nnd the American vitagraph, Third Avenue Theatre (Martlu J. Dixon, manager).—Lincoln J. Carter's pro- duction, entitled "Too Proud to Beg," was the holiday bill 2fi and week. The ploy was cast as follows: John Corr, Fred Eckhart; Inspector Sharp. A. u. Lynds; Mark Klaw, the Spider, W. M. Sheldon: Myers, Chas. H. Gardner; Voders, i^owis. Chevalierj Isaac Blum. Jake Simons:- Pedro, James White; Willie CHrr, Arthur Boylsn; Vera Carr, Mil- dred Bovlsn : Spike, Clarence Dull; Billings, W. J. Cmnmlngs; Dawson. Jack Mason; Police, Cal Spencer: Nellie Carr. Mary Ber- vhss: Bridget O'Rook, Nellie Fillmore;Maud Qulglcy, Estolln Vincent: Mother BCal, Stella iiovlan. Next week, "Escupod from Sing Slng.V Weber Music llnll (Weber & Zlcgtold, inagors).—"Higgledy-piggledy" Btartcd its ■-week Doc. 20. :Marle Dressier - mart , tenth - Move] ger-BetrUque) Mtrcelline, Bells Altsn ; Flo- roatan, W. Pliffpel: Pizarro. Mr. aorltt; Rnecri, Mr. Rlase: Jarqulno,- Mir. Relsa: Der Minister, Mr. Muhlmann. Alfred lfert* con- ducted. It was the llrst poifili'liiuuccs of these operas this acajou. played the title role. It has been a- number of years since this pleasing work has been presented lu this city, and never has it been more admirably presented than In the present Instance. Mme. Soheff lias firmly established herself ln public favor, a Just reward'tor her excellent work, but sho lias never had so good au opportunity aa tbat which "Fatinltza" offers her. Never has she bcon mora charming, and the salvos of applause given her wore hearty lu the extreme. Sho made a pretty figure In the Jaunty cos- tume of tha young Russian lieutenant, and there is little doubt that her pleasing per- sonality will lend new Ufo and popularity to Von Suppe's opera. Albert Hart was capital as the gruff old general, and Louis Harrison's humor found good vent in tho role of lszett Pasha. Richie Ling was excellent as the American ■ war correspondent, and Campbell Donald, except for au Inclination to overact the part, was good as Mustspha. The others did well. As. to the production Manager Charles B. Dillingham has glveu his star a handsome setting. The..work is elaborately staged, the Winter sceno of act one (which Is a triumph of tho scene painters' art) being especially worthy of praise. The chorus Is well drilled and includes many pretty flrls, who sing well, Tlie cast In full: lieutenant Vladimir (Fatlnltxa), Fritzi Schcff: General Kantcbukoff, Albert Hart; Princess Lydla, Elaine De Sellem: luzett Pasha, Louis Harrison; Julian Sinclair, lttehlo Ling: Sergeant Stelpann, Arthur Cunningham; Hassan Bey. Otto Wedde- meyer; Mnstaphn, Campbell Donald; Cap- tain Vassili, F. M Boyd; Lieutenant Osslp. Henry Cootc; Vulka. A. Barbara; Hanna, Mabel Allen: Dlatilrl, Ida Hawley: Fedor, I.nulso I.e Baron; Ivan, Ada Meade: Casl- mlr, Ha Nlles: Grcgor, Bertha Holly; Michel, draco Spencer; Marahaldshi, Josephine Rart- lett: Murlsdah. Ida Hawlay: Dions, Louise i,e Baron: Zulelka, Ha Nlles: Ilesika, Ada Meade; Odalisque, May MoCoy. .- Victoria-Theatre (Oscar Hammersteln, manager).—The bill for week, of Dee. M Includes: Horse show, Staley and Birbaok, parf! Mike Clancy, Larry McCato; Myer Scliultz, Gus Fsy;'Untie lilram, T. J. Fsr- lou Jr.; Dick Doom, Rich Anderson; J6hn Rcllly, Billy Noble; Willie Tinsel. Belie Wil- ton ; Oussie Spangle. Marie Harrison; Dollle Dimples, Maude Harvey; Jaunta Mann, Evelyn Walker; Tenderloin Liz, Ray Wal- lace: Annie Moslty, Myrtle Paul; Mary Gold. Kitty Ordon; Sarah Nade, Etta GoOdrldae ; Jessie Mine. Harrlcttc Belmont; Hester lclc, Mamie Mitchell: Annie Mation, Ethel Rosa ; Millie TSry,- Gertrude Bellatzcr; Ella Phant, Mia Bcltaczer: Catlle Sthenics, Martha Bellatzcr; Polly Con, Francesca Bel- latzcr : Mcta Orlc. Edith Bellatzer. in tbe olio which was given between tbe burlesques, the following were seen to advantage. Harvey nud Walker, singers; Anderson and Wallace, In a clever sketch, called "Professional Life; the Bellatzer Sisters, gymnasts, and Farron and Fay, German comedians. The show closed with "For Girls Only,'" and again the ser- vices of tbe whole company were enlisted. Wm, Morrison Is musical- director; Jttko Johnson, electrician: Tom Ross, stage manager, and Mme. De Young, wardrobe mistress. Next week, Bon Ton- Burlesquers. London Theatre (James II. Curtln, man- ager);—The Knickerbocker BurlesqncrB had excellent .houses 2(1, but tho matinee perform- ance was given with the house scenery,' as the sets for the show were delayed eit route from Boston, They arrived on time for the evening'show. "Riley's Speech," with Frank Finney ns ltlley. was u big laugh - producer. "The Musical Babies" and tha Church City Quartet's selections were acceptable Interpo- lations. "The Escaped Lunatic" film was applauded between tbo acts.' Act 2 Intro- duced "La Danse do Surprise," a, beautiful ballet; Frank Finney, with parodies of- funny calibre, and the Jewel Ballet, another showy display of terpslcbore. Next week, the Thor- oughbreds. Miner's Eighth Avenne Theatre (Ed- wlii D. Miner, manager).