The Dollop with Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds

694 - John Considine - Live

Jul 29, 2025
Dive into the quirky world of John Considine, a Seattle theater icon with a colorful past as both a cop and a comedian. The hosts humorously unearth the bizarre performances of late 19th-century theater, filled with questionable acts and absurd storylines. From a ghost’s peanut dilemma to the chaotic game of Bunko, laughter reigns supreme. Explore the fierce vaudeville rivalry between theater moguls and the absurdities of the entertainment industry. Expect witty anecdotes and a playful reflection on urban decay along the way!
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ANECDOTE

John Considine's Early Life

  • John Considine was a large, religious, teetotaling man who moved from Chicago to Seattle in 1889 due to his acting career.
  • He was a good talker and showman rather than a conventional actor, which helped in his theatrical ventures.
INSIGHT

Early Seattle Theater Chaos

  • Early Seattle theater was rough with mixed-quality performances and chaotic shows.
  • Notable incidents included a child refusing to follow scripted death and chaotic animal-involved productions.
ANECDOTE

Box Houses and Considine's Innovation

  • Box houses in Seattle were combined theaters and saloons with women performing and then soliciting clients in private boxes.
  • John Considine innovated by hiring professional actresses for performances while still offering women for sale in the boxes, boosting business.
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