The Sun.
London, England, 1855-07-31 00:00:00

STRAND THEATRE.

Novelty and variety would seem to be the leading
characteristics in the management of the "little theati*
in the Strand," and the same tactics which proved so
successful under the late direction of Miss Rebecca Isaacs
—namely, of presenting to the public, from time to
time a continuous freshness in the points d'attraction,
have been followed up with equal earnestness, and no
doubt advantage, by her spirited successor Mr. T. Payne.
As illustrations of what we mean we would instance the
manner in which the furore so recently occasioned by
the revival of the ancient custom of " The Dunmow
Flitch of Bacon " has been turned to account by the
production of a comedietta bearing that title, which has
been written expressly for these boards, and which is so
full of frolicsome humour as to occasion shouts of laugh-
ter on each night of its performance. Again we have a
clever burlesque upon the terpshicorean accomplishments
of the famous " Spanish dancers," executed by an ex.
ceedingly clever troupe of pretty ballet girls, the principal
of whom almost outrivals the pas of the celebrated
rerea Nena herself, whilst, last night, in addition to
these features no less than two new pieces
were placed upon the stage. The first et.
these, Broken Toys, from the talented pen of Mr. John
Daly, though we believe played for two or three nights
at the Marylebone Theatre some time ago, is justly en-
titled to be termed a novelty ; and its reproduction not
only reflects deserved credit upon the judicious taste of
Mr. Payne, but enables us also to speak in unqualified
commendation of the exertions of the company to do it
justice. The plot is simple, yet it is touchingly and in
some parts poetically wrought out ; and the drama,
although confined to two acts, is so complete in itself as
to leave nothing to be desired. It is not wanting, either,
in that kind of variety which consists in the introduction
of characters of a lighter and provocative cast ; so that
the action, as it progresses, gives rise alternately to the
softest and most genuine emotions of the heart and to
irresistible laughter. Indeed, we should imagine few
pieces could be better adapted to display the talents of
the different members of the Strand corps, which, we
may observe, has lately been considerably strengthened
by several additions. Not the least attractive of these
is Miss Cleveland, a young lady who possesses all the
requirements of a graceful and finished actress combined
with a most pleasing simplicity and naturalness of man-
ner. Her impersonation of the heroine, last evening,
was one of the most charming morceaux we have ever
seen. Mr. Barrett, as old Abel Winter, drew down
well-merited applause ; and similar marks of approba-
tion were accorded to Mr. Bender (now stage manager)
and Mr. Charles Vincent—two other new appearances
on these boards—in their respective parts as Mr. Ben-
jamin Proper and Jasper Homestead. Mr. Kinlocb,
always a most vivacious, yet careful actor, was well
suited in the character of a thoughtless, yet well dis-
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At the conclusion of the drama the whole of the per-
formers were loudly called for, and it was announced
for repetition throughout the week, amidst
rounds of
applause,- which unmistakeably indicated that it was a
decided " hit."

HAYMARKET.—A new Spanish ballet was
produced
ere last night as
here
Ea sLtp tmwri. thsvricompleteghtr
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Paul Pry. He was warmly welcomed.
PRINCESS'S.—Mr. and Mrs. Kean I took their] benefit
last night. The house was crowded.
ST. JAMES'S.—Rachel last night attracted a brilliant
audience here by her performance of Camilla au Les
Horaces. She gives three other performances pfeviiirtis
to her departure for America.