—Fulton's Jolly Grass Widows appeared matinee of Dec. 28 In a nonsensical bill of faro served up In courses to suit their listeners, who received them as only a burlesque hungry holiday crowd can. That the performance was a credit to the management goes without say- ing, and from curtain -to curtain It was a feast of laughter and a how of generous, spontaneous applause. Praise universal Is the fairest method, for otherwise one would simply have to mention every Individual and Include the scenery, costume's, music and effects. Tho two jierformaiices were a happy ■ opening and closing; : to a holiday show. Yorkvllle Theatre (Mayer R. BImberg, ' house was granted .Us full .r Main bIbiIm her nart. AUmc AruSles. Includes: Horee show, Stahw' aaa BUNcx, manager),-^bIs house was'granted't_ waVaSoouVof Tha otst rttuVnedaT: the B°«r» -«•»!■»»• ?? m P , SfaP M i:$ Jr ]2 "55 shitra'oFiolMay patronaSe. tE«7p«fil»l ™»U- r** So 80 °K fToiuiV of WidoWs." a Grace La RMie, Fred Nlblo and Yorire and nee of Monday,*Dee. 2<Tdra^ng r a big crowd. whJ t liitrl(wqne"ni» "Tlie ('olh'gy" W'dowi'' Is Iwlng rehearsed for ptesciiiiillon .Ian. 2. This will lie JOlUvwad souu by a tvuvestj ou Adiinis. snvov Theatre (Frank McKee, mana- Leflh ger).—"Mrs.- Wlag* of the Cabbage P*.lcL," coinucuced its eoventcouth week p»c ?ft ng a big crowi AiinomicenieiiiH fnr this Week are: Stuart, the "Male Tn It!;" Pulley mi A Madison. Drown, Harris mid lirnwu, the Musical - an^.Trcak,' CMlgi «m-Polli applause: welcome at'this boose. Harris and Walters, In "A Dark Eyed Widow," were clever; White and Simmons, with their "Get In do Band Wagon 1 ' turn, kept all In-good humor; Wills nnd Morris do a good black face, act: the Three Rio Brothers do a ring act which calls forth enthusiastic applause; Martin and Qulgg, as eccentric comedians, In A Man and a Half," scored easily. Others meeting with success wore: Kennedy anil Kennedy, In a lot of nonsense; La Mar and ltcba'n. ■ faroeure; Hlaco nnd Idallnc, acro- bats; Gardner Bros., In a burlesque on "Ilirh- Bid III," and Ella Richards, on the tight wire; camera scenes and the vitagraph closed the bill. Miner'* Bowery Theatre (Tom W. Miner, 1 raanaiger).-^The Cherry Blossoms played to two old time Bowery audiences Christmns Day, Dec. 20. "Tho Girl from Shanlcy's" wns tho title of the opening bur- lesque, with Lillian Perry In tho title role. ThC olio presented Burt Fuller, a successfu mimic and comedian; Lydla Carlisle and Llllle Perry, Seymour and Hill, lu a lively comedy act: the New York Comedy bour, n "The- Toodtc's Trust," presented by. t. «• t'rollns. Addle St. Alva, James O. Gaylor and Tiny Graff, and the Mound City Quartette (C. J. sauter/ Hal Morgan, Thomas Duffy nnd M, J. O'itoiirkD). "Look Out Below, the burlesque, again used the entire company. The Incidental songs were well uut on, ami liundsomc costumes were exhibited by tuo girls.' Next ■weck; , Harry Bryant's Co. MaJcatlo Theatre (John S. Flaherty, manager).—'Tiff! Paffl! Pouf!!!" returned to tlio city Dec. 2o; opening with a matlneo and took'tip the reins of laughter where they were dropped some weeks Sgo. The cast re- mains" virtually the Same and the same enter- taining features continue to Invite crowds. "Ilabes In Toylaod" returns Jau. 2, for three Atlantic Garden (W. Krsmor's Sons, managers).—Tho Imperial Japanese xtoiipo of acrobats, the Hollands, the-clown and the doll; Harry Burgoyne, thfl character com- edian: White and Arlington, the colored sketch team; Zadonas presenting Toe, TramP and the Lady," and the moving pic- tures are tbe attractions for this week. Grand Opera Hoaea (John 11. Springer, manager).—Geo. M. Cohan, with his merry company, In "Little Johnny Jones," openea a week's engagement to a tremendouB audi- ence, and the box office Indicates a banner week. Always ft West side favorite, ho seems to 'be more popular than : ever. Next week Lulu Glaaer. In "A Madcap Princess. Windsor Theatre (A. H. Woods, mana- ger).—"The Queen of tho White Slaves" drew two big'houses Dec. 28, and the frequent exalting scene* were eagerly followed and ap- plauded. Next week. "The Child Wife." Ne* I.Vf-enm Thentr* (Daniel Fro*, num. manager).—Churlca Wyndham and BW company, in "Mrs. Gorringe's Necklace, w»-