A Night in Venice:: (Australian Variety 11 Oct. 1918, 13)

1918
Harry Clay's South-West NSW circuit closed over the winter months, re-opening in early October (Australian Variety 11 Oct.
1918, 13). The slightly warmer weather conditions on offer in the state's Hunter Valley region saw him begin operating a circuit
there from August, however.
Hugh D. McIntosh's engagement of American producer, Lester Brown, saw a number of musical comedies staged at the
Sydney Tivoli during the year - notably The Million Dollar Girl (Apr.). None of these shows are believed to have been locally
written, however, although they did often feature Australians in the lead roles - notably George Edwards and Vera Spraull (The
Million Dollar Girl). Spraull's performance in that production saw the Theatre Magazine suggest she might become Australia's
second Dorothy Brunton (May 1918, 33). Another well-received production was Time Please (ca. May), which the Theatre
describes as "a combination of revue and musical comedy" (June 1918, 29).
Harry Sadler's company, which left the Princess Theatre (Sydney) in late March for a season at Perth's Melrose Theatre,
would have very likely reproduced a number of revusicals staged in the weeks and months previous to their departure. The details
are yet to be established, however.
The Fullers also presented a series of revues at their National Theatre (Sydney) during 1918 which were imported from
America. The Elixir of Love (May 25) and The Back to Nature Club (ca. June) were staged by Al Bruce (recently arrived from
the USA). The Theatre Magazine notes that The Elixir of Love had been brought to Australia by Bruce. "None the less," writes
the magazine's X-Ray, "he has to be credited with so having used the people and material placed at his disposal as to get what is -
for freshness and sustained interest - probably the best revue the Fuller patrons have yet had an opportunity of witnessing" (June
1918, 29). Indications are, too, that Bruce adapted these productions for Australian audiences. For example his character in The
Elixir of Love is called Hank Dinkumflater, while The King of Patagonia, also includes a photographic representative from the
Sydney Truth. Bruce was still touring his revusicals throughout the Antipodes in late 1919, with most by that stage containing
higher levels of local material (see 1919 entries).
The Scarlet Gaieties, a company run by Harry Scales (manager) and H. Flockton Foster (director) played a season of more
than 30 weeks at Perth's Olympia Theatre before opening in Adelaide on 29 June. It has not yet been established what type of
programme the company offered but may well have involved a number of revusical-style shows. Among the cast was George
Sharratt (later of Sharratt and Lang), whose career saw him produce several popular revusicals of his own creation. The Scarlet
Gaieties are believed to have travelled to Tasmania after Adelaide, followed by a tour of New Zealand (Theatre Magazine June 1918,
20).
Everybody's Doing It, staged by Hugh D. McIntosh at the Tivoli (Sydney) in December does not seem to have any
relationship to Arthur Morley revue of the same name staged in 1917. The Tivoli show is believed to have been an English revue
dating back to 1913. The Tivoli production, which may or may not have been adapted for the local stage, included among the cast
Lottie Sargent, Elsie Parkes, Charles Workman and J. A. Lipman (as Moses Margulus).
_________
A NIGHT IN VENICE: [revusical] Txt. Les Williams; Mus. [n/e]

Described as an "entirely new musical playlet" (Brisbane Courier 5 Jan. 1918, 7).
1918: Palace Gardens, Brisbane; 4-10 Jan.
- Dir. Walter George; Mngr. Thomas J. Rayment.
- Troupe: Smart Set.
- Cast incl. Walter George, Georgie Martin, Les Coney, Harry de Robeck, Gwen Gaylor.
- Musicians: Bijou Orchestra.
1921: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 8-12 Oct.
- Dir. Walter George; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd.
- Troupe: Walter George Sunshine Players.
- Cast incl. Walter George, Jim Gerald, Essie Jennings, Reg Hawthorne, Hylda Shannon, Georgie Martin, Percy
McKay, Polly McLaren, Frank Haining.
- This was the company's final production for the 1921 Bijou Theatre season.
THIRTY THOUSAND MILES A MINUTE: [revusical] Txt. Art Slavin; Mus. [n/e]
Described in advertising as "A Fast Production." Some advertising
also refers to it as Three Thousand Miles a Minute, (or 30,000 Miles a
Minute), while one review calls it Twenty Thousand Miles Under the
Sea (Kitching, n. pag.).
The Theatre Magazine's vaudeville editor, X-Ray, writes of this
production: "The features of the first- part revue… are Art Slavin's
staggersome make-up as a spiritualist, with big goggles eyes and a
profusion of red curly hair; and the freak appearance presented by Fred
Webber as Adolphus Quince… Mr Slavin is the life and soul of the
revue" (41).
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 12-18 Jan.
- Dir. Art Slavin; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd;
Charters Towers: Northern Miner 27 June (1918), 2.

S Art. Alec Stagpoole; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel.
- Troupe: Art Slavin Revue Company.
- Cast incl. Art Slavin (spiritualist), Fred Webber (Adolphus Quince), Will Carlyon, George Crotty, Alice Walton, Ida
Jarvis, Lily Thompson.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. Jan/Feb.
- Cast and production mostly as for previous Bridge Theatre season.
1918: Harry Clay's Queensland regional tour; May- ca. July/Aug.
- B Mngr. Wally Edwards; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; T Mngr. Art Slavin; M Dir. Mary Chesney.
- Troupe: Harry Clay's Musical Revue and Vaudeville Company.
- Cast incl. Lalla Brooke, Clyde Cameron, George Crotty, the Four Kings, Ida Jarvis, Wal Rockley, Art Slavin (the
Spiritualist), Lily Thompson.
- Musician: Mary Chesney (piano).
Kitching, Harry. Australian Variety 18 Jan. (1918), n. pag.
X-Ray. "Month in Vaudeville" Theatre Magazine Feb. (1918), 41.
MY GYPSY MAID: [musical playlet] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

Described in 1918 as a "musical playlet ("Smart Set," 15), some of the songs presented during the Brisbane season were: "A
Paradise for Two" (sung by Lalla Knight and Robert Roper); "Love will Fade" (Knight); "Come Back Little Girl" (Roper); "I
Want Something to Practice On" (Coney); and "Do a Little Loving Every Day" (Coney and Knight).
NB: It is not clear what connection (if any) this revusical had with two similarly-titled productions, the musical scena Life in a Gipsy
Camp, staged in Brisbane during November 1918 by Hugh Huxham's Serenaders; and My Gypsy Girl, a burlesque produced by Walter Johnson's
Town Topics Company in Oct/Nov. 1919.
1918: Palace Gardens, Brisbane; 25-31 Jan.
- Cast incl. Walter George, Georgie Martin, Les Coney, Harry de Robeck, Gwen
Gaylor, Lalla Knight, Robert Roper.
1921: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 10-16 Sept.
- Cast incl. Walter George, Jim Gerald, Essie Jennings, Reg Hawthorne, Hylda
Shannon, Georgie Martin, Percy McKay, Polly McLaren, Frank Haining.
- Other revusicals stage during the 1921 Bijou Theatre season included The King of
Dunnowhereski, The Scarab, A Dutch Legacy, A Night in Venice and Way Down in
Arizone.
"Smart Set, The." Brisbane Courier 26 Jan. (1918), 15.
Brisbane Courier 25 Jan. (1918), 2.
KEYSTONE POLICEMEN: [burlesque] Txt. Arthur Helmsley; Mus. [n/e]

A burlesque/revusical style entertainment based on the popular Keystone Cops series of films. John N. McCallum also
produced another "Keystone burlesque," Stop Thief, later in the year, under the auspices of Hugh Huxham's Serenader's (11-17
Oct.). It is not clear whether any relationship exists between the two pieces.
1918: Cremorne Theatre, Brisbane; 25-31 Jan.
- Dir. Sydney Mannering; Prod. John N. McCallum (Dandies Qld Ltd).
- Troupe: John McCallum's Courtiers.
- Cast incl. Arthur Helmsley, Elsa May [Brull], Linda Dale, Harry Borrodale, Joe Brennan, Colin Crane, Sydney
Mannering, Nesta Barry, Madge Griffiths, Leslie Holmes, Lalla Knight, Miss Ira Love, Connie Milne, George
Pownall, Violet Sylvester, Ford Waltham.
- Musicians: Federal Band.
HOW TO GET RID OF A MOTHER-IN-LAW: [revusical] Txt. Arthur Morley; Mus. [n/e]
1918: Princess Theatre, Sydney; 26 Jan. - 1 Feb.
- Dir. Arthur Morley; Prod/Lse. Harry Sadler; Prop. Fullers' Theatres Ltd .
- Cast incl. Jack Kearns, Phyllis Faye, Marjorie Hammond, Elsie Bates (the mother-in-law),; and The Baby Dolls.
- Musicians incl. James Stewart (piano).
Kitching, Harry. Australian Variety 1 Feb. (1918), n. pag.
TWO STAR BOARDERS: [revusical] Txt. Maurice Chenoweth; Mus. [n/e]
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. Jan/Feb.
- Dir. Maurice Chenoweth; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Art. Alec Stagpoole.
- Cast incl. Maurice Chenoweth, Ted Stanley, Ern Crawford, Lulu Eugene (Betsy), Eileen and Bessie Phillips, Lalla
Ward.
BY THE SILVERY SEA: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

1918: Palace Gardens, Brisbane; 1-7 Feb.
LORD FOR A NIGHT: [revusical] Txt. Arthur Morley; Mus. [n/e]

Positioning a lead character in a situation whereby they temporarily find themselves above their station (either for a night or
day) was a popular theme for minstrel farces, musical comedies and revusicals. It is therefore unclear whether any relationship
existed between Arthur Morley's production and those which preceded it.
NB: A 1907 two act musical comedy called A Knight for a Day, was first staged at Wallack's Theatre, New York in December 1907. It is
also known to have been staged in Australia prior to Morley's revusical (see Her Majesty's Theatre, Sydney 9 July 1910). Several minstrel farces
are also known to have been staged in Australia the mid-to-late 1890s. One of these, titled A Lord for a (K)night was presented in 1895 as part of
a night of variety and 'refined minstrelsy' under the direction of Frank York and George A. Jones (24 Aug. Empire Theatre, Syd). The farce is
likely to have involved the 'Australian team' of Tom Delohery, James Craydon and Ted Holland, who were then engaged as the company's
principal comedy sketch team. A similarly titled farce, A Lord for a Night, was later staged by Delohery, Craydon and Holland during their Elite
Vaudeville Company season at the Brisbane Theatre Royal in 1899 (beginning 4 Feb.). Another variation on this theme was Ted Holland's An
M.P. for a Night, first known to have been staged by Holland's Vaudeville Entertainers at the Brisbane Theatre Royal on 14 January 1905.
Interestingly, Arthur Morley was engaged by Holland in Brisbane and Queensland during much of 1905.
1918: Princess Theatre, Sydney; 2-8 Feb.
- Dir. Arthur Morley; Prod/Lse. Harry Sadler; Prop. Fullers' Theatres Ltd.
- Cast incl. Jack Kearns, Lalla Brooke, Phyllis Faye, Harry Little, Elsie Bates, the Baby Dolls.
DR CROKER'S ASYLUM: [revusical] Txt. Joe Rox; Mus. [n/e]

Also referred to as Doctor Baker's Asylum (Australian Variety 15 Feb. 1918, n. pag.). It is not clear whether this revusical shares
any relationship with Dr Dippy's Asylum, staged in 1918 by Bert Le Blanc's company. Australian Variety notes that Joe Rox's
impersonation of a Jew was one he had success with (Australian Variety 1 Feb. 1918, n. pag.).
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 2-8 Feb.
- Dir. Joe Rox; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Art. Alec Stagpoole; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel.
- Troupe: Joe Rox Revue Company.
- Cast incl. Joe Rox (Isaac Moses), Dave Warne, Ida Merton, Jack Cox, Ted Tutty, Amy Costello, Clyde Cameron, Dot
Brown.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. Feb.
COHEN AND LEVI AT MONTE CARLO: [revusical] Txt. Bert Le Blanc; Mus. [n/e]
The two Hebrew larrikins, Ike Cohen and Morris Levi, find themselves in Monte Carlo where the fun never stops and neither
do they. Two of the features of the 1918 Bijou Theatre season were a burlesque on banking methods and a procession of infants-
in-arms. The war theme was also carried into the musical programme with one of the songs, "By the Side of the Aegean Sea"
(sung by Carlton Chase) having been written especially in memoriam for Australian soldiers who fell at Gallipoli.
1918: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 9-15 Feb.
- Dir. Bert Le Blanc; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd.
- Troupe: Bert Le Blanc's Revue Stars
- Cast incl. Bert Le Blanc (Ike), Jake Mack (Morris), Queenie Paul, Ivy Moore, Clym Edgares, Carlton Chase (General
Steel), Mike Connors, Fred Witt, Winnie Knight [aka Mrs Bert Le Blanc], Dot Bellion.
"Bijou Theatre." Age 11 Feb. (1918), 9.
"Bijou Theatre." Argus 11 Feb. (1918), 8.
HALF PAST TWENTY-EIGHT: [revusical] Txt. Art Slavin; Mus. [n/e]
Described in Australian Variety as "a new revue of the 1999 order written by Art Slavin" (Kitching, n. pag.).
- Dir. Art Slavin; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Art. Alec Stagpoole; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel.
- Cast incl. George Crotty, Will Carlyon, Ida Jarvis, Art Slavin, Lily Thompson.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. Feb/Mar.
THE SCARAB: [revusical] Txt. Les Williams; Mus. [n/e]

Described in advertising as a "musical playlet."
1918: Palace Gardens, Brisbane; 15-21 Feb.
1921: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 24-30 Sept.
- Cast incl. Walter George, Jim Gerald, Essie Jennings, Reg Hawthorne, Hylda Shannon, Georgie Martin, Percy
McKay, Polly McLaren, Frank Haining.
YAKA HULA HICKEY DULA: [revusical] Txt. Arthur Morley; Mus. [n/e]
Described in the Theatre Magazine (X-Ray, 33) as Arthur Morley's original one act Hawaiian extravaganza, and in Australian
Variety as "an original one act pantomime" (15 Feb. 1918, n. pag.). One reason for this last reference may be the dame role that Jack
Kearns played in the production.
1918: Princess Theatre, Sydney; 16-22 Feb.
- Dir. Arthur Morley; Prod/Lse. Harry Sadler; Prop. Fullers' Theatres Ltd .
- Cast incl. Jack Kearns (Maggie Dooley), Lalla Brooke, Elsie Bates (the princess), Arthur Morley, Madge Moore.
X-Ray. "Month in Vaudeville." Theatre Magazine Mar. (1918), 33-4.
LANKY AND BULKY AT THE FAIR: [revusical] Txt. George Pagden; Mus. [n/e]
The Theatre was seemingly unimpressed with this revusical, apart from the role taken by Will Gilbert. The magazines review
notes: "George Pagden as bulky (I'm speaking of him as I saw him on February 21) is wasting his time. He ought to be performing
on a beer-cask down in a cellar. Hadn't the usually alert Mr Clay anything to say to him on the occasion in question. Ted Tutty is
not nearly so funny with an unblackened face in the first half as he is a nigger in the second… Will Gilbert admirably fills the bill
as Lanky. There has never been a lankier man than Mr Gilbert on the Australian stage" (X-Ray, 33).
- S Art. Alec Stagpoole; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel.
- Cast incl. George Pagden (Bulky), Will Gilbert (Lanky), Ted Tutty, Harry Clay, Kitty Stanley
- Cast and production mostly as for previous Bridge Theatre season (without Tutty and Clay). Tour Manager: Wally
Edwards
X-Ray. "Month in Vaudeville." Theatre Magazine Mar. (1918), 33.
NOSEY PARKER NOSE: [revusical] Txt. George Edwards; Mus. [n/e]

Written by George Edwards (of Edwards and Parkes-fame), Harry Kitching's review in Australian
Variety proposes that it was one of the finest and biggest laugh getters see at the Bridge Theatre for some
time (n. pag.).
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 23 Feb. - 1 Mar.
- Cast incl. Ted Stanley, Lulu Eugene, James Caldwell (Rasputin), the Four Kings.
Kitching, Harry. Australian Variety 1 Mar. (1918), n. pag.
George Edwards. Green Room Apr. (1918), 10.

