IVERS1TY Of MiFOXNIA 'J THE PLAYERS BLUE BOOK. COMPILED BY A. D. STORMS. WORCESTER, MASS. SUTHERLAND & STORMS, PUBLISHERS. COPYRIGHT, I9OI, BY A. r>. STORMS. THE PLAYEP5 BLUE BOOK 070 PREFACE. In compiling The Players Blue Book the aim has been to supply a series of photographs and short biographies of those actors and actresses best known at the present time and to furnish in convenient form a souve- nir of this age of the drama in America from the view point of those who interpret it. It is not meant to be a critical work, nor a work of reference, though accuracy has been sought after above all else. Information about the people of whom the book tells has been obtained from the people themselves, though in a few cases where this information was found to be too meager, other sources have been questioned. The vain imaginings of press agents have been carefully eliminated, and the attempt has been to present the matter in an attractive form and to say as much as possible in the space alloted to each biography. Of course, in a work of this kind it is well nigh impossible to please every one. Some names may have been omitted which by right should have place, and other names added which, in the opinion of some, should have been left out. It has been the object of the compiler to present those who have by their efforts and talents found place in the front ranks of the profession and to give facts without prejudice. When it has been possible to procure well authenticated anecdotes or bits of life history not exactly bearing upon theatrical experience but of an interesting nature, these have been briefly told, in the belief that dry information is not digestible without a sauce of story. The compiler wishes to thank the members of the profession, manag- ers, and others who have assisted in making the completion of this work possible, and to acknowledge his gratitude especially to those whose por- traits and biographies appear herein. JOSEPH JEFFERSON. Since the year 1728, the name Jefferson has been known to the play-going public. The fourth in descent of this line of famous actors is Joseph Jefferson, the son of Joseph Jefferson, and the great-grandson of Thomas Jefferson. He was born in Philadelphia, February 20, 1829, and was reared amidst theatrical surroundings, and in 1833, when but four years old, he made his first appearance at a theatre in Washington, being carried upon the stage by the late Thomas D. Rice. Five years later the Jefferson family moved to Chicago, and for the next twelve years led the life of stroll- ing players, acting in country hotels, and even in barns. Mr. Jefferson's first appearance in *' Rip Van Winkle," his great- est success, was in 1860, at the Adelphi Theatre, London. Since that time he has played in this piece over five thousand times. Mr. Jefferson has also impersonated many other characters, the most notable of which are Bob Acres, in *' The Rivals;" Caleb Plummer, in " The Cricket on the Hearth, " and Dr. Pangloss. Mr. Jefferson enjoys the distinction of being the richest player in the world, his wealth being estimated at more than two millions. Mr. Jefferson has lectured on many different occasions, and, after making his first appearance as a lecturer at Yale, received the degree of LL. D. In 1893, he was elected president of the Players Club, succeeding Edwin Booth. Mr. Jefferson was first married in 1850, to Margaret Clem- ents Lockyer, who died in 1861. He was remarried in 1867, to Sarah Isabel Warren. Photo by Morrison. Chicago. JOSEPH JEFFERSON. VIOLA ALLEN. Viola Allen is the daughter of C. Leslie Allen, a well known character actor, who comes from a good old Boston fam- ily, and Sarah Byron Allen, an English woman of fine descent. Miss Allen was born in Alabama, but when three years old went with her parents to Boston, where her father was for many years a prominent member of the famous Boston Theatre Company. Her education, begun in Boston, was continued at Wykham Hall, Toronto, Canada, and when she removed with •the family to New York, she attended a fashionable boarding school in that city for a few months, and made her debut as " Esmeralda," in the play of that name, at the age of fifteen at the Madison Square Theatre, where Mr. Allen was then playing. After a few trial performances, the youthful aspirant was engaged for the part and travelled with the company six months, her own father acting the part of her father in the play and imparting to her daily instruction in stage craft. Like him. Miss Allen was a devoted student of Shakespeare, and subse- quently played many of the great bard's heroines, as well as other classical roles and famous parts in the "old comedies" with the great Italian, Tomaso Salvini, his son Alexander Sal- vini, John McCullough, Lawrence Barrett and Joseph Jefferson. After one season at the historical Boston Museum, creating and playing a variety of parts. Miss Allen was the original "Princess" in the production of Bronson Howard's "Aristoc- racy." She next accepted the position as leading lady at the Empire Theatre, New York, and became a popular favorite in that city, meeting with especial success in the plays of "Liberty Hall," "Sowing the Wind," " The Masqueraders," " Michael and His Lost Angel," " John o' Dreams," and " Under the Red Robe." Two seasons ago Miss Allen withdrew from the Em- pire forces, and with her own company became a star under the management of Liebler & Co., appearing first as Glory Quayle, in "The Christian," by Hall Caine, in which play she gained almost unprecedertted artistic and financial reward. Good fortune has followed her closely, and as Dolores ^lendoza, in the romantic play " In the Palace of the King," she has equalled, if not surpassed, her former successes. 8 Photo bv Miner, New York. VIOLA ALLEN, RICHARD MANSFIELD. It was on the nig^ht of January 10, 1883, that Richard Mansfield startled the theatrical world by his wonderful por- trayal of the character of Baron Chevrial, in "A Parisian Ro- mance." Before that time he had been but little known; since then everybody has heard of him and to-day he ranks in Amer- ica as does Sir Henry Irving in England. His '' Dr. Jekylland Mr. Hyde," his magnificent production of ''Richard III," and later his production of ''Cyrano de Bergerac," have helped keep his name at the top of the roster of American players. Richard Mansfield was born on the island of Helgoland, in the North Sea, in 1857. His father was Maurice Mansfield, and his mother, before she married, was Emma Rudersdorff, a famous opera singer. When ten years old he was sent to school in Germany, and later to the Derby School, England, where he made his first stage appearance in a schoolboy pres- entation of "The Merchant of Venice." In 1872, his mother having come to America, Richard came too, and obtained a position in a dry goods store in Boston and for a time served as musical critic on the Boston Globe. He also tried his hand at painting, and went back to England in hope of selling some of his pictures. He was unsuccessful and he soon found him- self stranded and penniless. After three years of hardship he obtained a position as a parlor entertainer, but his privations had so weakened him that he failed to do the work he had set for himself. Then he joined a provincial company playing " Pinafore," and kept this position for three years. He later ob- tained a position at the Globe Theatre, London, where he made a hit in comic operas. In 1882 he returned to America, appear- ing at the old Standard Theatre, New York. A year later the success of "A Parisian Romance " brought him into prominence. Among his successful plays may be mentioned "A Parisian Romance," " Prince Karl," " Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," " Rich- ard III," "Beau Brummel," "The Devil's