Kelly and Leon’s Minstrels

Partly a review of final performances of the previous week’s burlesque, “Barber Blu.” “…‘Barber Blu’ gives place to ‘The Grand Dutch S,’ which will, commencing on Monday, be performed for a limited number of nights. This burlesque on a burlesque was run last season for upwards of two hundred nights, and there is little doubt, with the new scenery, new dresses and new music promised, if other engagements permitted, it would attract full houses for the whole of the present season. It, however, like other successes at this place (and ‘Barber Blu’ may be mentioned as among the most attractive, must give place to a very elaborate paraphrase of the grand opera of ‘Zampa,’ which is to be put on the stage in a style equal in costume, scenery, music, situations, &c., to the original. On this promised piece $15,000 have already been paid out and there is room for the expenditure of a few more thousands before it is pronounced perfect and ready for the stage.”

“The revival, by Kelly & Leon’s Minstrels, of the Ethiopian Burlesque of ‘The Grand Dutch S,’ which proved so great a success last season, is a timely stroke of wise managerial policy. The melodious war of Bateman and Grau, on the battle-field of Opera Bouffe, has aroused redoubled interest in this description of fun; and the public seems well disposed to laugh over the contest. Their merriment is largely stimulated by the ‘Grand Dutch S,’ wherein the clever and facetious Leon gives free vein to his jovial humor, and carries his audiences on a silver tide of mirth. Every programme presented here this season has been a success, and the admirers of negro minstrely may depend upon the energy and good taste of the management to keep the current running in this direction. Messrs. Kelly & Leon have lately fitted up their Hall anew, and it is now more than ever handsome and cheerful.”

“In the Olio the Clark Brothers—who joined the company two weeks ago—appeared in a sentimental song and dance, and were encored two or three times each evening. They are from their great height called the Giant Cloggists; their appearance is enough to create laughter, in addition to which they are very clever performers, and have been well received each evening.”