Ryde Social Heritage Group research the social history of the citizens of Ryde, Isle of Wight. Documenting their lives, businesses and burial transcriptions.
RYDE SOCIAL HERITAGE GROUP
Based at Ryde Cemetery Heritage & Learning Centre. Preserving, documenting and promoting the social history of Ryde on the Isle of Wight.
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Intriguing Entertainment 1904

The Scarlett Mr. E's

THE SCARLET MR. E’s
of Southampton

27 August 1904
As will be seen by the advertisements elsewhere, these well-known entertainers are coming to the Ryde Pier Pavilion, on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday next.  So far as we know, no one has yet penetrated the disguise of these mysterious musicians, but that they are people of no ordinary musical ability, all who hear them admit.

Indeed, it is said that the tenor of the party has sung at concerts with Madame Clara Butt and other great artistes, while the basso has often sung at Covent Gardens, and once appeared by special command, before Her Majesty Queen Victoria, who showed her appreciation of his performance by the gift of a costly scarf pin.

The genial jester, is indispensable, but about him there is no mystery; he is Mr. Harold Montague, the writer and composer of some very humorous songs.

The Mr. E’s, amongst other places, have been this year to Eastbourne, where they have been extremely popular and successful.

Note:
This intriguing troupe of musicians and entertainers, shrouded in mystery.  Each member, a master of their craft, contributed to the unique symphony of talents that defined their act.  Pianists, singers, and instrumentalists, all concealed behind captivating masks, created an aura of intrigue that drew crowds in droves.

Sources: IW Observer & Courtesy of Ian Crump, Southern Daily Echo
Image: Southern Daily Echo
Article: Ann Barrett