Disciple," "Cyrano de Bergerac," and during the present season (1900-'01) he has been appearing with his usual success in the magnificent pro- duction of " Henry V." 10 Photo by Sarouy, New York. RICHARD MANSFIELD. MRS. FISKE. Mrs. Fiske was born in New Orleans, the daughter of Thomas Davey and Elizabeth Maddern, and in her earlier stage career took her mother's name. Her father was prominent in the South as a theatrical manager. Her mother was a daughter of Richard Maddern, an English musician, who came to this coun- try with a large family and organized a travelling concert com- pany composed of his own children. The organization was known as the Maddern family. Mrs Fiske's mother was a remarkable musician, and became a well known actress later under her husband's management. Although born to the theatre, as it were, and a figure in it since childhood, Mrs. Fiske's natural dramatic aptitudes and instincts have been disciplined and perfected by the hardest and most varied work. A sketch of her career superficially read is a lesson to the novice who expects quick recognition in the theatre. Born of parents whose lives were devoted to the stage, Mrs. Fiske made her debut as Minnie Maddern, as the Duke of York, in Richard HI. vShe played and travelled con- tinuously until fourteen, acting in a great variety of parts. At the age of sixteen, she became a star, and even then was hailed as a genius. In 1890 she married Harrison Grey Fiske, editor and proprietor of The Dramatic Mirror, and for five years was absent from the stage, only to show upon her reap- pearance, the results of study and introspection on a highly artistic temperament. From her first reappearance she stead- ily blazed a new path in dramatic art, and has come to be recog- nized as one of the most original artists of her time. Her later achievements have been won as Nora, in "A Doll's House;" Cesarine, in "La Femme de Claude;" Marie Deloche, in the play of that name from ** La Menteuse;" Madeline, in *' Love finds the Way;" Cyprienne, in ** Divorcons;" Gilberte, in " Frou-Frou," and many other plays that preceded her universal triumphs in ''Tess of the D' Ubervilles," and "Becky Sharp." 12 Photo by Thors, San Francisco. MRS. FISKE. NAT. C. GOODWIN. Born in Boston, Mr. Goodwin's first stage appearance occurred at the Boston Museum. This event brought an engage- ment at Niblo's Garden, New York, after which Goodwin ap- peared in two variety sketches — "Stage Struck," and "Home from School." His next venture was with Tony Pastor, in New York. His success with this gentleman led to his engage- ment, late in 1875, to play Captain Crosstree, in the burlesque of " Black Eyed Susan," at the Fourteenth Street Theatre, New York. Later, in conjunction with John Brougham, he assumed his first comedy part, Tom Nape, in " Sketches in India." The role of Stephen Poppincourt, in "The Little Rebel," followed. The famous burlesque, "Evangeline," was acted at the Boston Museum on July 10, 1876, Goodwin being Captain Wietrich in the cast. He then formed the Eliza Weathersby Froliques, and produced "Hobbies." This practically ended the burlesque period of Mr. Goodwin's career, for, with the production of "The Member for Slocum," in the fall of 1881, he became identified with parts, with the exception of the season of 1882-83, when he appeared as Sim Lazarus, in "The Black Flag," and the season of 1884-85, when he returned to burlesque, present- ing "Hobbies" and "Those Bells," tmtil "A Gold Mine" was brought out in 1889. Mr. Goodwin's plays during the inter- vening time were "The Skating Rink," " Little Jack Shepard," " Turned Up," and " Confusion." The summer of 1880 was spent in England, where Mr. Goodwin was well received in "A Gold Mine," and " The Book- maker." On his return to this country he produced "The Nominee," and "The Viper on the Hearth." These were fol- lowed by "Col. Tom," "Art and Nature," "A Gilded Fool," "In Mizzoura," " David Garrick," "Lend Me Five Shillings," and "Ambition." The season of 1895-'96, Mr. Goodwin spent in Australia, where he made "The Rivals" the feature of his repertoire. Later, Mr. Goodwin brought out "An American Citizen," "Nathan Hale," "The Cowboy and the Lady," and at present his greatest success, "When We Were Twenty-one." 14 Photo by Morrisou, Chicago. NAT C. GOODWIN. MAXINE ELLIOTT. Maxine Elliott declares that when she goes to Boston, she feels as if she were going home, although, as a matter of fact, that is not strictly the case. She was educated in Notre Dame Academy out in Roxbury, and is a daughter of the Pine Tree State, which gave birth to such famous singers as Emma Eames, Lillian Nordica and Annie Louise Gary. Her father was a sea captain, and after Miss ElHott was educated in Boston she went with him on a long voyage to South America and to Spain; but she was able to continue her studies while on ship board, for there was a piano in the cabin and there were many books to which she had to devote a fixed part of each day. She was sixteen years of age when she went to New York to live, and it was there she decided she would become an actress, largely because she wanted a career, and to earn a living for herself and her little sister, from whom she was never separated ^^ntil the latter made a hit in London, and accepted the offer of a British manager to remain there, as she has done. At first Miss Maxine Elliott appeared with Mr. E. S. Willard, appear- ing in "The Middle Man," "John Needham," " Fool's Para- dise," "The Professor's Love Story," and all the other of his successes. When the " Prodigal Daughter" was first staged at the American Theatre, in New York, she had a prominent part, and she also played to advantage with Rose Coghlan. Later, Augustin Daly gave her a place in his stock company and she won many honors there. She next went to San Francisco for a summer engagement with the Frawley Company. While there she received the offer to join Mr. Nat. C. Goodwin and go with him to Australia, and the two have never been separated since that time. In private life she is Mrs. Goodwin, and she and her hus- band have a delightful summer home in England. 16 Photo by Morrison. Chicago. MAXINE ELLIOTT. JOHN DREW. John Drew made his first appearance upon the stage in Philadelphia, at the Arch Street Theatre, March 23, 1873, as Plummer, in Charles Matthew's farce "Cool as a Cucumber." His mother, Mrs. John Drew, to whose name all stag^e people bow with reverence, was manager of the theatre and in charge of the stock company playing there, and it was at this house that his father, one of the best comedians and character actors this country has known, was seen in his last professional service. Mr. Drew was born in Philadelphia, in November, 1853, and received his early education there. After his professional debut, in '73, he remained in Philadelphia for two years, when he was discovered by Augustin Daly, who saw him for the first time as Major Alfred Steele, in a comedy called "Women of the Day." Mr. Daly bought the play, and produced it in New York with James Lewis in the leading part. Mr. Drew first appeared with the Daly company in February, 1875, in "The Big Bonanza." The following year he played his first Shakes- pearean role, as Rosencranz, in "Hamlet," while Edwin Booth was occupying Daly's Theatre. Two seasons were spent tour- ing the country with Fanny Davenport, and in 1879, Mr. Drew became leading man of the Daly Company, of which Ada Rehan was leading lady. From this time up to 1892, Mr. Drew played leading parts in nearly every play Daly produced, including re- vivals of several of the old comedies. Mr. Drew became a star in 1892, and since then has been seen in "The Masked Ball," his first play; Frederick Ossian, in "The Butterflies," " Christopher, Jr.," "The Bauble Shop," "A Marriage of Convenience," "One Summer's Day," "The Liars," "The Tyranny of Tears," and "Richard Carvel," the latter being his play for the season of 1900-'01. As an actor of light comedy, Mr. Drew stands in a position as individual as that possessed by his mother. A man of strict habits of integrity and personal purity, a cultured gentleman, and a true descendant of the famous " Mrs. Malaprop." 