Hippodrome, Devonport

Performed from 10 to 15 April 1916.

Performed by Miss Beaumont Collins.

Performed for the week by cast including Harry Buss.

Adverts now note in particular the appearance of Gus Keeling as comedian.

The Western Evening Herald, 18 June 1918, advertised at the Hippodrome, Devonport, a bill that included Constance Drever and Company in A Wife’s Dilemma.

‘The whole of the bill at the Devonport Hippodrome this week is occupied by Mr. Harry Goodson’s revue “Jolly Times,” which last night maintained two full houses in a constant state of merriment. Mr. H. Goring is responsible for the book of “Jolly Times,” which is a series of war incidents and skits strung together after the manner of revues. It is well produced by Mr. John A. Howitt, and the company is a strong one, the principals and chorus alike being of a high standard. In Jos. Alexandre and Joseph Victor the company has two capable comedians, the former as Corpl. Squibbs being clever at patter and bubbling over with quaint sayings, whilst Mr. Victor is as successful in producing fun in his own particular style. The lady principals are extremely popular, Miss Florence Williams, as a W.A.A.C., possessing a charming and naive manner, whilst her singing of “I’ve been walking out with my W.A.A.C.” and “Down on the farm,” among other numbers, was thoroughly enjoyable. Miss Madge Merle possesses a voice which was heard to particular advantage in “Down Honolulu way” and “I don’t want get well,” and she successfully portrayed the character of a nurse. Mr. Peter McSweeney, who takes the leading male part, has a voice of excellent quality, which was greatly appreciated in “Brave old contemptibles,” “ It’s a long way, no longer,” and an Irish song. Mr. Ellis J. Preston made a good colonel, and Miss Dorothy Vernon capably represented the part of Muriel. The finale, dancing and café in Paris, was an exquisite scene, and beautifully staged, the dresses and effects being most artistic and pretty. Another attractive scene was the outpost, at which Messrs. J. Alexandre and Victor and Miss Merle sang popular ditties’. Western Morning News, 25 March 1919.