FUN IN A POLICE COURT: [revusical] Txt. Joe Rox; Mus. [n/e]
"Fun in a Police Court, was a laugh from start to finish, writes Harry Kitching.. One apparent fault with the production,
however, was the quality of the bathing costumes. "Why did not the girls dress like Ida Merton," asks Kitching. "She stood out on
her own and made the others look so awful with their rough costumes" (n. pag.).
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 2-8 Mar.
- Dir. Joe Rox; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Co; S Art. Alec Stagpoole; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel.
- Cast incl. Joe Rox, Wal Rockley, Clyde Cameron, May Kerry, Maurice Chenoweth (the Lawyer), Ida Merton.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. Mar.
Kitching, Harry. Australian Variety 8 Mar. (1918), n. pag.
LANKY AND BULKY IN PARIS: [revusical] Txt. George

Pagden; Mus. [n/e]
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); ca. Mar.
- S Art. Alec Stagpoole; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Mngr.
Ted Gabriel.
- Cast incl. George Pagden (Bulky), Will Gilbert (Lanky), Kitty
Stanley.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales
circuits; ca. Mar/Apr.
- Cast and production mostly as for previous Bridge Theatre
season. Tour Manager: Wally Edwards Blue Mountain Echo (Katoomba) 23 Mar. (1918), 3.
ALADDIN AND THE WONDERFUL LAMP: [pantomime] Lib. [n/e]; Mus incl. Robert Keers
Once upon a time in a town of Tartary, there lived a tailor named Mustapha, so poor that he could hardly maintain himself,
his wife, and his idle son, Aladdin…. This "new version of the Eastern story" involves a weird and wily magician, who along with
his Slave of the Lamp, coverts the magic lamp. Although the authorship of this pantomime is yet to be established, it was likely to
have been written and/or adapted by Bert Bailey with the possible assistance of director, Barry Lupino, and perhaps Julius Grant.
The Sydney Morning Herald writes of the production as being "three hours and a half of strenuous movement and constant scenic
changes" with a story that "has the merit of giving a good deal of the original tale" ("Aladdin," 5).
Songs known to have been incorporated into the pantomime include: "Over There," "Love's Garden of Roses" and "For Me
and My Gal" (sung by Winifred La France); a song sung to the tune of "Splish, Splash, Splosh" and "What there was Good"
(Barry Lupino), "Daddy Moon" and "Down in Dolly Town" (Perry), and "When the Band Plays Home, Sweet Home" (de Baere).
1918: Palace Theatre, Sydney; 9 Mar. -
- Dir. Barry Lupino; Prod. J. and N. Tait, Bert Bailey and Julius Grant; Lse. J. and N. Tait; M Dir. Robert Keers;
S Art. Alfred Clint and William Rowell.
- Cast incl. Bert Bailey (Widow Twankey), Barry Lupino, Winifred La France (Aladdin), Olive Goodwin (Princess
Badroulbadour), Fayette Perry (Nicea), Zola Terrell, Andrew Higginson (The Emperor), Fred Monument, Lalla de
Baere (Prince Pekoe), Gladys Thomas, Fred McDonald (Boobie), Leslie Donoghey (Georgie), Bert Barton (The
Wizard), Billy Brown (Vizler), Bonnie Quinlan, Jack Heller and Joe Morris ('Orace the Horse).
"Aladdin." Sydney Morning Herald 11 Mar. (1918), 5.
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK: [pantomime] Lib. Harry Farrow; Mus. Incl. Louie Farrow
The Argus reports: "Australia seems to be on the way to [becoming] a country of perpetual pantomime. Four entertainments
of the kind (one in moving picture form) have already been given in Melbourne during the seasons that opened with the Christmas
holidays. A fifth production began at the Tivoli on Saturday and a sixth is not far distant. Pantomime is unusual at the Tivoli,
though the late Mr Harry Rickards staged entertainments of the kind some years ago. Jack and the Beanstalk is presented by Mr
William Anderson, and Harry and Louie Farrow are responsible for the present version of the old fairy story. Mr Farrow (who
appeared in Melbourne in a dame role a few years ago) plays Dame Trot in quaint and amusing style, and Mrs Farrow conducts
the orchestra" ("Pantomime," 9).
Some of the principal characters are described as: Dame Trot (a garrulous shrew), Jack Trot (Dame Trot's son, the pride of
Sleepy Hollow), Princess Durina (in love with Jack), and Tim and Joe (plotters deep and silent). Two features of the production
according to the Age theatre critic were a scene from Toyland and a travesty on house decorators performed by George Welch and
Billy Rego (ibid, 9).
The scenic settings were: Act 1 Sc 1. The Dragon's Den, the Home of the Demon; Sc 2. Sleepy Hollow in Spring Time; Sc 3.
Corridor of the King's Palace; Sc 4. The Hall of Toyland; Sc 5. Sydney Street in 1930; Sc 6. The Village Fair; Sc 7. Dame Trot's
Humble Home; Sc 8. Giant's Castle in the Realm of Fancy; Act 2 Sc 1. The Island of Palms; Sc 2. Outside the Giant's Castle; Sc 3.
Hall in the Giant's Castle; Sc 4. The Giant's Garden; Sc 5. Sam Kee's Laundry; Sc 6. The Palace of Happiness.
Among the songs incorporated in the pantomime were: "My Gramophone Girl," sung by Mabelle Morgan to much acclaim,
particularly in response to the high notes she hit (ibid, 9) and "I'm in Love with the Boy of My Dreams" and the "Swing Song"
(Ethel Bennetto) .
1918: Tivoli Theatre, Melbourne; 9-22 Mar.
- Dir. Harry Farrow; Prod. William Anderson (in assoc. with Hugh D. McIntosh/Harry Rickards' Tivoli Theatres Ltd);
Mus Dir/Cond. Louie Farrow; S Art. J. J. Ricketts and Rege Robbins; Chor. Daisy Sylvester.
- Cast incl. Mabelle Morgan (Jack Trot), Harry Farrow (Dame Trot), Ethel Bennetto (Princess Durina),Vera Benson
(Alice, Dame Trot's daughter), Walter Champney (Miffins, a man about the house), Barry Hitchings (Giant
Blunderbore), George Welch (Tim, a servant of the giant), Billy Rego (another servant), Holly Leslie (Demon King),
Rawdon Blanford (King Doodledum), Yorke Gray (Duke de Helpia, the Giant's secretary), Maudie Goldspink (Prince
Doodledum), Ricardo and Smith (Jessie, the cow), Daisy Sylvester (Spirit of the Times), The Broadway Four.
- Other characters incl. Sprites, Demons, Fairies, Sea Nymphs and Gnomes.
- The production advertisement (Argus 9 Mar. 1918, 24) indicates that the Fairy Queen (Jack's guardian angels) was to
be played by Madge de Vere. The review published in the Argus two days later notes that the role was undertaken by
Marjorie Santley.
"Pantomime: Jack and the Beanstalk at the Tivoli." Argus 11 Mar. (1918), 9.
"Tivoli Theatre - Jack and the Beanstalk." Age 11 Mar. (1918), 9.
THE JOLLY TAR: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

"A musical comedy something out of the ordinary [The Jolly Tar] was well received," records Australian Variety. Rather too
dramatic, [though] and the artistes were mostly seen at a disadvantage. The comedy work of Ted Stanley was somewhat limited"
(n. pag.).
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 23-29 Mar.
- S Art. Alec. Stagpoole; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel.
- Cast incl. Ted Stanley, Lulu Eugene (the bride), Alf Edwards, Eileen and Bessie Phillips, Ern Crawford, James
Caldwell, Lalla Ward.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits; Apr.
Australian Variety 30 Mar. (1918), n. pag.
DOOLAN'S BIGHT: [revusical] Txt. Art Slavin; Mus. [n/e]

This revue, written by Art Slavin, "proved a big success. One of the features of the bill being… Slavin's parodies" (Australian
Variety 3 May 1918, n. pag.).
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 6-12 Apr.
- Dir. Art Slavin; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Art. Alec Stagpoole; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel.
- Cast incl. Art Slavin, Lily Thompson, Ida Jarvis, Lalla Brooke, Alf Edwards, Will Carlyon, Wal Rockley, George
Crotty, Alec Davidson, Molly Ambrose.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. Apr/May
- Sydney circuit incl. Princess Theatre (7 Apr. - 3 May)
Kitching, Harry. Australian Variety 3 May (1918), n. pag.
MIXED GOODS: [revusical] Txt. George Edwards; Mus. [n/e]

1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 20-26 Apr.
- S Art. Alec Stagpoole; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Theatres Ltd; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel.
- Troupe: Ted Stanley Revue Company.
- Cast incl. Ted Stanley (valet/dame), Lulu Eugene, Ern Crawford, James Caldwell, Phillip Sisters, Lalla Ward.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. Apr/May (incl. Princess Theatre; 4-10
May)
LANKY AND BULKY AS FARMERS: [revusical] Txt. George Pagden; Mus. [n/e]
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); ca. Apr.
- Cast incl. George Pagden (Bulky), Will Gilbert (Lanky), Kitty Stanley.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. Apr.
- Cast and production mostly as for previous Bridge Theatre season. Tour Manager: Wally Edwards.
WHO'S THE EARL: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]
Also referred to as Finding an Earl (Australian Variety 24 May 1918, n. pag.), Harry Kitching records that the revusical
contained an unusual amount of dialogue, much of it uninteresting, and a cast, most of who were misplaced (n. pag.).
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 4-10 May
- Cast incl. Will Dyson, Will Carlyon, Vera Benson, Grace Quine.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. May/June
- Princess Theatre, Sydney; 25-31 May.
CHINAMEN: [revusical] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]

1918: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 4-10 May
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd.
- Troupe: Nat Phillips' Stiffy and Mo Company.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Roy Rene (Mo), Daisy Merritt, Caddy
Franks, Horace Mann, Dan M. Dunbar, Peter Brooks, Belle Pollard,
Walter Jackson [aka Walter Whyte], Vince Courtney, Cliff O'Keefe.
1919: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 16-22 Aug.
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; M Dir. W. Hamilton
Webber; S Mngr. Dan M. Dunbar.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Daisy Merritt, Caddy Franks, Horace
Mann, Amy Rochelle, Walter Jackson [aka Walter Whyte], Chester
Harris, Dan M. Dunbar, Peter Brooks, Maisie Posner, Jack Dennis.
- Advertising for this production records: "Funnier than ever, irresistible in
their popular appeal these big Australian favourites today head a revue in
which they will introduce their famous acrobatic burlesque from The
Babes in the Wood" (Sydney Morning Herald 16 Aug. 1919, 2).
Nat Phillips, Roy Rene and Daisy Merritt.

Fred Parsons. A Man Called Mo (1973), 10
CAPTAIN KETTLE: [revusical] Txt. George Pagden; Mus. [n/e]

- Dir. George Pagden; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Co; S Art. Alec Stagpoole; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel.
- Cast incl. George Pagden, Kitty Stanley, Billy Brown, Kitty Clinton, George Livingstone, Marshall Crosby, Alma
Mayo, Max Martin.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. May
IN THE SURF: [aka MIXED BATHING / SURFERS / ON THE BEACH] [revusical] Txt. Nat
Phillips; Mus. [n/e]
The songs incorporated into the 1918 Brisbane season included "Arabian Maid," "The Right Man's Arms" and "My Love."
1918: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 11-17 May [as Mixed Bathing] [return season 3-10 Aug.]
- Cast incl. Arthur Helmsley, Elsa May [Brull], Linda Dale, Harry Borrodale, Joe Brennan, Colin Crane, Sydney
Mannering, Nesta Barry, Madge Griffiths, Leslie Holmes, Lalla Knight, Miss Ira Love, Connie Milne, George
Pownall, Violet Sylvester, Ford Waltham.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Roy Rene (Mo), Daisy Merritt, Caddy Franks, Horace Mann, Dan M. Dunbar, Peter
Brooks, Belle Pollard, Walter Jackson [aka Walter Whyte], Vince Courtney, Cliff O'Keefe.
- Some scenes from In the Surf - staged under the alternative title Mixed Bathing - were staged during the final week of
the 1918 Brisbane season (3-9 Aug.), in addition to another Stiffy and Mo revusical, The Lords.
1919: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 31 May - 6 June
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; M Dir. W. Hamilton Webber; S Mngr. Dan M. Dunbar.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Daisy Merritt, Caddy Franks, Horace Mann, Amy Rochelle, Walter Jackson [aka
Walter Whyte], Chester Harris, Dan M. Dunbar, Peter Brooks, Maisie Posner, Jack Dennis.
1920: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 13-19 Mar. [as Surfers]
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Amy Rochelle, Daisy Merritt, Caddy Franks, Horace Mann, Dan M. Dunbar, Will
Liddle, Lou Harris.
- Surfers was the opening production for the 1920 Bijou Theatre (Melb) season. It also marked Amy Rochelle's first
appearance in Melbourne with the company.
1929: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 13-19 July [as On the Beach]
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; M Dir. Tiny Douglas.
- Troupe: Nat Phillips' Whirligigs.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Jack Kellaway ('Erb), Daisy Merritt, Al Mack, Cecil Scott, Tom Collins, Kitty Stewart,
May Webster, Sylvia Gardner, Paul Daley, Belle Pollard, Eve Fenelly, Marjorie Vause; and the Radio Six.
- Musicians: Tiny's Varsity Boys; incl. Tiny Douglas (violin), Art Dwar (banjo/guitar), Don Bennett (piano).
DUSTMEN: [revusical] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]

1918: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 18-24 May
THERE'S MILLIONS IN IT: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

Also referred to as Millions in It. Australian Variety writes: "The revue is very weak, and did not give the artists a chance, the
material not being there to work on" (n. pag.).
- Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Art. Alec Stagpoole; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel.
- Cast incl. Ted Stanley, James Caldwell, Ern Crawford, Lulu Eugene, Eileen and Bessie Phillips, Amy Rochelle, Jolly
John Larkin, Les Coney, Maggie Buckley, Alf Edwards.
- Suburban circuit incl. Princess Theatre; 8-14 June.
Australian Variety 21 June (1918), n. pag.
COBBERS: [revusical] Txt. Billy Watson; Mus. [n/e]

1918: Princess Theatre, Sydney; 18-24 May
- Dir. Joe Rox; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Art. Alec Stagpoole.
- Cast incl. Billy Watson, Joe Rox, Ida Merton, Nellie Holden, Joe Barnes, Alec Davidson, Vera Waldron.
ELIXIR OF LOVE: [revusical] Txt. Al Bruce; Mus. [n/e]

American producer/writer Al Bruce came to Australasia for the
Fullers in 1918, bringing with him a number of revusicals. He is believed
to have adapted these productions for Australian audiences right from the
start. The inclusion of Australian references can be seen in some
characters (e.g. Hank Dinkumflater in Elixir of Love) and situations (the
photographic representative for the Sydney Truth in The King of
Patagonia). This revusical is said to have concerned militant suffragettes
(Brisbane Courier 29 Nov. 1919, 12).
1918: National Theatre, Sydney; 25-31 May
- Dir. Al Bruce; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd.
- Cast incl. Al Bruce (Hal Dinkumflater) Mabelle Morgan,
Walter Cornock, Ysabelle Groves, Robert Raymond, Samuel
Clark, Nellie Fallon, Sam Wallace, Muriel Dale.
1919: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 13-19 Dec.
- Dir. Al Bruce; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; Chor. Nellie Fallon.
- Cast incl. Al Bruce (Hank Binkumflater), Mabelle Morgan
(Mrs Lovely Kidder), Letty Craydon, D'Arcy Kelway, Les
Shipp, Robert Raymond, Milton Owen, Ysabelle Groves; and
The Rosebuds (chorus).
Evening News (Sydney)
24 May (1918), 8.
- Other productions staged during the 1919/20 season included: Hello Papa, The King of Patagonia and Lulu.
NB: Ysabelle Groves also known as Isabel Groves.
"Empire Theatre." Brisbane Courier 15 Dec. (1919), 9.
TOYLAND: [extravaganza] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

