(Reprinted from yesterday's late edition.)

  Nearly 20 years intervening since "Topsy and Eva" was first produced seem not to have dimmed the luster of the music show derived from "Uncle Tom's Cabin" with the Duncan Sisters. Certainly, this appeared the prevailing opinion at the Music Box Theater, where a refurbished revival of the hit of the '20's had its first presentation.

  The audience was large and responsive, even though a number of them had probably witnessed at various previous times the antics and clowning of Rosetta as Topsy, with Vivian smilingly her aide as Eva.

FAMILIAR TUNES

  "Topsy and Eva" has been elaborated in ensemble, song numbers, and some other incidentals. But it still offers "Rememb'ring" as its piece de resistance—if you want to become fancy about it—"Do Re Me," "I Never Had a Mammy," "When It's Onion Time in Sweet Bermuda" and other popular excursions vocally of the Duncans and their cohorts.

  "Rememb'ring," when reprised by the two stars at the end of the second act, got a round of applause even before it started, just as the Duncans were given a hand when their voices were heard off stage in the opening act.

  So if the initial audience is any criterion it is easy to guess what the temper of the public will be toward this offering. It comes in the class of an old friend. And it's likely the newer generation will find it palatable as well.

PLAYS TO AUDIENCE

  Personally, I would have liked to see this stage piece assume a more modern complexion on its rebirth. I suppose the wisecracks that Rosetta interjects in impromptu fashion will take care of that to an extent. She is smart as always in playing to the audience and keeping them laughing when they start laughing.

  The perpetual emphasis of laughter on the stage when Topsy is monkeyshining does, however, seem dated. I suppose, though, that the Duncans know what clicks with their followers. They've proved that the recipe works for a good many years, and their "Topsy and Eva" spells release entertainment with capital letters.

  They have really amplified the show—which ran three hours last night—in various departments, and the final act is a revel of song and dance, with patriotic introduction. In this opening, "Land of the Free," and her earlier Bird Dance, Sherry Cameron was a bright particular hit.

  The dancing chorus also added a spirited note to the closing scene, while Cas Twid performed brilliantly with his stepping. He danced also with Patricia Knox, cast as Eliza.

  The Guardsmen Quartet assisted with harmony, and offered Negro melodies. Songs like "Locked in the Cradle of My Heart," "Sing Me to Sleep With a Love Song," "Moon Am Shinin'" all had a engaging complexion. Some programmed selections were omitted and the production still needs condensing.