Parker’s Appeal

‘The exploits of Parker as exhibited through the genial and broadly comical stage personality of Charles Austin have long formed one of the most attractive features of modern variety entertainment, and music-hall patrons have lingered lovingly over Parker’s many phases of character. In his latest incarnation – as shown in “Parker’s Appeal,” which was seen for the first time at the Surrey last week - he is in congenial employment at a brewery (brewer’s red cap and all), but has a rather unpleasant time at the hands of the president of a local military tribunal. The piece, which is in three scenes, and has been written by Charles Austin himself, first shows Parker, in the bosom of his family, getting the shock of his life by the receipt of his calling-up papers; and afterwards, in the next scene, there is some characteristically humorous business with Parker flogging up his courage outside the tribunal and getting scant comfort from his “pals” as they come out after the dreaded ordeal. Once before the greybeards, however, Parker enjoys himself for a time, especially when the president and his associates retire to luncheon, and there is a pretty serving-maid to flirt with. During this interval Parker also dons the president’s chain of office, and makes short work of the appeals of several applicants who come before him. Finally, when the president returns, Parker’s own appeal is dismissed; and then, in a sudden rhetorical, patriotic outburst, he declares that he is deeply ashamed of himself for having made it at a time when the country wants men, and so on. This outburst so impresses the president that he readily agrees to grant any one “last request” that Parker may make, and Parker, as may well be imagined, makes a pretty stiff one – that he be exempted from military service until the termination of hostilities! The curtain thus falls upon a note of hearty laughter; nor is most of the laughter that precedes the curtain fall any the less spontaneous or cordial. “Parker’s Appeal,” in short, should serve Charles Austin in excellent stead until the happy time ahead when tribunals will be almost forgotten. It is a wholly addition to the already lengthy Parker series, and not a little of its attraction lies in its broad and genial satire upon certain military tribunal methods. Mr. Austin has in it the assistance of a capital company, and the general success of the piece was never for a moment in doubt at the Surrey last week’. The Stage, 25 October 1917.

‘Charles Austin gives the cleverest and most amusing skit on the Tribunal that has yet been seen in Birmingham in his sketch, “Parker’s Appeal,” a scream from beginning to end. Austin is as funny as he has ever been in this sketch, and assisting him is quite a good crowd of comedians, whose names do not appear on the programme’ (Evening Despatch, 23 October 1917). ‘Mr. Charles Austin’s latest “Parker” sketch, which was at the Surrey Theatre last week, proved quite as funny as its predecessors. This time we see Parker as a brewery employee, who has to appear before the Local Tribunal at 7 o’clock that evening. In this first scene, which takes place in his home at 5 o’clock, many funny scenes occur; and in the second, outside the Tribunal, there are also numerous amusing incidents. In the third scene, the Tribunal, we see Parker for a time impersonating the Mayor, and finally, after his wife has given him away, he is ordered to join the Colours on the morrow. Parker thanks the Mayor for making him see his duty, and declaring his joy at doing it; but his last request, readily granted by the Mayor before knows its purport, is that he (Parker) may be excused service “until the war is over.” Mr. Charles Austin acts very cleverly as Parker, and scores all the time. We are unable to award individual praise to the other members of the cast, as no names are given on the programme, but all are successful’ (The Era, 24 October 1917).

The Western Mail, 8 November 1917, advertised ‘Chas. Austin Presents “Parker’s Appeal”’ at the Newport Empire.

‘With a revue occupying the first place in the programme, and a sketch the second, the usual order of things is reversed at the Middlesex this week. The sketch is Charles Austin’s latest Parker piece entitled “Parker’s Appeal,” and each of its three scenes is chock full of the characteristic humour of the popular comedian. It was fully dealt with in a recent issue of The Stage in connection with its production at the Surrey, and nothing more is needed upon the present occasion concerning one of the most laughable sketches with Charles Austin has hitherto been associated than a brief record of several improvements in the dialogue. The full cast is not given upon the programme, which is rather a pity’. The Stage, 15 November 1917.

Advertised in the Sydenham, Forest Hill & Penge Gazette, 16 November 1917, as ‘a new Farcical Comedy’. Noted in the West Kent Argus and Borough of Lewisham News, 23 November 1917.

Advertised in The Era, 21 November 1917.

Advertised in The Era, 21 November 1917. Listed in Calls For Next Week in The Stage, 22 November 1917.

‘Pride of place at Hackney is given to “Parker’s Appeal,” which is played on robustly comical lines by Charles Austin and his company. The number of laughs secured by Charles Austin in his various farcical sketches must almost constitute a record and this, the latest of the “Parker” series, is quite as funny as any of its predecessors’. The Stage, 6 December 1917.

The Stage, 6 December 1917, advertised the ‘enormous success’ of Parker’s Appeal at the Hackney and Holborn Empires.

The Stage, 13 December 1917, advertised the ‘enormous success’ of Parker’s Appeal at Norwich.

The Stage, 20 December 1917, advertised the ‘enormous success’ of Parker’s Appeal at Ipswich.

The Stage, 27 December 1917, advertised the ‘enormous success’ of Parker’s Appeal at the Shoreditch Empire.

