Theatre, Worthing

‘During the present week there is a temporary return to that irresponsible form of theatrical attraction known as the revue. Its title is Real Sports, and it is presented by Mr. Arthur Rosebery, its author. To pit and gallery in particular it proved a veritable feast of fun at the introductory performance on Monday evening, for its humour is distinguished by breadth rather than subtlety, and the piece fulfils the Managerial promise of cheerfulness. Divided into two parts, with seven scenes in all, it deals first of all with An Assembly of Show People, and then the sporting element is introduced through the medium of a scene on the Downs at Epsom on Derby Day. In the later stage of the spectacle the Lady Chauffeur’s racehorse, Jingle, appeared upon the stage, mounted by Miss Neville herself, in correct jockey’s attire. The dressing and mounting are bright and attractive, and the principal parts in the cast are assigned to Mr. Dave O’Toole (who plays the part of the masterful wife of the proprietor of the Palace of Harmony), Mr. Will Priestly (as the khaki-clad owner of the establishment, Sergeant-Major Bob Breeze), Miss Hetty Gale, Mr. Clifton Dane (a pleasing tenor singer), and Mr. Fred Ellis. There is a very good Chorus, and Mr. Leslie E. Scott occupies the position of Musical Director. Unlimited laughter was extorted by Monday’s performance, and the several items that were more particularly applauded were the patriotic quartet by “the Boys of the Old Brigade,” the burlesque by Miss Gale and Mr. Priestly, and the song about the wind by Mr. O’Toole’. Worthing Gazette, 23 October 1918.