Hippodrome, Accrington

‘There is a strong drama at the Hippodrome, Accrington this week. It is “The Unmarried Mother” presented by Mr. Oswald Gray [sic], it deals with a present day social problem. It is the eternal triangle of a man, a woman and another man, but in this play it is all the more impressive as the scenes are woven round a topical social problem. The story of how Eileen, the unmarried mother, was spurned by John Chalmers, the man of the unbending will, because her soldier lover had gone to the war before they were made man and wife, is enacted in a gripping manner ... The play was well presented last night, and it made a popular appeal to two crowded houses’ (Accrington Observer and Times, 26 October 1915). Noted in The Stage, 28 October 1915.

‘Evidence of the popularity of the revue entertainment was again afforded at the Hippodrome last night, when Magini and Co. presented their latest success under the title of “Stop Press.” There is nothing very ambitious about the production from a spectacular point of view, but the humorous element is decidedly strong, and the reception accorded to the revue was most hearty. With such well-known and popular artistes as Kitty Major and Tom Major in the company there could be no doubt as to the success of the production, and anticipations were fully realised/. The laughter was continuous when this couple were on the stage, and the revue is certainly one of the most entertaining that has appeared locally for some time. Supporting them are other efficient artistes, including Margot Myne, George Brooks, Ivor Price, Sisters Wyse, Betty Kitts, and Frank Martyn, and the “Verdun” troupe of dancers contribute some graceful work. The revue is shown in five scenes, and the “stage rehearsal” is somewhat of a novelty that has the additional merit of being excellently performed. Another amusing feature is the representation of “a village tribunal,” which evoked roars of merriment'. Accrington Observer and Times, 17 October 1916.

Advertised in the Accrington Observer and Times, 25 May 1918: ‘J. J. Mannix and Ernest Montefiore present “A German Shell"' as part of a variety bill.