Evening star., 1896-10-27
AZ AMUsEMENTs.

Lafayette Square Opera House.-Most of
the theatrical profferings which have
claimed public attention of recent seasons
are, no. normal artistic growths. They
have been of the uncanny. We have had
the orchids Of extravaganza and the toad
stools of melodrama. fascinating 1t it's true
with garish colorings, but suggestive of
moral miasma. The production of Louis
XI by the keene-Hanford organization at
Lafayette Square Opera House last night
gave to the auditor a sensation like that of
ascending from the marshes into the pure
atmosphere of dramatic sincerity. The play
affords both th- leading members of the
company opportunities to do the best that
is in them. Mr.. Keene presented the title
role with a deftness of expression which
surprised even his old admirers. For many
years 1t was customary to refer to him as
an actor with a future. The realization of
this prospect seems plainly at hand. His
vigor of defamation and his command of
the more artificial methods of attaining
theatric effects have been tempered by the
culture that comes with years to the earn
est and capable student. The tricks of the
stage, in which Mr. keene has drilled himself
until they are second nature, are now only
accessories to his work, literally employed,
but in their proper subordination. Louis
XI is a character which calls for the most
subtle skill on the part of the performer
The actor who plays 1t as well as Mr..
Keene did last night must without reserve
be accorded place among the leaders of
bis profession.
Yet a study in horror, however complete
and admirable, does not entirely satisfy the
playgoer. There must be valiant man
and a lover-an assurance that life in it's
rational aspect is not hideous. This element
is supplied by the role Of Nemours, which
Mr.. Hanford played with the ability that
has earned him SO much commendation in
the past. With good stage presence, fine
perceptions as a reader, and the training
and power necessary for effective elocution
Mr.. Hanford in his impersonation justified
both the idealizing affection of the heroine
and the cringing terror Of the malevolent
Louis.
Miss Grace Hopkins, the leading lady, is
an actress whose attainments are far be-
yond what would be expected from one Of
her youth. To the charm of girlishness she
adds discrimination and earnestness of pur-
pose.
exactions Of the part Of the Dauphn with
credit to himself and pleasure to the audi
ence.
The scenic accompaniments are complete
and elegant, but not exaggerated to a
degree which at any time permits the i'm
preston that 1t Is a spectacular production
and not performance of tragedy by
tragedians, which Is seeking the auditors
approval. "Richelieu" will be performed to-
night.
Grand Opera House.-Were 1t not for a
tendency to develop the comedy depart
ment of Shannon Of the 6th," produced
last night before its first Washington au-
dience, the play would be entitled to rank
among the frst-class melodramas of the
day. Mr.. w. H. Power. the star, sets the
pace from the moment of his first entrance.
and he thenceforth contributes most largely
to the comedy feature. 1t is, therefore, q
somewhat incongruous effect that Is pro-
duced, for the play has a really fine foun-
dation, and gives rise to two or three very
dramatic situations. notably the climax Of
the second act when the heroine is rescued
from the mouth of a cannon the instant
before 1t belches forth it's deadly charge
The scene is laid in India, during the