Arthur Jefferson's
Theatrical Benefit
BILL CROUCH reports
Mr Arthur Jefferson, the manager of the Metropole, was last evening given a complimentary benefit in his theatre. There was a fairly large audience, considering the excellent weather conditions which prevailed. The programme was an excellent one, all the “turns” proving thoroughly enjoyable. Artists appeared from every music hall in town. An amusing absurdity entitled “The Girl is Mine, Ha! Ha!” was an attractive item, perhaps more so because of the appearance of Mr Arthur Jefferson on his own stage for the first time in the humorous role of “Sammy Plum”, a part which he sustained in a most capable manner.
At the conclusion, Mr Jefferson, in a neat little speech, thanked those present for their attendance, and also the artists, employees, and workers who had worked so hard on his behalf. It was unfortunate, he said that the weather conditions were all against a crowded house, but the public could hardly be blamed, as it was really the best evening we had had since the season came in. Further, he said, that he would continue to serve the public in the best possible manner, and would do his utmost to keep up the traditions of the Metropole. (Applause.)
An interesting series of pictures on the bioscope concluded a most successful evening’s entertainment. The theatre re-opens for the season on Monday evening when “Lord Edward” or ’98’ will be staged.
Glasgow News June 29 1907
A short walk from the Metropole, at Pickard’s Museum in Trongate three Saturdays later, proprietor Albert Pickard was adding to his list of curiosities.
Pickard had an interest in freaks and curiosities and scanned newspapers for news of them.
His latest attraction was advertised as ‘Tom Thumb’. This was the circuit professional Harold Pyott, born in Stockport in 1887. He was often billed in pantomimes and circuses around the country as Tiny Tim.
Pickard had acquired the Britannia Music Hall in Trongate in 1906 and renamed it the Britannia and Grand Panopticon. It then became part of his amusement complex in combination with his adjacent museum and waxworks.