18 Photo 1)3' Saroiiy, New York. JOHN DREW. MRS. SARAH COWELL LeMOYNE. A favorite and well known actress, popular with American play-goers, both for her personal charms and her artistic ability, is Mrs. Sarah Cowell LeMoyne, wife of the celebrated veteran actor, Mr. Wm. J. LeMoyne, whose art has contributed most effectively to the fame of many of the greatest American the- atrical companies. Mrs. LeMoyne was born and bred a New Yorker and made her first appearance in professional life in Mr. A. M. Palmer's Union Square Company, in 1878. She was at this tnne a very young girl, and was at first given small parts, such as Madeline Renaud, in the prologue of "A Celebrated Case;" a Sister of Charity, in ** Lost Children;" the Marchioness, in "French Flats;" and a maid, in "The Banker's Daughter." In "The Danicheffs," which was first produced in Chicago, Mr. Palmer gave her the part of the old woman, in which she made quite an unex- pected hit. Mrs. LeMoyne did not like this part, however, and when the company returned to New York, she asked Mr. Palmer to give her another, which he refused to do. They had a dif- ference on the subject, the outcome of which was, that Mrs. LeMoyne left the company, and also theatrical life until Febru- ary, 1898. Mr. Palmer is now one of the several people who claim to have discovered Mrs. LeMoyne. After leaving Mr. Palmer's company, in which she had been two years, she became a public reader, and, as her income from this work was more than sufficient for her needs, there was no particular incentive for her return to the stage. Two seasons ago, however (1898), when they were casting "The Moth and the Flame" at the Lyceum Theatre, New York, Mr. Fitch, the author, gave her the part of Mrs. Lorrimer. Since then she has played the mother, in "Catherine;" Mrs. Bryant, in "The Greatest Thing in the World;" Margaret, Duchess of Maldon, and Madge, in Zangwill's play, "The Moment of Death; or The Never Never Land;" and the Queen, in Robert Browning's " In a Balcony." 20 Photo by Diipotit, New YorJc. MRS. LeMOYNE. WILLIAM GILLETTE. One of the best known author actors, both in this country and in Eng-land, is WilHam Gillette, a native of Hr.rtford, Con- necticut, being born there July 24, 1855. He is the descendant of a very old and highly respected family, the son of Francis and Elizabeth Dagget Hooker Gillette. Mr. Gillette was edu- cated at the district school of his native city, and later attended the universities of New York and Boston. He made his professional debut, at the age of twenty, at New Orleans in the play "Across the Continent." He has also been seen in **The Professor," "Esmeralda," " The Private Secretary," " Held by the Enemy," " Mr. Wilkinson's Widows," "All the Comforts of a Home," "A Legal Wreck," "Too Much Johnson," " Secret Service," "Because She Loved Him So," and during the season of 1900-'01 appeared with great success in the title role of " Sherlock Holmes." Although Mr. Gillette has proved a great success as " Sher- lock Holmes," he will not surpass his success previously made in "Secret Service," a play from his own pen. "Secret Ser- vice" had a long and successful run in America, and, on May 5, 1897, Mr. Gillette took it to London, opening at the Adel- phi Theatre, where it made a triumph, and every member of the cast an individual success. It remained at the Adelphi Theatre four weeks, and was then transferred to the Comedy Theatre, and after five weeks there, was returned to the Adel- phi for three weeks, when it was necessary to return to Amer- ica to fill engagements. Mr. Gillette is rather eccentric, and, queer as it may seem, prefers a life of solitude to the one of publicity which he is now leading, and his ideal home is a little country place with no communication with the outside world. 22 ■.-.:# Photo by Warner, Hartford. WILLIAM GILLETTE. MRS. LESLIE CARTER. Mrs. Leslie Carter was born at Lexington, Ky., on a large plantation owned by her father, whose name was Dudley, a descendant of a very old and highly respected family bearing that name. Mrs. Carter, or Dolly as she was called by her father, remained at home studying under a governess until after her marriage. Meeting with a great trouble, both financially and other- wise, she decided to adopt the stage as a means of livelihood, although she never had any training or former desire for this work. Calling upon Mr. David Belasco at Echo Lake, she poured forth her story and her desire to that gentleman, who being very much taken with her appearance, and noting her sonorous and pliable voice and her dramatic intuition and emo- tional force, promised to give her the necessary training that is most essential in the making of a great emotional actress like Mrs. Carter. Mrs. Carter entered at once upon a course of training that has absorbed her life, and one that would certainly appall the young woman of to-day who goes upon the stage with a trunk full of fine clothes and who aspires to become famous in a season. In her long years of study Mrs. Carter went through the Shakespearean repertoire and studied every role that is recog- nized as classic upon the English stage. After six years of study she made her debut at the Broadway Theatre, New York, in " The Ugly Duckling " and in the following year she appeared as Miss Helyett, the Quakeress. Mrs. Carter is perhaps best remembered in *' The Heart of Maryland " in which she appeared with great success both in this country and in England. For the past two seasons she has been starring in the title role of ** Zaza," by Mr. Belasco, who also is the author of *' The Heart of Maryland" and who has always been Mrs. Carter's manager. 24 Photo by Sarony, New York. MRS. CARTER. JAMES O'NEILL. James O'Neill possesses, beyond his magnetic personality, a life story full of interest. He was born in Ireland about forty- eight years ago, and has won his way from poverty to a posi- tion of influence and wealth. Most of his youth was spent in Cincinnati, and his parents designed that he should enter the priesthood. The imaginative boy chose the stage, and when he was seventeen played a part in the old National Theatre, in Cincinnati. He obtained a position as an extra in Edw4n Forrest's company, where he had the dignified task of carrying a spear. Two years afterwards, however, he played Icilpus to Mr. Forrest's Virginius. His success on the stage was then assured. He became leading man at Hooley's Theatre, and afterwards of McVicker's Stock Company, of the Union Square Theatre, in New York. It was in these days that he appeared with Adelaide Neilson, and made the beginning of his national reputation. At this time Mr. O'Neill was twenty-two years of age, and for the next few years he supported Mr. Booth, alter- nating witk that great player in the leading role of the great tragedies, as Barrett did later. The most notable incident of his career in recent years was in connection with the elaborate production of Salmi Motne's "Passion Play," at the Baldwin Theatre, San Francisco. Herein Mr. O'Neill was cast for the Saviour, and though at first entering upon it most reluctantly, for he is a conscientious churchman, he finally essayed the role and created a profound impression by his masterful portrayal of the rare character. Enormous offers were made to the Pacific coast managers for a New York production of the " Passion Play," but various impediments, not the least of which was an aroused public sen- timent against the production, discouraged the enterprise. Since that time Mr. O'Neill has devoted himself to the classic repertoire, interspersed with "Monte Cristo," " Fontenello," and other romantic plays. Hf^ appearance in New York last year as D' Artajgnan, was greeted with cordial interest. This year he is the centre of the monster production of "Monte Cristo," which Leibler Sc C'o. produced at the Boston Theatre. 