Vesta Tilley (1864-1952)

"Cartouche and Co."
By Chance Newton.
Produced at Birmingham (theatre not specified).
Reviewed in The Colonies and India (UK) - 3rd September, 1892.

Among provincial productions that of Mr. Chance Newton's burlesque "Cartouche & Co., or the Ticket of (French) Leave" at Birmingham has attracted some attention. The plot, as is usual with pieces of this class, is attenuated almost to the vanishing point, but the songs, dances, and business were well received by the audience, many encores being given, and the scenery and dresses were specially bright and attractive.

Miss Vesta Tilley was the Cartouche, and, although this actress has only just recovered from a most serious illness, she went through her part with much spirit, and sang her songs capitally. She was well supported by Mr. Edward Lewis as Grilichon and Miss Madge Rockingham as Louise, while the dancing of Miss Violet Leslie and Mr. Edward Colman was specially effective. The piece was much too long on its first production, but alterations and excisions were at once made, so as to reduce it to more reasonable limits.