PHIL. WALSH DRAMATIC COMPANY.

King Country Chronicle, Volume III, Issue 154, 10 May 1909, Page 2

PHIL. WALSH DRAMATIC COMPANY.

" Sons of the Sea."

Phil Walsh and his clever company gave a fine presentation of this pretty play on Saturday evening last. From start to finish the many exciting incidents, the crisp and witty language and sterling acting of the company kept the audience in a pleasurable state of exctiement. The unanimous verdict recorded at the close of the performance was that this fine production had reached the high watermark of public approval. Mr Walsh as "Gerald Hardy" played with quiet ease and nalur alness, and the heroic young naval officer stood out as a real live human being, was difficult to identify with a stage creation. Miss Eva Mai-rus-Paigne, as Mabel Hardy, the winsome heroine of the play, had a role that gave her ample scope for the display of brilliant and clever acting, and she certainly availed herself to the I full of her opportunities, giving a finI ished and artistic performance that stamps her as an artiste of exceptional merit. Miss Fannie M. Paigne was well placed as the light hearted Molly, playing with archness and vivacity throughout, and providing an excellent comedy element. Miss Eleanor Wade did excellent work as Hilda, as also did Miss M. Castles as the old Hag, Mag Ryl-stone. Messrs Thos. Hilton and Stuart McArea as a brace of unscrupulous villians enacted their roles in fine style, as did Mr Will Warton as Carl Rylstone. Mr McLean war well placed as Captain Trenton, while the part of Tommy Dodd, the comic of the play was in the safe hands of Mr Sydney Mitchell. This young actor with Miss Fannie Paigne as Molly, became prime favourites with the audience. The minor parts were capably performed and the scenery was new and appropriate. Miss Therese Casey contributed excellent overtures and incidental music, and Mr J. Mead looked after the comfort of the audience in high class style,. In a happy little curtain speech, which by the way contained several witty stories, Mr Walsh announced the performance for tonight: "The American Tramp." This fine drama will have an excellent cast, Mr Walsh and Miss Paigne reappearing in their original creation of' The Tramp and his Daughter."