CHUCKLES WITH JERRY

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 11, Issue 16, 14 April 1947, Page 5

CHUCKLES WITH JERRY

RADIO PERSONALITY VISITS WHAKATANE On Friday night Whakatane residents were given the opportunity of seeing the famous radio personalities, Jerry Jaxon and George Tollerton, supported by a versatile and talented cast of artists, in person. The performance was one in a farewell tour-of New Zealand by Jerry and George Tollerton before leaving for America. A large number of residents availed themselves of the opportunity as the theatre was packed.

An idea of the popularity of these performers may be gained from the opening paragraphs of the souvenir programe:—

"Jerry has now been on the air six years! By luck and good fortune he seems to have captured the hearts of the New Zealand public,' and has, in truth, become a figure of National importance "It is now my turn to say "Thanks a lot" to those thousands of people who came along in all weathers and made our recordings possible. Their warm-hearted laughter and applause meant much towards the success of the Session."

The Programme

The programme was for the most part humorous. There were dances and musical items as well, all of which added the touch of variety which contributed to the success of the performance. Besides appearing with Jerry, Tollerton amused the crowd with wisecracks, conjuring acts and card tricks. Two children were called from the audience and provided some laughs while assisting with the card tricks. Each was presented with a free copy of Jerry's latest book of jokes. Supporting Cast

Alice Bennetto, possessor of a fine soprano voice, showed that she was also a talented comedienne. Several of her songs, sung in a broad cockney accent, drew hearty applause from the audience.

Lynor Upton, who replaced Colleen Tonge in the dancing items, was particularly well received. Elton Black, Scotch comedian, proved very popular also. When he and Jerry gave a duet "Little Sir Echo," each trying to outdo the other, the crowd was kept in fits of laughter. J. Carlton, pianist to the company, gave an exhibition of blindfold playing, and also played with a cloth stretched acros the keys. Carlton played modern numbers with the same skill as he handled the more classical pieces. All the children present were given a photograph of Jerry, "New Zealand's Prime Minister of Fun," at the conclusion of the performance. -