26 Photo by Hunger, Cleveland. JAMES O'NEILL. EDNA MAY. The rise of Edna May to professional distinction has been unusual. A few years ag^o she was a schoolgirl in Syracuse known as Edna Petty, the daughter of E. C. Petty, a letter carrier. When she was sixteen years old she went to New York to study singing and dancing, intending to go upon the stage after finish- ing her studies. Nature had been very kind to her in giving her a very charming and winning personality and a most gracious presence, and it was not long before she was engaged for White's Farcical Comedy Company and appeared in Charles H. Hoyt's "A Contented Woman," in which she was quite successful. But Miss May will perhaps best be remembered both in this country and in England, as Violet Grey, the salvation army lassie, in "The Belle of New York." In this role she made one of the greatest successes ever made by a prima-donna. She became a great favorite in London, and was fairly loaded down with attentions and gifts. When " The Belle of New York" closed, after a run of eighty-five weeks. Miss May appeared in an operetta entitled *'An American Beauty," which was produced in London by an American company. With all of Miss May's substantial personal advantages she naturally became very available material as a star, and it is not surprising that Mr. Frohman made her in some respects the pivotal i)oint of his recent venture, ** The Girl From Up There;" a piece which had quite a long and prosperous run at the Herald Square Theatre, New York, during the season of 1900-'01, and which has more recently been presented at the Duke of York's Theatre, London. The accompanying engraving of Miss May is as Olga, the Ice Maiden, in '* The Girl From Up There." 28 Photo by Dinturff, Syracuse. EDNA MAY. WILLIAM H. CRANE. One of the g^reatest favorites on the American stage, who has won his way to the top by hard study and hard work, is William H. Crane, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Crane is the son of A. B. and W. S. Crane, of Leicester, Mass. He was born in Leicester, April 30, 1845. After attend- ing the Brimmer School, of Boston, Mr. Crane entered profes- sional life when at the age of eighteen. His first appearance was at Utica, N. Y., as LeBlanc, the notary, in "The Child of the Regiment," under the management of Mrs. Harriet Holman. For eight years he remained with that company continuously, after which he was with the Oates Opera Company at Chicago. After the appearance of **Our Boarding House," at the Park Theatre, New York, the famous Robson-Crane partnership was formed, which produced many successes, notably among which was "The Henrietta," and "The Two Dromios," in Shakespeare's "Comedy of Errors." This partnership termi- nated in September, 1889, since when Mr. Crane, as an individ- ual star, has produced with success "On Probation," "The Senator," "For Money," "The American Minister," "Brother John," and "David Harum," the latter of which, being the dramatization of a popular novel, has proved an unusual success. In a recent interview Mr. Crane said: "Am still at it, and hope to be as long as the public wants me;" and, judging from the great hit he made in " David Harum," he is likely to remain on the stage indefinitely. 30 Copyrighted by Klnier Chickering:. Boston. WM. H. CRANE. MAUDE ADAMS. Miss Maude Adams is a lineal descendant of the well known Adams family of Quincy, Massachusetts. She is the daughter of Annie Adams, known on the stag^e as Mrs. Adams, and her father's name was Kiskadden, a well known business man of Salt Lake City, Utah. Her greatg^randfather was Joshua Adams, a cousin of John Quincy Adams, the fifth president of the United States. Miss Adams was bom in Salt Lake City, in November, 1872. Her schooling was principally received on the stage, under the guardianship of her mother, although she attended the schools at San Francisco at intervals. Her first appearance on the stage was when at the age of nine months, in a play called "The Lost Child," in which her mother was appearing at that time. She was with J. K. Emmett in "Our Fritz," playing the part of little Schneider, and also appeared in a number of child's roles. When fifteen years of age she was with her mother as a member of the Alcazar Theatre Company of San Francisco. Miss Adams was with E. H. Sothern's company, which was under the management of Chas. Frohman. She appeared in "A Lost Paradise," creating the character of Nellie, and later with Chas. Hoyt's "A Midnight Bell," playing the part of the minister's sister. Dot Bradbury. Miss Adams then became leading lady with John Drew, appearing with him in "The Masked Ball," "Butterflies," "Christopher, Jr.," "A Bauble Shop," and "Rosemary." Miss Adams is perhaps best known as Lady Babby, in J. M. Barrie's play "The Little Minister." This season she has been appearing as L'Aiglon, in the play of that name, with great success. 32 Photo by Fowler, Evauston, 111. MAUDE ADAMS. STUART ROBSON. Mr. Henry Stuart Robson is a veteran of the dramatic stage who is admired for his art, which has contributed most effectively to the fame of many of the greatest of American theatrical companies, and who is loved for his personal qualities. Mr. Robson was born at Annapolis, Maryland, March 4, 1836, and is the son of Mr. Charles Robson of that city. As is wont with most boys he attended the district school in his native town and later went to the St. John's College, also of Annapolis. Mr. Robson's first appearance on the stage was in 1851, when but fifteen years of age, in an Uncle Tom's Cabin com- pany, but his first great success was not until 1870, when he appeared as Captain Crosstree, in the burlesque of '' Black Eyed Susan." He was seen in a number of successes for the next seven years, when the great Robson-Crane partnership was formed (1877), which produced such notable successes as **Our Boarding House," organized revivals of "The Comedy of Errors," and the ''Merry Wives of Windsor," and last but not least, "The Henrietta," probably the most phenomenally suc- cessful play of modern times, and one that will be long remembered. Since separating from Mr. Crane, in 1889, Mr. Robson has successfully revived "The Comedy of Errors," playing Dro- mio of Syracuse, and "She Stoops to Conquer," playing Tony Lumpkin. For the past two seasons Mr. Robson has been seen in the title role of "Oliver Goldsmith." In 1892 Mr. Robson married Miss Mary Waldron, of Chicago, who has been seen with her husband in a number of his successes. 34 Photo bv Moore. New ui icaiis STUART ROBSON. ANNIE RUSSELL. Although still a young actress, Miss Annie Russell is recognized as one of the greatest. She was born in Liverpool, England, in 1864, but at an early age moved with her family to Canada. Her first appearance on the stage was in Montreal, when at the age of eight with Rose Eytinge, in a play called "Miss Multon." Her next appearance was in a juvenile "Pinafore" production, under the management of Mr. Haverly. She was with that company for two years, first in the chorus, and then singing "Josephine." After leaving Mr. Haverly, she obtained a:i engagement with E. A. McDowell to play in South America and the West Indies, appearing in a most varied repertoire. When she returned to America, she made her first important appearance at Madison Square Theatre, New York, in the title role of " Es- meralda," while still a very young girl. She appeared in this part about nine hundred times, and later appeared as Hazel Kirke, Fusha Leach, in "Moths;" Maggie, in Gilbert's "Engaged;" Lady Vavir, in "Broken Hearts;" Sylvia, in "Our Society;" Mabel, in "Captain Swift;" as Elaine, in "Elaine," which, by the way, was almost as great a success as was "Esmeralda;" Miss Hobbs, in " Miss Hobbs;" and is now appearing with great success in "A Royal Family." Miss Russell has won her way to success most rapidly, which is due for the most part to her hard studyx and ambition. She is a young actress of pleasing personality, and much be- loved by theatre goers. 