Grand Theatre, Falkirk

‘The test of a play is its power to keep the audience interested all through its presentation, and that quality is contained in the play “Neither Wife - Nor Maid,” which is the main constituent of the programme submitted at the Falkirk Grand Theatre this week. The story is interesting, and it deals with strong human emotions, which chiefly centre in the character of Meg Huxter, the “woman who pays.” The exacting part is admirably interpreted by Miss Ada Abbott, who shows much power, made all the more telling by restraint. The emotions and character of the sorely-tried woman are brought out with sympathy and skill. The other leading part, that of the rough-diamond “Curly Saunders’” is in the thoroughly capable hands of Mr John Johnson. The character is a likeable one in itself, and Mr Johnson brings this out to the best possible advantage. He introduces a novel interlude, in which he is ably assisted by the subject of his song, “He’s My Pal” - a clever dog. Altogether the play, the title of which indicates the main foundation of the plot, possesses in large measure the elements of success; it has a strong appeal, it has a topical application, and is capably presented. Variety is given to the entertainment in acceptable form by the cinema. “The Home Breakers,” a Keystone production, commands laughter throughout its two parts, and, in the particular Keystone vein, the humour is very enjoyable. Topical events are shown in the Gaumont Graphic, which, as usual, is an attractive feature'. Falkirk Herald, Saturday 9 September 1916.

The Era, 24 and 31 January 1917, listed The Man Who Stayed at Home (Blue) as On The Road from 29 January at the Grand, Falkirk. Also The Stage, 25 January 1917. ‘That the famous spy play, “The Man Who Stayed At Home,” should be received at the Grand with every mark of enthusiasm and appreciation is only to be expected. It is unique in its topical interest, based as it is upon stern realities, and having as its theme a subject which has been, and still is, if perhaps now in lesser degree, a serious one for this country. That special interest and the entertaining way in which the thrilling incidents and grim purposes of the play are focussed against a light and subtle humour combine to make “The Man Who Stayed At Home” a production which cannot fail to merit the highest public favour ... Superficially, humour is the outstanding feature, and laughter goes with a ripple from start to finish. Attractive in itself, this serves to bring the serious element into sharper contrast, and intensifies the interest. The story puts into an amusing setting the spy problem with which this country has had to grapple since the outbreak of the war. The play has a purpose in showing that the (apparently) innocent Teuton who runs a boarding-house, and who has become naturalised, may prove a very deadly foe ' (Falkirk Herald, 3 February 1917).

Performers: Dot Stephens Company Other acts on bill: Shall They Marry

‘Two dramas, distinct in theme, but each having one factor in common - that of the unusual - are presented at the Grand this week by Mr G. Carlton Wallace ... On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday The Apple of Eden is staged, and during the second three days The Enemy in Our Midst is the attraction … The theme of The Enemy in Our Midst is one which is always interesting, and at the present time is particularly so. The plot deals with the doings of German spies scheming a big Zeppelin raid, and provides great scope for exciting situations. A feature of the production is a clever piece of stagecraft depicting the destruction of a Zeppelin by a British aeroplane' (Falkirk Herald, 26 and 29 September 1917).

'The power to appeal to the emotions, to hold the interest and to entertain is possessed in full measure' (Falkirk Herald, 5 January 1918)

Elwes played the part of Ada Stack, the outcast, and Mr L.E. Eykyn played the part of the squire. "There was a large audience at the first performance of the week, and the company then showed considerable talent within the scope of a play like 'The Cottage Girl', in which emotions and characteristics are painted with a broad brush." (Falkirk Herald, 27 February 1918)

‘The new play, “A Son of the Sea,” by Clifford Rean, is staged at the Grand this week by Mr Will. H. Glaze’s company. Within the limits of ordinary drama, “A Son of the Sea” is attractive, the story being interesting, the manner of its telling being effective, and the appeal to the emotions having at times more grip and reality than is ordinarily attained by such plays. Some of the scenes are indeed strong in. interest and appeal, notably that in which “Poppy Wentworth” (the heroine) is rescued from a wreck by “Paul Tregarron” (the “son of the sea”). Very touching is the hymn of supplication, “For those in peril on the sea,” by the anxious watchers on shore. Also very effective is the situation when, in a lonely lighthouse, Paul stands face to face with “Richard Tregarron,” his cousin, the man who has wronged him deeply'. Falkirk Herald, 27 March 1918.

The Falkirk Herald, 30 November 1918, advertised ‘Harry Leaton and Scot Watson Present The Great New Super Spy Play, An Episode of “The Royal Flying Corps,” Carry On, Or “The Secret Aeroplane” By G. Gordon Jefferson. The Greatest War Play yet written. Exposing the real danger of The Hidden Hand in our Midst. See the Great Fight in the Air (Actually Realised, Not a Film). Note – The action of the Play takes place on the East Coast of Scotland’. Also: ‘A fascinating play, in four acts, dealing with the German spy system which poisoned this country before the war, will be placed on the hoards next week. The story, which deals with the daring intrigues of two German spies, has been powerfully and skilfully written by Mr G. Gordon Jefferson, who until lately was manager of the Coliseum Theatre, Glasgow. “Carry On,” such is the title of the play, deals largely with an attempt by the enemy agents to acquire the secret new type of British aeroplane, and there are wonderfully realistic effects introduced, including an aerial fight. The whole play abounds in thrilling, dramatic situations, first in the development of the enemy scheme up to a point, and then the baulking of their designs. A talented and capable company will form the cast, and the patrons of the Grand, may look forward to a performance of intense interest’ (Falkirk Herald, 30 November 1918).

Performed for the week.

Presented for the week

Presented by Robert Brasher. "A capital production in every respect. It is full of breezy vigour and fun, and is attracting wonderfully good houses. ...well-written and intelligently conceived plot, with plenty of fun...especially as it is produced so admirably by such a thoroughly capable company." (Falkirk Herald, 18 February 1920)

Performed for one matinee whilst the company were appearing at the Theatre Royal, Glasgow.