The City Clamps Down on Variety Theaters

For several days, the proprietors of variety theaters have been expecting that the city authorities would take action under ordinance No. 4,375. Last night, the anticipated action was taken. The ordinance in question prohibits music and singing in any place or adjoining any place where liquor is sold. Warrants were sworn out for several proprietors of the variety theaters and concert halls. Charles Peterson, proprietor of the New Zealand variety theater, on South Third Street between Washington and Jackson, was taken in by Sergt. Willard and Officer Bryant. Frank Clancy and James Monroe, of Clancy & Monroe's 'free-and-easy,' corner of South Third and Washington, were arrested by Sam Corbett. Frank Linguist, proprietor of the Mint concert hall, No. 215 Washington street, was arrested by Officer Philbrick. John Considine, proprietor of the People's theater, corner of South Third and Washington, was taken into custody by Sergt. Templeton. Each of the arrested men put up $10 in cash and were released. The performers in the People's variety theater, after the arrest of the proprietor, continued to sing, contrary to the orders of Chief Rogers, and he ordered the singers arrested. Edward Cley and Walter Meekin were accordingly taken into custody by Sergt. Templeton. This put a stop to the singing, but did not by any means end the performance, which was continued; but instead of songs, the audience was amused with recitations and gags and other 'turns.' The audience seemed to enjoy the change.