The Lloyd-Morgan Concert Party
Mr. R. Lloyd Morgan was no stranger to the Isle of Wight, having played a lead role of the hero, in “The Queen of Hearts” at the Theatre in April 1902, when he rendered several songs in pleasing baritone. A musical comedy and drama of the old style, condensed in order to give several comedians an opportunity of introducing some very funny business. The whole performance was given excellent reviews.
In May 1905 a notice in the local press stated: We understand that the Ryde Pier Company has engaged Mr. R. Lloyd Morgan’s Entertainers (who appeared with great success at Bournemouth the last two seasons) to perform on the Pier every morning from 11 to 1, commencing the 3rd of July.
At the beginning of July it also announced that the Ryde Pier Pavilion, that summer, would be occupied by the talented company under Mr. Lloyd Morgan. They were deemed to be worthy successors to the popular Nondescripts, who had hitherto been the attraction at the Pavilion during the summer months previously.
Also in July, Lloyd Morgan’s troupe of vocalists and instrumentalists were engaged as the additional musical entertainment at the annual garden party and fete arranged by the Ryde Habitation of the Primrose League in the beautiful grounds of Holmwood, Haylands, at the kind invitation of the Rev. J. Farmer. Unfortunately, the weather was not all that could have been desired. Nevertheless there was a very large number present. Dancing took place on the lawn, and was continued with much zest by some hundreds of people till late in the evening.
During the months of July, August and September, the advert carried in the newspapers stated that Mr. R. Lloyd Morgan’s Concert Entertainers would be performing in the Pier Pavilion at 8 on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and every morning on the Pier 11 to 1. Prices were 1s. and 6d.
On the 12th August, Mr. Lloyd Morgan’s concert party gave a concert on the lawn at the Seaview Hotel on Monday evening. The front of the hotel was very prettily decorated with flowers and coloured electric lamps.
Sources: IW Observer & RSHG Archive
Image: Courtesy of Tony Gale
Article: Ann Barrett