"Animated dolls in the persons of the members of the company [hold] a carnival… the dolls come to life - as most
pleasurably excited children do - at an early hour, to wit 4 am, and after their excitability [has] been held in some reasonable
check by the policeman, they [proceed] to enjoy the 'boy' and 'girl' dancing of Miss Dale and Miss Violet Sylvester, whilst they
retire to rest - late in comparison with their hour of rising - at 6am" ("Courtiers," 4).
One of the songs known to have been presented as part of the production was: "Toyland," sung by Madge Griffith as she is
carried off to Toyland by her faithful swan.
NB: It is not clear whether there is any relationship between this production and a Christmas pantomime with a similar title, written by
George Edwards, and first produced by Harry Clay in Sydney in Dec. 1917.
1918: Cremorne Theatre, Brisbane; 30 May -
- Dir. Sydney Mannering; Prod. John N. McCallum.
- Troupe: Courtiers Costume Comedy Company.
- Cast incl. Linda Dale, Harry Borrodale, Joe Brennan, Colin Crane, Sydney Mannering, Nesta Barry, Madge Griffiths,
Leslie Holmes, Lalla Knight, Miss Ira Love, Connie Milne, George Pownall, Violet Sylvester, Ford Waltham
(Policeman).
"Courtiers, The." Brisbane Courier 31 May (1918), 4. [see also advert. 30 May 1918, 2]
CARMELITA: [musical comedy] Txt. Victor Prince; Mus. Fred Whaite

Set in Mexico, the storyline revolves around the lovely senorita, Carmelita, and the two men vying for love – a resplendent
president and a bold guerrilla leader. Much of the fun also revolves around the comic characters Dr Dingle (a travelling quack)
and Jazzbo (his factotum). The first act is set in the courtyard of the Inn Perfecto, with the second act played out in the Grand
Ballroom of the Presente's palace.
The Age music and theatre critic praised Fred Whaite's score in his review of the opening night performance, writing:
Musically, Carmelita is much superior to many of the imported works given so lavishly.
The fact that he had a poor kind of libretto to work on has not prevented Mr Fred Whaite
from providing a full measure of agreeable light music. His score is unpretentious, but
always melodious. He has written with simplicity as a keynote, and has sought no striking
contrapuntal effects in the concerted passages. In spite of this, the finale to the first act is
handles in so skilful a manner that given a performance attunes in merit to the music, it
would be dramatically effective. Mr Whaite writes gracefully in waltz time, always
providing simple and appealing melodies, and even if he does not attain any remarkable
originality he gives character to some of his work appropriate to the Mexican theme of the
story… lry of. Whatever success Carmelita achieves will be mainly due to the music. Mr
Prince has himself contributed the book. The plot runs evenly enough, but there are many
interrupting periods of strained humour, and the attempted high-flown speeches of the
bandit lover are so much burlesque ("Palace Theatre," 7).
1918: Palace Theatre, Melbourne; 1-21 June.

- Dir. Victor Prince; Prod. Fullers' Theatres; Mus Dir/Cond. Fred
Whaite; Sc Art. Rege Robbins; Chor. Anita Cobb; Orch Ldr.
Stanlislaus Tzarsynaki.
- Cast incl. George Whitehead (Pedro de Garcia, the Bandit Chief),
Maud Miles (Carmelita), Clifford O'Keefe (Louis Mendoza, El
president Esperata), Victor Prince (Dr Dingle),Con Moreni
(Jazzbo), George Scully (Sancho Perfecte, an innkeeper), Jean
Vernon (Ramondo, a bandit), Dorothy Hastings (Donna Mendoza,
the Presidente's sister), Pearl Livingstone (Bonita, a flower girl and
rival of Carmelita), Anita Cobb (Lolita, a Spanish Maja), Daisy
Taylor (Chaquita, Perfecte's daughter).
Graphic of Australia 31 May (1818), 25 - Other characters incl. Spanish beauties, flower girls, bandits and
monks.
"Palace: Carmelita." Argus 3 June (1918), 9.
"Palace Theatre – Carmelita, The." Age 3 June (1918), 7.
THE BACK TO NATURE CLUB: [revusical] Txt. Al Bruce; Mus. [n/e]
A revue that satirises "the habits of extreme 'simple life' faddists, the story revolves around the character, Hank, an
"impecunious tramp in search of work" ("Empire Theatre," n. pag.).
American producer/writer Al Bruce came to Australasia for the Fullers in 1918, bringing with him a number of revusicals. He
is believed to have adapted these productions for Australian audiences right from the start. The inclusion of Australian references
can be seen in some characters (e.g. Hank Dinkumflater in Elixir of Love) and situations (the photographic representative for the
Sydney Truth in The King of Patagonia).
1918: National Theatre, Sydney; 1-7 June
- Cast incl. Al Bruce (Hank), Mabelle Morgan (Dr Virginia Richmond), Walter Cornock, Ysabelle Groves, Robert
Raymond, Samuel Clark, Nellie Fallon, Sam Wallace, Muriel Dale.
1920: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 3-9 Jan.
- Troupe: Al Bruce and his Rosebuds.
- Cast incl. Al Bruce (Hank), Mabelle Morgan (Dr Virginnia Richmond), R. Raymond (Dewy Dunn), D'Arcy Kelway
(Ratz), Les Shipp.
- Other productions staged during the 1919/20 season included: Hello Papa, The King of Patagonia and Lulu.
NB: Ysabelle Groves also known as Isabel Groves
"Empire Theatre." Brisbane Courier 5 Jan. (1920), 4.

X-Ray. "Month in Vaudeville." Theatre Magazine June (1918), 29.
HOME SWEET HOME: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

"The revue is rather weak in every way," writes Australian Variety's Harry Kitching. There "does not appear to be the
material there to work on, although applause greeted some of the lines and situations" (n. pag.).
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 1-7 June
- Cast incl. Elsie Brown, Vera Benson, Grace Quine, Vera Benson, Amy Rochelle, Will Dyson, Madge Loyola, Elsie
Brown, Les Shipp, Jim Gaffney.
- Musicians incl. Eileen Huggard (piano) replacing the injured James Stewart.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and south-west New South Wales circuits;
ca. May/June
- Sydney circuit incl. Princess Theatre; 22-28 June
- South-West NSW circuit incl. Goulburn (Majestic Theatre; 7 June)
Australian Variety 28 June (1918), 3.
South Coast Times and Wollongong
Argus 7 June (1918), 10.
I'M IN A FIX: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]
Possibly written by George Pagden, with the assistance of other members in the troupe.
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 8-14 June.
- Cast incl. Lillian Graham, Kathleen Desbro, Pearl Reeves, Marshall Crosby, George Pagden.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. June
A GAY DESERTER: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

Possibly written by George Pagden, with the assistance of other members of the troupe.
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 15-21 June.
- Cast incl. George Pagden, George Livingstone, Marshall Crosby, Kitty Stanley.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. June/July
"Bridge Theatre." Australian Variety 7 June (1918), n. pag.
JOCKEYS: [revusical] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]

# FHC, n. yr. [manuscript extract - Nat Phillips Collection, UQFL9, Box 1]
Nat Phillips (Stiffy) and Roy Rene (Mo) are a couple of stable lads at a racecourse in this "sporty musical comedy revue."
The other character include: Dennis (an old trainer), Marion (his daughter), Paul Mannering (the owner), Jonsey (a punter), Olga
Verough (in love with Paul), Lord Verbrought (her accomplice), Lizzie (the servant), and Graham, Harry, Bentham and Ken
(possibly punters). The 1921 Brisbane Courier review notes that the "play was a burlesque on the sport of horse racing… replete
with crooks, disqualified jockeys and adventuresses. As the stable boys Messrs. Roy Rene and Nat Phillips gave a clever and
laughable portrayal of the characteristics commonly attributed to 'horsey' men. Miss Daisy Merritt as Polly, the 'Queen of Ascot,'
was the object of the amorous advances of Mo, and the latter's proposal made a great hit with some of the audience, but other
persons might have thought it approached the indelicate. The comedy was full of pretty frocked ballets, dances and songs"
(Empire," 9).
The Brisbane Courier's review of Nat Phillips' 1926 Whirlgig version records: "The second half of the programme was taken
up with an amusing sporting revue, The Jockeys, depicting dark doings at the racecourse. As usual Stiffy and 'Erb (in the role of
stable boys) claimed a large share of attention, and their handling of their mounts, a collie dog and a goat was a scream. Smart and
snappy musical numbers by members of the company, with the able co-operation of the Whirlgig Ballet, were interspersed
throughout the programme" ("Empire Theatre," 17).
The "musical sprints" presented during the 1922 production were: "Derby Day" (punters, owners and trainers), "Mississippi"
(Connelly and girls), "Miss O'Shea" (Shaw, Rene and Phillips), "Miami Dreams" (Connors and Paul), "Ahead of the Times"
(O'Brien and girls), "All by Myself" (Paul), "Strut, Miss Lizzie" (Connors and girls), "Timbuctoo" (Connelly), "Jabowocky"
(Davis and girls) and the finale "The Race for the Cup" (the jockeys). Queenie Paul's song, "All By Myself," was included in the
production by request.
1918: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 15-21 June
1919: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 5-11 July [return season: 27 Sept. - 2 Oct.]
1920: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 27 Mar. - 2 Apr. [return season: – 21 Aug.; end of season]
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Amy Rochelle, Daisy Merritt, Caddy Franks, Horace Mann, Dan Dunbar, Will
Liddle, Lou Harris.
- NB: The company undertook a brief regional tour between seasons, with the return season beginning 10 July. The Age also notes
that "the supporting company has been very much improved" (12 July 1920, 8). Mike Connors and Queenie Paul joined the troupe at
this time. See also At the Club (1920) which had its Australian premiere during return season.
1921: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 2-8 July
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Daisy Merritt, Dan M. Dunbar, Lola Hunt, Belle Pollard, Gerald Cashman, Walter
Jackson [aka Walter Whyte], Dot O'Dea.
1922: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 22-28 July
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; M Dir.
Charles Ryder; Chor. Rosie Bowie; B Mngr. George
C. Audley; Cost. Ethel Moar; S Mngr. Dan M.
Dunbar.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Dan M. Dunbar
(Dennis, the old trainer), Dot Davis (Marion, his
daughter), Keith Connelly (Paul Mannering, the
owner),Queenie Paul (Olga Venough, in love with
Paul), Mike Connors (Lord Verbrought, her
accomplice), Gladys Shaw (Lizzie, a servant); and the
Six Radio Girls (Rosie Bowie, Gwen Brandon,
Thelma Duff, Flo Wilson, Marie McLaughlin, Phyllis
Whisken) as punters.
Fuller News
29 Apr. (1922), 11.
1924: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 4-10 Oct.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Mike Connors, Queenie Paul, Peter Brooks, Dan M. Dunbar, Dot Davis [aka Mrs
Roy Rene], Daisy Merritt, Gladys Shaw, the Six Radio Girls.
1926: Luxor Theatre, Perth; 19-25 June
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; Lse. Walker and Doyle.
- Troupe: Nat Phillips' Whirligigs [aka Stiffy and 'Erb]
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Jack Kellaway ('Erb), Mike Connors, Queenie Paul, Daisy Merritt, Dan M. Dunbar;
Johnny More, Jenny Ray, Harry Huley, Bessie Bent, Connie Scott, Hal Graham; and the Radio Six.
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; M Dir. Frank Wilson.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Jack Kellaway, Daisy Merritt, Dan M. Dunbar, Dan Weldon, Eric Masters, Dorothy Manning,
May Laurence, Polly Power; and the Radio Six.
- Musicians: Charleston Super Six Symphonists - incl. Frank Wilson (trombone/accordion), "Tiny" Douglas (violin),
Art Dewar (banjo), Frank Morton (cornet) and Les Clements (piano).
1927: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 25 June - 1 July
- Troupe: Stiffy and Mo Revue Company.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Amy Rochelle, Harry Ross, Sadie Gale, Daisy Merritt, Statler Sisters, Alec
Kellaway, Jack Kellaway; and the Radio Girls.
- Musicians: Charleston Symphonists - Frank Wilson (trombone/accordion), "Tiny" Douglas (violin), Les Clements
(piano), Art Dewar (banjo), Frank Morton (cornet), and Bebe Lewis (sax)
NB: The surname of Alec and Jack Kellaway is often spelled Kelleway in reviews and advertising. May Laurence's surname is also
sometimes spelled Lawrence.

"Empire, The." Brisbane Courier 4 July (1921), 9.
Fuller News 22 July (1922), 12. Advert.
MEXICANS [aka TOREADORS, IN MEXICO, FUN IN MEXICO, IN SPAIN and

