WILLIAMSON’S COMIC OPERA CO.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXII, Issue 1762, 31 May 1906, Page 3

WILLIAMSON’S COMIC OPERA CO.

A company of brilliant operatic artists, plays that are world-renowned, scenery and effects unsurpassed for their completeness in every detail, and a full and efficient orchestra are features of Mr J. C. Williamson’s Comic Opera Company, who are to appear here on Monday next for a season of three nights only. The opening production is Messrs Gilbert and Sullivan’s world-famed and romantic comic opera, “ The Gondoliers.” Musically it is a delightful feast, songs and numbers that are gems of the finest sparkle, accompanied by briliant dialogue and crisp lyric. “ The Gondoliers ” is happily put together and shows this talented company at their best. The ideal romantic opera “Princess Ida,” will be the second production by the . company, and will doubtless revive many pleasant memories in the hearts of playgoers and music lovers of Gisborne. The final production is the last work by Messrs Gilbert and Sullivao, entitled, “Utopia Ltd.,” or “The Flowers of Progress.” Recently produced in Melbourne, Wellington and Auckland, and has proved to be an emphatic success. The opening performance was a distinct and demonstratively declared triumph, unparalleled amongst famous premieres since the memorable first production of “The Gondoliers” in 1893. “ Utopia Ltd.” is the same delightful mix up of happy thoughts, happily expressed alike in song and story. These three productions will be staged with Mr Williamson’s usual sumptuous and lavish manner and supported by a company of 80 artists, among whom are the following wellknown favorites : Messrs Chas. Kenningham, Howard Vernon, H. H. Wallace, Frank Wilson, A. Crane, Walter Whyte, Ernest Fitts, and Misses Dolly Castles, Celia. Ghiloni, Aggio Thorn, Vinia de Loitte, and Ruby Arnfield. The whole productions are staged under the direction of Mr Henry Bracy, and a full and capable orchestra is under the baton of Mr Geo. Hall. Mr Williamson’s company appear here for three nights only, and judging .by the bookings large business is anticipated. Theatregoers are advised to secure their seats early. “ RADIUM BALLET.”

Always up-to-date Mr Williamson this season presents to us the much-talked-of and sensational “Badium Ballet.” The whole theatre is thrown into inky darkness. Then there appear upon the stage five phosphorescent shapes costumed as Pierrots, which gyrate in a quaint skipping rope dance to weird music. The dance is nightly encored and proves an eDjoyablo innovation.