36 Photo by Rose & Sauds, Providence. ANNIE RUSSELL. JAMES K. HACKETT. James K. Ha'ckett was born Sept. 6, 1869, at Wolf Island, Ontario, Canada. Though born on Canadian soil, Mr. Hackett is a natural born citizen under the laws of the United States, because his father and mother were both Americans and were simply travelling in Canada at the time. Mr. Hackett went through the public schools of New York City and was graduated from Grammar School 69, in the class of 1886. He entered the college of the city of New York, and was graduated from that institution in 1891, taking the degree of B. A. He then entered the New York law school, where he remained but a short time. While attending this school he determined not to enter the practice of law but to go upon the stage. He made his debut in A. M. Palmer's old stock company, in March, 1892. He made rapid progress, and was next engaged by Lotta to play her leads. After working hard for several seasons under different managements, Mr. Hackett made his first big New York success in *' Madame Sans Gene," which had a; very long run at the Broadway Theatre. After this en- gagement, Mr. Hackett was the leading man in a Kansas City stock company, and at the end of that engagement played Anthony, in ''Anthony and Cleopatra," but soon resigned that position to accept one in Augustin Daly's stock company in New York. He staid with that organization during the autumn season, but, owing to a disagreement with Mr. Daly, Mr. Hackett resigned from his company. Shortly afterward he appeared under the Frohman management, and has starred in such successful plays as "The Prisoner of Zenda," "Rupert of Hentzaw," "The Late Mr. Costello," but the greatest of all his successes has been in "The Pride of Jennico," which had a run of 175 nights in New York. 38 Photo bv Burr Mcintosh. New York. JAMES K. HACKETT. MARY MANNERING. Some of the best lights of the theatrical profession twinkle in obscurity for years before their brilliancy attracts the gen- eral attention, while others, more fortunate, in a few seasons become popular favorites. Among the latter is Mary Manner- ing, whose genuine art, vivacity and versatility have won for her a prominent place among the notable actresses of the day. She was born in London, England, April 29, 1876, and the daughter of Richard and Florence Friend. In England she was known on the stage as Florence Friend. She received her education in private school, and had a governess at her home. She was not quite sixteen years of age when she made her first appearance on the stage with Mrs. James Brown Potter and Kyrle Bellew, in "Hero and Leander," which was produced at the Shaftesbury Theatre, London. Miss Mannering had been acting in the English provinces about seven years, when she was engaged by Mr. Daniel Froh- man to play leading parts in his Lyceum Theatre Company. Her first appearance in this country was in a play called **The Courtship of Leonie," since which she has been seen in '' Sow- ing the Wind," "The Late Mr. Costello," " John Myerfield," "Trelawney of the Wells," and "Janice Meredith." She as- sumed the title role in "Janice Meredith," in which she has made a most pronounced hit, even surpassing her former suc- cess as Rose Trelawney, in "Trelawney of the Wells." In private life Miss Mannering is the wife of James K. Hackett, the well known American actor, to whom she was married in 1897. 40 Photo by Morrison, Chicago. MARY MANNERING, JAMES A. HERNE. James A. Herne commenced his theatrical career over forty years ago in a typical provincial stock company of that day, at Troy, N. Y. He was the leading juvenile of the com- pany. He next joined the then Lyceum Theatre Stock Company, at Albany, where he really commenced his dramatic career. For the next few years Mr. Herne was a member of some of the best known stock companies of the country, chief among which were the John Ellsler Company in Cleveland, the California Theatre Stock Company in San Francisco, and at the Grand Opera House in New York, under the management of James Fiske, Jr. It was about this time that the stock system was merging into the travelling system, and Mr. Herne threw in his lot with the innovators, and "went on the road," supporting such great actors as the elder Booth, Ristori, Forrest, E. L. Davenport and Charlotte Cushman. The starring policy had now commenced with great activ- ity, and Mr. Herne cast about for a play with the object of an independent venture as a star. He was at San Francisco at the time (1872), when he met David Belasco, and being inspired by him, Mr. Herne wrote his first play, "Hearts of Oak." The play failed at first, but afterwards made a fortune for Mr. Herne. Mr. Heme's career from now on is a record of great brilliancy both as a dramatic author and as an active player. His original plays, — " Drifting Apart," "The Minute Men of '76," and "Margaret Flemming" were written and produced within a few seasons, and the latter work won him the highest praise of the best critics of the country. Mr. Heme's next play was " Shore Acres," and though a complete failure at first, it finally became a great success. "Griffith Davenport" was Mr. Heme's next play; and his last dramatic work, " Sag Har- bor," is at present holding the boards with its author as its star. Mr. Herne died June 2, 1901, which was after this sketch had been prepared. 4L' Photo by Baker, Columbus, O. JAMES A. HERNE. ADA REHAN. Miss Ada Rehan was born in Limerick, Ireland, April 22, 1860. She came to America with her family, whose name is Crehan, when she was five years old. The first part played by Miss Rehan was that of Clara, in Oliver Doud Byron's play, "Across the Continent," in May, 1873. In this small part her readiness and talent as a player were first revealed. Her first appearance on the New York stage was made a little later in the same year at Wood's Museum. There she played a small part in a piece called " Thoroughbred." During the seasons of 1873, '74 and '75, she was associated with the Arch Street Theatre Stock Company, in Philadelphia, that being her first regular professional engagement. Miss Rehan then went to McCaulay's Theatre, Louisville, where she acted for one season. From Louisville she went to Albany as a member of John W. Al- baugh's company, where she remained two seasons. The earlj^ part of her career involved professional endeavors in company with noted stars, such as Edwin Booth, Adelaide Neilson, John MacCullough, Mrs. Bowers, Lawrence Barrett, Mrs. Lander, and John T. Raymond. September 17, 1870, the present Daly's Theatre was opened and Miss Rehan made her first appearance there in the part of Nellie Beers in a play called '* Love's Young Dream." From that time until Mr. Daly's death Miss Rehan remained the leading lady at Daly's Theatre, and there she became one of the most admired women on the contemporary stage. After Mr. Daly's death, Miss Rehan selected Klaw and Erlanger as her managers, and under their management has been appearing with great success as Nell Gwynn, in Paul Kester's comedy drama, " Sweet Nell of Old Drury." Those who would adequately estimate Ada Rehan' s versa- tility have only to consider the list of parts played by her, ranging from Rosalind to Tilburina, from Viola to Lady Gay Spanker, from Oriana to Miss Hoyden, from Katherine to Nisbe, from Meg Merrilies to Miranda, — almost every contrast of per- sonality and dramatic style. There is a deep feeling beneath the luminous and sparkling surface of Ada Rehan's art, but it is chiefly with mirth that she has touched the public heart. 