BULLFIGHTERS] [revusical] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]
# FHC, n. yr. [manuscript extract and character part - Nat Phillips Collection; Box 2]
Known under various titles throughout the years, this one act musical comedy revue sees Stiffy and Mo as bullfighters.
Although new songs and fresh comic business were no doubt inserted into the various productions over the years, it is believed
that the basic format of the first narrative was kept. For example, the 1922 production (presented as In Mexico) included the
characters: Bill Brady (a crook), Florita (an heiress), Anita (in love with Brady), Antonio (in love with Florita), Petre (a bad
hombre), Florrie (who also loves Brady), and various senoritas. The 1924 version has at least four similarly-named four characters
- Pedro (the toreador) , Natalie, Flora and Florita. Petre is also sometimes spelled as Pietro, and described as a muleteer.
The 1922 production included the songs: "Come to Spain" (girls), "Honeymoon Round the World" (Connelly and girls),
"Romany" (Paul), "After a Thousand Years" (Davis and girls), "Believe in You" (Connors and girls), "Parvo Real Girl" (Connelly
and girls), "Promenade" (Shaw and girls), "Kentucky Home" (Connors and Paul) and "Back to Australia" (finale).
The Theatre Magazine describes the 1924 production, titled Mexicans thus: "Stiffy and Mo, two strangers in Mexico, are
alternatively vamped by Natalie, Flora and Florita, and only just manage to evade the knife of Pedro the toreador. The plot is
neither here nor there, however, when Stiffy and Mo start gagging. A most artistic scene representing a courtyard in Mexico,
forms the background for the revue and six dainty senoritas dance on and off when the fun slows down… but the show is Stiffy
and Mo" ("Month," 44). The following year an advertisement for the Melbourrne production of In Spain records: Stiffy and Mo
"are brave bull fighters in dear old Mexico among the sweet senoritas and giddy girls full of pep and pace. A scream of joy headed
by the gloom annihilators Nat Phillips and Roy Rene" (Age 14 Mar. 1925, 22).
A week after breaking up with Roy Rene during the middle of the Majestic Theatre season in Adelaide, Phillips staged In
Mexico as the second production for his soon to be named Whirligigs company. While the first prosuction, The Plumbers, had
been presented with Stiffy as the solo lead comedy character for this one he elevated Joe Mullaney from the ensemble to play
opposite him - as Stiffy and Joe. Mullaney's is described in the Register (Adelaide) as "a new comedian of the Peter Doody type
(27 July 1925, 12). The chemistry must not have been present because the following week Phillips brought in the more experienced
Harry Huley for the following week. Huley continued the second comedian role up until at least the end of the Adelaide season.
The Nat Phillips Collection, held by the Fryer Library, University of Queensland, contains an eleven page extract from an
original manuscript, titled Fun in Mexico.
1918: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 29 June - 5 July [as Toreadors]
1919: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 12-18 July
1920: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 14-20 Aug. [as Bullfighters]
Liddle, Lou Harris.
- NB: The company undertook a brief regional tour between seasons. The first season began ca. March with the return season
beginning 10 July. The Age also notes that "the supporting company has been very much improved" (12 July 1920, 8). Mike
Connors and Queenie Paul joined the troupe at this time. See also At the Club (1920) which had its Australian premiere during return
season.
1921: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 6-12 Aug. [as Mexico]
1922: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 20-26 May [as In Mexico]
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; M Dir. Charles Ryder; Chor. Rosie Bowie; Cost. Ethel Moar;
B Mngr. George C. Audley; S Mngr. Dan M. Dunbar.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Dot Davis [aka Mrs Roy Rene] (Floritta), Mike Connors (Bill Brady, a crook),
Queenie Paul (Anita, in love with Brady), Keith Connelly (Petre, a bad hombre), Gladys Shaw (Florrie, also loves
Brady), Dan M. Dunbar (Antonio, in love with Floritta); and the Six Radio Girls (Gwen Brandon, Rosie Bowie,
Thelma Duff, Flo Wilson, Marie McLaughlin, Phyllis Whisken) as senoritas.
1924: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 8-14 Nov.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Mike Connors, Queenie Paul (Natalie), Peter Brooks, Dan M. Dunbar, Dot Davis
[aka Mrs Roy Rene] (Florita), Daisy Merritt, Gladys Shaw (Flora); and the Six Radio Girls.
1925: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 14-20 Mar. [as In Spain]
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; Chor. Rosie Bowie.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Dan M. Dunbar, Queenie Paul, Mike Connors, Dot Davis [aka Mrs Roy Rene],
Gladys Shaw, Daisy Merritt, Keith Connolly, Rene Albert, David Lyle; and the Six Radio Girls.
1925: Majestic Theatre, Adelaide; 18-24 July
- Troupe: Nat Phillips' Newly Organised Company (later known as Nat Phillips' Whirligigs).
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Joe Mullaney (as Joe), Dan M. Dunbar (Antonio), Queenie Paul (a Mexican Senorita),
Mike Connors (Bill Brady), Leonard Rich (Pedro), June Mills (Nellie Kennedy), William Innes (Pietro), Shannon
Raye (Florita); and the Six Crack-a-Jacks.
1926: Luxor Theatre, Perth; 29 May - 4 June
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; Lse. Walker and Doyle.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Mike Connors, Queenie Paul, Daisy Merritt, Dan M. Dunbar; Johnny More, Jenny Ray,
Harry Huley, Bessie Bent, Connie Scott, Hal Graham; and the Radio Six
- Jack Kellaway did not join the company until 12 June (in The Beauty Parlour).
1926: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 27 Nov. - 3 Dec. [as In Spain]
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Jack Kellaway ('Erb), Mike Connors, Queenie Paul, Daisy Merritt, Dan M. Dunbar, Dan
Weldon, Elsie Hoskins; and the Radio Six.
- NB: Mike Connors and Queenie Paul left the company at the conclusion of this production.
1927: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 28 May - 3 June [as In Spain]
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Daisy Merritt, Jack Kellaway, Alec Davidson, Sadie Gale, Amy Rochelle, Harry
Ross, Statler Sisters; and the Six Radio Girls.
1927: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 12-18 Nov. [as Mexicans]
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; M Dir. Les Clements.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Amy Rochelle, Sadie Gale, Daisy Merritt, Dan M. Dunbar, The Stattler Sisters, Will
Kenny Dan Weldon, Alec McKinnon; and the Radio Ballet.
- Musicians: Charleston Symphonists.
1928: Majestic Theatre, Adelaide; 9-15 June [as In Spain]
- Troupe: Stiffy and Mo Revue Co
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Roy Rene (Mo), Alec Kellaway ('Erb), Sadie Gale, Dan Weldon, Amy Rochelle, Daisy
Merritt, Dan Dunbar, Sylvia Gardner, Ray Fisher, Heather Bain. Bob Graham, Hilda Waring; and the Radio Six.
- Musicians: Charleston Super Six Symphonists - incl. Frank Wilson (trombone/accordion/saxophone/whistle/
concertina), Les Clements (piano), Syd Clarke (violin).
1929: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 13-19 Apr. [as In Mexico]
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; M Dir. Tiny Douglas.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Jack Kellaway ('Erb), Daisy Merritt, Al Mack, Cecil Scott, Tom Collins, Kitty Stewart,
May Webster, Sylvia Gardner, Paul Daley, Belle Pollard, Eve Fenelly, Marjorie Vause; and the Radio Six.
1930: Luxor Theatre, Perth; 5-11 July [as In Spain]
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Westralian Vaudeville Ltd; M Dir. Tiny Douglas.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Stan Foley (Stud), Daisy Merritt, Keith Connolly, Iris Ackworth, Kathleen Howard,
Stella Lamond, Harry Ross, Angela Parselles, Cecil Scott; and the Radio Six.
NB: The surname of Alec and Jack Kellaway is often spelled Kelleway in reviews and advertising.
► Fun in Mexico: Digital copy original manuscript held in the Fryer Library (University of Qld eSpace)
► See also: AustLit entry
Fuller News 20 May (1922), 2. Advert.
Keup, M. A. Just It 2 June (1927), 28-9.
"Majestic Theatre." Register (Adelaide) 27 July (1925), 12.
"Month in Vaudeville, The." Theatre Magazine Dec. (1924), 44.
THE CANDY SHOP: [aka THE CANDY SHIP] [revusical] Txt. Al Bruce; Mus. [n/e]
can be seen in the characters (e.g. Hank Dinkumflater in Elixir of Love) and situations (the photographic representative for the
1918: National Theatre, Sydney; 29 June - 5 July
- Cast incl. Al Bruce (Hank), Mabelle Morgan (Dr Virginia Richmond), Walter Cornock, Ysabelle Groves, Robert
Raymond, Samuel Clark, Nellie Fallon, Sam Wallace, Muriel Dale.
1920: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 7-13 Feb.
- Cast incl. Al Bruce, Mabelle Morgan, R. Raymond, D'Arcy Kelway, Les Shipp.
NB: Ysabelle Groves also known as Isabel Groves.
FORTUNE HUNTING: [musical comedy] Txt/ Mus. [n/e]

Staged as part of a concert put on by the No1 Squadron, Fortune Hunting is set
ten years after the war. The 1918 production was illustrated with aeroplanes, gumnuts
and a photograph insert of the performers.
1918: No 1 Squadron base, Ramla (Palestine); 29 June
- M Dir. G. Hampton; S Mngr. C. Dawes
- Troupe: Amateur Frolics Co.
- Cast: Lieut. Smith (Georgina Graves), R.J. Howie (Major Blunt), Cpl
Luxton (Alfred Evylyn), W. Taylor (Tired Tim), J. Gilberg (Frederick
Fenn), J. Dagwell (Jimmy Pastor), G. Faulkner (Clara Douglas), C. Dawes
(Shylock Bones), R. McGibbon (Tommy), W. Shiers (Waiter), N.
Clutterbuck (waiter), H. Lander (Father Toolfoo).
- Musicians: A.F.C. Orchestra.
"Concert and Theatre Programs Collection - First World War 1914-1918, Series 4,
Sub-series 1, File 8, Item 1: Amatuer Frolic Company." Australian War Memorial.
Source: Australian War Memorial.
CARRY ON CARRIE: [comic opera/music comedy] Lib. Victor Prince; Mus. Fred Whaite
Melbourne's Leader newspaper claims in its 29 June issue that Cary on Carrie had won favour in London and the provinces.
The following week, however, it recorded that the music was by Fred Whaite (who had also collaborated with Victor Prince on
another comic opera, Carmelita (see above). In the latter review the writer notes that the music was catchy and the libretto has
"true humour of the stage" (33). Little is currently known about the storyline.
Although billed as a comic opera, the production likely fell within the boundaries of musical comedy, especially as most of
the principal performers were from the vaudeville stage and not especially trained as comic opera performers.
1918: Palace Theatre, Melbourne; 29 June - 4 July
- Dir. Victor Prince; Prod. Ben and John Fuller (Fullers' Theatres); M Dir/Cond. Fred Whaite; S Art Rege Robbins.
- Cast incl. Dorothy Hastings, Jack Mettam, Clifford O'Keefe (Count Paravanchi), Victor Prince (Jimmy Pannikin), Con
Moreni (Tony Praspecto), Fred Champion.
"Dramatic Notes." Leader (Melbourne) 6 July (1918), 33.

THE KING OF DETECTIVES: [revusical] Txt. Billy Watson; Mus. [n/e]
Most likely written by Billy Watson, with additional input from Joe Rox and other comedians in the troupe.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney circuit; ca. June.
- Dir. Joe Rox; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Art. Alec Stagpoole.
- Cast incl. Joe Rox, Billy Watson, Amy Rochelle, Ida Merton, Hughie Ogilvie, Nat Hanley, Ivy Aldous.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. June
- Sydney circuit incl. Princess Theatre (15-21 June)
THE TOURISTS IN JAPAN: [revusical] Txt. Edwin Waller; Mus. [n/e]

1918: Harry Clay's Sydney and and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. June/July
- Dir. Maurice Chenoweth; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre; S Art. Alec Stagpoole; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel (NBT).
- Cast incl. Ted Stanley, Lulu Eugene, Ern Crawford, James Caldwell, Lorraine Russell, Eileen and Bessie Phillips.
IN THE HOSPITAL: [revusical] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]

Stiffy and Mo feel very crook, but they manage to keep the pretty nurses amused. The pair also encounter the Matron, the
Head Nurse, the Doctor, and some very strange strangers. It is not clear whether this revusical is the same as a similarly-located
production, Oh Doctor. The 1918 Brisbane season, for example, saw the company stage Oh Doctor in mid-February and In the
Hospital in early July. Advertising for the earlier production does include a reference to the plot being set "in the hospital"
(Brisbane Courier 16 Feb. 1918, 2). The Brisbane Courier's review of the 1927 Whirlgig production records: "Nat Phillips (Stiffy)
and Jack Kellaway ('Erb) were a pair of unhappy patients, Stiffy contemplating his early demise in melancholy tones but the
audience failed to realise the solemnity of the occasions, particularly when the Professor (Dan M. Dunbar) discussed with
gruesome detail the fitness of Stiffy as a subject for the operating table" ("Fun at the Empire," 16).
The 1922 production's "musical operations" were: "Gay Nurses" (chorus), "Ma" (Connelly and Davis), "O'Reilly" (Connors
and girls), "Wondering" (Paul and girls), "Sure, Sure Sign" (Shaw and girls), "Bright Eyes" (Connors and Paul), "Cairo" (Davis
and girls), "Yiddisher Love" (Rene), "The Older They Get" (Connelly), "Preacher Makes You Mine" (Connors, Paul and
company), "Gladness" (Shaw) and the finale "Married" (company). The 1927 Stiffy and Erb version included the songs: "We are
Pretty Nurses so Gay" (performed by Dorothy Manning and nurses), "Sunnybrook Farm" (concerted number).
Advertising also sometimes sees the revusical billed simply as In Hospital.
1920: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 8-14 May
Liddle, Lou Harris.
1921: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 10-16 Sept.
1922: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 17-23 June
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Gladys Shaw (The Matron), Dan M. Dunbar (The Doctor), Dot Davis [aka Mrs Roy
Rene] (The Head Nurse), Queenie Paul (A Crazy Patient), Mike Connors (Swinging the Lead), Keith Connelly (The
Sore Finger), Doc O'Brien (Willie), Daisy Merritt; and the Six Radio Girls (Rosie Bowie, Gwen Brandon, Thelma
Duff, Flo Wilson, Marie McLaughlin, Phyllis Whisken) as nurses.
1927: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 15-21 Jan.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Jack Kellaway (Erb), Daisy Merritt, Dan M. Dunbar (Professor), Dan Weldon, Dorothy
Manning (Matron), May Laurence, Polly Power; and the Radio Six.
- In the Hospital was presented as a first part revusical, along with several sketches and another revusical, The Bailiffs
during the week.
NB: The surname of Alec and Jack Kellaway is often spelled Kelleway in reviews and advertising. May Laurence's surname is also
sometimes spelled Lawrence (and her Christina name referred to as Mary).
Fuller News 17 June (1922), 10. Advert.
"Fun at the Empire." Brisbane Courier 17 Jan. (1927), 16.
THE NEW M.P. [revusical] Txt. Al Bruce; Mus. [n/e]

can be seen in some characters (e.g. Hank Dinkumflater in Elixir of Love) and situations (the photographic representative for the
Sydney Truth in The King of Patagonia). The New M.P. is described as a "one act musical farce comedy" in advertising.
1918: National Theatre, Sydney; 6-12 July
- Cast incl. Al Bruce, Mabelle Morgan, Walter Cornock, Isabel Grooves, Robert Raymond, Samuel Clark, Nellie Fallon,
Sam Wallace, Muriel Dale.
1919: National Theatre, Sydney; 6-12 July
- Cast incl. Al Bruce, Mabelle Morgan, D'Arcy Kelway, Milton Owen, Letty Craydon, Florence Fanning, Winnie
Trevail.
1920: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 31 Jan. - 6 Feb.
- Cast incl. Al Bruce, Mabelle Morgan, R. Raymond, D'Arcy Kelway, Les Shipp.
THE BLACK HAND SOCIETY: [revusical] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]
An advertisement in the Brisbane Courier indicates that this revusical was being produced for
the first time on any stage.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Roy Rene (Mo), Daisy Merritt, Caddy Franks, Horace
Mann, Dan M. Dunbar, Peter Brooks, Belle Pollard, Walter Jackson, Vince Courtney,
Cliff O'Keefe.
Roy Rene and Nat Phillips

Nat Phillips Collection, Fryer Library, The University of Qld
LULU: [revusical] Txt. Al Bruce; Mus. [n/e]

