The news-democrat. (Providence, R.I.) 1906-1909, 1906-07-27
BOLD BLOW DEALT
THEATRICAL TRUST

(Continued from Page One.)
I could AFFORD to surrender one-third OF
my profits to the syndicate, though my
patrons were thus unable TO see the Inde-
pendent attractions I'm their own city.
when the Shubert- Belasco- Fiske COM
bination gained entrance to Providence,
and began playing the Independent at
fractions I'm another theatre, II was an
entirely different situation.
Through no fault OF my own, found
myself confronted with opposition; and
/ found my patrons subjected 10 incon-
venience concerning which they plainly
expressed their dissatisfaction.
Frequently they came 10 my theatre,
paying the regular price of admission. 10
see inferior attractions. while really first
class attractions could be seen for the
same price at another house; and there
was nothing that could do 10 help the
situation.
II wanted to give them every first-class
attraction possible. / had satisfied them
for years and wanted TO continue 10 do
so. In every way, It was a mighty bad
thing for me-
THE lessee of the house In which the
Independent attractions were playing was
not required TO surrender any OF his
profits to the Shuberts; and his attrac-
tions were OF a better class, taking the
average straight through. than my own.
II found myself in a position where I
was obliged TO meet heavy losses after
having realized substantial profits for
years. The patrons of my theatre. many
OF whom were not accustomed 10 pat
ronize other theatres and had their seats
by the season, urged me TO open my house
10 the Independent attractions.
81 finally concluded that I could not
close the doors OF my theatre TO such
pre-eminent attractions as were on the
list OF the Independents. when doing so
aH mo m n financial
10 create dissatisfaction among the pat
rons whose loyal support l have enjoyed
for years.
Furthermore. was driven TO a very
keen appreciation OF the fact that was
the chief sufferer in a quarrel which was
none OF my affair
"I determined. therefore. TO take what
seemed 20 me the best step In my own
behalf
'I would like 10 say TO every theatrf-
cal manager. whatever his affiliation and
whatever attractions he may control. and
TO all the famous stars with whom my
relations have been so pleasant, that as
far as I am concerned. my house is open
10 any deserving attraction. and that my
open time may be had on application.
IT am already busy opening negotia-
tions by wire and mail with a number OF
American and foreign artists of the high
est standing; and expect 10 offer local
theatre patrons the greatest dramatic
season this city has ever known.
II have also ordered new carpeting and
new seats for the balcony and many 9th
er improvements in the Providence Opera
House. which will likewise be renovated
throughout and in many ways will be
made more attractive than ever before"
What do the Shuberts intend TO do
with the Shubert theatre in this city?"
inquired the reporter.
"Of that" replied Col. wenderschaefer
II know nothing
'As you know. my connection with that
house ceased long ago; and the Shuberts
have not taken me into their confidence
as TO it's future.
"As / shall play their attractions, OF
course they will not be seen at the Shu-
bert theatre; and OF course whatever may
be their policy there will not concern