Advertised in The Era, 19 December 1917.

Advertised in The Era, 26 December 1917.

Advertised in The Era, 26 December 1917.

‘The star attraction at Shepherd’s Bush next week will be “Parkers Appeal.” This is Mr Charles Austin’s latest success, burlesquing a topical subject and forming another number in the famous “Parker Series” of sketches' (West London Times, 4 January 1918).

‘Charles Austin heads a list of stars at the Chiswick Empire on Monday. Not many of the public know that Mr. Austin has been presented with the Royal Humane Society’s certificate and medal for life-saving, yet such is the case. “Parker’s Appeal” is the subject selected by this well-known comedian for his Chiswick visit’. Ealing Gazette and West London Observer, 5 January 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 9 January 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 9 January 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 16 January 1918, and in the Eastern Counties’ Times, 18 January 1918.

‘The programme - an exceedingly brilliant one - is headed by Charles Austin, the popular comedian of “Parker P.C.” fame, who is presenting his latest successful sketch, “Parker’s Appeal,” in which, as the inevitable Parker, Austin is found in his funniest mood, laughter loud and long prevailing the whole time he occupies the stage, his comical and witty quips and antics being given off in his own quaint style, proving that he, for one, has not ceased to retain his famous ability and resourcefulness as one of our foremost comedians. A great reception was, of course, accorded Austin and his company for carrying on [despite an air raid warning]’. Holloway Press, 1 February 1918.

‘“Parker’s Appeal,” Charles Austin’s latest comedy sketch, is affording the utmost amusement at the Palace this week’. Hampshire Advertiser, 9 February 1918.

‘At Stratford Empire Chas. Austin presents his latest sketch, “Parker’s Appeal”’. The People, 10 February 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 13 February 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 20 February 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 20 February 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 27 February 1918; the West London Observer, 1 March 1918; and the Richmond Herald, 2 March 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 27 February 1918.

Advertised, and listed in Next Week’s Calls, in The Era, 6 March 1918.

Advertised, and listed in Next Week’s Calls, in The Era, 6 March 1918.

‘Anyone in search of laughter as a tonic for war weariness may have their fill at the Hippodrome, where there is comedy - and good comedy, too - in almost every turn. Leading the way is Charles Austin, who, in another of his Parker sketches, keeps the audience in a constant state of merriment by his burlesques of the supposed scenes both inside and outside a military tribunal’ (Yorkshire Evening Post, 19 March 1918.) ‘At the Leeds Hippodrome there is an attractive and comprehensive variety programme, which contains a number of old favourites. Mr Charles Austin continues his series of “Parker” studies with “Parker’s Appeal,” in which this notorious person is as ridiculous as might be expected front his previous escapades’ (Skyrack Courier, 22 March 1918).

‘There are several good things in this week’s Hippodrome bill. Charles Austin’s new sketch, “Parker’s Appeal,” is a real laughter-maker. Much of the humour is of the healthy and unexpected order, but one incident in scene 3 calls for drastic censoring’ (Liverpool Daily Post, 26 March 1918). ‘Charles Austin, always good for a hearty laugh, has in “Parker’s Appeal,” at the Hippodrome, a capital vehicle for his fun-making’ (Liverpool Echo, 26 March 1918).

‘“Parker’s Appeal,” in which Charles Austin gets an abundance of fun out of a tribunal court, is a sure winner’. Manchester Evening News, 2 April 1918.

‘Mr Charles Austin presents a capital sketch at the Hippodrome entitled “Parker’s Appeal.” Dealing as it does with a tribunal incident, is topical, and probably came with added force in view of other appeals which Mr Austin’s auditors may be framing on the eve of the introduction of the new *Manpower Bill’. Newcastle Journal, 9 April 1918. [* The Military Service Act 1916 specified that men from 18 to 41 years old were liable to be called up for service in the army ... A second Act in May 1916 extended liability for military service to married men, and a third Act in 1918 extended the upper age limit to 51’. (Wikipedia)]

Advertised in the Daily Record, 12 April 1918; and mentioned in the Daily Record, 16 April 1918.

Mentioned in the South Yorkshire Times and Mexborough & Swinton Times, 20 April 1918.

‘Mr. Charles Austin in his new sketch “Parker’s Appeal” at the Hippodrome, is irresistibly funny’. Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 26 April 1918.

‘The short play is one of the most stimulating forms of entertainment, I always think. Of necessity it wastes no time in coming to the point, and yet, if it is good, it is not sudden in its effect. Now “Parker’s Appeal” is good, and not only is it full of plot and quick retort, but in addition it is topical. We all have had either personal experience or first-hand information of Tribunals in these days, and so this little play has a particular poignant pleasure about it. In additional addition and last, though really first, we have the asset of Charles Austin, who plays “Parker” the hero. I wanted to have a talk with Mr. Austin, but just as I began his call came, and he charged on to the stage with a sort of cheery fury. For Charles Austin is a humorist of the natural and high spirited type, and yet he never let us forget that beneath it all he is an artist at heart. The play was written by him, and he is assisted by an extremely able cast, who depict many kinds of ordinary people in a way that go [sic] to make an excellent background for the all-smiling “Parker.” I am not going to detail the plot for you; you must see it for yourself; but I will tell you that “Parker’s” handling of the Tribunal is as masterly as his mastery of us - the delighted audience’. Pall Mall Gazette, 15 May 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 15 May 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 15 May 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 22 May 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 22 May 1918; and noted in The Era, 29 May 1918.