The storyline in Lulu concerns Timothy O'Brien who has a weakness for the fair sex and this gets him into frequent trouble
with his jealous wife. A Queenslander review of the 1919/1920 Empire Theatre season provides further insights: "[Lulu] opens
with a scene reminiscient of an irish wake, all the characters being gathered to olisten to the reading of the will of the late Bishop
Smith. This eccentric gentleman has left all his fortune to a country cousin on the condition that he does not fall in love, propose
or get married by a certain date. If he does these things the money goes to the Irishman and the Jew. These worthy gentlemen
accordingly use their utmost endeavours to persuiade the country cousin to give way to his amorous instincts, but he is adamant,
and their nefarious designs are frustrated, not without providing a good deal of comedy in the process" ("Stage," 15).
The Brisbane Courier records that Letty Craydon figured conspicuously and with decided success in the opening chorus
"The Musical Comedy Maid" and in the "Ballet Gladiator" ("Empire," 7).
can be seen in some characters (i.e. Hank Dinkumflater in Elixir of Love) and situations (the photographic representative for the
1919: Fullers' New Theatre, Sydney; ca. Nov.
- Troupe: Al Bruce Revue Company
- Cast incl. Al Bruce (Timothy O'Brien), Mabelle Morgan (Lulu), Celia Mavis, Robert Raymond, D'Arcy Kelway, Les
Shipp, Rita Aslin.
1919: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 27 Dec. 1919 - 2 Jan. 1920
- Dir. Al Bruce; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; Chor. Ysabelle Groves.
- Troupe: Al Bruce Revue Company.
- Cast incl. Al Bruce (Timothy O'Brien), Mabelle Morgan (Lulu), D'Arcy Kelway (Fitzhock Cohen), Robert Raymond
(Count Boulevard), Milton Owen (Thomas Smith), Ysabelle Groves, Les Shipp, Letty Craydon, Rita Aslin, and the
Rosebuds (chorus).
- Other productions staged during the 1919/20 season included: Hello Papa and The King of Patagonia.
"Music and Drama." Daily Mail (Brisbane) 27 Dec. (1919), 9.
"Stage, The." Queenslander 3 Jan. (1920), 15.
LORDS: [aka ON THE BEACH] [revusical] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]
Described by the Theatre Magazine critic in 1922 as "mere padding," with much of "their work [being] a repetition of the
antics indulged in by them during the recent run of Dick Whittington" (May 1922, 19), the Brisbane Courier notes in its review of
the 1921 season that Stiffy and Mo "appeared in the role of a Yiddish 'deadbeat and his deadbest friend… Equipped with an
extremely clever and funny make-up, they gave a delightful impersonation of the affectations popularly attributed to members of
the English nobility, while their sudden and unexpected relapse into their own identity caused many a hearty laugh" (20 June 1921,
4).
For the 1925 Bijou Theatre production Phillips' included such songs as "Old Irish Mother" and "Lazy Daisies." The 1927
Stiffy and Mo version of The Lords incorporated into the general story line the sketches "The Eternal Triangle," and another,
described as the telephone scene" (Keup, 18 Aug. 1927, 28). Songs incorporated into that production included "All's Well that Ends
Well, and "Here I Am" (sung by Amy Rochelle).
A review in the Brisbane Courier for the 1926 Whirlgig company version notes: "In the amusing revuette, The Lords, Stiffy
and 'Erb masquerade as two members of the House of Lords and their adventures on the seashore with a bevy of charming
maidens provided a wide field of humour" ("Empire," 15). The other characters included: Willie (played by Dan Weldon) the little
son of the irascible Major Porter (Dan Dunbar), and a ne'er do well (Eric Masters).
1918: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 3-9 Aug.
- The entertainment during this week also included some scenes from another Stiffy and Mo revusical, In the Surf –
staged in Brisbane in 1918 as Mixed Bathing.
1920: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 19-25 June
Liddle, Lou Harris.
1922: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; ca.Apr.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Ida Merton, Dot Davis [aka Mrs Roy Rene], Queenie Paul, Mike Connors, Keith
Connelly, Gladys Shaw, Dan M. Dunbar, W. O'Brien; and the Six Radio Girls (Gwen Brandon, Rosie Bowie, Thelma
Duff, Flo Wilson, Marie McLaughlin, Phyllis Whisken).
1924: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 13-19 Sept.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Dan M. Dunbar, Dot Davis [aka Mrs Roy Rene], Daisy Merritt, Queenie Paul,
Mike Connors, Gladys Shaw; and the Six Radio Girls.
1925: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 21-27 Feb.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Dan M. Dunbar, Queenie Paul, Mike Connors, Dot Davis [aka Mrs Roy Rene],
Daisy Merritt, Gladys Shaw, Keith Connolly, Rene Albert, David Lyle; and the Radio Six.
1925: Majestic Theatre, Adelaide; 4-10 July
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Roy Rene (Mo), Dan M. Dunbar, Dot Davis, Queenie Paul (Olinda Porter), Mike
Connors, June Mills, William Innes; and the Radio Six.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Jack Kellaway ('Erb), Daisy Merritt, Dan M. Dunbar (Major Porter), Dan Weldon (Willie), Eric
Masters (the ne'er do well), Dorothy Manning, Polly Power, Eddie and Decima McLean; and the Radio Six.
- NB: Mike Connors and Queenie Paul left the company prior to this production being staged.
1927: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 13-26 Aug.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Amy Rochelle, Harry Ross (Lord Brancaster), Sadie Gale, Daisy Merritt, Statler
Sisters, Alec Kellaway (Little Willie), Jack Kellaway (Major Porter), Will Kenny (Lord Snazzle).
- Alec Kellaway left the troupe sometime during the two week run of The Lords. He was replaced by Dan M. Dunbar,
previously with the troupe for several years, but who had been forced into temporary retirement due to long illness.
1927: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 29 Oct. - 4 Nov.
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; M Dir. Les Clements.
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Amy Rochelle, Sadie Gale, Daisy Merritt, Dan M. Dunbar, The Stattler Sisters, Will
Kenny Dan Weldon, Alec McKinnon; and the Radio Ballet.
- Musicians: Charleston Symphonists.
- This was the opening production of the Stiffy and Mo's 1927 Bijou Theatre season.
NB: The surname of Alec and Jack Kellaway is often spelled Kelleway in reviews and advertising.
"Empire, The." Brisbane Courier 20 June (1921), 4.

"Fun at the Empire." Brisbane Courier 6 Dec. (1926), 15.
Keup, M. A. "Vaudeville." Just It 18 Aug. (1927), 28.
--- "Vaudeville." Just It 25 Aug. (1927), 28.
DOLLY'S DILEMMA: [musical comedy] Txt/ Mus. [n/e]

A musical farce set in a London flat during the war, the storyline revolves around Dolly Dimples and her many suitors.
1918: B Hangar, No 1 Squadron base, Ramla (Palestine); 29 June
- M Dir. G. Hampton; S Mngr. C. Dawes
- Troupe: Amateur Frolics Co.
- Cast: G. Faulkner (Mdlle Dolly Dimples), R.J. Howie (Captain Cut-a-Dash), W. Taylor (Jack Phillips, suitor), J.
Gilberg (Ton--de-Oyne, suitor), J. Dagwell (Horace Mills, suitor), C. Dawes (Gaston La Frogg, suitor), R. McGibbon
(Hortense), H. Lander (Billy Perkins).
- Musicians: A.F.C. Orchestra.
- "Concert and Theatre Programs Collection - First World War 1914-1918, Series 4, Sub-series 1, File 8, Item 2." Australian War
Memorial.
AN UP COUNTRY COURT HOUSE: [burlesque] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

Possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in collaboration with other members of his troupe, An Up Country Court House, was
described in advertising as a burlesque. However, it is likely to have been staged by The Serenaders more in the style of the
musical sketch or revusical. The company began its 1918 season in Brisbane on 10 August having arrived there from a season at
the Follies Theatre, St Kilda (Melbourne). The advertisement also notes that Huxham's company had played the same theatre for
"the past four consecutive summer seasons with conspicuous success." Following the Melbourne season the company played the
Theatre Royal, Hobart, were they claim to have broken all records for bookings and attendance (Brisbane Courier 27 July 1918, 2).
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 16-22 Aug.
- Dir. Hugh Huxham; Prod. John N. McCallum (Dandies Qld Ltd).
- Troupe: Huxham's Serenaders.
- Cast incl. Hugh Huxham, Edith Huxham, Sydney Hollister, Reg Harrison, Fred Heruad, Miss Pop Batterbury, Dan
Weldon, Olive Sneddon, Kitty Morton, Pearlie McKenzie.
THE SOFT DRINK SHOP [aka THE STOREKEEPER]: [musical sketch] Txt/Mus. [n/e]
Possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in collaboration with other members of his troupe, The Soft Drink Shop was one of
numerous musical sketches (also referred to as musical scenas) staged by Huxham's Serenaders during 1918.
One of the songs presented as part of the 1918 Brisbane return season was "Echo" (sung by Olive Sneddon). A war
monologue "The Fool" performed by Miss Pop Batterbury was also inserted into the narrative.
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 16-22 Aug. [return season: as The Storekeeper, 22-28 Nov.]
- The 22 November revival was staged along with the operatic scena Life in a Gypsy Camp.
"Serenaders, The." Brisbane Courier 23 Nov. (1918), 7.
CIRCUS DAY IN DIXIE: [burlesque] Txt/Mus. [n/e]
Although described in advertising as a burlesque, this production (as with the majority of the Serenaders' repertoire around
this period) was likely to have been in the revusical style. It was also possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in collaboration with
other members of his troupe.
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 23-29 Aug.
A POT POURRI [aka GO AS YOU PLEASE]: [musical revue] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]
A Pot Pourri falls more into the genre territory of musical revue than revusical in that it contained no narrative structure. In
this respect each production (invariably presented as the final offering in a Stiffy and Mo Revue Company season) comprised
popular selections from the troupe's repertoire.
The 1918 Brisbane Pot Pourri season may not have been the first Stiffy and Mo compilation show.
1918: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 24-30 Aug.
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fuller's Theatres Ltd.
1921: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 9-15 Oct.
- Troupe: Stiffy and Mo Company.
1927: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 5-11 Mar. [as Go As You Please]
- Troupe: Nat Phillips' Whirligigs
- Cast incl. Nat Phillips, Roy Rene, Jack Kellaway, Daisy Merritt, Dan M. Dunbar, Dan Weldon Dorothy Manning,
Polly Power, Hal Cooper; the Radio Six.
NB: Jack Kellaway's surname is often spelled Kelleway in reviews and advertising.
WE HAVE GOT SOME PRESENTS: [musical sketch] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

Possibly written by Hugh Huxham in collaboration with other members of his troupe, We Have Got Some Presents was
one of numerous musical sketches (or musical scenas) staged by the Serenaders during 1918.
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 30 Aug. - 5 Sept.
KIDSTAKES JUNCTION: [musical scena] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

Possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in collaboration with other members of his troupe, Kidstakes Junction was one of
numerous musical sketches (also referred to as musical scenas) staged by The Serenaders during 1918. Advertising for the 1919
season indicates that it was a railway scena.
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 6-12 Sept.
- Cast incl. Hugh Huxham, Edith Huxham, Sydney Hollister, Reg Harrison, Fred
Heruad, Miss Pop Batterbury, Dan Weldon, Olive Sneddon, Kitty Morton, Pearlie
McKenzie.
- Dir. Hugh Huxham; Prod. Fullers Theatres Ltd.
- Cast and productions as for previous Cremorne Theatre season.
- Huxham's Serenaders ended their Cremorne engagement on 9 June and transferred
across to the Fullers Empire Theatre in late June. Huxham had been with McCallum
continuously since August 1918.
Hugh Huxham
Theatre Magazine Oct. (1915), 45.
AT THE FARMERS' BALL: [musical sketch] Txt/Mus. [n/e]
Possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in collaboration with other members of his troupe, At the Farmer's Ball was one of
numerous musical sketches (also referred to as musical scenas) staged by The Serenaders during 1918.
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 13-19 Sept.
1919: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 7-13 Feb.
- Dir. Hugh Huxham; Prod. John N. McCallum; M Dir. Les Richmond.
- Cast and production as for previous Cremorne Theatre season.
STRANDED AT WOOP WOOP: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

This revusical is said to have contained "a remarkably fine comedy study of a sorrowing sinner - Rev. Mr Wowse" (Theatre
Magazine Oct. 1918, 36).
1918: Princess Theatre, Sydney; 14-20 Sept.
- Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd.
- Cast incl. Andrew Kirk.
IN FAIR JAPAN: [musical scena] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

One of several "Oriental" or "Eastern" scenas staged in Brisbane during the year, the setting for this production depicted a
Japanese tea garden. Possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in collaboration with other members of his troupe.
The Australian public's interest in these short musical sketches is evidenced by the fact that a large number were staged
around the country between 1915 and at least the end of the war. In Brisbane during 1917, for example, John N. McCallum's
Dandies company staged In China Town at the Cremorne Theatre (ca.14 Apr.); while McCallum's Courtiers also presented a
similar version of the same "fascinating Chinese Scene" at the Cremorne in early September of the same year. A month later In
Yokohama was staged by the Smart Set Entertainers (12 Oct.). Productions of this type presented in Brisbane during 1918 include:
In Sunny Japan (Smart Set; 11-17 Jan); several unnamed productions in February (1-7) and March (8-14); Asia Minor (11-17
Oct.) and My Little Chinee Girl in China (28 Nov. - 5 Dec.).
NB: It is not clear whether there is a relationship between In Fair Japan and any of the scenas referred to above or with several other
Oriental productions known to have been staged by Australian companies around this period, notably the 1915 version of In Sunny Japan
(Edward Branscombe's Dandies; 1915) and two revusicals by Elton Black - Oh Yokohama and In Tokyo (both first staged in 1916). Delyse Ryan
(2000) has suggested that with set pieces available from previous productions, it is likely that a deliberating factor in staging similar scenas at
Brisbane's Cremorne Theatre, for example, was the reduction in costs through the re-use of these materials. Whether the narratives were the
same is uncertain. It is also possible that some scenic art materials could have been sold at a later date to other organisations, theatrical or
otherwise. The Glideway Skating Rink (Melbourne Street), for example, presented a 'tremendous scenic production' titled In Sunny Japan for its
patrons in early August 1916. Ctd. Brisbane Courier 5 Aug. 1916, 2.
1918: Cremorne Gardens, Brisbane; 20-26 Sept.
"Serenaders, The." Brisbane Courier 21 Sept. (1918), 14.
A DAY AT SEA ON THE S. S. PITCH AND TOSS: [musical sketch] Txt/Mus. [n/e]
Possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in collaboration with other members of his troupe, A Day at Sea on the S.S. Pitch and
Toss was one of numerous musical sketches (also referred to as musical scenas) staged by the Serenaders during their 1918 and
1919 Brisbane engagement.
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 27 Sept. - 3 Oct.
1919: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 28 Feb. - 6 Mar.
- Cast and production as for previous Cremorne season.
A WAITER'S DILEMMA: [revusical] Txt. Maurice Chenoweth; Mus. [n/e]

Most likely devised by the show's producer, Maurice Chenoweth, along with other members of the troupe.
1918: Bridge Theatre, Newtown (Sydney); 28 Sept. - 4 Oct.
- Dir. Maurice Chenoweth; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Art. Alec Stagpoole; S Mngr. Ted Gabriel.
- Cast incl. Ted Stanley, Phillips Sisters, Les Coney, Alf Edwards, Lulu Eugene, James Caldwell, Ern Crawford.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and and south-west New South Wales circuits; ca. Oct.
AN EXCITING HONEYMOON: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/]

The action of this one act musical comedy centres on the grey-haired but amorous General Debrett who is on his honeymoon.
Complications and much humour arise when he meets one his former loves and subsequently finds himself trying to evade a
demand for breach of promise while keeping it all from his bride.
1918: Athenaeum Hall, Melbourne; 5-18 Oct.
- Troupe: The New Musical Comedy Co.
- Cast incl. H. N. Gregory (General Debrett), Alfred Harford (a waiter, late of the navy), Fannie Fowler, Dora Levy,
Vera Benson, Maurice Nodin.
"New Musical Comedy Co." Age 7 Oct. (1918), 9.
SOCK THE KAISER: [revusical] Txt. Art Slavin; Mus. [n/e]

Art Slavin and company re-opened the Eden Gardens for Harry Clay (after refurbishment) with this
revue. Harry Kitching reports that it "made a decided hit and the writer (Art Slavin) is to be congratulated on
his effort: it has many funny situations, while some excellent musical numbers are introduced which make
the show one of the most entertaining the management have on their circuit" (n. pag.).
1918: Eden Gardens, Manly (Sydney); 5-11 Oct.
- Dir. Art Slavin; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; Mngr. Jimmy Boyle.
- It is believed this production would have premiered at the Bridge Theatre at least a week earlier.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and South-West New South Wales circuits; ca. Oct.
- Suburban circuit incl. Princess Theatre (12-18 Oct.).
Kitching, Harry. Australian Variety 11 Oct. (1918), n. pag.
Art Slavin
Gadfly (Adelaide) 24 Apr. (1907), 10.
STOP THIEF: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

Although described in advertising as a "Keystone burlesque," this production Stop Thief was likely to have been staged as a
revusical. The production is said to have included a chase scene in typical Keystone Cops style. John N. McCallum had previously
produced a "Keystone burlesque," Keystone Policemen, earlier in the year under the auspices of his Courtier's company (25-31
Jan.). It is not clear whether any relationship exists between the two pieces.
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 11-17 Oct.
- Dir. Hugh Huxham; Prod. John N. McCallum.
- The entertainment also included the Eastern musical scena Asia Minor.
ASIA MINOR: [musical scena] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

