Concert Party – Bognor Regis Observer – Wednesday, 22 August 1923

"Twentieth Century Minstrels." Something decidedly new in concert party is providing this week's attraction at the Pavilion, namely the "Twentieth Century Minstrels." It is a great many years since the "Burnt Cork" show held the masses, and In those dear old days "Moore and Burgess" and the "Christy Minstrels," etc., were names to conjure with. Their names have lived, as their old-time songs and melodies have lived, still loved by the present generation for the sweet simplicity of their haunting melodies. The Twentieth Century Minstrels not only invite comparisons, but justify them, for they do not hesitate to sing several of these old-time songs. Great care and thought has been given by Mr. Henry Benet (who presents the Company), to the vocal side of the performance, for we notice such names as Frank Ivall, a young performer of exceptional ability, who, at the age of 23 still retains the sweet treble voice of his boyhood ; Henry Garside, an operatic tenor ; Owen Stirling possessing some remarkable low notes etc. The comedy of the "corner men" is carried though the show in a screaming manner by George James, a very happy soul; Teddy Lacey, comedian and dancer; Will Robb, concertina comedian; and Robby Vincent, the great little dancer, who does some most remarkable things with his feet. Teddy Lacey and George James also introduce their screamingly funny duologues and these cross-talk acts make a sure cure for any of that "fed up" feeling.