44 Photo by Sarony, New York. ADA RERAN. E. H. SOTHERN. The career of Edward H. Sothern as an actor has not been all "beer and skittles," but marked with many ups and downs, in which the downs predominated almost up to the time he became a star. Born in New Orleans, December 6, 1859, son of E. A. Sothern, the famous English comedian, he was taken to England where he was educated, his father intending him for a painter. In 1875 he returned to America and four years later made his professional debut at Abbey's Park Theatre, New York, as the cabman in "Sam," which his father was playing. In 1881 his father died and Mr. Sothern went to England, remaining there a year, when his mother too passed away. He travelled through the British provinces with his brother Lytton, and in 1883 returned to America, poor in pocket but rich in hope. He was compelled, however, to join the Mac- Cullough Company to play minor roles. The tragic end to MacCullough's career came shortly after, and Mr. Sothern was again thrown upon his own resources. After much difficulty he succeeded in producing his farce, "Whose are They?" at a police benefit in Baltimore, and later in Brooklyn and New York. It failed shortly, and once more he was at a loss, until Harrison and Gourley bought his play from him at $500.00, and they lost money on it. Mr. Sothern was then engaged by Mr. Charles Frohman, and in 1886 his fortunes began to take an upward turn. During the season of 1887-88 he brought out "Editha's Burglar," with Elsie Leslie as Editha. Then came "Lord Chumley," which was at once successful. His fame as a romantic actor began with the "Prisoner of Zenda," and since that was first produced he has appeared in "An Enemy to the King," "Change Alley," "The Adventures of Lady Ursula," "A Colonial Girl," "The King's Musketeers," "The Sunken Bell," and last season his magnificent revival of "Hamlet" is one of the important bits of theatrical history of the last quarter century. In 1896 Mr. Sothern married Miss Virginia Harned who for several seasons has been his leading lady. 46 Photo by Sarony, New York. E. H. SOTHERN, VIRGINIA HARNED. Miss Virginia Harned, who has for quite a number of years been prominently identified with Mr. E. H. Sothern's company, is by birth a Bostonian. She made her first profes- sional appearance, when she was sixteen years old, with George Clark, who was then starring, and appeared as Lady Despar in ''The Corsican Brothers." She afterwards travelled with sev- eral small repertoire companies. It was during- her engagement with one of these small companies that Mrs. Fernadez, the dra- matic agent, happened in at a performance they were giving in an out-of-the-way place and was much impressed by the work of Miss Harned. After the performance Mrs. Fernadez sought out Miss Harned and told her to call upon her at the close of the season. Upon her return to New York the dramatic agent told Mr. Daniel Frohman of her find, and the next season Miss Harned was installed a member of Mr. Frohman' s company, — engaging her to support Mr. E. H. Sothern, in "The Master of Woodburrow." Ever since then she has been leading lady with Mr. Sothern, giving him brilliant support in all his productions, a few of which have been, — " The Prisoner of Zenda," "An Ene- my to the King," "The Adventures of Lady Ursula," "A Colo- nial Girl," "The King's Musketeers," and "Hamlet." In this latter named play they have been starring during the present season (1900-'01) and in which they have been most successful. It was also during the present season that Miss Harned made her debut as a star, presenting "Camille." In her interpreta- tion of "Camille," while free from all coarseness, is a picture of womanly wretchedness that touches her audiences deeply. In private life Miss Harned is the wife of Mr. E. H. Soth- ern to whom she was married in 1896. 48 Photo bj- Sarony, New York. VIRGINIA HARNED. HERBERT KELCEY. Herbert Kelcey, whose family name is Lamb, comes of good old English stock. He was born in London, October 10, 1855, and being the eldest son, was destined for the army. Feeling that the life of a soldier would be rather tame, and prompted chiefly by a spirit of adventure, he joined a provincial company, and in 1877 made his debut at Brighton, England, in "Flirtation," and was a success. His first prominent London engagement was in "Youth," which was produced at the Drury Lane Theatre, August 6, 1881. A year later he came to Amer- ica, and appeared first at Wallack's in "Taken from Life." This was on September 9, 1882. In 1884 he became a member of the Madison Square Company, playing Cheviot Hill, in " En- gaged;" Edward Warburton, in "Old Love Letters;" Philip Van Pelt, in "Our Society," and many other parts. He joined Wallack's company two years later, remaining there only a year, after which he became a member of the New York Lyceum Company. His first appearance" with the Lyceum Company was as John Rutherford, in "The Wife," in 1887. In the fall of 1896, he appeared with Mrs. Leslie Carter in "The Heart of Mary- land," helping to make this rather jumbled Belasco play success- ful. He was cast for the role of Edward Fletcher, in "The Moth and the Flame," with Mrs. LeMoyne as Mrs. Lorrimer. This was an entirely new line of work for him, but he made a complete success in the .part and gave to it even a more subtle meaning than Mr. Clyde Fitch, the author, intended. Last season he appeared with Miss Effie Shannon as co-star in " My Lady Dainty," a bright, wholesome drama from the pen of Madeline Lucette Ryley. In this play both Mr. Kelcey and Miss Shannon have kept fully up to their high standard and the piece made one of the substantial hits of the season. 50 Photo by Rose & Sands. Providence. HERBERT KELCEY EFFIE SHANNON. Effie May Shannon, who has been associated with Her- bert Kelcey duringf the past few years, is a Boston girl with more than ordinary talent and a charm of face and manner hard to surpass. Born within sig^ht of Massachusetts' capitol, her early life was spent in the Hub, where she attended school and played on the famous Common. At the rather early age of seven she made her debut in "Coriolanus," in the city of her birth, but history has not recorded the degree of success at- tained in this first venture into what most find to be an extreme- ly uncertain profession. Being inoculated at so early an age with the virus of stage-land, Miss Shannon could not resist the temptation to become really a professional, and while still in her teens joined a dramatic company and had an uncomfortable time for several years. Her efforts to gain a foothold in the profession were at first deserving of pity, though now she can afford to laugh at her troubles. After being buffeted about the country with a party of theatrical tourists, playing small parts and living as best she could, she heard of a vacancy in Daly's company for a young girl, and some of her friends urged her to apply for the place. Dressed becomingly through the combined assistance of these friends, she made her appearance before Mr. Daly, — pleased him by her ingenuousness and beauty and obtained the position. She was so delighted that she ran all the way back to her friends and they celebrated the engagement with a banquet of crackers, cheese, and pickles. From this start Miss Shannon's rise was rapid and she shortly found her- self featured. Her first most important part was in " The Moth and the Flame" and divided the honors with Mr. Herbert Kel- cey in making a rather mediocre piece successful. During the past season she has been co-star with Mr. Kelcey in a delight- ful comedy entitled "My Lady Dainty," and more recently has been seen with Mr. Kelcey in " Manon Lescaut." 