Great War Theatre

Examiner of Plays' Summary:

This is the English version of an American revue, even more incoherent in its bustling action than are our own specimens of its dramatic order. Its slender plot, which opens in the trying-on room of a theatrical costumier, hinges upon the sudden elopement of a 'star' on the eve of a comic opera production. For a chorus girl, anxious to take her place, there are provided, by the aid of a press-agent opportunities for distinction in burlesque of sporting drama and of cinema show. This motive, however, dies out with the departure of the troupe from a railway-station officered by women in Honolulu, where it is the intention of the press-agent to 'discover' the chorus girl and boom her as a new 'star'. Later on comes some wireless telegraphy business, while in contrast with this clowning we have already had the smarter humours of 'Aristocracy Day' at Harridge's Stores, where a Matrimonial Remnant Sale, with Robert Hale as auctioneer, is attended by various ladies including a Lady Diana Customs otherwise Manners. The fun here, and elsewhere is impudent but harmless, provided that no offence is imported into it by the comedian to whom most of it is allotted. From Act 2 p.4 however there should be omitted the vulgar joke about some female lingerie which has fallen out of a man's kit-bag and is said to be evidently "your Kit's bags". Care too must be taken as to the decency of the Honolulu dresses. Recommended for Licence. Ernest A. Bendall. [Written in blue ink below is the following] I think danger, if any, rests with the Comedian more than with the Honolulu girls but I think a warning in both matters will be advantageous and adequate. S. [Written in black ink below and dated 15/2/16 is the following] W. Butt gave his assurance that W. Hale would be specially warned as regarded doubtful gag [sic] in the auctioneering scene and that the Honolulu dresses were above suspicion [illegible initials] [On a separate sheet are the following additional comments on the licensing of additional scenes, dated 19 February 1916] These additional scenes, including a quarrel on the stage between some principals about the relative merits of their parts: some chaff about the low comedian's interruptions of the leading lady's songs: and a satire upon the treatment and sentiments of alien enemies in England - are Recommended for Licence Ernest A. Bendall. [On a separate sheet are the following additional comments on the licensing of additional material, dated 14 April 1916] New Songs, "Robinson Crusoe" and "Slumberland", together with new scene for ladies and gentlemen playing at war-economy in the Park are Recommended for Licence. Ernest A. Bendall.

Licensed On: 15 Feb 1916

License Number: 59

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British Library Reference: LCP1916/3

British Library Classmark: Add MS 66124 G

Performances

Date Theatre Type
16 Feb 1916 Empire, London Unknown Licensed Performance