The Portland daily press., 1867-01-15
Bidweli a. Brow.e,. Th..,ro

MIR. EDIToR,-When a theatrical CORDS come
among us and establish themselves here and
carefully adopta high standard, playing TRACE
dies, comedies and farces of unassailable
worthiness, with Excelsior" on their banner,
we think the public should give them all posi-
BILE encouragement, that they may have SUBJ
stantal evidence that their efforts are appre-
ciated.
Such a company is now at Deering Hail.
We write this without solicitation, as an ex-
preston of sincere appreciation of the ende av-
ors of Bidwell and Brownies Dramatic Com
pany to afford desirable place of entertain
ment. During the past month, there has been
brought out here such standard attractions as
Macbeth" "Richelieu," sack Cade," &C.,
with Joseph Proctor the eminent tragedian,
as star, and within the past week such plays
as "Nell Gwynn," Belle of the Season"
"Hunchbaek," "Lucretia Borgia," sGrifith
Gaunt," &C., with Miss Rachel johnson and
Mr.. B. Macauley of New York as stars
Mr.. Proctor is well known as one of the fin
est actors on the American stage. Miss john
son is young lady, Boston girl, of rare tai
emit and ability, few years since pupil of
Wyzeman Marshall; and if she improves as
much in the future as she has since her debut
at the Hub" which we well remember, she
will take front rank among the best of the
profession in this country. Her acting is very
easy and natural, full Of life, buoyancy and
esprit. Her articulation in every part is dis
tinct, clear and pleasing, and the tone of her
voice is finely adapted to the successful rendi-
ton of the characters she assumes. She is
ambitious withal, and hence gives every part
she takes all the energy and care possible. OF
course she has much to learn in the profession
but what we desire to say is, thatfew actresses
possess her rare qualities, and with proper use
and with discrimination in the choice OF her
plays, Choosing the wheat and letting the chat
go by,) she will ere long be found among the
leading stars of the country
The plays which have been presented the
past week, and which are in preparation, are
among the best, and we are glad to know the
theatre has been filled with large and appre-
ciative audiences.
The last sensation, Griffith Gaunt," drama
tized from Charles Reade's novel by Augustus
DAILY OF New York, was presented last week
and proved great card. The play is better
than the book, the worst features being left out
and many extra attractions inserted, making
| the piece one of the best presented for many a
| day. The introduction of the Lancashire FAN
by Mr.. DAILY is one of the best hits of the day
Miss johnson played Kate Peyton charming.
| ly, and Mr. Macauleys Griffith Gaunt" was
one of the best things Of the season. Sew,
eral members of the stock company were
\ VIZ in, fba;r q, q =
vantage. SIS
The new historic play-Matilda Herons
"Lesbia, or the Spy of Venice" is now being
| given, and we advise all to see it. The promi
nent position that Venice so recently occupied
in the war between Prussia and Italy agains
Austria, and the terrible record of the .Catho
lie inquisition, render this play great attrac
ton. Miss Heron has taken special interes
in Miss johnson, and has entrusted her will
the rendition of the character of "Lesbia,
considering her one of the most promising act
resses on the American stage From Mis-
Heron's classic taste and high idea of the pro
fession, her interest in Miss johnson speak
volumes in her favor "Romeo and Juliet,
Lady Audley's Secret" and Love Chase,
are also announced for this week--the last O
Miss Johnsons stay. Mr.. Macauley, who sup
ports her in leading characters, plays will
great taste and talent Miss Dollie Bidwell il
leading actress, and always does WE'LL Sucl
actors as Bidwell, Browne, Wilson, Clarke &c
are valuable members of the profession. Mis-
d. P. Ingersoll is also an excellent actress
often playing difficult parts with great accept
ance. DRAMA.