52 Photo by Rose & Sands. Providence. EFFIE SHANNON. OTIS SKINNER. The subject of this sketch, Mr. Otis Skinner, was born at Cambridge, Massachusetts, June 28, 1857. He is the son of the Rev. Charles E. Skinner, who was formerly pastor bf the First Universalist Church of Cambridge, and later of Someirville. Mr. Skinner moved to Hartford, Connecticut, at an earlt age, and it was in that city that he received his education at the old Brown School, on Market Street. After leaving school lie be- came a clerk in a commission house in Hartford but soonj gave up that position to go upon the stage. He had gained' some local fame as an amateur reader and actor and made his first professional appearance at the Philadelphia Museum, in Novem- ber, 1877. His first part was Jim, an old negro servant, in a play entitled " Woodleigh," by Philip Stoner. He then loined the Walnut Street Theatre Stock Company in support of a! num- ber of the famous stars of that day. j In 1879 he made his New York debut in Kiralfy's *' Enchant- ment" at Niblo's Theatre. The following year he was at Booth's Theatre, after which he went to the Boston Theatre, and then followed three years with Mr, Lawrence Barrett, acting Marc Antony, Cassio, Gratiano and a number of other prominent parts. After his engagement with Mr. Barrett he was for five years with Augustin Daly's company. His first appearance at Daly's was in 1884, in ''The Wooden Spoon." In 1892 he be- came leading man in Madame Modjeska's company appearing in a large number of roles in that famous actress' repertoire. Since 1894 Mr. Skinner has been starring, appearing in a large num- ber of successes the latest of which is in the title role of ''Prince Otto." Mr. Skinner was married to Miss Maud Durbin in 1895. She has appeared in a number of roles in her husband's com- pany. Mr. Skinner holds the honorary degree of Master of Arts which was given him by Tufts College. 54 Photo by Windeatt, Chicago. OTIS SKINNER. ALICE NEILSEN. This young- lady, one of the later comers into the ranks of high class comic opera, and one who has attained a position to be envied, is Southern born and educated, and made her first appear- ance on the stage in a western State. Her parents, Erasmus I. and Sarah A. Neilsen, lived in Nashville, Tenn., where the young prima-donna was born in 1875. She was educated in the public schools at first, later completing her education in a con- vent, where she received much of her musical training. At an early age her voice began to be noticed for its clearness and delicacy, and when she made her debut as Yum Yum, in "Mi- kado," at Oakland, California, in 1893, there was little doubt as to her future success. Her early professional years were spent near the Pacific coast where she has always been a favorite, and when she went East success followed her and she made many friends everywhere. Miss Neilsen is best known, however, as having the prima- donna roles in "The Fortune Teller," and "The Singing Girl," in both of which operas she has been successful beyond the usual experience of light opera singers. In " The Fortune Teller," she made her appearance as a star, though since her debut she has always had the good fortune to be featured. For her work in " The Singing Girl" she has been praised unstintedly, not only forher beautiful vo^'ce, but for the grace and manner she possesses. This opera was rather a departure from conventional lines, and Miss Neilsen entered so into the spirit* of it that her name will probably be associated with the piece as long as it is remem- bered. The coming season (1901-'02) she expects to appear in a new opera, "The Chaperones," the book of which is by Fred Rankin and the music by Isadore Witmark. 56 Photo bv Rose ^: Sands. Provideuce. ALICE NEILSEX DeWolf hopper. William DeWolf Hopper, for a long time one of the most popular among comedians devoting" their talents to comic opera and farce comedy, is the son of John Hopper and Rosalie De- Wolf, of New York city, where William first saw light of day, March 30, 1862. He received his education at the district school, New York, and later attended Mr. J. H. Morse's school, besides studying vocal music under private tutors. Mr. Hopper made his first professional appearance when at the age of twenty, in **Our Boys," at New Haven, Connecticut. Mr. Daniel Frohman afterwards gave him a prominent part in his Madison Square Company, where he played Pittacus Green, in *' Hazel Kirke," in which he made a success, and was given many other prominent roles with the same company. After severing his connection with Mr. Frohman, he joined Col. John A. McCauU's Company, where he continued to advance in pub- lic favor as a comic opera star. For a number of years Mr. Hopper was seen at the head of his own company, w^here he created many characters, and proved himself to be as successful a manager as he is an actor. Mr. Hopper will probably be remembered best in the title role of "Wang;" as Pedro, in" Panjandrum," and in " ElCapitan," although he has appeared in many roles which were equally successful. For the past season, Mr. Hopper has been with Weber & Field's at their New York Music Hall. In the summer of 1893 he married Miss Edna Wallace, who will also be remembered in "Panjandrum." Mr. Hopper is a well known club man, and is a member of several fraternities, being a member of A. F. & A. M. Lodge, Mystic Shrine, I. O. O. F., and Royal Arcanum. 58 Photo by Morrison, Chicago. Dkwolf hopper. LULU GLASER. In a few years Miss Glaser has won, by hard work and nat- ural ability, a prominent position as a comic opera star. Miss Glaser was born in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, June 2, 1874. She attended the grammar schools in her native city, and dis- played great adaptability for learning both her studies and music. It was when but sixteen years of age that she made her debut with Francis Wilson, in " The Lion Tamer," at the Broad- way Theatre, New York. She was with Mr. Wilson continually from that time on, until the past season. During her engagement with Mr. Wilson, she played Angelina, in ''The Lion Tamer;" Pierrett, in " Half a King;" and Gavotte, in ** Erminie;" and in the latter made an especial hit, quite as much so as had Miss Marie Jansen formerly. Miss Glaser has always enjoyed half the honors while with Mr. Wilson, but she was ambitious and desir- ous of further honors, and she has this season been starring alone in the title role of the new opera "Sweet Ann Page." The piece itself was not a great success, and after a tour of a few weeks the company was disbanded. More recently Miss Glaser appeared in the title role of the " Prima-Donna," at the Herald Square Theatre, New York. Miss Mabelle Gilman was previously cast for this role but was taken sick and unable to appear, and after two or three postponements of the piece it was opened on April 16, 1901, and with Miss Glaser in the title role. Miss Glaser has a pleasing personality, is a good singer, and is much beloved by theatre goers in general. 