SOTONIANS seeking a brief respite from the doom and gloom of wartime were flocking to the Palace Theatre in their droves 100 years ago this month where a new American burlesque entitled Partners, starring Nat Carr and JW Jackson, was the chief feature.

And, according to Daily Echo reports of the time, was most favourably received by the crowded houses that had filled the theatre during the opening night’s performances.

The production was described as being a “bright and merry one”, with the plot being unfolded in four scenes, the majority of which were of a very charming, as well as artistic, character, owing to the vibrant colours of the costumes and attractive ladies.

In addition the piece had most mirth-provoking qualities, while lively music and captivating dancing added to the production’s attractiveness, the latter being gracefully presented by the eight Grecian Maids, as well as others, in pleasing fashion.

Daily Echo:

Natt Carr, (pictured above) who played the principal role of a partner in a variety theatre, was admired by the Southampton audiences as this remarkably clever American comedian possessed the wonderful gift of provoking laughter by various irresistible methods, while singing songs that went with a swing.

Daily Echo: The Palace Theatre poster for the production of Partners which played at the theatre in July 1915 

Another feature of interest in the town this week attracted large numbers of townsfolk to Southampton Pier for a demonstration of Mr W Portsmouth’s new lifebelt invention.

The novelty is that the lifebelt was worn in a similar way to ordinary corsets, but with two simple movements the device could be inflated.

It was claimed to be “impossible for the wearer to sink”, and while “useful to a non-swimmer who was learning the art of floatation, it in no way impedes the movements of the practical swimmer.”

The demonstration was by baths manager Mr W Bridgen. These Southampton Pictorial photo from 1915 show Mr Bridgen and Mr Portsmouth posing for a photo before Mr Bridgen takes to the water to test the lifebelt. The final image ishows Mr Portsmouth, the inventor, pictured fully clothed and on dry land wearing his new lifebelt.