“The King of Laughter.”

Manawatu Herald, 7 March 1903, Page 2

“The King of Laughter.”

Mr Val Vousden the “King of Laughter,” will open for one night only at the Public Hail, Foxton, on Thursday next March istb, in his entertainment of world-wide fame entitled “ Two hours of hearty laughter.” The Auckland Observer speaking of Mr Voasden’s entertainment in that city says The two hours’ entertainment supplied by Val Vousden last evening was ot a really enjoyable character, and those who went for the purpose of indulging in a hearty laugh and driving dull care away had their wants fully satisfied. The entatainer showed to great advantage in the famous recitation “ Shamus O’Brien." The natural brogue and the dramatic ability shown by Val Vousden made the item an acceptable one, and while the audience did not appreciate the dramatic efforts to the full they listened attentively while they were being rendered. Without doubt the ventriloquial efforts were the feature of the entertainment, and it is safe to say that Val Vousden has no rival this side of the line in the class of subjects which be has taken in hand. The scene with, the Scotch terrier dog was a masterly effort, while the imitation of the galloping horse, from the faint clattering in the distance until it thundered across the stage and on into the distance, brought forth rounds of applause. Val Vousdon’s other representations were also good, and the very distinct voices which he was able to produce made the characters all the more interesting. Mrs O'Rorke a character of his own creation, fairly convulsed the audience. Those present caught the contagion of her hysterical laughter, and with every fresh outburst joined in most heartily. The Dublin society lady we are safe in say is by no means identical with those existing in this twntiy, and no doubt

was overdrawn, but the absurdity o the sketch was apparent. Vat Vousden fulfilled his pledge, and was able to get through his programme without recourse to vulgarity, which made the entertainment all the more enjoyable. The entertainment generally was firstclass, and will no doubt command good support throughout the colony.