Mr. Dove’s first stage appearance was with the original Bootblack Quartette, in 1896; the following year with James Corrigan he did a black-face act, which qualified him to become a member of Hi Henry’s Minstrels, where he remained six years. Lew Dockstader’s Minstrels was the next big show, and though Mr. Dove was surrounded by a galaxy of stars, his own light was none the less resplendent. His next engagement was a white-face affair with the Imperial Burlesquers, where he met with unqualified success; his own act “The Dancing Burglar”; it has a story, and here it is——
ACT I.
“As a boy, Master Dove in response to queries as to his future ideas in life, gravely told his Father he would be a dancer or a burglar.
Act II.
In a dancing contest, one night young Dove “flew the coop” and hiked away to the town hall while the family were in dreamland; Johnny won the coveted prize, a silver set of 24 pieces; sneaked home, and placed his winnings on the table; thence to bed.
ACT III.
Next morning, Dove Sr., being the first to arise, sees the new addition to the family plate, hastily, concludes that John had decided on the profession of burglar.
CURTAIN.
Johnny Dove was born in New Brunswick, N. J., April 15, 1879, and is at present with Al. G. Field’s Minstrels.
Eddie Cassady, a great Philadelphia favorite, is one of the most pleasing of present-day comedians. His first professional appearance was with Simmons and Slocum’s Minstrels in 1893.