The entertainment provided "The Grotesques" last. Friday night was full of good things, and showed the clever little Company at its beat.
The "Rhymes" composed by Mise Irene Greville, and Messrs. Fred Winn and Ewart Scott were productive of roars of laughter, and Mr. Hugh Bayly's "Ragtime Golly-wog Man" was a taking number in which much clever "business" was introduced. Mr. Arthur Argent's contributions were welcome as they were well sung, and Miss Phoebe Hodgson wi especially good in her solo numbers, "Waltz Me, Dearie" and "Best Foot Forward."
The "Musical Impressions" given by the whole Company evoked great admiration by the charming effect produced in some instances and by their humour in others, and must be reckoned among the best of the good things they have done here. The infectious humour of Mr, Fred Winn was responsible for peals of laughter, especially in "The Telephone Belle," and in "Ragtime Nursery Rhymes," in which latter he had the valuable assistance of Messrs. Hugh Bayly and Ewart Boott.
Miss Lilian Gwynne's mellow voice is one of the most admired featuree of "The Grotesques," and never fails to please. In Mr, Ewart Scott the Company possesses a worthy associate of Mr. Fred Winn, which is sufficient commendation. Several words of praise are justly due to Mr. Albert Simner for his excellent work at the piano, and not the least important element of the success of the Company is the full use made of the lighting effects, which are skilfully handled and add much. to the general effect.
During their short stay in Shanghai "The Grotesques" have deserve edly won their way into the good graces of Shanghai audiences. Monday night's entertainment was even better than usual, Mr. Ewart Scott being encored several times for hie song "Gilbert" and "The Dashing Dragoon." Mr, Arthur Argent was also recalled for his songs "Somerset," and "Jack Briton," both well suited to his fine baritone. The stage effects in the duet " Fairyland" and Miss Lilian Gwynne's sweet singing were one of the fe tures of the evening. "The Village Concert," during the second half, was rather difficult to follow owing to the continuous wave of laughter it provoked. aided by the accompanying throb of a nearby gas engine,
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.