Evening Republican, Volume 15, Number 153, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 29 June 1911 — “Dear Old Billy” Opening Attraction at the Whitney. [ARTICLE]

“Dear Old Billy” Opening Attraction at the Whitney.

The Whitney opera house, thoroughly cleaned and renovated reopened last week with an attraction which is generally conceded to be the most pleasing entertainment ever offered at this popular play house. Notwithstanding the very inclement weather of the opening night the theatre was crowded to the doors with a representative audience which tumultously laughed and applauded throughout the entire three acts of “Dear Old Billy,” a clean, wholesome farce, which was presented for the first time in Chicago. The production is made by A. J. Delamater and was staged by Edward Eisner, for several years producer of the numerous Froham successes. Mr. William Hawtrey, the eminent English actor, who is better known in Europe than America, but who has also successfully starred in this country under the management of Mr. Charles Froham, was seen in title and stellar role.

The critics are unanimous in their praise of Mr. Hawtrey and his entire supporting company, which includes among other prominent players, Muriel Starr, who recently closed an engagement at Powers theatre as leading woman with Wilton Lackaye; Richie Lihg, formerly leading min with Viola Allen; Geo. Stewart Christie, last season leading man with Madam Nazimova; Harry Redding, last season leading juvenile with William Faversham; E. H. Kelly, formerly with Forbes Robertson and Sir Henry Irving; Frank Shannon, formerly with William Gillette; Laura Clement, for the past three seasons with Billie Burk; Jane Burby, for several seasons leading support with May Irwin; Esther Bissett, England’s most beautiful actress; Cassie Jamason, and other artists of equal reputation and ability. Special rates to out-of town parties.