HAWTREY COMEDY COMPANY.

Gisborne Times, Volume X, Issue 1003, 23 September 1903, Page 3

HAWTREY COMEDY COMPANY.

“THE LADY OF OSTEND.” At the Theatre Royal last evening, another crowded house greeted the Hawtrey Company’s second production, “The Lady of Ostend,” a mirthful comedy by the famous Mr W. F. Burnand. The piece was magnificently mounted -on a scale perhaps hitherto unequalled in Gisborne—and in the hands of this strong combination was given an excellent interpretation. From start to finish, the dialogue is full of clever witticisms, and anyone having the slightest love of humor cannot fail to appreciate it. Mr William F. Hawtrey added to his laurels by his clever impersonation of Baron do Longueville, “ a man with a rattling past,” his French accent being exceedingly realistic. As Dick Whortles (the “Jonah” or “.No. 9”), Mr Gregan McMahon proved himself an actor of high merit, sustaining the character in a manner that won for him the warmest approbation of the audience. In the character of Joseph Carbury (who has a weakness for a night out with his invisible friend, “ Noakes, of Newcastle”), Mr Oily Deering certainly made a decided hit, and left a most favorable impression on the appreciative audience, who readily recognised his abilities as a comedian of a high order. Mr D. P. Heggie, as Toby Orockett (“ The Gripper”), made the most of every point, as also did Mr G. Elton as Thompson, whilst Mr Leonard Stanley, as John Humbert, appeared to great advantage. Miss Elsie Austin gave a charming interpretation of Dorothy Whortles, and won the golden opinions of all present by her clever acting. Miss Emma Bronton, as Matilda Carbury, played with great success, her stage appearance calling forth the admiration of the audience. Miss Winifred Austin, as Millie Grace, gave a pleasing pouf tray al of the part, her prepossessing manner and winning ways making her a general favorite. Miss May Bancroft, as Mrs Crockett, “ The Lady of Ostend,” acted in an exceedingly clever manner, and was generally admired for her vivacity and unique demeanour. Miss Maud Torrence, as Jane, “the maid of all work,” made the most of her part. The Company fully justify the reputation that preceded them, and those of our readers who have not seen them are recommended to take advantage of the last opportunity afforded this evening, when the season closes with “ Tom, Dick, and Harry.”