The Australian public's interest in oriental musical sketches is evidenced by the fact that a large number were staged around
the country between 1915 and the end of the war. In 1917 John N. McCallum staged In China Town at the Cremorne Theatre (14
Apr.); and an unnamed "fascinating Chinese Scene" (Courtiers Co, ca. Sept), while the Smart Set Entertainers presented In
Yokohama (12 Oct.). 1918 included In Sunny Japan (Smart Set; 11-17 Jan); two unnamed productions in February (1-7) and
March (8-14); In Fair Japan (Serenaders; 20-26 Sept.); and My Little Chinee Girl in China (Serenaders; 28 Nov. - 5 Dec.).
Possibly written by Hugh Huxham in collaboration with other members of his troupe, the scena included the songs "If You
Were the Only Girl (sung by Edith Huxham), "Asia Minor" (Hugh Huxham) and an Eastern dance performed by Kitty Morton.
NB: It is not clear whether there is a relationship between Asia Minor and any of the scenas referred to above or with several other Oriental
productions staged in Australia around this period. Delyse Ryan (2000) suggests that the availability of set pieces from previous productions
would have been a deliberating factor in staging similar scenas at Brisbane's Cremorne Theatre, for example. It is also possible that some scenic
art materials could have been sold at a later date to other organisations, theatrical or otherwise. Whether the narratives were the same is
uncertain. The Glideway Skating Rink (Melbourne Street), for example, presented a 'tremendous scenic production' titled In Sunny Japan for its
patrons in early August 1916. Ctd. Brisbane Courier 5 Aug. 1916, 2.
- Dir. Hugh Huxham; Prod. John N. McCallum (Dandies Qld Ltd) .
- The entertainment also included the burlesque revusical Stop Thief.
HOW MABEL'S LIFE WAS SAVED: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]
Although described in advertising as a "burlesque," this production was likely to have been staged as a revusical. Possibly
written by Hugh Huxham in collaboration with other members of his troupe.
1919: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 21-27 Feb.
HE NEVER THERE TOUCHED ME: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

1918: Coliseum Theatre, North Sydney; 19-25 Oct.
- Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Mngr. Will Sadler.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and South-West NSW circuit; ca. Oct/Nov.
Kitching, Harry. Australian Variety 25 Oct. (1918), n. pag.
BRISKET BOXED: [revusical] Txt. Art Slavin; Mus. [n/e]

1918: Coliseum Theatre, North Sydney; 19-25 Oct.
- Dir. Art Slavin; Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd; S Art. Alec Stagpoole.
- Cast incl. George Crotty, Wal Rockley (Sam Snow), Amy Rochelle, Maisie Posner, Nat Hanley, Art Slavin, Lily
Thompson, William Liddle, Ida Jarvis, George Sorlie.
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney suburban and South-West New South Wales circuits; ca. Oct/Nov.
- Suburban circuit incl. Princess Theatre (9-15 Nov.)
THE RAINBOW GIRLS: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

It is not clear whether there is any relationship between this revusical and a similarly titled production, The Rainbow Girl,
staged on Harry Clay's circuit in 1917.
1918: Grand Opera House, Sydney; ca. Oct.
- Dir. Walter Johnston; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd.
- Troupe: Walter Johnston Revue Company.
- Cast incl. Vera Spraull, Harry Burgess, Lola Hunt, Ernest Lashbrooke, Florrie Wilson, Lydia Carne, Muriel Phillips.
X-Ray. "Month in vaudeville." Theatre Magazine Nov. (1918), 23-24.
IN LANTERN LAND: [musical sketch] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

Possibly another of Hugh Huxham's Oriental scenas, In Lantern Land was one of numerous musical sketches (also referred to
as musical scenas) staged by The Serenaders during its 1918/1919 Brisbane season.
[NB: see additional notes in the entries to other Oriental in this database - e.g. In Sunny Japan (1915), In China Town (1917), and In Fair
Japan and Asia Minor (both 1918)]
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 1-7 Nov.
DO IT NOW: [revusical] Txt. Bert Le Blanc; Mus. [n/e]

Described in the Brisbane Courier as a "burlesque revue," Do it Now was "the first episode in a story which [was] revealed
more full in the sequel Get the Habit." The revusical's setting is in the stockbroking office of Will Cheatem, with Ike and Morris
as unsuspecting speculators who soon learn that stockbroking is the art of buying stock that doesn't exist with money you don't
possess and selling it for more than it cost" (11 Nov. 1918, 5).
Le Blanc's company in 1919 included brothers Jim Gerald and Lance Vane,
along with Gerald's wife, Essie Jennings.
1918: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 9-15 Nov.
- Troupe: Bert Le Blanc's Musical Travesty Stars.
Jake Mack and Bert Le Blanc

Australian Variety 7 June (1916), cover
- Cast incl. Bert Le Blanc (Ike Cohen), Jake Mack (Morris Levi), Mike Connors, Queenie Paul, Lillian Colenzo, Winnie
Knight [aka Mrs Bert Le Blanc], Lance Vane, Will Raynor; and Pony Ballet - Violet Penson, Rita Penson, Vera Tandy,
Rose Brennan, Hilda Lynn, Annie Henry).
1919: Fullers' Theatre, Sydney; 8-14 Mar.
- Troupe: Bert Le Blanc's Travesty Stars.
- Cast incl. Bert Le Blanc, Jake Mack, Jim Gerald (A. Long Reach), Essie Jennings, Lance Vane (Russian anarchist),
Queenie Paul (Cassia Roland),Mike Connors (Will Cheatem, the lover), Darcy Kellaway, Winnie Knight [aka Mrs
Bert Le Blanc], Neville Royal, Lillian Colenzo, Nellie Fallon; and the Pony Ballet: (Lucy Cliff, Annie Henry, Hilda
Lynn, Rosie Downie, Thelma Gourlay, Bertha Bush, Alma Hilson, Alice Lewis, Vera Tandy, Essie Davis).
- Do it Now was staged during the opening week of the new Fuller's Theatre.
"Empire Theatre, The." Brisbane Courier 11 Nov. (1918), 5.
"Fuller's New Theatre: Successful Opening." Sydney Morning Herald 10 Mar. (1919), 5.
Theatre Magazine Apr. (1919), 27.
THE VILLAGE SCHOOL [aka AN UP-COUNTRY VILLAGE SCHOOL]: [musical scena]

Txt/Mus. [n/e]
Also known as A Day in a Village School, this humorous musical scena was played out
during a day in an up-country village school. Possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in
collaboration with other members of his troupe. The Brisbane Courier writes of the 1919
Empire Theatre revival that the narrative revolved around "a day in which the schoolmaster
governed merely with the consent of the governed, and learnt more than he taught. Miss
Edith Huxham, as the Belle of the Ballet" ("Serenaders," 14).
Heruad, Miss Pop Batterbury, Dan Weldon, Olive Sneddon, Kitty Morton,
Pearlie McKenzie.
1919: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 24-30 Jan. [return season; 9-15 May]
- The 9-15 May programme also included the revusical Squire Badlot.
1919: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 25-31 Aug
- Dir. Hugh Huxham; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd.
- Cast incl. Hugh Huxham, Edith Huxham, Dan Weldon, Lalla Ward, Reg
Harrison, Sydney Hollister, Olive Sneddon, Fred Herand, Kitty Morton, Enid
Parker.
- NB: Huxham's Serenaders had ended their Cremorne engagement on 9 June (having
Brisbane Courier 16 Nov. (1918), 2. been with McCallum continuously since August 1918) and transferred across to the
Fullers Empire Theatre in late June.
"Serenaders, The." Brisbane Courier 25 Jan. (1919), 14.
LIFE IN A GYPSY CAMP: [musical scena] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

Described as an "operatic scena" ("Serenaders," 7), Life in a Gypsy camp was possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in
collaboration with other members of his troupe.
NB: It is unclear if any connection exists between this work and two similarly-titled productions, the musical scena My Gypsy Maid staged
in Brisbane in January 1918 by Walter George's Smart Set troupe; and My Gypsy Girl, a burlesque produced by Walter Johnson's Town Topics
Company ca. Oct/Nov. 1919.
- The entertainment also included the music scena The Storekeeper and other vaudeville turns.
"Serenaders, The." Brisbane Courier 23 Nov. (1918), 7.
GET THE HABIT: [revusical] Txt. Bert Le Blanc; Mus. [n/e]

Little is known about this sequel to Le Blanc's Do it Now revusical, which the Brisbane Courier records was produced for the
first time in Australia during the 1918 Empire Theatre season. No other revivals have been located to this date, however, and no
details are provided in reviews of that week apart from the following: "It's action will disclose what a crazy Russian Nihilist did
with certain missing stock certificates" ("Music and Drama," 12).
1918: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 23-29 Nov.
- Troupe: Bert Le Blanc's Musical Travesty Stars
- Cast incl. Bert Le Blanc (Ike Cohen), Jake Mack (Morris Levi), Mike Connors, Queenie Paul, Lillian Colenzo, Winnie
Knight [aka Mrs Bert Le Blanc], Lance Vane, Will Raynor; and the Pony Ballet (Violet Penson, Rita Penson, Vera
Tandy, Rose Brennan, Hilda Lynn, Annie Henry).
"Music and Drama." Brisbane Courier 23 Nov. (1918), 12.
MY LITTLE CHINEE GIRL IN CHINA: [musical scena] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

One of several "Oriental" or "Eastern" scenas staged in Brisbane during the year, it was possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in
collaboration with other members of his troupe. The Brisbane Truth records that My Little Chinee Girl in China [was] the latest of
the scenas in which the serenaders score success gratifying to all concerned" and that "the pretty little girl who takes the name part
deserves a box of the best chocolates every night" (6). Hugh Huxham is also said to have given "an admirable impersonation of a
homesick 'John.'" Two of the songs presented during the production were: "The International Rag" and "Oh Yes I Remember"
(sung by Edith Huxham).
The public's interest in these short musical sketches is evidenced by the fact that a large number were staged around Australia
between 1915 and 1918. In Brisbane during 1917, for example, John N. McCallum's Dandies company staged In China Town at
the Cremorne Theatre (ca. 14 Apr.); while McCallum's Courtiers company also presented a similar version of the same
"fascinating Chinese Scene" at the Cremorne in early September of the same year. A month later In Yokohama was staged by the
Smart Set Entertainers (12 Oct.). Productions of this type staged in Brisbane during 1918 include: In Sunny Japan (11-17 Jan);
two unnamed productions in February (1-7) and March (8-14); In Fair Japan (20-26 Sept.); and Asia Minor (11-17 Oct.).
NB: It is not clear whether there is a relationship between My Little Chinee China and any of the revusicals referred to above or with
several other Oriental productions known to have been staged by Australian companies around this period. Delyse Ryan (2000) has suggested
that with set pieces available from previous productions, it is likely that a deliberating factor in staging similar scenas at Brisbane's Cremorne
Theatre, for example, was the reduction in costs through the re-use of these materials. Whether the narratives were the same is uncertain. The
Glideway Skating Rink (Melbourne Street), for example, presented a 'tremendous scenic production' titled In Sunny Japan for its patrons in early
August 1916. Ctd. Brisbane Courier 5 Aug. 1916, 2.
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 28 Nov. - 5 Dec.
- The entertainment also included the musical burlesque The Travelling Tent Show.
"Footlight Fancies." Truth (Bris) 1 Dec. (1918), 6.
THE TRAVELLING TENT SHOW [aka THE TRAVELLING THEATRICAL SHOW]:

[burlesque] Txt/Mus. [n/e]
The escapades of an up-country travelling tent show, staged with songs, dances and with "sixty laughs to the minute"
(Brisbane Courier 28 Nov. 1918, 2). Possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in collaboration with other members of his troupe. The
Brisbane Courier notes that for the 1919 revival, "Hugh Huxham, Dan Weldon and Sydney Hollister were responsible for an apt
rendering of the trio, "Donald, Douglas and Dick" (17 May 1919, 7).
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 28 Nov. - 5 Dec.
- Staged along with the musical burlesque musical scena My Little Chinee Girl in China.
1919: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 16-22 May
- Cast and production as for previous season.
- The entertainment also included the vocal scena Milly from Piccadilly. After having been with John N. McCallum
since August 1918 Huxham's Serenaders transferred across to the Fullers Empire Theatre in late June 1919.
SQUIRE BADLOT: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

Although described in advertising as a "burlesque," Squire Badlot was likely to have been staged as a revusical. It was
possibly written by Hugh Huxham in collaboration with other members of his troupe.
1918: Cremorne Theatre, Brisbane; 6-12 Dec.
Heruad, Miss Pop Batterbury, Dan Weldon, Olive Sneddon, Kitty Morton, Pearlie
McKenzie.
1919: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 9-15 May
- The programme also included a revival of the musical scena, An Up-Country
Village School (aka The Village School).
Edith Huxham
Theatre Magazine Oct. (1915),
45
H.E.R. PETTICOAT: [burlesque revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]
Described in 1918 advertising as an "HMS Pinafore burlesque" (Brisbane Courier 14 Dec.
1918, 2) and in 1919 as an "original and cleverly written burlesque" (Brisbane Courier 3 May
1919, 7), this production was possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in collaboration with other
members of his troupe.
1918: . Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 13-19 Dec.
Cremorne
1919: Cremorne Garden Theatre (Bris); 2-8 May
"Serenaders, The." Brisbane Courier 14 Dec. (1918), 3.
DR DIPPY'S ASYLUM [DIPPY DIPPY]: [revusical] Txt. Bert Le Blanc; Mus. [n/e]
Little is known about this revusical in terms of its characters and plot line. One of the feature songs for the 1919 Fuller's
Theatre season was "I Love the Jukelele" [sic] a duet performed by Bert Le Blanc and Jake Mack ("Fullers', 11).
NB: It is not clear whether this production shares any relationship with another, similarly titled revue, known to have been first staged in
1918 by Joe Rox's company, Dr Croker's Asylum.
1918: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 14-20 Dec. [return season: 18-24 Jan. 1919]
- Troupe: Bert Le Blanc's Musical Travesty Stars
- Cast incl. Bert Le Blanc (Ike Cohen), Jake Mack (Morris Levie), Mike Connors, Queenie Paul, Lillian Colenzo,
Winnie Knight [aka Mrs Bert Le Blanc], Lance Vane, Will Raynor; and the Pony Ballet (Violet Penson, Rita Penson,
Vera Tandy, Rose Brennan, Hilda Lynn, Annie Henry).
- The return production was the final show for the Empire Theatre season.
1919: Fullers' Theatr, Sydney; 22-28 Mar. [as Dippy Dippy]
- Troupe: Bert Le Blanc's Musical Travesty Stars.
- Cast incl. Bert Le Blanc, Jake Mack, Mike Connors, Queenie Paul, Lance Vane, Jim Gerald, Essie Jennings, Lillian
Colenzo, Nellie Fallon, Darcy Kellway, Neville Royal; and the Pony Ballet (Lucy Cliff, Annie Henry, Hilda Lynn,
Rosie Downie, Thelma Gourley, Bertha Rush, Alma Hilson, Alice Lewis, Vera Tandy, Essie Davis).
"Fullers' New Theatre." Sydney Morning Herald 24 Mar. (1919), 11.
THE LOVE OF AN INDIAN SQUAW: [musical scena] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

Described as a picturesque Indian scena and possibly written by Hugh Huxham, in collaboration with other members of his
troupe.
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 21-24 Dec.
FINE! FINE! FINE!: [revusical] Txt. Paul Stanhope; Mus. [n/e]

