JOHN F. SHERIDAN’S MUSICAL COMEDY COMPANY.

Gisborne Times, Volume XIX, Issue 1695, 12 March 1906, Page 3

JOHN F. SHERIDAN’S MUSICAL COMEDY COMPANY.

< the earl AND THE GIRL.” , inn This is the brightest, most sparkling, and attractive programme of its kind that Mr J. F. Sheridan has yet presented to his patrons. He brings with him on this occasion a very powerful musical {comedy company that is given admirable scope in the crisp drolleriesy-pretty solos, taking choruses, and effective ballets with which “The Earl and the Girl ” abounds. It possesses considerably more merit than most of the mueical comedies which have been placed before theatregoers of recent times, for there is a distinct theme, humorous to a degree, that can be recognised from the mass of “ inci* dentals ” interwoven, and it can be recommended as a thoroughly healthy, laughter-raising performance of a nature well calculated to please the tastes of those who love bright music, wedded to witty story aud brilliant dressing and scenic effects. In Jim Cheeze, around whom centres most of the fun, and impersonated by Mr Sheridan, one scarcely recognises the Widdy O’Brien, a character in which he so amused theatregoers years ago. Ihe talented comedian this time .is cast in

a part very different to that of the hilarious widow. Versatility is his forte, and in the new role he finds ample opportunity for practising his -‘—'art with excellent advantage. He is a strange customer, this Jim Cheeze, who promises to secure as much popularity for the comedian as did his earlier successful effort in “ Fun on the Bristol-”. He has surrounded himself with a host of clever performers, who give him adequate assistance in the many mirth-provoking situations of the piece. Miss Heba Barlow has a rare gift for low comedy, which she gives full play as Liza Shodham, a part in thorough keeping with the eccentricities of those of Jim Cheeze Jjer sweetheart,