but at nine years, Chaplin became interested in the theatre. He credited his mother, later writing, "[she] imbued me with the feeling that I had some sort of talent."[27] Through his father's connections, Chaplin became a member of the Eight Lancashire Lads clog-dancing troupe.[28] He began his professional career in this way, as he toured English music halls with the group throughout 1899 and 1900.[note 5] Chaplin worked hard and the act was popular with audiences, but dancing did not satisfy the child and he dreamt of forming a comedy act.[30]
"What had happened? It seemed the world had suddenly changed, had taken me into its fond embrace and adopted me."[31]
—Chaplin reflecting on his change in fortunes
By age 13 Chaplin had fully abandoned education.[32][note 6] He supported himself with a range of jobs, but said he, "never lost sight" of his "ultimate aim to become an actor."[34] At 14, shortly after his mother's relapse, he registered with a theatrical agency in London's West End. The manager sensed potential in Chaplin and he was soon on the stage.[35] His first role was a newsboy in H. A. Saintsbury's Jim, a Romance of Cockayne. It opened in July 1903 in Kingston upon Thames, but the show was unsuccessful and it closed after two weeks. Chaplin's comic performance, however, was singled out for praise in many of the reviews.[36] From October 1903 to June 1904, Chaplin toured with Saintsbury in "legendary impresario" Charles Frohman's production of Sherlock Holmes.[37] He repeated his performance of Billy the pageboy for two subsequent tours,[38] and was so successful that he was called to London to play the role alongside William Gillette, the original Holmes.[note 7] "It was like tidings from heaven," Chaplin recalled.[40] At 16-years-old, Chaplin starred in the West End production at the Duke of York's Theatre from 17 October to 2 December 1905.[41] He completed one final tour of Sherlock Holmes in early 1906, eventually leaving the play after more than two and a half years.[42]