Set "anytime and anyplace," this revusical's plot revolves around the attempts by Spike Murphy (the manager of a hotel) to
find a wife. Other principle characters include Prof. Keegan (the proprietor of the Inn), Lady St Clair (on vacation), while the
supporting ensemble included tourists, guests and footballers.
1918: Palace Theatre, Melbourne; 21-27 Dec.
- Dir. Paul Stanhope; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd.
- Troupe: Paul Stanhope's New Musical Revue Company.
- Cast incl. Paul Stanhope, Mark Erickson, Maud Miles, Ivy Moore, Edna McCall,
Helen Le Cain, Cora Casela, the Grafters' Quartet; and the Ginger Girls' Ballet
1919: Empire Theatre, Brisbane; 5-11 Apr. [return season: 7-13 June (Theatre Royal)]
- Dir. Paul Stanhope; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd.
- Troupe: Paul Stanhope Musical Comedy Revue Company.
- Cast incl. Paul Stanhope (Spike Murphy), Mark Erickson (Professor Keegan),
Ernest Pitcher (Hiram Butterface, looking for his health/Simon Jones, a patient),
Bert Morrison (Louis Dilly, a clerk), Cliff O'Keefe (Rev. Pick-Me-Up), Helen Le
Cain (Lady St Clair), Peal Livingstone (Birdie, an actress/Miss Fielding, a guest),
Maud Miles (Miss Van Ness, a tourist); the Ginger Girls (Eileen Moloney, Ivy
McKay, Cerise Caselli, Nicole Brady, Hilda Lynn, Ruby Solomon, Elsie Baron
and Gwen Moloney).
- The Grafters Quartet comprised H. Hart, F. Webber, Bert Morrison and Cliff
O'Keefe.
- This production was the season opener. Other revusicals staged during the Paul Stanhope
Theatre Magazine Apr. (1915), cover.
Brisbane season included: Roley Poley, Zig Zag, Safety First, Hokey Pokey,
Razzle Dazzle and See-Saw.
Brisbane Courier 5 Apr. (1919), 2. Advert.
"Palace - Vaudeville." Argus 23 Dec. (1918), 8.
JACK AND JILL: [pantomime] Lib. [n/e]; Mus incl. Robert Keers
A pantomime in two acts and twenty scenes, Jack and Jill is said to have been stolen by Barry Lupino in the dame role, with
one critic writing for example: "The house may be said to have rocked with laughter during the roaring farce of the school scene,
and while the dame with a caricature of a face and her insecure admirer gave sigh for sigh and smile for smile as sitting on the
edge of a cliff near the hill top from which Jack and Jill tumble down after drawing a pail of water" ("Palace Theatre," 7).
Reviewing the Palace Theatre premiere, the Herald review notes: "In this twentieth century elaboration of "Jack and Jill,"
the boy and girl of the time-worn nursery rhyme are almost lost in the comedy padding, the scenic ornamentation, and in the
spectacular embroideries, which include a number of dances and ballets arranged by Espinosa." The critic notes, for example, Bert
Bailey's role in the production: As "Ginger, the Prince's man, [he] spreads himself in songs and character sketches which have
nothing to do with Jack and Jill. In the first act we have Ginger in a modern sac suit singing about dear old Sydney in "Billo," with
a scenic background showing Man-o-war Steps. A little later the red-haired humorist, in an old-time costume, is audaciously
fooling with the Dame and singing, "Sprinkle me with Kisses" (ibid, 7).
The musical programme comprised ballet and incidental music by Robert Keers. Among the
other songs incorporated into the pantomime were: "Give Me No Man's Land" (sung by Gracie
Doran), "A Wedding in the Farmyard" (Ida Newton and Gracie Doran), "Life in the Old Girl Yet"
(Barry Lupino), "Billo" (Bert Bailey) and "Jogging along the Highway" and "The Blue Billabong"
(by David Loffman dressed as an Australian swagman). The Argus records that one of the highlights
of the Melbourne production was Bert Bailey's character study and song, "Billo" which concluded
with a mock Apache dance preformed with Gertie Latchford. Both the Age and Argus also drew
attention to the march of Australian products, symbolized by ingenious costume designs, which
concluded the pantomime.
The published synopsis of scenery is: Act 1 Sc 1. The Village of Peace and Plenty; Sc 2.
Corridor of the Regent's Palace; Sc 3. The Widow's Tonsorial Establishment; Sc 4. The Road to the
School; Sc 5. Man-O-War Steps; Sc 6. The School Room; Sc 7. The Road to the Well; Sc 8. The
Hill Top; Sc 9. On the Way to Bagdad; Sc 10. Bagdad; Act 2 Sc 1. The Haunt of the Hunchback; Sc
2. The Floral Ballet; Sc 3. The Corridor of the Regent's Palace; Sc 4. The Forge; Sc 5. The Road to
Nowhere; Sc 6. The Corridor to the Palace; Sc 7. A Spanish Courtyard; Sc 8. The Regent's Physic
Shop; Sc 9. Grand Finale in the Palace; Sc 10. The Christmas Plum Pudding.
Bert Baily as "Ginger" – a "Sentimental Bloke" characterization

Green Room Apr. (1919), 6.
1918: King's Theatre, Melbourne; 21 Dec. 1918 - 28 Jan. 1919

- Dir. Barry Lupino; Prod. Bailey and Grant, and J. and N. Tait; Cond. Fred Walford; S Art. Alfred Clint, William
Rowell; Chor. Espinosa; Cost. McCathie Ltd, Ada Colton, Madame Oughton; S Mngr. H. C. Nightingale; Ballet
Mistress Lena Henry.
- Cast incl. Dorothy Leigh (Jack), Gracie Doran (Jill), Barry Lupino (Dame Durden), Bert Bailey (Ginger), General Biff
(David Loffman), George Moon (Private Baff), Daniel Morris (Private Boff), James Vivian (Private Bim), Ernie
Stebbing (Private Zim), Daisy Yates (Trim, Lord in waiting), Joe Brennan (The Regent), Violet Collinson (Princess
Bountiful), Gertie Latchford (Fantine), William A. Hassan (Edward Ass-in-Nine), Virginia Roche (Prince Fearnaught),
Fred MacDonald (Carl the Hunchback), Fred Monument (Chief Slave), Una Jan (Fairy Queen), Elva Powie (Prima
Ballerina), Little Prilk Lupino [sic] (Dog Toby), Charles Albert (solo dancer), Ida Newton; Premieres Danseuses –
Lena Henry, Eileen Dorgan, Violet Harding, Rene Denerio.
- Other characters included: Villagers, Fairies, Slaves, Glow Worms, Soldiers, Goblins, Beauties, Persians, Spaniards,
Living Toys, Living Flowers.
- American principal boy Virginia Roche and English comedians/dancers Moon and Morris were unable to make it to
Melbourne in time for the premiere. Dorothy Leigh subsequently filled in the role of Prince Fearnaught (the part she
later played in Sydney), while Ida Newton (wife of Joe Brennan) took on the principal boy role of Jack
- NB: The season ended prematurely when Victorian theatres were forced to close due to the Flu epidemic.
1919: Palace Theatre, Sydney; 17 May - 26 June
- Cast and production mostly as for previous Sydney season.
- Cast changes for the 1919 production saw Dorothy Leigh play Prince Fearnaught and David Loffman play the Chief
Slave (this version does not appear to have a character named general Biff, the character Loffman was cast as in 1918).
- Sadie Pepper, whose name does not appear in advertising for the 1918 production is named as one of the Premieres
Danseuses in 1919.
- NB: The season was due to open in early April but was delayed when NSW theatres were closed due to the Spanish Flu epidemic.
"King's - Jack and Jill." Argus 23 Dec. (1918), 8.

"King's Theatre - Jack and Jill." Age 23 Dec. (1918), 6.
"Palace Theatre - Jack and Jill." Sydney Morning Herald 19 May (1919), 7.
1 2
Above: Jack and Jill chorus dressing room

Green Room June (1919), 23.
4
3
Left: 1. Violet Collinson (Princess Bountiful); 2. Gertie Latchford (Fantine);
3. Dorothy Leigh (Jack) and Virginia Roche (Prince Fearnaught); 4. George
Moon (Private Baff ) and Daniel Morris (Private Boff); 5. Joe Brennan (the
Regent) and William Hassan (Edward Ass-in-Nine).
THE BABES IN THE WOOD: [pantomime] Lib. Nat Phillips; Mus/Lyr. W. Hamilton Webber; Add Mus. incl.
Vince Courtney and Walter Whyte [aka Walter Jackson]
An adaptation of the popular pantomime story by Nat Phillips, the plot sees two young children kidnapped by robbers and
taken into a forest. As with many previous versions, much of the story is played out in Sherwood Forest, with various characters
from the Robin Hood legend introduced. The production also saw Nat Phillips and Roy Rene (as Stiffy and Mo) play the thieves
employed (by Horace Mann's character) to steal the babes.
One of the highlights of the pantomime was a tableau tribute to the Anzacs titled, "The Glory of Australia." In the march of
the battalions the various colours of troops and places the Australian's fought were also depicted. A painting of Gallipoli under fire
(by Lieut. G. P. Hoskins) was also presented. Other scenic highlights were said to be Rose Petals (aka Rose Land) and Sherwood
Forest.
This was the first of three Babes in the Wood pantomimes produced by the Fullers in four years. While there are similarities
between this production and that staged in Melbourne beginning Christmas 1921, notably the scenic settings, names of some
characters and music by W. Hamilton Webber, it is not believed that they are the same work.
NB: The Fullers' other Babes in the Wood pantomime was produced in Sydney in mid-January (libretto by Frank Neil).
1918: Grand Opera House, Sydney; 21 Dec. 1918 - 4 Apr. 1919
- Dir. Nat Phillips; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; S Art. Rege Robins; Chor. Lydia Carne; Cost. Mrs Edwards;
Children's Dir. Chrissie Royal.
- Cast incl. Queenie Paul (Robin Hood), Daisy Merritt (The Dame), Horace Mann (The Bad Baron), Caddy Franks (The
Witch), Nat Phillips (Stiffy), Roy Rene (Mo), Vince Courtney (Idle Jack), Rita Star (Mayflower), Cliff O'Keefe (King
Caterpillar), Dan Dunbar (Horatio), Lydia Carne (Back Black Rose), The Paulestos (goblins), Billy Le Brun (The
Donkey), Dot O'Dea (Pan), Vera Starr (Janie), Peter Brooks (Keeper of the Stocks), Walter Jackson [aka Walter
Whyte] (The Beadle), Stella Starr (Strongheart), Belle Pollard (Queen Paradise), Stella and Myee Lamond (The
Babes), Zenda Banks (Bandbox Belle), Jack Wilson (her masher), The Nine Mites.
- Child Chorus: Lottie Thompson, Violet Jagleman, Melba Ferrington, Annie Sturgeon, Eileen McGrath, Maudy
Boyce, Ruby Mudd.
- Amy Rochelle played Robin Hood from 1 Feb. onwards
"Babes in the Wood, The." Sydney Morning Herald 23 Dec. (1918), 10.
"Sundry Shows." Bulletin 26 Dec. (1918), 8-9.
SINBAD THE SAILOR: [pantomime] Lib. Ella Airlie; Mus. [n/e]

The plot of this Fullers' pantomime "departs from the Arabian Nights tale as freely as the plots of most pantomimes do from
their fairy book origins," writes the Argus theatre critic. "It deals with a voyage made by Sinbad to present a famous diamond to
the Sultan of Serindip. A group of conspirators, including Steal, the arch villain and the inevitable Old Man of the Sea, seek to
thwart him, and a storm is raised (providing the opportunity for a realistic stage setting), but after several vicissitudes, [Sinbad]
triumphs over his foes, and wins the heart of the Sultan's daughter, the Princess Zoe" (8).
Songs written, or adapted, into the narrative include: "Cats on the Tiles," "Nautical Captain Brown," "The Ship of Love,"
"Here Come the Anzacs," "Flossie the Flapper," "Dame of the Veils," "Kiss Me," "Knit, Knit," "Dame of the Minchinbury," "I'll
Throw a Ring Around You," and "The Shell" and "Butterfly" ballets. The Argus records that one un-named ballet, described as a
Ju-jitsu dance with Apache elements, was "a rather strained intrusion." The critic went so far as to suggest that "worked up, say, as
an island dance scene [it] might possible be jammed in to advantage" ("Bijou - Sinbad," 8).
1918: Bijou Theatre, Melbourne; 21 Dec. 1918 - 18 Jan. 1919
- Dir. Al Johnson; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd.
- Cast incl. Lola Hunt (Sinbad), Billie Mavis (Princess Zoe), Belle Millnette (Hinbad), Nellie Fallon (Zorilda - Sinbad's
sister), Elsie Sloan (Venus), Florrie Horan (The Old Man of the Sea), Harry Farrow (Mrs Tinbad), Harry Burgess (her
son), Gus Franks (Cassim), Ernest Lashbrooke (Stealo), Les Warton (Captain Brown/Sultan of Serindip), Florrie
Wilson, Lila Dabscheck.
"Bijou - Sinbad the Sailor." Argus 23 Dec. (1918), 8.

"Bijou Theatre - Sinbad." Age 23 Dec. (1918), 6.
GOODY TWO SHOES: [pantomime] Lib Adapt. Frank Dix; Mus incl. Andrew MacCunn
Adapted by Frank Dix from R. C. Oldham's pantomime, which is itself believed to have been taken from an original story by
Oliver Goldsmith (Argus 23 Dec. 1918, 8), this J. C. Williamson production featured eminent comedian Arthur Stignant as the dame
and American principal girl Madeleine Harrison as Goody Two Shoes. According to the Sydney Morning Herald the Sydney
season was all the more welcome after seven weeks deprivation of all theatrical entertainment due to the Spanish Flu and
subsequent theatre closures.
In relation to the story the Age theatre critic writes: "There is no more story in the book of Goody Two Shoes than is usual for
an extravaganza. Such story as there is concerns a pair of pink satin shoes, which the Fairy Queen owns, the wizard wants and
Goody wears (6).
The published synopsis of scenes and incidents is: Prologue: The Living Clock; Act 1 Sc 1. Astrologer's Room in the Duke's
Palace; Sc 2. The Village of Blossomville; Sc 3. Anteroom in the Duke's Palace; Sc 4. Belgian Rose; Sc 5. Madame Jewel's
Marionettes in Circus Day in Toyland; Sc 6. The Kitchen; Sc 7. Bubbles; Sc 8. The Shipbuilding Yards; Sc 9. Back Parlour of the
Palace; Sc 10. Room in the Palace of Cards (incl. The Ballet of the Fortune Tellers); Act 2 Sc 1. The Toymaker's Forest; Sc 2.
Toyland; Sc 3. The Fringe of the Forest; Sc 4. A Garden; Sc 5. A Room; Sc 6. Kenna Brothers in the Clouds; Sc 7. The North
Pole; Sc 8. On the Road; Sc 9. The Banqueting Hall.
The musical programme included: "By Plot and Guile" (sung by Maude Gray and Lou Vernon), "What Can the Matter Be,"
"We'll Have a Deuce of a Spree" and "Why am I Always the Bridesmaid" (Arthur Stignant), "Chasing Rainbows," "Belgian Rose"
and "I'm Sorry I Made You Cry" (May de Sousa), "Oh Happy Pair" (Sc 2. finale), "K-K-K-Katy," "Say I To Myself, Says I," "I
Hate to Get Up in the Morning," "The Last Long Mile" (Toby Claude), "Oh Frenchy" (Madeleine Harrison and chorus),
"Bubbles" (Maggie Dickinson), "The Lads in Blue" (Dorothy Hastings), "On the Level, You're a Little Devil" (May de Sousa and
Madeleine Harrison), "You Don't Know" (Maude Gray), "Swing Swing" (Act 2 opening chorus), "I'm Gonna Pin My Medal on
the Girl I Left Behind" (May de Sousa and chorus), "For Years an' Years an' Years" (Arthur Stignant and Herbert Walton),
"Springtime" (Madeleine Harrison), and "Zip-Zip-Zip" (Act 2 finale).
Specialty scenes and acts included: "Assembling a Husband" (comedy sketch by Arthur Stignant); Children's Flower Ballet;
Scene 4 Tableau (Belgium, Italy, France, Australia and the Allies); Fred Walton's "Toy Soldier," "Foraging for Rations" and "To
the River" sketches; a Robinson Crusoe burlesque (Arthur Stignant); The March of the Cards; The Miraculous Tent; and a
Children's Toy Ballet. The Sydney Morning Herald also records that a novel effect was introduced "in the form of a giant crystal
globe that reflected emerald and ruby colours, and as it revolved threw from its myriad facets swiftly shifting dazzling patches of
light upon the chorus below" (19 May 1919, 6).
1918: Her Majesty's Theatre, Melbourne; 21 Dec. 1918 - 28 Jan. 1919
- Dir. Charles A. Wenman; Prod. J. C. Williamson Ltd (Managing Directors: George Tallis, Hugh J. Ward and Clyde
Meynell); M Dir/Arr. Andrew MacCunn; S Art. W. R. Coleman and George Upward; Chor. Minnie Everett; S Mngr.
J. Whitfield.
- Cast incl. May de Sousa (Alan, the Duke's rightful heir), Floie Allan (Zoe, the Wizard's daughter), Madeleine Harrison
(Goody), Arthur Stignant (Mrs Tutt, Goody's mother), Toby Claude (Araminta, a maid of sorts), Maude Gray (Fairy
Lightheart), Rene Tanswell (Duchess of Improvidentia), Lou Vernon (Demon of Discontent), Ernest Langford (The
Duke of Improvidentia), Con Moreni (The Mayor of Blossomville), Dorothy Hastings (Ronnie, the Mayor's son),
Maggie Dickinson (The Spirit of the Dance), Kenna Brothers (Bucephalus and Aesop), Kelso Henderson (premiere
dancer) Herbert Walton (Clarence, the Duke's son), Stanley Odgers (The Wizard), Fred Walton (The Toy Soldier).
- NB: The season ended prematurely when Victorian theatres were forced to close due to the Flu epidemic.
1919: Her Majesty's Theatre, Sydney; 17 May - 4 July
- Cast and production mostly as for previous Melbourne season.
- Sydney Yates replaced Kelso Henderson as premier dancer.
"Goody Two Shoes." Sydney Morning Herald 19 May (1919), 6.

