A Parlor Match is an American musical play which debuted in 1884 and was one of the biggest hits of its time.
[1] Charles H. Hoyt authored the play, adapting Evans' and Hoey's vaudeville piece "The Book Agent" (which came from an afterpiece by Frank Dumont) into a full-length play.
The scant plot involved two hustlers who convince Captain William Kidd that he is actually a medium, serving as a vehicle for interpolated songs and dances, which would vary over time as the play traveled, and aged.
In the 1892-93 season of its run, the English music hall song "The Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo" was added to great success.
[3] Ziegfeld's actress Anna Held debuted in an 1896 revival at the Herald Square Theatre, which also featured Evans and Hoey returning to their original roles.