Advertised in the Edinburgh Evening News, 1 June 1918.

‘Charles Austin is a great favourite at the Palace. This week he is as funny as ever in “Parker’s Appeal,” which is one of those series of humorous sketches which gives him plenty of scope. His experiences before the tribunal are funnier than most applicants find them’. Hull Daily Mail, 18 June 1918.

Noted in The Era, 26 June 1918.

‘Laughter reigned at the Empire last evening while Chas. Austin and his company were presenting his latest comedy “Parker’s Appeal,” quite the most consistently funny sketch he has produced since his original “Parker, P.C.” A running commentary upon the plan of a prospective recruit, with many humorous allusions to tribunal procedure, the sketch gives Austin a splendid opportunity for mirth. and he makes the most of it’.(Nottingham Evening Post, 2 July 1918). ‘Chas. Austin, who has made merry in other days with “Parker, P.C.” and “On the Panel” is more than successful at the Nottingham Empire in his topical “Parker’s Appeal.” He infuses a well-written sketch with an abundance of scintillating whimsicalities and, of course, carries the tribunal and incidentally his audience with him to the end' (Nottingham Journal, 2 July 1918).

Advertised in The Stage, 4 July 1918, and the Western Mail, 11 July 1918.

Advertised in the Western Evening Herald, 15 July 1918.

Advertised in The Stage, 25 July 1918.

Advertised in The Stage, 25 July and 1 August 1918.

Advertised in The Stage, 1 August 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 7 August 1918, and the Sydenham, Forest Hill & Penge Gazette, 9 August 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 7 August 1918, and the Woolwich Herald, 9 August 1918.

‘There is a happy land (without tribunals) far, far away. That is for us, some day, if we are good. Charles Austin has found a happy, though certainly not tribuneless, land only as far away as the Palladium this week; but, then, it takes its happy character from his very unique self and his able company. All this gets to the point that Charles Austin and Co. are playing “Parker’s Appeal” - a stirring episode in tribunal life, the humour of which will, I feel sure, appeal to you in the light of personal experience’ (Pall Mall Gazette, 21 August 1918). ‘There in nothing that goes half so far in this world as a little bit of cheek - except, perhaps, a big bit. This truthful truth was brought home to me as I watched Charles Austin as “Parker” in “Parker’s Appeal” dealing with his Tribunal. But it takes an artist to manipulate cheek superlatively, so my advice to you is, if you want some useful tips as to how to do it, go and see Parker! I can still leave you guessing as to his fate and yet tell you that his retort to his precocious wife, who also takes an active part, is: “You just wait till I get back from Mesaplatonica!”’ (Pall Mall Gazette, 28 August 1918).

Advertised in The Stage, 5 September 1918.

Advertised in The Stage, 12 and 19 September 1918; and in the Western Mail, 16 September 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 2 October 1918, and in the Eastern Counties’ Times, 4 October 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 9 October 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 9 October 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 16 October 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 16 October 1918.

Advertised in The Era, 23 October 1918.

‘An important attraction at Shepherd’s Bush Empire next week will be “Parker’s Appeal.” This is Mr. Charles Austin’s latest success, burlesquing a topical subject, and forming another number in the famous “Parker Series” of sketches’. Richmond Herald, 26 October 1918.

‘Charles Austin appears [at the Argyle] in “Parker’s Appeal,” which is extremely funny’ (Liverpool Echo, 5 November 1918). ‘Ever a popular item on a variety hall stage, is the “turn” presented by Mr. Charles Austin and his colleagues. The title does not matter very much as long as “Parker,” represented by Mr. Austin, is playing a leading part. As a matter of fact he always does and ever proves the embodiment of laughter provoking incidents. On Monday night large audiences at the Argyle Theatre welcomed Mr. Austin and his company very heartily, in a new production, “Parker’s Appeal.” It is a “story,” which tells of Parker’s appearance before a Tribunal. Never was such a Tribunal known before, there is some splendid fooling; “Parker’s Appeal” should be heard - and seen’ (Birkenhead News, 6 November 1918).

‘One could sit back with confidence and appreciate all the humour of a tribunal farce - cleverly presented by Mr. Charlie Austin and his excellent company - and no doubt there were many present who saw for the first time the funny side of making an appeal for exemption. This sketch, entitled “Parker’s Appeal,” was the tit-bit of the evening. The man Parker is called upon at short notice to come up for judgment as to his indispensability, and towards a passage into the fighting line he receives the help of his employers in the shape of an immediate, not to say unexpected, relief from civil service. All his troubles crowd upon him after his return home from the day’s work at the brewery, and he leaves for the town hall a beaten and dejected man. Some very “hard cases” he encounters of unsuccessful applicants reduces [sic] his hopes to zero, and he enters upon his short, sad trial, prepared for the worst. Pointed to the path of duty, he patriotically decides to follow it, but after the manner of the man who at the beginning was amazed to be asked to join the Army “with a war on,” he consoles himself with the knowledge that there is no longer any need for his help. Mr. Austin realises and utilises all the openings provided by his highly successful part, and in all the three scenes he displays his talent as a comedian of first-rate ability. We must all agree that the British Empire could never have been saved so splendidly, had not our young men been actuated by entirely different motives than “inspires” [sic] the character portrayed, but the farce is welcome because it is a farce abounding in laughable episodes and because it is played so efficiently by Mr. Austin and those who support him’. Staffordshire Sentinel, 12 November 1918.

