In spite of the tremendous counter attraction that the Chicago Civic Opera Company is to the Boston Victor Herbert Festival their production of Babes in Toyland" is of sufficient merit to warrant a continuance of the exceptionally good attendance they have received in the last few weeks. The music of Victor Herbert is well enough known to make a discussion of its qualities entirely superfluous, but for those who are refreshed by its light hearted rhythmic unes, these present revivals at the Majestic are proving more than adequate.

There is a naivete about "Babes in Toyland" which is sufficiently conscious O lend an atmosphere of sophistication smacking of the "Black Crook" era no doubt, but tremendously refreshing in a time when smartness lies chiefly in nudity and "frank" jokes. Moreover, the lyrics have much of the W. S. Gilbert playfulness that are original enough to make them thoroughly effective. It is particularly interesting to find the source of many of the clever modern witticisms in a production of the past.

Barry Lupino in the part of Gonzorgo, the hardhearted ruffian, is very good. He adds a zest and spirit that would put many modern revue comedians in a shadow. Nor is Mr. Lupino the single outstanding figure in the cast. All of the parts are exceptionally well handled, so well in fact that the patronizing attitude with which most revivals are received is entirely unnecessary here. The amous March of the Toys is one of the most satisfying ensemble pieces that has appeared in Boston in a long time. If one is in a whimsical, Alice in Wonder and mood and has a free evening, "Babes in Toyland" is an excellent place to indulge it.