The Red Cloud chief., 1897-07-09

dSdihs III udNC
been discussed. arguments have been
advanced, pro and con, essays and lee
lures nave been made public, but the
project has never taken on definite
shape or progress. To establish a thea
ter that would reflect credit as a ma
tional organization; to erect suitable
buildings, with all the necessary scenic
equipment; to engage the high class
actors and secure the high class plays
such a theater would call for, would
require an immense outlay of money,
and besides the immediate expenses. a
sufficient sum for future obligations
would have to be contributed or al
lowed. The Theater Franchise, which
seems to be the ideal theater Of the
world. Is under the control OF the
French government; actors enter ITS
service for a stated term Of years, and
while the training and surroundings
are ~undeniably of inestimable benefit
to a player. many have been glad when
their engagements expired. OF course
the highest forms Of art are fostered
under the auspices of an organization
like this; the finest dramas and the
most finished acting are possible, but
would such a project be practical in
America? We are SO democratic, and
commercfalism has invaded the drama
to such an extent that 1t would take us
some time to become used TO q subsL
died theater. And 1t does not e
likely that our government would en-
dow such an institution; IL It ever
comes to pass, 4 will be more apt TO be
supported by private subscriptions of
wealthy citizens. Besides, supported
by the government, would not such a
theater In this country be subject to
the corrupting influence Of party pol
itics, the wire pulling, the red tape,
and the personal preferences OF its d.
%rectors? And, on the whole. would a
national theater, conducted the way We
fear 1t would be done in this country.
either benefit the cause Of art or up-
hold the drama?
"The Mysterious Mr.. Bugle" Is the
title OF a bright and entertaining farce
which was presented at the Lyoeum
theater. New York. lately. The au-
thor is Mrs. Madeline Lucette Ryley,
who has already produced two other
admirable comedies, and who gives
promise Of becoming one OF the fore
most dramatists Of America. "The
Mysterious Mr.. Bugle" is a light and
airy piece, sufficiently humorous to
amuss. with much sparkling dialogue
and considerable highly original "busi-
ness" the creation of Mrs. Ryley's W
clever brain. Annie Russell made her
debut In farce in this play, and dis
played much aptness for the new role:
Joseph Holland and Guy Standing
were admirable In light comedy parts.
A very pretty romance has developed
during the season In the Lyceum COM
pany. Last fall Mr.. Frohman brought
to America o new leading woman, who
soon blossomed from a complete stran-
ger into q warm favorite with New
York audiences. In every play in
which she appeared the leading man
was compelled by the. Sxigencies Of his
part 70 make violent love to her. The
task must have been a pleasant one
for the lady was young and beautiful,
as well as gifted, and It now appears
that the love making which seemed
such excellent stimulation ON the part
of the young man was the real thing.
and that the young lady was inclined
to look with favor upon his gallant