‘Charles Austin, in his new production, “Parker’s Appeal,” made visitors to the Bristol Hippodrome fairly rock with laughing, last night. The part of a tribunal applicant gave him unlimited scope for his rare gift of humour, and he made the full use it, and with his excellent company produced twenty minutes or so of unrestrained hilarity’. Western Daily Press, 19 November 1918.

‘At the Grand Theatre, “Parker’s Appeal,” which as the title suggests, has reference to the military tribunals, is an extremely amusing sketch in three scenes. It is a trifle old, now that peace seems within sight, but a good deal of amusement is afforded by reminders, in excellent burlesque, of the many subterfuges that were adopted – happily by a comparatively few persons – to escape military service. Mr. Charles Austin’s humour appeals greatly’ (Birmingham Mail, 26 November 1918). ‘A comedy sketch, entitled “Parker’s Appeal,” in which Charles Austin figures as the applicant before a tribunal, provides opportunity for much broad humour, rather than subtle, and proves a popular attraction’ (Birmingham Daily Gazette, 26 November 1918). ‘The signing of the armistice makes “Parker’s Appeal” appear rather out of date, but it is such excellent farce that one will readily overlook the fact that it is the old military tribunal that is the subject of burlesque. Up to a point the “general tendencies” of the time when men, the fathers of families, were called to the colours, are admirably expressed in the true spirit of comedy, but later the performance develops into broad farce. The humour is throughout refreshingly crisp. Mr. Charles Austin is extremely funny in the part of the brewer’s workman who has been “called up,” and he is adequately supported’ (Birmingham Daily Post, 26 November 1918). ‘Parker’s Appeal is excellent burlesque. It deals with the tribunals, and although the armistice has been signed, the subject matter does not seem a little bit stale. It is most excellent farce, and Charles Austin does brilliantly’ (he Stage, 28 November 1918).

Advertised in The Era, 27 November 1918.

Advertised in the Acton Gazette, 29 November 1918.

‘An enthusiastic reception is accorded to Charles Austin, who, assisted by a capable company, is presenting his distinctly funny episode, Parker’s Appeal. Bristling with good, lively humour, this piece is to be reckoned among the most successful of the Parker episodes. Of the clever performance of Mr. Austin it is sufficient to say that the popular comedian is s seen at his best, and that laughter is much in evidence’ (The Stage, 13 February 1919). ‘A splendid variety programme at the Empire this week is headed by that popular comedian of Parker, P.C., fame, Charles Austin, who once again introduces us to his screamingly funny sketch in three scenes, “Parker’s Appeal,” with, of course, the famous Charles as the and only Parker, assisted by a strong company. This, we should say, is the of sketches that Austin has yet given us, for it is nothing but a continuous roar of laughter from start to finish, commencing with him receiving his calling-up notice, following on with his “cheerful” experiences on the way to the tribunal to lodge his appeal, and his eventual appearance before that body, whom he finally treats to an impassionate (?) and touching (?) speech, in which he asks one little favour - “Don’t call me up till peace is signed.” In the whole of these uproarious episodes, Austin is seen at his best, taking advantage of every opportunity to turn it to humour, which at times is indeed boisterous, and his efforts were provocative of the loudest prolonged laughter, as hearty as we have heard' (Holloway Press, 14 February 1919).

‘There will be a carnival of comedy at the New Cross Empire next week, when the major portion of the programme will be taken up by leading variety laugh-makers. At the head of affairs will be Charlie Austin, who presents his latest sketch, “Parker’s Appeal,” brought up-to-date and continuing the screaming series of Parker’s adventures which were exploited in “Parker, P.C.” and “Parker s Wedding”’ (Kentish Independent, 14 February 1919). ‘In spite of the absence through illness of Charles Austin with his company in “Parker’s Appeal,” there is a very good bill …’ (West Kent Argus and Borough of Lewisham News, 21 February 1919).

Listed in Calls For Next Week in The Stage, 20 February 1919.

‘It evidently takes more than an influenza epidemic to keep Islington from its amusements, for Collins’s was packed to the doors long before the curtain went up for the first house on Monday. We agree with Islington - it was certainly worth risking, if only to see our friend Parker conducting his appeal at the tribunal. Such good fun is never out of date, even though tribunals happily are, and Charles Austin, who gets every ounce of fun out of every incident, could keep “Parker’s Appeal” going for years. We suggest, however, he should try his hand at “Parker’s Demobilisation.” It seems fruitful’. The Era, 5 March 1919.

‘Charles Austin finds plenty of scope for his quaint humour in a sketch “Parker’s Appeal”’. Manchester Evening News, 11 March 1919.

