The Washington times., 1901-11-05
CoIumbin-LuIu CHASER, in "DoIIy
Nardcn.v

Lulu Chaser, the dainty comic opera
queen, who helred to found the reputa-
| tfon of Francis Wilson, made her first
successful appearance as a star last cven-
ing at the Colunsbia Theatre in Dolly
Warden" 1t will be recalled that Miss
Glaser appeared last season at the head
of her own company in an opera called
Sweet Anne Page which, while it
pleased Washington audiences, failed TO
prove popular in other cities. 1t is for
this reason that the adjective success
fur is used in this instance, for, unless
all signs fail, Miss Chaser has found
vehicle in Dolly Warden" that will carry
her rapidly to the front as a leading comic
opera star.
From the moment of her first appear
ance on the stage last night the large
audience took her to their hearts and ap-
plauded her every effort. Miss Glaser is
first of all comedienne, one who would
doubtless make success in. legitimate
dramatic work. but she has so long been
identified with opera that probably she
would find it difficult to please herself in
any other line of work. 1t can be truth
fully stated that Miss Glaser last night
pleased both herself and the audience.
The book of the opera in which Miss
Glaser appears was written by Stanisiaus
STANCE and the music is by Julian Ed
wards, colIaborators who have given
many pleasing operas to the stage. Dolly
5
ly brilliant style. The story is of the con-
ventional comic opera kind. 1t concerns
the adventures of a young country miss
who is taken to London by her guardian.
quickly acquires the manners ami likings
of the inodish London world, falls In love
with dashing military man. and niarrIes
in opposition to the wishes of her guar
. gian. IN the transition from the iwk-
ward bucolic TO the elegant lady Miss
Glaser exhibits remarkable ability. Her
humor is natural and delightful. This
much for her powers as ! coincidence.
Her ability as a vocalist is well known.
Mr.. Edwards music is as good-indeei
II is better than anything he has .et
| done. From the opening number, Swing,
tire two acts, the music displays a de-
licious swinging melody that car be best
described as being OF the catchy or
der. The. opera is replete with tuueful
airs, and IL IL had no other commendable
elements, the music alone would probably
make it a success.
Dolly Warden Che name is not taken
from the Dickens novel, "Barnaby
of Dresden china. The sirnlle is apt 1t
is the daintiest, prettiest play in which
Miss Chaser has ever appeared. The stage
settings and costumes are beautiful and
varied. arranged with delicate touch
and taste.
Mr.. Whitney has surrounded his star
with cast of uniform excellence. The
principals are not numerous. but they are
good. Van Rensselaer, Wheeler has the
leading male role. He Is pleasing to the
eye, and his voice Is fair. Richie Ling is
acceptable in the tenor role. Mark Smith,
who will be remembered for his good
work in '"Zaza," made a hit in the char
acter of a foppish exquisite. and Tom
Daniel. the basso, sang and acted well.
Harry Lott. a newcomer to the operatic
stage, did remarkably well and disclosed
a fine voice. Estelle Wentworth, last
year with the Bostonians, and a young
woman well known locally, was heartily
welcomed. and confirmed the good i'm
preston she made last season. Amelia
Fields also known in Washington. was
notable principally for her rich contralto
voice, while Adah Palmer Walker was
well received.
AT the conclusion of the first act (there
were only two). Miss Chaser was forced
TO deliver her duly chronicled extempora-
neous speech of thanks. which she did In
very pretty and intelligent manner.
Matinees Thursday and Saturday.