Waverley Theatre

Cast list does not seem to entirely match that given by the advertisements in other papers. “A Season of Burlesque will be commenced at the Waverley Theatre on the 19th inst., under the direction of Edward Warden, when will be presented a new burlesque written by himself called ‘The Mooncharm; or, the Perils of Love.’ Mr. Warden has secured a good company, including Fanny Pierson, Emma Clifton, Anna Coraforth [sic], Hattie Biand, George Pardey, and others.”

“[W]ith a most powerful cast of characters and a full and efficient orchestra.”

No mention of music.

Positive review; no mention of music.

“…The burlesque is made up in the usual way, and is full of nonsensical rhymes, foolish dialogue and grotesque dances. The company were evidently somewhat confused last night and the piece did not run very freely. To give anything like an elaborate criticism of the performance under these circumstances would be unfair, as an opening production is always more or less open to faults and failings which can be rectified on succeeding nights.” Continues to discuss some of the cast and their roles.

“‘The Mooncharm’ is the title of an extravagant burlesque by Edward Warden presented at the Waverley Theatre on the 19th inst. It was taken from the story of ‘Endymion,’ and introduced to the New York public several new candidates for public favor. Prominent among these were Annie Cormforth, Emma Clifton, Virginia Vaughan, A. W. Sheldon, George Pardey and others. The only real artist among the females was Mrs. Claude Hamilton, to whom is due credit for acting as well as she did, surrounded as she was by so many novices, some of whom were very bad. This lady sang charmingly and the entire weight of the burlesque rested heavily on her shoulders. Annie Cormforth is a very pleasing little body, with an expressive face, a good stage presence and a good voice, but she does not appear to have much stage experience. However, she has the requisites for the making of a good [illeg; in italics]. Emma Clifton is quite a novice, appearing as if she had never before seen the footlights, or if she has, in some amateur association. Her articulation is very indistinct, talking as if through her nose. She does not know how to use her arms and she presents a very awkward appearance. She is possessed of a voice that with cultivation, will no doubt make her a very pleasing singer. Virginia Vaughan is another bad amateur, appearing to have had no former acquaintance with a public stage, and constantly laboring under a stage fright. When she sings she appears to be laboring considerably, and as if it was painful for her to do it. Mr. Sheldon had very little to do, but what he did was sufficient for any one to see that he must be a good eccentric comedian. George Pardey also did well, but of the rest of the cast the least said the better. Business was very bad throughout the week.”