‘“Parker’s Appeal” is real comedy, and now that recruiting is over we can unreservedly enjoy it. Mr. Charles Austin, who is assisted by a capable company, is simply irresistible, and last night the house again and again rocked with laughter at his unexpected drolleries, verbal and facial’ (Liverpool Daily Post, 18 March 1919). ‘Chas. Austin looms large here in a sketch of his own, “Parker’s Appeal,” and a very strong and successful appeal it proves to make’ (The Stage, 20 March 1919).

‘Charles Austin and company return with a hilarious performance of “Parker’s Appeal,” a sketch which, although dealing with a rather out-of-date subject, is always welcome on account of Mr. Austin’s portrayal of the inimitable Parker’. The Stage, 3 April 1919.

‘Charles Austin, the popular comedian of “Parker, P.C.” fame, is heading the bill at the Hippodrome. His company is to produce that diverting three-act comedy sketch, “Parker’s Appeal”’. Newcastle Daily Journal, 5 April 1919.

‘Although the day of tribunals and “calling up” is over, Charles Austin manages to keep audiences in roars of laughter with his sketch “Parker’s Appeal.” This artiste, whose popularity was again evidenced last night when he appeared at the Birkenhead Hippodrome, has a keen sense humour, and his study of the bibulous brewery worker is extremely funny. He is ably supported by a strong company’ (Liverpool Daily Post, 15 April 1919). ‘Few, if any, comedians are more popular at Birkenhead than the inimitable Charles Austin, who pays a welcome return visit to this Grange-road Theatre, during the current week. In his production “Parker’s Appeal,” which is presented in three scenes, the original “Parker” has ample scope to display his ability as a mirth-provoker. In view of the fact that the “plot” is based on the Tribunals, the production may appear somewhat out of date, but at the same time it can be safely said that the gags and witticisms are very up-to-date, as was evinced on Monday evening, when two crowded audiences were kept in a high state of merriment’ (Birkenhead News, 16 April 1919).

‘The large and delighted audiences [who?] sampled the excellent and varied bill at the Hippodrome at both houses last [evening?] gave full promise of a successful week. At the head of the programme is the entertaining [and?] laughable “Parker’s Appeal,” presented by Charles Austin and his company’ (Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 22 April 1919). ‘Chas. Austin, assisted by an excellent company of artists, in an irresistibly funny sketch “Parker’s Appeal,” heads a sumptuous holiday programme. As “Parker,” Austin creates much laughter in his efforts to deceive the military tribunal’. Sheffield Independent, 22 April 1919. Also in the Penistone, Stocksbridge and Hoyland Express, 26 April 1919.

Advertised in The Era, 23 April 1919.

‘Charles Austin’s distinctly amusing episode, “Parker’s Appeal,” is causing merriment among excellent audiences at the Balham Hippodrome this week. Bristling with good, lively humour, this piece, despite its rather out-of-date subject, certainly holds its own as one of the best of the numerous sketches that have the lighter side of life in war time for their basis. Its hold upon popular favour is as firm as ever’. The Stage, 1 May 1919.

Advertised in The Era, 30 April 1919.

‘The programme at Chiswick Empire this week contains a number of very entertaining items, and is giving every satisfaction. At the top of the bill is the versatile comedian, Charles Austin, who, together with his company, a small but very good one, appears in an amusing comedy sketch, entitled “Parker’s Appeal.” Nobody could possibly be funnier than is Mr. Austin in this diverting episode, which is thoroughly enjoyed by all’. Richmond Herald, 10 May 1919.

‘No further praise is necessary for Charles Austin’s amusing sketch, “Parker’s Appeal.” The popular comedian is seen at his best, and loud laughter prevails for a piece which abounds in opportunities for his distinctly funny demeanour’. The Stage, 15 May 1919

Listed in Cals for Monday 19 May in The Era, 14 May 1919.

Noted in The Era, 28 May 1919.

Listed in Calls for Monday 2 June in The Era, 28 May 1919. Similarly The Stage, 29 May 1919.

‘There was a typical programme at the Empire last night for a holiday crowd, when everyone feels too tired to do anything but laugh. It was headed by Charles Austin, whose series of Parker frivolities are very well known on the variety stage. This time it was “Parker’s Appeal,” which it always is as a matter of fact, and it was an up-to-date sketch, with any number of amusing trifles, witticisms and burlesques, and a stock of lively situations for the comedian. Needless to say, it went well’. Newcastle Daily Chronicle, 10 June 1919.

‘If the war happily no longer lends point to “Parker’s Appeal,” Charles Austin is sufficiently funny to render its return to the Empire thoroughly enjoyable. Austin has done nothing more laughable than his burlesque of a tribunal, and his company backs him up capitally’. Nottingham Evening Post, 17 June 1919.

‘Charles Austin and company presented the farcical comedy sketch, “Parker’s Appeal,” recalling the experiences of many before the military tribunals’ (The Era, 25 June 1919). ‘Charles Austin returns here this week with “Parker’s Appeal,” which, although it deals with the happily dead and gone days of the military Tribunals, is as welcome as ever for the excellent opportunities it offers its chief comedian. Mr. Austin has seldom been funnier, and it is good to hear the roars of laughter he causes’ (The Stage, 26 June 1919).

