Evening Republican, Volume 21, Number 53, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 12 March 1918 — WILLET HILL MAKING GOOD WITH THEATRICAL COMPANY [ARTICLE]

WILLET HILL MAKING GOOD WITH THEATRICAL COMPANY

Willet A. Hill, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hill of this city, who went to Butler, Pa., a short time ago to join the Nixon theatrical company, writes The Republican as follows: Butler, Pa. March 8, 1918. I began work last night and with a very difficult part, but I am told I handled it well which makes me feel happy. Next week I have two good parts in “The Lion and th’e Mouse” and “Ready Money.” The company is a very good one and carries its own stage crew and scenic artist. The latter is wonderfully clever and each play is like a production. The company numbers fourteen people and have played here since Christmas to capacity houses and will remain for six more weeks. Following this we have two months to fill in before going to Vallament Park, Williamsport, Pa., for the remainder of the summer.

Mr. Wallace never closes his season and has gained such a reputation that nearly all his engagements are guarantees. So you can see I not only had the company manager* to please, but the theatre manager as well. People in the east look upon the profession much differently than they do back home. Was handed my first jolt recently when a minister and his wife called oh me in my dressing room and invited me to church. Later I learned that most of the company attended regularly. Everyone knew everyone else and we were invited many places. I am at home here, and while I long to look down Washington street for a minute I know it is impossible, but I think more of it than ever before. Yours respectfully, WILLET A. HILL.