"Her Majesty's - Goody Two Shoes." Argus 23 Dec. 1918, 8.
"Her Majesty's Theatre - Goody Two Shoes." Age 23 Dec. 1918, 6.
BLUEBEARD: [pantomime] Lib/Lyr. Frank Neil; Orig Mus/Add Lyr. W. Hamilton Webber; Add Mus/Lyr. incl.
Vince Courtney, Nat Phillips
Bluebeard begins in Toyland, where the arrival of Father Christmas heralds the traditional quest for a pantomime story. The
second scene, set in the Square of Aleppo, sees the forces of evil, led by Demon Discord, and the forces of good, led by Queen
Felicity, draw their battles lines prior to the arrival of Bluebeard. The story proper then begins, as Selim's sweetheart, Fatima, is
abducted by Bluebeard and taken to his harem. Meanwhile Selim declares, "I am a lover brave and true, and all the world the
world knows what a lover can do." He then sets forth on the H.M.A.S. Melbourne to rescue his would-be lover. Act II begins in
Bluebeard's Fairy Garden, in the centre of which lays a Wonderful
Water Fountain. Fatima, now firmly in the grip of Bluebeard’s
power, has been condemned to die just like his seven wives. At
midnight, upon the conclusion of "Weird Ghost Ballet," Selim
arrives to rescue Fatima, and dispatches Bluebeard in the process.
The pantomime ends in Selim's Wonderful Palace of Fans, during
which the transformation scene - "The March of the Fans," is
presented. "The Wedding of Selim and Fatima" is then followed by
the glittering finale "Wedding Bells" (Fuller News 18 Feb. 1922, 9).
W. Hamilton Webber composed original incidental music and
collaborated with Frank Neil on a number of songs for the original
production, including: "The Opening Chorus" and "Act 1 Finale
Chorus" (Neil/Webber); "Come to the Great Bazaar Today"
(Webber); "Cuddle in your Mammy's Arms" (Neil) sung by Fifi de
Tisne; "The Passing of the Hours" (a ballet by Neil/Webber); Act 1
Finale Chorus "Floating Away" (Neil/Webber) and "Swan Boat"
(Neil/Webber) sung by Essie Jennings and chorus.
Other songs incorporated into the pantomime were: "Just Had a
Drop of Gin with Martha," "Let's all Have a Jolly Good Cry" and "A
Nosy Noise Annoys an Oyster" (sung by Jim Gerald); "Let's all be
Good Pals Together" and "Lucky" (Nellie Kolle); "Welcome to the
Day," "Cleopatra's Got a Jazz Band Now," "Jazz Boat" (Fifi de
Tinse); and "Wedding Bells' (Company). Most of this material was
also used for the 1920 and 1921 revivals. Dance numbers included
"The Spirit of the Dawn" and "The Enchanted Mummy Dance"
(performed by Polly McLaren), "The Golden Fairy Ballet" (Doris
Tointon), and "The Skeleton Ballet."
Additional material comprised popular songs of the day and
several songs by cast members. Vince Courtney contributed, for
Theatre Dec. (1920), 21.
example, 'That Little Home Among the Hills' and 'Sarah' to the 1920
and 1921 revivals. One of Nat Phillips' songs, "The Pickanniny's Land of Dreams' was also featured in one or both of these
productions.
1918: Majestic Theatre, Sydney; 26 Dec. 1918 - 17 Jan. 1919
- Dir. Frank Neil; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd.
- Cast incl. Jim Gerald (Sister Mary), Essie Jennings.
- A second edition of the pantomime was presented for the final week (11-17 Jan.), and included new songs, dances and
specialties.
1920: Grand Opera House, Sydney; 18 Dec. 1920 - 11 Mar. 1921
- Dir. Frank Neil; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; S Art.
Rege Robins; Chor. Bella Perman.
- Cast incl. Jim Gerald (Sister Mary), Essie Jennings, Vince Courtney (Bill Jellico), Ray De Vere, Harry Burgess, Gus
Franks, De Winter and Rose, Ferry the Frog, Archie and Gertie Falls, Kathleen Shearer, Lydia Crane, Victor
Fitzherbert, Arthur Vance, John Kirby, The Darwinians.
1921: Princess Theatre, Melbourne; 24 Dec. 1921 - 25 Mar. 1922 [135 pfms]
- Dir. Frank Neil; Prod. Fullers' Theatres Ltd; Cond/M Dir. Reginald De Talworth; S Art. Rege Robins; Chor. Doris
Tointon; B Mngr. Roy Fuller; S Mngr. Jack Kirby; Cost. Miss Moar and Mrs Dunne.
- Cast incl. Jim Gerald (Sister Mary), Essie Jennings (Queen Felicity), Jefferson Tait (Bluebeard), Frank Neil (Rastus),
Nellie Kolle (Selim), Raymond Johnson (Father Christmas), Polly McLaren (Zarella), Eddie De Tisne (Demon
Discord), Lorna Ballard (Cupid), Fifi De Tisne (Fatima), Jack Kirby (Willie Wagtail), Ardley Reale (The Monkey),
Bumps and Falls (Catchem and Loseum), Ferry The Frog, The Marvellous Flying Winskills, Thomas Winskill;
Bluebeard's Murdered Wives - Sadie Reed (Zuleka), Stella Noonan (Zamara), Kathleen Dubois (Zensda), Myrtle Dale
(Corita), Trizie Caley (Sabine), Doris Lemar (Mena); Bluebeard's Dancing Harem Girls - Olive Symonds, Gladys
Fryer, Beattie Marshall, Alma Stewart, Ivy Moule, Vera Nixon, Gladys Devereux, Myrtle Adair, Ruby Gray, Doris
Hunter, Thelma Prittard, Irene Scully, Minnie Nathan, Maggie Berry, Doreen Beaumont, Kathleen Wolthers;
Bluebeard's Guard - Madge Newbould, Elsie Allen, Iris Lette, Mary Ryan, Pansy Mason, Lillian Bennett, Mona Quine,
Marie Stein, Edna McCall, Flo Shenwick, Jean Vernon, Clarice Johnson; Cupid's Army of Fairies - Ada Law, Petty
Roberts, Esther Powrie, Nellie Wigston, Leile Battye, Edna Pritchard, Phyllis Moyle, Tubby Wood, Grace Webster,
Mavis Ball, Bonnie Boxshall, Violet Burge, Eileen Fahey, Ivy Prescott, Virgin Uren, Elvie Watson.
Age 24 Dec. (1921), 16. Advert.
"Ballet Girls at Play: New Version of Bluebeard." Fuller News Apr. (1922), 6.
Fuller News Dec/Jan. (1921-22), v. pags. [Pantomime Souvenir 1921-1922, incl. photographs. See also photos 4 Feb. 1922, v. pag.]
Fuller News 18 Feb. (1921), 9-10. Advert.
"Praise for Bluebeard: Melbourne Critic Praises Production at the Princess." Fuller News 4 Mar. (1922), 4.
"Princess - Bluebeard." Argus 27 Dec. (1921), 7.
Sydney Morning Herald 18 Dec. (1920), 2. Advert.
Theatre Dec. (1920), n. pag.
THE BABES IN THE WOOD: [pantomime] Txt. Hugh Huxham; Mus. [n/e]
Described in advertising as a "potted pantomime" this version of the popular children's pantomime burlesqued the traditional
lines and characters while staying bound, more or less, within the familiar story.
1918: Cremorne Garden Theatre, Brisbane; 26 Dec. 1918 - 1 Jan. 1919
1920: Lyric Theatre, Melbourne; 24 Dec. 1920 - 6 Jan. 1921
- Dir. Hugh Huxham.
- Cast incl. Hugh Huxham, Edith Huxham, Reg Harrison, Sydney Hollister, Reg Harrison, Fred Heruad, Miss Pop
Batterbury, Dan Weldon, Olive Sneddon, Kitty Morton, Pearlie McKenzie.
"Serenaders, The." Brisbane Courier 14 Dec. (1918), 3. [see also 28 Dec.1918, 5]

STRUTH: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]
1918: Temperance Hall, Hobart; 27 Dec. 1918 - 1 Jan.
- Dir. Elton Black; M Dir. J. J. Knowles.
- Cast incl. Elton Black, Peter Brooks, George Campbell, Grace Doran, Gerald Lashman, Pearl Livingstone, Alma
Mayo, Billy Maloney, Molly O'Connor, Cliff O'Keefe, Harry Quealy.
ON THE PROMENADE: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

While precise details of this production (company/venue and dates) are unclear at this stage, it is likely to have been written
by George Edwards, one of the revusical's leads. The Theatre Magazine indicates that the two Edwards (Alf and George) were
exhilarating as a pair of "black-faced aristocratic deadbeats" (Jan. 1919, 28).
1918: Harry Clay's Sydney Suburban circuit; ca. Dec.
- Prod. Clay's Bridge Theatre Ltd.
- Cast incl. George Edwards, Alf Edwards, Rosie Parkes.
Rosie Parkes and George Edwards

Sun (Sydney) 1 Sept. (1918), 18.
Last updated: 2/07/2016

Expanded and updated from Clay Djubal, "What Oh Tonight" (Appendix C), Ph D Diss (2005) U of Qld.
NB: The URL for this PDF will change each time it is updated. If you wish to cite or link to this record please use the following:
Australian Variety Theatre Archive • http://ozvta.com/1910s/

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1918

A NIGHT IN VENICE: [revusical] Txt. Les Williams; Mus. [n/e]

Charters Towers: Northern Miner 27 June (1918), 2.

MY GYPSY MAID: [musical playlet] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

"Smart Set, The." Brisbane Courier 26 Jan. (1918), 15.

Brisbane Courier 25 Jan. (1918), 2.

KEYSTONE POLICEMEN: [burlesque] Txt. Arthur Helmsley; Mus. [n/e]

BY THE SILVERY SEA: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

LORD FOR A NIGHT: [revusical] Txt. Arthur Morley; Mus. [n/e]

DR CROKER'S ASYLUM: [revusical] Txt. Joe Rox; Mus. [n/e]

Kitching, Harry. Australian Variety 8 Feb. (1918), n. pag.

THE SCARAB: [revusical] Txt. Les Williams; Mus. [n/e]

X-Ray. "Month in Vaudeville." Theatre Magazine Mar. (1918), 33.

NOSEY PARKER NOSE: [revusical] Txt. George Edwards; Mus. [n/e]

George Edwards. Green Room Apr. (1918), 10.

LANKY AND BULKY IN PARIS: [revusical] Txt. George

"Aladdin." Sydney Morning Herald 11 Mar. (1918), 5.

THE JOLLY TAR: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

DOOLAN'S BIGHT: [revusical] Txt. Art Slavin; Mus. [n/e]

MIXED GOODS: [revusical] Txt. George Edwards; Mus. [n/e]

CHINAMEN: [revusical] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]

Nat Phillips, Roy Rene and Daisy Merritt.

CAPTAIN KETTLE: [revusical] Txt. George Pagden; Mus. [n/e]

Kitching, Harry. Australian Variety 17 May (1918), n. pag.

DUSTMEN: [revusical] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]

THERE'S MILLIONS IN IT: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

COBBERS: [revusical] Txt. Billy Watson; Mus. [n/e]

ELIXIR OF LOVE: [revusical] Txt. Al Bruce; Mus. [n/e]

"Empire Theatre." Brisbane Courier 15 Dec. (1919), 9.

TOYLAND: [extravaganza] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

CARMELITA: [musical comedy] Txt. Victor Prince; Mus. Fred Whaite

1918: Palace Theatre, Melbourne; 1-21 June.

"Empire Theatre." Brisbane Courier 5 Jan. (1920), 4.

HOME SWEET HOME: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

A GAY DESERTER: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

"Bridge Theatre." Australian Variety 7 June (1918), n. pag.

JOCKEYS: [revusical] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]

"Empire Theatre." Brisbane Courier 13 Dec. (1926), 17.

MEXICANS [aka TOREADORS, IN MEXICO, FUN IN MEXICO, IN SPAIN and

NB: Ysabelle Groves also known as Isabel Groves.

FORTUNE HUNTING: [musical comedy] Txt/ Mus. [n/e]

"Dramatic Notes." Leader (Melbourne) 6 July (1918), 33.

THE TOURISTS IN JAPAN: [revusical] Txt. Edwin Waller; Mus. [n/e]

IN THE HOSPITAL: [revusical] Txt. Nat Phillips; Mus. [n/e]

THE NEW M.P. [revusical] Txt. Al Bruce; Mus. [n/e]

Roy Rene and Nat Phillips

LULU: [revusical] Txt. Al Bruce; Mus. [n/e]

"Empire, The." Brisbane Courier 20 June (1921), 4.

DOLLY'S DILEMMA: [musical comedy] Txt/ Mus. [n/e]

AN UP COUNTRY COURT HOUSE: [burlesque] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

WE HAVE GOT SOME PRESENTS: [musical sketch] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

KIDSTAKES JUNCTION: [musical scena] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

STRANDED AT WOOP WOOP: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

IN FAIR JAPAN: [musical scena] Txt/Mus. [n/e]

A WAITER'S DILEMMA: [revusical] Txt. Maurice Chenoweth; Mus. [n/e]

AN EXCITING HONEYMOON: [revusical] Txt/Mus. [n/]

SOCK THE KAISER: [revusical] Txt. Art Slavin; Mus. [n/e]