QUEEN’S THEATRE.

Evening Star, Issue 3273, 16 August 1873, Page 2

QUEEN’S THEATRE.

David Garrick’s comedy of “High Life below Stairs ” was produced, for the first time in Dunedin, at this theatre last evening. The completeness with which the piece was placed upon the stage gave one a very good idea of the strength of this excellent company, for, with one or two minor exceptions, there was not a hitch in its representation. As the plot may not be familiar to the majority of playgoers, the following brief outline of its leading features may not be unacceptable. On the rising of the curtain, Mr hovel, a gentleman who employs a large number of servants, is engaged in conversation with a particular friend, Mr Freeman, who informs him that he is being swindled by his servants. The former denies this, and asserts that, with the exception of one named Tom, whom he suspects of dishonesty, there is no foundation for the accusation. However, in order to ascertain for himself the truth or falsehood of the statement, Mr hovel gives out that be is going into the country for a time, adopts the disguise of a country bumpkin, and through Mr Freeman causes himself to be introduced to Philip, his steward, and one in whom he places the utmost confidence, and enters his own service. Advantage is taken of his supposed absence by his servants, who invite a number of friends who are engaged in the service of aristocratic families, each one of whom assumes the name of his or her master or mistress, as the case may be. Mr Level’s disguise is so effectual that his servants are thrown off their guard, and they openly converse about their nefarious practices jin his presence. The party, which passes off with great eclat , terminates with an excellent supper ; while so engaged a knock is heard at the door, and upon Philip informing the guests that it is his master’s, the greatest confusion ensues, the table is cleared and put away, and those not connected with the house take refuge in the pantry. Ultimately, Mr hovel and his friend, Mr Freeman, are admitted, and to the utter discomfiture of the hypocritical Philip, informs him he is perfectly well acquainted with his villany. While engaged in conversation with Philip and Mistress Kitty, a sneeze is heard, which Kitty says is the cat; but upon Mr hovel saying he will shoot the animal through the pantry door, the visitors are obliged to come out and beat an ignominious retreat. The comedy winds up by honest Tom being promoted to Philip’s situation. The part of Mr hovel was played by Mr Booth in a finished style ; and his assumption of the countx’y yokel was to the life. Miss Colville had not a prominent character in that of Mistress Kitty : but as is always the case with this lady, the little she had to do was done well. Miss Anstead and Miss Mainwaring, as hady Charlotte’s Maid and Lady Bab’s Maid, provoked uproarious laughter by their extravagant dress and gestures. The part of My Lord Duke’s Footman was played by Mr Hoskins as only he can play it; and the opening dialogue between him and Sir Hairy’s Groom (Mr Hydes) was something unique in its way. The latter gentleman had a character that suited him, and such being the case, it is hardly necessary to say he was successful. Incidental to the comedy, a dance by the company was introduced, entitled “ Nodding Quadrilles,” which was received with loud applause. We can cordially recommend those who stand in need of a hearty laugh to pay a visit to the theatre to-night. “Woodcock’s Little Game” preceded the comedy. This evening, “ She Stoops to Conquer” will be the first piece.