Every youngster and thousands of grown-ups in San Francisco are familiar with the operations of "Our Gang," that aggregation of clever tots who have made millions laugh by their antics on the screen. "Our Gang" arrived "in person" Saturday (the 2nd) and form the feature of the Orpheum program this week.
Considering the size of the tiny youngsters, little was expected of them more than an appearance, but in this regard there is a surprise. The members of the gang "do their stuff" the same as any old-timer of the vaudeville stage.
They make mistakes and get their lines mixed but this does not hurt their show. It enhances the enjoyment of their act. They seem more real, more like children, and their errors bring them closer to the audience, particularly as the youngsters demonstrate they are typical children and giggle at the "breaks" of their comrades.
All seven of the famous members of the gang are there. Led by Harry Spear, who acts as master of ceremonies and introduces the company. Jay R. Smith, with all his freckles, and Jackie Condon, the mischief maker, come rushing up the aisle. Then the lovable Jean Darling, the "leading lady," trots by followed by Joe Cobb, the fat boy, who cannot run.
A cry is heard in the rear of the house and then comes Farina, the dusky member of the troupe, leading her little sister, Mango.
Each child contributes something. They either recite or dance. Farina catches the crowds by the manner she uses her eyes. As a finale, they give their own version of "Uncle Tom' Cabin," the last scene being used to demonstrate the emotional capacity of the children.