Kansas City daily journal. [volume] (Kansas City, Mo.) 1892-1897, 1896-09-22
Music and the Drama.

There was something singularly appro-
nriate in the character of the entertain
nient at the Coates last night. The occa-
SIGN was the opening of the season at this
old theater. Kansas Cityans are deprived
OF many of the interesting diversions that
are afforded people of some other cities.
therefore the beginning of the theatrical
year breaks up the monotony of the rather
dull summer months. In America there is
perhaps a less clearly defined Bohemian
ism than in Europe. especially the Conti-
mental portion. and such as is found in this
country is fostered more by the theatrical
profession than by any other calling.
Therefore, one experiences both relaxa-
ton and an exhilaration of mind in the
first glamor of the revived footlights,
through which he renews acquaintance
with old friends. And when one is privi-
legged to meet such prime favorites and
Charles Frohmans stock company in such
strikingly characteristic comedy as 'Bo-
kenia,' the pleasure of the return is en-
Those who recall the studio scenes of
'"Trilby' may catch an advance apprecia-
ton of the pervading spirit of this comedy.
| modified in Mr.. Fitch's adaptation from
| the French of Murger and Barriere. Ordi-
| narily it would be considered rather trivial
for the metal of Mr.. Frohman's organiza-
agreeable as the first bill of the season-a
sort of merrymaking prelude to the new
| ordinary company to make much of the
comedy, but in the hands of such compe-
tent players. who carefully guard them
dulgences. it rises to the dignity of a Rret..
Characters clearly defined; 1t Is not one Of
phase of life is gilded and seasoned so as to
make it tempting to the passer-by for
with all its loyalties of friendship. its free
| dem from conventionality. and its impet-
| uous attachments. there is. little compensa-
| tion for the meager nourishments resulting
| from the reckless improvidence of dream
4 ing poets. musicians and philosophers.
Rudolph. the central figure of this Bo-
hemian set. is exceedingly well shown by
Mr.: Faversham, who has been advanced
| mans organization. There is no attempt
| to exalt the character above the life toward
which the dramatist has inclined 1t. and it
Faversham's intensity should have limited
himself so gracefully. Miss Allen has very
Sa
character is of the sympathetic kind. in
which Miss Aliens friends like to see her
IN fa%o aU Tbers m ver M
| tie champagne in this Bohemia. but of this.
little Musette is the pop and the sparkle.
and effervescent style are an exact fit for
| this licensed character. secures large
share of whatever credit is due. An eX-
ceedingly clever performance of trying
| part is given by Mr.. Edeson, who is cast
| for Marcel. the painter. Excellent charac-
| ter sketches are given by Mr. Dodson as
| the self-sacrificing musician, Mr.. Gotschalk
as the quaint philosopher. MIR. Crcmpton
as Batiste, Mr.. Finney as the fantastic
| dude and Miss Robson as the lodginghouse
| keeper, while Mr.. Backus is direct and con-
vincing in his portrayal of Durandin. who
Genes from the outside world and is un-
welcome in Bohemia.
1t is no Gisparagement to the excellent
players of last nights cast to say that the
mellow notes and comforting repose of
i Henry Miller were missed.
Bohemia will be repeated tonight and
tomorrow night. Thursday night and Sat-
| urday matinee, Cartons Liberty Hail.
| will be giN>,, and Friday and Saturday
nights Pineii's 1.-The Benefit Of the Doubt