Eighth Avenue Opera House

THE EIGHTH AVENUE OPERA HOUSE opened on the 20th inst. under the management of Josh. Hart and Frank Kerns. The hall was densely crowded and hundreds turned away unable to get admittance, notwithstanding the night was a stormy one. The company—comprising Josh Hart, Frank Kerns, Dick Ralph, Bob Smith, Geo. Cassidy, Geo. Warren, ‘The Broadway Boys,’ Laura Le Claire, Helen Smith, Emma Gardner, Florence Wells, Miss Natalie, and Viro Farrand—made a favorable impression, and nearly every act was encored.”

“THE EIGHTH AVENUE OPERA HOUSE, under the management of Josh Hart and Frank Kerns, which was recently opened to the public as a variety show, thus far has proved a big success. Monday, July 22nd, was but a repetition of the success of the opening night. We popped in one evening during the week and found that the seats, formerly on a level, had been raised at a gradual elevation from the stage, so that all can now see at their ease and comfort. We gave a list of the company last week. The Ethiopian members of this combination are all good. Frank Kerns, one of the proprietors, a team in himself, has carried his friends from down town up, and his specialties met with a treble encore, as also did Dick Ralph, whose rendering of ‘George the Charmer,’ with big shoe accompaniment, the Essence, etc., brought down the house every time. George Warren’s banjo solos and singing are very good, and the tambourine solo of Bob Smith came near raising the roof. Those who have seen the Broadway Boys know what they can do, while those who have not should go by all means and judge for themselves. These are ably assisted by Fred Boniface, Gus West and George Cassedy. Josh Hart’s versatility as a comedian and vocalist is well known, and he knows what is likely to please. The ladies, who should have been mentioned first, are all solo performers, and by a wise course the management gives all an opportunity to distinguish themselves. The grace and beauty of the Misses Emma Gardner, Helene Smith and Florence Wells in the terpsichorean art are the theme of general remark, while the Irish song and jig of Miss Laura LeClaire are full of exuberant humor. Miss Viro Farrano, whose well modeled limbs it would be hard to excel, created a good impression in her singing and jig dancing. The orchestra, too, led by Dave Braham, is evenly balanced and performs well. About twenty-five separate acts were given, the Prize Fight burlesque, introducing a set-to between Frank Kerns and George Warren, being a screamer. There is an entire change of programme twice a week, and novelties are continually introduced. This week Tim Hayes, the clog dancer, commences an engagement. For the especial benefit of ladies and children a matinée is given every Saturday afternoon.”