Evening star. [volume] (Washington, D.C.) 1854-1972, 1904-01-12
HE THEATE R.
Columbia Theater.

Every now and then. when aweary Of
struggling with new and mediocre roles,
when Fortune, the tickle jade. shows just
the trace Of frown. Francis Wilson turns
to .'Erminie'' for season of rest recupera-
ton and replenishment If such things
could happen these days, a modern Rip Van
Wrinkle, after his twenty years Of snoozing
could awake, yawn and stretching his trem-
bling limbs. exclatm :'If Francis Wilson's
playing Cadeaux, he will know me-"
Francis Wilson Is playing Cadeaux, and
playing 1t in a way that captivates the
younger generation of playgoers. while re-
newing the most pleasant memories among
the patrons Of the play whose support OF
the drama has oouo9nsd over decade or
have been no more delightful events of the
recurring seasons than the occasional re-
vivals of "Erp1nie," with Francis Wilson at
the head Of t1Rs enterprises. These REVEALS
have been growing constantly better until
now 1t would seem the limit of excellence
has about been reached with. the comic
opera material available on the American
stage. Mr.. Wilson has gathered about him
this year in glittering array such we'll
known players as Jessie Bartlett Davis, who
returns to the legitimate after reaping
golden revenue in vaudeville; Marguerite
Sylvia, whose facinating shapeliness in red
silken tights brought much renown to Pm
cess Chic two years ago; Madge Leasing,
who has been sojourning the past few sea-
sons in dear old London; William BrOderick.
resonant of voice, the late fortune-favored
hero of THE Toreador:" Senior Peruglni,
William c. Weldon, Jennie Weathersby.
Bobbe Bfoderick. and a goodly company of
Others, somewhat less Of fame, but none
the less energetic and capable as far as the
limitations of their roles or their positions
In the chorus demanded.
The production of 'Erminie" as seen at
the Columbia last night may be rightfully
considered as one of the most important
re of ha
the food of doubtful propositions that have
been sent forth to lure the coins from the
carelessly tied purses of the theatergOers
this year, it is, indeed gratifying and reas-
surfing to enjoy a performance of a stand
ard work like this, interpreted by a cast of
players SO we'll known to Danish all
thought that they could make up anything
but notable Offering.
In the matter of scenic establishment,
costuming and the other accessories Of
modern stagecraft, the production Is as
noteworthy as in the matter of principals.
Vieing with cast and costumes is numer-
ically strong and vocally proficient chorus.
The chorus members seem thoroughly en-
thusiastic in their work and are evidently
glad of an opportunity to revel In score
that calls for some attachments in their
particular line of stage endeavor. The en-
semble singing Is one of the delights of the
production. 1t would be difficult to give to
each principal in this stellar cast individual
recognition for the cleverness that Is APP
parent throughout the opera. Each one con-
tributes his or her share with prodigal earn
estness and complete ability. The Cadeaux
of Mr.. Wilson is the same effervescent
characterization as of yore. Mr.. Broderick
plays "Ravvy" with true sense Of it's i'm
portance. -Madge Leasing can well be i'm
agined by playgoers familiar with her per-
sonality as very charming Javotte. Jessie
Bartless Davis Is cast as Capt. Delaney,
with Perugini the Chevalier Miss Davis
is a familiar figure in tights. She recalls
the days of Robin Hood" and the immortal
"Oh, Promise Me- with which she will ever
be associated, and which she gave as an
encore last night. Marguerite Sylvia, as
"Erminie'' has the attractive qualities that
make the role so pleasing. Mr.. Weldon
has tenor which at times attains to bril-
liancy. Mr.. Wilson and Miss Leasing. in a
duet, Joseph, James and JOHN made I'M
questionably the hit Of the evening. This
bit was supplemented by speech from Mr..
Wilson in which he humorously and char
acteristically addressed the audience as
Ladies and gentlemen, and people of
GEORGETOWN"