The Memphis appeal. [volume] (Memphis, Tenn.) 1886-1890, 1888-10-05
DOWNING IN "sPARTAoUS. "

1t was a cheering sight and every lover OF
Memphis who saw it was stirred to the
hearts core. A packed house, packed from
pit to dome, and that, too, within ten days
after brief scare that threatened to depop-
ulatc the city. Who ever saw such first
night in Memphis under similar circum-
stances? WIS ever dreamt that such first
night was possible at the very time and hour
when half the fashion and beauty of the city
were assembled at house of worship to wit
ness the nuptial ceremonies Of one Of the
most charming and popular young ladies
in Memphis? Who will question now
the amazing vitality of town which
can so quickly recover from condition
pleasure bounding back with accelerated
action into its accustomed channels. ITo
must be an arrant skeptic indeed who, after
this, will deny that the energy snap and in
destructible vitality of Memphis will carry
her quickly beyond the goal set for her even
by the most sanguine of her prophets. Now,
let all the little jay towns that have been
barking at Memphis during the past six
weeks clear the track and watch the
not only gratifying in numbers, but
far above the average in culture, social
rank and critical discrimination. In point
OF beauty and tasteful and stylish attire the
ladies present seemed TO have eclipscd all
previous records The amazing wealth Of
color frightened in gorgeous effect by burn
ished steel. which Toasted the sight while the
curtain was up, found happy counterpart
in the subdued tints OF the ladies' costumes
upon which the eye rested when the curtain
was down with a sense Of grateful relief. IL
was a thoroughly enjoyable occasion, all the
moro so because the dropping of the curtain
upon each successive act opened new and
ever changeful source Of diversion.
The orchestra under George Handwerker's
skillful leadership seems TO have improved
the summer vacation by learning new air
or two. The old familiar chestnuts which
the regular habitues of the theater have
listened to at such regular intervals that
they could predict their arrival 10 the hour
and minute, were not on duty last night.
In their place the audience were treated TO u
half dozen or 50 of bcwilderingly new tunes,
sprightly, sparkling things that set the
| pulses aglow and cause the feet to beat time
unconsciously. The world must be moving
sure enough when Handwcrker's orchc5trA'
catches on 10 n new bar-of music.
The performance was notable for m even
ness Of merit rare In n travelling company.
Mr.. Downing has surrounded himself with u
company Of superior artists, and the newt
able stick" Is absent, but not missed. OF
Mr.. Downing himself, Il is scarcely necessary
10 speak. as lac Is already well and very
fayorably known 90 Memphis thcaicr-
gocs. His impcronaiion Of the Glad
iator seems 10 improve with the
advancing years, aud gains with each
performance In dignity aud power. His
magnificent voice does not botny him into
excuses Of defamation as might be the case
wcrc he less intelligent and conscientious
actor, for few men ever lived 20 abuudantly
! qualified by nature 10 split the ears Of the
groundlings. THIS Mr.. Downing docs not
| do, ard the fine art with which he reserves
his powers until the grand climax In tho
fifth act stamps him an actor who need not
fear 10 aspire 90 first honors In the particular
walk u the profession which lac has chosen.
Mr.. Charles Hermann, rs Phasarius, made
a capital impression. Ills description Of tho
sight Of the crucided Fladiators ON the battle
field, was thrilling In its intensity and
/ brought the house down rs one man IN APP
proving applause.
Mr.. Harry Mccdlth's Crassus was the best
ever seen here. In fact, II would be hand to
improve upon II.
Miss Helen Tracy acted sononA IN faulilcss
style aud proved herself an actress Of -
much merit that the public will doubtless
be eager to hear her In something better
fitted 10 her capacity. There is no scope
for her M Sonona.
Miss Eugcnia Blair made very lovely aud
graceful Julia.