Noted in The Stage, 10 July 1919, as ‘a farcical trifle’.

Advertised in the Western Morning News, 16 July 1919.

Noted in the Stage, 24 July 1919.

Listed in Calls for Monday 28 July in The Era, 23 July 1919. Similarly The Stage, 24 July 1919.

Advertised in The Era, 13 August 1919.

‘At the Bristol Hippodrome this week a delightful little farcical sketch is provided in “Parker’s Appeal.” The principal part is taken by Charles Austin, of “Parker, P.C.” fame, who keeps the audience in a state of laughter from beginning to end, and he is ably supported by the other members of the cast. The sketch is founded on a Military Tribunal incident, “Parker” receiving his papers to report at the tribunal at seven o’clock in the evening. The situations in his home leading up to this critical moment, the scenes outside the Town Hall and within, appeal to all members of the audience, and the cheery humour of the chief character combined with his desire to remain at home are highly entertaining’. Western Daily Press, 16 December 1919.

Advertised in the Birmingham Daily Gazette, 22 December 1919, as ‘an episode of 1915’. Also: ‘Although somewhat out date Charles Austin’s sketch, “Parker’s Appeal,” is still a good tonic for the blues’ (Birmingham Daily Gazette, 23 December 1919). ‘Charles Austin and company appear with great success in “Parker’s Appeal.” The humour is first-rate. and here and there the sketch has been improved with crisp and up-to-date dialogue and incident. Charles Austin is always in the picture, and he is well supported’ (The Stage, 25 December 1919). ‘Charles Austen’s [sic] sketch “Parker’s Appeal” at the Empire kept the audience in merry mood’ (Birmingham Daily Gazette, 27 December 1919).

‘The star attraction at Chiswick Empire next week will be “Parker’s Appeal”’. Richmond Herald, 24 December 1919.

‘The important feature in next week’s bill at the Shepherd’s Bush Empire will be “Parker’s Appeal.” This is Mr. Chas. Austin’s latest success, burlesquing a familiar subject, and forming another number in the famous “Parker Series” of sketches’ (Richmond Herald, 24 December 1919). ‘The important feature in this week’s bill at the Shepherds Bush Empire is “Parker’s Appeal.” This is Mr. Chas. Austin’s latest success, burlesquing a familiar subject, and forming another number in the famous “Parker Series” of sketches’ (Ealing Gazette and West Middlesex Observer, 3 January 1920).

‘Charles Austin and company are presenting “Parker’s Appeal,” the humour of which has lost much of its savour (so far away do we seem from 1915), but it gives plenty of opportunities for Mr. Austin to convey his irresistible comic propensities to the audience. He is decidedly popular, and is well backed up by a company who act as capital feeders to the leading comedian’ (The Stage, 8 January 1920). ‘An entertaining variety programme is the fare being put forward at the Empire this week by the manager, Mr. Gordon Craig, the chief attraction being another visit of the popular comedian, Charles Austin, who, with his company, is once again presenting that by now well-worn although very laughable playlet, “Parker’s Apeal,” [sic] in which the resourceful Charles indulges in the most boisterous of fun, to the evident enjoyment of the huge audience’ (Holloway Press, 9 January 1920).

‘The principal attraction on Mr. Leslie Hogben’s programme is provided by Charles Austin, who is presenting his farcical sketch, “Parker’s Appeal.” Though this war time piece has naturally lost much of its topical flavour, there are still plenty of laughs in it, and Mr. Austin has numerous opportunities to display his ludicrous humours, whilst sundry little snatches of song and a mock patriotic speech at the end reveal passing glimpses of his powers as vocalist and actor. His company support him loyally, and Islington audiences love him’. The Stage, 15 January 1920.

‘The outstanding feature of the entertainment at the Empire is fun. Almost every turn is mirth-provoking, and crowded audiences last night thoroughly enjoyed themselves. In “Parker’s Appeal,” Charles Austin has composed a highly amusing Military Tribunal sketch, which is performed in rollicking style’ (Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 20 January 1920). ‘Th« chief attraction at the Empire this week is “Parker’s Appeal,” an episode of 1915, carried out by Charles Austin and Company, and from start to finish this miniature play is full of mirth and merriment’ (Sheffield Evening Telegraph, 20 January 1920).

