MR J. C. WILLIAMSON’S OPERA SEASON.

Gisborne Times, Volume XVIII, Issue 1447, 6 May 1905, Page 3

MR J. C. WILLIAMSON’S OPERA SEASON.

-*■ MIKADO.”- ” YEOMAN OP TUB GUARD,” “ PATIENCE.” On no previous occasion possibly has deeper interest been manifested locally in theatrieal attractions as in tho forthcoming visit of Mr J. O. Williamson’s famous Gilbert and Sullivan Bopertoiro Opera Company, and it is safe to say that the opening noxt Monday night is being awaited with most pleasurable anticipation. Tho enterprise displayed in sending to Gisborno so olaborate an organisation necessary for the adequate performances of such attractions as “ The Mikado.” “ The Yeoman of tho Guard,” aod

“ Patience,” is worthy of substantial recognition, and it would be a matter of groat regret if the heavy expense and great risk involved in the present venture which tho management have not hesitated to incur should meet with anything short of oommensurate reward. Upwards of 100 persons are engaged in the productions of “Mikado,” “Yeoman of the Guard,” and “ Patience,” ,-."i presentation of whioh at His Majesty’sTheatra on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday eveniDgs will, it is promised, bo marked with all the magnificence of scenery, costumes, properties and appointments generally of the phenomenally successful and universally, praised Wellington and Auckland spectacle. Everything required in connection with the productions is being brought from Auckland, over 800 tons of scenery being utilised.' The names oi the prin. cipal artists embraces an array of vocal talent and personal popularity that will eclipse anything with whioh thic city has in times past been favored. The season, whioh marks the return ;to the wittiest librettos ever produeed'by the playwright, and to the musical gaiety without noise, and humor without vulgarity, which characterises the operas of Gilbert and Sullivan, will begin with “ The Mikado,” which displays in a peculiar degree the characteristic excellences of this famous combination. Miss Dolly Castles, who takes the part of Yum Yum has met with most flattering enconiums from the Australian and New Zealand press and public in that role, and Mr Frank Wilson, the principal "baritone, who was specially brought out from London for this combination, also scores very heavily as the Mikado. One of the greatest hits of the piece is Mr Vernon’s return to his groat creation of former days as the Lord High Executioner, and the entire press speak with much enthusiasm of his'performance. Tho same remark applies to Miss Celia Ghiloni as Katisha, Mr John Balston, Mr Ernest Fitts, Miss Vinia D’Loitte, Mies Buby Arnfield and Miss Aggie Thom in their various parts. If intending patrons are anxious to avoid disappointment they may book their seats for the entire season at Mr Miller’s, where the plans are on view.