Theatre.
--A large number of persons, including many ladies, witnessed the performance of
Mrs. Bateman's comedy of "Self," on Monday night, and that the play gave general satisfaction to the audience was evidenced by frequent manifestations of approval.
The character of "Mary Apex," a generous, self-sacrificing young lady, was well sustained by
Miss Bateman, although there is nothing in the part that gives full scope to her dramatic powers.
She rendered it in a pleasing manner; and properly avoided "over-acting," which in too many instances destroys the identity of gentleness, where that should be the predominant quality.
Mrs. Phillips had a more difficult task in the rendition of "
Mrs. Apex," and it is only necessary to say that she fully sustained her excellent reputation.
Mrs. DeBar kept the audience in constant good humor by her unique disquisitions on the ills which flesh is heir to, and the various patent panaceas heralded by quack advertisements in the newspapers.
With regard to the part of "John Unit" we had felt some anxiety, having previously seen it played by
John Owens, who has few equals in this line of comedy; but
Mr. Bateman took hold of it with a will, and carried it through successfully.
Mr. Moxley, as Aunt Chloe, was really good.
Indeed, the whole play was well performed, and we feel at liberty to commend it to the favorable attention of the public.
Among the various introductions for stage effect, we may notice particularly the cages of singing birds, who poured forth musical notes
ad libitum throughout the scene.
The interior of a fashionable dry goods store, in the first act, was also handsomely arranged.
The play will be repeated to-night.