‘Here Charles Austin is presenting “The Adventures of Parker, P.C.,” written by himself in association with Charles Ridgewell, and produced by Charles Henry. The piece is divided into three episodes dealing with “Parker’s Wedding,” “Parker’s Appeal,” and “Parker P.C.;” and there are nine scenes in all. The piece includes a good deal of familiar material of the Parker school, but that is counted as an asset by audiences who welcome the opportunity to renew acquaintance with Parker P.C. and to join him in his adventures, first into matrimony, then as a man in war-time seeking exemption from military service at the hands of a local tribunal, and, lastly, as a new-style policeman who runs his own station at competitive prices and his own law courts on similar lines, acting as his own judge and surmounting his desk with a cash register and the necessary public-house furniture, so that customers for strong drink may be supplied during court hours. Of course, the story (or series of stories) is all very absurd, but that does not matter when one has so irresistibly a comedian as Mr. Austin to play the part of Parker. Mr. Austin’s humour is of the Cockney kind that audiences understand and appreciate to the full. He works very hard, and is on the stage most of the time, and there is laughter in plenty whenever he is about. A capital little company support their principal in whole-hearted fashion, and Ruby Norton, Alec Dane, Brian Watson, Rowland Douglas, Nancy Blackwood, and Harold Finden are among those whose work calls for particular mention. Opportunities remain for some additions to the book, for the piece played rather short on Monday, and for a better finish, but Mr. Austin and his company can be relied upon to remedy any deficiency in this direction. Finsbury Park audiences give the piece a cordial reception this week, and the success of Mr. Austin’s new experiment seems assured’. The Stage, 18 July 1929.

Listed in Calls For Next Week in The Stage, 18 July 1929. Advertised as The Adventures of Parker in The Era, 18 and 25 July 1929.

‘Charles Austin, in a character which he has made singularly his own, is providing capital entertainment here this week in his new farce “The Adventures of Parker, P.C.” In three very funny acts, he appears as the principal in an unfortunate matrimonial adventure, as an appellant before the military tribunal, and as a unique administrator of justice on competitive lines! The opportunities which the farce provide are made the most of by the popular comedian. He has the support of an able company, among whom are Alec Dane, Harold Finden, Nancy Blackwood, and Ruby Norton’. The Stage, 1 August 1929.

‘On Monday next, at the Empire, the inimitable Charles Austin will be seen at the head of an exceptionally strong company in his latest production “The Adventures of Parker, P.C.” The character of “Parker P.C.” which brought Mr. Austin fame in a night, was the result of a tram ride. Passing a police station he noticed “To Let” in the window - a new station was in course of erection a few doors away - and the fantastic idea crossed his mind, “Now suppose one of the policemen got the ‘sack’ and took over the old station in opposition.” He was so taken with the idea that he went home and wrote a sketch. Thus was “Parker P.C.” created - the forerunner of “Parker’s Progress,” “Parker on the Panel,” “Parker’s Wedding,” etc. There is no doubt that never before has this great favourite been so excruciatingly, irresistibly funny as in “The Adventures of Parker P.C.” “Parker’s Adventures” will be interpreted by a West End company, which includes - in addition to Charles Austin - Ruby Norton (Mrs. Charles Austin), Alec Dane, Nancy Blackwood, Harold Finden, Dudley Howarth, Brian Watson, etc., etc’. Hampshire Advertiser, 3 August 1929.

‘If you want a couple of hours real hearty laughter go to the Hippodrome this week. Charles Austin, London’s famous comedian, occupies the stage practically the whole of this time at each house and there is not a dull second. Last night indeed he kept the audience in a continuous titter and whatever the attraction there can be no question that Charles Austin stands in a class exclusively his own. There are three short acts in which Austin appears first as a bridegroom, secondly at the recruiting office, and lastly, in his well-known role of P.C. Parker. His humour is clean and decidedly original and anyone in search of two hours rollicking merriment should visit the Hippodrome. He is supported by a good company, the ladies in particular being excellent’. Gloucester Citizen, 13 August 1929.

‘Charles Austin provoked roars of merriment last night in “The Adventures of Parker, P.C.,” which he wrote jointly with Charles Ridgwell. The audience had scarcely finished laughing over one point before Austin, with his inimitable mannerisms, set them off again. The comedy was in three episodes, which dealt with a matrimonial agency, a war-time tribunal, and Parker’s career as a policeman. His face is his fortune as far as comedy is concerned, but Charles Austin showed unexpected signs of serious dramatic acting. However, all these spasms, as they proved to be, ended suddenly in a screamingly funny and entirely unexpected way which entranced and convulsed the audience ... There was a splendid supporting cast, of which it would he invidious to mention one name more than another’. Birmingham Daily Gazette, 20 August 1929.

The Stage, 22 and 29 August 1929, listed The Adventures of Parker, P.C. as On Tour from 26 August at the Emp., Islington.

The Stage, 29 August 1929, listed The Adventures of Parker, P.C. as On Tour from 2 September at the Pal., South London. Similarly The Era, 4 September 1929.

‘The Palace management have secured for the attraction next week the famous comedian, Chas. Austin. Those who know just how funny Chas. Austin can be will hardly believe it is possible for him to be funnier. But whether doing the impossible or no, there is no doubt that never has this great favourite been so excruciatingly funny as in his new burlesque, “The Adventures of Parker P.c.” He is on the stage for practically the whole time the show runs, and his bluff, good humour, and homely comedy are cleverly exploited in the manner in which only Chas. Austin can do it. To see “Parker” getting married, joining the Force and finally backing horses (that run no where) in his police court is a perfect riot of fun. He is supported by an excellent caste of well-known players, and the show has been produced by Mr. Chas. Henry. Book your seats now for this great comedy attraction’. West London Observer, 6 September 1929.

The Era, 18 September 1929, listed The Adventures of Parker, P.C. as On The Road from 16 September at the Empire, Camberwell.

Advertised in the Kensington Post, 20 September 1929.