60 Photo by Morrison, Chicago. LULU GLASER. JOHN E. DODSON. Mr. John E, Dodson has long been known as a capable actor and leading^ man. It was not long after his entrance into the profession that his good work in minor roles brought him advancement, and earned him popular favor in important roles. He was born in London, England, September 25, 1859, and is the son of Henry and Elizabeth Dodson. He received his early education in a private school, and later attended Hunt Col- lege, graduating from that institution with high honors. He made his debut at the early age of eighteen, in a play en- titled **The Spelling Bee," at the old Princess Theatre, Man- chester, England. Mr. Dodson is an actor of fine presence, and of perfect art, which will readily be acknowledged by all who have had the pleasure of seeing him in such notable successes as "The Second Mrs. Tanqueray," "The Iron Master," "Weaker Sex," "Twins," "Magistrate," "The Schoolmistress," "Scrap of Paper," "Marriage," " Under the Red Robe," and "Because She Loved Him So." Recently he has been appearing in the larger vaudeville houses with his usual success. In fraternal circles, he is a member of the A. F. & A. M. 62 Photo bv Saronv, New York. J. E. DODSON BLANCHE WALSH. This popular favorite has made herself a prominent place among- the actresses whose forte is found in emotional roles. She -was born in New York, January 4, 1873, and is the daughter of Thomas and Minnie Savorie Walsh. Miss Walsh made her debut on the professional stage at the age of sixteen, with Marie Wainwright, as Olivia in " Twelfth Night." She remained with Miss Wainwright for three seasons, and then joined Mr. Chas. Frohman, and created the part of Diana Stockton in Mr. Bronson Howard's "Aristocracy," produced at Palmer's Theatre, New York City, September, 1892 ; she played in this two seasons and then played Kate Kennion in " The Girl I Left Behind Me," and on January 1st, 1895, Miss Walsh joined Nat. C. Goodwin, play- ing Margaret, in ''A Gilded Fool;" Kate, in "Mizzouri;" Ada Ingot, in " David Garick;" Annie Harrington, in " The Nominee;" the Hon. Mrs. Meredith, in ''The Gold Mine;" and Mrs. Major Phobbs, in " Lend Me Five Shillings." Then came a season of summer stock in Washington, after which she went under the management of A. M. Palmer and created the part of the adventuress, Mrs. Bulford, in " The Great Diamond Robbery." She later assumed the part of "Trilby," and then rejoined Mr. Goodwin, sailing with him to Australia, playing all the parts she had previously played in America. Miss Walsh is a remarkably quick study, having on several occasions demonstrated this fact, two of which are worthy of mention ; in August, 1895, with only two hours' notice, and with- out a rehearsal, Miss Walsh played the role of Trilby in the original company, and won high praise for her successful accom- plishment of a difficult task ; again Miss Walsh played Edith Vamey, m ** Secret Service," after seeing one production of the play, and having one rehearsal. Miss Walsh has also been in such emotional plays as Fedora, La Tosca, Gismonda, and Cleopatra. 64 Photo by Schloss, New York. BLANCHE WALSH. IDA CONQUEST. It was during- the time that ''Pinafore" was the rage that Miss Ida Conquest made her first appearance in the Boston Museum juvenile production of that well known opera, in which she ap- peared over three hundred times in the role of Little Buttercup. Her first appearance as a professional actress was with Alexan- der Salvini, in 1892, as Isobel, in "Rohan the Silent," at the Tremont Theatre, Boston. After her success with Mr. Salvini, Miss Conquest was engfaged by A. M. Palmer, and later was under the management of Mr. Daniel Frohman, appearing as PhylHs Lee, in "The Charity Ball;" Sybil, in "The Dancing Girl;" Andry Carey, in "Alabama." She became a member of Charles Frohman's Empire Theatre Company in 1895, appearing in a number of his successes, notably among which are " Bohe- mia," "The Benefit of a Doubt," "Liberty Hall," "Marriage," "Under the Red Robe," and "The Conquerors." After sever- ing her connection with this company, she appeared with Mr. William Gillette, during his London success in "Too Much Johnson." In 1898 she appeared in another of Mr. Gillette's plays, entitled " Because She Loved Him So," creating the part of the jealous wife. Last season she appeared with John Drew and Isabel Irving in the succesful comedy "The Tyranny of Tears," and during the present season is with John Drew as his leading lady. Miss Conquest is by birth a Bostonian, and the daughter of Mr. Thomas Conquest, a well known merchant of that city. 66 Photo bv Sarony. New York. IDA CONQUEST. RICHARD GOLDEN. A well known and old time favorite on the American stage is Mr. Richard Golden, a son of Patrick and Matilda Golden, of Bangor, Maine, where Richard was born July 6, 1854. He re- ceived his education at the district schools and under private tutors. When about thirteen years old young Richard ran away from home and joined a theatrical company which was playing ** Fashion," and was given a part impersonating a servant. His next venture was with the International Circus, in 1867. The following year found him still with the same circus doing a song and dance turn. In 1869, he joined Sam Sharpley's Iron Clad Minstrels and he served his time with the best of them in that branch of the show business. In 1875, Mr. Golden secured Henry Dixey as an associate, and joined "Evangeline," under Edward E. Rice. The next year he danced in the " Heifer " (the hind legs), and created the Irish Policeman. He followed Mr. Nat. C. Goodwin, as LeBlanch, in ** Evangeline," in 1877, and was seen in all the big ''Evangeline" casts, appearing with Crane, Goodwin, Maffett, Edowin, Sol Smith Russell and others. Mr. Golden has played the full line of burlesque, and joined the ranks of comic opera in 1878, creating many of the impor- tant leading roles in that line long before Wilson, Hopper, or Bell came into it. In 1889, Mr. Golden created "Old Jed Prouty," his greatest of all successes and the one which he likes best. He has played the part nearly two thousand times and is still playing it. The part Mr. Golden likes next best to that of Old Jed is the Marquis, in "The Merry War," which he played four hundred times, and LeBlanch more than three hun- dred times. In fraternal circles Mr. Golden is a Mason, being a member of Munn Lodge, No. 190, of New York. 68 Photo by Miner, New York. RICHARD GOLDEN. ELEANOR ROBSON. Miss Robson. daughter of Madge Carr Cooke, made her first professional appearance at the CaHfomia Theatre, San Francisco, with the Frawley Company on September 13, 1897. She essayed, upon that occasion, the role of Margery Knox, in ** Men and Women." Shortly afterwards she joined the Salis- bury Stock Company at the Davidson Theatre in Milwaukee, where she played for a year uninterruptedly. Last summer she was a member of the stock company at Elitch's Gardens in Den- ver, and it was immediately after the close of her engagement there that she joined the Arizona Company at the Grand Opera House, Chicago. Among the characters that she impersonated most worthily were Carey, in ''Alabama;" Bess Van Buren, in " The Charity Ball;" Meg, in " Lady Bountiful;" " Hazel Kirke," "Fanchon," Lavender, in "Sweet Lavender;" Kitty Ives, in " The Wife;" Louise, in " The Two Orphans;" Jennie, in " Shen- andoah;" and Susan, in "Held by the Enemy." During the present New York season. Miss Robson has achieved three notable triumphs. As Bonita Canby, in "Ari- zona," at the Herald Square Theatre, this young actress was at once discovered to be a player of rare distinction and charm. A little later, with Otis Skinner and Mrs. LeMoyne, she appeared as Constance, in Robert Browning's " In a Balcony," at Wallack's Theatre. But it was as Flossie Williams, in ' ' Unleavened Bread, ' ' a role totally unlike the other two characters, that Miss Robson achieved her greatest hit. Her portrayal of the frivolous social struggler marked her as a most accomplished actress, or, as one critic wrote : " Miss Robson ought to become one of the glories of the American stage." 70 Photo by Rose & Sands, Providence. ELEANOR ROBSON. LOUIS MANN. Louis Mann, who plays the leadin