‘The famous comedian Charles Austin has been engaged to open at the Palace on Monday in “Parker P.C.” Theatregoers have followed with delight the hilarious and adventurous career of “Parker,” one of the greatest comedy creations variety has brought to the stage. For many years “Parker” in different guises and situations has been an inexhaustible source of merriment, but in the latest episode “The Adventures of Parker P.C.,” he is more irresistibly and consistently funny than ever. Charles Austin himself is said by the critics to be better than ever he has been, his new role giving him every opportunity for his own inimitable natural style of comedy. He is supported by a company of artistes’. West Ham and South Essex Mail, 27 September 1929.

Advertised in The Stage, 3 October 1929, and the South Western Star, 4 October 1929.

‘Mr. Charles Austin, the famous comedian, received an ovation at the Croydon Empire on Monday evening, when he presented his well-known comedy, “Parker, P.C.” Mr. Austin has an inimitable style of humour which always makes an instant appeal to his audience. As Parker, P.C., with his own police station and police court, he has opportunities seldom equalled for bringing into play his talents in the fun-making line. He is ably assisted by his company, which includes such well-known artistes as Alec Dane, Nance Blackwood and Ruby Norton. The whole show has obviously been designed to provide the maximum amount of entertainment, and there is not a dull moment in either of the three cleverly devised acts. The management already report that advance bookings are very heavy. Patrons desiring seats should therefore book them as early as possible’. Croydon Times, 16 October 1929.

‘Charles Austin, as full of breeziness as ever, and as resourceful in raising laughs as when he first created that wonderful character of variety “Parker” is delighting Hippodrome audiences this week with “The Adventures of Parker P.C.” The fact that he has introduced into this latest of a long list of successful productions an element of “sob stuff” of the heavy drama type, serves to accentuate his own vigorous merriment. But those who do not care for the dismal pathetic, slow-motion sort of ditties telling of life’s tragedies, that for some unaccountable reason find a place in most shows of to-day are not asked to tolerate many of them in “Parker P.C.” and there is ample diversity in the brightness of Alec Dane, Nancy Blackwood, Ruby Norton, and other members of a talented company to counteract any ill-effects may produce’. Eastern Counties’ Times, 25 October 1929.

Listed in Next Week’s Calls in The Era, 23 October 1929. Similarly The Stage, 24 October 1929.

Advertised in the Norwood News, 1 November 1929.

Listed in Calls For Next Week in The Stage, 7 November 1929.

‘Written by Mr. Charles Austin and Mr. Charles Ridgewell and produced by Mr. Charles Henry, this show is full of good things. When you get a series of those excellent episodes so beloved of music-hall audiences formed together in one composite production, the result is a foregone conclusion. Yes, the ingredients are there all right, and Charlie Austin and the capable company assisting him see that they are put over in good style. There are three episodes. The first, “Parker’s Wedding,” is in three scenes, “A Matrimonial Agency,” “ Outside the Church” and “The Wedding Breakfast.” The second, “Parker’s Appeal,” also has three scenes, “Parker’s Home,” “Outside the Town Hall” and “The Tribunal.” “Parker, P.C.,” has a trio of scenes, “Holdham-street Police Station,” “Outside Parker’s Police Station” and “Parker’s Lawcourts.” The fun in all these is fast and furious. Mr. Austin himself is on the stage most of the time, and his brilliant comedy style, unique and inimitable as it is, kept the audience on Monday in roars of laughter. His impromptu gags as well as all his other funny business represents humour at its best. It is a wonderful performance of Mr. Austin’s, well conceived and sustained'. The Era, 20 November 1929.

‘“Parker, P.C.” is an old friend – a character one may say, whose genial humour will always prevail whatever the nature of the adventure with which he meets. And Parker’s career is far from being uneventful. Next week at the Hackney Empire we are to meet him in some new adventures. The exact form of these is really of little importance, for as represented by Charles Austin we have in “Parker” a “character” who is bound to say something droll, whatever may be the situation on which he finds himself. It is, of course, largely a one-man show, and the fact that Charles Austin succeeds in keeping his audiences thoroughly amused scene after scene is a tribute to his innate abilities as a comedian ... It may be of interest to know that the original famous sketch “Parker, P.C.” was written in Hackney. Mr. Austin was living in Victoria Park-road at the time, and in passing the old police station one day he noticed a board advertising the property for sale. This immediately appealed to his sense of humour, he returned home at once and within a few hours had finished the famous sketch which has now become a classic’. East London Observer, 23 November 1929.

‘There is, perhaps, no more typical cockney comedian than Charles Austin, and his visit to Poplar in “The Adventures of Parker, P.C.” is naturally proving a strong attraction. It was a bold idea of Mr. Austin’s to merge several of his sketches into one long piece, but his foresight is certainly being rewarded, and the sketches seem to fall happily into place in their present form. Mr. Austin’s powers as a mirth-maker are great, and it is to be expected that he should over shadow everyone else in the cast, but he is well served by his loyal company, who play up to him in the right spirit ... Harold Finden, Mr. Austen’s business manager, reveals experience in every line as the Mayor in the Tribunal scene'. The Stage, 5 December 1929.